A group of more than 200 Haiku residents has filed a lawsuit against the County of Maui and a proposed workforce housing development in Pauwela and is claiming that the project has circumvented public review and violated state and county agriculture laws, their attorney said last week. Pauwela Homes, billed as a 100 percent workforce housing project, includes 33 single-family homes located mauka of Haiku Elementary School and the Haiku Community Center. The group, Na Hinano o Pauwela, and four neighbors are suing the county and developer Kauhikoa Land LLC. “They’ve essentially tried to thread this project through several loopholes, and the community has concerns about the impact it will have on the roads and traffic and safety,” Na Hinano’s attorney Lance Collins said Friday. Project Manager Dave Ward declined to speak directly about the lawsuit, but said he is confident that the project followed all county and state regulations. He added that he looks forward to “providing Maui’s working families with an opportunity for homeownership in Haiku.” “There’s a need for housing islandwide, and you see that in the rents across the island,” Ward said Friday. “Thirty-three homes isn’t going to solve our housing shortage, but it is a step in the right direction.” Kauhikoa Land has conducted an environmental site assessment of the land that was formerly used for growing pineapple, Ward said. He said soil sampling and testing uncovered no traces of two types of potentially hazardous chemicals used in pineapple production. An archaeological inventory survey compiled last year documented seven historic sites, but none were in the area of the development, Ward said. He added that a recent traffic study found no significant impact. “We believe that these new families that are moving into the neighborhood will have very similar concerns about traffic and speeding,” he said. “These homes are good for all types of folks, including young growing families. “It’s a great starter home, but you could live there your entire life.” The 19-acre housing project features three- and four-bedroom homes on 6,900- to 11,500-square-foot house lots. Each lot comes with a 5,000-square-foot farm plot for agricultural use. Each house, lot and farm plot are sold together and conveyed under condominium laws, where residents own their units and a share of the common area, as opposed to a subdivision development. The fee-simple homes are prioritized for income-qualified residents, who meet county workforce housing requirements, through a public lottery. The project is divided into three income brackets based on maximum gross annual household income. The $81,500 bracket has 10 units alloted; the $97,800 bracket has 17 units; and the $114,100 bracket has six units. For example, those making less than $81,500 may qualify for a three- or four-bedroom home with no garage. The maximum sales price for the cheapest to most expensive units are $449,200 to $723,235. Ward said that the project is not “affordable” housing, but rather “workforce” housing. He said the company could have built market-priced housing with only eight workforce units, but felt it was “the right thing to do” to make the project 100 percent workforce housing. “Depending on your down payment and other factors, you can get into these homes for what people are charging for rent, or less, and then you have all the benefits of homeownership,” he said. “I hear in the community there’s a need for all kinds of housing, and we’re providing housing for local residents in Maui County.” Ward, who co-owns Kauhikoa Land with West Maui Land Co.’s Peter Martin, is seeking a grading permit and 33 building permits that he hopes to have completed in about a month. Construction is planned for May or June to accommodate the elementary school, which will be on summer break and is the most impacted by the work. Infrastructure is expected to take about four months and homebuilding eight months to a year. The first homeowners could be moving in early next year. “We are really squeezed right now,” Ward said. “It’s very hard to build this type of single-family product and meet the requirements of the workforce housing designation. “It’s a tricky game and there’s a fine line there.” One requirement of the project, which is in a state agriculture district, is the use of the farm plots. Each owner must actively use their plot for agriculture, which also can be rented to others, Ward said. “You can’t park your boat there. You can’t park your car there,” Ward said. “It is limited to ag uses there. You can’t do whatever you want. You need to be doing ag.” When asked what those agricultural uses would be, Ward said the definition is “real broad,” but declined to speak further due to the lawsuit. He said prospective buyers will be clearly told about the required agricultural activities. The state Land Use Commission website says that uses in an agricultural district include cultivation of crops and timber, aquaculture, raising livestock, wind energy and agriculture-support activities (such as mills and employee quarters). Opponents of the project have filed a motion for a preliminary injunction in Environmental Court, which is scheduled to be heard May 5 by Judge Joseph Cardoza. The complaint includes Na Hinano and project neighbors Nina V. Respicio, Nancy Lynn Smith, Ann Saucier and Mary Greener-Wooten as plaintiffs. The plaintiffs argue that the housing development defeats the purpose of having agriculturally zoned land. Housing or “farm dwellings” are supposed to be an accessory use with agriculture being the primary use, Collins said. He said the developer is “just going through the motions” to eventually sell the houses at market rates. If no one qualifies for housing in a particular income bracket, applicants in higher income brackets may purchase the home at higher prices. “It’s designed to fail so the developer is free to sell homes for open market prices, but still get workforce housing credits,” he said. “This is not real housing for local people.” Clustering farm dwellings, or homes, on agricultural land, as is the case with this development, is only permitted for plantation housing, Collins said. He said the houses are more like gentlemen estates, similar to ones in Olowalu, just a “slightly smaller version in Haiku.” “West Maui Land has been doing it for years,” he said. The project is in a state agricultural district but at the county level is zoned interim, which was created in 1958 to provide temporary regulations until a comprehensive zoning ordinance and map were adopted. Interim zoning allows for a wide latitude of uses from single-family homes to agriculture. Collins said that courts across the country have ruled interim zoning ordinances illegal because they were meant to be temporary. He noted that only half of the county has adopted comprehensive zoning. “It’s so broad, it’s almost irrelevant,” Collins said of the ordinance. This is the first time a Maui group is challenging the interim zoning ordinance in court, he said. Concerns over traffic, decades of agricultural chemical use, lack of protection for cultural sites, as well as, water and drainage uses are other issues detailed in the complaint. Na Hinano also alleges that the county failed to meet its public trust obligations under the state constitution and that the development was required to conduct an environmental assessment because it uses old government roads and trails. County Director of Housing and Human Concerns Carol Reimann said she was advised not to comment on the project because of the lawsuit, but acknowledged that the entire county is in need of housing. Maui County’s population is expected to grow by 25 percent and needs an additional 14,000 homes to keep up with demand over the next decade, according to a 2015 housing demand study conducted by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. “Every home counts,” Reimann said. The Haiku Community Association will be discussing the Pauwela Homes project and the Kauhikoa Farms subdivision during its monthly meeting at 6 p.m. Thursday at the Haiku Community Center. County and state representatives are expected to attend the meeting. A workshop for residents interested in the Pauwela Homes project is scheduled for 5:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday in the multipurpose room of the Pilina Building at the University of Hawaii Maui College. Guests are asked to RSVP to 280-8981. Applications are being accepted and residents may obtain prequalification from the mortgage company of their choice, Ward said. He said the majority of the application can be done over the phone. For more information and the application, visit www.pauwelahomes.com/. * Chris Sugidono can be reached at csugidono@mauinews.com. A grant information session for Maui County’s recycling grants program will be at 2 p.m. May 7 in the Mayor’s ... In light of increased property values driving up tax payments, the Maui County Council’s budget committee has ... Copyright © 2025 Maui News Publishing Company, LTD | https://www.mauinews.com | 100 Mahalani Street, Wailuku, HI 96793 | 808-242-6363 highly curated editorial content brings attention to hidden gems Megan currently serves as Only In Your State's Manager of Editorial Megan received a degree in Mass Media in her home state of Minnesota before living in Honolulu escaping into the mountains for long scenic drives Share LinkA Cornerstone Of Its Small Hawaii Community Pauwela Store Is Truly One-Of-A-KindPublished Mar 21 because so much of the food produced here gets exported the produce we find at grocery stores in Hawaii has often been shipped to the islands Nestled inside the walls of a former pineapple cannery Pauwela Store is the exception – specializing in fresh Welcome to Small Business Spotlight our celebration of the ingenuity and innovation of small business owners across the country From well-established restaurants to brand-new specialty stores and everything in between these businesses -- and the hardworking proprietors at their helm -- are truly an inspiration the Pauwela Cannery was a busy hub of activity: The train came and went delivering canned pineapples for shipment to the mainland and transporting workers it is the site of various manufacturing warehouses Courtesy of Kimberly Kriegh, Pauwela Store President & CEOPauwela Store opened its doors in 2017 in a space formerly occupied by a video store to provide locals with healthy organic groceries that were difficult to find unless you drove into town Courtesy of Kimberly Kriegh, Pauwela Store President & CEOThe store was sold in 2019 and but has expanded to be so much more than your average health food store “This little gem of a store was loved by its faithful customers but my family knew it could be something more,” says Kimberly Kriegh we are able to breathe life back into small Hawaii based businesses so that we can all succeed.” All types of Hawaii-based businesses are featured at Pauwela Store – from tiny companies like Coconut Glen’s and Vitalitea Hawaii to more well-known brands like Ocean Vodka and Maui Brewing Company Pauwela Store has become a beloved cornerstone of its community Courtesy of Kimberly Kriegh, Pauwela Store President & CEO“We are the late-night ice cream stop when all other businesses are closed We are the local store where you can pick up a last-minute gift for a friend or loved one or a fancy bottle of champagne or French wine for a celebration and even a place to visit with your neighbors and local travelers,” explains Kriegh This one-stop-shop may not look like much from the exterior you'll discover a wide variety of delicious and healthy options – whether you live on Maui or are stopping by on the Road To Hana Courtesy of Kimberly Kriegh, Pauwela Store President & CEOThere aren’t many independent grocery stores to be found across the Hawaiian Islands anymore but their food selection is only part of what makes Pauwela Store truly exceptional "We love that Pauwela Store is more than just a small neighborhood grocery store; it's a vibe and it's something we will continue to evolve," says Kriegh Choose your stateAlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasNorthern CaliforniaSouthern CaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingSubscribe... 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This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page Weather CINDY ELLEN RUSSELL / CRUSSELL@STARADVERTISER.COM Micah Fernandez grins as he paddles down Waiahole Valley Road on bodyboard during the torrential rains which flooded the area on Monday Many areas around Windward Oahu were flooded Monday after heavy rains NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION Areas of moisture are seen over some of the Hawaiian islands this morning in this satellite image This afternoon’s flood advisories have expired for Oahu A flood watch for the entire state of Hawaii remains in effect from Wednesday through at least Friday Flood advisories have been extended for Oahu the flood advisory is in effect until 7:15 p.m showed rainfall decreasing slightly but heavy showers are possible through this afternoon The heaviest showers were occurring between Central Oahu and Haleiwa Some locations that will experience flooding include Waipio showed heavy rain over west Maui between Kahakuloa and Honolua Bay with rain falling at a rate of 2 inches per hour More showers were reported stationary over windward Haleakala near Keanae Some locations that will experience flooding include Haiku-Pauwela The flood advisory for Hawaii County is in effect until 7 p.m showed slow-moving showers mostly over the upper slopes of Hilo The heaviest showers were near Waikii with rain falling at a rate of up to 2 inches per hour Some locations that will experience flooding include Hilo The advisories may be extended beyond the predicted times if flooding continues The flood advisory remains in effect until 4:15 p.m for Oahu due to flooding caused by excessive rainfall the radar showed heavy rain over Oahu with the heaviest showers falling over Schofield to Laie at a rate of 1 to 2 inches per hour Forecasters said more heavy rain showers will likely develop over the next few hours The flood advisory remains in effect for Hawaii island until 4 p.m.; Kauai until 4:15 p.m.; and Maui until 4:30 p.m Flood advisories have been posted for Hawaii island and the islands of Kauai showed slow-moving heavy rain falling over the slopes of Hilo falling at a rate of up to 2 inches per hour More heavy rain showers are possible throughout this afternoon showed heavy rain over north and Windward Kauai with the heaviest rain falling over Kapahi at a rate of up to 2 inches per hour but more showers are expected through this afternoon Some locations that will experience flooding include Kapaa showed rain falling at a rate of up to 2 inches per hour on Oahu Rain is falling at a rate of up to 2 inches per hour and the showers are moving slowly drifting to the north over the next few hours more heavy showers will likely develop over the next few hours More heavy showers are expected this afternoon Some locations that will experience flooding include Kipahulu The flood advisory for Oahu has been canceled hit-or-miss heavy downpours will continue to be possible over the next couple of days.” The state will be under a flood watch from Wednesday until at least Friday “A late-season kona low will develop several hundred miles north of the islands Tuesday night and then meander around well northwest of the islands the rest of the week,” forecasters said “The kona low will turn our winds southerly as early as Tuesday and eventually tap into deep tropical moisture lurking south of the islands This will cause a slow-moving band of showers and a few embedded thunderstorms over some parts of the state for the second half of the week Excessive rainfall and flash flooding will continue to be a concern.” >> Rainy weather hits Windward Oahu hardest >> PHOTO GALLERY: Heavy rain pounds the windward side of Oahu The flood advisory for Oahu has been extended through 11 a.m showed locally heavy rain showers about to move over the island from the south Rain was observed falling at rates up to 1 inch per hour but weather officials said up to 2 inches per hour will be possible as the band of showers moves onshore More showers are forecast throughout the day Some locations that will experience flooding include Honolulu A flood advisory remains in effect for Oahu and a flood watch will be in effect for the entire state from Wednesday through at least Friday The flood advisory is in effect through 8 a.m today for Oahu due to continued flooding caused by excessive rainfall showed moderate showers moving north at 5 mph with the heaviest rain over East Oahu More showers are possible over the next few hours Some locations that could experience flooding during the morning rush hour include Honolulu The flood watch is in effect from Wednesday morning through Friday evening “Roads in several areas may be closed along with property damage in urban or low-lying spots due to runoff,” the NWS said in a bulletin this morning “Landslides may also occur in areas with steep terrain.” A kona low developing north of the islands will bring the possibility of heavy rain and thunderstorms over parts of the state from Wednesday through Friday and possibly continuing through the weekend Oahu and Maui County are likely to experience heavy rainfall later on Wednesday and into the night The weather system is expected to gradually move westward with Kauai becoming the main area of concern by Friday Privacy Policy | About Our Ads More than a dozen Haʻikū residents asked Maui County Council members Tuesday to consider public acquisition of three Paʻuwela parcels for an estimated $6.8 million The parcels are makai of the Haʻikū Community Center in the vicinity of Paʻuwela Lighthouse and Kuiaha Bay Michael Schwarz said he was informed that the property is for sale. An online search found multiple real estate listings for property in the area, including 43.7 acres at Paʻuwela Lighthouse Road No Schwarz said the Haʻikū community uses the road to Paʻuwela Lighthouse for shoreline access “The stunning coastline should be open to all residents of Haʻikū,” he said “Preserving these properties for public use would enhance the extent of the Hāmākualoa open space which is already owned by the county and enable future generations to enjoy this awe-inspiring coast.” Caroline Kemp said she’s concerned the community would lose access to a culturally important place if a private buyer were to purchase the Paʻuwela lots “This is a big opportunity for the county to add to its Hāmākualoa open space preserve,” she said The county’s acquisition of the lands would guarantee community access “for future generations so that keiki and ʻohana can fish surf and learn about the ocean for years to come.” “Haʻikū is growing rapidly and could benefit from more open space and room to expand upon our community center and school,” Melody Torres said “The last thing our community needs is a new luxury development threatening to take away our limited shoreline access and push out locals even more.” council members approved spending $1.7 million from the county Open Space Fund to purchase 48.8 acres in the Haʻikū Sugar East Subdivision In July 2023, Kamehameha Schools announced that it had acquired 1,053 acres within the Hāmākualoa district of north Maui for $13 million The acquisition is comprised of three separate areas: East Kaupakulua Much of the land is pasture land or agricultural land used to grow pineapple since the early 1950s The residents’ testimony was submitted during a Tuesday evening community meeting of the Budget Finance and Economic Development Committee at the Pāʻia Community Center About a half-dozen other testifiers shared public safety concerns about a homeless encampment off of Holomua Road identified as a “concerned Maui resident,” said the situation has “grown out of control.” As a former employee of the Maui Invasive Species Committee the testifier worked in the area to control fire ants nocturnal coqui frogs and other invasive species “I have witnessed all manner of foul inappropriate and threatening behavior both day and night over the three or so years I drove the road daily and saw the encampment grow and spill its elements into Pāʻia town,” the testifier said Multiple 40-foot dumpsters have been filled with trash from encampment residents and cleared by county workers with bulldozers “I know it’s not unique on Maui but the amount of trash and human waste deposited by homeless residents along Holomua Road is staggering and will likely have consequences for the ecosystem (native seabirds at Hoʻokipa etc.) and public health,” the testifier said The concerned resident said there have been multiple brush fires along Holomua Road and “it’s a miracle none of them grew to catastrophic levels that could affect downwind residents business owners and visitors in Kūʻau and Pāʻia.” The Budget Committee’s next community meeting is at 6 p.m April 8 at the Lahaina Civic Center gymnasium in West Maui Written testimony is accepted via eComment. Visit mauicounty.us/agendas then select the agenda item to submit comments on For more information on testifying, go to www.mauicounty.us or contact the Office of Council Services at 808-270-7838 Meanwhile, Budget Committee members are reviewing Maui County departments as they consider Mayor Richard Bissen’s proposed fiscal year 2025 spending plan for $1.69 billion the Department of Environmental Management reported significant wildfire impacts including: four wastewater pump stations that have been fixed temporarily; a compromised wastewater collection system; 847 destroyed refuse carts; and a recycling drop box and HI-5 center demolished The department is asking for a 2% increase for sewage rates and fees which would increase revenue by an estimated $1.2 million The department’s proposed capital improvement project budget is $40.7 million for fiscal 2025 for the Wastewater Division up from $36 million in fiscal 2024; and $4.6 million for the Solid Waste Division down from $7.25 million in the current fiscal year The department has 214 filled and 34 vacant positions mostly 20 open positions in the Wastewater Division where the vacancy rate is running at 16% the Department of Parks and Recreation presented committee members with its fiscal 2025 budget request for $43.8 million The department reported having 84 staff vacancies A $1 hike is being requested for green fees The rate increase is expected to raise an additional $73,000 to pay for higher costs of utilities the committee will review budget requests from the Maui Police Department the Department of Personnel Services and the Department of Liquor Control Most people consider Hawaii a beautiful vacation spot the island is home to 1.4 million permanent residents who wake up daily to some of the most stunning beaches and nature if you’ve always dreamed of living in paradise and you’ll enjoy abundant amenities and modern facilities people examine essential factors when choosing the right place to live in Hawaii While Hawaii is not the cheapest place to live what people get for their money by living here is worth it for many Here are the 9 best places to live in Hawaii in 2025 depending on their circumstances and priorities Princeville is a residential destination thanks to its breathtaking natural beauty Overlooking the cliffs of Hanalei Bay and surrounded by panoramic ocean and mountain views it offers a tranquil lifestyle perfect for those seeking serenity and connection with nature Residents enjoy access to world-class golf courses The area combines a relaxed island pace with refined living and anyone looking to invest in a scenic and safe Hawaiian community while Princeville itself doesn't host schools Mililani’s island has a remarkable location with a unique landscape compared to the beach cities It is a family-friendly island with lots of things to keep kids entertained Multiple schools in Mililani are considered the best schools in all of Hawaii such as the Hanalani private school and the Mililani High School suburban vibe and a strong sense of community but people can reach several beautiful beaches in 30 minutes or less but with a 30-minute drive to the capital center this won't be a headache for people looking for job opportunities Wailea, on the island of Maui making it one of the best places to live in Hawaii and the area gets quite crowded during peak season it has managed to maintain its local flavor and its small community of 5,600 people is protective of it The number of local businesses in Wailea has also increased providing residents with great work opportunities which makes it a drawing destination for families With a population of 40,323, Kailua is a suburb of Honolulu and a perfect option for families home to several schools operated by the Hawaii Department of Education and more; and a public transport system and has exceptionally low crime rates There are highly rated schools here for the children The cost of living is 12% higher overall than the Honolulu average such as the Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary and Maui Nui Botanical Gardens Hilo is a perfect choice for expats living and working in Hawaii this surviving Hawaiian plantation town is located on the eastern side of Hawaii and surrounded by forest reserves It is the largest commercial and residential area on the Big Island which is the only tropical rainforest zoo in the United States including Extreme Exposure Fine Art Gallery This means a wide range of jobs are available From transport to education to retail to tourism expats can find work regardless of their skills The cost of living is also reasonable compared to other Hawaiian Islands allowing it to preserve its heritage and local atmosphere Residents enjoy immersive outdoor activities with quick access to hiking and beaches such as the secluded Carlsmith Beach Park and the Wailoa River State Recreation Area Located on Oahu’s south shore, Pearl City boasts a high number of households with children Families are drawn by its above-average public school system and the University of Hawaii-Leeward Community College Pearl City offers a perfect mix of affordability and shopping without the high price tag of other Oahu neighborhoods It is one of the most affordable areas of Hawaii to buy real estate including the Pacheco playground or visit the main attraction where the Japanese military launched a surprise attack on the island in 1941 Waikapu is another small city on the island of Maui Many families and professionals are drawn to Waikapū for its peaceful environment The small population of 3,887 means families embed themselves into a tight-knit community with crime rates 61% lower than the Hawaii average and real estate prices are slightly below average for all the islands The area is also part of long-term development plans aiming to provide sustainable housing and community-centered living while preserving the island’s cultural and agricultural roots Haiku-Pauwela boasts a quiet community known for its lush tropical environment This area attracts those who prefer a more relaxed and laid-back lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of Maui’s more tourist-heavy areas making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts with crime rates 53% lower than the state’s average it has a higher cost of living than the rest of the islands The island is popular for its strong sense of community and active participation in environmental and sustainability efforts making it a popular choice for those seeking a more eco-conscious way of living Hawaii continues to offer more than just a tropical escape; it’s a diverse and dynamic place to call home Whether you’re drawn to the soothing nature of Princeville or the small-town charm of Waikapu and Haiku-Pauwela From great schools and tight-knit communities to access to nature and cultural depth Hawaii blends everyday comfort with natural beauty and stunning surroundings make it a worthwhile investment for many photos and original descriptions © 2025 worldatlas.com HAIKU — The Maui Fire Department hopes to finalize funding for a Haiku fire station by 2025 and have it operable by around 2026 in a “best-case scenario” for the long-stalled project design and zoning phase to establish a new state-of-the-art fire station on a portion of a county-owned nearly 28-acre property located near the corner of Hana Highway and East Kuiaha Road across from the Valley Isle Memorial Park Plans for a Haiku fire station have been years in the making Ventura said during a Haiku Community Association meeting last week at the Haiku Community Center the county purchased the parcel with the intent of building a fire station on an approximately 6-acre site Peahi and Pauwela area are the Paia and Makawao Fire Stations which are located about 6 and 8 miles from the proposed site These stations are considered undersized for serving the increasing need according to the project’s environmental assessment previously received pushback from Haiku community members who were concerned about the location and some of the proposed project features planners said at a community meeting in 2021 Ventura said last week that planners have removed much of the high-profile structures from the property’s design “One of the biggest challenges of this project that I’ve heard because I haven’t been involved the whole time is basically opposition,” said Ventura who was appointed chief in 2021 after 19 years of service with the department “Opposition always slows things down talk to people and show people what we want to do out there … I think we’ve done a lot of the changes to the property to kind of reduce the profile and have it blend in a little more over there versus having it be a large sore thumb.” The apparatus bay where the fire trucks would park is the highest structure left on the property adding that the neighboring structures will be much “lower profile” office buildings none of the structures on site will exceed 30 feet There will be two water meters for domestic needs and a 40,000-gallon 7-foot-tall water tank for fire professional uses The projected costs to build the fire station have increased over the years but ultimately will be determined by “what we design there,” Ventura said The department anticipates the funding to finalize by June 2025 and then construction can commence thereafter The fire station is roughly estimated to be done and operable by 2026 “This is the best-case scenario timeline that the consultants were able to provide us so that I could share with you our hopes for this project,” he said MFD is working with county departments to obtain funding for the next fiscal year to demolish old long-standing structures on the property and remove abandoned vehicles that attract “less-than-desirable activity.” * Dakota Grossman can be reached at dgrossman@mauinews.com A grant information session for Maui County’s recycling grants program will be at 2 p.m In light of increased property values driving up tax payments the Maui County Council’s budget committee has .. Copyright © 2025 Maui News Publishing Company LTD | https://www.mauinews.com | 100 Mahalani Street low-lying clouds are seen above Makiki during a flood advisory today Heavy rain was falling over the Koolau mountains this morning The flood advisory for Hawaii island has been canceled The entire state remains under a flood watch through Sunday afternoon Forecasters said the Hawaiian islands will see periods of moderate to locally heavy rain spreading northwestward across the state today and Sunday with isolated thunderstorms possible over the eastern end of the state Light to moderate tradewinds are expected through this evening followed by “breezy trades with slightly drier conditions” next week A flood advisory for Hawaii island has been extended until 7:30 p.m radar indicated heavy rain over several areas of leeward Big Island with especially heavy rain from near Waikoloa to Honaunau,” forecasters said ” Rain was falling at a rate of 1 to 2 inches per hour.” “Radar shows that the heavy rain has diminished and stream gauges show that water levels have dropped,” weather officials said The Big Island advisory in in effect until 4:30 p.m while an earlier advisory for Kauai has been canceled Flood advisories have been issued for parts of Kauai and Hawaii island this afternoon “rain gauges indicated heavy rain over windward portions,” especially over Wailua “radar indicated heavy rain over several leeward areas,” forecasters said A high surf advisory for all eastern shores The flash flood warning for Oahu expired at 1:15 p.m “Widespread heavy rainfall has diminished over windward Oahu but pockets of heavy showers continue to move ashore,” said forecasters “and the flash flood warning has been replaced with a flood advisory.” The flood advisory for the island remains in effect until 4:15 p.m with the potential to move into portions of Central Oahu where heavy rain has already fallen earlier today Rain was falling at a rate of 1 to 2 inches an hour A high surf advisory for all east-facing shores remains in effect through 6 p.m. and a flood watch for all main Hawaiian islands remains in effect through Sunday afternoon the National Weather Service has extended the flash flood warning for Oahu until 1:15 p.m radar indicated heavy rain over central and eastern Oahu including communities in urban Honolulu,” forecasters said “Rain was falling at a rate of 1.5 to 3 inches per hour and was especially heavy from Halawa to near Pearl City Periods of heavy showers over already saturated ground may quickly lead to runoff and flash flooding “Water levels in already elevated streams could rise rapidly with additional heavy rain Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly.” The flash flood warning for Oahu has been extended until 12:30 p.m radar indicated heavy rain over windward Oahu,” National Weather Service forecasters said “Rain rates as high as 1.5 to 2.5 inches per hour have been observed “Flash flooding is likely ongoing.” The flash flood warning for Maui has expired National Weather Service forecasters said heavy rain over windward Oahu at a rate of as much as 3 inches per hour “may quickly lead to runoff and flash flooding.” In an update to the flash flood warning for Oahu “Water levels in streams are expected to continue to rise Manoa Stream at Woodlawn has reached 10.5 feet which is known to cause impacts that include inundating nearby property Maui also remains under a flash flood warning but forecasters said rain is diminishing there “water levels remain dangerously high in most east Maui streams,” they said The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for the main Hawaiian islands through Sunday afternoon “Flood prone roads and other low lying areas may be closed due to elevated runoff and overflowing streams Urban areas may receive more significant flooding and property damage A weather system moving over the islands through Sunday will result in “a very unstable atmosphere Conditions will be increasingly favorable for the development of heavy showers and thunderstorms especially over windward areas,” they said in the flood watch statement The flood watch is in addition to the flash flood warnings in effect for Oahu and Maui And a high surf advisory is in effect for all eastern shores Hawaii island Civil Defense said Bayfront Highway in Hilo is closed in both directions through today due to high surf and debris on roadway Flash flood warnings has been issued for Oahu and Maui this morning The National Weather Service in Honolulu said the warning lasts until 9:30 a.m radar indicated heavy rain over windward Oahu Rain rates as high as 1.5 to 2.5 inches per hour have been observed,” forecasters said “Periods of heavy showers over already saturated ground may quickly lead to runoff and flash flooding Water levels in streams are expected to continue to rise “radar indicated heavy rain over windward east Maui Rain was falling at a rate of 2 to 3 inches per hour The warnings replace flood advisories issued earlier today and may be extended if flooding persists Parts of Oahu and Maui are under a flood advisory this morning as a rainy weather system begins moving over the state according to the National Weather Service in Honolulu radar indicated heavy rain over the Koolaus Rain was falling at a rate of up to 2 inches per hour,” the advisory said radar indicated heavy rain over east and southeast slopes of Haleakala Rain was falling at a rate of up to 2 inches per hour,” the Maui advisory said In addition to the flood advisories a high surf advisory is in effect for all eastern shores through 6 p.m The weather service predicts large breaking waves of up to 8 to 12 feet this morning Hurricane Kristy in the East Pacific “is rapidly weakening” and expected to dissipate into a post-tropical remnant low by Sunday before reaching the Central Pacific according to the National Hurricane Center in Miami which was a major hurricane earlier this week far from land in the East Pacific had maximum sustained winds around 75 mph with higher gusts as of this morning Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker A new 33-home subdivision is being built on 18.5 acres in Haʻikū that uniquely offers 100% Workforce Housing for Maui families with a 5,000 sq ft farm lot to go along with each property The Paʻuwela Homes development is located on former A&B pineapple land mauka of the Haʻikū Community Center and the Pilialoha Subdivision It’s also bordered by the Paʻuwela Gulch and Lot 5 Kauhikoa Farms to the south and is within walking distance of Haʻikū Elementary School Kauhikoa Land LLC purchased the parcel in November of 2015 and has been working on the development of the project since then Developers say Paʻuwela Homes is the ideal location for Maui’s working families “It’s targeted for a specific group We need all kinds of housing on Maui,” said Dave Ward “It will not solve the lack of inventory on the island,” but he said it will offer the benefits of home ownership to island residents in a market where rents are often in excess of the monthly payment on a home Ward called the 33 unit subdivision “a start,” saying there has been very little product on the market in the area and “very little additional inventory in Haʻikū with the exception of agricultural lots.” Given the current guidelines on housing projects developers of a project this size would only be required to provide eight homes at workforce prices but Ward said he hoped the 100% workforce subdivision would provide one solution to the need for housing for Maui families “It’s not going to solve all of the world’s problems,” but Ward said he hopes the project can be a nice “positive addition to the community.” The workforce subdivision is regulated under Maui County Code 2.96 meaning that entitlements were already in place with the area already designated for single-family use in the Pāʻia-Haʻikū Community Plan that was adopted in 1995 The community features 3 and 4 bedroom single-family homes on 6,900-11,500 sq ft lots that each come with an additional 5,000 sf farm plot for growing fruits and vegetables and other farming opportunities The fee-simple homes are being prioritized for income-qualified owner occupants who meet the criteria established by the County of Maui Maximum home prices based on qualifications range from $449,200 to $723,235 Ten of the properties are for families with a median income of between 80-100% (up to $81,500); 17 of the homes are for families with a median income of between 100-120%($81,500-$97,800); and six of the homes are for families with a median income of 120-140% ($97,800-$114,100) Depending on how much a homeowner can contribute as a down-payment estimates are that the monthly mortgage on the home could range from an estimated $2,300 to the mid $3,000s Maui residents will be given priority over other eligible applicants an applicant must be a citizen of the US or a permanent resident alien of the County of Maui; must be 18 years of age or older; have a gross annual family income which does not exceed 140% of the County’s median income as established by HUD; have assets that do not exceed 140% of the County’s median income as established by HUD; have no ownership or joint ownership that was 50% or more of a property in fee or leasehold in the US for three years before submittal of the buyer interest form Paʻuwela Homes workshops for potential home buyers A buyer workshop for the Paʻuwela Homes project is being offered for those interested in purchasing a home at the new subdivision  Those in attendance will learn how to qualify and find out more about the project on both days at the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College Pilina Building The project is the subject of a lawsuit filed by four plaintiffs against Kauhikoa Land LLC and the County of Maui challenging the recent approval of the project Concerns raised included alleged traffic impacts Maui Now has learned that access to the project will be via two separate County of Maui roadways: Pilialoha Street and Paʻuwela Road both of which are regulated by speed limits and other county rules for safety An Environmental Site Assessment investigation was conducted in mid-2015 which included review of environmental records The document concluded that there was no evidence of recognized environmental conditions nor historical recognized environmental conditions The developer also conducted soil sampling and tested for two types of chemicals used in pineapple production An Archaeology Inventory Survey was also compiled in 2016 and documented seven historic sites “none of which were in the area of the proposed workforce housing project and none of which were recommended for preservation or further work.”  Archival research acknowledged the existence of loʻi and other historical sites located on adjacent land in the nearby gulch A drainage report was reviewed during the building permit and grading permit process and plans are to implement a Low Impact development to capture storm water and protect water quality “Paʻuwela Homes is designed to provide more families with the opportunity to obtain single family homes in Haʻikū,” Ward said  “The families will become members of the Haʻikū community just as families had the opportunity to join the Haʻikū community in the 1980s with the Pilialoha Subdivision.” Peter Martin said the “practical difficulties of this type of lawsuit until settled is recent buyers can not get financing for their homes.”  He said one family has decided to not purchase because they can not get financing Martin said he faced a similar lawsuit over the Kahoma Homes affordable project that was won after five years of legal proceedings  He called that lawsuit “frivolous,” and “nimby,” resulting in millions of dollars in costs and delays Ward said he hopes the Paʻuwela Homes will be a positive addition to the community and offer families an opportunity to own a single-family home on the island Paʻuwela Homes subdivision – Model A: 3B Paʻuwela Homes subdivision – Model B: 3B Paʻuwela Homes subdivision – Model C: 4B HAIKU — “Unprecedented rainfall” sent floodwaters over the edge of a dam in Haiku Monday afternoon destroying a bridge and forcing the evacuation of residents downstream Firefighters responded to more than a dozen calls from residents surrounded by rising floodwaters the National Weather Service warned of “imminent failure” of the Kaupakalua Dam in Haiku Police went door to door in neighborhoods downstream of the dam in Haiku and Pauwela evacuating some residents and alerting others to get ready to evacuate evacuations were ordered for all downstream residents Neighbors near Haiku and East Kuiaha roads set up sandbags and makeshift barricades to stop water from entering their homes it was too late — debris and brown water inundated their houses Swollen riverbeds spilled onto Kaupakalua Road forcing a line of traffic to turn around at about 3:30 p.m People hoping to get to their houses farther east toward Five Corners or Twin Falls were cut off by swift-moving floodwater that swallowed a major swath of Hana Highway near West Kuiaha Road A bridge on Peahi Road was toppled by mid-afternoon “I haven’t seen this much water in the 19 years I’ve been here,” said Blaine Wiens Mayor Michael Victorino reported that Kaupakalua Road was impassable in some areas and that about half a dozen homes were heavily damaged or destroyed “This is a real flooding situation we have not seen in a long time,” Victorino said Monday afternoon before he headed out to the scene some of the residents have told me that this is the worst they’ve seen in over 25 years.” Shelters were opened at the Paia Community Center Eddie Tam Center in Makawao and Hana High School American Red Cross volunteers staffed the shelters Officials advised people to stay away from low-lying areas near streams and not to return to the area downstream of Kaupakalua Dam until there is an “all clear” announcement even if there is less rainfall and conditions appear to be improving “If you have family and friends and you can get out of the Haiku area that is probably preferable but be careful,” Victorino said Monday afternoon Do not try to cross it at this time.” gauges measured 10.38 inches of rain at West Wailuaiki near Keanae 6.09 inches at Puu Kukui in the West Maui Mountains and 1.35 inches in Pukalani radar and automated rain gauges indicated that heavy rain was falling over windward Haleakala Water was reported to be flowing over Hana Highway at Wailua with rain falling at a rate of 2 to 3 inches per hour A flash flood watch remained in effect through at least late tonight for Maui County A county evacuation map shows about 30 parcels or lots below the dam which is at Kaupakalua Gulch near Peahi Road East Maui Irrigation owns the land where the Kaupakalua Reservoir is located according to the state Department of Land and Natural Resources which is half-owner of East Maui Irrigation contacted the department dam safety program at about 1:30 p.m Monday “to report extremely heavy rainfall and indicated the spillway was running very high,” according to a DLNR news release East Maui Irrigation reported water was starting to top the dam embankment “Today we notified state and county officials that due to the unprecedented rainfall reached peak levels causing the overtopping of the dam,” said Shan Tsutsui “Out of concerns for the safety of the surrounding community the highway was closed and residents were ordered to evacuate upon our recommendation.” Mahi Pono reported the overtopping of the dam had stopped our crews are actively monitoring the situation and will continue monitoring the water levels until it returns to a safe level,” Tsutsui said “Our primary concern is for the safety of the residents in the area and the emergency responders We are committed to working with state and county emergency response officials as the situation develops.” Flooding led to closures of Makawao Avenue at the Piiholo Road intersection and close to the Kokomo Road intersection Makani Road at Old Haleakala Highway and Kaupakalua Road just past West Kuiaha Road and between Lepo and Pakanu streets Hana Highway was also shut down from Peahi Road to Keanae though Kaupakalua Road remained closed as of 7 p.m. and other nearby roads could shut down as needed County parks on Maui were closed Monday afternoon Parks were to be assessed for reopening today Haiku Elementary School was in full distance learning mode today because of the flooding and heavy rain The school expected to resume blended learning Wednesday Victorino cautioned residents of Molokai and Lanai “You know where the danger points are,” he said He advised visitors to “stay in your hotel or your place of lodging please do not go out tonight,” Victorino said Many outside events are canceled and many restaurants will probably be closing to protect their employees as well as their guests.” * Lila Fujimoto can be reached at lfujimoto@mauinews.com Kehaulani Cerizo can be reached at kcerizo@mauinews.com Radar shows heavy showers hitting parts of Oahu this afternoon The flood advisories for Maui and Hawaii island have expired The National Weather Service said that Hawaii’s rainy weather of the last two days will give way to more typical tradewind weather by the end of the week Locally heavy showers and a few thunderstorms are possible with most shower activity over the coastal waters through early Wednesday morning “Light to gentle tradewinds will gradually return Wednesday providing a hybrid sea breeze trade wind pattern where leeward and interior areas may still see some clouds build up in the afternoon as well as clouds and showers focusing along windward and mauka areas,” forecasters said “Typical breezy tradewinds are expected Friday into early next week.” The flood advisory for Maui has been extended and a separate advisory has been issued for the west side of Hawaii island as the scattered storms that have doused the islands over the last two days continue to move east Both advisories are in effect until 9:15 p.m The Big Island advisory covers Kailua-Kona The Maui advisory covers the entire island but National Weather Service forecasters said that some locations that will experience flooding include Kahului The flood advisory for Maui is now in effect until 9 p.m while the flood advisory for Oahu remains until 7:45 p.m radar indicated areas of moderate to heavy showers over the slopes of Haleakala Rain was falling at a rate of 1 to 2 inches per hour with the heaviest showers over the southern slopes Additional areas of heavy rain is possible through this evening,” according to the updated advisory Some locations that will experience flooding include Kahului The flood advisory for Oahu has been extended until 7:45 p.m while the Molokai advisory has been canceled radar indicated areas of moderate to heavy showers over downtown Honolulu and east Oahu Additional areas of heavy rain is possible through this evening,” the updated National Weather Service advisory said Maui’s flood advisory is in effect until 6 p.m with the heaviest showers over the southern slopes,” forecasters said Maui and Molokai are under flood advisories this afternoon as strong showers expand to the east The Maui island advisory is in effect until 6 p.m radar indicated areas of moderate to heavy showers developing over the interior of the island with the heaviest showers over the slopes of Haleakala. with heavy showers developing over the interior of the island Oahu remains under a flood advisory until 4:45 p.m The flood advisory for Oahu has been extended until 4:45 p.m radar indicated areas of moderate to heavy showers persistently developing east of the Waianae Mountains,” the updated National Weather Service advisory said “Rain was falling at a rate of 1 to 2 inches per hour The heaviest showers are currently over Central Oahu and the Koolau Mountains Additional areas of heavy rain is possible through this evening The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a flood advisory for Oahu this afternoon with heavy showers hitting parts of the island for the second straight day radar indicated areas of moderate to heavy showers persistently developing over areas east of the Waianae Mountains,” according to the advisory which is in effect until 3:30 p.m rain was falling at a rate of 1 to 2 inches per hour.” Heavy rain is possible through this evening for the island unstable airmass” that has delivered scattered heavy showers to Oahu and Kauai over the last two days is expected to move on from the state by Wednesday which will see a return of typical tradewind weather into early next week there remains a chance of locally heavy showers and possible thunderstorms this afternoon Most of the showers will be over coastal waters or near the coast tonight