Maui Land & Pine water acquisition

In-person testifier fully supported the acquisition, citing water resiliency, fire suppression, and housing benefits, and praised reducing water privatization.

Cofounder of Kaheawai Media summarized community reporting: residents want water prioritized for ʻāina and communities, an end to for-profit water, community-led governance, tough negotiation for taxpayers, and reinvestment in the system. Concerns raised about water credits and unclear housing commitments in rezonings.

Anonymous phone testifier who praised staff, discussed remote-testimony access issues for those without smartphones, and commented on the Salvation Army land parcel.

Said royal patent heirs of Kamehameha III must be contacted first and hold the lands forever; opposed any construction at Mokuhinia/Mokuʻula in Lahaina.

Honokōhau Valley resident supported removing private purveyors from public trust water but objected to water credits tied to the deal, wanted more transparency on the MOU, and urged consultation with ʻohana and kuleana landowners every step of the way.

Argued Kānaka Maoli have inalienable rights to wai and need a stronghold in water decision-making; warned that changing ownership without changing governance helps no one, and said MLP should not receive future water for luxury development.