Amending the water availability policy on subdivision construction plans (Bill 1)
Maui County
Summary
Bill 1 would let the county review subdivision construction plans while a developer is still proving it has long-term water — potentially shaving months off a permitting process that can run three and a half years. Opponents worry about drought, aquifer health, county staff doing wasted work, and weakening the 'show me the water' law; supporters, including industry reps, say it just speeds up paperwork without changing the water requirement.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 1
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Jan 26, 2026.
Impact analysis
Developers could save months of carrying costs — one industry witness estimated $50,000 to $100,000 a month — while the county risks staff time on plans that may never be built.
Subdividers and housing providers who could shave months or years off permitting, and ultimately homebuyers waiting on new housing.
Opponents argue it could strain short-staffed review offices, add political pressure on water decisions, and let speculative developers pass water risk on to future lot buyers.
Mentions & discussions (1)
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