Maui County Kokua Fund for emergency donations (Bill 93)
Maui County
Summary
After the 2023 wildfires, over $140 million in donations went largely to an O'ahu-based nonprofit without Council oversight. Chair Lee's Kokua Fund bill would let the County accept emergency donations directly with quarterly reporting, giving the Council a window into where the money goes.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 3
- Last 30 days
- 1
Discussed at 1 meeting in the last 60 days; most recently Oct 20, 2026.
Impact analysis
No direct cost to taxpayers — it's about tracking donated money, but new accounting work would be needed if structured as a special fund.
Residents who want to donate to the County during a disaster and expect accountability for how the money is spent.
Critically, none identified, though some members worried the County could become a lightning rod for donation criticism as Hawai'i Community Foundation was.
Mentions & discussions (2)
Budget, Finance, and Economic Development Committee (2025-2027) — October 20, 2026
After the 2023 wildfires, donation handling was slow and confusing. The three bills let the Mayor accept and spend disaster donations immediately, create a $100,000 placeholder line item, and require quarterly reports so residents' generosity reaches victims faster.
Budget, Finance, and Economic Development Committee (2025-2027) — September 1, 2026
After the 2023 wildfires, over $140 million in donations went largely to an O'ahu-based nonprofit without Council oversight. Chair Lee's Kokua Fund bill would let the County accept emergency donations directly with quarterly reporting, giving the Council a window into where the money goes.
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