Maui County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Maui County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Firefighter labor settlement and arbitration dispute
The settlement resolves two prohibited-practices complaints between the County mayors and the firefighters union, ending a fight over the interest arbitration award. Firefighters keep step increases through 2029 and get extra 1.5% raises in 2027 and 2028; the union leader told the committee this matters as recruitment struggles and living costs climb.
County pay versus Maui's cost of living
Members pressed on whether county wages can keep up with Maui housing and living costs — entry-level salaries around $36,000–$40,000 fall far short of the estimated $90,000–$100,000 needed to live here. Compensation studies are outside this project's scope, but supplemental agreements and pay flexibility came up repeatedly.
Council vacancy Charter amendment
After a council seat sat empty under an awkward process, members want voters to decide on a new system: special elections for longer remaining terms and appointments kept within the council. Details — especially the tiebreaker — still need work.