Lahaina Community Monthly Disaster Recovery Meeting on May 6, 2026 at Lahaina Intermediate School

The County of Maui held the Lahaina Community Monthly Disaster Recovery Meeting on May 6, 2026, focusing on ongoing recovery efforts following recent disasters. Key procurement-related discussions included updates on the USDA Rural Disaster Home Repair Grant Program, which has a $3 million allocation to assist homeowners with repairs and sewer connections, and the County's homeowner reconstruction program offering up to $400,000 in assistance for rebuilding homes lost in the fire. The meeting also covered Hawaiian Electric's infrastructure hardening project along Honoapiilani Highway, involving the replacement of 20 wooden poles with stronger composite or steel poles to enhance wildfire safety. Additionally, the County discussed the voluntary strategic mitigation buyout program aimed at acquiring high-risk properties to convert them into open space for long-term risk reduction. Budget updates noted the County's progress on funding allocations, including securing funds to cover special assessments for shovel-ready residential projects. The meeting addressed policy and program details related to duplication of benefits, reimbursement deadlines, and eligibility criteria for disaster recovery assistance. Fire prevention efforts and community responsibilities for fuel reduction were also highlighted. No formal votes or contract awards were reported, but several action items and program opportunities were emphasized to support community recovery and resilience.