Bill 9 Has Passed | A Monumental Step Forward for Maui

Today marks a meaningful and long-overdue step forward for Maui.

With the passage of Bill 9, our County has made a clear statement: the future of Maui must be built with intention, accountability, and respect for the people who live and work here. This bill represents progress not just in policy, but in values.

For too long, residents have watched decisions made about them rather than with them. Bill 9 signals a shift toward a more thoughtful approach; one that recognizes the importance of community voice, transparency, and long-term stewardship over short-term gain. Your participation is vital in shaping Maui's future.

This moment matters.

It matters to working families trying to stay rooted in Kahului.

It matters to small businesses and local workers who want a fair shot.

It matters to residents who believe County government should reflect the people it serves, not outside interests or distant priorities. We are committed to ensuring Bill 9 remains focused on community needs and free from undue outside influence.

Passing legislation is never the end of the work; it is the beginning of responsibility. The true measure of Bill 9's success will be how faithfully it is implemented, how clearly it is communicated, and how well it serves the everyday lives of our residents. Your continued support and engagement are essential to this process.

As someone who has put time into serving this community, progress only counts when it reaches the ground, when people can see it, feel it, and trust it. Together, we can ensure that Bill 9 truly benefits Maui and its people.

Bill 9 allows Maui to do just that.

My warmest mahalo to our Mayor & Councilmembers who put our people first over profit. Council staff who spent hours on legislative correspondence. Community members who engaged in our democratic process to advocate for the betterment of Maui.

I look forward to continued conversations to ensure this momentum translates into tangible, measurable benefits for our people and our island home.

Maui deserves governance that is steady, transparent, and grounded in community. Today, we took a step in that direction. Today, we took a step in that direction.

— Aunty Carol Lee Kamekona