Maui 'is not for sale': Survivors stand firm against developers

Introduction

The devastating wildfires in Maui have left many residents homeless and mourning the loss of their properties. As they begin to pick up the pieces and rebuild their lives, they now face a new challenge - developers interested in buying their land. However, the survivors are determined to stand their ground and preserve their beloved community.

Will some property sales in Hawaii be banned after fires?

Residents like John Dimuro, who has called the island home for over 40 years, are adamant about protecting their community from big companies and wealthy individuals seeking to exploit the situation. They believe that the government should step in and impose a ban on property development. Hawaii Governor Josh Green has expressed similar concerns and is exploring the possibility of a moratorium on the sales of damaged or destroyed properties. However, it seems that the developers are undeterred by the governor's words, leaving locals frustrated and angry.

Photo: Tammy Kaililaau, left, Joncy Kaililaau, center and Ohi Kaililaau stopped at a placard distribution site outside Lahaina, Maui on Monday, August 14, 2023. The family was stuck in Lahaina for two days after the wildfire destroyed their home and now they cannot re-enter to search for belongings because of official roadblocks.

How much does it cost to live in Maui?

Even before the wildfires, Maui was already facing an affordable housing crisis. International demand for second and third homes had driven up prices, making it incredibly expensive for local families to find suitable housing. The median price of a home in Maui has soared to around $1.2 million, and the median condo price is $850,000. Many residents work low-paying service jobs in the hospitality or tourism industry, making it even more challenging to afford housing. Additionally, some homes in the affected area did not meet insurance requirements, making them even more difficult to insure.

Photo: FEMA is set up outside of War Memorial Gymnasium, a makeshift shelter for displaced residents, in Wailuku, Hawaii, on Aug. 14.

'This is not for sale'

The real danger for displaced families lies in the long and uncertain road to recovery. Compensation for rebuilding may take time, leaving families struggling to cover the cost of interim housing. With rents already sky-high in Maui, some families may face significant challenges. However, Sterling Higa, the executive director of Housing Hawaii’s Future, emphasizes the need for government, grassroots, and nonprofit organizations to work together to ensure affordable housing options for displaced families. It is crucial to provide sufficient assistance and housing to prevent residents from feeling pressured to sell their land hastily.

Photo: Jonah Lion walks through the supply hub at an abandoned restaurant in Maalaea Harbor. A former firefighter, Lion has used his knowledge to assist in aid efforts for those affected by the wildfire in Lahaina.

Jonah Lion, an advocate for maintaining the community's integrity, believes that selling their land would lead to a "whole different type of rebuilding" dominated by prime beachfront properties. Over the years, developers have approached residents with tempting offers, but Lion is confident that those in multigenerational homes will have the strength to resist. "No. We're not selling. This is not for sale," he affirms.

In these challenging times, it is essential to support the survivors of the Maui wildfires and ensure they have the resources and assistance they need to rebuild their lives. Together, we can help them preserve their community and overcome the obstacles they face.

Contributing: The Associated Press