Budget, Finance, and Economic Development Committee (2025-2027) - 2026-04-23

Approved $3.4 million bond funding under Department of Public Works for acquisition of TMK 2-3-9017, a 14-acre parcel to be used for southern terminus of North-South Collector Road and flood control. Located on Makai side of Piilani Highway near South Maui Police Department.

Approved up to $3 million from Open Space Fund for Keauhali'i to acquire 115.56 acres for conservation easement. Hawaii Islands Land Trust will serve as holder. Property includes burials and heiau, previously marketed for luxury home development.

Approved $1.5 million grant to Ka'ahumanu Church for restoration project. Church built in 1876, on National Historic Register, part of Royal Compound. Located across from council chambers.

Reduced visitor industry tourism management grant fund from $450,000 to $300,000. Added conditions requiring funds be used for information and education including disaster preparedness for short-term rental visitors, invasive species awareness, etiquette in public spaces and parks, and cultural information.

Reduced appropriation by $550,000 for remaining total of $6,600,000. Department confirmed Molokai and Hana base yard projects would not be affected by the cut.

Increased small grants threshold from $25,000 to $30,000 per grant to accommodate inflation and make grants more accessible to small nonprofits. Total fund reduced to $1.6 million.

Increased all council member residency area funds from $140,000 to $150,000 per district, with West Maui opting out of the additional $10,000.

Reduced emergency fund by $32 million to reflect funds already authorized for Kona Low storm response, bringing balance to $85,851,900.

Created new idle fee of $1 per minute applied 10 minutes after charging ends until vehicle leaves charging stall for county-owned EV charging stations.

Added one new expansion position for highway utility worker for road maintenance on Lanai with six months funding ($37,854). Department confirmed position description already exists and no reorganization required.

Approved up to $59,000 grant from Open Space Fund to Kipahulu Community Association for purchase of approximately 2.640 acres in Kipahulu (TMK 2-1-6-007-008) for conservation.

Reduced Makahiki season marketing budget by $50,000 from $150,000 to $100,000 under Office of the Mayor Economic Development Program.

Discussion on $13 million from GET fund for Ho'onani Village mixed-use development water system improvements was tabled pending further information from water department and clarification on whether GET funds can be used for private development that will later be deeded to county.

Proposal for $500,000 zero-interest loan for design and permitting of private wastewater treatment facility to serve portion of Waikapu Country Town was discussed but withdrawn. Member Cook will draft resolution urging administration to fund through carryover savings.