The Maui County Housing and Land Use Committee convened on June 25, 2025, to discuss Bill 9, which targets short-term rentals (STRs) in apartment-zoned areas. The bill has sparked significant debate among community members, with many expressing strong opposition based on concerns about its potential impact on the local economy and housing crisis.

During the meeting, several residents shared personal testimonies highlighting their struggles with housing affordability. One resident recounted their experience with homelessness while attending college, emphasizing the need for a multifaceted approach to housing issues that does not unfairly burden any single group. They criticized Bill 9 for targeting STRs while leaving hotel and resort zones unaffected, raising concerns about unequal treatment under the law.

Another testifier, who has been actively involved in community support initiatives, argued that the bill could harm local businesses reliant on tourism. They called for the council to engage with local vendors and small businesses to find solutions that address the housing crisis without jeopardizing the local economy.

Supporters of Bill 9, including members of the Lahaina Community Land Trust, argued that the bill is necessary to reclaim housing for local residents. They highlighted the disparity between the needs of the community and the interests of STR owners, asserting that the current system prioritizes profit over the well-being of residents.

The committee heard from various stakeholders, including small business owners and community activists, who voiced concerns about the potential economic fallout from the bill. Many argued that the loss of STRs could lead to job losses and negatively impact local businesses that depend on tourism.

As the meeting concluded, the committee faced the challenge of balancing the urgent need for affordable housing with the economic realities of a community heavily reliant on tourism. The discussions underscored the complexity of the housing crisis in Maui and the need for thoughtful, inclusive solutions that consider the diverse needs of all residents. The committee is expected to continue deliberating on Bill 9 and its implications for the future of housing in Maui County.