The Maui County Council meeting on July 25, 2025, focused on the potential use of $5 million in managed retreat funds for land acquisition in Lahaina. This funding, previously dedicated to the Lahaina Community Land Trust (LCLT) by ordinance, aims to assist families affected by shoreline issues, particularly those who may face barriers to rebuilding after recent fires.

LCLT representatives highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that the organization currently manages eight community-owned parcels, with two under contract and four recorded easements. They expressed gratitude for the council's support in dedicating these funds, emphasizing the importance of preserving the cultural and familial connections to the land.

The proposed funding would prioritize the acquisition of properties owned by generational families along the Lahaina shoreline. The LCLT aims to prevent these families from needing to sell their land by assisting them with necessary paperwork and other support. If selling becomes the only option, the LCLT plans to purchase the parcels and implement conservation and cultural access easements to protect the families' relationship with the land.

The urgency of the funding request stems from the need to act quickly when families decide to sell, as market conditions can change rapidly. The LCLT stressed that the managed retreat funds should not be used as a buyout program for families delaying decisions but rather reserved for situations where no other funding sources are available.

The council is currently evaluating the best approach to utilize these funds, considering other potential funding options from state or federal programs. Ongoing communication with various departments, including the Department of Planning and the Office of Recovery, is crucial as they weigh the needs of prioritized families against other shoreline properties that may require attention.

The outcome of this discussion could significantly impact the future of Lahaina's shoreline communities and the preservation of their cultural heritage.