Maui County officials are tackling the complex landscape of federal grant applications and disaster recovery strategies during a recent planning committee meeting. The discussion highlighted the challenges of navigating the cumbersome grant application process, with a focus on aligning projects with specific funding eligibility requirements.

Kim from Stantec provided insights into the current approach, emphasizing that the team is not prioritizing federal grants at this stage. Instead, they are meticulously reviewing potential projects to determine which align best with available funding sources. “It’s really about which project is most aligned with that grant program,” she explained, underscoring the need for a strategic fit rather than a simple prioritization of grants.

In addition to grant discussions, the committee explored the West Maui Greenway strategy, which aims to integrate green spaces with urban planning to mitigate risks associated with wildfires and flooding. Officials are considering innovative solutions, such as enhancing vegetation in watershed areas to improve water absorption and flood management. “What if we could add a lot more vegetation on the mountain?” one member posed, highlighting the dual benefits of environmental protection and food production.

The conversation also touched on collaboration with large landowners and other agencies to create sustainable food sources within existing facilities, promoting a holistic approach to community needs. “Breaking down silos” among departments was emphasized as crucial for achieving these goals.

As Maui County navigates these multifaceted challenges, the focus remains on strategic planning and community collaboration to ensure effective disaster recovery and sustainable development. The next steps will involve further discussions on project prioritization and the integration of environmental strategies into urban planning.