New Maui council supermajority could reshape tourism, development

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Newly elected members to the Maui County Council could bring a significant shift in policy regarding development and tourism.

Longtime political analyst Dick Mayer said the election shifts the makeup of the nine-member council from a 5-4 majority favoring development to a 6-3 progressive split, bolstered by newcomers and a familiar face.

“Six is a very important number because it’s a supermajority. They can override vetoes of the mayor, so I think we will probably see many actions taken,” Mayer said.

Mayer noted that the full extent of changes in council decision-making remains to be seen.

Newcomers include kalo farmer Bobby Pahia and former airport manager Marvin Moniz. Former council member Kelly King also reclaimed the South Maui seat she previously held, defeating incumbent Tom Cook.

“I think people knew it would be very close because the last time they ran against each other, Kelly King lost by fewer than 100 votes,” Mayer said.

Tourism cap and growth restrictions

Mayer predicts the new majority could push to curb new development and cap tourism.

“I think the mood on Maui has changed the last several years toward being anti-development, anti-overdevelopment,” Mayer said. “Personally, I feel that this is going to allow Maui to get back on a stronger economic foundation by not being so dependent on one industry: the tourism industry.”

Visitor industry leaders, however, argue that tourism remains essential to the island’s recovery.

“I don’t think we’re too reliant. I think we have done what is necessary to keep our economy alive and thriving,” said Naomi Cooper with the Maui Hotel and Lodging Association.

Industry calls for collaboration

Cooper noted there have already been efforts to balance the visitor sector through initiatives such as agritourism. She hopes the county’s new leaders will embrace those changes rather than imposing more regulations on the industry.

“I do, yes, have concerns. The association has concerns. However, we’re very open-minded, and we think that leaders are going to be just as receptive as we are to them,” Cooper said.

Under the Maui County Charter, the new council members take office on Jan. 2.