Maui County - made up of the islands of Maui, Lana’i, and Moloka’i- with its breathtaking vistas and vibrant culture, has always been a place of beauty and serenity that attracts visitors from around the world. Perhaps because of that beauty, the County has some of the most valuable and expensive real estate, and like many other places a corresponding challenge related to affordable housing and homelessness. Koné Consulting is currently teaming with ECONorthwest and a local partner Munekiyo Hiraga on a project in Maui County to assess the current system of homelessness services and recommend improvements. In June I traveled to these stunning islands to complete a site visit that was originally planned for last year. The unexpected and devastating fires last August forced us to cancel our original site visit and pause our efforts. It wasn't until last month that we could finally return and resume our project, marking a significant moment of renewal and resilience for the County.

Maui's natural beauty is enchanting. From the serene beaches and crystal-clear waters to the vibrant local culture, every corner of the island offers a postcard-perfect view. The island of Maui is known for its windy beaches where world class windsurfers and kiteboards practice their craft, and its resorts, and scenic byways like the Road to Hana. Lana’i, the smallest inhabited island in Hawaii and a former pineapple plantation, is 98% owned by Larry Ellison, the co-founder and chairman of Oracle. It is home to two exclusive Four Seasons Resort hotels both owned by Ellison. Finally, there is Moloka’i, a rural island with an agrarian-based economy, where you’re less likely to see tourists than cattle.

Emergency tent camp for single unhoused people.

Returning to Maui County in June to resume our project was both uplifting and heart-wrenching. We were greeted warmly by community members on all three islands, and it was encouraging to see the resilience of the community on Maui in the face of the devastating wildfires. It was incredibly rewarding to connect with some of the people who had lived through the fires and to learn a little more about the trauma and how they are persevering and continuing to move forward despite what they have experienced.

Reflecting on this journey, I am humbled by what I learned. I am reminded of the importance and power of empathetic listening, even when it’s difficult to hear another person’s experience. I am also reminded of the importance of community, and the importance of giving each person the agency to define “community” in a way that works for them. I’m also reminded of the wisdom of indigenous/native cultures and the importance of not just looking to the future for solutions, but also looking towards our past. One example of that is Governor Josh Green’s statewide approach to homelessness and housing solutions, which includes the idea of Kauhale or communal living spaces with shared bathrooms and kitchen facilities. “Kauhale” in Native Hawaiian literally means “a group of houses,” and it represents an integral part of the ohana (family system) and the ancient ahupua’a system.

Site visit team from left to right: Hoku Krueger (Munekiyo Hiraga), Alicia Koné, Sam Tedford (ECONorthwest), Cynthia Sato (Munekiyo Hiraga), and Cadence Petros (ECONorthwest)

Our trip, though initially marked by unexpected challenges, turned into a profound experience of hope and resilience. As we look to the future, we remain committed to supporting Maui County. If you are planning a visit to Maui, be mindful of the healing process that the people there are still going through. You may appreciate the island and the residents, not just for its stunning beauty and their welcoming customer service, but because you are witnessing firsthand the remarkable spirit of its people.

Koné Consulting
CELEBRATING 14 YEARS INSPIRING CHANGE
AND LASTING IMPROVEMENTS

Follow us on our Facebook, Twitter and LinkdIn.

Maui County Site Visit