Gary Ambrose

The primary discussion centered on the Department's Policy Prohibiting Issuing Temporary Meters on Fire Hydrants, specifically addressing whether temporary meters could be used for dust control, which staff explained is currently restricted due to ongoing issues related to HB 1326 and the West Maui Well #2 development timeline. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the implications of HB 1326 status, where staff detailed potential water shortage scenarios for Upcountry if water is not diverted into the Wailoa Ditch, highlighting the high costs associated with using alternative groundwater sources like Hamakuapoko wells. The board also discussed developing a strategy to engage with private water purveyors to obtain a clearer understanding of their water systems and needs, possibly via a standardized questionnaire. Other topics included a brief continuation of the overview of the Department of Water Supply, presentations on anti-discrimination and workplace violence policies for new board members, and a note regarding Kahoma Stream maintenance.

The primary discussion centered on a public hearing regarding a Bill for Ordinance proposing amendments to Title 19 of the Maui County Code to cap transient accommodation units in certain districts, remove transient accommodations as a permitted use in specified zones, and limit the size of transient accommodations in the B-2 Community Business District. The proposal also included amendments concerning the temporary parking of camper vans and recreational vehicles used for transient accommodations, and limiting timeshare plans. The Planning Director presented background information on the proposal, noting its consistency with long-term plans regarding the encouragement of diverse accommodations, though some current plans supported expansion. Public testimony included input from the Hawaii Hotel Alliance and residents expressing concerns that permanent caps in hotel districts contradict community plans encouraging accommodation variety, while also supporting limitations in residential areas. Council Vice-Chair Keani Rawlins-Fernandez, the bill's author, explained that the legislation aims to manage tourism via land use control since travel restriction is beyond County authority. The discussion clarified definitions, noting that the proposed bill largely affects apartment and business districts rather than existing Short-Term Rental Homes (STRHs) or Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs). A representative for hotel owners testified in opposition to caps in the Hotel District, arguing for visitor growth in historically designated visitor areas.

The primary focus of the meeting was the design review for the Paia Commercial Building project, proposed by Mr. Joshua Stone, located at 151 Hana Highway. The applicant detailed the history of the property, which previously housed temporary structures (Paia Courtyard Market), and presented plans for a new 3,186 square foot single-story commercial building, provisionally named the "Big Wave Building." Key discussion points included the building's footprint, parking layout (six stalls), exterior materials (T1-11 siding, stucco, corrugated metal canopy), color palette, site structures, drainage plan, and landscaping. Board members raised specific questions regarding traffic maneuverability exiting the driveway, potential for green building certification, air conditioning plans, roof pitch consistency with design guidelines, and the potential messiness of proposed fern trees. The Board ultimately voted to forward recommendations to the Planning Director concerning the fern trees, consideration of front facade seating/planters, adjusting the roof pitch to four and twelve, and incorporating additional sustainable design elements.

The meeting involved amending the agenda to include discussion on the Salary Commission meeting and the Meeting Schedule under New Business. The commission accepted and filed four letters of commendation issued during December. The Chief of Police provided a report focusing on recent assaults in Maui County, addressing public concern regarding negative newspaper opinions and emphasizing that proactive operations reduce crime rates. Reports were also given by the heads of the Uniformed Services Bureau, Investigative Services Bureau, and Support Services Bureau. Financial updates noted remaining appropriations for FY 2009 and current personnel vacancies, including a change in the hiring process for sworn personnel. New business covered the status of an investigator contract and the decision to interview and hire a second investigator, forming a sub-committee for interviews. The commission discussed attendance for the May 2009 Police Commission Conference. In Executive Session, the commission ratified the actions taken, including approving legal representation for the Police Chief, Deputy Chief, and one Police Officer in a civil case, and denying investigations for two complaints (PC 08-13 and MPC 09-01) based on commission rules. The commission also discussed the Salary Commission update regarding raises for the Chief of Police and Deputy Chief.

The primary focus of the hearing before the board concerns Complaint and Accusation No. 2019-31 against WAI GROUP LLC dba WAI BAR (Dispenser General License No. 174). The accusation details six specific counts related to alleged violations on May 25, 2018. These violations include failing to ensure clear walkways, allowing liquor consumption in areas designated for dancing, failure to remove empty glasses before serving new drinks, smoking in front of the premises contrary to HRS Section 328J-3(4), permitting dancing in unapproved areas, and failing to maintain a three-foot walkway around the dance floor.