Q&A from 7/24/24 Lahaina Community Meeting

Q: Can homeowners with cleared lots host temporary housing units on their properties?

A: Yes, there is discussion at the state level about allowing homeowners to host temporary

housing units on their cleared properties. Homeowners need to consider if their property is large

enough for a temporary housing unit while constructing a permanent home. Residents should

apply to the Hawaii Interim Housing Program if they are not eligible for FEMA assistance.

Q: How long does it take to hear back after applying for the Hawaiʻi Interim Housing Program?

A: It typically takes 5-7 days to get information back after applying for the program.

Q: Are people eligible for FEMA assistance ineligible for the Hawaiʻi Interim Housing

Program?

A: No, residents should still apply for the Hawaiʻi Interim Housing Program even if they are

eligible for FEMA assistance, as the programs can be used in conjunction.

Q: What is the maximum number of people in one family that can be placed in the Hawaiʻi

Interim Housing units?

A: There is no limit on the number of people in a family that can be placed. The units range

from studios to three bedrooms to accommodate different family sizes. Accommodations can be discussed on a case-by-case basis.

Q: How long will the no-cost rent period last for the Hawaii Interim Housing units?

A: The governor has committed to no rent until August 2025, although it may be structured as a rolling one-year period, depending on when residents move in.

Q: When will 505 Front Street (the former parking garage) be dewatered?

A: The demolition plan for this property is complicated due to the spring water and debris. As such, the Army Corp of Engineers has submitted a plan and anticipates to begin this process

soon.

Q: What is the status of the building permit approval process in Lahaina, and why are there

delays?

A: 4LEAF has stated that they are reviewing plans within 10 business days and have

approved 42 permits out of 89 submitted so far. The county is enforcing the 2018 International

Building Code and is encouraging residents to provide specific examples of delays or issues so

that they can be addressed.

Q: How will the closure of Lahainaluna Road at Mill Street affect back-to-school traffic?

A: Due to concerns regarding the structural integrity of the smokestack, the county’s ability

to provide access to Lahainaluna Road is impacted. The connection via the Lahaina Bypass is the

only option at this time. Alternative routes are being determined.

Q: Will the one building at King Kamehameha III Elementary School remain intact?

A: Yes. The building and the two trees will remain on-site.

Q: Why are residents being told to drive around the checkpoint to the Bypass Road?

A: The county will investigate the reason.

Q: Why are there delays with the Kahoma Village (workforce housing).

A: The county stated that the issue is a legal matter outside the scope of the Planning Department. They are exploring innovative solutions to fulfill the unmet conditions from the

homes' original construction. Details can be discussed at an upcoming Homeowner Association

meeting.

Q: What is the recertification process for the direct lease program?

A: This is a monthly visit by the advisor. They will inquire about your permanent housing

plan. This includes looking for rentals, saving for a deposit or other actions showing progress

towards their individual housing plan. If unable to match to a direct lease unit, the household will remain in a hotel.

Q: How do residents remove dead mango trees near their properties?

A: Residents were encouraged to contact information for the Army Corps of Engineers Help Desk for assistance: (877) 214-9117.

Q: Is there a new code regarding setbacks for rebuilding?

A: This depends on the zoning for your property. Residents can contact the zoning office at (808) 270-7253 with any questions.