Budget update (first reading) – May 16
Based on public testimony received over the course of more than 20 meetings, consultation with department heads and lengthy deliberations and debate, the council at first reading on May 16 settled on an increase of just over $46 million over the mayor’s budget proposal. But that amount includes the real property tax shortfall of $7 million and $14 million for Līpoa Apartments for a net of $25 million.
The council’s consensus was to make new community investments in:
- Maui United Way Countywide ALICE Initiative ($12 million)
- Employee healthcare benefits ($10 million)
- COVID hazard pay for firefighters ($5.4 million)
- Līpoa Apartments affordable housing ($14 million increase for a total of $25 million)
The council reduced the mayor’s proposal to add back funding for positions removed in fiscal year 2025 and cut more than a million dollars in capital improvements that were not eliminated but deferred to a later time.
Public testimony, consultation with the administration and lengthy deliberations and debate allowed the council to reach consensus at first reading on May 16, with second and final reading set for June 3.
The council increased the real property tax rates in Tier 3—properties valued at more than $3 million—for the non-owner-occupied and commercialized residential classifications.
The council also recognized more than $17 million in carryover savings from the fiscal year 2025 budget.
Here’s a rundown of the RPT rates:
The budget is the county’s financial plan for the upcoming fiscal year, from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. It determines how each department will use funding to carry out duties and the level and type of rates and fees the county may collect throughout the fiscal year.
The mayor’s Fiscal Year 2026 Budget proposal includes the executive and legislative operating budget for the ensuing fiscal year and capital program. View the operating and capital budget here.
View the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Session calendar below for more information on upcoming meetings and deadlines.
Residency Area Meeting Schedule
Provide testimony at any of the following meetings, with all meetings to start at 6 p.m.:
- April 1, Mayor Hannibal Tavares Community Center, Social Hall, 91 Pukalani St., Makawao
- April 2, Helene Hall, Social Hall, 174 Keawa Pl., Hāna
- April 8, ILWU Hall, 840 Ilima Ave., Lānaʻi City
- April 10, Lahaina Civic Center Social Hall, 1840 Honoapiʻilani Hwy, Lahaina
- April 11, Mitchell Pauʻole Community Center, 90 Ainoa St., Molokai
- April 14, Kīhei Community Center, Main Hall, 303 E. Līpoa St., Kīhei
- April 15, Pāʻia Community Center, Social Hall, 252 Hana Hwy., Pāʻia
How do you want your tax dollars spent?
Please let us know how you feel the fiscal year 2026 budget should be prioritized:
FY2026 Budget Survey
Budget Discussion Schedule by Department (subject to change)
- March 31 – Finance, including Countywide Expenditures and Revenues
- April 1 – Office of the Mayor, Personnel
- April 2 – Police, Corporation Counsel
- April 3 – Parks and Recreation, Water Supply
- April 7 – Fire and Public Safety, Planning
- April 8 – Emergency Management Agency, ʻŌiwi Resources
- April 9 – Department of Management, including Office of Recovery
- April 10 – Human Concerns, Housing
- April 14 – Transportation, Public Works
- April 15 – Environmental Management, Wastewater & Solid Waste incl. EP&S
- April 16 – Agriculture, Council Services
Testimony will be accepted at any of the posted meetings in the Council Chamber throughout the deliberations and decision-making process. Each meeting agenda will be available at MauiCounty.us/agendas and testimony will also be accepted via eComment.
For tips, visit How To Testify.
For special accommodations during any of the meetings, please call 270-7838 at least three days in advance.