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“This is workable but it’s only the beginning,” one advocate said as the Legislature prepares to consider the details.

The federally funded initiative run by Maui Economic Opportunity employed hundreds and was to last two years. The nonprofit’s CEO announced this month that it would end early.

Front Street property owners are anxious and angry that Maui County seems to be stalling on granting permits that would allow them to rebuild their homes and businesses.

Utility does not dispute earlier findings its equipment started the fire that destroyed much of Lahaina in 2023.

The money is slated for long-term housing programs but the county is also in line to receive millions more for jobs, small business loans and rebuilding efforts.

Growing enrollment and providing mental health services remain a top priority for schools, although teachers believe students are better positioned to learn this year.

The state introduced plans to provide affordable housing to West Maui teachers in 2022, but limited funding and the wildfires halted progress.

FEMA officials said they didn’t want their housing program for survivors of Maui’s 2023 wildfires to displace any residents. But they didn’t bar the agency’s contractors from leasing properties previously occupied by long-term tenants.

The rent will be covered for the first few months by continued emergency assistance, but tenants must begin paying in March.

Many residents are excited about the economic boost the tournament will bring. But concerns also are high that visitors might show disrespect.