Aloha kākou,
In 2022, together with our community, Maui Tomorrow worked hard to build support to pass the charter amendment establishing Maui Community Water Authorities. We were successful with that effort, and this week we can help our actions take root.
Tomorrow, April 18th at 9:00am, the Budget, Finance, and Economic Development Committee of the Maui County Council will be considering budget allocations for the 2024 Fiscal Year, which begins July 1st, just a few months from now.
Suggested Budget Recommendations for the Maui Community Water Authorities:
- Include funding to support 10 full months of Water Authority director salary
- Amend the proposed Administrative Assistant position description to serve both the Director as well as the East Maui Regional Board, which is currently in the process of formation
- Include funds to hire Professional Services for:
- An engineering analysis of the system
- A financial plan and business model
- Provide an overview of available grants and other municipal funding options
The meeting agenda is here. You wonʻt see Maui County Water Authority mentioned, but it is time to show up and ask for adequate funding to be set aside for the new Maui Community Water Authority in Fiscal Year 2024 to ensure it is given the chance to be firmly established and can succeed.
Will you join us, and let our representatives on Council know that this is a priority for our community?
Please send online written testimony today, or plan to testify tomorrow morning:
BUDGET, FINANCE, AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Tuesday, April 18, 9:00 am
Council Chamber, Kalana O Maui Building, 8th Floor
200 South High Street, Wailuku
HOW TO TESTIFY:
- You can submit written testimony here;
- When itʻs time to testify online, click here to open the BlueJeans app and access the meeting
Our Community Water Authority has the potential to transform the way we manage our water delivery systems, mālama our water resources and mauka to makai watersheds, and incorporate communities into decision making. Please let our County Council know it is essential for us to get this new department up and running as soon as possible, and that it should be given the resources it needs to succeed.
Mahalo for protecting Mauiʻs water future!
