Mayor Richard Bissen announced on May 18 a Memorandum of Understanding with Maui Land & Pineapple Company Inc. to acquire its West Maui water infrastructure. This agreement is described as the first phase in a broader plan that would also secure additional private water systems in Olowalu and Launiupoko, increasing public stewardship of West Maui’s drinking water systems from 45% to 93%.
The initiative aims to place more control over local water resources into public hands, which officials say will support housing development and improve long-term management for future generations. Mayor Bissen said, “This monumental move by County government to acquire private water systems represents our commitment to long-term water stewardship for future generations.” He added, “Transitioning Maui Nui water resources to the public trust strengthens the County’s ability to improve water resiliency and support critical affordable housing projects, traditional and cultural practices, emergency response, agriculture needs and environmental protection. This MOU caps a year of negotiations with MLP, and we appreciate their willingness to engage and work collaboratively toward solutions that provide long-term public benefit.”
The Memorandum of Understanding establishes a framework for the County’s acquisition of not only MLP’s West Maui system but also select Upcountry infrastructure and other assets. The transition includes significant assets such as the Honokōhau Ditch System; a ground lease for the Puʻu Kukui Watershed preserve; multiple aquifer wells in Kahana, Honokahua, and Mailepai; a proposed large reservoir site; Kahana Pump Station; an existing Upcountry well in Piʻiholo; land for new well sites; storage facilities; as well as non-water assets like parcels designated for police and fire stations.
MLP CEO Race Randle said, “It’s our honor to collaborate with the County on this historic milestone – strengthening water and housing security for current and future generations. Maui County continues to demonstrate a holistic understanding of all elements of a water system – from critical watersheds to our streams, aquifers and wells.”
The purchase price will be determined through formal appraisals by the County. Final terms are still under negotiation pending approval by the Maui County Council.
Bissen noted earlier this year that negotiations are ongoing with other entities including Kamehameha Schools and West Maui Land regarding key regional irrigation companies. If successful, these efforts would shift overall public ownership of West Maui’s drinking and irrigation systems from 25% up to 65%, while specifically raising drinking system stewardship from 45% up to 93%. “My administration is committed to long-term stewardship, responsible planning and protecting Maui County’s future,” Bissen said. “Water security and resiliency are foundational to a strong and sustainable community. This monumental step with MLP demonstrates what can happen when organizations come together around shared community priorities.”
