HONOLULU (KHON2) — Maui Mayor Mike Victorino announced on Thursday, May 20, that he is seeking to acquire about 545 acres in the Waiale area of Wailuku for a historic cultural preserve.
Mayor Victorino’s administration is negotiating a purchase from A&B Properties.
The area was originally intended to build housing and affordable rental units for working families in Maui.
The principal archaeologist for Maui County, Janet Six, recommended a change to the intended use for the land after confirming evidence of ancestral remains on the property.
Mayor Victorino says the best use for the land is to dedicate it to preservation.
“After listening to the community, I’ve concluded the best use for this ‘aina (land) is to dedicate it to the preservation and perpetuation of its cultural significance. I’ve since asked members of Malama Kakanilua to lead a working group to advise the County on appropriate land uses for the benefit our community. Maui County residents can rest assured this will not deter us from acquiring other lands to develop attainable housing for our working people.”
Maui Mayor Mike Victorino
