Before submitting testimony, it’s important to understand the role of the Planning Commission. Members are volunteer citizens appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the County Council. They advise the Mayor, County Council, and Planning Director, but do not make final decisions. Their recommendation is forwarded to the County Council, which ultimately votes on the measure. At this stage, focus your testimony on respectfully requesting a recommendation to deny the proposal.

UPDATE: Additional hearing scheduled for Tuesday, July 9 (details coming soon).

How to Testify with the Maui Planning Commission

Before submitting testimony, it’s important to understand the role of the Planning Commission. Members are volunteer citizens appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the County Council. They advise the Mayor, County Council, and Planning Director, but do not make final decisions. Their recommendation is forwarded to the County Council, which ultimately votes on the measure. At this stage, focus your testimony on respectfully requesting a recommendation to deny the proposal.

Role of the Planning Commission

• Advises the Mayor, County Council, and Planning Director on planning matters.
• Reviews general plans and amendments and forwards recommendations to the County Council.
• Reviews land use ordinances and proposed amendments after public hearings.
• Acts as the authority on Coastal Zone Management matters.
• Adopts rules pursuant to land use laws and ordinances.

Note: The Planning Commission is separate from the County Council. It provides recommendations but does not pass laws.

For more information, visit the Maui Planning Commission website.

Agenda | Bill | Minatoya Report

Reminder: This bill concerns phasing out STRs on the Minatoya List (A1/A2 zoning). Please reference only this bill in your testimony.

Written Testimony Guidelines

• The agenda is released approximately 7 days before the meeting.
• Testimony can be submitted once the agenda is published.
• Email submissions: [email protected]
• Deadline: 12:00 PM one business day before the meeting.
• Mailing address: Department of Planning, One Main Plaza, 2200 Main Street, Suite 315, Wailuku, HI 96793

Oral Testimony (Virtual)

• Meetings are held via Webex; download the app in advance.
• Join here: Webex Link
• Meeting ID: 2661 310 6605 | Password: MPC1
• You may indicate your intent to testify upon joining.
• Oral testimony is limited to 1–3 minutes.

In-Person Testimony

• Location: Council Chamber, 200 S. High Street, 8th Floor, Wailuku, HI
• Meeting begins at 9:00 AM; arrive by 8:00 AM.
• Parking is limited: consider rideshare, taxi, or carpooling.

Tips for Effective Testimony

• Be concise.
• Include supporting materials if needed.
• Prepare a written summary.
• Be respectful and courteous.
• Offer solutions and stick to facts.
• Clearly state your position at the beginning and end.

Framework for Written Testimony

Subject line: Testimony of [Your Name] Regarding the Phasing Out of Short-Term Rentals in Maui County

Example talking points: Industry Professional | Owner

Do’s & Don’ts

Do:

• Focus on your personal experience.
• Prepare and follow a script.
• Keep comments brief.
• Thank the Council.

Don’t:

• Deviate from your prepared remarks.
• Engage with opposing arguments.
• Use a disrespectful tone.

Preparing Oral Testimony

1. Identify key points: highlight the most important arguments.
2. Keep it concise: aim for 300 words or less.
3. Structure: intro, 2–3 main points, conclusion.
4. Practice: read aloud before presenting.

Oral Testimony Framework | Full PDF