Maui's future drinking water supply is on the agenda as the County's Department of Water Supply (DWS) gears up for a series of community meetings throughout May, aiming to gather input and offer information to residents. In a collaborative effort with the US Water Alliance, an established national nonprofit, the DWS will host six in-person, open-house styled events offering food, refreshments, and a chance for attendees to engage in family-friendly activities, with the added incentive of a raffle for up to 20 gift cards.
The forums will span the island, touching down in areas including Lahaina and Kīhei. The organizers highlight the importance of community participation in shaping the water strategies for future generations. This initiative reflects a growing trend of localized engagement in the infrastructural decision-making process. Residents are encouraged to learn about prospective water supply options, articulate their visions for the island's hydro-future, and foster community connections in the process.
Beyond these gatherings, the Department of Water Supply also held an online precursor event last Thursday, April 24, facilitated by the US Water Alliance, where staff fielded questions and documented the priorities expressed by participants, a digital format allowed for broader access and paved the way for the forthcoming localized discussions. All interested parties can request the recording through email, keeping the lines of dialogue open in both virtual and physical spaces.
For those looking to attend, the community meetings' details are readily available on Maui County's official webpage, featuring scheduled dates and venues spanning from May 5 to May 13, the intention is to create multiple opportunities for resident participation and input, ensuring a diverse cross-section of the community can voice their concerns and contribute to Maui's water roadmap.
The Department of Water Supply continues to prioritize transparency and inclusivity, extending open invitations to these events and offering additional information via their website. Those seeking more specifics on the meetings or general knowledge about the DWS can direct their inquiries to the provided email addresses or visit the County's official water portal.
