Newly formed East Maui Water Authority faces resistance from 'overt and behind the scenes methods.'
There's agreement that the cost of water to users would rise but by how much is up for debate.
The Kohala Ditch was built in the early 1900s to water sugarcane fields, then it fed ranches and small farmers' operations. But it has languished since breaking in 2021.
Former Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa, who had opposed the authority's creation, was unsuccessful in his bid for the leadership role.
A $3.2 million federal grant is funding the center.
The county worked with an engineering consultant to develop 19 recommendations as part of a broader long-term plan that the public can now weigh in on.
The deputy water commissioner told one state lawmaker he didn't want to be 'an obstacle.' But he's not commenting publicly.
Peter Martin spent decades guzzling water around Lahaina. Then came the fire.
The vote came after months of community outreach by the Board of Water Supply in a bid to prepare customers in advance.
The state panel heard passionate testimony from Lahaina residents and many others during its first meeting on the island since the Aug. 8 tragedy.