As a bed-and-breakfast owner who has had his permit pending for seven years now, I have ignored the edicts of our soon-to-be one-term mayor and kept my employees hired, paid my GE/TAT taxes and contributed to the north shore economy whenever I can.
One way I have continued to be a good citizen is by offering discounted stays to local schoolteachers for those times where they want to get away from the tough job of teaching our children. I also — as do many other vacation owners — offer accommodations in silent auctions for charities. I have done it a number of times and have helped raise money for many Maui charities.
If you are associated with a charity and are looking to raise money, this is a great source of money. These owners are eager to prove that they are good citizens and are very accommodating when it comes to offering rooms for silent auctions.
The Maui Vacation Rental Association is in the process of putting together a list of vacation rental owners who are eager to contribute in this way. The MVRA Web site will soon have a window where charities can enter their name and number and contact info so willing vacation rental owners will have a way of contacting them.
Regardless of what actions the mayor takes, the MVRA will continue to be active in the local community, contributing to the better welfare of all Mauians.
Gabriel Garcia
Haiku
