Letters to the Editor

Not too early to think about Maui’s direction

In the heat of this COVID-19 pandemic crisis, we must emphasize protecting the immediate health and economic security of the Maui Nui community. However, it's not too early to think about the direction in which our community will emerge from this crisis.

Is the best outcome for Maui to return to 3 million-plus annual visitors, traffic jams, degraded reefs and forests, an undiversified economy of low paying jobs and limited affordable housing?

Or does this crisis present a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to envision and implement a healthier future for the people of Maui and the aina?

Reputable economic studies have shown that the State of Hawaii, including Maui, over the last decade has been exceeding the tourism levels that are desirable.

More tourism is having little if any beneficial effect on wage levels.

It is about time we had a serious public discussion about limits to growth, the environmental effects of tourism and sustainable development.

I don't have the answers, but there are many talented people on Maui who can find them. Community leaders, please come together now, and start working on a "restart plan" for a more sustainable Maui Nui. This is our kuleana.

Pat Gotschalk

Waikapu