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Before suggesting any amendments for the community plan, thereby avoiding consequences for wrongdoing, it would be honorable and beneficial to right the wrongs committed instead.
Hawaii Supreme Court ruled against Maui Planning Commission and Stanford Carr Development in June 2021, giving ample time to resolve the intervenor's issues before the community plan's finalization in January 2022.
Mayor Michael Victorino didn't sign the West Maui Community Plan because it "could jeopardize the property rights of Kahoma Village residents."
Voting with reservations, Maui County Council Chairperson Alice Lee worried what would happen to homeowners if they wanted to make improvements to their properties, as their homes would not be in compliance.
Those sentiments suggest it's the community plan's fault and portrays owners as victims. Hawaii Supreme Court invalidated the permits for Kahoma Village. Residents and investors signed contracts with full disclosure of its pending lawsuit.
Victorino expressed concern over counsel's lack of signature. However, Corporation Counsel had its chance to assist the County Council with appropriate language in the community plan to ensure justice for both Kahoma Village owners and the citizen group who won in court.
Even though Kahoma Village resulted in irreparable damage, there are ways to make things right. For instance, compensate for the desecration of this historical site and Lahaina's loss of public park.
Build housing for families who missed their chance of homeownership due to lengthy court proceedings and ensure Kahoma Village subdivision attains legal status.
Accept responsibility for transgressions. Resolve everyone's concerns. Do what is right.
Michele Lincoln
Lahaina