I feel strongly that FEMA and our local officials are letting Lahaina fire survivors down.

The more people I talk with, the more people know of this situation.

It is the fact that there are many homeowners who graciously due to community love have offered a rental property to the program to house those affected by the Aug. 8 fire.

Unfortunately, there are far too many vacant homes that the owners are collecting monthly rent in the thousands of dollars.

How is it possible, that homeowners are taking our tax dollars on a rental that FEMA can’t find an occupant for?

I was in long-term property management for years here on Maui. I know how to find potential tenants. I know how to screen and vet potential tenants.

Something vastly wrong with a system, especially with so many still seeking a home, that allows owners to be paid while their dwelling sits vacant.

Can these owners refuse to be paid until FEMA finds an occupant? If so, why collect the money? Is it mandatory or they’re dropped out of the program?

Who is screening for applicants? Are there local property managers working for FEMA?

What/who determined the rental rate? How are locals to manage rent of $5,000-plus a month after government subsidy ceases?

What is wrong with a government and the people who continue this mishandling of a tragic situation? Someone in charge has to stop this bottomless flow of our tax dollars for absolutely zero help to those who really need it.

Pamela Alexander

Wailuku