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Shop NowOn Monday, Hawaii Governor Josh Green announced his administration’s plans to acquire properties in Lahaina that were devastated by the recent wildfires.
The governor is taking this action in order to protect the land from foreign buyers looking to exploit those affected by the tragedy.
Trying to take land away from our people before we’ve had a chance to grieve and rebuilt is not pono, and we will not stand for it. pic.twitter.com/gZczd1oLTo
— Governor Josh Green (@GovJoshGreenMD) August 15, 2023
This devastating fire left 99 dead and only 25% of the burn area has been searched thus far, leading many to worry that the death toll could increase.
In addition to losing their homes and loved ones, local residents have had to face developers trying to capitalize on their misfortune.
Tammy Kaililaau was one such person whose home of 20 years was reduced to ashes and received a Facebook message from someone in real estate less than a week later.
John Dimuro, who has lived on Maui for over 40 years and works at Marriott West Maui summed up the sentiment among locals towards large corporations or wealthy individuals buying up land: “The government should just say ‘no you’re not allowed to develop,’” he said on Monday.
Governor Green echoed these sentiments during his press conference and expressed his determination to prevent this tragedy from becoming an opportunity for foreign investors looking for profit off people’s pain.
He intends for state acquisition of land so it can be used as housing for families or open spaces as a memorial.
He also cautioned potential buyers about taking advantage of residents amidst their trauma by saying it would be “a very long time before any growth or housing can be built.”
In response to this situation, Governor Green has taken legal steps such as reaching out to the Attorney General regarding options for a moratorium on sales of property damaged or destroyed in the fire.
He is also discussing with colleagues ways they can create a memorial site dedicated those lost their lives in the blaze.
He concluded with an assurance that “state will take [the land] and preserve it first” rather than allowing foreign investors access first crack at what may become valuable property once rebuilding begins.
