The County of Maui last week announced that the update of the West Maui Community Plan is underway.

A West Maui Community Plan Open House is slated for Saturday, Aug. 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (drop by any time) at the West Maui Senior Center located along Lahainaluna Road at 788 Pauoa St.

At this event, residents can learn about the community planning process, discuss issues affecting West Maui, review maps and information, and meet the project team.

“We need to hear from you since YOU know your community best! Share your vision for the community,” noted a county Department of Planning flyer for the event.

“We want your feedback. Your input will help shape the West Maui Community Plan.”

Having experienced community and Maui County General Plan reviews, I’m not sure if the goal is to incorporate the wisdom and needs of island residents, or to simply pencil in projects for developers.

If the county wants to truly plan for the future of West Maui, planners need to know some basic facts: 1) Traffic is terrible; 2) Millions of gallons of treated sewage shouldn’t be injected into the ground within sight of the ocean in Honokowai; 3) The proposed Kaanapali Golf Courses Revitalization will likely ruin Kaanapali Resort; 4) Coastal erosion is getting worse; and 5) Truly affordable homes (not $400,000!) and rentals in West Maui are scarce.

Many West Maui residents have called for a moratorium on building anything but affordable housing until roads and other elements of the infrastructure are improved. This is unlikely, but it would be irresponsible for the county to approve projects that will escalate existing problems.

What are your concerns? Be sure to inform the county during this important plan update.

For information, call 270-7214 or e-mail wearewestmaui@mauicounty.gov.