In perhaps the largest community effort ever seen in West Maui, passionate residents first halted development plans at Lipoa Point overlooking Honolua Bay in 2007, then convinced the state to purchase the area in 2013 to protect it for future generations.

It was accomplished by the Save Honolua Coalition, State Rep. Angus McKelvey and Sen. Roz Baker, surfer Les Potts, County Councilwoman Elle Cochran, Ocean Safety Officer Tamara Paltin and many more community activists of all ages who attended meetings and lobbied for protection of the lands surrounding one of the best waves in the world.

Now that the lands around the bay are safe, the next step is to chart the future of the area.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) will hold a community open house on Wednesday, Nov. 8, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the West Maui Senior Center at 788 Pauoa St. along Lahainaluna Road.

Visit the open house at any time that evening, walk around, look at the exhibits and contribute ideas at your own pace.

DLNR reported that the input received through the open house will be considered during the preparation of a management plan for the Lipoa Point area.

When funds for developing the plan were released, McKelvey told the Lahaina News: “I’m confident a roadmap towards creating a process for a truly representative community plan can be achieved.”

One bay stakeholder, the Hawaiian Islands Land Trust, noted, “We look forward to working with our partners on building a management plan and funding future protection activities on the property.”

What is your vision for Honolua Bay? Attend the open house and voice your views.