David Y. Ige

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MAUI – Gov. David Ige signed SB 2293 at a bill signing ceremony on Maui, that aims to create more affordable housing on the Valley Isle, while keeping existing apartments affordable.

The new law enables the state to preserve the affordable rentals at the Front Street Apartments by requiring the Hawai‘i Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) to begin the process of condemning the ground lease.

The new law also appropriates $250,000 for an appraisal and other preparations to start condemnation proceedings, provided Maui County makes matching funds available.

And finally – the law appropriates $30 million from the Rental Housing Revolving Fund to expedite the development of 200 multi-family rental units at the Keawe Street Apartments at the Villages of Lealii in Lahaina. The HHFDC board of directors has already taken steps to enable the state to move quickly on the Keawe Street Apartments, approving $5 million in pre-development funds.

The Keawe Street Apartments is expected to be completed by 2021.

“This new law is a great example of how the state and the counties are working together to preserve and increase housing opportunities for the people of Maui and our residents across the state,” said Gov. Ige.

“This measure helps to preserve much-needed affordable rental housing in Lahaina, and I want to thank all those who worked on its passage. I also want to thank the governor for signing it in Lahaina with so many of the advocates in attendance,” said Sen. Rosalyn Baker

“This is a historic first step in not only saving the Front Street apartments as affordable rentals but in creating much-needed affordable housing now for West Maui families,” Rep. Angus McKelvey.

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Media Contacts:
Jodi Leong
Deputy Communications Director/Press Secretary
Office of the Governor
Office: 808-586-0043
Mobile: 808-798-3929
[email protected]

Cindy McMillan
Communications Director
Office of the Governor
Office: 808-586-0012
Mobile: 808-265-7974
[email protected]