The sale to investors allows the company to focus on its core utility business and legislative agenda in response to the Maui wildfires.

A proposed wildfire settlement fund tops the utility’s legislative agenda for 2025.

The same day flames tore through Lahaina in 2023, another fire in Kula caused millions of dollars in damage. The recovery effort there has been quiet but intense.

Living without immediate neighbors can be creepy and lonesome, but the owners of the famed red-roofed house are determined to help bring their community back.

“This is workable but it’s only the beginning,” one advocate said as the Legislature prepares to consider the details.

The federally funded initiative run by Maui Economic Opportunity employed hundreds and was to last two years. The nonprofit’s CEO announced this month that it would end early.

Front Street property owners are anxious and angry that Maui County seems to be stalling on granting permits that would allow them to rebuild their homes and businesses.

Utility does not dispute earlier findings its equipment started the fire that destroyed much of Lahaina in 2023.

The money is slated for long-term housing programs but the county is also in line to receive millions more for jobs, small business loans and rebuilding efforts.

Growing enrollment and providing mental health services remain a top priority for schools, although teachers believe students are better positioned to learn this year.