Maui County residents will have an opportunity to hear directly from their leader next month as Mayor Richard T. Bissen Jr. Delivers the 2026 State of the County Address. The address, scheduled for Thursday, March 5th, at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center’s Castle Theater, will focus on the county’s progress in key areas including housing, economic stability and recovery efforts following the devastating 2023 wildfires. This State of the County address is a crucial moment for the community to understand the direction of Maui County and the priorities for the year ahead.
Doors to the Castle Theater will open at 4 p.m., with the address itself running from 5 to 7 p.m. Admission and parking are free, making the event accessible to all residents. For those unable to attend in person, the address will be broadcast live on AKAKŪ Maui Community Media Channel 53 and livestreamed on the County of Maui’s Facebook page. Recordings will also be available on the county website (www.mauicounty.gov), YouTube (www.youtube.com/@countyofmaui), and Akaku.org (www.Akaku.org). An RSVP is requested, but not required, for those planning to attend in person.
Prioritizing Housing and Wildfire Recovery
Mayor Bissen’s address will center on the county’s ongoing efforts to address critical challenges facing the community. A primary focus will be on advancing solutions to Maui’s housing crisis, with a particular emphasis on keeping local families in their communities – a concept known as kamaʻāina housing. This commitment comes as Maui County continues to grapple with affordability and availability issues, exacerbated by the economic impacts of the 2023 wildfires.
The recovery from those wildfires will also be a central theme. According to information released by the county, recovery efforts will prioritize housing stability, infrastructure rebuilding, and a community-led approach to reconstruction. Mayor Bissen played a pivotal role in securing $1.6 billion in federal disaster relief for housing and infrastructure following the fires, and the address will likely detail how those funds are being allocated and utilized.
Investing in Community Well-being and Economic Growth
Beyond housing and recovery, Mayor Bissen is expected to outline initiatives aimed at bolstering the overall well-being of Maui County residents. These include investments in mental health services, support for families, programs for seniors (kūpuna), and opportunities for youth. The administration’s commitment to strengthening the “everyday fabric of community life” will also be highlighted, including the successful return of the Maui County Fair.
Economic development will be another key area of focus. The Mayor plans to emphasize support for local businesses, the creation of workforce pathways, and a balanced approach to tourism – recognizing the importance of the visitor industry although prioritizing sustainable practices. Protecting Maui’s unique cultural and natural resources through mālama ʻāina (caring for the land) and sustainable stewardship will also be a priority, aligning with the administration’s commitment to preserving the island’s heritage.
A Lifelong Resident’s Vision for Maui
Richard T. Bissen Jr. Brings over three decades of public service to the role of Mayor, having previously served as the Chief Judge of the Second Circuit Court. His biography details a lifelong connection to Maui Nui and a dedication to community-centered leadership. His approach is guided by the philosophy of kuleana – shared responsibility – and a deep understanding of the island’s cultural values.
The 2026 State of the County Address represents an important opportunity for Mayor Bissen to articulate his vision for Maui County’s future and to engage with residents on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The event will provide a platform to discuss progress made, outline future priorities, and reaffirm the county’s commitment to building a resilient and thriving community.
Following the address, residents can locate more information and stay updated on county initiatives through the official website, www.mauicounty.gov, and by contacting the County of Maui Office of the Mayor at (808) 270-7855. The next key date for residents to mark is March 5th, when Mayor Bissen will present a comprehensive overview of the county’s direction and priorities for the coming year.
We encourage readers to share their thoughts and reactions to the State of the County Address in the comments below.
