What's Being Discussed

The Kaho'olawe Island Reserve Commission (KIRC) is holding its regular business meeting on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at 1:00 PM. The meeting takes place in person in Honolulu and is also available via Zoom or telephone. Topics include:

• The commission's budget for the upcoming fiscal year (FY27)
• Leadership changes, including selecting a new Chairperson and Vice Chairperson
• Planned access dates for the Protect Kaho'olawe 'Ohana (PKO) in 2027
• Forming working groups focused on cultural practices and the I Ola Kanaloa initiative
• Progress on restoration projects, including watershed, wetland, and coastal habitat restoration
• Infrastructure updates such as base camp improvements, a boathouse expansion, water catchment, solar repairs, and road work
• Ongoing support programs, including mental health services for the Maui Recovery Program

Decisions Expected

• Approving the FY27 budget
• Setting the commission's legislative positions for the 2027 session
• Approving 2027 access dates for PKO visits to Kaho'olawe
• Assigning commissioners to two working groups
• Recommending a new Chairperson to the Governor and voting on a Vice Chairperson
• Adopting formal resolutions honoring Michelle Miki'ala Pescaia and Dawn Chang for their contributions to Kaho'olawe

Who Should Pay Attention

• Native Hawaiian communities with cultural or spiritual connections to Kaho'olawe
• Environmental and conservation advocates following island restoration efforts
• Residents interested in state land and natural resource management
• Anyone affected by Maui County sustainability or recovery programs linked to KIRC projects