What's Being Discussed

The Maui County Council's Water Authority, Social Services, and Parks Committee will receive an update on the Maui Wildfire Exposure Cohort Study (MauiWES). Researchers from the University of Hawaiʻi will present findings from their latest report, titled "The Road to Recovery: Strengthening Health, Stability, and Resiliency Three Years After the Maui Wildfires."

Presenting researchers include:

• Dr. Alika Maunakea — John A. Burns School of Medicine, UH Mānoa
• Dr. Ruben Juarez — UH Economic Research Organization and Economics Department
• Dr. Christopher Knightsbridge — Head of the Mental Health Team, UH Maui Wildfire Exposure Study

The study tracks how the 2023 Maui wildfires have affected the health, economic stability, and mental well-being of survivors over time.

Decisions Expected

No votes or formal legislative actions are planned for this meeting. The committee will receive information and hear presentations only. Members may ask questions and discuss related topics.

Who Should Pay Attention

• Maui wildfire survivors and their families, especially those interested in how their recovery is being studied and tracked
• Residents concerned about public health and mental health services following the fires
• Community members, advocates, and nonprofits working on wildfire recovery efforts
• Anyone interested in long-term research on disaster recovery in Hawaiʻi

The meeting takes place Monday, August 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Public testimony is welcome in person in Wailuku, online via Microsoft Teams, or by phone.