In this article, we will be discussing the ongoing process of selecting a permanent debris site for the Lahaina fire in Maui. The selection of this site is crucial for the safe disposal of the debris and ensuring the well-being of the community. The decision-making process involves careful evaluation of various criteria and public input. Let’s dive into the details.
Evaluating Potential Sites
The infrastructure task force team, along with partners and consultants, evaluated eight initial sites based on public health, safety, and environmental concerns. These sites were suggested by the public and have been shared multiple times. The team used a color matrix to score and rank the sites based on the criteria. After considering public input, four additional criteria were added: historic preservation, cultural sensitivity, distance to the coastline, and prevailing winds.
Three Potential Sites
After re-evaluating the sites, the team narrowed down the options to three potential sites: Wahikuli, Crater Village, and Central Maui Landfill. It is important to note that there is no perfect site, and the selection process aims to find the best option based on the criteria and public input.
1-Wahikuli Area:
- Advantages:
- Near the temporary disposal site in Olu.
- Government-owned and undeveloped land.
- Disadvantages:
- Slated for future housing.
- Near the coastline and existing residential areas.
2-Crater Village:
- Advantages:
- Near the temporary disposal site.
- Government-owned and undeveloped land.
- Ability to site away from residential areas.
- Disadvantages:
- Potential changes in site location based on landowner preferences.
3-Central Maui Landfill:
- Advantages:
- Undeveloped land planned for a future landfill site.
- Away from residential areas.
- Below the Underground Injection Control (UIC) line.
- Disadvantages:
- Far from the temporary disposal site in Olu.
- Anticipated major traffic impacts and roadway safety concerns.
Public Input and Survey
The selection team values public input and aims to involve the community in the decision-making process. A community survey has been launched to gather feedback on the importance of different criteria for the potential sites. The survey will help the team understand the community’s priorities and incorporate them into the scoring and evaluation process.
The survey will be open for approximately two weeks, and participants can access it online or through a random phone survey selection. The results of the survey will be analyzed by consultants, and a summary will be shared with the public. The transparency of the process is a priority, and the results will be made public, possibly through the Maui recovery site or other means.
Target Date for Final Selection
The target date for the final selection of the permanent debris site is March 1st. This date is crucial to address concerns about leaving the debris at the temporary site in Olu and to ensure that FEMA support is not compromised. The selection team understands the urgency of finding a permanent site designed to contain the debris and is committed to making the right decision for the community.
Conclusion
The process of selecting a permanent debris site for the Lahaina fire in Maui is a complex and important task. The team, along with partners and consultants, has evaluated potential sites based on various criteria and public input. Three potential sites have been identified, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Public input is crucial in this decision-making process, and a community survey has been launched to gather feedback on the importance of different criteria. The target date for the final selection is March 1st, and the team is dedicated to finding the best option for the safe disposal of the debris. If you live on Maui, make sure to fill out the survey and have your voice heard in this important decision-making process.
Thank you for taking the time to read this article. Stay tuned for more updates on the selection of the permanent debris site for the Lahaina fire in Maui.
