The Dawn of a New Kula

The county Department of Water Supply has begun issuing Upcountry water meters, a long awaited announcement for hundreds of property owners who’ve been on a waiting list for years for water service.

Plans to move forward were set in motion Wednesday, according to announce from the water department. They plan to pull water from the Hamakuapoko wells (water reserves on Maui’s North Shore) as  a back up well. The department said, it “will provide additional water supply, which will allow for additional water meters to be issued.”

For many Kula residents the news couldn’t be anymore joyful, many residents on the waiting list have been waiting for years, some at least a decade.

Kula Resident Alfred Medeiros Jr., who has been unable to build 10-home Keaweamahi subdivision subject. “I feel really grateful and relieved that the mayor has decided to help the upcountry people,” he said. “These people have been waiting for 20 to 30 years.” Issuing water meters will “create jobs for plenty people” he said, pointing out that he’ll be buying construction supplies locally and hiring contractors with carpenters, plumbers, electricians and others to work on his project alone.

Mederios said his Lower Kula project would have two-to-four-bedroom homes, some with cottages, on lots ranging from a half-acre to an acre. He said he and his brother bought the land property in 2003. They’ve been unable to get project financing without written confirmation from the county that the project would get water service, he said.

The water department will take requests for meters in the order that the applicants are ranked on the waiting list. The department will examine each request and contact applicants via mail, which will contain an offer of a water meter.

Applicants will have 30 days to respond to the offer, officials said. If applicants fail to reply within the 3o day period, the offer will be rescinded and mailed to another applicant. “This will be a time-consuming process, and it may take a year or more to contact all the appropriate applicants,” officials said. “For each request, the applicant and the Department of Water Supply personnel must review in detail the applicant’s project status, water system requirements and capital costs, which may be associated with the new water service and meter(s) offered.”

Water Supply Director Dave Taylor said the department expects to issue new meters for a few hundred thousand gallons of water. “Because this is a time-consuming, detailed project, we ask customers for their patience,” he said.

There are technically 1887 applicants on the list, however, some applicants have applied for multiple meters, and therefore 1887 does not reflect the true number. In reality, the real number hovers close to around 2000.

Another hurdle facing the department is the water shortage bill pending before the Maui County Council, a policy of a risk assessment. They are still working out a plan that evaluates the acceptable amount of risk the county can bear during times of drought. That risk assessment ultimately determines how much meters will be issued.

The Upcountry water system will stil rely on surface water sources, but will also to be able to pump water from the additional reserves of Pookela and Hamakuapoko wells.

The department also asks that phone calls are not placed to Water department about the status of the application. They assure that applicants will be contacted promptly. Mayor Arakawa, “I want the public to know that this is just one of the many initiative to ensure that all county residents have enough water for the future needs. We are working towards countywide solutions that will enable us to use our most valuable natural resource – water – much more efficiently.”

Upcountry Real Estate

For Sale: 23 Mauds Place

Known as the “Koa Wood Home” in Kula for the small fortune in**extensive** custom Koa woodwork throughout the home. Not to mention other exotic Hawaiian woods used in the doors, cabinetry and wood accents. Must see to appreciate. This incredible home sits on 2.4 pristine acres with stunning ocean views in an area and altitude considered the best climate on earth. Just completed a 1700+ square foot brand new building/artist studio (county approved) right off the Highway.  

Perfect for an art gallery or display shop. With an additional massive 5,000 square foot workshop/barn/office located right above the home(with 440 Three Phase Power) that currently houses a professional wood shop, but could be used for a variety of commercial businesses or converted to living space! A wonderful and unique opportunity. An attached Ohana is above the garage with Bath and another office below. This is a one owner home, and was built by the owner who is a professional builder. It therefore has all of the upgrades, meticulous maintenance and quality of construction you would expect.

For Sale: 220 OhaOha Place

Extraordinary, unique, one of a kind, super custom home and detached cottage on a level, privately gated, two acre oasis in sought after Maunaolu Plantation listed for $2,400,000. The grounds, Koi pond and resort style swimming pool rival those of many hotels. Should you choose to leave your resort, you are only minutes to Makawao Town, a short ride to Paia and the North Shore beaches, Haliimaile and Upcountrys finest schools.

Contact a Maui Real Estate and Lifestyle Specialist

The view from Hoolei Villa A6, the ultimate privacy and seclusion in the Wailea Resort

Please consider me to be your trusted Maui Real Estate and Lifestyle Advisor. I was born and raised on the island, and spend a considerable amount of time to inform my clients about the best deals currently on the market. Please do not hesitate to call me for your Maui real estate needs. I am more than happy to assist you in your home search. Aloha,