Council Budget Proposal Calls for 9% Property Tax Cut

Budget and Finance Committee Chair Mike White has announced a plan that proposes an average 9% reduction of real property tax rates for the 2015 fiscal budget.

White said it was time for tax rates to be lowered, rather than raised, “Taxpayer relief means leaving more money in the pockets of residents and businesses.”

In explaining the approach, White said real property tax valuations had risen, and the county’s expenditures and real property tax revenues increased from 2004 to 2013 by 71% and 82%, respectively.

When mayor, Alan Arakawa, presented his version of the budget, he explained that the county’s budget hinged on whether or not the state was going to remove the cap placed on the county’s share of the Transient Accommodations Tax that is derived from hotel room taxes.

Arakwa’s logic behind his proposed plan is, “If they don’t remove the cap, then we’re going to have to ask the community for a property tax increase of 6.7%. If they remove the cap, we can actually ask the council to not raise any of the property taxes and actually possibly reduce some.”

For the time being, legislation instead chose to increase the $93 million cap to $103 million for 2015 to 2016. Arakawa stated he doesn’t feel there is the need to increase property taxes.

To see the tax rates over the past few years, please click here.

South Maui Real Estate For Sale

Listed by the Sayles Team: 678 Umeke Street

Hokulani Golf Villas Model 210 is a three bedroom home, den and two and half bathroom home with the master suite located on the mail level and is listed for $1,063,000.  The two additional bedrooms, a loft and lanai complete the upper level to take the home to 2,380 sq. feet.

The great room and dining area feature 12 foot ceilings along with a stunning gourmet kitchen with a center island.  The covered main floor lanai is conveniently located for outdoor living and entertaining.

Listed by the Dano Sayles Team: Unit 112-5

Special properties like Ho’olei Villa 112-5 (F5) rarely become available. This iconic residence is really one of a kind. Situated on the very top of the Hoolei community, you must truly see this villa in person to appreciate the quality. The view is just outstanding – with panoramic ocean vistas looking out towards Molokini and the outer island of Lanai. Interior upgrades include imported African Mahogany wood floors throughout, custom African Mahogany cabinets in the kitchen, as well as bamboo ceiling treatment in the great room area. Designed by a prestigious California interior design group, this villa is both comfortable and tasteful.

High tech security system with state of the art cameras, and custom surround sound speakers featured throughout the home. Imported marble and granite was added in all of the bathrooms, as well as additional cabinet storage for your comfort and convenience. Thick dual-paned Fleetwood glass doors magically retract into the walls to reveal access to the upstairs covered lanai. This indoor/outdoor living arrangement is simply perfect for entertaining your friends and family.

Listed by the Sayles Team: 168 Ahekolo Place

With inventory this low in the neighborhood, you DO NOT want to miss out on this opportunity in Kilohana Ridge. Perched on the very top of the community and the end of a cul-de-sac, this single level retreat offers gorgeous ocean views clear out to the Pacific and outer islands. Finely appointed and shows like a model, 168 Ahekolo Place is offered for $1,149,000.

When you enter through the front door, you gain a sense of tranquility and immediately notice the pride of ownership and craftsmanship. This home features a dream kitchen with center island, granite counter tops, and energy efficient stainless steel appliances. The outside features a manicured lawn and tropical landscaping, will further add to the sense of privacy and serenity. The indoor/outdoor living arrangement also makes this residence the perfect place for entertaining friends and family. Absolutely stunning decor and furnishings included in the sale (with a few exceptions), you must see this home in person to appreciate the quality.

Contact South Maui Real Estate Specialist

We are currently the listing brokers of the Hokulani Golf Villas, the only luxury gated golf course course community in Kihei. Hokulani is situated in Maui ‘s newest resort community Kailea. Within the confines of Kailea you will find the state of the art residential community of Hokulani which is situated inside the gorgeous Elleair golf course on the slopes of Haleakala.

We are also the on-site real estate team at the Ho’olei villas, we are open from 9AM-5PM daily, we have been involved with the community since its creation in 2005. Residents enjoy the community for its luxurious villas, privileges at he Grand Wailea, and its central Wailea location. So feel free to stop by anytime!

Also, see a full list of Wailea condos for sale and Makena condos for sale.

Aloha,