Thank you for supporting the Honolulu Star-Advertiser. Here is a free story for you to enjoy! Six months after wildfires devastated Lahaina, Kula, and the West Maui economy, businesses continue to struggle. Kim Ball, a member of Maui Mayor Richard Bissen’s advisory council, focuses on economic recovery but acknowledges the ongoing challenges faced by businesses in the area. Despite some hopeful indicators of a rebound, Business owners are still waiting for more government assistance to stabilize or restart their businesses.
Dany White, the owner of Maui Memories, is paying off a $150,000 COVID-era loan through the Small Business Administration, as her store was destroyed in the wildfires. She used savings to open a new store, hoping to recover her losses. Carlos Montano, owner of The Sun Spot boutique gallery, is awaiting approval for a Maui County business “Bridge Grant” to help his struggling business survive.
On the other hand, Kent Untermann, the founder and president of Coco Nene, has managed to open new stores and keep paying his employees due to business interruption insurance. His focus on locally made products has allowed him to continue operations, despite the challenges faced by many other businesses.
Overall, the economic recovery in West Maui continues to be a mixed bag, with some businesses struggling to survive and others finding ways to adapt and continue operating. Maui’s small businesses are in need of more support to overcome the lingering effects of the wildfires.
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