The heads of government ask for more help

Wailuku (Hawaiinewsnow) – billions of dollars of federal aid were assigned to Maui for the recovery of disasters and economic development.

But the survivors of Lahaina Feuer fear that the Trump administration could bring the money to a standstill.

“The current plan of the current presidential administration is to leave Hud understaffed,” said Lahaina Feuerbübste Krizhna Bayudan.

Almost three months after Bayudan fought against the federal financing for Maui in the country's capital on Wednesday, he demanded in front of the district building that community groups have a voice in important decisions.

“We come out as a coalition to ensure that money is used as the community represents,” she said.

Maui County is ready to obtain about 1.6 billion USD in CDBG-DR financing (Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery) of around USD 1.6 billion.

In addition, a further $ 480 million for the construction of critical water infrastructure, repair streets, support for economic relaxation, agriculture, nature conservation efforts and childcare are provided and small companies provide loans.

The district is planning public meetings in the next month so that the residents can learn more about financing and give feedback.

The organizations' coalition encourages everyone to participate.

“The reality is that if there are no affordable housing options, if there is no financial stability in direct responsibility, many families have to make this decision and we will lose many community members,” said Eric Arquero, Managing Director of Kaiibigan NG Lahaina.

District officials say that, in contrast to other forms of Federal Aid, CDBG-DR funds cannot be used for rent subsidies or other short-term aid programs, since they are intended to support permanent reconstruction efforts and non-temporary or emergency support that falls under FEMA and other federal programs.

The Fema said it was prescribed by law to calculate rent for direct apartments 18 months after a disaster.

From this Saturday, all direct households are responsible for paying the rent.

“The Fema has the authority to refrain from renting. You have done it before and can do it again, ”said Bayudan.

The deadline for appointment ends on March 11th.

“We ask the administration to ensure that these agencies are fully occupied, so that recovery funds achieve survivors without unnecessary delays,” said Bayudan.

State officials said the governor had instructed Hiema to apply for an extension with the FEMA.

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