Maui County Council Seat Race Heats Up with Five New Candidates

A candidates forum held on July 21, 2026, in Kihei brought together five political newcomers competing for the Wailuku‑Waihee‑Waikapū seat on the Maui County Council, currently held by long‑time Chair Alice Lee, who announced she will not seek re‑election.

The contenders are affordable‑housing advocate and policy analyst Alan Lloyd, attorney James Forrest, longtime state airports manager Marvin Moniz (endorsed by Lee), arborist and pastor Randy Konohia, and former Maui Planning Commission vice chair and business owner Ashley Lindsey. Participants discussed concerns about rising housing costs that could force residents to leave the island. Rob Weltman, a local resident, said the candidates “are stepping up for the first time…concerned about people having to leave the island because they can’t afford to stay.” Forrest added he wants to join the progressive side of the council.

The seat is viewed as pivotal for the nine‑member council’s balance, which currently stands 5‑4 in favor of the moderate bloc. A shift could affect council control and future policy direction on the island.