Hawaii's governor, Josh Green has promised the people living in Lahaina that the extensive process of reconstructing Maui's historic Lahaina community will give more preference to the locals living on the island than the property developers.
During a video statement, Josh Green said that it is very clear in his mind that Lahaina belongs to the people who are living on the island and the government is committed to rebuilding the island for its people.
Alongside the governor, First Lady Jaime Kanani Green showed signs of emotion as she described the depth of the anguish locals have. The First Lady also said that Lahaina's culture is rich and famous across the globe. However, just in one day, the entire beauty, and culture of Lahaina have been destroyed in one of the deadliest wildfires.
The news of the assurance came hours after the entire Lahaina community came together to request the state leader to involve residents in the process of reconstructing the island.
Community members asked the authorities that while rebuilding areas, the main focus should be on the needs of the people rather than what developers are looking for.
Maui's wildfire has wreaked havoc on people living on the island. While 111 people have lost their lives so far, many are stranded and are forced to seek emergency shelters. Though the fire has been contained, people are only left with rubble and ashes. Above 2,000 buildings have been destroyed due to the wildfire including various historical sites, schools and campuses.
More than 1,000 residents are still missing, and the search operation for those people is underway. Further, locals are worried that outsiders will take advantage of the situation to seize land.
Governor has also requested the attorney general to take stock of the situation and have a "comprehensive review” of the disaster.
