Local residents angry about the construction of a “monster house” on Maui

NAPILI (HawaiiNewsNow) – A so-called monster home is causing controversy on Maui.

The county planning director says the Napili contractor followed all the rules. However, critics say the rules need to be changed.

The two-story building on the corner of Lower Honoapiilani Road and Hui Drive is 7,483 square feet – the developer says it is a single-family home.

“The main part of the structure is about 35 feet high and has a rooftop swimming pool accessed by an elevator shaft and two enclosed stairwells that extend up an additional 10 feet. So it’s actually 45 feet tall, ”said Michele McLean, Maui County’s chief planning officer.

McLean said because the house is nearly 7,500 square feet it didn’t need special administrative permits, meaning no community contribution is required

“The building height limit in this district is two stories, but it doesn’t tell you the number of meters,” McLean said. “These things together resulted in the approval of this structure without public announcement without public review and it is quite alarming to see it in this prominent place.”

Junya Nakoa, a lifelong resident of Napili, wants an independent investigation because he doesn’t trust the structure will only be used for one family.

“It’s a monstrosity. The Buggah is a hotel, not a family home, ”said Nakoa. “Who checks whether it’s just a family and not tourists from outside who rent out holiday apartments for a short time? Who will check? “

McLean said they would double-check the square footage and work on a bill to change the zoning to ban the use of vacation rentals in the future and place a building height limit of 30 feet.

Owner Greg Brown did not respond to Hawaii News Now’s request for comment.

“Please. Come to a table, talk to us peacefully and let’s find a solution that serves the common good,” said Christopher Salem, Napili resident.

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