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BETTER PLAN NEEDED
FOR WAILEA 670

We, the undersigned, support a planning strategy that puts Maui residents' needs first, before those of offshore investors. I do not support the proposed 1,400 unit Wailea 670/ "Honua'ula" project without real facts as to the impacts, not just hollow promises. Kihei's infrastructure problems will not be solved by creating a Second City of luxury sprawl in South Maui. Please stick up for Maui's people and for responsible planning.

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Write Letters

One of the most powerful things you can do to save Makena is to write letters to the editor and to the County Council.

Send your letter to the Maui News letters@mauinews.com

Letters to the Editor are one of the most widely read sections of the newspaper and reach a large audience. They allow community members to comment on the way issues are being addressed in the media and to influence what topics the local paper covers. Elected officials often monitor this section of the newspaper and take notice of constituents' opinions.

Due to strict space limitations in newspapers, not all letters will be published, but the more letters the newspaper receives on a certain topic, the more likely they are to run at least one letter on the topic. Even those not published serve to influence the editorial policy.

Keep it short and focused, preferably less than 150 words.
Many newspapers have strict length limits and edit letters for space. A concise, single-issue letter has a better chance. In the first paragraph, state your main point and why the issue is important to you. (What impact does the issue have on the local community? How are you personally invested in a particular policy or piece of legislation?) Provide facts, quotes, and numbers in the second. Use the last paragraph to restate your point and make your recommendation.

Make specific references
While some newspapers will print general commentary letters, most prefer letters that respond to a specific article. Here are some ways to refer to an article:
“I am responding to the Maui News’ March 19 editorial headlined “So, just make a decision.”
“I hope Joan Pawsat will be allowed to express her views without being censored or disallowed from the planning process (The Maui News, March 30)

Be factual and highlight aspects of the issue that haven’t been previously addressed. Use facts, figures and expert testimony whenever possible. Don't be shrill or abusive. Editors tend to discard letters containing personal attacks

Include your name, address and phone number
The Maui News will only publish a letter to the editor with the author’s contact information. When printed, the letter will only include your name and city.

Writing to elected officials (The County Council: countyclerk@mauicounty.us)

It is important that we tell elected officials where we stand on this issue. Our input shapes the decisions our representatives will make on development of the Makena area.

Emails, letters and faxes are the most effective and persuasive way of communicating our views to elected officials.

These tips will help you write a persuasive letter: