Lahaina low-income housing at risk of losing its affordability

Over the past several months, Hawaiʻi Appleseed has been working with the tenants of Front Street Apartments, a 142-unit complex in Lahaina that houses 300 low-income residents, to preserve the development’s affordability.

The complex was built in 2001 using Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) with the stipulation that it would remain affordable for 50 years. However, the developer discovered a loophole that would allow it to end the affordability requirements and convert all of the units to market-rate rentals in 2019.

State legislators took note and introduced SB1266, a bill which would have kept Front Street Apartments affordable. Residents showed an outpouring of support for the measure, with dozens testifying. The bill made it through both the Hawaiʻi State House and Senate, but was deferred during conference committee, leaving just two years before the loophole allows the developer to convert the units to market rate.

Appleseed will continue working with residents along with county and state officials to keep Front Street Apartments affordable. Please contact us at info@hiappleseed.org if you would like to help with this project.