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Maui Mayor's Salary Soars 54% Amid Recovery Criticism

4/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Maui Mayor Richard Bissen's salary will soar by 54%, positioning him as the highest-paid mayor in Hawai‘i at $245,000. While supporters argue this increase is vital for attracting skilled leaders during staffing shortages, critics deem it tone-deaf given the ongoing recovery from the devastating August wildfires and escalating living costs.

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Story summary

Maui Mayor Richard Bissen's salary will soar by 54%, positioning him as the highest-paid mayor in Hawai‘i at $245,000. While supporters argue this increase is vital for attracting skilled leaders during staffing shortages, critics deem it tone-deaf given the ongoing recovery from the devastating August wildfires and escalating living costs.