January 2025 Newsletter

Hawaiʻi Hotel Alliance Praises Governor Green and DBEDT for $6.3 Million Strategic Investment in Maui's Economic Recovery

HONOLULU, HI – Jerry Gibson, president of the Hawaii Hotel Alliance (HHA), today praised Governor Josh Green, M.D., and the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) for their commitment to Maui’s economic recovery following the devastating wildfires of August 8, 2023. HHA has been working closely with DBEDT to raise awareness of the economic hardship facing Maui families and small businesses due to the downturn in tourism.

“The Hawaii Hotel Alliance has been a strong advocate for Maui’s recovery, recognizing the critical role the visitor industry plays in supporting tens of thousands of Maui County residents,” said Gibson. “Our hotels are not just businesses; they are integral parts of the Maui community, contributing significantly to the county’s tax base through TAT and real property taxes. We understand that a thriving visitor industry is essential for Maui’s overall economic health and the well-being of its residents.”

Gibson commended DBEDT, under the leadership of Director Jimmy Tokioka, for its proactive approach to identifying effective marketing strategies. “DBEDT has been instrumental in working with the industry to develop targeted campaigns that will directly reach potential visitors and explore wholesale engagements that offer measurable return on investment, both in terms of visitor numbers and tax revenue generation,” Gibson stated.

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