Mayor Michael Victorino reacted Wednesday to the reckless behavior on the part of a Maui County Council member to play political games with the Lahaina injection well case while it remains in an ongoing, sensitive stage of mediation.

“Federal Judge Barry Kurren is overseeing the case’s mediation. Judge Kurren conveyed to the parties his opinion that this process must be allowed a viable chance to become successful. Councilmember Mike Molina is well aware of the status of this case, nevertheless, he appears more concerned about using any platform available to garner votes and not with helping to resolve this issue in the best interests of the parties and all of Maui County. This is highly irresponsible, and he was warned not to interfere,” Mayor Victorino said. “This matter has been remanded to the Hawaii District Court to apply the U.S. Supreme Court’s test for the applicability of the Clean Water Act. This should be worked out in mediation and not in a public forum convened for political gamesmanship.”

“This matter is far too important for our county to not follow through with mediation and to follow the U.S. Supreme Court’s test. All parties are now at the table: the County, the plaintiff groups, and the State of Hawaii Department of Health. I have full faith that this matter will be resolved in the best interests of our community and the environment. I had hoped to resolve this case in the best interests of all the people of Maui County.”