Welcome to Makawao paniolo country! A turn of the century western town emerges amidst a sea of green rolling hills.  Makawao means "Eye of the Forest".

Makawao's traditional Portuguese and Chinese heritage evolved to reflect the multicultural origin of it's latest immigrants and new age influence.

It's historic churches exemplify the town's roots. The town's ambiance personifies a lifestyle that seeks to embrace old-timers and new business in harmony.

Makawao's rustic setting adds to the rich heritage of the area that still sees the occasional cowboy ride into town.

Many interesting boutiques, galleries, restaurants and small shops are influenced and inspired by it's "cowboy" tradition. Community events are also rooted in tradition including the famous 4th of July Rodeo and Parade, the church festivals and craft fairs, the Christmas Celebration and the Upcountry Fair.

Specialty items the area has become known for include Komoda's cream puffs, homemade Portuguese sweet bread, sausage and the areas fruity jams and jellies.

The Hui Noeau Visual Arts Center just below the town is located above and across former Grove Ranch, home to many old-time cowboys.
 

• 2009 General Plan Update with G-PAC and Planning Commission.
• 2009 General Plan Update with G-PAC and IRC Committee to develop Maui Island Plan.
• 2006 - 2009 Makawao Safety, Restoration, and Streetscape Beautification Plan for Baldwin Avenue.
• 2008 - 2009 Downhill Bike Tour Study
• 2008 Comprehensive Report on County of Maui General Plan Update: Policies, Maui Island Plan, and Mapping.
• 2008 General Plan Advisory Committee (G-PAC) / Investigative Review Committee (IRC).
• 2008 Baldwin Avenue - Topographic Survey and Mapping.
• 2007 General Plan Update (G-PAC) Presentation on Makawao (Policies and Maps).
• 2007 Makawao Streetscape Assesment and Analysis (CHP).
• 2006 “How Much Is Too Much” Community Forum.
• 2006 Makawao Town Square Conceptual Design.
• Makawao Small Town Zoning and Development Code.
• Makawao Business Capacity Study.
• Testified on Community-Based issues incl., water and road improvements, new and rehab projects in town, bike tours, transient vacation rentals/bed and breakfasts, etc.
• Identify and support needed Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) for Makawao (on-going).
• Makawao Restrooms (Permanent at Municipal Lot, Temporary at Komoda's Parking) .
• Makawao Strategic Plan I and Updated Plan II.
• Makawao Country Town Design Guidelines.
• Makawao “Talk Story” Oral History Group.
• Established Traditional Paniolo Christmas Program Concept.
• Economic Development Conference(s) w/Tri-Isle Main Street Resource Center.  (Small Town Survival Strategies). 
• Town Beautification Partners with Community Work Day Projects.
• Town Entry Signs.  (3)
• July 4th Celebration...Parade Participants and Assist Decorating the Town.
• Business Directory (on-going).
• Community Oriented Policing Program.
• Historic Makawao Walk Tour Brochure / Oral History Project.
• Makawao, Kula, Pukalani Community Plan Update.
• Makawao Municipal Parking Lot...Support County of Maui Acquisition 
• Took lead in Community efforts to reduce the scope of Barto Project Shopping Center to fit with scale of existing Makawao Town.
• Work with Bartos for Mixed-Use and 3 1/2 Acre Linear Park.
• Save existing Makawao School Buildings (Search for alternatives for school expansion) .
• Meeting with Youth to discuss and plan safe recreational activities.
• Provided consultation & assistance to various businesses relating to improvements and expansions (i.e., Rodeo General Store, owner - Hugh Starr, etc.).
• Conducted a Business Retention & Expansion Survey and Analysis.
• Facilitating in Komoda Store Facade Renovation process.