This video captures a candid conversation with then-Mayor-Elect Mike Victorino, Chris Salem, and Sam Small about why clear violations of County ordinances and Charter duties so often go unaddressed — even when the facts are undisputed.
In the exchange, Victorino openly acknowledges that County Council members are afraid to hold officials accountable because of the threat of retaliation from Corporation Counsel: being “on your own,” personally exposed to legal costs, and financially liable if enforcement actions cost the County money. He describes this fear as the “800-pound gorilla in the room.”
The discussion centers on long-standing SMA permit violations, unfulfilled fire-mitigation conditions, and a pattern of avoiding even symbolic accountability — not because the violations aren’t real, but because enforcing the law could open a “Pandora’s box” of past wrongdoing.
This video matters because it confirms, in officials’ own words, that fear and intimidation — not law or evidence — have been driving County decision-making, and that systemic cover-ups deepen when accountability is avoided.
As Maui continues to grapple with ethics failures, conflicts of interest, and the consequences of ignored safeguards, this conversation provides crucial context for why so many residents are now demanding real independence, transparency, and enforcement.
The 800 lb Gorilla is still unduly influencing the Maui Ethics Commission in violation of the Charter Amendment voters approved in 2024. Sign the petition demanding the new Ethics Director resign.