The Maui Economic Development Board says tourism is "irrefutably" the economic engine of Maui, which saw 1.4 million visitors in just the first half of 2023. About 70% of every dollar generated in Maui can be attributed to tourism, according to the board. Yet as the island looks to rebuild, residents like Keahi wonder what role tourism should play in the long road ahead to recovery. "So if they're saying Maui is closed, then there are no tourists coming in, and then we lose our jobs." "We just wanted to stay out of the way," Bailey said, adding that he understands the local residents "need time."

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Persons: Hawaii's, Kapali Keahi, Keahi, Rafael Villanueva, Villanueva, that's, " Villanueva, Josh Green, Julie Sumibtay, Sumibtay, Tom Bailey, Bailey Organizations: Maui Economic Development Board, Tourism Expert, Las Vegas Convention, Visitors Authority, Las, Las Vegas, Hawaii Gov Locations: Lahaina, Maui, Nahale St, Long, America, Las, West Maui, It's, Kihei, Sacramento, California, Kaanapali, Oahu