In the aftermath of the devastating Lahaina fire that occurred on August 8th, Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club held their Fall 2023 Board of Directors’ meetings and Annual Meetings. The fire had a profound impact on the resort’s associates, with 69 of them losing their homes. As part of a concerted effort to assist these affected associates, the resort is collaborating closely with the Marriott Vacations Worldwide (MVW) management team.
Organizational Structure of the Resort
The resort comprises two separate legal entities: the Association of Apartment Owners of Maui Ocean Club (AOAO) and the Maui Ocean Club Vacation Owners Association (VOA). The AOAO oversees the exterior of the buildings, while the VOA is tasked with managing everything inside the villas.
Increase In 2024 Maintenance Fees
| Unit Type | 2023 | Percentage Increase | 2024 | Additional Plumbing Reserves | Total 2024 Billing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom MOC 1 | $2,629.72 | 9.8% | $2,888.24 | $538.18 | $3,426.42 |
| 2 Bedroom MOC 1 | $2,892.71 | 9.8% | $3,177.10 | $592.01 | $3,769.11 |
| 2 Bedroom MOC 2 | $3,204.891 | 9.8% | $3,559.51 | $663.27 | $4,222.78 |
| 3 Bedroom MOC 2 | $3,888.94 | 9.8% | $4,271.30 | $795.89 | $5,067.19 |
For 2024, the Board has decided to raise the average annual maintenance fee by 9.8%. This increase is primarily driven by factors such as property taxes, management fees, insurance, and operating contingencies. In addition to this, there will be an extra charge for plumbing reserves, averaging $600 for 2024, with a similar amount expected in 2025.
Planned Renovations At The Resort: A Timeline
Over the next two years, the resort will undergo significant construction and renovation activities. Here’s a projected timeline for these major projects:
Electrical Switch Gear Replacement
The first major project involves replacing all the main electrical components that supply power to MOC 1. This project is scheduled from March to May 2024. Temporary power will be supplied by generators during this period to avoid any power disruptions. However, due to the recent Lahaina fire, Hawaiian Electric might face challenges in terms of manpower and equipment, which could potentially delay the project.
MOC 1 Suite Refurbishment and Plumbing Project
This project, set to be the largest we’ve ever embarked on, will affect every suite in MOC 1 and last for thirteen months. The work will be done sequentially to minimize the number of suites out of service at any given time. Construction is expected to commence on June 1, 2024, and continue until June 30, 2025. The timing of this project is contingent on the availability of contractors and suitable housing for them.
MOC 1 Roof Replacement
Starting in early 2025, all three MOC 1 buildings will have their roofs replaced. The timeline for this project will depend somewhat on the progress of the suite refurbishment and plumbing project mentioned above. The roof replacement is anticipated to take about a year to complete.
MOC 2 Soft Goods Renovation
The final major project will involve a soft goods renovation of the MOC 2 Villas. With several such renovations under our belt, there are fewer uncertainties surrounding this project. It is currently scheduled for the latter half of 2025.
As you plan your visits over the next couple of years, you will be notified of any ongoing construction work during your booking weeks. Once these projects are completed, our resort will be ready to offer an enhanced experience for a considerable duration.
Resort Occupancy and Reopening Post-Fire
Following the fires, the resort’s occupancy plummeted to near zero but has been slowly recovering since. With the Governor of Hawaii and the Mayor of Maui allowing all hotels in West Maui to welcome tourists from November 1st, the resort, which was not subject to the governmental closure mandates, has been open for owners since September 8th.
Updates on Resort Amenities and Surrounding Area
Several amenities at the resort and nearby areas are now open. These include the Beach Walk, Starbucks, Longhi’s, and the main pool bar, with most of the shops on the lobby level set to open soon. The Whaler Shopping Center and many of its stores and restaurants are also operational, though some local hotels may still be accommodating displaced residents.
Relief Efforts and Construction Plans
The resort has established a relief fund for the Lahaina fire, which has already raised over $1,300,000. This fund benefits all MVW associates on properties in West Maui, and disbursements have been made to associates who lost their homes. For the next two years, there are planned construction projects including electrical switch gear replacement, suite refurbishment and plumbing project, roof replacement, and soft goods renovation.
Delay in Sand Replenishment Project
Due to the Lahaina fire, the sand replenishment project has been postponed. However, efforts are underway to resume the project. The resort is collaborating with a coalition of resorts and state and local associations to ensure the project receives re-approval and completion.
