WAILUKU, Maui (AP) — Maui County officials have denied a special-use permit to the owner of a short-term rental property who was hit with a half-million dollar fine last year as part of a settlement involving 30 alleged permit violations.
The Planning Commission denied Michael Baskin’s permit for the Paia Inn on Tuesday, citing his previous problems with the county, The Maui News reported.
Baskin has paid a majority of the $500,000 fine issued in July 2015 but still owes the county $190,000. He was accused of violating laws concerning short-term rentals, special management areas, zoning and building codes.
“I can’t see how you can continue to operate illegally, be in arrears of $190,000. I just don’t see it. I don’t see why there should be (privilege) to continue to operate,” said Commissioner Stephen Castro Sr.
Planning Director William Spence said more violations have been uncovered at the Paia Inn since the settlement. Baskin has been accused of opening up a cafe at the inn without adding the required parking stalls or obtaining proper permits.
During Tuesday’s meeting, Baskin denied wrongdoing and blamed many of the violations on the property’s age. He argued that he is allowed to have up to 12 transient vacation rentals under a bill passed by Maui County two years ago.