Nearly a year after a devastating wildfire in Lahaina, Maui officials are detailing the rebuilding progress. The wildfire, the deadliest in the U.S. in over a century, left Kim Ball’s community in ruins. The vacant lot where his home once stood symbolizes the strides being made in recovery. Signs of progress are evident as Maui County officials show Hawaii reporters the hardest-hit areas, where the fire claimed 102 lives and destroyed thousands of homes.

Ball's neighbourhood shows clear signs of recovery, with lots cleared of debris and toxic ash. Along Komo Mai Street, green sprouts are emerging among the scorched vegetation. Amidst the noise of heavy machinery, Ball shared that he swiftly secured a building permit because his house was only five years old, and his contractor still had the original plans. He plans to rebuild the same house, perhaps with a new paint colour.

On Malanai Street, Gene Milne's property is the first to start rebuilding. His unfinished home had open permits, making it easier to restart. During the fire, Milne was living in an accessory dwelling, an "ohana unit," reflecting the Hawaiian word for family. His main house was about 70% complete. Seeing the new walls go up for the Ohana unit has been "extremely healing" for Milne, who is using insurance funds to rebuild. Maui Mayor Richard Bissen highlighted Milne's progress as a milestone for the community, signalling hope and determination to rebuild despite the long and complex process ahead. So far, 23 residential building permits have been approved, with 70 more under review.