At its January 24, 2024 meeting, the Royal Mauian Homeowners Association Board discussed the successful resolution of an insurance claim covering most of the $113,000 cost to repair Elevator 2, with board member Paul Piraino praised for his persistence in securing reimbursement. The board also began exploring power conditioning systems to address concerns about unstable Maui electric service potentially contributing to equipment failures. Preparations for the March 16 annual meeting were reviewed, including board elections and a proposed change to allow more timely approval of meeting minutes. Owner questions touched on elevator warranties, FEMA-related long-term rentals for wildfire victims, and state incentives for local tenant leasing.
Elevator Repairs and Power Conditioning Top Agenda at Royal Mauian HOA Meeting
January 24, 2024 – Kihei, Maui — The Royal Mauian Homeowners Association Board convened for its first meeting of the year on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, to discuss key updates and challenges facing the condominium community. The meeting, held via Zoom with full board attendance, focused on elevator repairs, potential electrical infrastructure upgrades, and preparations for the upcoming annual meeting in March.
Board member Paul Piraino presented a detailed report on the resolution of Elevator 2’s mechanical failure. After months of documentation and follow-up, the HOA secured a $110,615.25 insurance reimbursement from Travelers Insurance under a boiler and machinery policy. The total cost of repairs, including a new motor and crane rental, was approximately $113,115.25. The HOA’s direct outlay was limited to $7,700, including a $2,500 deductible and $2,700 in consulting fees. Board members credited Piraino’s persistence and the consultant’s contribution with both securing the reimbursement and reducing the original repair estimate by over $25,000.
The board unanimously voted to allocate the insurance funds to the 2024 reserve balance and formally ratified the repair contract with TK Elevator. Board President Mary Sipes and other members acknowledged the frustration of needing repairs so soon after recent elevator installations and discussed the warranty limitations that led the board to file an insurance claim instead of pursuing legal action.
Concerns over the root cause of the elevator failure sparked a broader discussion on Maui’s inconsistent power quality. Sipes noted that although a definitive cause couldn’t be determined, low-level power surges remain a plausible contributing factor. The board is exploring installation of a power conditioning system, including models with backup battery capability to ensure elevator functionality during outages. They are seeking input from owners with relevant electrical expertise to assist in evaluating vendor quotes and consultant recommendations.
Preparations for the March 16 Annual General Meeting were also discussed. The agenda will largely mirror prior years, with standard business including board elections, memorial acknowledgments, and financial presentations. A proposed change would allow the board to approve meeting minutes soon after the annual meeting, improving availability for prospective buyers and lenders. Two board seats are up for election, with both incumbents indicating interest in serving additional terms.
During owner comment periods, topics included the one-year elevator warranty, power conditioning benefits, and the governor’s initiative to encourage converting short-term rentals to long-term housing for Maui wildfire victims. Sipes clarified that while the board does not regulate whom units are rented to, long-term rentals are permitted and owners may participate in FEMA-related programs independently. She added that, as of the meeting, there was no indication of any Royal Mauian units participating in such programs.
The meeting concluded at 9:04 a.m. HST, with an executive session to follow. The board expressed appreciation for community engagement and invited further owner involvement in ongoing infrastructure planning.
