Maui Mayor stays silent on finance director’s paid leave choice.

TLDR

• Maui County’s finance director, Scott Teruya, has been placed on paid administrative leave, and the reason behind this decision remains unknown.
• Teruya has been with the county for nearly 27 years and has served as finance director since January 2019.

The mayor’s office has not provided any details about Teruya’s leave, citing it as a personnel matter.

Several council members have expressed concern about the timing of Teruya’s leave, as budget season approaches and the finance department is already understaffed.

Teruya’s role as finance director is critical for maintaining the county’s credit rating and preparing the fiscal year 2025 budget.

Teruya has not responded to requests for comment, and the county has not provided further information at this time.

Political observers hope Teruya can return to his position soon, as he is considered a key figure in the finance department.