Lahaina, Water And Rebuilding Business: Maui County Council – West Maui District Candidate Q&As

Four-term incumbent will face an opponent in the general election.

By /

Four-term incumbent will face an opponent in the general election.

Maui County Council member Tamara Paltin wants to hold onto the West Maui seat she has held for the past eight years. Is she is successful, this would be her final term under county rules.

Because only two candidates took out papers to run, the race goes straight to November, where Paltin faces Mark Tillman to represent district still very much in the process of rebuilding after the August 2023 wildfires.

Civil Beat sent both candidates a series of questions about priorities for the office including how they would support agriculture and food sustainability, cost of living pressures and the effects of overtourism.

Their answers are linked below and the survey responses from candidates can be compared all in one spot on Civil Beat’s 2026 Hawaiʻi Primary Ballot. If candidates provide answers later we will update the story so check back.

Tamara Paltin

Mark Tillman

2026 Elections Guide
Hawaiʻi’s 2026 elections are right around the corner and Civil Beat’s elections guide is here to help with essential information, candidate positions, news stories and more.
See More

Related Articles

If we don't do it, who will?

Every election has the potential to shape the future of Hawaiʻi.

Civil Beat provides the independent, in-depth reporting voters need to make informed decisions — not just campaign headlines, but rigorous reporting on candidates, policies and the issues that matter most.

Your support ensures this essential public service remains free and accessible to every voter, helping strengthen our democracy and hold those seeking power accountable.

Donate

About the Author