Pau Hana Inn Bought By Molokai Community Health Center

By Dan Murphy

Molokai has seen its share of ups and downs and the Pau Hana Inn has weathered many of them. Now, it is about to experience another transformation – one that will foster both good health and economy for the island. The Molokai Community Health Center (MCHC) purchased the old Pau Hana Inn from New Hope Christian Fellowship on July 31 for $2.75 million.

MCHC’s Executive Director Desiree Puhi spearheaded the effort to complete the sale. Puhi took over at the Health Center in July 2008 and immediately recognized a need for more space. The 5.9 acre plot, located makai of King’s Chapen in Kaunakakai, will be a major increase in space from the 2,400 square foot office that the MCHC has used since its opening in 2004.

“We were too cramped to meet all of our patients’ needs and we also needed more room to continue to grow,” MCHC Financial Director Cyrus Siu said.

Siu estimated that the process to convert the retreat center into a medical facility will take almost a year. He said they hope to be fully functional by July 1, 2010, but that date may change based on how quickly they can acquire Special Management Area permits and begin the renovations.