All HC&D workers will keep jobs as Kahala Concrete takes over on Maui

PUUNENE (HawaiiNewsNow) – Thirty-nine workers at Honolulu Construction & Draying Co., Ltd. (HC&D) on Maui will keep their jobs following months of contract negotiations after the company’s assets were sold to a Honolulu-based firm.

Read more 49th annual Prince Lot Hula Festival honors Kamehameha V’s legacy of preserving hula

Sale sparked job loss fears

In May, workers learned that Nan Inc., a large Honolulu-based company, had purchased HC&D’s assets on Maui.

Rumors spread that all 39 employees would be out of work after July 24.

Stephen West, ILWU Maui Division Director, said he encouraged workers to stay the course during the uncertainty.

“We announced it to the guys, ‘Hey, look, continue going out there, continue working, doing a good job, work hard, show them that you’re the asset, right? They can purchase all the trucks and everything, but unless they have you, you make everything happen,’” West said.

New company, same workers

After negotiations concluded, all employees will be retained, and their years of service will be recognized.

HC&D’s last day on Maui is July 24th.

The following Monday, the operation will reopen as Kahala Concrete, run by Grace Pacific LLC, a subsidiary of Nan Inc.

Case Miyahira, president of Grace Pacific LLC, said the company worked to reassure workers from the start.

Read more Video shows progress in Aloha Stadium dismantling

“We had heard that fear expressed kind of from the very beginning. We tried and made efforts to convey to them what our intent is, and it’s still our intent to employ everyone and keep operations consistent through the transition,” Miyahira said.

Workers reflect on the company’s legacy

The blue and white HC&D trucks have been on Maui roads for 118 years.

Loader operator Sam Miguel said he had dreamed of working for the company — previously known as Ameron — since he was five years old.

“It’s like the biggest video game you’re ever going to play in your life,” Miguel said. “I’ve been around um all my life. That’s all I wanted to do since I was small and I’m doing my job. I’m doing what I love to do. So, I got to fulfill my dream becoming one truck driver.”

Dozer operator Ken Kekona has been with the company for 38 years. He is excited to continue doing what he loves.

“It’s a blessing for all of us. I was happy. I’m very emotional. Happy about it. I’m glad everybody gonna be still here,” Kekona said fighting back tears.

Read more Hundreds of Kuhio Park keiki receive free supplies at back-to-school event

Kahala Concrete is now taking orders.