LĪHUʻE, Hawaii (KHON2) — Instability and uncertainty were the themes of Kaua‘i Mayor Derek Kawakami’s State of the County Address at the Līhu‘e Civic Center on Thursday, March 13.
According to Kawakami, his proposed $347 million budget emphasizes infrastructure projects, affordable housing initiatives and improved customer service for county employees.
The Mayor hopes to continue prioritizing infrastructure projects to include 35 additional roads totaling 48 lane miles under contract, costing $21 million.
Kawakami also hopes to continue expansion of the Kekaha Landfill as well as find a new landfill location before Kekaha reaches capacity in 2027.
Officials said affordable housing remains essential in the budget, with hundreds of affordable housing units planned in the near future.
He also spoke about the struggle to fill vacant county positions.
“We have proposed a budget initiative to convert full-time positions to two part-time positions to attract people who may be eager to work, but require flexibility. As we highlight our vacancies, let me quickly shout out any federal employee on Kaua‘i looking for work. We have a place for you here at the County of Kaua‘i,” said Kawakami.
The County said they are also committed to purchasing a new twin-engine helicopter to support first responders and assist with wildfires and rescues.
In his final words of the address, Mayor Kawakami emphasized Hawai‘i’s desire to find common ground, even in times of chaos, to provide a beacon of hope.
“As I have this rare opportunity to speak to my fellow state elected officials, I offer you the same challenge. No matter the conditions, we must always be that steady beacon of hope, and light the path forward for generations.”
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To view Mayor Kawakami’s full State of the County Address, visit Kaua‘i County’s Facebook page.