Editor’s note: Old-timers might still remember the introduction from The Shadow radio program: “Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men? The Shadow knows!” Jerome Freitas, a retired state Department of Transportation worker who is now better known
Editor’s note: Old-timers might still remember the introduction from The Shadow radio program: “Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men? The Shadow knows!” Jerome Freitas, a retired state Department of Transportation worker who is now better known as Da Shadow, since 2004 has been meeting with government representatives about problems he has discovered or that have been reported to him, and reporting the county’s responses.
Lydgate Park
Shadow: What is the update on repairs to the small pavilion at Lydgate?
County: A contractor has been hired to provide numerous repairs and improvements at Lydgate park. These repairs and improvements include upgrades to all restrooms, and repairs to all restrooms, pavilions, and shower facilities. This work will be completed by spring 2014.
Wailua Beach Park
Shadow: Are there signs posted saying, “No lifeguards?” Should there be such signs there?
County: The Ocean Safety Bureau of the Kauai Fire Department is responsible for posting ocean safety signs, including lifeguard signage. This suggestion has been forwarded to OSB for consideration.
Kilauea Gym
Shadow: What is the update on repairs to the gym roof?
County: A consultant has evaluated the gym roof and floor. He is finalizing a report on his findings with recommendations to repair existing roof leaks, and the resulting play court damage.
County parks
Shadow: What is the update on the replacement of the wooden bleachers at the county parks?
County: All wooden bleachers are currently being evaluated to ensure their safety for the public. Those with immediate safety concerns are being removed. Where possible, aluminum bleachers have been brought in their place as temporary replacement. Additional aluminum bleachers are being procured as long-term solutions for these sites.
Development plan
Shadow: What is the update on the East Kauai Development Plan?
County: We have retained the University of Hawaii Department of Urban and Regional Planning to complete the plan. The notice to proceed for that contract was issued this past December and we are expecting the plan to be complete by the end of calendar year 2014.
Police
Shadow: What is the starting pay for a police recruit? How many female police officers do we have?
County: Starting pay for a police recruit is $52,140. There are currently six female officers employed by KPD.
Aliomanu Road
Shadow: What is the update on the revetment project here?
County: Design and permitting is complete. Currently working on a Memorandum of Agreement with DHHL for in-kind services for Anahola in exchange for extra right-of-way inland at the project location. Unfortunately, we can not provide a timeline for completion at this time.
Personnel
Shadow: If a person feels harassed at work, what is the process to deal with the situation?
County: This is a really difficult question to answer since each situation is special and unique. The county has a policy against discrimination and harassment which explains the process and includes a complaint form. The policy is available to all employees. The basic process is that once harassment has been determined, the county will take the appropriate action.
• Jerome Freitas can be reached at theshadow96751@gmail.com or 635-3528. Visit his website at http://theshadow96746.tripod.com.
