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.
Is there a new county auditor?
No. Ernie Pasion currently holds this position, as he has since September 2009.
Can there be signage posted on the beach behind the Kapaa swimming pool to warn beachgoers of the strong current?
There are currently two “Strong current” warning signs posted along the beach fronting the Kapaa swimming pool. One is posted at the south end of the pool, fronting the parking lot, and one is at the north end.
There is a large drop-off at the entrance of the parking lot on the south. Is there a more permanent material that can be used to level the area as sand will deteriorate quickly?
This issue was reported to DOPR on May 22. By May 29, the parking lot entrance was leveled. The material used was not sand, but crushed coral rock.
Who is responsible for this area, including trash collection, maintenance, restriping of bike lane?
The upper portion of the Kealia Lookout is managed by the state Department of Transportation. However, a DOPR crew did respond to the area and recently trimmed ironwood trees along the embankment of the lookout.
What is the status of the Clean Air Bill that was introduced by Councilmember Gary Hooser?
Bill No. 2573, Draft 2, was deferred at the March 4 Public Safety Committee meeting at the request of Committee Chair Gary Hooser, who is also the introducer of the bill. The bill was not given a date-specific deferral as Hooser requested more time to work on the bill with the various stakeholders and will reschedule the bill at a future committee meeting once a viable community-based solution can be worked out. At this time, Hooser is continuing to research the issue and working with impacted residents on potential solutions.
Are the crosswalks on Hardy Street temporary? Can there be increased signage to give motorists better warning that there is a crosswalk in the area?
The construction plans for Hardy Street show several new crosswalks which will have “Pedestrian crossing” or “School crossing” signs in place when the project is complete. During construction, there may be temporary crosswalks in place that do not have signs. Motorists are reminded that the posted speed limit is 15 mph in the school zone and 25 mph elsewhere in this area. Drive with extreme caution through the construction area for the safety of pedestrians, road crews and fellow motorists.
Is it possible to install a lighted crosswalk at the crosswalk on Kalepa, due to its proximity to the school and shopping center?
A lighted crosswalk was not planned for this crosswalk; however, there are two signs in each direction as you approach this crosswalk. The first is a warning sign to indicate a pedestrian crossing. The second sign, closest to the crosswalk, directs drivers to “Stop here for pedestrians.” A lighted crosswalk can be considered as a future project.
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Jerome Freitas can be reached at theshadow96751@gmail.com or 635-3528.
