I just read about the committee that is looking at what to do about retaining Kauai’s environment and lifestyle.
We have been visiting Kauai since 1974 and have watched all the devastating changes that happen every year on the island. I can no longer look a local in the eye because of what we have done to your island.
I am so happy that the powers that be are finally going to take action.
We would be willing never to visit Kauai again if the committee put on restrictions limiting tourists and preserved the island and the environment for the local Hawaiian people.
Then today I read about Zuckerberg buying more land. I would like to suggest a few ideas.
No. 1 — Limit the number of tourists allowed to come to Kauai. Our numbers are destroying your paradise. The locals are getting taxed to death to maintain all the infrastructure that we make necessary.
No. 2 — When you do limit the number of visitors, also add at least $100 per person landing fee to help pay for infrastructure that we make necessary. People who can afford to come to Kauai can afford an additional landing fee.
No. 3 — Do not allow mainlanders or out of country people to buy land on Kauai. Make it so long-time residents, 30 years or more are the only people who can buy property on Kauai and they have to be permanent residents. Then locals and their children will be able to grow up and be able to afford to buy their own place to raise their families. The way it is now, wealthy people price everything out of the reach of local people. Costa Rica does not allow non-Costa Ricans to buy oceanfront property. That is a start, but should cover all land on the island. If the Zuckerberg example doesn’t wake you up, nothing will.
No. 4 — Limit the number of rental cars allowed on the island. We can slow down and enjoy the scenery by walking or taking shuttle service.
No. 5 — Don’t give permits for any more vacation rentals. People who buy properties and come down for 2 or three months and then rent out their property are the cause of locals not being able to buy property.
No. 6 — Require all businesses, such as Costco, not to sell over packaged food like hard plastic that will never deteriorate, just for a salad or fruit or a drink. Businesses should be responsible for taking back their pollution and pay to have it recycled. The price of food is unbelievable. I don’t know how a regular family can afford to feed their family.
Please make it possible for the Kauaians to be able to stay on the island and live a comfortable lifestyle and preserve their beautiful paradise.
I will give up my opportunity to come there if there is a restriction on tourism. If i don’t make the cut and cannot come back at least I know it is for the good of the island and it’s people. There is still time to save your island and your locals if you take action immediately. Read the writing on the wall before it’s too late.
•••
Linda and Adrian Place live in Calgary. Alberta.
