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.
Public Works
Da Shadow: (Aug. 23) What is the job description and rate of pay for the chief of field operations and maintenance for the Public Works Roads Division?
County: (Sept. 5) The chief of the Roads Division of Public Works is responsible for four sections: Administrative, Technical, Vehicle Equipment Operator Training and Safety Compliance, and Field Operations. Field Operations consists of three branches: Roads Construction and Maintenance Base Yards; Traffic Signs and Pavement Markings; and Refuse Collections. Roads Division manages approximately 275 miles of roads: 235 paved and 40 unpaved. The Roads Division consists of roughly 100 employees. The rate of pay for this position as noted in the current budget ordinance is $85,740.
Wailua Bridge
Da Shadow: (Aug. 23) Under the bridge, sand is piling up to the point of water not being able to flow out from the river into the ocean. Canoe clubs aren’t able to navigate the area. Is there something the county can do about this? If not, what agency would be responsible?
County: (Sept. 5) The sand and the river mouth issue is a state DLNR responsibility.
Anahola Village Park
Da Shadow: (Aug. 23) The soccer nets at the Park are either missing or torn. When will they be fixed?
County: (Sept. 5) Assuming materials are available, this repair will be done within the next two weeks.
Kaua‘i Police Department
Da Shadow: (Oct. 17) What are the prohibitions in County Code for use of skateboards? Are they allowed on roads? Sidewalks? Parking lots?
County: (Nov. 1) Section 16-16.6 of the Kaua‘i County Code refers to “Use of Coasters, Roller Skates and other Play Vehicles on Roadways Prohibited.” It states: “It shall be unlawful for persons to ride any coasters, roller skates, skateboards, or other similar devices on any roadway or on any sidewalk in a business district.”
Hanalima Street Park
Da Shadow: (Oct. 17) There is a park on this street that is overgrown and the playground equipment is broken and in need of repairs.
County: (Nov. 1) Parks staff will investigate and take appropriate action.
Parks
Da Shadow: (Oct. 17) Does Parks own a vacuum for picking up leaves? I’ve seen them used at the airport and they are much more efficient than rakes or blowers.
County: (Nov. 1) No, Parks does not own a vacuum for picking up leaves.
• Jerome Freitas can be reached at theshadow96751@gmail.com or 635-3528. Visit his website at http://theshadow96746.tripod.com.
