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.
Lihue
Is it legal for the food trucks to park on Rice Street and sell food? Do they need a permit?
Currently, food trucks may park along county streets if they follow all state and county traffic and parking laws as the county has the authority to prohibit any hazards in its right-of-way and enforce state or county traffic laws. The Kauai County Council is currently considering Bill No. 2628, which aims to create a comprehensive permitting process for these types of businesses. This bill will be heard by the Council’s Public Works/Parks and Recreation Committee at its Oct. 12 meeting.
At Lydgate Park, there is a leaky pipe outside the restroom on the west side. Please fix this.
Parks staff will investigate this concern, but please note that there are four restrooms at this location. Specific information on the area of concern would be helpful.
Kapaa
The Kapahi Park rest-room is in terrible condition; the roof is in bad shape. Can this restroom be replaced?
The Department of Parks and Recreation has determined that the roof and its support structure will be replaced. Project plans are currently being drafted and once complete, the work will be put out to bid. The department has already secured funding for this project.
Are dogs allowed on the entire distance of Ke Ala Hele Makalae path?
Pursuant to Kauai County Code, 19-1.4(a) item 20, dogs are allowed on the multi-use path with the exception of the portion of the path beginning at the makai end of Nalu Road (entrance to Lydgate Park) to the end of the path from Hikinaakala Heiau. Signs are posted in this area notifying the public that dogs are not allowed in that location. Dog owners are also reminded of other rules related to dogs on the path, including but not limited to: dogs must be on leashes no longer than 6 feet and retractable leashes are not allowed; dogs must be wearing a valid dog license tag; and owners are required to remove and dispose of dog feces.
The water fountains at the Kealia Beach restroom are rusted and old. Can these be replaced with new ones?
Staff will investigate this concern, but if the fountain is found to be in proper working order, it likely will not be replaced at this time.
Islandwide
The vehicle registration fee includes a beautification fee of $5. Where does this money go?
Pursuant to Kauai County Code, 5-2.6, motor vehicles shall be subject to an annual beautification fee of $5. Two dollars of the beautification fee shall be used for purposes of beautification and other related activities of highways under the jurisdiction of the county. All amounts received from any fee increase over $2 shall be expended only for purposes of defraying costs involved in abandoned vehicle disposal. Monies collected shall be placed in the Highway Beautification and Disposal of Abandoned or Derelict Vehicles Revolving Fund.
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Jerome Freitas can be reached at theshadow96751@gmail.com or 635-3528. Visit his website at http://theshadow96746.tripod.com.
