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.
Planning
Shadow: What is the status of the TVR investigation? Has planning resolved issues with TVR permits, inspections, etc.?
County: The Planning Department has had to administer three ordinances that were passed in two years to regulate transient vacation rentals (TVRs). This led, in part, to some contradictory record keeping requirements. Last year, the department completed the reorganization of three separate filing and numbering systems into one cohesive unit. The department is in its second complete renewal cycle. A complete list of active or closed TVR files is listed on our website, is changed daily, and updated weekly as renewals and/or appeals are processed. The department is in the process of scheduling its first set of appeal/contested case hearings with its newly appointed special counsel. The TVR inspectors are now actively investigating complaints received, now being able to devote more time to target the TVRs operating outside the visitor destination area that do not have a non-conforming use certificate. We have met with the county prosecutor, and now have a process of citing these operations without a certificate, by both the department and the prosecutor.
Council
Shadow: How much did it cost for security/planning for Bill 2491 hearings and marches?
County: The total for overtime is $66,677.42. This does not count straight time and overtime caused by officer’s duties being reassigned to deal with these events. We had numerous officers present on straight time from specialized units and administration. We are unable to make a full accounting of the cost but we believe it would be in excess of $100,000.
Kapahi Reservoir
Shadow: What is the status of the Kapahi Reservoir project?
County: PW is working with DLNR and DAGS on final designs for the upper dam and with the land owners on completing ongoing maintenance of the overall dam structures. Construction work is under state Department and General Accounting office. There is no change in status, design is ongoing by DAGS.
Kanahele Road/Laipo
Shadow: The storm drain is clogged and needs cleaning. When will this be addressed?
County: This drain is currently clogged by roots of the surrounding vegetation. The drain pipe will need to be replaced. Plans are to prepare a scope for procurement and contract this work out, we hope to complete this work by June 30.
Kapaia Swinging Bridge
Shadow: What is the current status of this project?
County: The project’s scope has changed, and needs to be reviewed again by State Historic Preservation Division. Our consultant will contact SHPD to confirm best route for resubmitting the revised plans which now includes phasing the project. The County Attorney’s office has been working with the Kapaia Swinging Bridge Foundation and have executed an easement agreement for the foundation to support the project. The agreement is close to being finalized and then needs council approval. Public Works continues to do due diligence on access and utility easements. The county needs to complete a survey and prepare the easement documents.
Kaunahele Rd
Shadow: Is this road scheduled for widening?
County: The County of Kauai has no plans at this time to widen this road.
Ke Ala Hele Makalae
Shadow: When will the mauka spur of the path be complete?
County: An updated Innovative Readiness Training Grant is being processed by the department of defense for the project. A completion date cannot be determined at this time.
• Jerome Freitas can be reached at theshadow96751@gmail.com or 635-3528. Visit his website at http://theshadow96746.tripod.com.
