Keeping short-term rentals closed
LIHU‘E — Before Mayor Derek Kawakami even shut down short-term vacation rentals and homestays in April, Kathy Reams changed the title of her Kaua‘i Beach Resort room to “CLOSED 3/14/20-5/31/20 #stayhome #besafe #travellater #inthistogether.” She also put a thorough description of the island’s regulations for travelers.
Mayor tightens budget belt
The ramifications of the coronavirus pandemic have tightened the belt of the county government, and it will be reflected in the fiscal year 2021 budget as revenue streams remain uncertain.
Finding free food funding
During an emergency, there are three main areas of focus: shelter, water and food.
Breaking down $2 million EOC spending
Since Mayor Derek Kawakami proclaimed an emergency on March 4, the first actions were centered on keeping the count of confirmed cases of COVID-19 on Kaua‘i down, and protecting residents and first responders.
Continuing to fund COVID-19 efforts
LIHU‘E — Even as restrictions to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 loosen around the island and state, efforts to provide residents with essential goods and operations continue.
County moves to 4 day work week
LIHU‘E — On Monday, some county offices began implementing a temporary four-day, 10-hour day week as a way to reduce government employee movement while providing operating services to the public. But some elected officials have expressed their disapproval.
Two inmate test negative for COVID-19
LIHU‘E — The 128-operational capacity Kaua‘i Community Correctional Center had 143 inmates on March 2. In two months, this number has dropped to 85 as of May 1, according to the Department of Public Safety.
Frustrated employers help furloughed employees
HANALEI — Vanessa Castro was set to move to California in May. Six months pregnant, she planned to move with her young daughter and boyfriend to be closer to family. The coronavirus pandemic changed that.
Two caught sneaking onto Kaua‘i
LIHU‘E — The Kaua‘i Police Department is currently investigating an incident involving an unauthorized small plane from Maui that dropped off two passengers in Kaua‘i on Sunday.
Kaua‘i Humane Society ends feral-cat intake
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Kaua‘i Humane Society has halted its intake of feral cats.
Foot chase in Kapa‘a
KAPA‘A — A theft reported in Lihu‘e led to a foot chase in Kapa‘a that resulted in the arrest of two male suspects yesterday morning.
100,000 masks brought to Kaua‘i
LIHU‘E — On Tuesday, “Free Masks” signs could be seen from the highway driving up into Tamba Surf Shop.
St. William Food Pantry expands with couple’s dedication
On a recent Friday morning, Sam and Carolyn Knepper arrived at St. William Church early to get ready for food and clothing distribution.
The team reopening Kaua‘i
Recovering from the coronavirus pandemic will take time, but the county has been discussing short- and long-term goals since the beginning.
A resident’s tips for traveling between islands
LIHU‘E — Gov. David Ige’s Fourth Supplementary Proclamation instituted a 14-day mandatory quarantine at the end of March for interisland travel, similar to the same quarantine for out-of-state travelers are subjected.
Kaua‘i COVID-19 Q&A: Where to volunteer
Q: Kauaians want to help each other, such as during the recent floods. But with this virus, many rules of self-isolation make it difficult to give. People have little money to spare, but really want to help those who may not have enough food, or may need clothes. Is any group organizing ways for the people of Kaua‘i to help out each other without breaking the emergency rules, and how are they communicating to the community?
Council eyes reducing current budget
As the county anticipates less incoming revenue, some previously approved infrastructure projects may need to be put on hold.
Falling through the cracks
As a New York resident left Kaua‘i for O‘ahu earlier this month, he needed to sign two documents stating he understood the state’s 14-day mandatory self-quarantine, have his temperature checked and submit his permanent address, contact information and identification numbers.
Kaua‘i COVID-19 Q&A: Thrift stores
Editor’s Note: Questions about stay-at-home orders can be submitted to tinyurl.com/TGIQ-A and The Garden Island staff will do our best to find you an answer by contacting county officials and Kauai District Health Officer Dr. Janet Berreman. Be aware these answers are informed with the latest directives from officials and can change as official rules and recommendations change. Contact the Hawai‘i Department of Health or your physician for official COVID-19 symptoms and steps to take if you think you have the virus.
Council addresses housing, Sunshine Law
LIHU‘E — Written testimony regarding the lifted Sunshine Laws was brought to the attention of the Kaua‘i County Council’s at its April 22 meeting.