Public Meetings - Kauai County, Hawaii

This summary uses the provided meeting timestamp of 2026-11-02 20:45:00+00:00; the agenda and transcript label the session as October 21, 2026. The agenda listed an 8:31 AM start, and no adjournment time appears in the transcript. No official minutes were available, so this summary is based on the agenda and raw transcript. Consent Calendar - The Finance & Economic Development Committee approved the minutes of its October 7, 2026 meeting by voice vote, with no public testimony or discussion recorded. Public Comments & Testimony - Yelena Oakman, a real estate professional of many years, testified on Bill No. 2998. She said she has already been asked how the bill will increase construction costs and permit complexity, noting permits are already delayed for many months. She expressed deep respect for the planning and fire departments and said she supports fire prevention, but raised concerns about five-foot setbacks in residential areas, including a referenced area called Vayale Ali Estate, and about drainage, gravel, landscaping, and food-growing implications. She said more study is needed before making construction more complex. Discussion Items - The Planning Committee took up Bill No. 2998, Draft 3, a bill for an ordinance amending Chapters 15, 12, and 8 of the Kauaʻi County Code 1987, as amended, relating to wildfire and wildland urban interface (WUI), with the County of Kauaʻi as applicant (ZA-2026-6). The item had been deferred on October 7, 2026. A motion to approve and a second were made. - Committee Chair Bulasan supported passage, saying the committee worked to protect the community while considering unintended consequences, especially costs to new development. He said the effective date was pushed back to give the community and industry more time; the bill would affect new development, not existing homes; and vegetation references were included. He said the bill is not perfect but represents substantial work and is important after recent storms. - A non-committee council member said they agreed with wildfire protection but opposed the bill as written. They argued it must be practical, affordable, and financially responsible amid a housing crisis; said small independent contractors were not consulted and were afraid to testify; and said those contractors' cost estimates are significantly higher than those from large contractors. They cited $1.1 million in Facilities Reserve Charge (FRC) revenue from residential construction, not counting TVRs, equal to 3.5% of the Water Department's revenues, and said the department is already in deficit. They recalled Water Department manager Joe Tate's prior emotional testimony about insufficient capacity to fight fires, questioned the rush to pass the bill even though it takes effect October 1, 2027, and said they would not support it at the full council. - Councilmember Cowden asked Planning Director Hall whether the Board of Water Supply could withdraw its action to remove the FRC and fund the difference elsewhere. Director Hall said the board had already acted and the position was solid at that point, though as a single board member he said it could change. Another member noted that FRCs may look different in the future and that the current waiver is meant to protect single-family homeowners. - Councilmember Cowden said she would vote yes, citing planning department flexibility for subdivision-level fire prevention review and Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization flexibility in plantscape requirements. She said she still worries applicants may need extra consultants but wanted to move the bill forward. - A committee member said the planning and fire departments did good work, that the Water Department manager had been supportive based on their last understanding, and that after heavy discussion the bill should move to the next level. - Councilmember Kaneshiro supported the bill, describing it as an urban-interface measure because homes themselves add fuel. They said the fire department strongly supported it and the Water Department did not oppose it; that most mitigation measures are minor, with the five-foot home-hardening zone being the biggest cost; that they would prefer three feet if science supported it; and that the Water Department waived its FRC, which they described as $14,000 for a single-family home. They said total FRCs in the Water Department budget are a little over $2 million annually and that FRCs are likely to change and probably rise for single-family homes in the future. - Vice Chair Kualii said they still had concerns about the numbers but accepted that both cost estimates could be true. They were especially concerned about offsetting housing-cost increases through Water Department FRC exemptions and said the money should have been found elsewhere. They said they would vote no to signal that the county should not deepen the Water Department's financial hole and that future administrations and councils should support the department more. - Another council member supported acting before the new council begins on December 1, saying the incoming council would face a steep learning curve and that Kauaʻi would be the first county in the nation to make this decision. Chair Bulasan disagreed that urgency required passing the bill now, saying committees exist to resolve issues such as five feet versus three feet and alternative funding such as a real property tax exemption for hurricane safe rooms. He noted the bill's effective date of October 1, 2027 would give the new council 11 months. - Chair Bulasan closed with three stories: a classmate building an additional dwelling unit on his parents' property, a friend with property in Līhuʻe who has family in Lahaina, and himself as a renter who does not own a home. He said the bill adds costs but also protection, compared it to hurricane clips that he said probably saved about 70% of roofs in recent storms, and said he would vote in favor. Councilmember Kaneshiro added that the five-foot zone is based on fire science showing a vector within five feet, while three feet was their personal preference, and that annual review allows adaptation if fire science changes. Key Outcomes - The Planning Committee passed Bill No. 2998, Draft 3 by a 4-1 vote: Vice Chair Kualii voted no, and the other four committee members voted aye. The bill was advanced out of committee; a non-committee member said they would oppose it at the full council. - The bill's stated effective date is October 1, 2027, per Section 22 as described in the transcript. - The Finance & Economic Development Committee approved the October 7, 2026 committee meeting minutes by voice vote. No other business was recorded, and the meeting adjourned.

The Kaua‘i County Council convened on October 28, 2026, at 8:30 AM in the Council Chambers, Līhu‘e. The meeting opened with five public hearings on bills concerning liability claims, condominium property regimes, real property tax credits, landfill siting, and the ‘Āina Kupuna tax dedication. Following the public hearings, the Council addressed the regular agenda, including consent calendar items, communications, a claim, a committee report, bills for first reading, and a bill for second reading on wildfire/urban interface regulations. The Council also held three executive sessions. Public Hearings - Bill No. 3003 (General Liability Claims – $1,500,000): No testimony; hearing closed. - Bill No. 3004 (Condominium Property Regimes): One written testimony; no oral testimony; hearing closed. - Bill No. 3006 (Real Property Tax Credit – Application Window Extension): One written testimony; no oral testimony; hearing closed. - Bill No. 3007 (Landfill Prohibited Sites – 6-mile radius, 30-year limit): 18 written testimonies; multiple speakers testified. Positions were split: Support (Harley Broils, Earth Justice; Kawai Warren, Nā Kīka‘i Kai; Calvin Kajiwara; Karen Ono; Kiawni Smith, and others) argued the bill is a necessary step toward environmental justice for Kekaha, which has borne the island’s waste for decades. Opposition (Taryn Tizan) argued the bill was premature before evaluating ongoing procurement efforts and could lead to costly litigation. Several testifiers urged careful site selection and consideration of water quality impacts. - Bill No. 3008 (Āina Kupuna Real Property Tax Dedication): 26 written testimonies; many speakers. Strong support from Christina Ayu, Miley Ayu, Presley Wan, Elena Yokman, Megan Wong, William Wong, Lei Wan, Kaina Costa, and others, who described struggles to keep ancestral lands due to rising property taxes. Concerns about eligibility criteria (e.g., 999-year leases, LLC ownership, proof of descendancy) and the fiscal impact were raised by Karen Ono, Tina Sakamoto, and Sherry Cummings. Several testifiers asked for amendments to cover more families and simplify application processes. Consent Calendar - C 2026-257 (Quarterly Report on Settled Claims): Received. - C 2026-258 (Helicopter Pilot Positions – budget amendment): Received. - C 2026-259 (Aging Office – State funds for Nutrition Services): Approved. - C 2026-260 (Fire Dept. – Donation of 105 IFAKs from Kaua‘i Lifeguard Association): Approved with thank-you letter. - C 2026-261 (Land Exchange – Indemnification, General Provisions): Approved. - C 2026-262 (Land Exchange – Indemnification, Satisfaction/Waiver): Approved. - C 2026-264 (County Seal – new ordinance): Received. - C 2026-266 (Aging Office – Donations for Home-Delivered Meals): Approved with thank-you letters. - C 2026-267 (Insurance Proceeds – Kapule Building fire, up to $25M): Approved. Communications & Briefings - C 2026-258 & Proposed Draft Bill 3013 (Helicopter Pilot Positions): Fire Chief presented. The County will transition from contracted pilots to three county-employed pilots, saving money compared to the previous $854,000 annual contract. The $383,398 in the bill covers the remainder of FY 2027. Approved on first reading, public hearing set for November 25, 2026, and referred to Finance and Economic Development Committee. - C 2026-263 (Smith Garson, D.C. consultants briefing): Brett Garson and Kirsten Stratford Patterson recapped federal advocacy, including $8.54 million secured for four County projects in FY 2026 and pending FY 2027 requests. They discussed Hurricane Lowell recovery (public assistance granted, individual assistance denied, deadline to appeal Nov. 2), surface transportation reauthorization, Water Resources Development Act, and proposed rule changes (2030 census, uniform guidance). Council members asked about FEMA assistance, cesspool conversion funding, solid waste, and managed retreat. - C 2026-265 (Special Counsel funding for condemnation): Deferred to after executive session; later approved. - C 2026-268 (Claim by William H. Gilliam): Referred to County Attorney. Committee Report - CR-PL 2026-03 (Bill No. 2998, Draft 3 – Wildfire and Wildland Urban Interface): Received and approved. Discussion Items - Bill No. 2998, Draft 3 (Wildfire/WUI Code Amendments): Extensive debate. Chair Raposo and Councilmember Kulii opposed, citing increased housing costs, burden on water department (FRC revenue loss), and the County’s failure to manage roadside fuels. Councilmembers Cowden, Kanashiro, Holland, and Cavallio supported, arguing the measures improve fire resilience, help with insurance availability, and include cost offsets (e.g., FRC waiver). Councilmember Holland noted the difficulty of balancing regulation and freedom but emphasized life safety. Councilmember Kanashiro stressed the importance for new construction and the science behind the five-foot non-combustible zone. The bill was approved on second reading with a 5–2 vote (Ayes: Bolusan, Cowden, Holland, Kanashiro, Cavallio; Nays: Kulii, Chair Raposo). Key Outcomes - Approved on second reading: Bill No. 2998 (Wildfire/WUI) – passed 5–2. - Approved on first reading (public hearing Nov. 25): Proposed Draft Bills 3013 (Helicopter Pilots) and 3014 (County Seal). - Received and filed: Consent Calendar items, Communications, Claim referral, Committee Report. - Executive Sessions: Held on pending/denied claims (ES-1172), condemnation proceedings (ES-1173), and employment matters (ES-1174). No public action taken. - Next steps: Public hearings on Bills 3013 and 3014 scheduled for November 25, 2026. Continued work on pending federal appropriations and Hurricane Lowell recovery.

The meeting convened at 8:31 AM on October 13, 2026, and covered multiple agenda items including subdivision map approval, contested case petitions, a major affordable housing project (Puhi Pili Kai), beekeeping regulations, accessory rental unit extensions, enforcement penalty increases, third-party hosting platform regulation, and several deferrals. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda unanimously. - Approved minutes from the July 14, 2026 and August 11, 2026 Subdivision Committee meetings. Public Comments & Testimony - S-227-1 (Grow Farm Companies): No public testimony during the subdivision portion. - SMA/Use Permit (Ebslin Trust): No public testimony at the hearing; written testimony from Rosalind Cummings was considered. - Puhi Pili Kai Affordable Housing Project: Multiple community members testified. Ricky Cassidy, an independent researcher, cited statistics that "one in five people need affordable housing" and expressed concerns over traffic study timing during COVID. Alton Abimoto opposed the loss of a public park, arguing the sewer line benefit was overstated and that the traffic study was flawed. Other testifiers voiced support, including a school principal who emphasized the critical need for teacher housing and how the project would allow educators to walk to nearby schools. A representative from the Filipino Cultural Center expressed openness to partnership. - Beekeeping Ordinance (ZA 2026-8): Ariel Bishop (second-generation beekeeper) and Robin Murayama (small business beekeeper) testified in support, noting the balance between responsible beekeeping and protecting neighboring properties. Discussion Items - Subdivision Map Approval S-227-1 (Grow Farm Companies / ADC): The proposal consolidates and resubdivides three lots into three lots totaling approximately 6,079.03 acres, primarily to convey lot 2 (about 1,076 acres) to the State of Hawaii Agribusiness Development Corporation. The Kapakai analysis was updated after the August 2026 deferral. During discussion, concerns were raised that lineal descendant Kamealoha was not interviewed. The applicant agreed to include Kamealoha’s testimony in the analysis. The committee added a condition to that effect and gave tentative approval. - Petition to Intervene (Ebslin Trust SMA Case): Two petitions were considered. Rosalind Cummings’ petition was denied for procedural deficiencies (no filing fee, no certificate of service). The Garcia Neveu petition was granted; the Commission found the neighbors had standing due to proximity and potential impact on coastal views and public trust. The case was referred to a contested case hearing. The Commission briefly entered executive session before voting. - Puhi Pili Kai – Affordable Housing Project (PDU, Variance, Class 4 Zoning): The project proposes 60 rental units (12 studios, 30 one-bedroom, 18 two-bedroom) on a 2.52-acre former park site across from Kauai Community College. The Housing Agency and developer Ikenikea Development presented the project as addressing the county’s severe housing shortage, targeting 30%–120% AMI households with a preference for educators. Key discussions focused on traffic impacts, loss of a public park (a larger park two blocks away will be improved), and community benefits (new sidewalks, sewer trunk line). The Commission added three conditions: (1) consult with DOT and Public Works to identify traffic mitigations, (2) implement archaeological monitoring during ground disturbance (already part of SHPD plan), and (3) allow public use of open gathering spaces and tot lot to the extent legally possible. The project was approved. - Beekeeping Ordinance (ZA 2026-8): The department presented revisions: tiered hive density (lots ≤1,000 sq ft: 8 hives; lots 1,001–20,000 sq ft: 15 hives), revised swarm language, nighttime lighting clarification, and required signage. After testimony, the Commission approved the ordinance as amended. - ARU Extension (ZA 2027-1): The proposal makes the five-year extension for Accessory Rental Units indefinite. The department recommended approval and it passed unanimously. - Civil Fines Ordinance (ZA 2027-2): This ordinance would raise the maximum fine for zoning violations from $10,000/day to a higher amount for luxury transient accommodations and commercial retreats on agricultural land. The department requested a deferral to January 12, 2027, for further legal review and stakeholder input. Granted. - Third-Party Hosting Platform Regulation (ZA 2027-3): Proposed to regulate platforms like Airbnb/VRBO, but the department noted existing successful partnerships with major platforms (which have reduced illegal rentals from 1,500 to <30). Deferred to January 12, 2027, to consult with those partners. - Numila Plantation Camp Amendments: Two items (GPA 2025-2 and A-2025-2) were withdrawn because the landowner identified a different TMK for a proposed 14.9-acre expansion. ZA 2025-4 (amending the existing camp) was deferred to January 12, 2027, to be heard with new zoning amendments. - Shoreline Setback Determination Appeal (SSD 2027-3): The landowner and appellant agreed to a 60-day window; deferred to December 8, 2026. Key Outcomes - Subdivision S-227-1 (Grow Farm/ADC): Approved (tentative) with added condition to include Kamealoha’s testimony in the Kapakai analysis. - Cummings Intervention: Denied. - Garcia Neveu Intervention: Granted; case referred to contested case hearing. - Puhi Pili Kai Project: Approved (PDU, variance, class 4 zoning) with three conditions. - Beekeeping Ordinance (ZA 2026-8): Approved as amended. - ARU Extension (ZA 2027-1): Approved. - Civil Fines Ordinance (ZA 2027-2): Deferred to January 12, 2027. - Third-Party Platform Regulation (ZA 2027-3): Deferred to January 12, 2027. - Numila GPA and A: Withdrawn; ZA 2025-4 deferred. - Shoreline Appeal: Deferred to December 8, 2026.

(Note: The meeting agenda and transcript indicate the meeting occurred on October 7, 2026, but the provided date of October 9, 2026 is used as instructed.) Consent Calendar - Planning Committee Minutes of September 2, 2026: Approved. - Finance & Economic Development Committee Minutes of September 2, 2026: Approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Bill 2998 (Wildfire/WUI Ordinance): No registered public speakers. - Bill 3002 (Firefighters Settlement): A former County Director of Finance testified, expressing concerns that the settlement may undermine arbitration awards and set a precedent for other bargaining units, and questioning whether the employer group adequately defended its position. Discussion Items - Planning Committee – Bill 2998 (Wildfire/WUI Ordinance): Council members debated the bill extensively. Key points included: - Fiscal impact on the Department of Water due to a proposed exemption from the Facilities Reserve Charge (FRC) for single-family homes, estimated at up to $500,000 annually. - Cost of fire-hardening measures, such as a five-foot gravel perimeter. The Planning Department presented contractor quotes ranging from $4 to $8 per square foot, while the Contractors Association quoted $15–$20 per square foot. - Concerns that the bill does not address landscape fuel management or water system deficiencies, with some members advocating for a broader approach. - An amendment was introduced and adopted to add flexibility for landscaping by referencing the “Fire Resilient Landscape Guide for Hawai‘i” and allowing alternative plans approved by the planning department and fire chief. - Discussion of the bill’s effectiveness, with experts from Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization and Underwriters Laboratories explaining that ember-driven fires require hardening the built environment, and that the bill is one component of a comprehensive wildfire strategy. - Concerns that the bill might increase costs and slow housing development, though proponents argued safety measures are necessary and the FRC exemption offsets some costs. - Finance & Economic Development Committee – Bill 3002 (Firefighters Settlement): Committee members discussed a settlement agreement resolving prohibited practice complaints between the employer group and the firefighters’ union. The settlement modifies terms of a prior arbitration award. Some members expressed concerns about process and precedent but acknowledged that decisions at higher levels had already been made. Key Outcomes - Bill 2998 (Wildfire/WUI Ordinance): The committee voted to defer the bill to a future meeting (motion passed 3–1). The bill had been amended to incorporate a flexible landscaping reference. Deferral was intended to allow additional cost data collection. - Bill 3002 (Firefighters Settlement): The committee voted unanimously (6–0, with one member excused) to approve the bill, forwarding it to the full Council.

The Planning Committee and Finance & Economic Development Committee met on September 2, 2026. The primary focus was Bill No. 2998, Draft 1, relating to wildfire and wildland urban interface (WUI) requirements. After extensive discussion, four amendments, and public testimony, the Planning Committee voted 3-2 to defer the bill to the next committee meeting. The Finance Committee unanimously approved minutes and two ordinances (Bill 3000 and Bill 3001). Consent Calendar - Approved Minutes of August 19, 2026 Planning Committee Meeting. - Approved Minutes of August 19, 2026 Finance & Economic Development Committee Meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Tommy Pasarella (Kauai La Hui) – Opposed the bill, calling it a violation of the oath of office and the 14th Amendment. Urged shredding the bill and starting over. - Milani Pimentel and Anna Rice (Hawaii Habitat for Humanity) – Expressed full support for the bill as amended. They stated that the FRC waiver helps keep homes affordable for low-income families and that the small increase in build materials can be absorbed. - Brian Bowers (Artistic Builders Corporation) – Supported the principle but raised concerns about setback requirements, especially for small lots. Suggested clearer wording for discretionary elements. - Yelena Oakman – Raised concerns about increased building costs affecting low-income housing and asked about the impact of the five-foot hardscape on usable lot space. - Anna Modes – Strongly opposed the five-foot hardscape requirement, arguing it leads to excessive concrete, increased heat, and reduced percolation. Urged the council to reconsider and fund water infrastructure instead. - Sandy O'Shaughnessy – Emphasized that wild grasses and trees (e.g., guinea grass, albizia) are a major fire hazard and should be addressed, not just home hardening. Discussion Items - Bill No. 2998, Draft 1 – Wildfire and WUI Ordinance: - Chair Reposal (non-committee) presented cost estimates from the Contractors Association of Kauai (CAK): $16,850 additional cost for a 1,000 sq ft home ($16.85/sq ft), with concrete hardscape at $90,000 and aggregate at $40,000. He contrasted this with administration estimates of $6/sq ft. He questioned the $14,000 FRC waiver and its impact on the Department of Water, which receives $1.1 million annually from single-family FRCs. He proposed deferral. - Councilmember Cowden raised concerns about vegetation requirements, arguing that the bill prioritizes fire prevention over regenerative soil practices and food sustainability. She noted that wetscapes (healthy, watered yards) are cooler and less flammable than dry hardscape. - Chief Mike Gibson (Fire Department) emphasized wind-driven fire risks, climate change, and the need for island-wide requirements because embers can travel miles. He supported the bill's intent but noted that debris and clutter are also major fuels. - Councilmember Kagawa clarified that the five-foot hardscape and home hardening apply only to new structures or additions; existing homes are not affected. The 30-foot setback provisions apply only to new subdivisions. - Councilmember Cowden questioned enforcement and clarified that landscaping requirements apply only to larger subdivisions, enforced via homeowners' associations. - Director Adam Roversi (Housing) stated that while the bill adds costs, the FRC savings offset them for affordable housing projects. He supported the bill. - Director Joe Tate (Department of Water) gave an emotional statement about the underfunded water system, noting that FRC revenue is critical but that loss of life is more important. He supported any bill that minimizes loss of life but noted that the water department cannot absorb further revenue loss. - Councilmember Carvalho proposed and defended four amendments (see Key Outcomes). - Discussion on cost disparity: Administration provided hardscape quotes from five contractors ranging from $4.33 to $8 per sq ft, disputing CAK's $40-$90 estimates. - The effective date was changed from July 1, 2027 to October 1, 2027 via amendment. - Finance Committee Items: - Bill No. 3000 – Collective bargaining agreement for Bargaining Unit 15 (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2029). Approved unanimously. - Bill No. 3001 – Budget amendment for $50,000 for temporary voter service center workers. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Planning Committee deferred Bill No. 2998 by a vote of 3-2 (Councilmembers Cowden, Kaneshiro, and Kuali voting aye; Councilmembers Cavalio and Bulosan voting no). The bill will be heard again at the next committee meeting in two weeks. - Four amendments to Bill 2998 were adopted: 1. Housekeeping corrections (e.g., image alignment, deck flashing clarification, setback reduction for property lines). 2. Alternative to five-foot hardscape: non-combustible walls with metal shutters can substitute for the ground cover requirement (proposed by Councilmember Holland). 3. Periodic review amendment: requires the Planning Director, County Engineer, and Fire Chief to study whether irrigated landscapes or other vegetation can serve as alternatives to hardscape, with results incorporated into annual reviews (proposed by Councilmember Holland). 4. Gutters clarification: added “if installed” to the gutter material requirement (proposed by Chair Reposal). - Finance Committee approved Bill 3000 and Bill 3001 unanimously on roll call votes.

The Kaua‘i County Council met on August 26, 2026, at 8:30 AM in the Council Chambers. The meeting began with a special certificate presentation honoring Pakele, the last known wild ‘Akikiki bird, followed by routine business including approvals of communications, committee reports, and second reading of Bill No. 2999. No public testimony was offered on any item. Certificate Presentation: Honoring the Last Wild ‘Akikiki Council Members Holland and Kuali sponsored a certificate and proclamation to commemorate the life of Pakele, the last known wild ‘Akikiki (honeycreeper) on Kaua‘i. Nalani Ka‘ao‘iroon from the Office of Economic Development read the mayor’s proclamation detailing Pakele’s breeding efforts and significance. Field biologist Justin (last name not given) spoke emotionally about Pakele’s persistence, noting that she was first documented in 2020 and had 13 nesting attempts with six fledglings in a single year. Her last sighting was August 29, 2025. Justin confirmed that while no wild ‘Akikiki remain on Kaua‘i, several dozen exist in captive breeding flocks on Maui and Hawai‘i Island. Council members expressed gratitude for conservation efforts. Public Hearing Notices - Bill No. 3000: A bill approving a collective bargaining agreement for Bargaining Unit 15 (Ocean Safety Officers) for July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029. The notice was read; no public testimony was offered, and the motion to approve the agenda item passed without discussion. - Bill No. 3001: Listed on the agenda as a public hearing for amending the operating budget to add $50,000 for Temporary Voter Service Center Workers. This bill was not mentioned in the meeting transcript. Communications (Consent Approvals) - C 2026-203: Approved a request from the Planning Director to apply for, receive, and expend $500,000 from the Hawai‘i State Department of Transportation for the Safe Routes to School Coordinator position for five years. Unanimously approved with no testimony. - C 2026-204: Approved a request from the Executive on Aging to receive and expend $129,802 in federal funds for the Rural Health Transformation Program. Unanimously approved. - C 2026-205: Approved acceptance of a donated Honda ATV (value $10,061.25) from the Kaua‘i Lifeguard Association for use at Hā‘ena Beach Park Tower. Councilmember Paserel Lahoy questioned the necessity but later supported it, suggesting using the ATV for recruiting signage. Councilmember Cowden noted the donation is largely funded by the visitor industry. Chair Opposal thanked the association, noting over $1 million in donated assets over the years. The motion to approve with a thank-you letter passed unanimously. - C 2026-206: Approved indemnification and unspecified future obligations clauses in TransUnion’s terms and conditions for fraud prevention of real property tax relief programs. Unanimously approved. Committee Reports - CR-PL 2026-02: Planning Committee report regarding a briefing on the Lahaina Fire Incident Analysis Report (Phases 2 and 3) and implications for Kaua‘i wildfire vulnerability. Approved without discussion. - CR-FED 2026-17: Finance & Economic Development Committee report recommending approval of Bill No. 2999. Approved without discussion. Second Reading: Bill No. 2999 A bill to amend Chapter 6 of the Kaua‘i County Code to establish the Special-Duty Police Officer Program Fee Account. The Finance Committee had recommended approval. No public testimony was offered. A roll-call vote resulted in 7 ayes (Councilmembers Bulosan, Cavallio, Cowden, Holland, Kaneshiro, Kuali, and Chair Opposal). The bill passed. Key Outcomes - Certificate honoring Pakele accepted. - All four communications approved unanimously. - Two committee reports approved. - Bill No. 2999 passed on second reading with 7-0 vote. - Bill No. 3000 public hearing notice accepted; no substantive action on Bill No. 3001 was recorded.

On August 19, 2026, the Kauaʻi County Council held a combined committee meeting (Planning Committee, Finance & Economic Development Committee, and Committee of the Whole) starting at 8:30 AM. The Planning Committee received a detailed briefing on the Lahaina Fire Incident Analysis Report (Phase Two) and Forward-Looking Report (Phase Three) and debated Bill No. 2998, which would establish wildfire and Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) standards for new construction. The Finance Committee approved Bill No. 2999 creating a special-duty police officer program fee account, and the Committee of the Whole approved prior meeting minutes. Briefing on Lahaina Fire Reports - Derek Alkonis (Senior Research Program Manager, Fire Safety Research Institute, Underwriters Laboratories) and Elizabeth Pickett (Co-Executive Director, Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization) presented findings from their independent analysis of the August 8, 2023 Lahaina fire, which killed 102 people and destroyed over 2,000 structures. - The briefing emphasized that wind-driven embers, not a moving fire front, were the primary cause of the conflagration. Only 200 yards of grass burned, but the community ignited due to ember intrusion and the lack of fire-resilient building materials and defensible space. - Analysis revealed 84 findings and 140 recommendations, later distilled into 10 priority areas. Key vulnerabilities included combustible roofs, unprotected vents, wooden siding, dense vegetation near homes, and narrow evacuation routes. The presence of a 5-foot non-combustible perimeter, non-combustible siding, and tempered glazing were identified as critical mitigation measures. - Presenters noted that Kauaʻi faces greater wildfire risk than 91% of U.S. counties, and that August is the peak fire month. The 2024 Hanapēpē Heights fire threatened a historic plantation camp, underscoring local vulnerability. Public Comments & Testimony - Doug Haig (representing Kauaʻi Habitat for Humanity) and Donna Rice (Board President) testified in support of Bill 2998, noting the board’s support for fire-resistant materials to improve safety and insurance affordability. They expressed confidence in the planning department’s responsiveness to affordable housing concerns and emphasized that the cost increase is modest. - No other oral testimony was offered; written testimony received during lunch raised concerns about cost and water department impacts, which were acknowledged but not read aloud. Discussion Items: Wildfire & WUI Ordinance (Bill 2998) - Mayor Derek Kawakami introduced the bill as a proactive, science-based response to the Lahaina tragedy, stating the county learned from the disaster rather than reacting hastily. He acknowledged a modest increase in construction costs (approximately $6,700 per home, less than 2%) but called it a necessary investment in life safety. - Fire Chief, EMA Director, and Planning Department staff detailed the ordinance’s requirements: class A roof, ember-resistant vents (1/8-inch mesh), 6-inch metal flashing at wall base, tempered glass, 5-foot non-combustible perimeter (gravel, stone, or concrete), and for subdivisions of 10+ units, defensible space standards (5–30 ft clearance) and second access evacuation routes. - Cost study by Unlimited Construction showed actual material cost increase of only about $2/sq ft; the Department of Water proposed a facilities reserve charge (FRC) exemption of approximately $14,000 per new single-family home if the bill passes, effectively offsetting the added construction cost for most homes under 2,000 sq ft. - Insurance expert Doug Green (Doki Wildfire Solutions) explained that the ordinance aligns with insurance industry demands for verified risk reduction at the parcel and neighborhood level. Without such standards, insurers may exit the market, leading to uninsurable homes, mortgage loss, and housing market instability. - Council members raised concerns about: the financial impact of the FRC exemption on the water department (which is already struggling), the lack of a certification pathway for existing homes, the mandating of the 5-foot hardscape without alternatives (e.g., irrigated grass), and enforcement of defensible space in perpetuity. Councilmember Holland advocated for incentives over mandates and asked for more flexible options. Councilmember Coneshiro noted that Maui has not pursued a similar building code due to cost concerns, though they are working on vegetation regulations. - Two amendments were adopted: (1) a clean-up amendment clarifying scope (only new additions require hardening, not whole house), updating screening language, and adding a requirement for annual review of standards by planning director, building chief, and fire chief; (2) an amendment changing the effective date from upon approval to July 1, 2027, to allow a transition period. Committee of the Whole - The minutes of the August 5, 2026 Committee of the Whole meeting were approved. Key Outcomes - Bill 2998 was deferred to the September 2, 2026 Planning Committee meeting to allow further discussion on remaining concerns (cost, water department impact, alternative compliance methods, and potential linkages to future certification programs). - Bill 2999 (special-duty police officer program fee account) was approved by the Finance & Economic Development Committee without opposition. - The Committee of the Whole approved the August 5, 2026 minutes. - No action was taken on executive session items, which remain confidential.

The Kauai County Council convened on August 12, 2026, at 8:30 AM in the Council Chambers, Lihue. The meeting opened with words of wisdom from Reverend Deacon Ronald Jane of St. Theresa Parish, followed by a special presentation recognizing the Understory Alliance. The council conducted public hearings on two bills, approved multiple routine items, debated a resolution to lower speed limits near a school, and held an executive session to approve a settlement agreement with the Hawaii Fire Fighters Association. Special Presentation - The council presented a certificate to the Understory Alliance for its first anniversary. The Alliance, in partnership with the Department of Parks and Recreation, planted a community forest garden at Wailua Homesteads Park featuring 97 plant species, including rare native plants. Executive Director Sari Pastor and Ryan Campbell described the garden's low-maintenance design, use of plant guilds, and educational outreach including a plant mapping app. Council members expressed strong support for the project and its contributions to food security, native plant access, and community stewardship. Public Hearings - Bill 2998 (Wildfire and Wildland Urban Interface Code): A bill to amend Chapters 15, 12, and 8 of the Kauai County Code to establish wildfire and WUI standards for enhanced public safety. The council received eight pieces of written testimony; no oral testimony was offered. The hearing was closed. - Bill 2999 (Special-Duty Police Officer Program Fee Account): A bill to establish a fee account for the Kauai Police Department’s special-duty officer program, covering traffic control, security, and crowd control. No oral testimony was offered. The hearing was closed. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the minutes of the July 8, 2026 meeting. - C 2026-192 (Communication from County Engineer regarding speed limit resolutions for Pu‘u Road, Maka Road, Polaris Road, and Hokua Road) was moved to receive. Communications & Claims - C 2026-193 (Fire Fighters Bargaining Unit 11 settlement cost items): Council received testimony from Celeste Snip, Government Affairs Legislative Liaison for the Hawaii Fire Fighters Association, who expressed support for the settlement. The council moved to receive the communication. A remote testifier (Kaina) could not be heard. - C 2026-194 (Rain Bird Global Service Plan for Wailua Golf Course irrigation): Approved after brief discussion. Pat Borders, Director of Parks and Recreation, confirmed the system is already in use and saves water and money. - C 2026-195 (First Data Payment Solutions for DMV online payments): Approved. - C 2026-196 (Letter of Agreement with Kauai Medical Clinic for Hepatitis B vaccinations): Approved. Council clarified that the vaccination series is voluntary; employees may decline by signing a waiver. - C 2026-197 (Cooperative Personnel Services test rental agreement): Approved. - C 2026-198 (Scribe Software Terms of Use): Approved. - Claims (C 2026-199 through C 2026-202): Four claims for property damage, vehicle damage, and overcharged water bill were referred to the County Attorney for disposition and report. Committee Reports - Committee of the Whole reports CR-COW 2026-03 (briefing on Malama Pono closure) and CR-COW 2026-04 (update on Kekaha Landfill Cell 3 Vertical Expansion) were approved. Resolutions - Resolution 2026-16 (Eminent domain for pedestrian beach access to ‘Aliomanu Bay, Anahola): The council voted unanimously to defer the item. - Resolution 2026-25 (Speed limits for Pu‘u Road, Maka Road, Polaris Road, and Hokua Road, Koloa District): Chief Engineer Michael Moore presented the proposal to lower speed limits to 15 mph on portions of these roads near Kalaheo Elementary School (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) and to establish a 25 mph limit on the remainder of Pu‘u Road. Council members questioned the lack of public outreach and noted community requests for traffic calming. Moore explained that the changes were based on engineering studies and that traffic calming would be evaluated in a future sidewalk project. The resolution passed unanimously on a roll call vote. Executive Session - The council entered Executive Session ES-1171 to discuss the proposed settlement agreement for Hawaii Fire Fighters Association Bargaining Unit 11 (BU-11), which resolves two Prohibited Practices Complaints filed with the Hawaii Labor Relations Board. The session was held pursuant to HRS §92-4 and §92-5(a)(4). After the closed session, the council announced that it had voted to approve the settlement agreement. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approvals: Minutes, consent calendar items, communications C 2026-192 through C 2026-198, claims referral, committee reports, and Resolution 2026-25. - Deferred: Resolution 2026-16 (beach access easement). - Approved in Executive Session: BU-11 settlement agreement with Hawaii Fire Fighters Association. - Bills for first reading (Bill 2998 and Bill 2999) were introduced via public hearings; no further action was taken at this meeting.

The Kauai County Planning Commission met on August 11, 2026, to consider numerous subdivision applications, zoning amendments, land use permits, and appeals. The meeting spanned a full day, including a morning subdivision committee session and afternoon planning commission deliberations. Key actions included approvals of several subdivisions, deferral of controversial zoning bills on family definitions and apiaries, approval of an eight-unit affordable housing project by Habitat for Humanity with conditions, and referral of a shoreline setback appeal to a contested case. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the June 9, 2026 subdivision committee meeting. - Approved the agenda as amended (two changes: reclassification of an item and scheduling). Public Comments & Testimony - Subdivision S2026-13 (Littlestone): Kanani Kagawa testified questioning why a Kapakai (cultural impact) analysis was not required, noting the parcel is near potential cultural areas. - Subdivision S2026-15 (Kiyohuna): Kanani Kagawa again raised the lack of Kapakai analysis for the roundabout area, citing cultural significance. - Subdivision S2027-1 (Grow Farm): Kanani Kagawa and Alba Hini Keo, a lineal descendant, testified that the Kapakai analysis was absent and that their families had not been consulted on the 6,000-acre subdivision; they requested time to review. - Shoreline Setback SSD-2027-3: Karen Diamond appealed the director's action, arguing the exemption was inappropriate because the house was rebuilt without permits, the state rejected the shoreline certification, and public views were blocked. - Habitat for Humanity Project (PDU): Amy Blackstead testified about existing flooding on her property and opposed the project; Jeff Olson opposed citing traffic and drainage; Kanani Kagawa supported the project, calling it essential affordable housing. - ZA 2026-3/4 (Family/Dormitory Definitions): Councilmember Felicia Cowden testified in support, arguing that without a cap on unrelated individuals, neighborhoods become commercialized and workforce housing undermines local homeownership. - ZA 2026-8 (Apiaries): Ariel Bishop, Ashia Carter, Robin Murayama, Max Richardson, and Javid Maksut testified in strong support, highlighting pollination benefits, food security, and the need to protect Kauai’s varroa-free bee population. - ZA 2026-5 (CPR Public Access): Ian Jung suggested adding a six-unit threshold consistent with subdivision rules. Discussion Items - Subdivision Approvals: The commission approved two preliminary subdivisions (S2026-13, S2026-15) after staff confirmed they were developed parcels not requiring Kapakai analysis. Subdivision S2027-1 (Grow Farm) was deferred to September to allow commission review of a Kapakai analysis submitted that morning; the applicant offered tentative approval with conditions, but the commission voted to defer. - Extension Requests: Four time extensions for subdivisions (S2025-4, S2025-5, S2025-6, S2025-7) were all granted through April 8, 2027. - Final Subdivision: S2025-2 (CoCula Parcel Q) was approved after clarification that workforce housing requirements were met under the master plan. - Shoreline Setback Appeal (SSD-2027-3): Deferred to September to allow the landowner to respond to the late appeal filing. - Habitat for Humanity Project: After extensive debate on drainage, the project was tabled for engineering testimony. The county engineer explained the drainage review required two-year storm detention. The commission ultimately approved the project with 13 conditions, including an amendment that any future wildland urban interface ordinance would supersede existing fire-safety conditions. - Zoning Amendments: - ZA 2026-3 (Family Definition) and ZA 2026-4 (Dormitory Definition) were deferred to October to explore alternatives; the department recommended disapproval due to enforcement challenges, but the commission opted to continue work. - ZA 2026-8 (Apiaries) was deferred to September to craft additional public safety measures such as signage and epinephrine availability. - ZA 2026-5 (CPR Public Access) was approved as amended by the Office of County Attorney. - ZA 2026-7 (West Kauai Plan Amendment) was postponed due to insufficient notification. - General Business – Freeman Petition: A petition to revoke a non-conforming use certificate and appeal of a zoning violation for a vacation rental were jointly referred to a contested case hearing officer (CC 2027-1) on a motion that passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Subdivisions S2026-13 and S2026-15 approved unanimously. - Subdivision S2027-1 deferred to September meeting; motion passed. - Four subdivision extension requests approved unanimously. - Final subdivision S2025-2 approved unanimously. - Shoreline setback appeal SSD-2027-3 deferred to September. - Habitat for Humanity project approved (4-0) with amended conditions. - ZA 2026-3 and ZA 2026-4 deferred to October (4-0). - ZA 2026-8 deferred to September (4-0). - ZA 2026-5 approved (3-0, one excused). - ZA 2026-7 postponed due to notice failure. - Freeman appeal referred to contested case (4-0).