Kauai County Council Meeting - February 4, 2026

The Kauai County Council met on February 4, 2026, beginning with a prayer and invocation by Pastor Matt Higa of New Hope Kauai. The council approved the agenda and minutes from the January 7, 2026 meeting, conducted an interview for a Planning Commission appointment, held an executive session to discuss a real property tax bill, and advanced several legislative items including shoreline setback and coastal protection ordinances.

Consent Calendar

• C 2026-26: Communication from the Fire Chief requesting approval of a Cradlepoint user agreement for secure cellular connectivity in fire department vehicles. Received unanimously.
• C 2026-30: Communication from the Director of Parks and Recreation requesting approval of indemnification in a Tesla wall connector building services agreement for county-owned EV charging stations. Received unanimously.
• C 2026-31: Communication from the County Clerk transmitting a claim by Turbin Shoe Had Height as subrogee for Melvin Sea Will for personal injuries and medical bills. Received unanimously.
• Resolution 2026-02: Confirming mayoral appointment to the Fire Commission for Jenny Jahovich. Approved 6-0-1 (Councilmember Cowden excused).

Public Comments & Testimony

• Lonnie Cycles testified on Proposed Draft Bill 2981 (real property tax), expressing concern that the bill concentrates excessive power in an appointed official rather than an elected one. He noted ambiguity regarding refunds under $5,000 and whether the bill allows tax adjustments without a formal appeal, and called for more transparency in reporting changes.
• Lonnie Cycles also testified on Proposed Draft Bill 2984 (shoreline setback), praising the planning department's work and suggesting that the definition of Mālama ʻāina and Mākaʻi should be moved earlier in the definitions. He thanked the county for protecting the shoreline.
• Karen Diamond testified in strong support of Proposed Draft Bill 2984, thanking Council Chair and Committee Chair Carvalho. She supported all changes made by the Planning Commission, stating the bill strengthens existing shoreline setback regulations, reduces coastal hazard exposure, and preserves critical coastal resources.
• The council noted receiving two written testimonies from Pacific Resource Partnership and the Carpenters Union that supported the concept of shoreline protection but opposed the specific limitations in Bill 2984.

Discussion Items

• Planning Commission Interview – Dan Giovanni: The council interviewed Dan Giovanni, a former senior vice president at Hawaiian Electric Company with extensive engineering and land-use experience, who currently serves as a holdover member on the State Land Use Commission. Giovanni expressed his commitment to balanced, legal decision-making, respecting the Kapakai analysis, water issues, and environmental laws. Councilmembers praised his qualifications and dedication, and he indicated he would resign from the state commission if appointed. The appointment is subject to a final vote at the next council meeting.
• Executive Session: The council held a 30-minute executive session (out of order) to consult with the County Attorney on Proposed Draft Bill 2981 (real property tax), discussing the council's powers, duties, and liabilities. No disclosure was made as it would frustrate the purpose of the session.
• Proposed Draft Bill 2969 (Shoreline Setback): First reading of the original bill referred to the Planning Commission on July 16, 2025. The council received it and noted the Planning Commission had returned a separate amended bill (2984). The motion to receive passed 6-0-1.
• Proposed Draft Bill 2981 (Real Property Tax): First reading approved 6-0-1, scheduled for public hearing on March 11, 2026, and referred to the Finance and Economic Development Committee.
• Proposed Draft Bill 2984 (Shoreline Setback – Planning Commission Recommendation): First reading approved 6-0-1, scheduled for public hearing on March 11, 2026, and referred to the Planning Committee. Councilmembers expressed strong support, highlighting the need to curb shoreline encroachment, protect public beach access, and stop illegal construction. Councilmember Kaneshiro noted a site visit to the North Shore revealed widespread construction and artificial vegetation growth. Council Chair expressed concern about opposition from powerful interests and urged community backing.

Key Outcomes

• Dan Giovanni nomination for Planning Commission (business seat) will proceed to final approval at the next council meeting; Giovanni will resign from the State Land Use Commission if confirmed.
• PDB 2981 (Real Property Tax): Approved on first reading, public hearing set for March 11, 2026, referred to Finance and Economic Development Committee.
• PDB 2984 (Shoreline Setback): Approved on first reading, public hearing set for March 11, 2026, referred to Planning Committee.
• PDB 2969 (Original Shoreline Setback): Received and will be considered alongside the amended bill.
• All consent calendar items and communications were approved or received without opposition.
• Meeting adjourned after concluding business.