Matt Kaneali’i-Kleinfelder and Jeanné Kapela talk housing access, water utilities evacuation plans and more.

Kauaʻi’s council members face daunting infrastructure needs, a shortage of workforce housing and declining visitor numbers on the island.

Council member Val Okimoto has charged into public disputes against powerful members of the city administration.

“We should prioritize the highest-risk cesspools using factors such as proximity to waterways, directing larger incentives toward those properties.”

“We need to invest in curbside pickup to improve the separation of garbage before it hits the landfills.”

“We will be unable to tackle other key issues like housing without infrastructure.”

“Waste-to-energy and a materials recovery facility may be part of the future, but they will not replace the current capacity threat.”

“Carve out 10-acre orchard plots to support all sorts of fruits that can thrive in the tropics.”

“All communities should be involved in ideas to help the county acquire revenue- generating assets.”

“Increased access to land and water for crop production should receive priority as well as reduced regulations for workforce housing.”