Case warns businesses: ‘Run lean’

Even though all factors seem to indicate the Kaua’i economy is in very good shape, U.S. Rep. Ed Case, D-rural O’ahu, Neighbor Islands, is wary.

The sluggish Mainland economy might still impact the local one, he said.

“The national economy still could catch up with us here. You still have to run lean,” said Case.

While in the islands, and on Kaua’i last week, during the spring congressional recess, he learned that statistics and the mood of people in and out of business he talked to on this island all indicate that the Kaua’i economy is “stable,” and doing better than other counties in the state.

But, he still cautioned local businesses that the delayed wave that is the stagnant overall U.S. economy might still hit Kaua’i shores at a later date.