Residents know the love of this island is firmly implanted in the heart and soul of its people, said Kaua‘i County Council candidate Ken Taylor in a statement last week. “For this reason, I wish to serve as a council
Residents know the love of this island is firmly implanted in the heart and soul of its people, said Kaua‘i County Council candidate Ken Taylor in a statement last week.
“For this reason, I wish to serve as a council member, so that I may participate in the process of government that is solidly supportive of the quality of life of the citizens of Kaua’i,” he said. “Although there are many problems that need attention, solid waste because of its health and safety issue is of prime importance.”
If elected, Taylor said he would work to establish state-of-the-art solid waste facilities in all phases of disposal.
He said he would also work to alleviate traffic, update wastewater treatment facilities and create affordable housing.
The candidate said he would foster open government in part by expanding the live TV coverage of County Council and Planning Commission hearings.
Another issue Taylor said he would work to resolve is creating innovative energy solutions for homes, businesses and transportation that can sustain Kaua‘i and its people through changes.
“I dedicate my election to the County Council of Kaua‘i, to the children and young adults of Kaua‘i, that they may face the future with confidence in the knowledge that they can, if they wish, stay on Kaua‘i, be productive, have a career and raise a family with the encouragement of local government and its citizens,” he said. “The solution to all of our challenges will take our community of people working together — neighborhood associations, the County Council and the Mayor’s Office.”
Taylor said it is time for change.
“You can feel it,” he said. “It’s in the air, it’s all around us.”
Four current County Council members are seeking reelection.
“They have been on council from six to 20 years,” Taylor added.
The candidate said government should be open and transparent and that in a democracy, the people are vested with the ultimate decision-making power.
“Government agencies exist to aid the people in the formation and conduct of public policy,” Taylor said, noting the state Bill of Rights.
“It is my belief that the current County Council, by not honoring openness and transparency in their conduct of closed session meetings, have not upheld their oath of office to uphold the constitution of the state and the Kaua‘i County Charter,” he said.
For more information, e-mail Taylor at taylork021@hawaii.rr.com
