• What are the real reasons? • Enhance ocean safety efforts What are the real reasons? I join Glenn Mickens in his encouragement of Rolf Beiber to “stay involved with our government.” Some day he will no longer be a
• What are the real reasons?
• Enhance ocean safety efforts
What are the real reasons?
I join Glenn Mickens in his encouragement of Rolf Beiber to “stay involved with our government.” Some day he will no longer be a “newcomer, without a huge war chest and local backing.”
In his letter of Dec. 27 (Forum, “Bravo, Rolf”), Mr. Mickens questions the mayor’s failure to reappoint Rolf to the Board of Ethics after his term had expired and questions, especially, the reason given by the mayor that he “wanted more balance on the BOE.”
Assuming, for the sake of argument, that “balance” is a criteria for the makeup of any board or commission, Mr. Mickens insists that the reasons supporting his opinion is a better opinion even though the two new appointees to the board haven’t yet said “boo” and we have no idea what their education and experience will reveal in the exercise of their duties on the board.
I agree 100 percent with Mr. Mickens’ recitation that “In any government system whether it be in government, board or commission, differing points of view are welcome and decisions are made by a majority vote.” Who is to say now that the appointment of two new members will not fulfill this democratic principle … that it is not possible without a reappointment of Rolf?
There are certain facts of political life which Mr. Mickens ignores or refuses to accept in this case:
1. Mr. Bieber’s term expired. There is no ordinance, law or custom that mandates his reappointment.
2. The mayor has the duty of his office to appoint qualified persons to boards and commissions. The selections are not made blind-folded.
3. The council confirms or denies confirmation of the mayor’s appointees
4. The mayor, council members, commissioners and board members swear or affirm under oath that they will perform the duties of their office to the best of their ability.
If the mayor is remiss in not following Mr. Mickens’ opinion, the council which confirms the appointments is equally tainted with the mayor’s sin.
The main thrust of Mr. Mickens’ letter, however, lies in the blunt “look me in the eye” question directed to the mayor: “What were your real reasons?” and this question provides me the excuse, without hesitation, to ask this very same question of the proponents for a county-manager system of government: What are your real reasons?
Will it better enable you to elect council members and a mayor (if he exists in your system) who agree with your thoughts and opinions in the re-making of Kaua‘i and avoid having to argue and disagree on whom to appoint? So far, my “persistent” inquiry has not received any response.
Alfred Laureta, Lihu‘e
Enhance ocean safety efforts
I write today with a heavy heart over the recent tragedies in our ocean waters and the lives that will be forever changed by the devastation of an unexpected death.
This is an issue that we will always face, as do all “sand and surf” destinations, however, I know it is particularly difficult to the hundreds of residents who have worked countless hours over the years — many as volunteers — to make the ocean experience as safe as it can possibly be for all who live and visit here.
There is not enough space to individually thank all who have dedicated their time and energy to our ocean safety effort, but I hope that you will see this letter and know that you are appreciated. Even though we can’t prevent all tragedies — your efforts DO matter and all of these efforts have undoubtedly saved hundreds of lives.
One thing is clear: we must always strive to do more. It’s incumbent on each and every one of us to spread the message of ocean safety to those who are unaware of the dangers of our waters. We can all spread the word because we interact every day with visitors in our businesses, grocery stores, beaches, restaurants, places of worship and even in our neighborhoods. The message is simple: swim only at beaches with lifeguards, and avoid known dangers such as Kipu Falls and Queen’s Bath.
There are many tools available to help spread this simple message of safety. The Office of Economic Development can provide you with ocean safety brochures — complete with a map of all beaches with lifeguards. Simply call them at 241-4946 to request a supply, and then display them prominently.
Another tool is Kaua‘i’s incredible ocean safety Web site: www.kauaiexplorer.com. This site has valuable information on how to stay safe in our oceans, on our trails, how to interact with wildlife, and so much more. You can even sign up to receive a daily “ocean report” via e-mail — which is especially helpful for hotels, condos and timeshares for providing up-to-date ocean conditions to their guests.
We at the county will continue to work with partners in the public and private sector to enhance our ocean safety efforts. But perhaps the biggest impact will come from that chance interaction you have with a visitor who will welcome your advice as to how to safely enjoy our beaches. You could help avert a tragedy and safe a life. And isn’t that the most important gift of all?
Bernard Carvalho Jr., Kaua‘i mayor
