Go-carts go nowhere

LIHU‘E — A go-cart business seemed like perfect entertainment for children of all ages on Kaua‘i.

Or at least that’s what many who testified on behalf of the proposed Kapa‘a business said at a county Planning Commission hearing a couple months ago.

The go-carts, however, won’t be going anywhere anytime soon.

Entrepreneur John “Jay” Outzen also encountered strong opposition, mostly from residents who live near the proposed site, the Olde Cannery on Kawaihau Road in Kapahi.

“Jay is a very sensitive guy,” said landlord Russell Boyer, explaining that because of the amount of negative testimony, Outzen withdrew the permit request with the commission.

Before the public hearing two months ago, the commission received 138 letters in opposition to the project, plus a petition against it with 200 signatures. Jean Camp, who was at the hearing representing Outzen, said she had 250 letters in support of the project, and some of those letters came from nearby residents.

Outzen originally proposed a go-cart facility open seven days a week, from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. Outzen said at the Aug. 10 hearing that he was willing to modify hours of operation and install noise barriers to reduce noise pollution.

If even then nearby residents would not be satisfied, Outzen said he would withdraw the request for a permit to operate the business. And that is just what he did Tuesday.

In a letter addressed to commissioners, Outzen thanked commissioners, Planning Director Ian Costa and planner Ka‘aina Hull for their help with the project.

“I have come to the conclusion that, after researching and considering all the people that would be affected by the Go Karts Kaua‘i Project, the Honsador Lumber Yard on Kawaihau Road is not the right location,” Outzen said in the letter.

Boyer said Outzen spent a lot of money, including hiring a consultant, to get to the point of asking for a permit. Despite the withdrawal, Outzen might still consider the business if a suitable location is found, said Boyer.