Landfill & Solid Waste
We face a major problem as we approach the end of the Kekaha Landfill and we need to act urgently to address our long term solid waste needs. My experience as an environmental scientist included the sampling of water surrounding and leachate in a large landfill in South East Queensland. I understand what goes into a landfill, where it is appropriate and how to push for the highest and best quality.
To address the landfill crisis, we must work urgently to drive forward the development of a new landfill, while doing everything we can to focus on waste reduction and diversion tactics.
The development of a landfill will take longer to address than we currently have. Reducing the waste we generate and diverting what we can from the current landfill will be critical in establishing responsible waste management for our small island. This issue is extremely urgent and will require significant funding that we must work hard to obtain ASAP, as we have run out of time. I am realistic about the time it will take to finalize a location and build a new landfill and understand that it is likely we do not have many options once we reach capacity, again.
I will push to move forward on landfill development outside of Kekaha, while we also move on curbside recycling and robust waste diversion tactics. I have and will continue to support a materials recovery facility for Kauaʻi in conjunction with curbside recycling. Over the last few years, on the state level, I have worked to support composting and organic waste diversion measures and will continue to do so.
I will push for strict requirements for construction around demolition and waste management to address the huge load of construction waste that the Kekaha Landfill receives.
Infrastructure & Waste Water
I will support infrastructure including waste water treatment facilities and sewer needs while supporting local families in efforts to transition from cesspools to septic systems. I will support investments in drainage, roads and bridges to improve our roadways.
I understand that infrastructure limitations are the reason many families have not taken up the opportunity to build additional units for family or rent. I want to help address these barriers and ensure the county is doing everything it can to work for the people of Kauaʻi.