Mayor Kawakami participates in Kaua‘i Chamber’s
10th Annual Mayor’s Luncheon
LĪHU‘E – The Kaua‘i Chamber of Commerce held the 10th Annual Mayor’s Luncheon at Kōloa Landing Resort on Thursday, July 18.
“First off, a huge mahalo goes out to the Kaua‘i Chamber staff, board of directors, and members for their questions and hosting this wonderful event we look forward to every year,” said Mayor Kawakami. “To the premiere sponsor, Alaska Airlines, and the many sponsors and participants here today, we are grateful for you all as this opportunity would not be possible if no one showed up and filled those seats.”
Following a lunch catered by Kōloa Landing Resort, Mayor Kawakami presented a short video which highlighted the county’s recent work and shared his vision for Kaua‘i and our people.
The formal program included Mayor Kawakami sitting on stage to talk story with Kaua‘i Chamber President and CEO Mark Perriello and Board Chair Laurie Yoshida, where they discussed various topics and current community concerns.
“Housing, economic stability, tourism management, and road infrastructure are crucial issues impacting our daily lives here on Kaua‘i,” said Perriello. “We are incredibly grateful to Mayor Kawakami for engaging in substantive dialogue with our members and sharing his inspiring vision for our island’s future. This highly anticipated event draws nearly 350 business, government, and community leaders each year, and we extend our deepest gratitude to our members and sponsors for their unwavering support and dedication to our community.”
During the talk story session, questions were also collected from the audience and addressed by the mayor, including one theme that remained consistent since the day he took office – prioritizing infrastructure.
“We prioritize infrastructure by the greatest need,” he said. “We went out to our baseyards and talked to our hardworking men and women because they are the boots on the ground who know the conditions of our roads better than any of us. And they let us know exactly what equipment they need to do the job while having direct input on priority projects.”
Mayor Kawakami closed the event reflecting on his love for Kaua‘i and the responsibility he’s been given as Mayor.
“I love this job and my time in public service,” he said. “Every step of the way has been a blessing. Having this opportunity to serve as Mayor, being able to make a direct impact on people’s day-to-day lives, and being able to see that change is truly where my heart is. This is home. And I’m blessed to have a team that loves what they do, and all I have to do is show up to work and be myself.”
 From Left to Right: Kaua‘i Chamber President and CEO Mark Perriello, Board Chair Laurie Yoshida, and Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami.
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