County Charter Review Commission invites public comment for Nov. 24 meeting
The County Charter Review Commission is considering several changes to the County Charter for the 2026 General Election ballot and invites public comment at its next meeting on Monday, Nov. 24, 2025, at 3 p.m., at the Pi‘ikoi Building, Boards and Commissions Conference Room, 4444 Rice Street, Suite 300, Līhu‘e, HI, 96766.
The Charter is the fundamental document outlining how the county government works, as the U.S. Constitution is to the national government. The Charter Review Commission, whose members are nominated by the mayor and approved by the Council, considers amendments to the charter and makes recommendations that are voted on by the electorate.
Among proposals currently under consideration:
• Adding to qualifications for the Director of Finance, allowing a CPA certificate to replace some training, and including experience in preparing or auditing financial statements.
• Requiring the County Cost Control Commission to review the proposed budget of the Office of County Clerk and make recommendations to the mayor.
• Allowing the County Attorney to set policy on which contracts must be or not be approved as to form and legality.
• Removing references to a Zoning Board of Appeals, which has never been seated and whose functions are being performed by the Planning Commission.
• Allowing publication of charter amendments in online formats if local newspaper publication is not feasible.
• Prohibiting or limiting gated communities within the county.
Each of these proposals was brought to the Charter Review Commission, which continues to consider all of them and has made no final recommendations. The commission is authorized to place on the election ballot those proposed changes that it considers necessary or desirable.
Oral testimony will be taken in person at the Nov. 24 meeting. Written testimony, preferably 24 hours before the meeting, may be submitted to adavis@kauai.gov; or mailed to the Charter Review Commission, c/o Office of Boards and Commission, 4444 Rice Street, Suite 300, Lihue, Hawaii 96766.
If you require an auxiliary aid or service, an interpreter for non-English speakers, or another accommodation due to a disability, please contact Anelani Davis at 808-241-4917 or email adavis@kauai.gov as soon as possible. Early requests are encouraged to ensure adequate time to meet your needs. Upon request, this notice is available in alternate formats, including large print, Braille, or electronic copy.
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