5 proposed Kaua‘i County charter amendments on ballots this Election Day

Kaua‘i voters will have the opportunity to decide on five proposed charter amendments on the 2024 general election ballot.

The county of Kaua‘i Charter Review Commission has provided background information and the purpose of each proposal at kauaiballotinfo.com.

The first proposed charter amendment increases the length of time in which the police commission may investigate police conduct cases. Other charter amendments affect the cost control commission, the county’s open space fund and surety bonds.

The fifth charter amendment, if passed, would create ex-officio positions on county boards and commissions to be filled by high school juniors and seniors.

The charter of the county of Kaua‘i is the fundamental organizational document for how the county government works. It was adopted in the 1968 election, and the mayor-county council form of government was launched in 1969.

The Kaua‘i County Charter Review Commission reviews proposals for changes to the charter and in each general election it recommends those amendments its members feel will improve county government.

Charter amendments can also be proposed by the county council or by citizen petition, but neither of those processes was used this year.

Proposed amendments are adopted if a majority of those voting on an item approves it in the general election.

For more information, visit kauaiballotinfo.com. Voters may also contact the Office of Boards and Commissions at 808-241-4917 or the Elections Division at 808-241-4800, Monday to Friday, between 7:45 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.