The Kaua‘i County Council Chair, Mel Rapozo, expressed frustration over the recent announcement that the county has suspended its derelict vehicle disposal services.
“Like many in our community, I first learned of this decision at the same time the press release was issued to the public,” Rapozo said Monday in an emailed statement. “There was no prior notice or briefing provided to the Council, and that lack of communication is both disappointing and unacceptable – especially given the direct impact this service has on our residents and neighborhoods.”
Resource Recovery Solutions, operator of Puhi Metals Recycling Facility, confirmed that as of Friday, May 1, it would be unable to accept vehicles for disposal because of capacity issues.
Kaua‘i Police Department will also not process abandoned and derelict vehicles for disposal during the temporary suspension. Members of the public are advised not to call police dispatch regarding abandoned vehicle pickups during this time.
The county is actively reviewing options to restore the service and anticipates these changes will be temporary.
Kaua‘i County Public Information Officer Meghan Wright responded to Kaua‘i Now in an email on Monday, stating the administration was aware of Rapozo’s recent statement and has been in communication with his office, adding, “we appreciate the shared interest in ensuring this service is restored as quickly and effectively as possible for our community.”
Wright said the current capacity challenge is related to the high volume of vehicles being processed.
“The county’s contractor manages several hundred vehicles each month, including a significant number classified as abandoned, which require a holding period in accordance with applicable regulations before final disposal,” Wright stated. “This has contributed to temporary limitations in intake capacity.”
Wright said the administration is actively working with the contractor to address these operational constraints and identify solutions that will allow for the safe and efficient resumption of services.
“While we do not have a firm timeline to announce at this time, discussions are ongoing and progress is being made,” Wright added. “We are hopeful that services will be reinstated in the near future and will provide updates as more information becomes available.”
Rapozo said the derelict vehicle disposal services program has long played an important role in keeping the island clean, safe, and free of abandoned vehicles. He added that its sudden suspension creates real concerns for communities, from public safety to environmental impacts.
“As Council Chair, I want to be clear: I am fully committed to getting answers and working collaboratively with the Administration and all relevant partners to identify immediate solutions,” Rapozo stated. “We must restore this service as quickly as possible or provide a reliable alternative that meets the needs of our residents.”
Rapozo said he will be engaging with the appropriate departments and stakeholders right away to better understand the situation, the timeline for resolution, and what steps can be taken to minimize disruption.
“Our community deserves transparency, accountability, and timely action. I will continue to advocate for all three as we work toward a resolution,” he added.
For additional information, Rapozo encouraged residents to contact the Office of the County Clerk, Council Services Division at 808-241-4188.
