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Derek S. K. Kawakami was re-elected on November 8, 2022, and was inagurated to serve his second 4-year term as Mayor of Kauaʻi on December 1, 2022. As he expressed on election eve: “On behalf of my wife Monica, and our children Christopher and Hailee, I am so humbled and grateful to have the privilege to serve another four years as our islands’ mayor. Our administration represents change and growth, and we are going to continue to push past our comfort zones and get creative to address our island’s complex issues. We look forward to working with our incoming County Council to build affordable housing for our local residents, improve aging infrastructure, build and maintain our parks, and prioritize public safety.

The Kauaʻi Grown 8U Baseball Team won undefeated after playing five games at the Mililani High School 8U Pinto Baseball Tournament on Oʻahu in September. Mayor Derek Kawakami met with the team, coaches, parents, family and volunteers, and declared October 11, 2022 as Kauaʻi Grown 8U Baseball Team Day.

Kauaʻi Mayor Derek Kawakami discusses efforts to repair and protect the island’s infrastructure from rising tides and natural disasters.

This week is National Assisted Living Week and the theme this year is “Joyful Moments.” Mayor Kawakami visited the residents and staff at the Regency at Puakea in Lihue Monday, to share their joyful moments this past year. Mahalo to those who work in assisted living care, providing care for our kupuna and individuals with special needs.

“I wake up each day and say that I have the best job in the world. I have been honored and humbled to serve Kauaʻi County these past few years. I want to thank and congratulate all the candidates for putting yourself out there and being part of the democratic process. Weʻre also very grateful to everyone who took the time to vote. We know we’re not done yet, and we’ll head into the General Election in November continuing to work hard for the people of Kauaʻi and Ni‘ihau.”

Mayor Derek Kawakami

Mayor Derek Kawakami crowned the new Miss Kaua‘i Filipina 2022 Kiele Casillas this afternoon.

Mayor Derek Kawakami came out to support the youth basketball clinic hosted by Coach Eran Ganot and the UH men’s basketball team Saturday.

The Kawakami Campaign Team spent the weekend assembling yard signs.

Mayor Kawakami and The Kauai County Council proclaimed July 30 as Keith Smith Day for his contributions to the parade, Koloa Community, and agriculture on the island.

8th Annual Kauaʻi Chamber Mayoral Luncheon held on Wednesday, July 27, 2022