Committee backs study of carrying capacity at Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor after operators and residents testify

The Senate Committee on Water and Land voted Feb. 10 to advance a bill directing the Department of Land and Natural Resources to study the carrying capacity of Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor on Kauai (SB 4-65).

Proponents said the harbor now holds about 60% of the island’s commercial boat permits and that a gap in permitting rules lets operators expand vessel capacity without additional state review. Taryn Dizon, testifying by Zoom for local interests, said permit-holders have been “frequently changing their vessels to increase their carrying” and that the concentration of commercial activity has created “constant safety concerns, limited recreational access and strained resources.”

Dawn Sheng, speaking for DLNR, said the department supports the bill’s intent and noted that DLNR is completing a capital improvement project at the harbor; the department suggested the capacity study could align with that work. Clayton Kubo, an adjacent landowner, opposed the bill as unnecessary and said improvements and a parking lot by a nearby landowner make a harbor study “5 to 7 years too late.”

Senators heard written communications of support from the Kauai County Council and multiple community groups. After testimony the committee chair recommended passage; the committee voted to advance the bill without amendment.

The bill requires DLNR to prepare a harbor carrying‑capacity report to the Legislature; committee discussion emphasized concerns about restroom capacity, parking and effects on coastal resources if passenger loads increase without additional permitting. The committee also noted the measure is a study, not an immediate restriction on operations.

Ending: With committee approval the study requirement moves to the next legislative step; DLNR and county officials indicated the department will coordinate timing with its planned capital improvements.