Opponents seek to end a bungee-jumping venue, citing environmental and safety concerns.
Kauai residents are set to vote on whether to allow a bungee-jumping venue to operate on the island. But opponents of the ride say it will bring tourists and money to the state, and they say the bungee jump will damage the island’s environment and land resources.
Supporters and others say the bungee-jumping location on Oahu’s windy, windward side has a lower risk of damage.
“This is a very complicated issue,” Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho said at a meeting Tuesday. “There are many points of view.”
Carvalho has asked that the vote be postponed until a public hearing can take place on Thursday at the Kauai Community College District auditorium.
“It’s an open and shut case,” he said.
Carvalho said he supports the motion based on the Kauai Bungee Tour’s website, which states that the ride provides entertainment “for visitors and residents, as well as local residents who may be interested in attending the event.”
The group’s website also states that the event is “designed to promote the culture, history and spirit of Kauai and the Hawaiian people and is a cultural and historical event.”
During the hearing on Tuesday, Carvalho said he believed the ride should be able to operate as a tourist attraction.
“That is the idea I have,” he said.
“I have the same position,” said Steve Gertler, attorney for the Association of Kauai Community College Teachers. “I think it will be good for the island if it can be used as an event or entertainment venue. Not to promote, but to have an event.”
Gertler said