Broken Water Line Leaves Kekaha St. Theresa Cemetery Without Water

The Kauai County Department of Parks and Recreation notified the public on November 14, 2025 that St. Theresa Cemetery in Kekaha is currently without water due to a broken water line. County maintenance crews have been dispatched and officials said they anticipate water service will be restored by Monday afternoon, contingent on the progress of repairs.

The outage has direct operational implications for cemetery upkeep. Water is essential for irrigation of lawns and landscaping, for filling water containers used by families during visits, and for basic sanitation needs at public sites. While the county release did not report any cancellations of services or events, the absence of water can complicate regular groundskeeping and visiting practices, particularly for residents who travel to tend graves or perform cultural observances.

Responsibility for addressing the problem rests with the Department of Parks and Recreation and county maintenance crews. The department provided a point of contact for questions and updates, reachable at 808 241 4460 or by email at parks@kauai.gov. The rapid public notice and an explicit repair timeline indicate an operational response, but the incident highlights broader questions about infrastructure resilience in public cemeteries and other county owned properties.

For local residents the practical impact will vary. Caretakers and families who rely on on site water may need to bring their own supplies for the weekend. Grounds crews may prioritize emergency repairs and temporary measures to protect vegetation and maintain access. Visitors with mobility needs who rely on restroom or wash facilities at the cemetery could experience inconvenience until service is restored.

At an institutional level, the outage draws attention to preventive maintenance and capital planning. County budgets and maintenance schedules determine how quickly crews can respond to broken lines and other infrastructure failures. Voters and community members who have concerns about the condition of public cemeteries have a clear avenue for inquiry through the Department of Parks and Recreation and through County Council oversight. Public meetings and budget hearings are typical venues for raising questions about long term maintenance funding and infrastructure upgrades.

The county release asked for patience and provided the department contact information for those seeking further details. Residents who need immediate assistance or additional information about the restoration timeline are advised to call 808 241 4460 or email parks@kauai.gov for updates and guidance.