The County of Kaua‘i recently announced a significant transition within its leadership, as Chief of Staff Sarah K. Blane is set to depart this July. After a tenure marked by crises such as severe floods and a pandemic, Blane's upcoming exit draws attention to her more than 17 years of commitment to public service. "Sarah has been a steady hand through some of the most challenging times in our island’s history—from record-breaking floods to a global pandemic," Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami praised in a statement, according to Kauai County.
Blane, who has been with the Office of the Mayor for nearly 15 years, is commended for her leadership, particularly during critical moments like the historic floods in April 2018, the COVID-19 pandemic, and notably, the Kaumakani wildfire in 2024. Her career began before Kaua‘i, when she served with the City and County of Honolulu’s Rapid Transit Division, joining Kaua‘i’s team in 2010 as a Public Information Officer. Blane’s ability to communicate effectively and connect with community members has been highlighted throughout her career, echoing the island's spirit of generosity and care.
In an official release, Mayor Kawakami said, “Sarah leads with humility and aloha, and she cares deeply for island residents and visitors.” Blane has taken on roles ranging from political advising to crisis response coordination, managing emergency public messaging, and serving as a vital liaison between the county and the community. Her educational background includes a BBA and an MBA from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa Shidler College of Business, grounding her leadership in both academic preparation and practical experience, according to Kauai County.
"It’s been an extraordinary honor to serve the Office of the Mayor and the people of Kaua‘i," Blane remarked, acknowledging the impact of the Kaua‘i community on her approach to governance. As per Kauai County, the affection she holds for Kaua‘i is palpable in her parting words, "While my family and I are excited about our next adventure in Waimea on Hawai‘i Island, I will certainly be leaving a piece of my heart here at the County of Kaua‘i." As her departure from the office approaches, the search for a new Chief of Staff continues, with no immediate successor yet named.
