LIHUE — Preston Chong has officially been appointed as the new Deputy Parks Director for the County of Kauai. His swearing-in ceremony took place on Monday, where he was joined by family and colleagues, including Parks Director Patrick Porter and Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami, who expressed confidence in Chong’s capabilities.
During the meeting, one of Chong’s first tasks was to assess the soon-to-be-completed running track at Vidinha Stadium alongside Mayor Kawakami. The Mayor praised Chong’s strong financial background and deep understanding of the department’s operational needs. “Preston brings strong financial expertise, institutional knowledge and steady leadership to this role,” Kawakami remarked.
Chong has been part of the Kauai Department of Parks and Recreation since January 2020, initially serving as the parks fiscal officer. His responsibilities included managing personnel, budgeting, contracts, and accounts payable, in addition to overseeing the department’s park security officer program. Since January 2025, he has been fulfilling the role of acting deputy director, ensuring continuity in leadership during a pivotal time for the department.
Commitment to Community and Leadership
In his new role, Chong is set to maintain oversight of the department’s operations, which encompass fiscal management, administrative coordination, park maintenance support, recreational programming, and long-term planning. His focus will be on ensuring that Kauai’s parks and facilities remain safe, accessible, and well-maintained for residents and visitors alike.
“I am honored to continue serving the people of Kauai in this new capacity,” Chong stated. He emphasized the importance of parks and recreation programs as vital resources for the community. “I look forward to working alongside our dedicated staff to strengthen these services.”
Mayor Kawakami and Managing Director Reiko Matsuyama also acknowledged the significance of Chong’s appointment, expressing their regrets about the limited time left in Kawakami’s administration. Matsuyama stated, “We’re going to finish strong,” highlighting the team’s commitment to enhancing Kauai’s parks and recreation services.
Chong is a graduate of Waimea High School and holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accounting from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. His academic background, combined with his extensive experience in the department, positions him well to take on this essential leadership role.
For further details about the Kauai Department of Parks and Recreation, visit the county’s official website at www.kauai.gov/parks.
