LIHU'E – Kaua'i County officials announced today that Bernard Carvalho, director of Parks and Recreation, has requested a leave of absence from his position pending the outcome of the upcoming elections.

Carvalho will step aside effective Monday, Aug. 25, to focus on his mayoral campaign.

Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation Kylan Dela Cruz will assume his responsibilities while Carvalho is on leave.

"I take this leave with mixed feelings because I am fully committed to the mission of the Parks and Recreation Department, our employees and ongoing projects," said Carvalho. "I am stepping aside because I believe that the department deserves a director's full attention. Running a vigorous campaign in a compressed time frame does not allow me to do so."

Administrative Assistant Gary Heu said, "We will ensure that the operations of the Department continue without disruption."