Kauai Councilman Derek S.K. Kawakami is being appointed to the Hawaii House of Representatives.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie today named Kawakami to the Democrat-held seat left vacant by Hermina Morita, who was appointed as chairwoman for the Public Utilities Commission.

Kawakami will represent a Kauai district that includes the areas of Hanalei, Anahola, Kealia, Kapaa and Waipouli. 

Abercrombie said he chose Kawakami because he’s committed to public service and will represent his constituents.

Kawakami has served on the Kauai County Council since 2008, where he’s the chairman for the Intergovernmental Relations Committee.

He is a nephew of the late House Speaker Richard Kawakami and former Rep. Bertha Kawakami.

He’s also the owner and operator of Derek’s Cool Runnings Shave Ice and Vending.