Land Board approves new judiciary complex

By Hugh Clark
Advertiser Big Island Bureau

HILO, Hawai'i — The Board of Land and Natural Resources has approved state plans to acquire Kaiko'o Mall for use as a judiciary complex.

The land board's approval last week clears the way for an independent appraisal of the eight-acre site, valued at $9.2 million based on county tax assessments.

Once a market price can be established, the state would either acquire the site from the Weinberg Foundation or file a condemnation suit.

The Kaiko'o Mall, developed in the 1960s, served as the Big Island's chief retail complex for nearly two decades but faded as major tenants left for newer locations and various government agencies began filling some of the vacancies. A handful of small stores, restaurants and bars remain.

The state Judiciary has sought to consolidate its East Hawai'i operations into a single site since 1988.

Court officials say the move would allow them to centralize services and improve security.

There are three courtrooms in the Hilo State Office building across the street from the Kaiko'o location.

The family court is almost a mile away at the Waiakea Office Center now operated by the Department of Water Supply.

Two other Judiciary offices are in leased storefronts along Kilauea Avenue and Keawe Street.