The members-only retailer hopes to build a 150,000-square-foot store and 16-stall gas station that could open in late 2005 or early 2006 if permitting applications and a land sale can be completed, a Costco representative said.

Costco is buying three parcels near regional mall Kukui Grove Center and Home Depot from Grove Farm Co. for an undisclosed price. A sale is expected to be finalized next month.

A public hearing on Costco's plans, which need zoning approval, is scheduled before the Kaua'i County Planning Commission on Feb. 8.

If completed, a Costco on Kaua'i would bring the Garden Isle new competition for retailers and gas stations, while offering consumers and business owners discounts on everything from food to furniture.

A Kaua'i Costco store would be the Issaquah, Wash.-based company's sixth store and fourth gas station in Hawai'i.

The company also has been exploring potential store sites in Hilo on the Big Island, and is trying to expand its Hawai'i Kai store on O'ahu with more space and gas operations. A gas station was planned for the warehouse club on Maui, but has not been built.