Senate panel OKs funding
for Kapolei court complex

The $95 million request is
considered a top judicial priority

A Senate panel has restored a $95 million request by the state Judiciary for the design and construction of a Family Court complex and juvenile detention center in Kapolei.

Star-Bulletin Legislature Database Star-Bulletin Legislature Guide (PDF, 1.9 MB) State Legislature: Bills & Hawaii Revised Statutes

The funding request -- part of the Judiciary's proposed two-year budget -- was restored yesterday by the Senate Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs Committee.

It had been deleted by the House after some members of the Finance Committee wanted to study whether the funds could be spread out over a longer period of time.

Both chambers would have to agree on the funding for the request to be sent to Gov. Linda Lingle for consideration.

Chief Justice Ronald Moon has identified the complex as a top priority.

Judiciary officials say funding is critical this session because an agreement with Campbell Estate calls for a signed construction contract be in hand by Dec. 31, 2006, or the land will be forfeited.

Campbell Estate is providing 13.6 acres within the Kapolei civic center area at no cost to taxpayers for the complex.

Sen. Clayton Hee (D, Kahuku-Kaneohe) said putting the court and detention center in West Oahu has the potential to ease traffic in the core of the city, spark new commerce around the new court and bring court services closer to more rural residents.

"It will change the culture of how we conduct our lives," Hee said.

The budget will head next to the Senate Ways and Means Committee.