The Department of Community Services (DCS) in Honolulu has a new home base. The city has finalized the purchase of the former Central Pacific Bank (CPB) Operations Center for $12 million, a move that sets the stage for enhanced community assistance. The address of the new hub is 222 North School Street, a site that will house the majority of DCS divisions together under one roof for the first time.
Honolulu's initiative consolidates four of its five divisions in a central setting, while the American Job Center and WorkHawaiʻi maintain their Dole Cannery location, and City’s Public Housing Services continue operations in Kapolei Hale. In a statement made by the City and County of Honolulu, Mayor Rick Blangiardi remarked, “Bringing DCS under one roof has been a long-standing priority because it will transform how we serve the people of Honolulu.” He also expressed gratitude towards the Atherton family and CPB for their contributions which included more than $1.63 million in building assets and equipment.
Things like the adjoining Stillman Lane parcel and eco-friendly enhancements such as a rooftop photovoltaic system were part of the additional contributions. These assets will not only curtail initial costs but also render the location move-in ready, lessening the time before services can start being offered from the new headquarters. "This facility will make it easier for our teams to collaborate and will also create space for hosting our community partners," DCS Director Anton Krucky told the city's publication.
The acquired property not only provides an economic benefit to the city but also reflects the spirit of community investment demonstrated by its previous owners. Arnold Martines, Chairman, President, and CEO of Central Pacific Bank, expressed pride in transferring the Operations Center to the City and County of Honolulu. “The City’s plan to transform the building into a center for community and kupuna services, offering support to those most in need, perfectly aligns with Central Pacific Bank’s unwavering commitment to giving back and uplifting our community,” said Martines. The Atherton Family Foundation's President, Patricia K. Richards, echoed a similar sentiment regarding their involvement in supporting such community-oriented projects.
Looking forward, renovations are on the horizon with DCS staff poised to move into the improved facility upon completion. Upgrades are scheduled to start later this year, indicating a near-future where the resident services provided by DCS are more streamlined and accessible than ever before.
