Two Hawaii County officials are among six finalists to fill a vacancy in the District Court in Hilo.

Two Hawaii County officials are among six finalists to fill a vacancy in the District Court in Hilo.

Corporation Counsel Lincoln Ashida and County Council Chairman J Yoshimoto both made the short list. Both said they were honored to be nominated, and praised the field of candidates from which Hawaii Supreme Court Justice Mark Recktenwald will ultimately select a new judge. The state Senate will then need to confirm his selection.

Joining them on the list are Paul K. Hamano, Jo Kim, Darien W.L. Ching Nagata and Henry T. Nakamoto.

“It’s a good list to choose from,” Yoshimoto said Friday.

“All five (of the other nominees) are of good character and good legal ability,” Ashida said.

Yoshimoto said he applied for the upcoming judge vacancy because he saw it as another opportunity to serve the public. He is completing his fourth term on the County Council this year.

Hamano, a Hilo attorney, said he was “privileged” to be on the short list.

Family Court Judge Anthony K. Bartholomew’s term in the position ends June 5. The state Judiciary released the list of nominees Friday. Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald is seeking community feedback on the nominees through April 4.

Attempts to reach the other three nominees were not successful Friday.

Comments about the qualifications and character of any of the nominees with regard to either calendar assignment may be sent, in writing, to Chief Justice Mark E. Recktenwald, Supreme Court of Hawaii, 417 South King Street, Honolulu, HI 96813, by fax to 808-539-4703 or by email to chiefjustice@courts.hawaii.gov.