December 11, 2025 AAC Meeting Minutes

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Arborist Advisory CommitteeMeeting Minutes December 11, 2025 ChairJill Wagnerreflectedon her past experience as anarborist committee member, and at this stage, after an application has been submitted and agendized, two committee members would normally go and conduct a site visit to do an inspection on the tree, and then report back to the committee. The Sadoulet’s touched on the complaint they received about their trees. The complaint initially concerned the height of all the trees on the property, but it was later revealed that only the Ficus and monkey pod trees were at issue, both of which are under 30 feet tall and not in violation of any rules. The Homeowners Association (HOA) confirmed there was no basis for the complaint. Despite this, the homeowners remain concerned about their tallest tree (53 feet) and want it protected from future complaints, especially if the property changes ownership. The tree has endured storms and a major fire without significant damage, and photos have been submitted to support the case for its preservation. DCC Jean Campbell advised that commissioners should conduct a site visit and carefully review the applications before making a decision at the next meeting. She emphasized that designating a tree as “exceptional” under county code does not override private pr designated exceptional, property owners could face a fine of up to $1,000 for substantial damage or removal. However, this designation does not protect owners from potential lawsuits by neighbors or homeowner associations enforcing CC&Rs, which may require altering or removing the tree. The county cannot intervene in private CC&Rs, so owners might be caught between legal obligations to their neighbors and county penalties if the tree is both protected and subject to removal requirements. Chair Jill Wagner asked DCC Jean Campbell to clarify whether the Exceptional Tree Act exceptional trees, as she wants to ensure her understanding is correct. DCC Jean Campbell couldn’t provide an answer but pledged to follow-up on that. The Sadoulet’s will send follow-up information on the CC&R to Acting Chair Micah Alameda. Action: Acting Chair Micah Alameda called for a motion. A motion was made by Member George Applegate to postpone this item to the next meeting, which was seconded by Chair Jill Wagner. The motion was carried by a vote of 5:0. b. TMK 2-4-001:167, Robert Talbert (Applicant), Tahina Spectabilis or Tahina Palm, Garden. Acting Chair Micah Alameda noted Applicant Robert Talbert was unavailable to join this meeting. Chair Jill Wagner read the application, mentioned the palm is not native, and that she wants to take more time to learn about it. At 3:54 p.m. Mayor Kimo Alameda and Managing Director William Brilhante Jr. walked into the meeting room. 3