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DISCUSSION OF EXCEPTIONAL TREE CRITERIA AND FAMILIARIZATION OF <br />EXCEPTIONAL TREE APPLICATION <br />a. Chair Wagner led a review of the Exceptional Tree nomination application and criteria. <br />She explained the process, including the need for detailed species information, tree <br />measurements (height, trunk diameter, canopy size), and consideration of whether the <br />tree is native, non-native, or invasive. The committee discussed the importance of <br />including the landowner’s signature on the application and clarified that the nominator <br />does not need to be the landowner, but landowner consent is required. Legal and <br />practical implications of exceptional tree designation were discussed, including potential <br />conflicts with homeowners’ associations’ covenants, conditions, and restrictions, and <br />ongoing maintenance responsibilities. <br /> <br />BUSINESS <br />a. Review exceptional tree applications <br />1) TMK 5-9-11:34 - A Kiawe tree in Kohala with concerns about its invasive status <br />and conflict with neighborhood CC&Rs. Committee members will defer action to <br />the next meeting. <br /> <br />2) TMK 2-4-001:167 - <br />the Botanical Garden, notable for its rarity and non-invasive status. Additional <br />information is requested <br /> <br />3) TMK 5-2-009:053 - A large mango tree in Kapaau, with discussion about historic, <br />aesthetic, and cultural value. <br /> <br />4) TMK 3-7-4-008-057-0000 - Chair Wagner’s nomination of four endemic wili wili <br />(willy- <br />grove rather than as individuals and discussed the importance of seed collection <br />for restoration efforts. <br /> <br />b. The Commission agreed to update and review the current list of exceptional trees and to <br />establish a cadence for checking the health and status of listed trees. The possibility of <br />site visits by two members at a time was discussed, with a reminder from counsel to <br />avoid any decision-making outside of public meetings in accordance with the Sunshine <br />Law. <br /> <br />ANNOUNCEMENTS <br />Next two meetings will take place on: <br /> <br />February 12, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. <br />Pueo Conference Room <br />25 Aupuni Street, #2601 <br />Hilo, HI 96720 <br /> <br />March 25, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. <br />Pueo Conference Room <br />25 Aupuni Street, #2601 <br />Hilo, HI 96720 <br /> <br /> <br />6 <br /> <br />