A plan to cut down four monkeypod trees along South Kihei Road has some residents up in arms, though County officials say it may be necessary to avoid further damage to the sidewalk, street and a nearby parking lot.
The flap began after Parks Department arborist David Sakoda determined the trees — located in the County right-of-way by the Maui Schooner Resort — were planted in too small an area and have created a “hazardous” situation. Sakoda said removing only the roots isn’t an option, since that could destabilize the trees.
Not everyone agrees. Various groups, including the Kihei Community Association and the County’s Arborist Advisory Committee, have called for more discussion before any action is taken. They’ll get a chance on Monday, during a meeting called by South Maui Councilmember Don Couch. Couch says the meeting — set for 6pm at the Kihei Charter School’s 6th Grade building, Lipoa Center at 41 E. Lipoa Street — will solicit “comments and concerns from the community and [seek] alternatives.” Representatives from the Mayor’s office and the Parks Department have been asked to attend.
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