HI HCR61

Urges Hawaii counties to engage private property owners in sharing costs of mitigating risks and hazards posed by trees on their property where the county holds an easement or right of way.

Acknowledges that older trees can create public safety hazards through falling branches, root damage to sidewalks, and resulting pedestrian injuries that expose counties to significant legal liability and costly settlements.

Requires counties to use an open, collaborative process that welcomes private property owner perspectives when determining cost-sharing arrangements for tree mitigation.

Directs counties to notify and cooperate with private property owners when unsafe tree conditions are identified on their property, with the goal of having hazards mitigated or removed.

Mandates transmission of the resolution to all four Hawaii county governments: Honolulu, Hawaii, Maui, and Kauai counties.