Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustees yesterday offered up the names of seven Native Hawaiians to be considered to fill the term of Big Island trustee Linda Dela Cruz, who died March 15.

Those being considered include former OHA trustees Louis Hao and Mililani Trask, an attorney and founder of Ka Lahui.

Also nominated are former Hawaiian Homes commissioner Ann Nathaniel, retired Judge William Chillingworth, activist Palikapu Dedman of the Pele Defense Fund, former Kamehameha executive Robert Lindsey, and retired police officer and Hawaiian Civic Clubs leader Charlie Rose.

Current trustees will meet Thursday to hold a vote. To be chosen as the replacement, a candidate must receive the support of six of the remaining eight trustees. The board has 60 days from March 15 to name a replacement. If it does not, the governor will have 30 days to name a replacement.

Each of the eight remaining trustees was allowed to submit one name on a sheet of paper to OHA administrator Clyde Namu'o. During the next week, OHA staff will verify that each of the nominees is a registered voter and resident of the Big Island. Candidates will be allowed to submit a brief written statement.