The Farmington Hills City Council meeting on March 24, 2025, highlighted growing concerns over the local deer population and its implications for public health and safety. Residents voiced their frustrations regarding the increasing deer numbers, which have been linked to the spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD) and episodic hemorrhagic disease (EHD). These diseases pose significant risks not only to deer populations but also to the broader ecosystem and human health.

One resident, Michael Clarelorn, emphasized the direct correlation between the overpopulation of deer and the rise of these contagious diseases. He noted that CWD, first reported in Michigan in 2015, is fatal to deer and spreads rapidly in areas with high deer concentrations, such as Farmington Hills. Clarelorn urged the council to consider culling as a viable solution, citing successful efforts in other municipalities that have employed trained sharpshooters to manage deer populations effectively.

Another resident, Clara Hahn, expressed her long-standing frustration with the deer issue, stating that it has persisted for nearly two decades. She criticized the lack of proactive solutions from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and called for expedited action to address the problem, highlighting the impact on her family's ability to enjoy their yard and garden.

Caitlin McHenry, a biosystems engineer and farmer, provided a different perspective, suggesting that while deer management is essential, alternative methods should be explored. She pointed out that deer are not the primary carriers of Lyme disease, as ticks are the actual hosts. McHenry advocated for strategies to outsmart deer rather than solely relying on culling, emphasizing the importance of understanding deer behavior and using repellents.

The meeting also saw concerns about the ethical implications of culling deer. Kelly Goldberg raised questions about the community's willingness to accept lethal measures, citing the potential risks to public safety and the perception of such actions as barbaric. She urged the council to consider non-lethal alternatives and to conduct studies on their effectiveness.

As the council deliberates on this pressing issue, the discussions reflect a community grappling with the balance between public health, safety, and ethical considerations regarding wildlife management. The council's next steps will be crucial in determining how Farmington Hills addresses the challenges posed by its growing deer population and the associated health risks.