Ann Arbor Environmental Commission urges natural features protections in comprehensive plan

A strong push for enhanced natural features protection in Ann Arbor's upcoming comprehensive plan dominated discussions at the Environmental Commission meeting on March 20, 2025. Community members and commissioners alike emphasized the critical need to integrate robust environmental safeguards into the city's planning framework, which is set to be finalized later this year.

Linda Barrar, a long-time resident, urged the commission to advocate for the inclusion of floodplain protections, highlighting the importance of maintaining open green spaces in light of increased urban development. "Protecting the open floodplains that remain under city ownership should be of the highest priority," she stated, referencing the city's ongoing efforts to purchase and preserve floodplain areas. Barrar's call to action underscored the dual benefits of such measures for public health and environmental sustainability, particularly as climate change intensifies.

James Damore, a former city planning commissioner, echoed Barrar's sentiments, stressing the urgency of incorporating natural features into the comprehensive plan. He criticized past planning processes for neglecting the interconnectedness of natural systems and urban development, stating, "We cannot solve the climate crisis without protecting natural systems."

The commission also discussed a draft resolution from the biodiversity workgroup, which aims to recognize biodiversity as essential for the community's future health. The resolution seeks to integrate natural systems into urban planning, promoting a balance between development and ecological preservation. "As Ann Arbor changes, we must implement actions that integrate natural systems," a commission member noted, emphasizing the need for measurable gains in biodiversity.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further refine the resolution and ensure that natural features, including wetlands and floodplains, are prioritized in the comprehensive plan. The discussions reflect a growing recognition of the vital role that environmental protections play in shaping a sustainable future for Ann Arbor. As the city moves forward, the Environmental Commission's advocacy could significantly influence land use decisions for years to come.