Dearborn Heights council debates tree replacement funding and ordinance reforms

In a recent special city council meeting held on April 29, 2025, in Dearborn Heights, Michigan, residents voiced significant concerns regarding the management and replacement of city trees, particularly sycamores, which have been a source of contention following severe storms that damaged many trees in the area.

Lori Moline, a resident of Berwyn Street, highlighted the aftermath of a recent storm that left many trees down and power outages in the North End. She expressed frustration over the city’s failure to replace trees that were lost, particularly at the Berwyn Center, where two trees were removed but not replaced. Moline argued that residents should not bear the financial burden of tree removal and replacement, especially when the city has a tree fund intended for such purposes.

The discussion revealed a broader issue regarding the city’s tree ordinance, which some council members believe needs reevaluation. Concerns were raised about the health and lifespan of the sycamore trees, with one council member noting that many have exceeded their natural lifespan and are now causing problems, such as falling branches. The estimated cost to remove all sycamore trees in the city was cited as being around $5 to $6 million, a figure that raises questions about the feasibility of such an undertaking without external funding or grants.

Council members acknowledged the importance of trees for environmental benefits, such as providing oxygen and shade, and expressed a desire to restore the city’s reputation as a "Tree City USA." However, they also recognized the need for a balanced approach that considers residents' rights to manage trees on city property adjacent to their homes.

The meeting underscored the community's desire for a more equitable and effective tree management policy, one that aligns with the city’s environmental goals while addressing the concerns of residents. As discussions continue, the council faces the challenge of finding solutions that satisfy both the need for urban greenery and the practical realities of tree maintenance and replacement.