Dearborn Heights City Council reverts summer festival name to Spirit Festival

The Dearborn Heights City Council held a special meeting on May 8, 2025, focusing on budget discussions and community concerns. A significant topic was the budget allocation for uniforms and boots for the Department of Public Works (DPW), which raised questions among council members regarding its adequacy. Councilman Ahmad highlighted that the budget of $15,000 per department seemed insufficient compared to the estimated $1.3 million needed for boots alone, prompting concerns about financial planning.

During the meeting, council members expressed the need for more time for residents to review the budget before any final decisions are made. This sentiment was echoed by several members who felt that the public had not been given adequate opportunity to voice their opinions.

Another key discussion point was the renaming of the city's summer festival back to its original title, the Spirit Festival. Councilman Ahmad introduced a resolution to revert the name, citing community feedback that favored the traditional name. The council unanimously supported the resolution, emphasizing the importance of community values in the festival's identity.

The meeting also included announcements about upcoming civic events, including a meeting with local representatives and a brunch honoring families affected by child loss, which aims to celebrate their legacies.

In closing, council members acknowledged the hard work of city officials and expressed gratitude for community engagement, reinforcing the council's commitment to addressing residents' concerns and fostering a collaborative environment.