A Michigan City resident asked the Tree Board on Oct. 1 to confirm whether the city forester may require pruning or removal of privately owned trees that obstruct alleys, signage or lighting.

The request followed a site visit by the city forester to alleys near the resident's home. The resident, Dakoda Euler of Emma Street, cited two municipal code provisions she had reviewed and asked the board to confirm how the city will handle private trees that pose public-safety risks.

Euler told the board: "It authorizes the city forester to require pruning of privately owned trees, obstruct public passages, signage, or lighting," and cited "section 102-48" as establishing that hazardous, diseased or dangerous trees may be designated nuisances requiring abatement by the property owner or, if necessary, by the city with costs assessed to the owner.

City Forester Phil (last name not specified in the transcript) said he had noted the two code sections Euler mentioned and would consult the city attorney. He told the board the trees Euler and staff measured were on private property: "We measured together and determined that all of the trees that he was concerned are all private trees, unfortunately. ... Let me look into that and we'll see what we can do." Phil also said he would speak with the city attorney and Amber Paige and promised a follow-up.

Board members and staff discussed a city-led ordinance review meeting scheduled for Oct. 8 intended to address tree protection and preservation language. Members said the review is in early, brainstorming stages and that the goal is to produce enforceable, clear rules that balance canopy protection and development needs.

No formal motion or vote was recorded on this item at the Oct. 1 meeting. The board recorded the resident's concern, directed staff to confirm legal authority with the city attorney, and noted the pending Oct. 8 ordinance discussion as the venue for more formal policy review.

The board also discussed related pests and regional concerns: a member noted the spotted lanternfly has been detected in nearby Chesterton and South Bend and said homeowners should be aware of host trees such as tree-of-heaven.

The Tree Board said it will report back after staff consults with the city attorney and after the Oct. 8 ordinance conversation; the resident's request remains an open item for follow-up.