Warren Township residents urge commissioners to act after Metroparks tree-cutting at dam

Residents from Warren Township told the Board of Trumbull County Commissioners during public comment that they were concerned about tree removal and construction activity at a dam and asked the board to consult county counsel and consider legal options.

Deborah, identifying herself as a Warren Township resident, said work at the site had already removed trees and that the damage was irreversible. She asked the commissioners to pursue prompt legal review and said residents were worried the apparent pace of work by the Metroparks board increased the risk of harm to the community and local resources. "We've seen them already start a project and there doesn't appear to be urgency in the legal action," she said, adding that residents had hoped for a temporary injunction to halt further activity until the legal process plays out.

A second resident who identified concerns about scientific reports and said contacts in defense and research fields had validated those concerns echoed Deborah's request for commissioner attention. The speaker said Metroparks had not answered questions from residents and that the lack of responsiveness had heightened skepticism. "We appreciate the commitment the commissioners have made in our fight with this," Deborah said.

The commissioners acknowledged the remarks, reminded speakers that public comment is limited to three minutes, and said the county would consult with legal counsel about the matter. The board did not take any formal action on the issue at the meeting.