Residents raise placement, damage concerns as city explains reforestation program

Multiple residents used the city council meeting to press the administration on tree planting and related impacts as the city moves forward with a reforestation program funded by a voter‑approved millage. Resident Nelson said he opposes flying the pride flag at City Hall (raised as an upcoming event) and also used public comment to discuss trees, and resident Steven Meitzler said a recently planted tree on his street sits over his property’s main drain and warned of future root damage.

City Manager Mark Vanderpool told the council the city removed about 12,000 neighborhood trees because of emerald ash borer and is undertaking a large reforestation program to restore tree canopy in rights of way. Vanderpool said the city’s intent is to return tree‑lined streets to their earlier condition and acknowledged downsides such as leaf cleanup. He described efforts to plant deeper‑rooting and diverse Michigan species to avoid past vulnerability to single‑species pests.

Council members and staff addressed placement concerns and said the city provides advance notice before planting. Councilmember Radke said the city is “simply reforesting the community,” and emphasized the long‑term benefits; he also quoted data on tree benefits and property values. Vanderpool and staff said they try to avoid planting over water and sewer connections (so‑called “buffalo boxes”) and will review specific resident requests where placement would interfere with utilities. Public comments included requests for improved notice, and staff said the city will work to flag addresses and improve outreach as planting continues in phases. No ordinance change or formal policy vote occurred at the meeting.