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Council refers tree‑ordinance revamp to study session after residents urge stronger protections

Dearborn Heights City Council · November 28, 2025

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Summary

Councilman Wenzel asked to restore a resolution imposing a moratorium on new permits and to overhaul the city tree ordinance; the mayor and DPW said the item will be studied at a Dec. 9 study session and residents urged stiffer penalties and replacements for cut trees.

Councilman Tom Wenzel asked on Nov. 25 that a previously submitted resolution be restored and that the council impose an immediate moratorium on new tree‑removal permits while the ordinance is revised. He argued the current ordinance has "a lot of defects" and that too many trees are being cut without replacement.

Mayor Baidoun and staff told the council they will take the matter to a study session scheduled for Dec. 9 to develop solutions with DPW and the building department. Mayor Baidoun suggested a requirement to replace removed trees on city property and emphasized the need to balance resident preferences with preserving canopy.

Public comments reinforced the concern: Lisa Hagopian said too many healthy trees have been cut and none replaced on her block; she urged penalties and more city tree planting. Councilmembers asked residents to bring ideas to the study session and asked DPW to prepare a report.