Title
Resolution to Express the City of Ann Arbor's Opposition to SB 1188, the so-called Vegetation Removal Pre-emption Bill
Memorandum
During the 2018 lame duck session of the Michigan Legislature, a bill was introduced in the Michigan Senate that proposes to severely curtail the ability of local municipalities to require the protection of heritage trees and the cultivation of urban green spaces in our communities. The bill would forbid municipalities from requiring the removal of any tree or vegetation or to require the planting of any tree or vegetation in an agricultural, business, commercial, or industrial zoning classification. In addition, the bill would void any ordinance, charter provision, or regulation that contradicts these provisions. In effect, this bill would completely gut the city's ability to protect and promote the urban forest and green spaces on private property in the city of Ann Arbor.
A coalition of communities and professional associations in the state, including the Michigan Municipal League, the Michigan Township Association, the Michigan Association of Planners, SEMCOG, and the Michigan Environmental Council have voiced opposition to the bill and have suggested amendments. However, the amendments do not address the core issues with the legislation: That it will severely curtail Ann Arbor's heritage tree ordinance and that it will preempt the city from requiring the protection and cultivation of green spaces in property developments.
Staff
Prepared by: John Fournier, Assistant City Administrator
Approved by: Howard S. Lazarus, City Administrator
Body
Whereas, The City of Ann Arbor is a community that has always valued its urban forest and has endeavored to protect and cultivate green spaces throughout the city as a way to promote a high quality of life;
Whereas, The presence of a single mature tree can increase the value of a property by an average of $7,130.00, and the presence of more lush landscaping can have an even great...
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