Mayor Tom Semaan – New Baltimore, MI
Mayor Tom Semaan – New Baltimore, MI

Environmental Sustainability & Parks

Mayor Tom Semaan is committed to preserving New Baltimore’s natural beauty and ensuring a sustainable future, with its Anchor Bay waterfront as a centerpiece of his vision. His administration prioritizes environmental stewardship, park enhancements, and resilience against climate challenges. Below are the key initiatives and updates in this vital area.

Priorities & Initiatives

Waterfront & Habitat Preservation

New Baltimore’s location along Lake St. Clair inspires Mayor Semaan’s focus on protecting its ecosystems:

  • Walter and Mary Burke Park Project: Restored wetlands and native plantings to combat erosion and support local wildlife, completed in Fall 2024 with state grant support.
  • Shoreline Cleanup: Organized annual volunteer events, removing over 1,000 pounds of debris from the waterfront since 2023.
  • Fishing Access: Added sustainable piers and signage to promote recreational use while protecting aquatic habitats.

Progress Update: The Burke Park restoration earned a 2025 Michigan Green Communities Award for its environmental impact.

Flood Mitigation & Resilience

With flooding a growing concern, Mayor Semaan is taking proactive steps:

  • Green Infrastructure: Maintained rain gardens and permeable surfaces in downtown parks to reduce runoff, updated in 2024.
  • Community Education: Launched and hosted FEMA to over 300 residential property owners who were affected by heavy rain and flooding in 2024.

Progress Update: Flood incidents decreased by 20% in 2024 compared to prior years, thanks to early infrastructure improvements.

Parks & Green Spaces

Mayor Semaan sees parks as essential to quality of life and sustainability:

  • Park Enhancements: Upgraded playgrounds and added shaded seating at Festival Park and Ruedisale Point, completed in Summer 2024. In 2024 a “Parks Master Plan” was adopted, incorporating resident feedback to guide future investments.
  • Tree Planting Initiative: Planted 200 native trees citywide since 2023 to boost carbon capture and beautify public spaces.
  • Trail Expansion: Extended the Anchor Bay Trail by 1.5 miles, connecting downtown to residential areas, with completion expected in 2025.

Progress Update: Park usage increased by 25% in 2024, reflecting community enthusiasm for these improvements.

Mayor Semaan’s Vision

“Our waterfront and parks are treasures that define New Baltimore. My goal is to protect our environment, adapt to challenges like flooding, and create green spaces where families can thrive for generations.”

Looking Ahead

Mayor Semaan’s administration is planning to:

  • Partner with EGLE (Energy Great Lakes & Environment) to create Softened Shoreline and Combat Coastal Erosion.
  • Achieve carbon-neutral city operations by 2030 through solar installations and energy-efficient upgrades.
  • Partner with the Michigan DNR to expand habitat restoration along the shoreline in 2026.

Get Involved

Love our parks and environment? Volunteer for a cleanup, share your ideas, or attend a sustainability workshop! Contact the Mayor’s Office at (586) 725-2151 or tsemaan@cityofnewbaltimore.org.