Click here to view Detroit Environmental Agenda Charter Highlights
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GREEN HIGHLIGHTS IN 2012 REVISED DETROIT CHARTER
THREE SECTIONS IN THE CURRENT CITY CHARTER HAVE SPECIFIC IMPLICATIONS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH.
In our charter, we have the tools of publicly voted mandate to establish citywide recycling, a city-led comprehensive environmental policy, and a Green Initiatives and Sustainable Technologies plan.
The city’s financial challenges and the presence of an Emergency Manager who has the authority to bypass the voter-approved charter present barriers to implementation.
However, where recycling, coordinated environmental policy, and support for green initiatives and sustainable technologies can help build financial and ecological sustainability for City operations, spur economic development, and improve resident well-being, these activities should be pursued.
SECTIONS 6-501 AND 6-502 instruct the Buildings, Safety, Engineering and Environment Department (BSEED) to develop and implement a comprehensive and coordinated environmental policy to conserve and protect the city’s natural resources for the health, safety, and welfare of the people of Detroit.
SECTION 6-509 instructs BSEED to develop a “Green Initiatives and Sustainable Technologies” plan to establish and support green initiatives, technologies, and businesses.
SECTION 7-403 instructs the Department of Public Works to prepare, implement, and update as necessary a comprehensive citywide Recycling Plan for the City of Detroit that provides for the capture of the city’s waste stream prior to disposal.
SECTIONS 9-101 TO 9-103 describe the purpose, composition, and responsibilities of Community Advisory Councils (CAC), which are meant to improve citizen access to City government. District-based CACs are established by ordinance by petition of city residents to City Council.
