Dearborn 2035

Read Mayor Hammoud's Strategic Plan for Dearborn

Understanding the Strategic Plan

Mayor Hammoud and Chief Public Health Officer Ali Abazeed plant a tree together outside the Henry Ford Centennial Library

What is a city strategic plan and why is it important?

A city strategic plan is a roadmap that outlines the community’s long-term vision, priorities, and goals. It serves as a guide for decision-making and resource allocation, ensuring that the city's growth and development align with the needs and aspirations of its residents. It helps address challenges, identify opportunities, and foster collaboration among residents, businesses, and local government.

A employee wearing a yellow vest with "City of Dearborn" printed on the back fixes a residential road.

What are the key components of the strategic plan?

The strategic plan explains what we want to achieve (outcomes), what we’ll do to get there (goals), and how we’ll check our progress (metrics).

Strategic Outcomes: These are the big-picture priorities that guide what we do as a city.
Goals: These are the specific areas we’ll focus on to achieve the strategic outcomes.
Metrics: These are the ways we’ll measure our progress to ensure we’re meeting our goals.
A female member of the Senior Services staff plays cards with two community members.

Were community members involved in creating the plan?

Community input was central to the strategic planning process. 

 

The Mayor and City officials attended town halls, neighborhood association meetings, and other public forums alongside the Mayor, taking comprehensive notes on the ideas, concerns, and aspirations residents shared. A community survey was also distributed to gather broader feedback. 

 

Additionally, we met directly with residents and community groups, and carefully tracked concerns and questions that came through our City call center. The City worked hand in hand with directors across all departments and their staff to identify priorities and ensure the plan reflects the needs and values of our residents.
 

Two female City planners review City codes together

How will the City ensure the plan is implemented effectively?

Within the City administration, every department has a plan to execute their respective measurable goals, timelines, and assigned responsibilities. Annual updates will be shared with the community, and adjustments will be made as needed to address changing circumstances. The City administration will oversee the plan’s implementation and ensure that resources are allocated efficiently.
 

Mayor Hammoud speaks to a female resident holding her small dog,

How will the City keep residents updated on the progress of the strategic plan?

The City will provide an annual update on the progress of the plan, including where we stand with our goals and metrics. The strategic plan is designed to be a living document, meaning it can evolve as we learn throughout the implementation process. As stewards of public resources, we’ll remain transparent about our progress, challenges, and any changes in the years ahead.
 

Call Center: Max answering calls

How can residents stay informed and involved throughout the process?

The City is committed to maintaining open communication and fostering collaboration to ensure the plan’s success. If you have feedback, you can always reach out to the city directly—whether it’s through our call center, emailing us by using the Contact Us link below, talking to your neighborhood liaison, or attending neighborhood association meetings. 

 

This is your city, and your voice matters.
 

Three female members of the Communications Department work together around a conference table. A large print of the 2025 City of Dearborn Calendar is hanging up on the wall.

What timeframe does the strategic plan cover?

The strategic plan spans a 10-year period, providing a framework for both immediate priorities and long-term goals to guide Dearborn's growth and development. The plan is a living document that will be continually reassessed and adjusted as the needs of our community transform and shift. This flexibility ensures the plan remains relevant and effective in addressing challenges and seizing opportunities. 

 

In upholding our commitment to transparency, we will post updates on progress, learnings, and any changes to the plan.

Neighborhood police officer Farhat poses in front of a Dearborn Police vehicle.

What steps are being taken to improve public safety under the strategic plan?

A key focus of the strategic plan is improving traffic safety by addressing speeding and reckless driving through traffic calming measures, enhanced enforcement, and community education campaigns. The plan also includes goals to prepare for emergencies and natural disasters, enhance mental health response services, and reduce violent crimes that impact the public health of the community. Additionally, safeguarding the safety and quality of homes and properties ensures that neighborhoods remain secure and well-maintained, fostering a stronger, safer community.

A female member of the 19th District Court staff speaks with a male police officer at the Court. Behind them, a female colleague is seen in a conversation with others.

How does the strategic plan ensure collaboration across city departments?

The strategic plan creates a unified roadmap that encourages all city departments to work together toward shared goals and outcomes. By setting clear priorities and aligning efforts under the mayor’s vision, the plan promotes collaboration and coordination among departments to address complex challenges and deliver effective solutions. This approach ensures that resources are maximized, communication is streamlined, and every part of the city’s administration is contributing to a cohesive and community-focused strategy.

Staff members sitting together at a table.

How were the 5 strategic outcomes developed?

The five strategic outcomes were developed through a combination of community input, departmental expertise, and Mayor Hammoud’s vision for Dearborn’s future. These outcomes address the city’s most pressing priorities, from protecting residents' safety and health to fostering economic growth and civic engagement. Each outcome reflects a commitment to innovation and growth, while ensuring that city services meet the evolving needs of the community. By aligning these outcomes with actionable goals, the strategic plan provides a clear framework for delivering meaningful results for all residents. 

 

The 5 strategic outcomes are:

Green and Health Dearborn
Economic Opportunity and Mobility
Safety and Justice for All
Civic Engagement and Democracy
Innovative Government
Staff members speak to a vendor at a City event.

How does the plan improve city services and economic development?

To enhance city services, the plan focuses on modernizing technology, improving customer service, and ensuring proactive and accessible communication. The strategic plan promotes economic development by prioritizing local small businesses, creating vibrant business districts, and expanded housing options for residents of all ages and incomes. It supports entrepreneurs by streamlining processes to start, grow, and sustain businesses in Dearborn. These combined efforts aim to create a thriving local economy while delivering innovative, efficient, and resident-focused services.

Assessor: Photo with Jacob and staff

What is the difference between a city strategic plan and a master land use plan?

A master land use plan focuses on the physical development of a city, outlining how land will be used and managed over time, including zoning, housing, transportation, parks, and infrastructure. It serves as a blueprint for the city’s growth and guides long-term planning for land use and urban design. In comparison, a city strategic plan, on the other hand, is broader in scope, addressing the City’s overall vision, priorities, and goals across various sectors such as public safety, economic development, sustainability, and civic engagement. 
While the master land use plan deals primarily with physical space, the strategic plan guides policies, programs, and investments to achieve the City’s long-term aspirations.

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