Public Meetings - Detroit, Michigan

The Internal Operations Standing Committee met on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 10:04 AM to consider multiple appointments, settlements, contracts, and other business. The meeting featured public comments on land bank issues and tenant rights, followed by interviews for nominees to the Detroit Land Bank Authority and the Tenants Rights Commission. Several settlements were approved or postponed for further review. Public Comments & Testimony - Joanne Warwick (Detroit D5 resident) criticized the Detroit Land Bank Authority, citing a class action lawsuit over the nuisance abatement program and lack of transparency. She also questioned lobbyist spending and the absence of a right to counsel for property owners losing land to solar farms. - Ronald Foster spoke about inappropriate relationships in government, urging officials to listen to the community and ensure appointees can articulate visions. - Tanisia Sanders (D1 resident, outreach commissioner on the Tenants Rights Commission) expressed concerns about a mayoral appointee to the Tenants Rights Commission and called for a collective plan to address homelessness. - Betty A. Varner (president of Soda Elsewhere Block Association) announced free haircut programs for youth, seniors, and veterans at D's Corner Unisex Salon. - William M. Davis encouraged voter turnout, especially among young people. - Ona Popper raised issues about lawsuits, the Qline, immunity for officials, and toxic dirt holes requiring cleanup. - Angela (caller) made allegations of voter fraud and threatened to expose officials. - Ms. Shea requested more notices for art fairs in Palmer Park, improved bus routes, and stop building and safety retaliation against tenants. - Mr. Smith criticized demolitions of habitable homes, land bank practices, absentee ballot irregularities, and zoning issues. Discussion Items Appointments Interviews - Erica Hill (nominee to Detroit Land Bank Authority, nominated by Councilmember Benson): Discussed her 20+ years of city service, community engagement on Spirit Plaza, and plans to improve transparency, resident education, and a point system to favor local bidders. She committed to keeping council informed. Motion to bring back in one week passed. - Princess Brown (nominee to Tenants Rights Commission, district 4 appointment): A registered nurse and case manager, she shared her experience of illegal eviction and desire to educate tenants. Councilmember Miller objected to an email from the commission president suggesting prior consultation, calling it a dictatorship. Motion to bring back date to be determined passed after clarifying it was a council appointment. - Krista Pate (nominee to Detroit Land Bank Authority, nominated by Councilmember Johnson): A former land bank banker who founded several programs (Own It Now, Side Lot improvements), she emphasized financial self-sufficiency, reducing sold-but-not-compliant homes, and reviewing program bottlenecks. Motion to bring back in one week passed. Settlements and Contracts - 9.1 Settlement ($45,000, police): Approved. - 9.2 Catherine Richardson appointment to Tenants Rights Commission: Brought back in one week. - 9.3 Councilmember McCampbell memo on Community Advisory Council rules: Brought back in two weeks (LPD request). - 9.4 Councilmember Waters memo on mayoral appointments to Tenants Rights Commission: Brought back in two weeks. - 9.5 Councilmember McCampbell memo on data-sharing contracts: Brought back in one week. - 9.6 Settlement Quinnetta Anderson ($200,000, police): Councilmember Miller expressed concerns; motion to bring back in one week. - 9.7 Councilmember Benson memo on estate planning program income eligibility: Brought back in four weeks. - 10.1 Contract increase ($210,000): Brought back in one week. - 10.2 IT asset disposal contract (Troy, MI, $0 city cost): Removed from agenda at administration's request. - 10.3 Right to Counsel grant extension (legal representation for eviction cases): Approved. - 10.4 Motorola radio system contract ($16 million, 5 years): After questioning Public Safety IT Director Robert Millinder, moved to formal with recommendation for approval. - 10.5 Additional funding for legal counsel in eviction cases (federal grant): Brought back in one week, with request for in-person presentation from law department. - 10.6 Settlement Shakira Cooper ($600,000, alleged injuries): Approved. - 10.7 Legal questions on acquisition of 400 Bagley (Leland House): Brought back in one week. - 10.8 Settlement Allstate vs. City ($10,000, DOT): Approved. - 10.9 Settlement Patricia Duncan ($50,000, police): Approved. - 10.10 Settlement Antonita Fleming ($15,000, DOT): Approved. - 10.11 Settlement Brian Diaz ($5,000,000, DOT): Brought back in one week for further discussion. - 10.12 Settlement Joshua Heard estate ($40,000, police): Approved. - 10.13 Settlement Heather Price ($25,000, DOT): Approved. - 10.14 Indemnification for John Roach (Media Services): Approved. - 10.15 Representation for paramedic David Ghesquiere: Approved. - 10.16 Settlement Gerard Townsend ($12,000, DOT): Approved. - 10.17 Settlement Scott Geronda (representing estate, $22,500, DOT): Approved. - 10.18 Detroit Land Bank appointment (Jayvon Glenn): Sent to formal. - 10.19 Detroit Right to Counsel grant ($1.5 million): Approved. - 10.20 Michigan Urban Youth Alliance charitable gaming license: Approved. - 10.21 Detroit Festival of Books charitable gaming license: Approved. - 10.22 Closed session request (Gayanga vs. City of Detroit): Moved to formal, scheduled for June 16. Key Outcomes - Erica Hill nomination to Detroit Land Bank Authority brought back in one week. - Princess Brown nomination to Tenants Rights Commission brought back date to be determined. - Krista Pate nomination to Detroit Land Bank Authority brought back in one week. - Motorola contract ($16M) moved to formal for approval. - Multiple settlements approved: 9.1, 10.3, 10.6, 10.8, 10.9, 10.10, 10.12, 10.13, 10.14, 10.15, 10.16, 10.17, 10.19, 10.20, 10.21. - Several items brought back for further review: 9.2, 9.3, 9.4, 9.5, 9.6, 9.7, 10.1, 10.5, 10.7, 10.11. - Closed session on Gayanga lawsuit scheduled for June 16, 2026.

The Budget and Finance Committee of the Detroit City Council met on June 3, 2026, at 1:00 PM (presumed) to discuss a range of items including contract amendments, a Neighborhood Enterprise Zone (NEZ) certificate request, budget memos, and public comments. The meeting was chaired by Councilmember Anton McCampbell, with Vice Chair Letitia Johnson and Councilmember Mary Waters present. Several items were deferred to future meetings for further information, while key contracts and the NEZ application were approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Land Bank and Property Rights: A speaker criticized the Detroit Land Bank Authority for allegedly taking property without just compensation, referencing a federal class-action lawsuit. They argued the state Land Bank Act prohibits eminent domain, and urged council to stop the practice. - Property Maintenance: Another speaker expressed frustration with vacant lots and contaminated dirt, calling for urgent action and questioning the effectiveness of PILOT programs and tax breaks. - Voter Fraud Allegation: A speaker claimed absentee ballot fraud in recent Detroit elections, demanding the elections director be called to testify. - Community Announcements: Multiple speakers shared information about free haircut programs, senior support, and veteran discounts, and requested improved transparency (e.g., posting transcripts online). - Housing and Land Bank: One speaker urged the council to transfer city-owned homes to residents who have maintained them for years. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the May 20, 2026, meeting were approved by unanimous consent. Discussion Items - Contract Amendment – Keen Mass Appraisal (Item 6.1): Deputy CFO and Assessor Alvin Horn presented a one-year, no-cost extension (ending June 14, 2027) to validate regression valuation models and train city staff. The contract, originally from June 2023, supports the property tax reform ordinance and mayor's executive order. Councilmembers questioned the vendor's familiarity with Detroit and the connection to the IAAO study. The item was approved as amended (original contract number 6005272-A1). - Auto Wash Service Contracts (Items 6.2 and 6.3): Two contracts for fleet vehicle washing were discussed: Downtown Auto Wash ($383,532) and Star Auto Wash ($138,780), both for two years. Councilmembers inquired about geographic equity, noting a lack of east-side vendors. Raymond Green from OCP stated the city is actively seeking additional east-side vendors. Both contracts were approved. - NEZ Certificate – David Whitney Building (Item 6.5): The Roxbury Group seeks approval for 79 condo units (former apartments) in the historic David Whitney Building. The building previously had an Oprah abatement that burned off at end of 2025; the hotel portion now pays full taxes ($1M/year). The NEZ would freeze building-assessment portions for owner-occupied units. Councilmembers questioned workforce details, parking, and public benefit. The developer noted union labor and voluntary 20% affordable set-aside in the past. Approved. - Budget Memos and Deferrals (Items 5.1-5.12): Several budget memos from Councilmember McCampbell and others were introduced and deferred to future meetings (ranging from one to three weeks) to allow for additional information, especially from the Office of Budget and LPD. - Media Services Budget Questions (Items 6.6-6.8): Memos from Councilmembers Benson, Waters, and Johnson regarding the Media Services Department budget were received and filed. - Public Safety Fee Calculation (Item 6.9): A memo from Vice Chair Johnson requesting information on how public safety fees for large events are calculated was deferred for one week. Key Outcomes - Approved: Item 6.1 (Keen Mass Appraisal contract amendment) moved to formal with recommendation to approve as amended. - Approved: Items 6.2 and 6.3 (auto wash contracts) moved to formal with recommendation to approve. - Approved: Item 6.5 (NEZ certificate for David Whitney Building condos) moved to formal with recommendation to approve. - Removed from Agenda: Item 6.4 (duplicate of 6.1) was removed. - Received and Filed: Items 6.6, 6.7, 6.8 (Media Services budget memos). - Deferred: Items 5.1-5.12 (various budget memos) and 6.9 (public safety fee info) to future meetings. - Adjourned: Motion carried unanimously.

The Detroit City Council held its formal session on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. The meeting began with the approval of the journal from May 19, 2026, and an invocation by Pastor Matthew Jones of the Fountain of Truth Christian Centers (District Four). A key presentation on the Plan Detroit master plan update was delivered by the Planning and Development Department. The council also considered EMS ambulance contracts, adopted resolutions, set a public hearing, and heard extensive public comment. Consent Calendar - Journal of the session of Tuesday, May 19, 2026, was approved. - Routine referrals of reports from various city departments to standing committees were made. Public Comments & Testimony - Cassie Jones McBride (Western Wayne County NAACP) thanked council for advancing a resolution recognizing post-traumatic prison disorder. - Shawana Vaughn (Silent Cry) urged passage of the resolution, calling it her "life’s work." - Jacqueline Robinson (COO, People’s Action): Supported recognizing incarceration-related trauma as essential for healing and public safety. - Yusuf Qualls – Shared personal story of 28 years in prison; stressed need for mental health services for returning citizens. - Angela Davenport (Executive Director, Voting Access for All Coalition): Supported the resolution, noting trauma often goes unrecognized in reentry. - Ulrico Welch – Requested street naming for Nazi Harris and a day of commemoration for children harmed by caregivers. - Darius Barron – Returning citizen who served 35 years; said nobody had asked about his mental health since release 21 days ago. - Shaw Williams – Alleged corruption and illegal voting; called for enforcement of laws. - Fidel L – Criticized the water drain-off fee; accused council of ignoring residents. - Betty A. Varner (President, Soda Elsworth Block Association) – Supported a proposed mini-market with gas pumps at Fenkell and Wyoming, calling the area a food desert. Asked for redevelopment of the Fenkell Corridor and elimination of land use hearing fees. - Pastor Lorenzo Sewell (Win Eddy Church) – Accused council of misappropriating funds, giving money to suburban billionaires instead of Detroit residents. Called for a movement to reclaim city resources. - Josh Mann – Opposed Flock license plate readers and AI surveillance, citing privacy and security concerns. - Simone Wilkes – Asked council to support Section 8 voucher holders becoming homeowners and address high car insurance costs. - Online callers: Several urged support for the post-traumatic prison disorder resolution; others raised issues including property tax overcharges, city retirees’ pension cuts, master plan engagement concerns, and complaints about noise from Riverview Rehab. Discussion Items - Plan Detroit Master Plan Update – Deputy Director Dara O’Byrne and Project Manager Julie Connecticut presented the quarterly update. They reported over 800 participants in district place-types meetings and additional stakeholder interviews with Hispanic, Bengali, Caribbean, disability, youth, and parent groups. The final draft plan and map will be released for a required 63-day public comment period before going to the Planning Commission and then City Council. - EMS Supplemental Contracts (17.1 – 17.3) – Three contracts for private ambulance services (Superior Air Ground Ambulance, Hart EMS, American EMS) totaling over $5 million. Fire Department Deputy Commissioner Hellman confirmed a potential 2-year timeline to purchase ambulances and estimated a $50 million increase over 4 years to bring EMS in-house. Council debated outsourcing vs. in-house services and protections for residents from ambulance debt. - Post-Traumatic Prison Disorder Resolution (17.4) – Acknowledges trauma from incarceration and supports policies for trauma-focused therapy, stable housing, and re-entry programs. Sponsored by Councilmember McCampbell. - Youth Curfew Ordinance (18.5) – A one-day curfew for fireworks (June 22 with a weather make-up date). Reported out of committee without recommendation; concerns raised about impact on 16- and 17-year-olds. - Public Hearing Set (18.6) – For the curfew ordinance, initially date to be determined; later amended to June 15, 2026. Key Outcomes - Line items 17.1 – 17.3 (EMS contracts): Approved 6-1-0. Objections from members Calloway and Miller. Waiver request objected to by same members; motion failed. - Line item 17.4 (Post-Traumatic Prison Disorder Resolution): Approved unanimously. Councilmember Young joined as co-sponsor. - Line item 18.5 (Youth Curfew Ordinance): Approved on first reading. A public hearing was set for June 15, 2026 (18.6). - Planning Department: Directed to continue engagement and provide updated maps and policies. - Request for Cost-Benefit Analysis (City Club Apartments): Motion by Councilmember Johnson passed without objection. - Adjournment: Council adjourned at an unspecified time. Other Actions - Walk-on Items: Approved without objection: - Recognizing June as Gun Violence Awareness Month. - Resolution in support of the “Let There Be Light Gateway” campaign for the Eight Mile-Greenfield intersection. - Recognizing June as LGBTQ+ Pride Month. - Memorandum to LPD to draft a buffer zone ordinance for health clinics (referred to Public Health & Safety). - Appointments and Resignations: None noted. - Media Services Issue: Deputy Director Cochrane reported a hardware failure affecting Zoom for public comment; vendor expected Thursday, June 4. Meetings would proceed with in-person testimony only until fixed. - Waivers: Approved for items 18.2, 18.3, 18.7–18.10, and the Let There Be Light Gateway resolution. - Items Removed: 18.11 removed from agenda after being addressed as 17.4 (amended resolution).

The Detroit City Council Committee met on June 1, 2026 to discuss a range of legislative items, including contracts, public safety technology, and a proposed emergency curfew ordinance for the annual fireworks display. The meeting featured detailed discussions on gunshot detection technology, responses to youth curfew concerns, and updates on city software systems. Several items were deferred for further review or public comment. Consent Calendar - Unfinished business items 5.2 (demolition contract) and 5.3 (DPD uniforms) were brought back for one week. - Items 5.4 (hydrogen fuel buses report), 5.5, 5.6 (pre-sale inspection ordinance), 5.8 (DPD storage requirements), and 5.9 (Lee Plaza encroachments) were also deferred for one to three weeks. - Items 5.7, 5.10, 5.11, 5.13–5.15, 5.16, and 5.17 were received and filed without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Virtual public comment was moved to the end of the agenda due to ongoing audio issues on Zoom; no virtual comments were heard before the meeting recessed. Discussion Items - Contract 5.1 (Contaminated Dirt) – Sent back from formal session for a closed session discussion; the committee deferred it to a future date (TBD). - Contract 5.12 (Gunshot Detection Technology Extension) – A nine-month, $2 million extension with SoundThinking, starting July 1, 2026. Representatives from DPD and the vendor defended the technology, citing reduced response times (down to 6 minutes 49 seconds after removing outliers) and a 50% reduction in gunshot incidents in the 9th Precinct. Concerns raised by Chair McCampbell included the lack of a public audit, unknown sensor locations, and data retention by a third party. DPD confirmed that sensors only record one second before and after a detected gunshot, audio is stored in Oregon, and all data is deleted within 60 days of contract termination. DPD officers gave emotional testimony about lives saved due to rapid alerts, while the chair emphasized the need for preventive measures alongside detection. The item was deferred for one week to allow public comment. - Item 6.19 (Fireworks Curfew Ordinance) – A proposed emergency ordinance for the June 22, 2026 Detroit Fireworks, establishing a superseding curfew at 8 p.m. for minors under 18 in a defined downtown area. DPD and the Law Department stressed it is identical to previous years and not related to recent teen takeovers. Council Member Waters strongly opposed the blanket age limit, arguing it punishes responsible 16- and 17-year-olds and that officers should focus on bad actors. Chair McCampbell echoed concerns about the message sent to youth, especially those who are caregivers. DPD clarified that curfew enforcement is secondary to other disorderly conduct. The committee voted to send the item to new business for introduction and public hearing scheduling with no recommendation. - Item 6.1 (Building Permitting Software Renewal) – A two-year renewal of a licensing and permitting software system (Citysourced), valued at $1.78 million increase for a total of $5.18 million. BSEED General Manager James Foster explained the software enabled same-day permits and will be evaluated for an enterprise-wide solution. The committee approved the item and moved it to new business. Key Outcomes - Contract 5.12 deferred one week for public comment; chair committed to moving it out of committee before contract expiration. - Item 6.19 forwarded to new business for introduction and public hearing with no recommendation. - Item 6.1 approved and moved to new business. - Virtual public comment postponed to next meeting due to technical issues.

The Public Health and Safety Standing Committee met on June 1, 2026, to consider a lengthy agenda of contracts, resolutions, and reports. Due to a Zoom software issue, virtual public comment was not held, and several items were postponed to future meetings. The committee approved most items, sending many to formal session or new business, with a focus on health department contracts, police equipment, public works projects, and behavioral health initiatives. Consent Calendar - Items 6.2 and 6.3 (Mercy demo contracts) were approved to formal session with a recommendation to approve. - Item 6.5 (contract extension for Grand Circus Park work, no cost increase) was approved to formal. - Item 6.8 (exhaust contamination removal system for fire department, time extension only) was approved to formal. - Items 6.11, 6.12, 6.16, 6.17, 6.18, and 6.23 (public works contracts and grant application) were approved to formal, with 6.11 additionally sent to new business. - Item 6.20 (contaminated dirt follow-up memo) and 6.21 (dangerous building findings) were received and filed. - Items 6.28 (Detroit Land Bank report) was received and filed. - Items 6.29 and 6.30 (resolutions on MDOT road diet and 'Let There Be Light' gateway) were reconsidered and sent to formal for approval. - Item 6.34 (memo on contaminated dirt follow-up questions) was received and filed. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were taken due to a Zoom software failure. The chair closed public comment and advised interested parties to submit written comments to the clerk's office or provide comment during the formal session the following morning. Discussion Items - Health Department Contracts (6.4, 6.9, 6.14, 6.26): Christina Floyd, Deputy Director of Public Health, presented four items: an ADA-compliant door system installation ($54,560), a medical supplies contract with McKesson ($1.2 million), an increase for the Uber Health ride-sharing program ($135,000, bringing total to $785,000), and acceptance of donations for the Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day Summit. All were approved to formal. - Police Firearms Purchase (6.6): Commander Stacey Alvarado and Captain Jason Adams explained the need for 200 9mm handguns ($75,400) to replace weapons taken by retiring officers under their collective bargaining agreement. No Detroit-based FFLs were available. Approved to formal. - Leads Online Software (6.15): Robert Mullen (Public Safety IT) and Captain Marcus Thurkill detailed the pawn shop and scrap metal tracking software used nationwide. The three-year amendment increases funds by $613,930 (total $1,134,734). Approved to new business. - Basement Backup Protection Program (6.7): Nali Patel (DWSD) reported on the ARPA-funded program that has serviced nearly 1,000 homes. The $209,047 amendment will fund about 15 additional homes. Approved to new business. - Public Works Items (6.11, 6.12, 6.16–6.18, 6.23): A DPW director (not named) explained the right-of-way management software system (6.16) uses Miovision technology for traffic monitoring, without license plate readers. Other items included bituminous surface removal ($6.9M), safe streets evaluation ($1.72M), traffic software maintenance, East Grand Boulevard reconstruction ($9.73M), and a grant application for technical assistance. All approved to formal, with 6.11 also to new business. - Behavioral Health Grants and Donations (6.22, 6.24): Valencia Lyle (Director of Behavioral Health Initiatives) presented a $1.59M grant application for the COSAP program to integrate EMS into mental health crisis response, and an in-kind donation of $150,000 from the Center for Policing Equity for digital platform review. Both approved to new business. - Detroit Public Safety Foundation Donation (6.25): A $50,000 donation for the Occupy Summer Initiative was approved to new business. - Resolutions and Reports (6.27, 6.31–6.32, 6.33, 6.35, 6.36): - 6.27 (recognizing post-traumatic prison disorder) was sent to new business. - 6.31–6.32 (additional resolutions) were sent to formal. - 6.33 (Flock safety update on ALPR) was brought back in two weeks. - 6.35 (memo on Shot Spotter arrests and lawsuits) was brought back in three weeks. - 6.36 (report on vandalized fire hydrants) was brought back in one month. Key Outcomes - Approvals to Formal Session: Items 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5, 6.6, 6.8, 6.9, 6.11, 6.12, 6.14, 6.16, 6.17, 6.18, 6.22, 6.23, 6.24, 6.25, 6.26, 6.29, 6.30, 6.31, and 6.32 were sent to formal session with recommendations to approve. - Approvals to New Business: Items 6.7, 6.11, 6.15, 6.22, 6.23, 6.24, 6.25, and 6.27 were also sent to new business for further deliberation. - Postponements: Items 6.10 (scrap metal removal) and 6.13 were brought back in one week; 6.33 in two weeks; 6.35 in three weeks; 6.36 in one month. - Received and Filed: Items 6.20, 6.21, 6.28, 6.34 were received and filed. - Reconsideration: Items 6.29 and 6.30 were reconsidered and redirected to formal session. - Public Comment: Closed due to technical issues; written and in-person comment opportunities noted. - Adjournment: The committee adjourned after completing the agenda.

The meeting began with a technical issue: microphones were not connected to the Zoom system, preventing virtual participants from hearing. Council President Mary Waters explained that in-person public comment would proceed, followed by recess to allow IT to fix the system. Legal counsel confirmed the meeting was recorded and broadcast on channel 10, with Zoom being an accommodation, not a requirement. Only in-person public comments were heard. Public Comments & Testimony - Stephen Hashu (also representing Detroit Advocates of the Blind) spoke strongly against funding ShotSpotter or other mechanized law enforcement tools, arguing for human law enforcement and expressing disappointment that police technology is funded while DDOT service levels remain below pre-COVID levels. - Brandon (representing Lovely Vibes Barn Grill) requested assistance with the Green Light program to improve safety outside the establishment. He described efforts such as outside security and walking customers to cars, and sought a meeting with Council President Tate to establish a better relationship with DPD and community leaders. He noted the business provides 30 jobs. Discussion Items - The council briefly discussed the technical difficulties and legal requirements for recording and broadcasting the meeting. Key Outcomes - The committee recessed at the call of the chair after in-person public comment concluded, pending IT repair to resume virtual participation.

The Detroit City Council held a formal session on May 26, 2026, starting in the morning with a roll call followed by an invocation. The meeting included public comments, discussion of standing committee reports, and votes on contracts and resolutions. Key topics included youth programming, public safety, and property development. Public Comments & Testimony - Walter Brown requested additional bus benches and shelters, better grass cutting training, tree planting near Stellantis truck routes, and summer jobs for students in landscaping. - Denise Lomax presented 3,000 signatures and reported three children molested in her community, criticized the city’s response, and announced a community takeover initiative starting at Grand River and Plymouth. - Betty Lyons accused the council and former mayor Mike Duggan of corruption, mishandling property taxes, and failing Leland tenants. - Fidel L urged the city to open streets and parks for youth, create jobs, and redirect funding to community projects. - Michelle George raised concerns about salmonella from backyard chickens, pit bull ordinance enforcement, marijuana edibles packaging, and the need for more Black doctors. - Marshall Simons flagged a missing traffic signal at Woodward and Learned, calling for its reinstatement before summer for pedestrian safety. - Online Speaker Betty A. Varner (President Soda Els World Black Association) asked for fair investment in the McNichols corridor, support for a mini market with gas pumps, and a waiver of a $1,500 land use hearing fee. - Online Speaker Bobby Johnson argued that youth takeovers stem from lack of recreational spaces, criticized over-policing of teens, and called for more investment in youth programs. - Multiple other speakers addressed reparations for Black Bottom/Paradise Valley, property tax reform, affordable housing, teen takeovers, public safety in Martin Luther King Homes, and the living wage for city employees. Discussion Items - Line Items 18.10 (Living Wage Increase): Deputy Budget Director Matthew Space confirmed the wage increase is budgeted in the four-year financial plan. Councilmembers discussed potential local economic benefits and retention/recruitment improvements. Approved. - Line Items 21.1, 21.2, 21.4 (Ambulance Contracts): Councilmember Santiago Romero moved to postpone for one week after repeated delays; Council President Tate and Pro Tem Young emphasized the need for a final vote next week. Postponed. - Line Item 19.7 (Summer Camp Contracts): Assistant Director Alex Weatherup confirmed zero cost for campers this year. Councilmember Johnson noted east side host sites (Camp Restore Detroit, Perfecting Church) and called for more east side options. Approved after discussion. - Line Item 20.3 (Junction McGraw Brownfield Redevelopment): Councilmember Santiago Romero noted robust community engagement and commitments from the developer, with no data center or ice facility use. Developer identified potential users like Ford, DTE, FedEx, GM, Lowe’s. Approved. - Line Item 21.12 (Request to Speak on Gas/Food Prices): Councilmember Santiago Romero opposed granting special speaking time, suggesting town halls or public comment. Pro Tem Young supported allowing extra time. Motion to approve passed; referred to Neighborhood and Community Services Standing Committee. - Line Item 18.5 (Legal Representation for Housing): Initially approved, then reconsidered and failed (objections from Johnson, McCampbell, Santiago Romero). - Reconsideration of 18.5: Motion to reconsider passed; subsequent motion to approve failed. - Walk-On Items: Four items added to new business, including two contracts for firehouse renovations and DPD boulevard renovation (approved), a calendar amendment for District 6 evening community meeting (approved), and a resolution for Jada’s Promise Day (referred to Public Health and Safety Committee). - Pro Tem Young requested a DPD report on the 25 unsolved murders in Martin Luther King Homes, including community services and trauma support. Motion to assign a memo to DPD approved. Key Outcomes - Living Wage Increase (18.10): Approved. Effective July 1, 2026, as budgeted. - Ambulance Contracts (21.1, 21.2, 21.4): Postponed to June 2, 2026 for final vote. - Summer Camp Contracts (19.7): Approved; all camps free this year. - Junction McGraw Brownfield Plan (20.3): Approved. 400+ living-wage jobs anticipated, no data center or ice facility. - Zoning Amendment (20.6): Ordinance passed (5-0 roll call) to rezone properties near West Warren and I-96 to B4 and M2 districts. - Legal Representation Contract (18.5): Failed on reconsideration. - Request to Speak on Gas/Food Prices (21.12): Approved and referred to Neighborhood and Community Services Committee. - MLK Homes Murders Report: Memo assigned to Detroit Police Department. - Gun Violence Awareness Month Resolution: Referred to Public Health and Safety Committee; assignment to draft a resolution for next week approved.

The committee met on Thursday, May 21, 2026, to consider a rezoning and master plan amendment for the Junction McGraw redevelopment, a related brownfield plan, and several other agenda items. The meeting included extensive public comment, presentations from developers and city staff, and votes on multiple items. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Smith (in-person) demanded a meeting with Council President Pro Tempore Coleman Young regarding Cronos Concrete, citing dust, dumping, and blight in District 3. He threatened to protest if no meeting occurred. Councilmember Young responded expressing safety concerns about protests near his home and family, and urged a proper process. Several virtual callers supported Mr. Smith, criticizing the council’s responsiveness. - Other callers raised issues including: the Detroit bankruptcy discharge and pension concerns (William M. Davis); a mobile unit from Wayne Metro (Betty A. Varner); opposition to data centers referencing Utah (Cindy Dara); and allegations of election fraud and retaliation by landlords (Blackbag, Shay). - On the rezoning public hearing, nine callers spoke. Supporters noted extensive community engagement and potential jobs; opponents cited insufficient mitigation for truck traffic, rodent migration, property value impacts, and called for stronger community benefits agreements. - On the brownfield plan public hearing, seven callers spoke, questioning the definition of blight, the use of tax increment financing, and urging a moratorium on brownfield redevelopment. Discussion Items - Rezoning and Master Plan Amendment (Items 9.5 & 5): Staff from the City Planning Commission and DEGC presented a request to rezone approximately 25 acres from R2 (two-family residential) to M2 (light industrial) and B4 (general business) to facilitate a 400,000-square-foot warehouse and logistics facility. The master plan would be amended to light industrial and medium-density residential. Developer Latimer Ashley Capital outlined community engagement (over 15 meetings), changes including a smaller building, a new road, retention pond, and a pedestrian walkway honoring Kronk Gym. Councilmember Santiago Romero expressed initial opposition but supported after community feedback, asking about job commitments, wages (union scale, $58,000/year), and Detroit resident hiring (target 50-60%). Councilmember Young sought metrics on property value increases and spin-off jobs. The public hearing closed with a motion to send to formal session with recommendation to approve. - Brownfield Plan (Item 7): A traditional brownfield plan for the same 145 parcels proposed $62 million in redevelopment with $18.5 million in tax increment financing eligible activities (environmental testing, demolition, infrastructure). Reimbursement over 30 years. The City of Detroit Brownfield Redevelopment Authority presented. Public comments included concerns about soil management and rodent migration. Councilmember Santiago Romero asked about resident incentives; staff explained TIFF only applies to development parcels. Motion to send to formal session approved. - Line Items 8.1 and 8.2: Motion to bring back in two weeks. - Line Item 8.3: Property sale at 1755 14th Street (near Michigan Central Station) for innovation district, approved. - Line Items 8.5, 8.7, 8.8: Brought back in two or three weeks. - Line Item 9.4: CDBG reprogramming to consolidate funds for home buyer assistance. Councilmember Young requested metrics on housing crisis goals; staff noted 3,000 new units and 10,000 preserved under 2025 strategy. Motion to approve. - Line Item 9.9: Property sale to Genesis Hope for affordable homeownership via community land trust, approved. Key Outcomes - The rezoning (Line 5) and master plan amendment (Line 9.5) were moved to formal session with a recommendation to approve. - The Brownfield plan (Line 7) was moved to formal session with recommendation to approve. - Line items 8.1, 8.2, 8.5, 9.3, 9.6, 9.7 were brought back in two weeks; 8.7 and 8.8 brought back in three weeks. - Line items 8.3, 8.4, 9.1, 9.2, 9.4, 9.9 were sent to formal session with approval recommendations. - Line items 8.6 and 9.8 were received and filed. - Line items 9.10 and 9.11 were referred to appropriate departments.

The Detroit City Council met on May 21, 2026, to consider routine approvals, public comments, and several major agenda items. The meeting included discussions on freeway mowing contracts, a proposed development at Butzel Family Center, a re-entry grant application, and multiple postponements. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Consent Calendar - Line 5.1: Parade request for 2026 Ford Fireworks (June 22) – moved to formal session with recommendation for approval. - Line 5.2: International Placemaking Week event (June 24) – moved to formal session. - Line 5.4: Donation of $140,000 for Chandler Park shelter – moved to formal session. - Line 6.1: Concert of Colors in Mexicantown (June 27) – moved to formal session. - Line 6.2: Fleet vehicle repair amendment (extension, $1 increase) – moved to formal session. - Line 6.3: Bomb disposal unit refurbishment extension – moved to formal session. - Line 6.7: As-needed rental vehicle contract extension (ARPA funding, $200,000) – moved to formal session. - Line 6.8: List of contracts subject to delegated approval (six youth summer camp contracts, $75,000 each) – moved to formal session after discussion. - Line 6.9: Smart Re-entry Demonstration Grant application ($500,000 federal + $500,000 match) – moved to formal session. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Smith (in-person): Criticized Councilmembers Benson, Miller, and Meoung for refusing to meet with him. Claimed 800 signatures from District 5 residents regarding Cronos concrete and downzoning. Threatened to protest if not granted a meeting. - Ms. Cunningham (virtual): Offered prayers and announced a D-Dot meeting with pizza and raffle. - William M. Davis (virtual): Called for equal treatment of the general pension fund (more Black, Brown, female members) compared to other pension funds. Urged higher voter turnout. - Unnamed caller (virtual): Raised rodent migration concerns at Detroit People’s Food Co-op and criticized a blight definition as unconstitutional, alleging it labels over one-third of Detroit properties as blighted per se. - Betty A. Varner (virtual): Advocated for the Fink Corridor, noting new businesses including a mini market with fresh produce at Finkel and Wyoming. - Legendary Detroit (virtual): Accused officials of cheating the public, referencing the death of Kinesha and the gubernatorial race. - Mr. Foster (virtual): Urged council to be true to their words and take stronger stances on poverty and community conditions. - Owner Paper / Carolyn Hughes (virtual): Opposed freeway mowing contracts (Items 6.4–6.6, total $6 million) as illegal and wasteful, questioned rental vehicle contract (6.7), and asked for explanation of the re-entry grant (6.9). She also stated the proposed Butzel development was unwanted by residents. Discussion Items - Butzel Family Center Development (Line 5.5): Councilmember Miller requested a written analysis to understand how city land became available for sale, noting that the BZA denied a variance and the community appeal failed. She postponed the item for two weeks pending information from HRD. Councilmember Benson acknowledged prior public meetings but Miller argued outreach was insufficient. - Freeway Mowing Contracts (Lines 6.4–6.6): Three contracts totaling $6.7 million for mowing I-94 and I-75. Discussion centered on state reimbursement (currently $675,000 annually vs. actual costs). Councilmember Young questioned legal options for requiring the state to pay; Law Department’s Anderson said litigation is unlikely but better communication is needed. The items were postponed two weeks. - Re-Entry Grant (Line 6.9): Tafiri Brenton explained the $1 million grant would fund a re-entry liaison and partner with Let’s Get It Goodwill and Detroit Recovery Project. He noted 80% of returning citizens from MDOC come to Detroit, and 60% recidivate without employment/housing. Councilmember Benson praised the effort as “how Detroit takes care of its own.” Key Outcomes - Postponed for two weeks: Line 5.3 (Eliza Howe Park improvements), Line 5.5 (Butzel analysis), Line 5.6 (affordability item – at request of Member McCampill), and Lines 6.4–6.6 (freeway mowing contracts). - Brought back TBD: Line 5.7 (Josh Mann video on parks and arts). - All other items moved to formal session with recommendations for approval. - Member reports: Councilmember Miller announced a coffee hour on May 22 at Cafe Noir (9405 John R). - No recorded objections on any motion.