Public Meetings - Detroit, Michigan

On March 13, 2026, the Detroit City Council held a budget hearing for the Media Services Department. Director Brittany Brown, Chief of Staff David Bowser, and Agency CFO Andre Blair presented the FY2027 budget. The hearing focused on department operations, staffing levels, service improvements, and council members' concerns about coverage, accessibility, and efficiency. Department Presentation Media Services is responsible for ensuring residents are informed about city government activities via Channel 10 and digital platforms. The department has 38 full-time staff, with 80–90% of its budget allocated to personnel. It received 1,578 requests in the past year, including 500 photo/video requests. Between January 1 and March 10, 2026, it handled 35 city council requests, 29 mayoral press conferences, 19 external department requests, 10 formal requests, and 9 Board of Police Commissioners requests. The general fund budget increased from $1.57 million to $4.27 million, primarily due to shifting positions from the PEG fund and adding three new positions. Council Discussion - Council President Tate raised concerns about the lack of closed captioning on archived videos and the clunky virtual meeting system, which causes difficulties transitioning between committees. He requested improvements before the budget is finalized and offered to coordinate with IT on the Zoom issues. - Council Member Miller questioned whether current staffing (3 graphic designers, 2–6 video/photo staff) can adequately serve 11 council members and the mayor. She argued for at least 3 videographers and 5 graphic staff and made a motion to add additional positions, which was placed into executive session. She also asked for a detailed explanation of the budget jump from $1.57M to $4.27M. - Council Member Johnson noted that council had previously pushed for its own media services team due to heavy demand. She urged consideration of expanding staffing and ensuring council events receive proper coverage. She also requested that social media pages share council member activities. - Council Member McCall asked about involving all areas of government in strategic storytelling and emphasized the need for digital engagement and language access. - Council Member Pro Tim Young asked about developing educational programming about city government and implementing AI to improve efficiency. He cited potential savings of $920,000, operational efficiency increases of 50–80%, workload reductions of 35–40%, and productivity gains of 40–70%. He also suggested programming on Detroit's diverse history, including immigrant communities and the city's cultural heritage. - Council Member Waters expressed concern that council events are sometimes deprioritized when mayoral events occur, leading to cancellations. She stressed the importance of including local Detroit contractors in the bidding process and thanked the department for its coverage on deed fraud. - Council Member Calloway requested changing Channel 10’s music to Motown instrumentals. She asked for clearer processes for submitting announcements, including timelines and branding guidelines. She advocated for more consistent collaboration with city institutions such as the Charles H. Wright Museum and the Detroit Historical Museum, and for campaigns that include all council members. Administration Responses - Chief of Staff Bowser acknowledged the need for advanced planning and committed to regular meetings with council offices to map out events. He stated the department can internally flex and add staff as needed but needs more information on council’s specific demands. He also pledged to work with OCP to improve outreach to local contractors. - Director Brown committed to addressing closed captioning with vendor ENCO within two weeks. She said the department is reviewing equipment to streamline Zoom transitions and expects improvements within 30 days. She outlined a shift from one-off posts to coordinated campaigns, highlighted a new women’s history campaign, and stated that AI tools are being explored for greater efficiency. - CFO Blair explained that the general fund budget rise from $1.57M to $4.27M results from moving 19 positions from the PEG fund and transferring three positions from the mayor’s office, plus increased contractual services. A detailed breakdown will be provided in writing. Key Outcomes - The council moved the entire Media Services budget into executive session for further deliberation (motion by President Tate, no objections). - Council Member Miller’s motion to add additional videographers, photographers, and graphic artists was also placed into executive session. - The administration committed to: resolving closed captioning within two weeks; improving Zoom and committee transition logistics; holding bi-weekly planning meetings with council offices; providing a written budget breakdown; and exploring AI integration and educational programming.

The Detroit City Council held a budget hearing on March 13, 2026, for the Public Lighting Authority (PLA) and Public Lighting Department (PLD). Officials presented their budgets and operational updates, and council members questioned them on mid-block lighting, alley lighting, solar energy, local procurement, artificial intelligence, and employment opportunities. The hearing also included public comments on BZA transcript fees and clean energy. Public Comments & Testimony - Several callers criticized the BZA's policy of charging for transcripts (estimates of $5,000 or $750 per page), arguing it creates a paywall and violates the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act which requires transcripts to be filed with the clerk and available to the public. - One caller advocated for clean energy generation and suggested the city explore options like hydrogen and solar, and questioned the necessity of the PLA and PLD. - Betty A. Varner, president of the Soda Els War Black Association, requested budget allocations to reduce the $1,500 land use hearing fee for black clubs and to fund corridor revitalization. Discussion Items - Budget Presentation: John Primeck (PLD) reported PLD's total budget of $18.5 million, including $10.5 million transferred to PLA, $6.5 million for electricity, $900,000 for the Miss Dig staking program, and $940,000 for salvage and make-safe programs. PLD maintains over 500 miles of conduit, generates $1.2 million from fiber rental, and earned $2.4 million from copper salvage in the prior year. - PLA Operations: Bo Taylor (PLA) explained the PLA's $10.5 million budget is based on a 2014 interlocal agreement. PLA has replaced all first-generation lights and thousands of poles, achieving 99% operability. Repairs average five days for simple outages and two weeks for major repairs. A bond refinancing provided $10 million upfront and $1.4 million in annual savings to fund the upcoming mid-block lighting program. - Mid-Block Lighting: Director Donnie Johnson clarified that the $1 million increase in PLA's operating contribution is specifically for mid-block lighting, enabling bond savings to be directed to the program. Taylor stated the new lighting plan will be heavily informed by community input in each council district. - Alley Lighting: Multiple council members (Miller, McCampbell, Santiago Romero, Callaway) emphasized the need for alley lights, noting residents who enter homes through alleys and those paying out-of-pocket for lights. Taylor said the policy will change, and alley lights will be addressed after the mid-block program, with a focus on resident input. Councilmember Miller called for immediate action and possible reimbursement for neighborhoods that have been paying for alley lights for years. - Solar and Alternative Energy: Councilmembers Benson and Callaway pressed for pilot solar projects. Taylor expressed caution due to storage and reliability issues at scale but left the door open for small pilots. Councilmember Benson suggested a pilot in District 3. A public caller urged the city to explore clean energy generation. - AI and Smart Lighting: Councilmember Young detailed potential savings from AI (predictive maintenance, adaptive dimming, optimized routing) including $1.3–$3.2 million in annual savings. Taylor said PLA is evaluating software upgrades with AI integration and encourages staff use of AI for efficiency. - Local Procurement: Councilmember Benson raised concerns that local lighting suppliers were excluded from bidding. Taylor defended the competitive process based on specification, but committed to better communication and exploring smaller opportunities. A motion was passed to encourage PLA to increase local supplier involvement. - Mistersky Power Plant: Taylor confirmed the plant is being marketed for sale as-is due to high asbestos removal costs (estimated $2.4 million). Interest exists for potential truck recharging uses near the new bridge. - Employment: Councilmember Waters asked about Detroiters' employment in lighting. Taylor described the PLANT program (Public Lighting Authority Nurturing Talent), which provides groundman jobs and apprenticeship preparation, leading to wages up to $200,000 per year. He offered to participate in the council's skilled trade task force. - Jefferson Avenue Lighting: Councilmember Johnson reported 80–90% of lights out on the south side of Jefferson Avenue near Belle Isle. Taylor promised to prioritize the issue and provide written updates. - Salary Inquiry: Councilmember Callaway asked for Bo Taylor's salary. Taylor stated it is public information but did not recall the exact figure; he offered to provide a copy of his contract in writing. Key Outcomes - Motion by Member Benson, seconded by Member McCampbell, to include in the closing resolution a strong encouragement for PLA to get more local suppliers involved in the hardware process of new lighting. Approved. - Motion by Member McCampbell, seconded by Member Callaway, to move to executive session regarding alley lights and solar. Approved. - PLA committed to addressing alley lighting after mid-block program with resident engagement, and to providing written responses on Jefferson Avenue lighting and salary information. - The next full public hearing for the budget was announced for March 30, 2026.

On March 12, 2026, the Detroit City Council Committee of the Whole heard a presentation from Katie Trudeau, President and CEO of the Eastern Market Corporation, on the market's operations, capital projects, programs, and budget request. The meeting included discussion of the market's $300,000 general operating support request, an urban farmer grant program, and the sale of 21 properties in the district. Council members posed questions on food access, infrastructure, and community partnerships, and made two motions that were approved. Presentation Overview Katie Trudeau reported that Eastern Market is the largest public market in the U.S., covering 43 acres and drawing over 2 million visitors annually. Key capital projects include: - Shed 7 Wholesale Distribution Center: A 40,000-square-foot cold-chain compliant facility under construction, funded by a $12 million state grant, $8 million from other sources, and expected to open in June 2026. It will provide dedicated dock and refrigeration space for mid-sized Michigan farmers and Detroit urban farmers. - Shed 4 Redevelopment: A $15–$60 million project to add year-round vending, kitchen space, and a nutrition education center. About $5.25 million has been raised. Programmatic updates included: - A food box program (LFPA) that purchased produce from local growers, with 60% from Detroit black-owned farms. The federal funding has been cut, but Trudeau estimates the program can continue with about $100,000 annually. - An urban farmer grant program: 80 applications received; $50,000 grants awarded to three farm cooperatives and $15,000 grants to six individual farms, totaling $240,000. The first payments were released in February 2026. - A mobile market program expanding to all 43 municipalities in Wayne County, with a refrigerated truck and ability to accept SNAP/EBT. - Food is medicine partnerships with four insurance companies (Aetna, Molina, and others) to provide vouchers for fresh produce. Trudeau also noted that the 21 properties owned by FIRM Real Estate are being sold; 10 have interested buyers, one has sold, and the market is prioritizing tenants and food-based businesses. Public Comments - Betty A. Varner (President, DeSolda Els World Black Association) requested funding to help community organizations pay land use hearing fees and support corridor improvements. - Owner Papa criticized the city council's decision to allow chickens citywide, stating they attract predators and pose health risks. - Kahara Amad praised the Eastern Market presentation and urged more involvement with children, including school partnerships and teaching business operations. - William M. Davis suggested the Building Authority should offer land to city workers and retirees at the same rates as the Land Bank, and proposed a smaller Eastern Market on the west side to reduce congestion. - iPhone (caller) advocated for eating clubs near urban farms to reduce food waste, and recommended using stormwater for urban farms instead of city water. Discussion Items Council members asked questions and raised concerns: - Councilmember Miller (new board member) asked about the food box program shortfall and the Black Bottom Archives museum build-out cost (estimated at $500,000). She moved to move the $300,000 operating support request to executive session; the motion passed unanimously. - Councilmember Callaway asked about partnerships with community fridges, AI logistics hub feasibility, and preserving the character of Eastern Market during the FIRM property sales. She moved to add $240,000 to the budget for the urban farmer grant program; the motion passed. - Councilmember Tate questioned the impact of Eastern Market's mobile market program on local farmers markets, noting declining sales at Grandmont Rosedale. Trudeau explained shifting to providing free produce to draw customers. - Councilmember Santiago Romero asked about partnerships with commercial grocery stores and how Eastern Market can help connect real estate to food. Trudeau noted relationships with family-owned grocers and the role of Shed 7 in providing wholesale access. - Councilmember Benson thanked Trudeau and had no questions. - Councilmember Johnson asked about water access for urban farms. Trudeau said the grant program could not fund water hookups, but the Office of Sustainability has other resources. She agreed to lean into the conversation. - Councilmember McCampbell (new board member) asked about square footage for urban farmers at Shed 7 (estimated 5,000 sq ft) and requested a list of District 7 markets. She also asked about monthly mobile market drop-ins for neighborhood associations. - Councilmember Waters asked about staffing (five open positions, difficulty filling some) and revenue from evening events (private facility rentals important for operating budget). - Councilmember Young asked about the AI logistics hub proposal; Trudeau said she would look into it, especially for Shed 7. Key Outcomes - Motion 1: Councilmember Miller moved to move the $300,000 general operating support request to the executive session; the motion passed unanimously. - Motion 2: Councilmember Callaway moved to add $240,000 to the budget for the urban farmer grant program; the motion passed. - Trudeau committed to following up on water access, farm locations, Black Bottom Archives funding, and District 7 market details. - The committee recessed at the end of the morning session, to reconvene at 2:00 PM for public hearings.

The Detroit City Council held the second day of budget hearings for the FY 2026-27 budget, focusing on the Detroit Building Authority (DBA). DBA Director Tyrone Clifton and his team presented an overview of the agency's operations, capital projects, and property management responsibilities, followed by questions from council members. Discussion Items - DBA Overview & Role: Director Clifton explained the DBA's statutory functions (acquiring, equipping, owning, improving, operating, and maintaining city facilities) and its role in supporting the mayor's economic empowerment initiative through equitable access to publicly owned property and bidding opportunities. The DBA manages the city's surplus property inventory, which includes approximately 7,400 properties (600 buildings and 6,700 vacant lots). - Major Capital Projects: - Coolidge Bus Center ($120M) is 90% complete and receiving certificate of occupancy. - Detroit Public Safety Headquarters adaptive reuse ($55M from a $100M public safety bond). - Relocation of the Michigan & 19 service yard to Russell Ferry (first phase approved at $17M) to accommodate development around the train station and soccer stadium. - Property Disposition: The DBA processes applications for city-owned surplus properties. Sales are at fair market value, determined by brokers, with credits offered for nonprofits, adjacency, or employment creation. Director Clifton noted that the DBA does not discount prices automatically for city employees. - Challenges: Council members raised concerns about speculative developers using new LLCs to avoid blight tickets (Member Callaway), high renovation costs for vacant apartment buildings and schools (Members Johnson, McCampbell), and confusion between DBA and Detroit Land Bank property pricing (Member Santiago Romero). Director Clifton acknowledged the need for better public education on processes. - Specific Projects: - Skillman Branch Library: Renovations (windows and roof) are still in development; an RFQ is expected within six weeks. - EV charging station at Coleman A. Young Municipal Center: DTE is in the MDOT permit process; chargers expected by late spring 2027. - Considine Recreation Center: Repairs fall under General Services Department; reactivating the pool would require a larger capital project. - AI Implementation: Councilmember Pro Tempore Young suggested implementing AI for predictive maintenance, energy efficiency, and fraud reduction, citing potential annual savings of $35–55 million. Director Clifton stated there are no current plans for AI. - Contract with Summit Commercial: Councilmember McCampbell raised concerns about responsiveness; Director Clifton noted regular team meetings and direct communication with applicants. Key Outcomes - Councilmember McCampbell made a motion to move discussion of marketed properties and broker relationships into executive session. The motion was approved with no objections. - The DBA will provide additional written responses to outstanding council questions, including a list of successful small projects with discounted pricing and information on publicly owned apartment complexes.

The Neighborhood Community Served Standing Committee met on March 12, 2026, with Council President Pro Tempore Common A. Young II presiding and Councilmembers Scott Benson and Reneta Miller present. The meeting covered approval of minutes, public comments, several event permit requests, a confidential legal memorandum, and member reports. Public Comments & Testimony - Betty A. Varner, President of the Soda Elsewhere Block Association, spoke about the MI Choice Waiver Program for seniors and disabled individuals not eligible for Medicaid, urging the council to advocate for land use hearing fee relief and for equitable funding to improve business corridors, specifically her Mack Avenue corridor. - Owner Papa (caller) thanked Councilwoman Miller for her representation, criticized the Drew Center (a detention center), and expressed frustration that her tax dollars are not returning to her community. She threatened to file a federal lawsuit against the council if federal dollars are not distributed fairly. - A third caller, Andrew, lowered their hand and did not speak. Discussion Items - Approval of Minutes: The committee initially approved the minutes. Councilmember Benson then made a motion to reconsider the vote, citing a missing modification regarding a $4 million budget amendment to the Forestry Department. The motion was granted, and the minutes were modified to include that amendment. Later, Benson requested to see the modified minutes before final approval, so the minutes will be brought back for approval at the next committee meeting. - New Business – Mayor’s Office Line Items: - 6.1 – Washington Entertainment: Request to hold the RIVS RB Music Festival on August 7–9, 2026 at Hart Plaza (with setup August 6 and teardown August 10). Moved to formal session with recommendation for approval. - 6.2 – Black Girl Conglomerates: Request to hold the Black Girl Picnic on August 15, 2026 at Roosevelt Park (setup August 15, teardown same day). Moved to formal session with recommendation for approval. - 6.3 – March of Dimes: Request to hold March for Babies on June 13, 2026 at Roosevelt Park (setup June 12, teardown June 13). Moved to formal session with recommendation for approval. - 6.4 – Michigan Humane: Request to hold the Michigan Humane Tailgate Run Walk Adopt on May 9, 2026 at Roosevelt Park, Joe Louis Greenway, and Ralph C. Wilson Centennial Park (setup May 7–8, teardown May 9–10). Moved to formal session with recommendation for approval. - Law Department – Line 6.5: A confidential memorandum dated February 26, 2026 regarding Detroit Public Library bond issuance authority was presented. Councilmember Benson noted the library’s ability to unilaterally issue bond debt for capital improvements was the subject of the opinion, and that a resolution to remove privilege had been submitted and would appear on formal session Tuesday. The item was received and filed. - Member Reports: Councilwoman Miller announced a Women’s History Month event, “Unapologetic Leadership,” on March 20, 2026 from 12–3 p.m. in the City Council Auditorium, co-hosted with Councilmember Mary Waters. Key Outcomes - The committee voted to approve the minutes with a modification (adding the $4 million Forestry Department budget amendment), but later decided to defer final approval to the next meeting after the modified minutes are reviewed. - Line items 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, and 6.4 were all moved to the formal session of City Council with a recommendation for approval. - Line item 6.5 was received and filed without further action.

The Detroit City Council Committee of the Whole met in an abbreviated session on the morning of March 12, 2026, to address pending legislation and hear public comment. The meeting was shortened due to budget hearings scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. Following roll call and approval of the minutes, the committee heard public comment from residents on topics including housing, zoning, community benefits, and community events. The committee then acted on a series of unfinished and new business items, including housing choice vouchers, downzoning of a commercial corridor, proposed ordinance for the Fruit Pumping Station, and property sales. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Foster (in person): Commended the council for a four-year period without indictments, urging proactive measures to preserve assets for future generations. - William M. Davis: Strongly supported the housing choice voucher home ownership option (5.1), stating that homeownership in the city has declined by nearly 25% since his earlier years; also called for stricter enforcement of community benefits agreements and criticized tax policies affecting homeowners. - Cunningham: Announced a transit advocacy trip to Lansing, seeking support for improved public transit; thanked council for their engagement. - Owner Papa: Expressed agreement with Davis on 5.1; asked about funding sources and spending levels for the voucher program; voiced concerns about the community benefits agreement for Future of Health, particularly regarding proposed behavioral health services. - Caller ending in 905: Appreciated updates on the community benefits ordinance and development, but urged transparent monitoring and avoidance of past shortcomings (e.g., Herman Keefer). - Unidentified caller: Raised allegations about the handling of a homicide case, claiming evidence was altered. - Betty A. Varner: Announced a health fair scheduled for April 18, 2026, at Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, offering free screenings. Discussion Items - 5.1 – Housing Choice Voucher Home Ownership: Councilmember Letitia Johnson explained that the resolution advocates enabling voucher recipients to use funds for mortgage payments. The committee opted to bring the item back in one week. - 5.2 – NAP Suit Request (Leland House Apartments): Brought back to the end of the agenda; later extended by one week. - 5.3 & 6.1 – Downzoning of 10631 Whittier (Cover Girl Strip Club): Mr. Bowser of the City Planning Commission detailed the property's legal non-conforming adult-use status and advised that downzoning the corridor would not affect that status. Chair Johnson stated the community was driving the process and requested a list of nonconforming addresses by district. The committee voted to receive and file both items. - 5.4 – Hans Farms LLC Purchase Agreement: Brought back in one week. - 5.5 – M4 Green Buffer Text Amendment: Brought back in two weeks. - 5.6 – CRIO Community Benefits Ordinance Annual Report (Future of Health): Brought back in one week for further discussion. - 6.2 – Proposed Ordinance Amendment (Fruit Pumping Station): Chair Johnson outlined community requests for infrastructure improvements, including funding for basement backup protection and pipe upsizing. She expressed that some questions remain unanswered but signaled intent to proceed; the committee sent the ordinance to formal introduction with a public hearing. - 6.3 – Corrective Resolution for Property Sale (563 Harper Ave): Sent to formal with a recommendation to approve. - 6.4 – Resolution re Michigan House Bills 5660 & 5661: Referred to Legislative Policy Division (LPD) and brought back in two weeks. Member Reports - Councilmember Gabriela Santiago Romero reminded residents about Narcan training at Little Caesars Arena on Saturday, March 15, 2026. - Councilmember Letitia Johnson (District 4) announced a community meeting on Monday, March 16, 2026, at the Shepherd (1265 Park View St) focusing on tenant rights and landlord responsibilities. Key Outcomes - Received and filed: Line items 5.3 and 6.1 (downzoning report). - Sent to formal with recommendation to approve: Line items 6.2 (ordinance) and 6.3 (property sale). - Referred to LPD and brought back in two weeks: Line item 6.4. - Brought back in one week: Line items 5.1, 5.2, 5.4, 5.6. - Brought back in two weeks: Line item 5.5.

On March 12, 2026, the Detroit City Council's Budget, Finance, and Audit Standing Committee held a budget hearing for the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. The museum presented a funding request of $3.3 million for operating support and $7.7 million for capital improvements, with $3.5 million of the capital request deemed critical. The hearing included presentations by museum leadership, discussion of financial challenges, and a motion to forward requests to executive session. Museum Presentation & Financial Request - Neil Barkley, museum representative, requested $3.3 million in operating support and $7.7 million in capital support, noting $3.5 million of the capital ask is critical. - Jeff Anderson, Executive Vice President, detailed the capital request as the final phase (phase seven) of a mechanical systems replacement project, which began over three and a half years ago. Completion is expected by June 30, 2027 (FY 27). - The museum requested continued funding to maintain operations and complete capital improvements, citing a need to raise $9 million over the next 12 months from other sources. Financial Challenges & Context - After seven years of directed state grants ($500,000 annually), the grant was not included in the governor's most recent budget request. - In 2024, the museum expected transitional state funding, but it was eliminated at the start of the fiscal year (July 1), costing $4-6 million in operating and capital support. - Federal funding challenges: The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) program for Black museums was eliminated; NEA and NEH grants must be rewritten without race-specific targeting, making applications difficult for African American museums. - A millage proposal (0.2 mills over 10 years, renewable for 10 years) passed both legislative houses in 2024 but was stalled by a typographical error. The House refused to fix it, leading to litigation that reached the Michigan Supreme Court. The millage must be certified by mid-May 2026 to appear on the November ballot; otherwise, the next opportunity is 2028. - Without transitional funding in FY 2025 (and uncertain for FY 2026), the museum may not maintain current operations through 2028. Councilmember Discussion & Positions - Councilmember Scott Benson (also a museum trustee) strongly supported the request, praising the museum's leadership for transforming it from a "hand-to-mouth institution" into a top-10 national cultural treasure. He made a motion to include the $7.78 million capital request into executive session. - Councilmember Angela Whitfield Callaway asked about partnerships with HBCU art collections and pop-up exhibits, suggesting collaborations with Spelman College and outdoor installations similar to the DIA's Inside Out program. She invited the museum to participate in a street unveiling for Viola Liuzzo on April 11. - Councilmember Letitia Johnson asked about capital budget availability. Director Donnie Johnson confirmed no capital funds were programmed for FY 2027 due to limited resources. - Councilmember Denzel McCampbell praised the museum's social media campaign (1.2 million views), noting its success in attracting younger demographics. He discussed challenges with federal funding and encouraged the museum to explore consulting or monetization. - Councilmember Gabriela Santiago Romero supported the budget move and suggested the museum could monetize its social media success or charge consulting fees for its expertise. - Councilmember Mary Waters inquired about staffing (no current vacancies, expanding in development/marketing), membership demographics (historically seniors, but younger via social media), and the GM Theater's ongoing financial commitment from GM. - Council President Pro Tempore Coleman A. Young II emphasized the museum's critical role in preserving Black history, especially amid attacks on African American contributions. He discussed the need to educate about the slave trade, including the European slave trade's coercive nature and its connections to modern issues. - Councilmember Renata Miller highlighted the importance of memberships (starting at $50) and urged support as a city-owned asset. She noted the museum allowed her inaugural event and that it attracts diverse visitors. Key Outcomes - Councilmember Scott Benson made a motion to forward the $7.78 million capital request to executive session; it carried without objection. - Councilmember Coleman A. Young II made a motion to forward the $3.3 million operating request (the delta above what is already budgeted) to executive session; it carried without objection after a clarifying question from Councilmember Johnson. - The requests will be discussed further in executive session for potential inclusion in the city budget.

The Detroit Land Bank Authority (DLBA) presented its fiscal year 2027 budget to the Detroit City Council, detailing a significant reduction in inventory, a projected revenue shortfall, and the need to pivot from structure sales to vacant land management. CEO Tammy Daniels and CFO Reginald Scott led the presentation, highlighting progress on blight reduction and new programming, while facing sharp questions from council members on the nuisance abatement program, land sales transparency, and the long-term financial sustainability of the organization. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were discussed. Public Comments & Testimony - Ruben James Crowley Jr. (in-person) – Alleged election fraud and expressed concern about University of Michigan graduates holding key financial positions in the city, including the DLBA CEO. - Betty A. Varner (online) – President of DeSoda Elsewhere Black Association; requested budget allocations to help community organizations pay BC land use hearing fees, and funding for corridors including Finley Avenue. - Darren McCleskey (online) – Criticized the city's approach to vacant properties, urged prosecution of property crimes, and mentioned a class action lawsuit against the land bank regarding surplus proceeds (case 25-CV-10307). - Dante Smith (online) – Alleged improper zoning by Crown Enterprises and accused several council members of taking campaign contributions from the Maroon family. - Carolyn Hughes (online) – Called the nuisance abatement program a “farce, a lie and illegal,” citing a letter from the Attorney General stating the program should only apply to surplus property, not occupied homes. - Betty (online) – Criticized the one-minute public comment limit, noted the city holds land for development and favors developers over residents, and stated the land bank has sold commercial structures. - William M. Davis (online) – Opposed nuisance abatements on properties where people live, suggested the city could save money by divesting side lots, and encouraged support for the Charles H. Wright Museum. - iPhone (online) – Did not speak; comment was not provided. Discussion Items DLBA Overview & Accomplishments - CEO Tammy Daniels reported that since 2014, the DLBA has sold over 13,000 vacant homes and over 30,000 vacant lots, with 88.6% of lot sales to Detroiters. In 2024, 82% of buyers were Detroit residents. A 2025 Griswold Consulting Group study found that DLBA programs have generated more than $2 billion in increased home values. - Inventory now stands at approximately 59,000 parcels: about 57,000 vacant lots and just over 2,000 with structures. Of those structures, 283 are queued for demolition, 587 are occupied, 498 are sold awaiting closing, and 750 remain in the sales pipeline—down from a peak of over 40,000 structures. - Structure sales revenue has declined from $15.8 million (2021) to a projected $5.6 million for FY26. The DLBA anticipates selling roughly 540 structures in the current calendar year and expects further declines in FY27. - CFO Reginald Scott reported that the fund balance as of June 30, 2025, was $64.2 million, of which $13.2 million represents inventory (book value). Cash and cash equivalents were roughly $51 million. Of that, $20 million has been board-committed to projects (primarily the Longview redevelopment and the Finish Line program), and $14.5 million is assigned for blight elimination grants, new programming, and operational support. The spendable fund balance available for FY27 operations is about $16.5 million. - Scott projected FY27 revenue of $16 million ($6 million from structure sales, $4 million from vacant land sales, $6 million from 550 statutory revenues) against expenditures of $25.8 million, resulting in a shortfall of $9.8 million, to be covered by the fund balance. He warned that without a general fund subsidy, the spendable fund balance would drop to $6.5–$7 million by the end of FY27, necessitating a subsidy request for FY28. - Risks to the budget include: declining 550 statutory revenue, continued decline in structure sales revenue, and uncertainty about the pace of revenue from new vacant land programs. Nuisance Abatement Program - Councilmember Mary Waters questioned the number of properties taken under the nuisance abatement program. General Counsel Gabriel Guerrero stated that through the end of calendar year 2025, the Third Circuit Court had entered judgments granting title to the land bank for approximately 2,000 properties. Waters expressed strong opposition, stating, “I will never ever be able to understand us giving you that kind of power to go in and take private property from our residents.” She announced she is exploring options to reverse the program. - Councilmember Latisha Johnson clarified that the nuisance abatement program is focused on vacant properties, not occupied ones, and emphasized that vacant structures devalue neighborhoods and often require city-funded demolition. - Councilmember Mary Waters made two motions: (1) to place the nuisance abatement program into executive session (passed without objection); (2) to direct LPD to report on how the land bank originally obtained authority to create the nuisance abatement program (passed without objection). Land Sales & Community Outreach - Councilmember James Tate questioned notification processes for residents wanting to buy side lots. CEO Daniels outlined new initiatives: SMS messaging, side lot fairs, monthly community coffee hours, and the “Talking with Tammy” Instagram series. She also announced a new AI chatbot (ARAI) that will launch in early April; council and their teams were asked to test it between March 23–30. - Councilmember Scott Benson asked about the Brightmoor neighborhood: 800 vacant lots were recently released. DLBA staff (Robbie Lynn) said a summary of sales (including how many went to Detroiters) would be provided, and that all lots offered were through side lot/neighborhood lot programs (sold only to local homeowners). A temporary moratorium on application-based sales has expired. Longview Multifamily Project - CEO Daniels confirmed that $15 million of the committed fund balance is earmarked for rehabbing two adjacent apartment buildings (each 20 units, goal to combine into 30 units larger for families). The DLBA pursued blight elimination grants for this project and plans to issue an RFP for a nonprofit partner to operate affordable/transitional housing. CFO Scott noted that if a better use of funds arises, the board could reallocate. - Councilmember Mary Sheffield questioned how properties are chosen for such investment; Daniels said it was based on the opportunity to activate DLBA inventory and pursue blight elimination dollars. Reorganization & Future Model - Councilmember Gabriela Santiago-Romero asked about potential consolidation with the Detroit Building Authority (DBA) due to public confusion. LPD director (Mr. Whitaker) explained the land bank has unique authority to clear titles on residential properties, which the DBA lacks. Santiago-Romero urged revisiting these agreements. - Council President Pro Tem James Tate requested a five-year plan for land and property sales from the DLBA, HRD, or PDD. The motion was seconded by Councilmember McCampbell and Councilmember Santiago-Romero and passed without objection. - City Council Chief Auditor (Mr. Corley) commented that the DLBA’s current financial model is unsustainable, noting only about one year of operating cash remains. He urged council to seek from the administration a clear proposal of the land bank’s future role and associated costs, implying services may need to shift to city departments requiring additional funding. Key Outcomes - Motion passed: To place the nuisance abatement program into executive session (unanimous). - Motion passed: To direct LPD to report on how the land bank originally obtained authority to create the nuisance abatement program (unanimous). - Motion passed: To request a five-year plan for land and property sales from DLBA, HRD, or PDD (unanimous). - No general fund subsidy approved for FY27; DLBA will use its fund balance to cover the $9.8 million shortfall, but CFO Scott warned a subsidy will be needed for FY28. - Next steps: DLBA will provide written responses to pending memos, including Brightmoor lot sales data, district-level inventory lists, and details on Longview development plans. Council will test the ARAI chatbot between March 23–30. - Budget hearings continue: March 13, 2026, at 10 a.m. for Board of Zoning Appeals, Public Lighting Department, Media Services, Detroit Water and Sewerage, and Detroit Public Library.

The Detroit City Council held a budget hearing for the Detroit Historical Society (DHS) on March 11, 2026. DHS President/CEO Ilana Rue, CFO Steve Zerio, and Education Director Rodney presented the society's fiscal year 2027 budget request, highlighting recent achievements, ongoing challenges, and critical capital needs. The society requested $2 million in operating support (continuation of the previous year's allocation) and $1.5 million in new capital dollars to protect city-owned buildings and the collection. Public Comments & Testimony - Betty A. Varner (President, Soda Ellsworth Black Association) advocated for walk-in showers for seniors and people with disabilities, expressing frustration that a list she helped create three years ago was not notified when such showers were added to a home repair program. - A concerned citizen complained that a senior citizen shopping at Myers was told she could not bring her grocery cart into the Jason Hargrove Transit Center while waiting for the bus, and asked for a resolution. - William M. Davis criticized the Detroit Port Authority for underutilization compared to other cities, and also faulted the DHS presentation for lacking a slideshow, urging the society to seek more state funding, including for the museum on Belle Isle. - James V Frog Tate Jr. (Black Dag Root) claimed a woman did not shoot herself and referenced DPD case 20-11112, calling on Councilmember Callaway. - An unnamed caller appreciated Callaway's promotion suggestions, offered to share historical papers from his building dating to 1967, and discussed water runoff issues. - Carolyn Hughes asked whether the Port Authority partners with ROTC and suggested DHS should have a direct relationship with DPSCD and create programming for District 7 since it has no recreation center. - Kamu Jawara (a DHS member) suggested more adult field trips to exhibits, pop-up membership sales at festivals and sporting events, and tagging memberships to large-scale events like Movement Festival. Discussion Items - Presentation by Detroit Historical Society: Ilana Rue reviewed the past year's accomplishments: over 20 new or refreshed exhibits, 1,660 new artifacts added to the collection, membership growth of 32% (over 5,000 paid active members, the best in 11 years), and education outreach reaching 15,000 students from DPSCD and surrounding districts. The society operates two museums and the Collections Resource Center (CRC) with 47 full-time and 31 part-time staff; 24 are Detroit residents. Rue noted the stalled millage (bills passed both chambers but trapped in a lawsuit between the House and Senate) and loss of $350,000 in federal funding from IMLS and NEH. Without a millage, the society may face workforce reductions. Steve Zerio detailed top capital priorities: renovating the carriage house design studio (asbestos abatement, HVAC, lighting), updating the Detroit 67 exhibit (electronics failing after 10+ years), building a sensory quiet room, making employee bathrooms ADA-compliant, and general building repairs (HVAC, elevators, security). Future needs include generator for Dawson Museum and electrical upgrades at CRC. - Councilmember Miller: Expressed excitement to join the board in May, apologized for the millage delay due to a typo, and offered to advocate in Lansing. She emphasized raising awareness among Detroit adults. - Councilmember Santiago Romero: Asked about collaboration with the Historic Designation Advisory Board and suggested a joint event. Rue agreed to explore. Romero also inquired about after-school and summer youth programming; Rodney noted Camp Detroit (week-long for grades 3-5) but financial and transportation barriers. Romero proposed a closing resolution for youth programming with the museums. - Councilmember Johnson: Praised school outreach and asked about placing artifacts in schools. Rue offered to pilot in District 4. Johnson also asked about the $250,000 deficit; Rue explained it is covered by reserves and an unexpected bequest, and the board approved a deficit budget while working toward the millage. Johnson motioned (passed) for tracking Detroit employment. - Councilmember McCampbell: Suggested deeper partnerships with places like Rouge Park for pop-up history and asked about Detroit resident employment (24 of 78 staff). He urged increasing that number, especially for neurodivergent students via schools like Drew Transitional. Motion passed to track and increase Detroit employment. - Councilmember Young: Asked about AI implementation; Rue said it is a future consideration post-millage and requested more info. Young also asked about partnerships with Fort Wayne and Native American history. A motion passed to place Fort Wayne relationship in executive session. (Motion made by Waters, via Young.) - Councilmember Benson: Noted the city's 4x increase in investment since FY2019 and stressed the importance of the millage to sustain the institution. He made two motions, both passed: encourage placement of DHS artifacts in city council offices, and reinforce council's support for the regional millage. - Councilmember Callaway: Reflected on a tour of the CRC and contrasted the Henry Ford Museum's popularity with DHS's lower foot traffic. She suggested better promotion, interactive displays (e.g., a car on a revolving platform outside), and fixing a mislabeled photo of Marvin Gaye. She also raised concern about a Christopher Columbus bust that was moved to a banquet hall in Livonia during COVID without a clear agreement, and asked GSD about its return. She offered to share ideas and connections with Spelman College arts center. Key Outcomes - Motion passed (Santiago Romero) to create a closing resolution for youth programming with the museums. - Motion passed (McCampbell) to track and increase Detroit resident employment at DHS. - Motion passed (Young) to build relationship between DHS and city media services department for archiving digital records. - Motion passed (Waters, via Young) to include Fort Wayne relationship in executive session. - Motion passed (Benson) to encourage placement of DHS artifacts in council offices and the 13th floor. - Motion passed (Benson) to reinforce city council's support for the regional cultural millage. - Motion passed (Miller) to move the $3.2 million funding request (operating and capital) to executive session for further deliberation. The council recessed at approximately 1:30 PM and reconvened at 2:30 PM for continued discussion.