Public Meetings - Detroit, Michigan

The Committee of the Whole, chaired by Councilmember Angela Whitfield Callaway, convened on October 7, 2026, to consider appointments, public comments, legal updates, and numerous agenda items. The meeting opened with an invocation and remarks on global student protests and Detroit's count day for school funding. Public Comments & Testimony - Eden Bloom (Detroit People's Platform) presented survey results on proposed data center moratorium: 66% of over 500 respondents oppose data centers in neighborhoods, 74% oppose local tax breaks for data centers, 71% said promises of job creation do not change their views, and 63% support a moratorium. The chair thanked Mr. Bloom and noted similar tensions in Memphis. - Virtual callers raised issues including: support for the moratorium (Jadante Smith), landlord compliance and retaliation (caller Shea), voting encouragement (Will M. Davis), CapTel phones for hearing loss (Betty A. Varner), and concerns about data centers and surveillance (Sydney Dara). Appointments (Interviews) - Naya Marshall – appointed to the Economic Development Corporation. Marshall, a lifelong Detroiter and small business owner (Ivy Kitchen & Cocktails, Antidote Detroit), expressed commitment to community representation. Motion to approve carried without objection. - Olga Stella – appointed to the Rivertown Business Improvement Zone. Stella is Chief of Economic Development and Workforce for Mayor Sheffield and a longtime Rivertown resident. Motion to approve carried without objection. - Marcus Twyman – reappointed to the Property Assessment Board of Review. Twyman highlighted his role as a “buffer” between taxpayers and the assessor’s office. Motion to approve carried without objection. - Lewis Moore – reappointed as District 7 appointee and board chair to the Property Assessment Board of Review. Moore emphasized community engagement. Supported by Councilmember McCampbell. Motion to approve carried without objection. Discussion Items - Munoz Realty Compliance Report – Jason Harrison (Law Department) provided an update on the May 20, 2026 court order requiring Gaston Munoz to abate 10 properties per month. Compliance has been dismal: May 2, June 4, July 16, August 19, September 14, but many were disputed as not owned/managed by Munoz. He has paid no blight tickets, water bills, or BSEED fees. A motion for show cause was heard that morning; Judge Farhat ordered rents held in trust, required an accounting, and warned that a receiver will be appointed if compliance does not improve by December 8, 2026. A comprehensive data dashboard is being developed by the Office of Optimization and Implementation to track compliance across departments. - Community Advisory Councils (CAC) Ordinance – Councilmember McCampbell clarified that his original memo sought only guidelines for CACs, not giving City Council power to create rules. He opposed the ordinance change. The item was brought back TBD. - Data Center Moratorium (Item 10.21) – The item was referred to the Planning and Economic Development (PED) committee per LPD recommendation. - Other Memoranda and Contracts – Several contract amendments and settlements were considered, including a time extension for Floyd E. Allen & Associates (no increase, 35% of recovered amounts), and a $2 million contract increase for Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation (held for two weeks pending a full report on job placement outcomes). Key Outcomes - The four appointments (Marshall, Stella, Twyman, Moore) were formally recommended for approval to City Council. - The Munoz matter will return December 8, 2026, with a possible receiver appointed; a compliance dashboard is expected in two months. - The data center moratorium item (10.21) was sent to the PED committee. - The CAC ordinance amendment (9.5) and several memoranda and contract items were held for two weeks or brought back on specific dates. - The Floyd E. Allen contract extension was approved (line 9.1). - Settlement items for various lawsuits (e.g., Sherry Ware, Mohamed Salim, Nicole Copeland, etc.) were approved, with two police representation items (10.14, 10.15) held for two weeks. - The voter assist terminals report (10.22) was received and filed. - Meeting adjourned with announcements about community events and Count Day celebrations.

The Detroit City Council convened on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 10:00 AM (transcript start time) with 8 members present (Councilmember Benson absent). The meeting included a Spirit of Detroit Award presentation to Curtis Sylvester, extensive public comment on multiple topics, and consideration of numerous agenda items including appointments, zoning, Kratom regulation, and transit services. Consent Calendar - Approval of the journal of the September 22, 2026 formal session. - Routine reports from city departments were referred to standing committees (Budget Finance & Audit: 4 reports; Internal Operations: 12 reports; Public Health & Safety: 20 reports; Neighborhood & Community Services: 11 reports; Planning & Economic Development: 7 reports). - Numerous resolutions were approved without objection, including items 15.1, 15.2, 16.1–16.2, 16.4–16.15, 17.1–17.2, 18.7, 20.1–20.5, 20.7–20.10, 20.11, 31.1–31.4, 31.5–31.7, and 24.2. Public Comments & Testimony - Transit Vouchers (Paratransit): Stephen Hanshu, Anthony Sawyer, Beatrice Luckett, Louise Johnson, Sabrina Rice, Corey Collins, Dwayne Rudd, and Richard Clay (President, Detroit Advocates of the Blind) spoke in favor of a voucher program to allow paratransit users to use Lyft/Uber/taxis for trips outside Detroit. They noted that the current same-day service uses up 100 rides by 9 AM, and the former New Freedom program was never refunded. The proposal would be at no cost to the city, using existing trip subsidies. Several speakers described difficulty accessing medical appointments and social activities across 8 Mile. - Kratom Regulation: Many speakers (Danielle Kelly, Jacob Smith, Brian Bitnarski, Brittany Septon, Amanda Barnes, Melody Wolfe, Beth, and numerous callers) urged the council to oppose a total ban on natural Kratom leaf (House Bill 5537) and instead support Senate Bill 1181, which would regulate synthetic compounds (7-OH), require labeling, age limits, and lab testing. Personal stories highlighted relief from chronic pain, opioid addiction recovery, and improved quality of life. A few speakers supported a ban, citing a son's death from natural Kratom. - Police Commission Appointment: Jacob Smith and Sarah Hobel (National Lawyers Guild) opposed the appointment of Harvey Santana to the Board of Police Commissioners, arguing his law enforcement ties undermine civilian oversight and the legacy of Coleman Young. - Data Center Moratorium: Ray Smith and Karen Hammer urged the council to pause permits for AI data centers, citing noise, water use, electricity grid impacts, and lack of community benefit agreements. Ray Smith argued for education and workforce training instead. - Other Issues: Miss Lyons alleged $600 million in overpaid property taxes; Latoria Williams raised concerns about a mass shooting on Press Street and asked about CVI group effectiveness; Salah Almulaki (translated) requested more police and blight cleanup; Andrew Daniels described illegal dumping and land bank delays; Betty A. Warner sought funding for the Fink corridor; one caller urged support for anti-war candidate Abdul El-Sayed; a caller accused the city clerk of election cheating; and a speaker requested humane treatment of homeless individuals. Discussion Items - Harvey Santana Appointment (Item 16.16): Councilmember Callaway reported opposition from callers. Councilmembers Johnson and Santiago-Romero expressed concern about Santana's ties to law enforcement, noting civilian oversight requires independence. Santana, via phone, stated he serves as an unpaid Wayne County Sheriff's reserve but would step down if appointed, and his role as state director for Just Safe (public safety advocacy) does not conflict. He emphasized his 30 years of honorable service. The appointment was approved over objections from Councilmembers Santiago-Romero and McCampbell. - Zoning Resolution (Item 17.4): President Pro Tem Young introduced a non-binding resolution recommending exploration of

The committee began without a quorum, conducted public comment, and later achieved quorum. Members discussed demolition processes, contracts, transit safety, and domestic violence awareness, with several items postponed for further information. Public Comments & Testimony - Ms. Tynes (in person): Complained about her landlord, alleging the owner labeled her mentally ill, has a history of tenant abuse, and uses “military grade technology” causing electrical vibrations and headaches. She denied mental illness and stated she has documentation of citations. She urged action against the property owner. - Ruben Crowley (in person): Accused Councilmember Gabriela Santiago Romero of lying about receiving a voter fraud report on May 9, 2024, and accused Councilmember Denzel McCampbell of making uninformed statements. He also referenced a medical examiner investigation. The chair warned his speech bordered on hate speech and could be aggressive. - Joel Batterman (in person, Transportation Riders United): Urged councilmembers to participate in National Week Without Driving. Noted that over one in five Detroit households lack a car—more than twice the national average—and that bus service lags behind other cities (e.g., Chicago has 20 frequent bus routes; Detroit has only one, the Jefferson, running every 10 minutes on weekdays). He invited councilmembers to ride a bus route in their district. - Dr. Denise Darnell (online): Expressed full support for agenda item 6.6 (domestic violence awareness month), described its history since 1981, and listed the Detroit Police Victim Assistance Program (313-833-1660). She urged voting on November 3rd. - Betty A. Varner (online, President of DeSoda Ellsworth Black Association): Requested administration funding for the Fenkell Corridor revitalization and asked for a waiver of land use hearing fees (e.g., $1,500 for playground equipment) for Black 501(c)(3) organizations. She thanked the council for new businesses opening on Fenkell. - Owner Papa Mission (online): Criticized agenda item 6.2 for requesting a confidential report on contaminated sites and called for a moratorium on commercial demolitions without oversight. He also said heat mitigation requests were late and criticized the city for turning down federal immigration enforcement dollars. - William M. Davis (online): Called for greater financial literacy programs (e.g., Ladybird deeds, wills, trusts) and improved air quality monitoring in Southwest Detroit, citing health concerns. He stressed renewable energy and environmental safety. - Jacqueline (online): Commended Councilmember Santiago Romero for her constituent service, suggested she teach a masterclass to colleagues, criticized other councilmembers as “cute but ain’t special,” and quoted “it’s expensive to be poor.” Discussion Items - Demolition Process: The chair announced no demolition contracts on today’s agenda, stating that conversations with administration would occur this week to clarify funding and oversight. Contracts are expected back in committee in two weeks, possibly on next week’s formal agenda. - Unfinished Business (5.1–5.4): - 5.1 (Resolution requesting MDOT to make Rashid Avenue safer): Received and filed. - 5.2 (Follow-up to demolition presentation): Not yet on eScribe; brought back in two weeks. - 5.3 (Heat mitigation plan at the detention center): Mr. Washington confirmed it is being uploaded; brought back in two weeks. - 5.4 (Site-by-site accounting of contaminated backfill): Still being finalized; brought back in two weeks. - New Business – Office of Contract and Procurement (6.1): Contract 600769 amendment 1 with Quator Corporation (Southfield, MI) for emergency services operator training. The contract increases by $75,000 to a total of $125,000. Jamar Rickett (Executive Manager, Police Communications) explained that state mandates require training for 911 operators; two of four original vendors backed out, leaving Equitur and the 911 Training Institute. The contract covers only state-mandated training (no AI). No Detroit-based vendors were available due to state certification requirements. - Law Department (6.2): Memo regarding demolition costs and collections. The chair noted responses were provided but needed review; brought back in two weeks. - Department of Appeals and Hearings (6.3 & 6.4): Dangerous buildings findings and orders for August 28, 2026, and December 4, 2026. Both received and filed. - Legislative Policy Division (6.5): Resolution requesting MDOT to make Grashiet Avenue safer for all users. Approved and sent to formal. - Miscellaneous (6.6): Memo requesting a resolution recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The resolution was not yet on eScribe but was submitted Friday. Approved with the condition that the resolution be attached when sent to new business for approval. Key Outcomes - Unfinished business items 5.2, 5.3, and 5.4 were postponed to return in two weeks. - Contract 6.1 was sent to formal meeting with a recommendation to approve (no objections). - Memo 6.2 was brought back for further review in two weeks. - Dangerous buildings findings (6.3, 6.4) were received and filed. - Resolution 6.5 was approved and sent to formal. - Resolution for domestic violence awareness month (6.6) was approved and sent to new business with the expectation the resolution text will be attached by Tuesday. - The committee will not meet on Monday, October 12, 2026, in honor of Indigenous Peoples Day. - Shades of Pink Day was announced for October 6, 2026.

The Detroit City Council Planning and Economic Development Committee convened on October 1, 2026, under Chair Letitia Johnson. The meeting included general public comment, discussion of AI and data center policy, and two public hearings on tax abatement requests (PA 255 and Obsolete Property Rehabilitation). The committee approved both abatement requests and forwarded resolutions to the full council. Consent Calendar - The meeting minutes from the previous session were approved without objection. Public Comments & Testimony General public comment featured 12 virtual callers and three in-person speakers. Key positions: - Ray Smith (Black Bottom Group, Plastic Detroit) expressed support for hyperscale data centers in Detroit, arguing they could bring investment, but emphasized the need for robust community benefits agreements. - Mr. Foster criticized the low voter turnout (25%) and urged the council to remember that most residents did not approve current decisions. He also questioned the use of lobbying funds. - Ms. (unidentified, mentioned bus tickets) asked for continued support with bus tickets and hand warmers, and promoted "Week Without Driving" (Oct 1–8). She also requested help for her broken-down outreach vehicle. - Reuben J. Crowley Jr. made personal attacks against Chair Johnson regarding her appearance and questioned the "Jobs and Amenities Development Assemblage" program. - Betty A. Varner (President, Soda Ellsworth Black Association) thanked the council for supporting a mini market in her food-desert community and requested funds for a land use hearing fee and playground equipment. - Mavy Heard praised the mayor and encouraged continued support for seniors. - Jadante Smith called out political hypocrisy, demanded downzoning of Chronos Concrete to SD2, and alleged FBI investigations into city officials and the Land Bank. He also criticized the police chief. - Denise Lyles urged the council to keep asking questions about contracts: whether they benefit Detroiters, and to stop money from leaving the city through tax abatements. - Cindy Darrell raised concerns about the Joe Landy estate properties and called for higher voter turnout to elect Democrats. - William M. Davis supported lowering the Community Benefits Ordinance threshold for major downtown projects like the RenCen and urged better voter turnout efforts. - Renard Munchunski (Detroit People's Platform, Transit Justice Team) asked the committee to monitor the RenCen Neighborhood Advisory Council for transit impacts and requested that MDOT brief the council on the I-375 project. - Ms. Shea asked why residents cannot contact the Right to Counsel early and complained about uncleanliness at Rosa Parks Transit Center and landlord retaliation. - Katie Marino Elst (J.R. Block Club) raised concerns about the DPW Paid Bulk Collection service: piles left for weeks, hazardous materials, and use by contractors rather than residents. She requested contained dumpsters and cleanup after pickups. - Owner Papa criticized the master plan process and tax abatements in District 7, called for the police chief not to be renewed, and alleged corruption on the council. - Caller ending in 169 requested prayers for Mr. Cunningham and suggested more ride-alongs. Chair Johnson responded to several comments: she expressed personal opposition to hyperscale data centers on residentially zoned land due to water contamination concerns and encouraged connection with City Planning Commission. She also addressed personal attacks and committed to follow up on DPW bulk pickup and transit center cleaning with relevant departments. Discussion Items - Artificial Intelligence and Data Center Policy: Following public comment, council members debated data centers. Councilmember Santiago Romero noted the council had passed a two-year zoning moratorium to study the issue. Pro Tem Young preferred passing regulations rather than a moratorium, supporting a legislative and regulatory approach including "kill switches" and smart zoning. Chair Johnson agreed both approaches were aligned, with the moratorium allowing time to develop protections for Detroiters. - 1030 Public Hearing – Inn on Ferry Street (PA 255 Commercial Redevelopment District): The project involves a $10.8 million rehabilitation of historic buildings at 90 East Ferry Street, creating 30 temporary construction jobs and 25 permanent FTE jobs. The 12-year abatement would yield $390,112 net new revenue to the city ($32,509/year). Public comment was mixed: supporters (Midtown Detroit Inc., Boz Blue, Detroit Cultural Center Association) emphasized historic preservation and economic benefits; opponents (Owner Papa, Jadante Smith) argued the 12-year term was too long and questioned community benefits and process equity. Developer Wan Wu Lee described the project as a cultural guest house with a new restaurant and artist residencies, committed to hiring Detroiters. The committee voted to forward the item to formal session with a recommendation to approve. - 1040 Public Hearing – North Corktown HQ LLC (Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Certificate): The project is a $1.2 million conversion of a vacant commercial building at 3388 14th Street into a commissary kitchen and cafe. It will create 10 construction jobs and 3 permanent jobs, with a net benefit of $60,000 over 12 years. Developer Will McDowell, a 15-year Detroit resident and North Corktown Neighborhood Association board member, emphasized community focus, affordable rent for local food businesses, and a flexible space for community events. He stated that 5 letters of intent from kitchen users include black-owned and women-owned businesses. Public comment included opposition from Owner Papa and a caller questioning black involvement, and support from William Davis. The committee approved the item for formal session. Key Outcomes - 1030 Public Hearing (Ferry Street) : Approved on a motion to send to formal session with a recommendation to approve. (No roll call vote recorded; passed without objection.) - 1040 Public Hearing (North Corktown HQ) : Approved on a motion to send to formal session with a recommendation to approve. (Passed without objection.) - Line Item 8.1 (Tax incentive background check memo) : Referred back for three weeks, with law department to provide an update. - Line Item 8.2 (Report on property ownership concentrations) : Received and filed. - Line Item 8.3 (Good faith in housing ordinance) : Received and filed. - Line Item 9.1 (Zoning reform report) : Received and filed. - Line Item 9.2 (Resolution on zoning reform for affordable housing) : Approved and sent to formal session.

The Neighborhood Community Service Standing Committee of the Detroit City Council met on October 1, 2026, chaired by Council President Pro Tempore Coleman Young II. Councilmember Scott Benson was excused. The committee reviewed contracts, grant applications, and public testimony, moving most items to a formal session for final approval. Several items were deferred for further review. Public Comments & Testimony - William M. Davis spoke positively about a joint Detroit-Dearborn neighborhood block club party and urged for more cooperation between communities, keeping Detroit tax dollars in Detroit to support residents and retirees. - Cecily McCullum (We People of Detroit) opposed tax abatements for data centers, demanded an ordinance requiring at least three public hearings and community benefits agreements, and proposed requiring data centers to pay into a water affordability program if they use excessive water. She also urged voter turnout. - Caller 169 thanked attendees for praying for Brother Cunningham and praised candidate Michael Evans, encouraging more bus ride-alongs. - Cunningham (Brother Cunningham) thanked Chief Ivory Calvert for community kindness, requested assistance with an outreach vehicle repair ($3,000 to release, $30/day storage fee), and promoted his contact number and cash app. - Betty A. Barney (President, Soda Else World Black Association) provided information about free Captel phones for people with hearing loss (contact Jennifer Wheellans). - Ruben Crowley Jr. accused Council President Pro Tempore Coleman Young II of election fraud, claiming proof since 2020 and that he gave information to Donald Trump. He made threats and allegations against the council. - Cindy Darrell seconded calls for increased voter turnout, urged people to spread voting information via a grapevine (tell three people), and warned against a constitutional convention. Consent Calendar - Line 5.1 (Contract extension for laboratory equipment and test kits for animal care and control, IDEX Distribution): Moved to formal session for approval. - Line 5.2 and Line 5.3 (Initially deferred two weeks, then reconsidered and deferred three weeks): Line 5.2 concerns an unspecified contract; Line 5.3 is a memorandum on in-house media buying services. - Line 5.4 (Amendment 4 with The Right Productions for Aretha Franklin Amphitheater operations): Moved to formal session for approval. - Line 6.1 (Renaissance High School Homecoming Parade request for October 23, 2026): Moved to formal session for approval. - Line 6.5 (Request for information on in-house media buying services): Received and filed. - Line 6.6 (Unspecified item): Brought back in three weeks. Discussion Items - Line 6.2 (Environmental investigations contract amendment): Rico Razo explained the contract supports lead hazard remediation programs (not demolition testing). Two of four environmental firms ended their business, necessitating additional funds ($144,000 increase, total $524,400) and a time extension to continue services while new procurement occurs. Councilmember Young II expressed preference for a broader committee discussion on process reforms but did not block the item. Councilmember Miller inquired about cost drivers. Moved to formal session. - Line 6.3 (Similar environmental contract): Discussed briefly; moved to formal session. - Line 6.4 (Grant application to Dave and Cheryl Duffield Foundation): Lorraine Smith (General Services Department) stated the $10,000 grant (no city match) would support preventive veterinary services for citizens through Detroit Animal Care and Control. Councilmember Young II supported the item despite unclear scope. Moved to formal session. Key Outcomes - All items moved to formal session with recommendations for approval, except Line 5.2, 5.3, and 6.6 (brought back in three weeks) and Line 6.5 (received and filed). - Public comment closed with seven callers heard. - Councilmember Renata Miller announced a circus event at Clay Park on Friday, October 2, 2026, at 7 p.m., where she will serve as ringmaster. - The meeting adjourned without objection.

The Detroit City Council held its second statutory public hearing for the Bridging Neighborhoods project at Patton Park. The hearing included a presentation by Director Rico Razo on the program's history, investments, and proposed amendments to the 2017 resolution, followed by public comment. Council members also responded to earlier general public comments on various neighborhood issues. General Public Comments & Testimony (Before Presentation) - Jose Guzman raised concerns about truck traffic on Central Avenue and requested enforcement of truck routes. - Simone (unstated affiliation) advocated for more truck parking, better air quality engagement, and stronger tree protection policies. - Unnamed resident (69-year Delray resident) criticized contractor work quality, reported shootings and break-ins, and requested more attention to Delray. - Springdale Woodmere Block Club / Friends of Patton Park expressed disappointment that community engagement on the Renaissance Center demolition began after demolition started, and raised concerns about water contamination from demolition near the Detroit River. - Delray resident requested better street lighting, addressed sewage odors, poor sidewalks, and asked if leftover bridge funds could be used for house repairs. - Resident inquired about a roof repair program that ended September 22, 2026, asking for it to be reopened. - Online caller Ronald Foster criticized low voter turnout (25% overall, 10% in some districts) and urged accountability for elected officials and better public education. - Councilmember Santiago Romero responded to each issue: noted a new truck enforcement unit, committed to air quality advocacy, urged residents to report specific contractor issues, and pledged to look into Delray shootings and roof repair programs. Councilmember Waters promised a memo to increase police patrols in Delray and reiterated the need to bar bad contractors. President Tate added that Renaissance Center demolition will be enclosed (deconstruction method) to control dust. Presentation by Director Rico Razo Director Razo detailed the Bridging Neighborhoods program, created from $32.6 million in community benefits from the Gordie Howe International Bridge project. Key investments to date: - Home Swap Program: $20 million spent; 79 households relocated to fully renovated homes (112 homes renovated across the city). - I-75 Environmental Mitigation Program: $7.6 million spent; 174 households received insulation, noise-reducing windows, central air, and upgraded filters. - Additional projects: Strategic Neighborhood Fund, Michigan Central CBA, Stellantis phase 2/3, Ossian Sweet Historic Block, Joe Lewis Greenway pilot, seawall repairs in Jefferson Chalmers, and MDOT-funded air conditioning/tree program. Proposed Resolution Amendments (to the 2017 resolution): 1. Expand eligible home swap to include duplexes and already rehabbed homes. 2. Expand home repair/indoor air quality improvements to owner-occupied homes directly affected by the bridge expansion within expanded boundaries (south of Fort, between Rouge River and Clark Street, west of Clark Street/north of Ford Street/south of I-75). 3. Resume the I-75 environmental mitigation program for the area 300 feet south of I-75 service drive between Clark and Springwells Streets. 4. Update resolution to reflect the program now under the Department of Human Homeless and Family Services (interim director Chelsea Neblett). Proposed Allocations: - Home repair/indoor air quality: $2.46 million (estimated 110 homes) - I-75 environmental mitigation south of I-75: $540,000 (estimated 12 homes) - Home swap: $1 million (estimated 6 homes) Public Comments on the Hearing (After Presentation) - Jose Guzman expressed satisfaction with the program, having been a past participant. - Simone Sagalak (Southwest Community Benefit Coalition) thanked the city for keeping money in the community and supported the proposal as presented. - Michael Christopher thanked council and expressed support for the community-focused approach. - Virginia Gorardo asked about home repair eligibility for her home (north of I-75). Director Razo informed her of potential qualification under the new boundary and noted biannual citywide critical home repair application periods (next in February 2027). - John Ricks asked about meeting the 2017 resolution requirement for one hearing north and one south of I-75 (Director Razo confirmed both were held), the availability of amendments online (not yet, but they will be published when the resolution goes to council), and what was done for renters (Director Razo noted rental units were included in environmental mitigation and MDOT programs). - Maria Gomez asked if her new home purchase qualifies (Director Razo explained that eligibility requires residency since June 23, 2017). - Anne Burns (Springdale Woodmere, Friends of Patton Park) supported the grants but requested inclusion of corridors from Lafayette to I-75 and Carbon Works, and called for cumulative effects protections, downzoning of vacated industrial parcels, and requiring businesses to move below Ford Street via land swaps. - Online caller Ronald Foster asked whether the city would seek additional funds from the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority and advocated for community involvement in writing program language. Director Razo responded that the team seeks other funding opportunities but could not promise future bridge authority funds. Discussion Items - Councilmember Santiago Romero noted that language allowing program changes without council approval had been removed from the resolution, as previously requested. - Councilmember Pro Tem Young asked about partnerships with environmental protection for carbon capture, vegetation, or sound walls. Director Razo clarified that current programs focus on indoor air quality and noise mitigation, not those technologies, but would consider if funding allowed. Key Outcomes - The proposed amendments to the Bridging Neighborhoods 2017 resolution were formally presented for public feedback. - Next steps: The city law department will finalize the amended resolution, which will then go before City Council’s Neighborhood and Community Services Committee and then to a full council vote. Target: late October/early November 2026. - If approved, program implementation (outreach, standing up services) is expected to begin in early 2027. - Councilmember Santiago Romero emphasized that no changes to the program can occur without council approval after passage. - The meeting was adjourned with no objections.

The Internal Operations Standing Committee met on September 30, 2026, chaired by Councilmember Angela Whitfield Callaway, with Councilmembers Scott Benson and Renata Miller present. The committee addressed a range of items including settlement approvals, contract extensions, personnel matters, and public comments. Several items were deferred for further review. Meeting Opening and Minutes Approval - Roll call confirmed attendance: Callaway (President), Benson, and Miller. - During approval of the minutes, Benson requested that interview acknowledgments (including names and start times) be included in the minutes; the chair agreed to have edits submitted before the end of the meeting. - The meeting opened with a prayer led by Benson, referencing Proverbs 14:31. Public Comments - Adrian Tines complained about her landlord on West Grand Boulevard, alleging he called her mentally ill and used military-grade surveillance technology. She stated she has contacted police, state police, and the FBI. - Dr. Denise Darnell (Michigan Education Justice Coalition) opposed the federal voucher program, urging Governor Whitmer to opt out to protect public school funding. She highlighted potential cuts to Title I, IDEA, and nutrition programs. - The Rattler alleged ballot fraud in Detroit elections, specifically referencing an international absentee ballot issue, and demanded investigations of election officials. - Betty A. Varner (President, Soda Elsewhere Block Association) thanked the council for supporting a mini-market in her food-desert community. She requested assistance with a $1,500 land-use hearing fee and playground equipment. - Owner Papa questioned the $925,000 Herman Kiefer settlement, citing scripture and demanding accountability. - William M. Davis called for restoration of city retiree pensions, noting that pensions were cut and healthcare taken. He encouraged voter turnout. - Cunningham shared personal religious experiences and urged unity and mutual support. - Ronald Foster commented on community social dynamics and encouraged mutual cooperation. - Sydney Dara urged listeners to vote against the constitutional convention, support Democratic candidates, and take action against “fascism.” Unfinished Business - 5.1 Settlement (Sherry Ware v. Mary Lou Engelman/DPD, $60,000): Callaway criticized the employee’s driving record and city vehicle use. Miller moved to defer for one week; Benson withdrew his approval motion. The item was deferred one week without objection. - 5.2 Settlement (Mandy Mitchell v. City of Detroit): Approved without objection. - 5.3 Settlement (Virginia Park LLC/Herman Kiefer, $925,000): Law Department explained the bankruptcy and settlement terms. Callaway and Miller expressed frustration and called for better terms. Miller moved to defer two weeks, approved without objection. - 5.4 Contract extension (Floyd E. Allen & Associates): Law Department requested a one-week deferral; approved. - 5.5 HR classification (Deputy Director of Cable Communications): Discussion noted the commission no longer exists; deferred one week. - 5.6 Tenants Rights Commission ordinance: Deferred three weeks. New Business - 6.1 Contract (Post-arraignment legal defense): Approved, with a request for performance data from Miller. - 6.2 Contract (Election logistics system): Approved. - 6.3 Settlement (Brandon Owens v. Officer Christopher Jones, $300,000): Approved. - 6.4 Settlement (Brian Diaz v. City of Detroit, $14,000,000 total): Approved. Benson discussed the importance of investing in DDOT drivers and noted the person was terminated. - 6.5 Settlement (First Choice Met LLC, $10,000): Approved. - 6.6 Settlement (Fuqua Peak v. Julius Burks, $20,000): Approved. - 6.7 Settlement (Patrick Donald Gaughan, $25,000): Approved. - 6.8 Settlement (Larry Hinton, $90,000): Approved. - 6.9 Settlement (Northland Radiology, $9,000): Approved. - 6.10 Settlement (Vega Sleason, $27,500): Approved (related to 6.9 but separate). - 6.11 Settlement (Daryl LaFord, $125,000): Approved. - 6.12 Settlement (Muhammad Abdus Salam Muhammad, $210,000): Deferred one week for additional details. - 6.13 Charitable gaming license (Michigan Science Center): Date error noted; moved to end of agenda and later approved. - 6.14 2027 benefit rates: Approved. Benefits Manager Ayana Jackson detailed negotiations resulting in below-market increases; the BCN plan sees no employee rate change. - 6.15 Labor agreement (AFSCME Local 925, 21 employees): Approved. - 6.16 Property assessment board certification costs: Deferred one week. Members' Reports - Miller announced she will serve as ringmaster at the Universal Soul Circus on Friday at 7 p.m. in District 5. - Callaway announced a coffee and conversation event on October 12 at House of Prayer and Praise, and a district webinar on October 19. She also reminded residents about free lead testing. Key Outcomes - Multiple settlements and contracts approved as noted above. - Deferrals: 5.1 (1 week), 5.3 (2 weeks), 5.4 (1 week), 5.5 (1 week), 5.6 (3 weeks), 6.12 (1 week), 6.16 (1 week). - Callaway emphasized the need for a city vehicle usage policy reform and noted she would contact DDOT about random drug testing.

The Budget, Finance, and Audit (BFA) Standing Committee of the Detroit City Council met on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 4:00 PM UTC. The meeting included public comment, a detailed review of the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) and Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) financials, budget implementation discussions on public safety, consideration of several contracts and reports, and action on multiple agenda items. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the September 23, 2026, meeting were approved unanimously. - Receipt and Filing of Reports: The following items were received and filed without objection: 7.2 (Risk Management Council Annual Report), 7.6 (LPD Report on DWSD/GLWA), and 8.1 (Office of the Auditor General External Quality Review). - Removal of Duplicate: Item 7.11 was removed as a duplicate. Public Comments & Testimony - The Rattler (prisoner number 29647039): Called for Councilmember McCampbell to summon Gina Avery Walker, Director of the Detroit Department of Elections, to explain how council-allocated funds to the elections department have been spent. Expressed distrust of the election process. - Cunningham: Thanked council members for support, requested prayers and donations for a replacement outreach vehicle, and praised the disability task force. Noted past negativity from the previous council. - Betty A. Varner (President, Souda Ellsworth Black Association): Thanked council for supporting a mini market in the community (a food desert). Urged the administration to provide funding for the Gratiot corridor and requested a $1,500 fee waiver for a land use hearing needed to obtain playground equipment. - William M. Davis (former DWSD employee): Strongly opposed the GLWA lease agreement (item 7.6), arguing it gave the city less power, control, and flexibility, and no rent increases. Called for renegotiation to get a more equitable return, referencing the city's bankruptcy and former Mayor Coleman Young's warnings. - Ronald Foster: Criticized the city's budget direction and policies, particularly GLWA, which he called a “waste dump for the state.” Expressed concern over council members’ personal agendas and lack of independence from the former mayor's influence. - Zoom User (Mr. Smith): Expressed disappointment with Councilmember McCampbell, reported seeing multiple EPU vehicles before his phone was taken, and called for forensic audits of city departments. Complained about the Detroit Land Bank’s unmaintained properties and nuisance abatement selectively enforced. Criticized a contractor and raised concerns about corruption. Rejected an offer of friendship from Jerry Ashford. Discussion Items 1. DWSD/GLWA Financial Review and Update (Item 7.6) The Legislative Policy Division (LPD) presented its annual high-level financial review of DWSD and GLWA. Key points: - GLWA was created in 2016 via a 40-year lease with a flat $50 million annual payment to DWSD ($27.5M sewer, $22.5M water). - DWSD's FY 2025 audited financials: Water fund operating income $5M, capital grants $53M; Sewer disposal fund operating income $19M, capital grants $16M. - GLWA's FY 2025 audited financials: Water fund operating income $31M; Sewer fund operating income $54M, capital grants $37M. - LPD expressed concern about project delays negatively impacting service delivery. - DWSD Deputy Director Sam Smalley and CFO Istacker Raman presented the department's strategic priorities: green infrastructure, fair rates, infrastructure strengthening, public health, and customer experience. - DWSD has replaced over 17,000 lead service lines (can do 250/week with funding), aims to replace 70,000 lines at a cost of $700M. Self-financing would require 15% annual rate increases; bonding would require 5.5%. - The average age of water mains is 93 years; DWSD replaces about 13.6 miles per year, aiming to reach 30 miles per year. - DWSD is cleaning 600 miles of sewer annually (every 4.5 years) and 8,000 of 90,000 catch basins. - DWSD received $175M federal grant for alley sewer repairs (9,000 connections). - The water board building needs at least $30M in repairs; a decision on whether to invest or relocate is expected by end of 2026. - Lifeline H2O affordability program currently protects 4,700 customers; full funding for all eligible (up to 30,000) would require $18M. - Council members asked about renegotiating the GLWA lease (DWSD does not recommend it), water main break costs ($15-20K per break), contractor penalties, and the building's market value. Concerns were raised about affordability and the impact of federal grant freezes. 2. Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Implementation Discussion 3: Public Safety (Item 130) The committee reviewed four shared priority items: - DPD Truck Traffic Enforcement Unit Pilot: Item 2 (Member Santiago Romero) – $550,000 for a pilot in District 6 with citywide rollout. Commander Ian Sedry reported the unit is being built; two officers will be dedicated daily. Training is underway with launch expected in Q4 2026. Residents can report violations via SeeClickFix or local precincts. Education efforts with trucking companies are ongoing. - Citizens Blight Patrol: Item 3 (Member Callaway) – $50,000 to roll over and create a separate cost center for blight patrol, modeled after Citizens Radio Patrol. Lieutenant Delisha Anderson reported that the standard operating procedure (SOP) and ordinance are with the legal department for review. The program will be citywide; rollout expected in Q2 2027. About 50 people have signed up. - Executive Protection for City Clerk: Item 4 – Two DPD officers assigned to the City Clerk with same level of training as mayor’s detail. First Assistant Chief Hayes confirmed the detail is budgeted for primary, general, and special elections, and can be activated for rallies or other events at the clerk’s request. - DFD Capital Investment Study: Item 49 (Member Benson) – $500,000 for a capital investment study of fire facilities. Deputy Commissioner Hillman reported an RFP is being developed with OCP and should be released shortly. Contract award expected by January 2027, with analysis complete by FY28 Q3. The study will include response capabilities per NFPA/ISO standards and stakeholder input. 3. Unfinished Business: Car Wash Contracts (Item 7.1) The committee discussed a contract for vehicle washing services that was sent back from formal session because it lacked east-side locations. Councilmember Waters and Vice Chair Johnson stressed the need for equitable distribution. OCP’s Raymond Green said they are actively working with three potential east-side vendors but the process takes months (due to treasury clearance, financials, etc.). Current contracts have about 1 year 10 months remaining. The committee agreed to bring the item back in one week with an update on east-side locations. 4. Risk Management Council Annual Report (Item 7.2) Risk Manager Larry Foley presented the annual report. Key highlights: - The city spends $3.2M annually on insurance premiums ($2.5M on property insurance). An RFP for a new broker is underway. - Litigated auto payouts (2019-2025) total $50M across DPD, DFD, and DDOT. A single catastrophic loss can spike yearly results. - The risk management committee is focusing on driver hiring, training, and accident investigation to reduce losses. - Pollution legal liability claim (from residential demolitions) has been submitted to the insurer; process is ongoing. - Workers’ compensation claims have decreased significantly with Comp One as administrator. - The report was received and filed. 5. Fiscal Year 2027 One-Month Financial Report (Item 7.3) Deputy Budget Director Matt Spath and Treasurer Valerie Gowley presented the July 2026 financial report. Notable items: - The city received the GFOA Certificate of Achievement for the 8th straight year and the Distinguished Budget Award for the 4th straight year. - July variances: $3.7M unfavorable in other revenues (timing), $11.4M unfavorable in professional contractual services (timing of invoices). These are expected to smooth out. - The budget includes $22.5M in continuing appropriations from FY26 unspent balances (subject to audit finalization). - Employee count: Police dropped 58 (school crossing guards on summer break); Fire increased 37 (student firefighters). - Income tax: Partnerships saw a spike ($7.8M) due to state cleanup of misapplied payments; a corresponding reduction in corporate tax is expected next month. - Cash position: $1.4B total general ledger cash, down $386M from prior year (due to use of retiree protection trust fund, capital project proceeds, and ARPA dollars). - Accounts payable: Three invoices over 61 days are being resolved. - The item was brought back for one week to allow OCFO to address a question about an unpaid invoice. 6. Other Unfinished and New Business - 7.4 (Data Center Tax Revenue Impact): Brought back in three weeks. - 7.5 (Claims Ordinance Amendment): Law Department requested one-week bring back; committee approved. - 7.7 (Property Tax Legislation Analysis): Brought back in three weeks (Member Waters). - 7.8 (Grant Opportunities for Community Organizations): Brought back in one week; Member Waters noted she had not received the memo. - 7.9 (Data Center Tax Revenue Impact Analysis): Brought back in three weeks. - 7.10 (Grant Applications Report): Brought back in three weeks. - 8.2 (NEZ Certificate for 3436 Cochrane): Approved and sent to formal. Developer Sean Tidwell (King & Cocker) proposed a 21-unit apartment building with 19 parking spaces, six units at 80% AMI and nine at 120% AMI. Total development cost $8M. Over 80% Detroit-based contractors. First ground-up development for the team. - 8.3 (Budget Implementation Follow-up): Brought back in three weeks. - 8.4 (Montif Branch Capital Improvements): Brought back in three weeks (Vice Chair Johnson). Key Outcomes - Approved and Sent to Formal Session: Item 8.2 (NEZ for 3436 Cochrane). - Received and Filed: Items 7.2, 7.6, 8.1. - Brought Back in One Week: Items 7.1 (car wash contracts – for update on east-side locations), 7.3 (financial report – to answer invoice question), 7.5 (claims ordinance amendment), 7.8 (grant opportunities memo). - Brought Back in Three Weeks: Items 7.4, 7.7, 7.9, 7.10, 8.3, 8.4. - Removed: Item 7.11 (duplicate). - Public Safety Budget Items: All four items are on track. DPD truck enforcement pilot launching Q4 2026; blight patrol rollout Q2 2027; executive protection for City Clerk is operational; DFD capital study RFP to be released shortly. - DWSD/GLWA: No action taken; report received and filed. Council members expressed ongoing concerns about affordability, the fixed $50M lease payment, and the need for state/federal funding for lead service line replacement and affordability programs. - Risk Management: Report received; focus on reducing auto losses through driver safety initiatives.

The Detroit City Council held its regular session on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, beginning in the morning and continuing into the afternoon. The posted agenda and minutes were not included in the source material; this summary is drawn from the transcript. After an invocation by State Representative Stephanie A. Young, the council heard 20 in-person speakers and more than 30 online callers before taking up contracts, grants, zoning changes, appointments, and a walk-on CVI contract. Public Comments & Testimony - Voting accessibility: Members of Detroit Advocates for the Blind and other residents testified that VAT machines were defective or unusable in the August 2026 primary. Deborah McCray said machines were frozen and poll workers untrained; Richard Clay, president of Detroit Advocates for the Blind, called the failures a violation of federal civil rights; and Sabrina Rice described trying three machines over about two hours without being able to vote independently. Daryl Rice, a retired DPD officer, said poll workers were incompetent, while John Scott, a retired assistant corporation counsel, asked why AutoMark machines had been replaced with VAT machines he could not hear or use. - Housing: Mary Perry, 80, testified that her downtown apartment building had a persistent leak, mold, and a pan placed to catch water, and that water had spilled onto her mattress. Other speakers and online callers described landlord retaliation, broken inspections, and eviction threats; one caller said a building inspector failed to appear and tenants were being evicted despite mold, bed bugs, and water damage. - Police commission appointment: Elena Harada and Josh Bann opposed appointing Harvey Santana to the Detroit Board of Police Commissioners, arguing the charter requires civilian oversight and that a former law-enforcement official/politician is not a citizen-oversight candidate. The appointment was later postponed one week. - Food access: Several residents supported the proposed mini market at Finkel and Wyoming, including Betty Verner of the Soda Ellsworth Block Association and L. Michelle Johnson of the Finkel Corridor; they described the area as a food desert/food apartheid and said the former grocery site had become a dispensary. Some callers supported the mini market but not a gas station. - Development: District 2 residents Nicole Small and William Davis criticized the Renaissance Center redevelopment process, saying meetings lacked agendas and public support; Small said GM's $250 million investment could cost Detroit taxpayers more than $500 million in tax incentives. Christopher Van Ness said he supported a plan for the mostly vacant RenCen but was embarrassed by what he described as hostile treatment of dissent at the community meeting. - Other testimony: Additional speakers supported the Fort Shelby Hotel redevelopment (Ken Hayward, Visit Detroit), emergency blue-light call stations (Chloe Lawson), CVI funding (Stephen Grady, Detroit 300 2.0), and a reparations update; other speakers raised concerns about AI, demolition spending, bus shelters and benches, trash cans at bus stops, tax billing errors, and alleged election administration failures. Council Responses to Public Comment - Council President Tate said he was reaching out to the clerk's office and Department of Elections and, as an election commissioner, took the voting-access testimony seriously. - Councilmember Johnson said she would request training on using and setting up VAT machines and issue a memo comparing VAT with AutoMark and asking whether the machines are city-owned. - Pro Tem Young requested an audit of machine costs, standards, and possible federal grants, and called for a presentation on accessibility technology. - Councilmember Santiago Romero said an 18-month temporary AI zoning moratorium was being drafted; members also pledged emergency inspections for Mary Perry's building and tenant-union support for residents at Grand Boulevard. Committee Reports and Voting Actions - Routine approvals: The council approved numerous resolutions by general consent or with noted objections, including CDBG reprogramming (17.4), an NEZ certificate (17.5), a DDA downtown streetscape budget amendment (17.6), internal-operations and personnel items (18.7-18.15), property sales (19.4-19.7 except 19.6), bridge grant applications (20.22-20.25), mayor's office/contracting items (21.1-21.13), and testimonial resolutions (32.1-32.4). Many items had waivers attached. - Car wash contracts (17.1 and 17.2): Members criticized OCP for again bringing a citywide car wash contract without an east-side vendor. OCP said five car washes are on the west side and zero on the east side, with 3-4 east-side locations under discussion but no contracts. The motion passed initially 5-4, but the council then voted to reconsider and sent 17.1 back to committee while keeping 17.2 approved. - Zoning ordinances: 19.1 (5130 14th Street and 2150 Putnam Street, R2 to PD Planned Development) passed 9-0. 19.2 (15321 Wyoming Street, B2 to B4) passed 8-1, with Councilmember Santiago Romero voting no. - Police commission appointment (18.16): Harvey Santana's appointment was postponed one week. - Emergency demolitions (20.1-20.14): Councilmember Santiago Romero said the council was being asked to pay for emergency demolitions after the fact; Pro Tem Young raised questions about general-obligation bond financing and interest-rate risk. The 14 items were approved over Councilmember McCampbell's objection. 20.15 (new airport hangar) was postponed one week; 20.16 was approved; 20.17 (municipal parking headquarters) was postponed after Councilmember Callaway raised ownership concerns; 20.18-20.21 were postponed for ownership and information issues. - Renaissance/community engagement: Councilmember Waters said the previous night's meeting was District 5's first Renaissance project meeting, drew over 80 people, and was meant for impact-zone residents; she said she is not married to the project and would decide after gathering facts. - Surveillance and tax-filing contracts: 21.15 was postponed one week after Councilmember McCampbell said the report lacked information on cameras and use; 21.20 was postponed one week so the administration could identify another funding source for the earned-income tax filing assistance contract. 21.24 was also postponed one week due to a scrivener's error/administration request. - Smart reentry grant (21.21): Councilmembers Santiago Romero and McCampbell objected to NOFO language requiring immigration enforcement. Administration officials said the city would not conduct immigration enforcement and would provide legal guardrails; the application was nonetheless approved over their objections. - Prince Hall greenway donation (21.27): GSD Deputy Director Gerrell Harris explained that a small portion (less than 0.04 acres) of the Dennis Archer Greenway had been built by mistake on Prince Hall apartments property; the owner was donating it at no cost. Councilmember Callaway asked for written legal protections, and the Law Department agreed to demonstrate those safeguards. - CVI/Force Detroit walk-on: Council approved a contract continuation for Force Detroit. Director Michael Peterson said the University of Michigan evaluation was released, and new CVI metrics and scopes are targeted for the next fiscal cycle beginning July 1, 2027. - Rocket Community Fund grant (25.2): Council approved an application for a $65,000 grant to support staffing for the annual Detroit Home Repair Census; no city match is required. The application was due September 30, 2026. - Millage support (21.29): Council approved a resolution supporting the 'Yes to Our Story' millage for the Charles H. Wright Museum, Detroit Historical Museum, and Dossin Great Lakes Museum. Councilmember Miller said it would cost about $15/year for a $150,000 home and $30/year for a $300,000 home and would provide free admission and student/senior tours. Key Outcomes - Journal of the September 15, 2026 session approved. - Public comment closed after 20 in-person and more than 30 online speakers. - 17.1 sent back to committee; 17.2 approved. - 18.16 (Harvey Santana appointment) postponed one week. - 19.1 passed 9-0; 19.2 passed 8-1. - 20.1-20.14 approved; 20.15, 20.17, and 20.18-20.21 postponed; 20.16 approved; 20.22 approved with a waiver. - 21.15, 21.20, and 21.24 postponed one week. - 21.21 approved for submission over objections; 21.29 millage support resolution approved. - 21.30 and 21.31 roll call resolutions passed 7-2, with Councilmembers Benson and Santiago Romero voting no. - Force Detroit CVI contract and Rocket Community Fund grant application approved. - Member reports were suspended.