OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD
Record of Proceedings

Detroit City Council Internal Operations Committee Meeting - January 14, 2026

City Council — Wednesday, January 14, 2026
BodyDetroit, Michigan
SessionCity Council
DateWednesday, January 14, 2026
StatusFILED
Video Record
0:00 / 2:53:44

Transcript — Verbatim
0:07

Madam Chair, we have quorum.

0:09

Thank you so much.

0:10

And Miss Um Ellis, if you could cut off the public comment and two minutes, that'd be great.

0:18

Miss Ellis.

0:20

You could cut off public comment in two minutes.

0:23

Next on the agenda is our invocation.

0:27

And I'm just gonna read something that Peter gave me to read to um this morning.

0:32

So thank you, Peter.

0:35

Teach us, good Lord, to serve you as you deserve, to give and not to count the cost, to fight and not to heed the wounds, to toil and not to seek for rest, to labor, and not to ask for reward, except that of knowing that we are doing your will.

0:56

Thank you, Peter.

0:57

Thank you for that.

0:58

Hope you all enjoyed that.

0:59

There um may I have a motion for the approval of the minutes?

1:04

Motion.

1:05

Okay.

1:05

Hearing no objections.

1:11

That motion is approved.

1:12

There are no chair remarks.

1:14

And um, do we have anyone in the audience who was here for public comment in person, Mr.

1:20

Um Cunningham?

1:21

If you could take the first microphone, and then the next person, I saw your hand.

1:25

If you want to sit next to Mr.

1:26

Cunningham, you can make public comment.

1:28

Mr.

1:28

Foster, and happy new year to you both you have two minutes, Mr.

1:35

Cuttingham.

1:36

You want to introduce yourself, and you have two minutes.

1:43

Greetings, everyone.

1:44

Happy new year.

1:45

If I ain't told you 313, 444-9114, 313-444-9114.

1:51

313, 444, 9114.

1:54

That number was made so you can remember it.

1:56

And on Facebook, not enemy Detroit.

1:58

Again, on Facebook, not enemy Detroit.

2:01

Click on people.

2:02

I believe the pictures with me and my mom at Christmas at this time.

2:06

Thank you for your prayers.

2:07

My birthday is not until the 26th.

2:10

I'll be 44.

2:11

Um, but I've been getting text messages, so that's cool.

2:14

But it's on the 26th, keep me in prayer.

2:17

Last night, as always, or this time I was at the Rosa Parks Transit Center at the 444 building on the on the left side.

2:26

I was parked there.

2:27

A gentleman said, I'm homeless, I'm hungry, and I need some money.

2:31

I know him.

2:32

I knew he has mental problems and doesn't take his medication.

2:35

Um, but I I gave gave him the money, and I um turned my head to the right, and then he hits me in my eye, and I'm on blood thinners, so blood was just shooting everywhere.

2:47

I thought I need stitches with so much blood.

2:50

Um, so I didn't see any police around at all, trying to call the police, waited 30 minutes.

2:56

Um, but I uh I appreciate those that tried to serve Chief Bettison and just um and I said I'm gonna stop this, giving out these hand warmers, these busted goods.

3:09

I I I just it I hurt so bad.

3:11

Um, not in pain, but emotionally, you know.

3:14

I'm trying to help folks, and this type of stuff happens to me.

3:17

My license place is no luck.

3:18

This is my life like that.

3:20

You know, I was homeless for 10 years.

3:23

But when I woke up after prayer this morning, I still say God is good all the time.

3:33

Uh I need hand warmers, gloves, blankets, bus tickets, and uh uh hotline number 313 4449114, and that's also my cash app and those council persons.

3:46

Please give that to somebody in your community that takes the bus.

3:49

Thank you so much, Mr.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Public Safety████████████████16%
Public Comment███████████████15%
Personnel Matters████████8%
Procedural██████6%
Planning████4%
Affordable Housing████4%
Legal Affairs████4%
Fire Prevention████4%
Community Engagement████4%
Summary of Proceedings

Detroit City Council Internal Operations Committee Meeting - January 14, 2026

This regular meeting of the Internal Operations Committee began with an invocation, approval of previous minutes, and public comment. The committee then conducted confirmation interviews for several mayoral appointees: Police Chief Todd Bettison, HRD Director Julie Schneider, Corporation Counsel Conrad Mallet, Fire Commissioner Charles Sims, CFO Tanya Staudemeyer, Planning Director Alexa Bush, and HR Director Denise Starr. Following interviews, the committee considered numerous resolutions, including settlements, legal representation items, and the certification of the Rivertown Business Improvement Zone election.

Public Comments & Testimony

  • Mr. Cuttingham (in person): Reported being assaulted the previous night at Rosa Parks Transit Center by a homeless man he tried to help. He requested hand warmers, gloves, blankets, bus tickets, and shared his contact and CashApp info. Council members expressed sympathy and encouraged changing his license plate from "No Luck" to positive wording.
  • Mr. Foster (in person): Stressed accountability for city officials, particularly Police Chief and Corporation Counsel. He emphasized the need for a change in attitude and that officials took an oath before God.
  • Mr. Anthony Scott (in person): Complimented police, fire, DDOT, and city council, stating their good work is often overlooked. He expressed appreciation for city services.
  • Todd Scott (online caller, Detroit Greenways Coalition): Expressed full support for the reappointment of Planning Director Alexa Bush, citing her work on the Fitzgerald Greenway and Avenue of Fashion, which he said surpassed Ferndale's Nine Mile Road example.
  • Jadante Smith (online caller): Criticized Conrad Mallet and the city for allegedly helping Kronos/Crown Enterprises avoid blight tickets. He referenced a redacted memo and also complained about the Department of Neighborhoods and District 4 Manager Taylor Harrill.
  • Ona Papa (online caller): Called the city corrupt, criticized chairperson assignments (specifically Romero on health/public safety), said Julie Schneider's resume is insufficient, and argued police misconduct settlements are too high.
  • William M. Davis (online caller): Called for more action on human trafficking, stated some reappointments should not be made, criticized Conrad Mallet for conflicts of interest as attorney for both city and Police Commission, and called the health department a "joke" with poor leasing decisions.
  • Eddie A. Varner (online caller): Provided information about a Senior Chore Services program (313-579-1000 ext. 301) for seniors 60+, offering free home maintenance services. She also expressed sympathy for Mr. Cuttingham.
  • Caller ending in 039 (online): Thanked former Police Chief James White for calling Michigan State Police and insisted Kenya Coleman did not shoot herself (DTB case).
  • C. Gina Brown Anderson (online caller): Complained about the BSA online property tax payment system, stating a paid tax bill was sent to Wayne County with fees and interest, and argued the city should pay those fees.
  • Melissa Love (online caller): Cited the National Voter Registration Act, claimed she never voted and demanded justice, and criticized high DTE rates, insurance, liquor stores, and lack of grocery stores.
  • Ms. Riley (online caller): Complained about technical difficulties that prevented her from speaking earlier (she joined before public comment cut-off). She also complained about someone stealing political campaign signs.

Discussion Items

  • Interview with Police Chief Todd Bettison: Chief Bettison reviewed 2024 crime statistics: homicides down 20% (202 total) and 50% since 2020; non-fatal shootings dropped from 606 to 440; carjackings down to 76 (from 142 the prior year). He discussed community engagement, parental responsibility for curfew, juvenile violence, CVI expansion, and the new Office of Violence Prevention. Council members asked about quality-of-life enforcement in parks and abandoned cars. He committed to working with council districts through Chief's Neighborhood Liaison Capt. Derek Griffin.
  • Interview with HRD Director Julie Schneider: Discussed accomplishments: 2,000+ affordable housing units completed since 2015, 23% increase in affordable units citywide; down payment assistance helping over 800 households; improved HUD compliance (no findings in two years). She addressed workforce housing, infill development, and the expanded PILOT ordinance. Council members raised concerns about apartment buildings in Palmer Park.
  • Interview with Corporation Counsel Conrad Mallet: He highlighted new blight enforcement, the criminal division, right to counsel, and efforts to address quit claim deed fraud (300 victims). Discussed the new misdemeanor ordinance (enforcement starts June) and alternative sentencing through 36th District Court. He mentioned exploring AI to handle FOIA requests more efficiently and confirmed the Real Toke Renta tenant case will have a hearing Friday at 10 a.m. before Judge Annette Barry.
  • Interview with Fire Commissioner Charles Sims: Reported historic low response time (~7 minutes 30 seconds for medical calls). Accomplishments: Heart Safe City designation, new SCBA system, $10.7M for 10 ambulances and 10 fire trucks, cross-training 450 members, first paramedic class graduated. Future: nurse navigation, 10-year replacement plan, new fire stations. Council raised concerns about only 21% of firefighters living in Detroit and 34% African American representation. Sims noted 1,900 applicants for 70 positions. Also discussed a non-functioning hydrant at 19203 Pinehurst and naming a training room after Steele Hughes’ grandmother.
  • Interview with CFO Tanya Staudemeyer: Reported a $105M surplus for the prior fiscal year. Noted revenue challenges due to declining corporate income taxes (manufacturers) offset by internet gaming taxes. Outlined budget timeline: priority forums start Jan. 26, revenue estimating conference Feb. 13, mayor's budget address March 7, council vote April 7. The new Executive Organization Plan will be neutral. Council members emphasized fiscal discipline and the need for legislative staffing.
  • Interview with Planning Director Alexa Bush: Discussed the ongoing Master Plan update (draft policies and place types to be released district by district late Feb/early March). Also discussed Motor City Match and small business sustainability, and the Ulysses S. Grant house. Council members stressed the need for broader community engagement in planning meetings.
  • Interview with HR Director Denise Starr: Highlighted transition to UKG payroll system, employee engagement surveys, paid parental leave (300+ participants since 2021), talent development awards, and 25% internal promotion rate. Upcoming contracts: DFFA (June 2026) and three police unions (2027). Council questioned remote work, HB-1 visa holders (11 total, none live in Detroit, one in Illinois), and the city's reliance on foreign workers. Starr stated the city has stopped new HB-1 visas and will not restart without council approval.
  • Rivertown Business Improvement Zone (BIZ) Election: Gina Cavalier (Downtown Detroit Partnership) reported 74.6% voter approval and 80% of proposed assessment voted. The BIZ will be the third in Detroit, covering Rivertown from Rivard Street to just past the MacArthur Bridge. Some property owners (dealership, apartments) opposed due to concerns about rent increases. Council received and filed the certification report.

Key Outcomes

  • Approved (by motion, no objections): Approval of previous minutes.
  • Brought back (to Jan. 23, 2026 special session): Resolution for Executive Organization Plan amendment (item 14.1).
  • Brought back (to Jan. 23, 2026): Resolutions reappointing Denise Starr, Todd Bettison, Julie Schneider, Conrad Mallet, Charles Sims, Tanya Staudemeyer, and Alexa Bush (items 14.2–14.8).
  • Approved (moved to formal session Jan. 20, 2026):
    • Contract 67597 with Dastin Corp for cybersecurity ($160,000+) – item 14.9.
    • Settlement in Advanced Physician Group Pharmacy v. City ($6,500) – item 14.10.
    • Settlement in Manfred Brandenburger v. City – item 14.11.
    • Settlement in Antonio Shelby & Christian Carpenter v. City – item 14.12.
    • Settlement in City v. Bemini Properties – item 14.13.
    • Settlement in Darrell Barnes v. City ($100,000, DDOT) – item 14.14.
    • Settlement in Lenise Frazier v. City ($35,000, DDOT) – item 14.15.
    • Settlement in New Grace Spinal Rehabilitation Center v. City ($15,000, DDOT) – item 14.16.
    • Settlement in Reginald Brooks v. City ($80,000, DDOT) – item 14.17.
    • Settlement in Dorothy Manley v. City ($14,000, Assessor) – item 14.18.
    • Settlement in Sharona Williams v. City ($15,000, DDOT) – item 14.19.
    • Settlement in Medavan LLC v. City ($10,000, DDOT) – item 14.20.
    • Settlement in Timmy Reese v. City ($9,000+, DDOT) – item 14.21.
    • Legal representation for Police Officers Brian Edwards, Christopher Young, Youssef Elzine, Hawk Greer, and Lamont Gibson (items 14.22–14.26).
  • Received and filed: Certification of Rivertown BIZ election (item 14.27).
  • Received and filed: Extension of interim suspensions against Gayanga Company and Brian McKinney (item 14.21).
  • Received and filed: Report on city council appointments to boards and commissions (item 14.29).
  • Removed from agenda: Resolution to schedule interviews for mayoral appointments (item 14.30) – interviews completed.
  • Approved (moved to formal): Resolution continuing Immigration Detroit Task Force (item 14.31).
  • Brought back (in one week): Resolution reauthorizing Youth and Civic Engagement Task Force (item 14.32).

Meeting Transcript

Madam Chair, we have quorum. Thank you so much. And Miss Um Ellis, if you could cut off the public comment and two minutes, that'd be great. Miss Ellis. You could cut off public comment in two minutes. Next on the agenda is our invocation. And I'm just gonna read something that Peter gave me to read to um this morning. So thank you, Peter. Teach us, good Lord, to serve you as you deserve, to give and not to count the cost, to fight and not to heed the wounds, to toil and not to seek for rest, to labor, and not to ask for reward, except that of knowing that we are doing your will. Thank you, Peter. Thank you for that. Hope you all enjoyed that. There um may I have a motion for the approval of the minutes? Motion. Okay. Hearing no objections. That motion is approved. There are no chair remarks. And um, do we have anyone in the audience who was here for public comment in person, Mr. Um Cunningham? If you could take the first microphone, and then the next person, I saw your hand. If you want to sit next to Mr. Cunningham, you can make public comment. Mr. Foster, and happy new year to you both you have two minutes, Mr. Cuttingham. You want to introduce yourself, and you have two minutes. Greetings, everyone. Happy new year. If I ain't told you 313, 444-9114, 313-444-9114. 313, 444, 9114. That number was made so you can remember it. And on Facebook, not enemy Detroit. Again, on Facebook, not enemy Detroit. Click on people. I believe the pictures with me and my mom at Christmas at this time. Thank you for your prayers. My birthday is not until the 26th. I'll be 44. Um, but I've been getting text messages, so that's cool. But it's on the 26th, keep me in prayer. Last night, as always, or this time I was at the Rosa Parks Transit Center at the 444 building on the on the left side. I was parked there. A gentleman said, I'm homeless, I'm hungry, and I need some money. I know him. I knew he has mental problems and doesn't take his medication. Um, but I I gave gave him the money, and I um turned my head to the right, and then he hits me in my eye, and I'm on blood thinners, so blood was just shooting everywhere. I thought I need stitches with so much blood. Um, so I didn't see any police around at all, trying to call the police, waited 30 minutes. Um, but I uh I appreciate those that tried to serve Chief Bettison and just um and I said I'm gonna stop this, giving out these hand warmers, these busted goods.

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