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Renovation Plans Spark Interest in Detroit’s Housing Development

Community members discussing housing development in Detroit

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News Summary

Detroit is gearing up for an important mayoral election as current Mayor Mike Duggan steps aside. A lively forum featuring seven candidates discussed pressing issues such as affordable housing, economic opportunities, and public safety. Key highlights included the need for robust strategies to manage $800 million in COVID-19 relief funds and initiatives for increased affordable housing amidst rising challenges. With the primary election approaching, the candidates aim to connect with residents and outline their visions for Detroit’s future.

Exciting Changes Ahead for Detroit’s Housing Scene!

Detroit is buzzing with energy as the city prepares for a pivotal mayoral election! With current Mayor Mike Duggan opting not to pursue a fourth term, a golden opportunity has emerged for a fresh set of candidates to shape the future of this vibrant city. On April 26, 2025, a dynamic forum took place at Riverside Marina, organized by the African American Leadership Institute. The event drew seven hopefuls eager to share their visions for Detroit’s improvement.

Meet the Candidates

The stage was set for a lively discussion that touched on many pressing issues facing Detroit residents. Candidates included:

Saunteel Jenkins – Former nonprofit CEO
Todd Perkins – Attorney
James Craig – Former police chief
Joel Haashiim – Businessman
Fred Durhal III – City Councilmember
Jonathan Barlow – Entrepreneur
Mary Sheffield – City Council President

Other candidates, such as Rev. Solomon Kinloch, Jr., and Danetta Simpson, were absent yet remain part of the competitive race.

Key Issues on the Table

So, what were the hot topics at this forum? Candidates made it clear that addressing economic opportunities, housing, public safety, and education are at the forefront of their agendas.

A particularly notable concern raised pertained to the challenge of affordable childcare. As families juggle tight budgets, the potential strain of daycare costs can create significant hurdles for working parents. This highlights an immediate need for solutions that not only focus on housing but also support essential services that allow families to thrive.

Funding Matters

The discussion took a deeper dive into how candidates plan to sustain programs funded by the $800 million in COVID-19 relief funds, which are set to expire in 2026. This looming deadline has candidates strategizing ways to secure ongoing support and explore partnerships to enhance existing services. For instance, some candidates are advocating for collaborations with local hospitals to create home repair grant programs, thereby encouraging community investment and lowering repair costs for homeowners.

A Focus on Housing

One of the unifying themes was the urgent need for increased affordable housing. With a high number of homeless individuals in Detroit, candidates see this as a critical issue that requires immediate attention. Several of them have also called for rigorous audits of city finances, aiming to prepare the city for potential funding cuts following the end of federal assistance.

Leadership and Community Connection

The candidates made efforts to personally connect with voters by sharing their individual leadership stories and experiences. This not only showcased their qualifications but also emphasized the importance of strong community relations in fostering trust and engagement. Those stories resonate well with residents who want leaders who truly understand their struggles and aspirations.

The Road Ahead

As the next primary election approaches on August 5, in which the top two candidates will advance to the general election on November 4, anticipation continues to build. Each candidate believes they possess the unique qualities necessary to lead Detroit towards a brighter future.

Throughout the forum, there was a sense of camaraderie among the participants, but also an unmistakable undercurrent of tension regarding financial management and the community’s priorities. The significance of electing a mayor who reflects the predominantly Black population of Detroit was not lost on attendees, and as discussions unfolded, builders and dreamers alike contemplated the future of Detroit.

Change is in the air, and as the mayoral race heats up, Detroiters should keep an ear to the ground. There’s no doubt that the future of housing and community support lies in the hands of these new leaders!