CITY OF DETROIT COMMUNITY BUDGET PRIORITIES Budget...Brenda Jones and Budget, Audit and Finance Committee Chair, Janee’ Ayers . FY 2020-2021 . ... What plans are in place to increase

FY 2020-2021

Presented by Detroit City Council President Brenda Jones and Budget, Audit and Finance Committee Chair, Janee’ Ayers

FY 2020-2021

CITY OF DETROIT COMMUNITY BUDGET PRIORITIES REPORT

pg. 1

On January 1, 2020, Council President Brenda Jones and Council Member Janee’ Ayers released the Second Annual Community Budget Priority Survey to provide City of Detroit residents the opportunity to weigh in on how they would like their tax dollars are spent and how their services are provided. The top resident priorities were determined to be:

• Crime and Safety • Affordable Housing and Home Repair • Jobs, Training and Education • Blight • Clean Streets and Neighborhoods • Small Business Support • Improved Street Lighting

On February 19, 2020, residents were invited to attend a community engagement meeting where they were allowed to review the survey results as well as comment and ask questions relative to the top resident priorities. Residents that were unable to attend were provided the opportunity to respond to the questions online. Residents’ questions and concerns have been compiled in this report.

OVERVIEW

pg. 2

TOP PRIORITY 1: CRIME AND SAFETY

pg. 3

DISTRICT 1-CRIME AND SAFETY

POLICE DEPARTMENT

COMMENTS AND CONCERNS

• District 1 residents would like to see 50 to 100 hundred new police officers. • District 1 residents have stated that there are too many resources invested into

non-uniform Detroit Police Department employees and would like to see more Neighborhood Police Officers patrolling the neighborhoods on foot and in police cars.

• District 1 residents do not support wheel theft and auto larceny as low priority police runs and would like to see response times to auto larceny improved. There are grave concerns with the fact that if you are not severely injured you are not a priority dispatch.

• District 1 residents would like to see police academy graduates reimburse the City of Detroit if they resign from the department within 3 years.

• District 1 residents would like to see enhanced traffic enforcement on Grand River and 6 Mile (McNichols) to address speeding throughout the neighborhood.

• District 1 residents would like to see enhanced traffic and parking enforcement to address double parking on Grand River.

QUESTIONS

1. Does the Detroit Police Department plan to increase the number of officers patrolling within the neighborhoods in District 1?

a. What is the cost to increase officers patrolling neighborhoods in District 1? 2. What is the Detroit Police Department’s plan to address auto larceny prevention

and response times within District 1? 3. What is the Detroit Police Department’s plan to increase traffic enforcement on

Grand River and 6 Mile in District 1? 4. What programs are in place within the Detroit Police Department for youth

engagement? a. How do residents access those programs?

5. What are the Administration’s plans to lobby State Legislators to allow reimbursement for training fees if Detroit Police Academy graduates resign from the Detroit Police Department within determined time frame?

FIRE DEPARTMENT

QUESTIONS

1. Why are EMS contracts service open to for profit businesses?

pg. 4

A. What is the feasibility of bringing EMS services in-house? B. How are EMS contractors held accountable? C. What processes are in place for residents to report service issues with EMS

contractors? I. Has the department received any complaints from residents relative

to EMS contractor services issues? 2. What programs are in place within the Fire Department for youth engagement

within District 1? a. How do District 1 residents access those programs?

DISTRICT 2- CRIME AND SAFETY

POLICE DEPARTMENT


• District 2 residents would like to see more compassionate officers. • District 2 residents would like to see more Detroit Police Department recruits from

Detroit. • District 2 residents would like to see more prevention of the sale of narcotics in the

areas of Chalfonte and Fenkell. • District 2 residents would like to see more Neighborhood Police Officers patrolling

the neighborhoods on foot and in police cars. • District 2 residents would like to see faster response times. • District 2 residents would like to see more police dedicated towards sexual assault

and human trafficking.

QUESTIONS

1. Does the Detroit Police Department plan to increase the number of officers patrolling within the neighborhoods within District 2?

a. What is the cost to increase officers patrolling neighborhoods in District 2? 2. What is the Detroit Police Department’s plan to shorten police response times

within District 2? 3. What is the Detroit Police Department’s plan to increase efforts to prevent the sale

of narcotics in District 2? 4. How many police officers are employed with the Detroit Police Department?

a. How many are Detroiters? 5. How many police officers were budgeted for District 2?

a. How many of those positions are currently vacant? b. How many police officers are budgeted for District 2?

pg. 5

6. What plans are in place to increase officers dedicated towards sexual assault and human trafficking?

FIRE DEPARTMENT


• District 2 residents have expressed concerns with firefighters not being trained to respond to wires down and burning without being certified in high voltage.

QUESTIONS

1. Are firefighters required to be certified in high voltage in order to respond to wires down and burning?

A. If so, how many firefighters are currently certified in high voltage? I. How does the department decide which firefighters are certified?


POLICE DEPARTMENT


• District 3 residents have stated that there is a desire for increased patrolling around schools in the district. Students are afraid to wait at bus stops both before and after school.

• District 3 residents would like to see the implementation of a restorative practices process to enhance engagement and improve relationships between the youth/community and the Police Department.

• District 3 residents would like to see more people of color working as police officers.

• District 3 residents have stated that the police response times and presence within the neighborhoods needs to be improved. When the residents report crimes being committed, the offenders always get away because the response time is too poor.

QUESTIONS

1. What is the Detroit Police Department’s strategy for patrolling the schools within District 3?

a. Does the strategy including patrolling bus stops? 2. What restorative practices are in place to enhance engagement and improve

departmental relationships with the youth and community in District 3? 3. What is the department’s plan to increase people of color working as police officers

throughout the districts?

pg. 6

4. How does the department respond to crimes in progress in District 3? 5. What plans are in place to improve response times in District 3?

a. What are considered high-priority calls in District 3?

FIRE DEPARTMENT


• District 3 residents would like to see the implementation of a restorative practices process to enhance engagement and improve relationships between the youth/community and the Fire Department.

• District 3 residents would like to see more people of color working as firefighters and as EMS responders.

QUESTIONS

1. What restorative practices are in place to enhance engagement and improve departmental relationships with the youth and community in District 3?

2. What is the department’s plan to increase people of color working as firefighters and EMS technicians throughout the districts?


POLICE DEPARTMENT


• District 4 residents have stated that there is a desire for increased patrolling of police officers in patrol cars through the neighborhoods.

• District 4 residents would like to see the department continue monthly meetings at the 5th precinct.

• District 4 resident stated that she was the mother of a victim of sexual assault and has not heard from the prosecutor in four (4) years since the sexual assault.

• District 4 resident stated that they would like see camera at Alter Road and Jefferson to address speeding.

• District 4 residents have stated that they would like to see better code enforcement collaboration with District Managers.

QUESTIONS

1. What is the Detroit Police Department’s strategy for increasing patrol cars in District 4?

a. What is the cost to increase officers patrolling neighborhoods in District 4?

pg. 7

2. How can residents access the 5th precinct more easily with the enhanced security measures at the new precinct?

a. What modifications can occur to the precinct to make the precinct more community friendly?

3. How are officers accommodated to prevent fatigue? 4. Is there a backlog on the processing of rape kits?

a. If so, what are the department’s plans to expand sexual assault operations to meet the demand?

5. What plans are in place for enhanced traffic enforcement at Alter Road and Jefferson?

6. What is the department’s current strategy for coordination with district managers throughout the districts?

7. What laws are in place to address marijuana emissions from a home?

FIRE DEPARTMENT


N/A

QUESTIONS

1. Is there training for fire fighters when dealing with hazardous chemicals? a. Does the department have inspectors?

i. How much is the responsibility of the State? ii. How much is the responsibility of the City?


POLICE DEPARTMENT


• District 5 residents would like to see more Neighborhood Police Officers patrolling the neighborhoods on foot and in police cars.

• District 5 would like to see a decrease or elimination of hold times when calling 911.

• District 5 residents would like more criminal investigations and investigation follow up.

• District 5 residents would like to see the Compstat Meeting held during hours when more people are able to attend and get the information.

• District 5 residents would like to see Neighborhood Police Officers work staggered hours, not just during the day.

pg. 8

QUESTIONS


a. What is the cost to increase officers patrolling neighborhoods in District 5? 2. What are the Detroit Police Department’s shortened 911 hold times?

a. What is the average hold time when a resident calls 911? 3. What is the Detroit Police Department’s plan to increase criminal investigations

and investigation follow up within District 5? 4. How does the department prioritize criminal investigations and patrol deployment

within District 5? 5. What is the feasibility of hosting the Compstat Meeting within the evening to

increase resident engagement? 6. What is the feasibility of implementing staggered Neighborhood Police Officer

scheduled to allow for evening and midnight work hours? 7. How does the department plan to enforce traffic laws to ensure motorist are

obeying one-way street requirements and following all traffic laws in District 5?

FIRE DEPARTMENT


• District 5 residents would like to see more fire hydrants in service.

QUESTIONS

1. How many fire hydrants are there in the City of Detroit? (Please organize response by district)

A. How many are currently out of service? B. What is the plan to repair all out of service fire hydrants?

2. Does the department plan to open additional fire houses throughout the City? (Please organize response by district)


POLICE DEPARTMENT


• District 6 residents would like to see police officers to patrol residential streets rather than patrolling main thorough fares. (i.e. walking in neighborhoods rather than driving only)

pg. 9

• District 6 residents would like to see more community engagement from the Detroit Police Department. (Note: residents appreciate the work and engagement from District 6 Neighborhood Police Officers. Residents would like residents to be aware that they can do ride a longs with officers)

• District 6 residents would like to see officers be able to ride motorcycles. • District 6 residents would like to see the Department be more proactive than

reactive by increasing staffing levels. • District 6 residents feel as though there are a lack of officers deployed throughout

the District. • District 6 residents feel as though they are ignored by the Detroit Police

Department. • District 6 residents feel that there needs to be more funding allocated towards the

hotline number, 224-DOPE. (According to residents, the number is not successful. Residents are not getting a response.)

• District 6 would like to see better lighting to help prevent crimes. • District 6 residents want to see more investment in the 911 line -- too often the line

is busy. • District 6 residents have concerns that police do not respond unless it is a serious

crime. • District 6 residents are under the impression that officers do not respond to minor

crimes nor collect proper evidence for minor crime investigations.

QUESTIONS

1. Does the Detroit Police Department’s plan to increase the number of officers patrolling within the neighborhoods include within District 6?

a. What is the cost to increase officers patrolling neighborhoods in District 6? 2. What is the Department’s crime prevention strategy in District 6?

a. How many officers are assigned to District 6? b. Are police officers deployed to residential streets for patrolling?

3. How does the Department plan to increase presence and community engagement within District 6?

4. Please provide a report on success metrics of the hotline, 224-DOPE. 5. How does the Department prioritize response to calls in District 6?

(911 issues have been addressed in questions Pg.8: District 5-Crime and Safety.)

pg. 10

FIRE DEPARTMENT


• District 6 residents are not in favor of the many private EMS contractors. Residents do not feel as though the “for profit business” structure offers adequate care. Residents would like to see EMS services in-house.

QUESTIONS

N/A

(EMS privatization has been addressed in questions in Pgs. 3-4: District 1: Crime and Safety)


POLICE DEPARTMENT


• District 7 residents have expressed concerns with Police response times. • District 7 residents would like to see increased police presence and engagement. • District 7 residents have reported increases in gunfire throughout the District.

QUESTIONS


a. What is the cost to increase officers patrolling neighborhoods in District 1? 2. What is the department’s crime prevention strategy in District 7? 3. How many officers are assigned to District 7? 4. Are police officers deployed to residential streets for patrolling? 5. How does the department plan to increase presence and community engagement

within District 6? 6. What is being done to combat gang violence in District 7?

FIRE DEPARTMENT

N/A

pg. 11

TOP PRIORITY 2: AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND HOME REPAIR

pg. 12

DISTRICT 1-AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND HOME REPAIR

HOUSING AND REVITALIZATION DEPARTMENT, PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARMENT, DETROIT ECONOMIC GROWTH CORPORATION


• District 1 resident stated that The Corner Development in Corktown was required to be 20% "affordable". According to their leasing office this gives the person pursuing an affordable housing discount $50 a month off rent still leaving them to pay over $ 1,500 a month. $1,500 a month is not affordable for most Detroiters.

• District 1 residents would like to see tax incentives include funds set aside for affordable housing.

• District 1 would like to see more engagement with seniors related to tax abatements.

QUESTIONS

1. What is considered affordable housing within the City of Detroit? a. How is affordable housing measured?

2. What is the feasibility of those receiving tax abatements being required to invest into affordable housing?

3. Why does the City of Detroit not require every developer that comes into the City of Detroit to put money aside for 0% interest loans or senior home repair?

4. What outreach and engagement strategies are in place to inform and engage residents on the services, strategies, and operations related to development within the City of Detroit?

DISTRICT 2- AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND HOME REPAIR



• District 2 residents have an issue that developers that do not receive tax incentives do not have to offer affordable housing.

• District 2 residents would like to see the City of Detroit redirect affordable housing and home repair funding to single family homes rather than multifamily developments.

pg. 13

QUESTIONS

1. Why is every developer that does business within the City of Detroit not required to offer affordable housing?

2. What measures are in place to ensure equal distribution of affordable housing funds throughout single-family and multi-family developments?




• District 3 residents would like to see access to more grant funding for home repair. • District 3 residents would like to see enhanced prioritization of homeless residents

and returning citizen who need housing.

QUESTIONS

1. What measures are in place to access more grant funding for home repair? 2. What is the department’s current strategy to enhance the prioritization of homeless

residents and returning citizens in need of housing?




• District 4 resident feel that code enforcement is raising rents and causing landlords to push tenants out in order to sell in key Strategic Framework Neighborhoods.

• District 4 resident have stated that auctions need to cease for one year in order to concentrate on building better homeownership bases for affordability.

• District 4 resident feels that home repair needs to return to targeted investment (i.e. roofs, post flood, windows.). Resident would like the City of Detroit to refer to the Lansing, Michigan, model for home repair grants.

pg. 14

QUESTIONS

1. Where are the resources and informational centers to increase District 4 residents’ access to affordable housing?

2. What's the maximum amount you can get for home repair? 3. Are there programs for senior’s home repair? 4. What steps are in place to hold predatory lenders accountable for practices that

result in foreclosure? 5. What is the Department’s plan to increase partnerships geared toward increasing

affordable housing partnerships? a. What partnerships are in place to increase affordable housing within the

City of Detroit? 6. Has rental code enforcement had a negative impact on affordable housing options

within the City of Detroit? a. What is the current impact of rental code enforcement on rental rates within

the City of Detroit? 7. Please provide a comparison analysis on the State of Michigan home repair

program and the City of Detroit home repair program.




• District 5 residents would like to see more funding allocated towards home repair grants and loans.

• District 5 residents do not feel as though the housing within District 5 is affordable as the rental and purchase rates continue to increase.

QUESTIONS

1. Why can’t residents select their own qualified contractor for the repairs? 2. Why isn't there a pool of grant money for home repair? There should be a mini-

loan and mini-grant program. 3. What steps are in place to ensure that housing remains affordable within District

5?

pg. 15


HOUSING AND REVITALIZATION DEPARTMENT, PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARMENT, DETROIT ECONOMIC GROWTH CORPORATION, DETROIT WATER AND SEWERAGE DEPARTMENT


• District 6 residents would like the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department to enhance their outreach related to the upkeep, repair and maintenance of old pipes.

o District 6 residents have stated that sewer pipes in alley connections are dropped down and residents are being held accountable for these pipes. Oftentimes the main pipes are the reason that the sewer pipes have issues.

• District 6 residents would like a greater focus on electrical and plumbing repairs. • District 6 residents would like stronger enforcement of laws and policies that

require upkeep with trees and grass. • District 6 residents report that the cement rises when tree roots expand. • District 6 residents would like to redefine the term "affordable housing" within the

City of Detroit so that it reflects actual affordable rates for residents. o District 6 residents report that rent prices are getting out of control, and

having developers offer rates such as 20% AMI is not adequate. • District 6 residents would like to see more funding allocated towards home repair

grants and loans.

QUESTIONS

1. What plans are in place to increase the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department’s outreach and engagement strategies within District 6?

a. How much money is currently budgeted towards outreach and engagement?

b. Are there any additional costs associated with the increase in engagement? 2. What plans are in place to repair sewer pipes in alley connections within the City

of Detroit to prevent issues with residential pipes? a. Have funds been budgeted to address the issue?

i. If not, what is the cost to implement? 3. What plans are in place to increase funding towards electrical and plumbing

repairs? a. What is the cost to increase funding?

4. How can the City of Detroit redefine affordable housing standards and/or definitions to reflect City of Detroit resident’s ability to pay rental rates?

pg. 16


HOUSING AND REVITALIZATION DEPARTMENT, PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARMENT, DETROIT ECONOMIC GROWTH CORPORATION, DETROIT LAND BANK AUTHORITY


• District 7 residents have issue with the length of time it takes to get approval for repair funding due to lengthy waitlist.

• District 7 residents would like to see increased efforts to rehab homes in order to encourage home purchasing so that we are able to sell the homes to Detroit residents.

• District 7 residents would like to see the implementation of an abatement or reimbursement program for those who can afford to fix the houses themselves.

• District 7 residents would like to see the elimination of the Detroit Land Bank Authority.

• District 7 residents would like to see more services added to the home repair program (such as windows and other necessities).

• District 7 residents would like to see more funding towards skilled trades programs to educate homeowners on personal home repairs (workshops).

• District 7 residents would like to see more funding accessed and allocated towards home repair grants.

• District 7 residents would like to see the State Law amended regarding abandoned homes where families are squatting to allow families to receive funding from the City of Detroit to remain in the homes.

QUESTIONS

1. What plans are in place to decrease the home repair grant and loan waitlist? 2. What plans are in place to increase the number of homes rehabbed for sale?

a. What is the cost of increase? i. How can the increase be funded? (i.e., General Fund, Grant Funds)

3. What is the feasibility of the implementation of a reimbursement or abatement program to reimburse residents that repair vacant homes themselves?

4. What is the feasibility of adding more services to the home repair program? a. What is the cost to implement?

5. What is the feasibility of the implementation of a workshop to educate residents on rehabbing their homes themselves?

pg. 17

TOP PRIORITY 3: JOBS, TRAINING AND EDUCATION

pg. 18

DISTRICT 1- JOBS, TRAINING AND EDUCATION

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT, DETROIT EMPLOYMENT SOLUTIONS CORPORATION


• District 1 residents would like to see an improvement in methods to track the process of returning citizens finding employment.

• District 1 residents would like to see the implementation of a program for returning citizens to be mentored by other returning citizens that have underwent the employment process.

• District 1 residents have stated that there is a lack of service-related workers as well as trade -- i.e., servers, bartenders, cooks, and retail workers.

QUESTIONS

1. What processes are in place to track the success metrics of returning citizens obtaining employment following the receipt of Detroit at Work services and support?

2. What is the feasibility of the implementation of a plan or program for returning citizens to be mentored by other returning citizens that have underwent the employment process.

3. What programs are in places to train workers in the hospitality industries -- i.e., servers, bartenders, cooks, and retail workers?


WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT, DETROIT EMPLOYMENT SOLUTIONS CORPORATION, CIVIL RIGHTS, INCLUSION AND OPPURTUNITY


• District 2 residents would like to see free tuition and books for the Wayne County Community College District campuses.

QUESTIONS

1. What plans are in place to increase resident awareness of job training and assistance programs?

a. How much money is budgeted for outreach and engagement related to workforce development?

b. How does the City of Detroit better inform residents of the mobile unit and outreach events?

pg. 19

i. How does the City of Detroit currently inform residents besides social media?

2. What is the current unemployment rate in the City of Detroit?




• District 3 residents would like to see more programs geared toward preparing and encouraging youth to pursue a career in the skilled trades.

• District 3 residents feel as though the City of Detroit needs better Detroit at Work follow up procedures.

• District 3 residents feel as though the City of Detroit needs better Detroit at Work marketing efforts.

QUESTIONS

1. What programs are in place to promote youth in skilled trades within the City of Detroit?

2. What programs are in place to enhance Detroit at Work follow up procedures? a. Are attendees contacted following receiving services to inquire about

employment status or any resulting barriers related to a failure to obtain employment?

b. Are there employees budgeted towards Detroit at Work service recipient up?

i. If so, how many? 1. What is the average rate of follow up? 2. How many service recipients are reached monthly, quarterly,

and annually? a. Based on service recipient follow up, how many

recipients are currently employed following receiving Detroit at Work services?

b. What are the common barriers related to service recipients locating employment?

3. What is the cost of employees budgeted toward service recipient follow up?

4. What is the cost to increase employees budgeted towards service recipient follow up?

ii. If not, how many employees are needed to implement efficient and useful Detroit at Work service recipient follow up?

pg. 20

1. What is the cost to fund the employees? 3. Questions related to marketing and outreach enhanced are addressed on pg. 18

District 2-Jobs, Training and Education.




• District 4 residents would like to see the elimination of drug testing for employment. • District 4 residents would like to see enhanced education related to the impacts of

marijuana consumption on finding employment. • District 4 residents would like to see the implementation of short-term programs

(minimum 6 months) for job training geared towards specific markets. • District 4 residents have prioritized resume writing, hiring etiquette and interview

preparation.

QUESTIONS

1. What programs are in place to address marijuana consumption and its impact on employment?

a. What programs are in place to assist residents with successful drug screening?

2. What is the feasibility of the implementation of short-term programs geared towards employment within specific markets?

a. Are there currently any short-term programs offered by Detroit at Work? i. If so, please list the programs.

b. What is the cost to implement new programs? i. Are there funds available?

3. What programs are in place to assist residents with resume writing, hiring etiquette and interview preparation?


WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT, DETROIT EMPLOYMENT SOLUTIONS CORPORATION, CIVIL RIGHTS, INCLUSION AND OPPURTUNITY


• District 5 residents would like to see more open lines of communication as to where people can go for help and/or resources.

pg. 21

• District 5 seniors have stated a need for job training for supplemental income. Part time jobs and education are needed.

• District 5 would like to see more training for contractors and a unified list of licensed/ registered contractors in the City of Detroit.

QUESTIONS

1. Questions related to marketing and outreach enhanced are addressed on pg. 18 District 2-Jobs, Training and Education.

2. What programs are in place that are geared towards education and training for Senior Citizens within the City of Detroit?

3. What training programs are in place to prepare residents to be City of Detroit contractors through both various service needs of the Office of Contracting and Procurement and on development projects?

4. How are the non-compliance fines being allocated and spent to go back into education, training and preparation for skilled trades and other employment opportunities?




• District 6 would like to see an increase in trade schools throughout the City. • District 6 feels as though schools should prioritize teaching students home

economics and basic life skills. Trade school programs should also be more readily available in schools.

• District 6 wants more hands-on programs for students so they are aware of what workforce development assistance is available.

• District 6 wants more hands-on programs available to residents. • District 6 residents are concerned that people cannot have access to jobs due to

marijuana being legalized. The City of Detroit needs to educate young people that just because it is legal, it does not mean that jobs will not continue to screen for it.

QUESTIONS

1. What plans are in place to increase the number of trade schools throughout the City of Detroit?

2. What current partnerships are in place between the Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation and the Detroit Public Schools Community District to engage, inform and provide students with workforce development assistance?

a. Including, but not limited to, the following:

pg. 22

i. Marketing and Outreach to inform students on programs. ii. Marijuana consumption and its impact on employment. iii. STEM programs.

3. What programs are in place that provide residents with hands-on training? a. What is the feasibility of increasing programs with hands on training?

i. What is the cost to implement?




• District 7 residents would like to see the City of Detroit work in unity with Detroit Public schools for more training and education. There should be an increase in job fairs to reach more schools and youth.

• District 7 would like to see an increase in transportation assistance. • District 7 residents would like to see more district resource locations. • District 7 residents would like to see the reinstatement of specialty and

apprenticeship/vocational programs such as: financial management, automotive trade, business courses, Computer Training/ IT and college tuition planning.

• District 7 residents would like to see the implementation of programs for people with criminal records to find employment.

• A District 7 resident thinks the City of Detroit is doing a great job with workforce development. They see job opportunities posted on all social media forums.

QUESTIONS

1. DESC/DPSCD partnership questions have been addressed on page 21 District 6: Jobs, Training and Education.

2. What programs are in place to provide transportation assistance to residents looking to receive workforce development services?

a. How much money is currently budgeted towards transportation assistance? i. Please provide a breakdown of how transportation dollars are

distributed? ii. During Fiscal Year 2019-2020, was transportation assistance

provided to all residents that received Detroit at Work services and expressed a need for transportation assistance?

1. If not, please provide data to support. 2. If not, what were the reasons that transportation services were

not provided?

pg. 23

a. What are the costs to increase transportation assistance?

3. Are there Detroit at Work locations stationed throughout the districts? a. If so, please list the locations.

4. Does the Detroit Employment Solutions currently provide programs such as: financial management, automotive trade, business courses, Computer Training/ IT and college tuition planning?

a. If so, please list those programs and how residents are able to access those programs.

b. If not, what is the feasibility of the implementation of the programs? i. What is the cost to implement those programs? ii. How can the increase be funded? (i.e., General Fund, Grant Funds)

5. What programs are in place to assist those with criminal records with finding employment?

a. Please provide a list of all employers that hire Detroiters that have criminal records.

pg. 24

TOP PRIORITY 4:

BLIGHT

pg. 25

DISTRICT 1- BLIGHT

DETROIT DEMOLITION DEPARTMENT, PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT, GENERAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT


• A District 1 resident stated that they were not sure of the effectiveness of the current demolition strategy, but it seems as though great progress has been made. They feel that demolition should continue and that the city should seek every dollar available to ensure it continues.

• A District 1 resident would like to see the Mayor's Office and City Council come back together with a plan. Both sides have done great to not have many public differences and blight should not divide them.

• District 1 residents do not want brick homes torn down. • District 1 residents want a home built immediately after one is torn down. • District 1 residents would like to turn Murphy Middle School into assisted living. • District 1 residents’ top priority for maintenance is Greenfield and Brightmoor.

QUESTIONS

1. What is the feasibility of building a new home immediately following demolition? a. What is the cost to implement?

2. What is the feasibility of rehabbing Murphy Middle School into an assisted living facility?

a. What is the cost to rehab? 3. What is the current maintenance and upkeep strategy for vacant homes on

Greenfield and in the Brightmoor Community?

DISTRICT 2- BLIGHT

DETROIT DEMOLITION DEPARTMENT, BUILDINGS SAFETY ENGINEERING AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEPARTMENT


• District 2 residents stated that the current demolition strategy in the area east of Woodward and 7 mile, state fair hasn't been very effective nor for commercial buildings

• District 2 residents stated that homes haven't been knocked down much in the Schoolcraft and Wyoming area where there are many blighted homes that have been standing for over a decade.

pg. 26

• District 2 residents stated that blight remediation hasn’t been spread throughout all District 2 neighborhoods.

• District 2 residents stated that the City of Detroit needs stricter blight enforcement in District 2 to address negligent property owners and slum landlords.

QUESTIONS

1. What plans are in place to increase enforcement related to negligent property owners and landlords within District 2?

a. How many enforcement officers are allocated towards District 2? i. What is the cost of each officer?

DISTRICT 3- BLIGHT

DETROIT DEMOLITION DEPARTMENT, BUILDINGS SAFETY ENGINEERING AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEPARTMENT, GENERAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT


• A District 3 resident reported that the current demolition strategy has not been effective.

• A District 3 resident would like for more of the abandoned homes to be demolished.

QUESTIONS

N/A

DISTRICT 4- BLIGHT

DETROIT DEMOLITION DEPARTMENT, GENERAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, DETROIT LAND BANK AUTHORITY


• District 4 residents feels as though the current blight elimination strategy is great and the City of Detroit has done an excellent job.

• District 4 residents feel as though the current blight elimination strategy has had an immediate good short-term impact, but there needs to be a focus on the preservation of buildings for the future. Blight seems not to be a problem in District 4.

• District 4 residents have confusion over why some houses have been torn down that looked salvageable and others are still up that look like the need to be demolished.

pg. 27

o A resident reported, “In the last four months I have seen two homes being demolished that had excellent structure. The homes were not fire damaged, there was only broken out windows and a trashy yard. However, the ridiculous part to the demolition is that the home next door to me really needs to be torn down and the one that was torn down should have should have been sold, it only needed minor repairs but the house next to me has a partially burnt off roof, is an eyesore and is a hazard for children, animals and the community.”

• District 4 residents would like to see increased efforts to board up and maintain vacant and blighted properties.

QUESTIONS

1. What is the current standard for demolition? a. Are homes that could be salvaged currently demolished?

i. If so, please provide an explanation. b. Why are homes that are in dire need of demolition due to fire damage or

other structural deficiencies not selected for demolition over more salvageable structures?

2. What plans are in place to increase and enhance board up and maintenance of blighted properties?

a. How much money is allocated towards the board up and maintenance of blighted properties throughout the districts?

i. Are funds evenly distributed or allocated based on priority and need? 1. How is board up and maintenance of blighted properties

prioritized throughout the districts?

DISTRICT 5- BLIGHT

DETROIT DEMOLITION DEPARTMENT, BUILDINGS SAFETY ENGINEERING AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEPARTMENT


• District 5 residents would like to see more inspectors for post-demolition and pre-demolition.

• District 5 residents would like more clarity and transparency on how homes for demolition are selected.

• District 5 residents would like to see swift demolition. • District 5 residents stated that the current demolition strategy seems good and that

there are many demolitions occurring. • District 5 residents would like to see more strict code enforcement.

pg. 28

• District 5 residents would like to see the Buildings, Safety, Engineering and Environmental Department operate more efficiently and be easier to work with. They feel the department has conflicting rules and does not communicate well.

QUESTIONS

1. How many inspectors are allocated in the FY 2020-2021 Demolition Department’s budget?

a. How many demolitions will each inspector monitor daily, weekly, and monthly?

b. What is the average amount of time that each inspector spends on a demolition site?

c. What reporting mechanisms are in place for inspectors? d. Is there an increase inspectors from last year’s budget? e. What is the cost of each inspector?

2. What steps are in place to support or enhance current District 4 community interactions with the Buildings, Safety, Engineering and Environmental Department?

3. Code enforcement questions and concerns have been addressed on Pg. 25: District 2-Blight.

DISTRICT 6- BLIGHT

DEMOLITION DEPARTMENT


• District 6 residents have reported that homes are being torn down, but rubble is being left behind from the work being done.

• District 6 residents have reported that when houses are being torn down the ground is too soft and sink holes occur.

• District 6 wants more inspectors on site to ensure violations are not occurring. • District 6 residents want to see more blighted commercial buildings demolished. • District 6 residents want to see more funding to ensure more houses can be taken

down.

QUESTIONS

1. Why are demolition contractors leaving debris after the completion of demolition? a. What processes and procedures are in place to ensure that demolition

contractors are not leaving behind post-demolition debris? 2. Is the Demolition Department aware that sink holes are occurring post demolition?

pg. 29

a. What steps are in place to prevent or eliminate sink holes within neighborhoods?

3. What is the Demolition Department’s strategy for the demolition of commercial properties?

a. How much money is allocated to the demolition of commercial properties? i. How many commercial properties will be demolished with budgeted

funds? ii. How are commercial demolitions prioritized throughout the districts?

4. Demolition Inspector questions and concerns have been addressed on pg. 27: District 5-Blight.

DISTRICT 7- BLIGHT

DEMOLITION DEPARTMENT, HOUSING AND REVITALIZATION DEPARTMENT, DETROIT LAND BANK AUTHORITY


• District 7 residents feel as though the demolition process has not been fair and has not reached all neighborhoods.

• District 7 residents have issue with the cost of demolition increasing from $7,000 to $21,000 and in some cases $40,000.

• District 7 residents have stated that the current blight elimination strategy has not been effective because of high costs of demolish, the change in contracts, the lack of transparency and the dishonesty.

• District 7 residents have stated that demolition is not fair between residential and commercial properties. For example, tear down of the Joe Louis Arena was quick, whereas neighborhood properties are on the back-burner.

• District 7 residents feel that there should be more to prevent blight in neighborhoods.

o District 7 resident stated, “I appreciate the houses being torn down, but what is being done to prevent the house becoming a blight problem? Who is responsible for making sure these homes are offered for sale before they become a nuisance? In my neighborhood there was a home that was recently demolished that I believed could have been saved before demolition if the city had moved more swiftly with the property.”

QUESTIONS

1. Please explain the varying costs of demolition within the City of Detroit. 2. What steps are in place to ensure transparency and integrity related to demolition

in the City of Detroit?

pg. 30

3. Please explain the difference in demolition timeframes between commercial demolition and residential demolition.

4. What steps are in place to prepare and sell homes prior to their becoming blighted?

pg. 31

TOP PRIORITY 5: CLEAN STREETS AND

NEIGHBORHOODS

pg. 32

DISTRICT 1- CLEAN STREETS AND NEIGHBORHOODS

DEPARMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS, BUILDING SAFETY ENGINEERNG AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEPARTMENT


• District 1 residents would like to see stricter enforcement of illegal dumping laws. • District 1 residents have reported that their streets are clean because the relevant

City Departments respond swiftly to complaints. • District residents have reported that trash collection contractors are throwing

garbage cans down after emptying trash which breaks that trash can’s wheels. This causes residents to pay $300 to replace garbage cans.

• District 1 residents have reported that bulk pick up does not get picked up on the scheduled pick up days and would like to see an increase in bulk pick up.

• District 1 residents have reported that the current leaf collection bags are inadequate when it rains. District 1 would like to implement a city sweeper program to collect the leaves.

QUESTIONS

1. What is the Buildings Safety Engineering and Environmental Department’s current illegal dumping enforcement strategy throughout District 1?

a. How many enforcement officers are budgeted towards District 1? i. What is the cost of the enforcement officers?

2. What is the Department of Public Works current process for residents to report poor performance by trash collection contractors?

a. What mechanisms are in place to ensure that trash collection contractors are held accountable for damaging trash containers?

i. How many employees are budgeted towards trash collection contractor oversight throughout the districts?

3. Why are residents required to pay the costs of trash containers damaged by trash collection contractors?

4. Why are bulk pick up dates not honored? 5. What is the feasibility of increasing bulk pick up? 6. How can the City of Detroit enhance the collection of leaves within the

neighborhoods? a. What is the feasibility of implementing a leaf street sweeping program?

pg. 33


DEPARMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS, GENERAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT


• District 2 residents would like to see an increase in bulk pick up and the collection of recycled items.

• District 2 residents have reported that Advanced Disposal does not collect trash every week and the collection of recycled items has not been regular.

• District 2 residents have reported complaints related to overgrown vacant lots. • District 2 residents would like to see increased maintenance of thoroughfares. • District 2 residents would like to see improved collection of leaves.

QUESTIONS

1. Has the department received complaints from District 2 residents relative to Advanced Disposal not collecting trash weekly?

a. How does the department handle trash collection complaints? b. What departmental oversight mechanisms are in place to ensure that

Advanced Disposal is not missing trash pickup dates in District 2 and throughout all districts?

i. How many employees are budgeted towards trash collection contractor oversight?

2. How is the collection of recycled items currently administered throughout the District?

a. How often are items picked up? b. What departmental oversight mechanisms are in place to ensure that

contractors are collecting recycled items on the scheduled dates? c. How are contractors held accountable for the failure to collect recycled

items? 3. Bulk pick up and leaf collection enhancements have been addressed on Pg. 32:

District 1-Clean Streets and Neighborhoods. 4. What is the General Services Department’s current strategy to maintain vacant lots

throughout the districts? 5. What is the General Services and Public Works Department’s strategy to maintain

thoroughfares?

pg. 34


DEPARMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS


• District 3 resident would like for residents to be fined and ticketed when they don’t take care of their homes. (The neighbors that leave their Courville containers out all week should be fined. The neighbors that put bulk trash out at any time of the week should be fined. I know they are supposed to be however it is not being enforced.)

• District 3 resident reported, “It is common that bulk is not picked up along my street on the scheduled day. Once a phone call is made they come and pick it up but why do I have to call when they know when they are supposed to come.”

• District 3 residents have suggested the enhancement of neighborhood beautification by hiring residents to work & maintain their community through a Public Private Partnership.

QUESTIONS

1. Are there plans in place to implement public private partnerships where residents can be hired to enhance beautification efforts within the City of Detroit?

a. If not, what is the feasibility of the implementation of a program? i. What is the cost to implement the program?

2. What enforcement mechanisms are in place to hold residents throughout the districts accountable for leaving bulk pick up and trash containers on the street pass or before pick up dates?

a. How many employees are budgeted to enforce current laws to address property owners that leave out bulk pick up and trash containers on the street pass or before pick up dates?

3. Bulk pick up enhancements have been addressed on Pg. 30: District 1-Clean Streets and Neighborhoods.


DEPARMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS, BUILDING SAFETY ENGINEERING AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEPARTMENT, DETROIT LAND BANK AUTHORITY, GENERAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT


• District 4 residents would like to see mandatory cleaning following block parties --mainly weekend events.

pg. 35

• District 4 residents would like to see property owners be held accountable for the upkeep of their property from the back alley to the curb with a set deadline to fix as well as a disciplinary action taken by a monthly deadline with the threat of not only ticketing but losing their property.

• District 4 residents believe that garbage cans should be inspected every 6 months and exchanged due to damage such as missing wheels and holes in bottom of the trash can, especially if the damage is done due to natural causes and normal wear and tear.

• District 4 residents would like to see “no littering” park signs posted with the fines for littering.

• District 4 wants to see the Detroit Land Bank improve maintenance of their properties.

• District 4 residents reported that lead collection has been working out well for some.

QUESTIONS

1. What is the policy for clean up after block parties? a. How is the policy currently enforced?

i. How many employees are allocated to ensure that there is clean up after block parties?

1. What is the cost of those employees? b. What mechanisms are in place to enhance enforcement?

2. What enforcement mechanisms are in place to ensure that property owners are held accountable for the upkeep of their property from the back alley to the curb?

a. How many employees are allocated to ensure that property owners are maintaining the cleanliness of their properties from back alley to the curb?

i. What is the costs of those employees? b. Is it feasible to set a deadline to fix as well as a disciplinary action taken by

a monthly deadline with the threat of not only ticketing but the loss of property?

3. What properties are the City of Detroit currently responsible to maintain and keep clean?

4. Who is responsible for collecting trash on city streets? a. How many employees are budgeted towards cleaning city streets? b. How can street cleaning be enhanced to ensure clean streets throughout

the districts? 5. Residents have reported that the Buildings Safety Engineering and Environmental

Department has stated that inspectors will begin ticketing residents for having too many trash containers as well as having more than one trash container in front of their home. Many people took containers from demolished and abandoned

pg. 36

properties as they are maintained the surrounding lots without compensation. Also residents collectively put their trash cans on one side of the street so that there is street parking available.

a. Please explain the necessity of this enforcement.




• District 5 residents would like to see an increase in employees budgeted towards the Department of Public Works solid waste hotline to increase call intake and the resolution of resident complaints.

• District 5 residents would like to see the alley potholes and sinkholes repaired. • District 5 residents would like to see other communication mechanisms for seniors

besides the internet. • District 5 residents would like to see the Department of Public Work stabilize street

sweeping dates and times. • District 5 residents would like to see the issuance of blight warnings to owners of

unkempt property.

QUESTIONS

1. How many employees are currently budgeted towards the Department of Public Works solid waste hotline?

a. What is the cost of those employees? b. How many calls are received daily, weekly, and monthly? c. What is the average time frame of complaint resolution? d. How does the Department of Public Works track complaints? e. What is the cost to increase the Department of Public Works solid waste

hotline? 2. What plans are in place to repair alley potholes and sinkholes throughout the

districts? a. What is the cost of repair?

3. How can the department improve communication to senior citizens that are not able to access the internet?

4. Are street sweeping dates and times consistent or changed periodically? a. What are some circumstances that would result in the department missing

a street sweeping date? 5. Negligent properties owner questions and concerns are addressed on Pg. 32:

District 1-Clean Streets and Neighborhoods.

pg. 37




N/A

QUESTIONS

N/A




• District 7 residents would like to see recycle services weekly instead of bi-weekly. • District 7 residents would like to see a recycle center in District 7. • District 7 residents would like to see the information on city website stay current. • District 7 residents have stated that bulk pickup is not occurring on a regular basis. • District 7 resident has stated, “This is another issue the city has done a great job

at. Bulk pick up happens more often which helps keeping the area clean. Trash pickup is finally a success.”

QUESTIONS

1. What is the feasibility of a recycle center in District 7? a. What are the costs of implementation?

2. Are there locations for residents in District 7 to take recycled items? 3. How often is the Department of Public Works website updated? 4. Bulk pick up enhancements have been addressed on Pg. 32: District 1-Clean

Streets and Neighborhoods. 5. Bulk pick up enhancements have been addressed on Pg. 33: District 2-Clean

Streets and Neighborhoods.

pg. 38

TOP PRIORITY 6: SMALL BUSINESS SUPPORT

pg. 39

CITY WIDE- SMALL BUSINESS SUPPORT

HOUSING AND REVITALIZATION, DETROIT ECONOMIC GROWTH CORPORATION, OFFICE OF CONTRACTING AND PROCUREMENT, DETROIT EMPLOYMENT SOLUTIONS CORPORATION


Small Business Support responses were similar across the 7 districts and thus have been combined and not separated by district.

• Two residents reporting receiving Motor City Match funds. o One resident is looking to expand and grow to another location.

• One resident was denied Motor City Match funding. • 50% of residents throughout the districts were aware and have attended Small

Business Empowerment Fairs and/or a Supply Schedule Outreach. However there are residents that did not attend due to lack of awareness.

• 30% of residents were not aware of Motor City Match and/or Motor City restore. • Most residents are at the initial planning phase of small business development. • The main small business barrier throughout the districts is access to capital. • Another barrier reported was access to advertisement support to increase

awareness. • Another reported barrier was the ability to find reliable qualified employees. • Most residents are not aware of how to bid or find employment on contracts. • Residents that have attempted to bid on city contracts have reported insurance

requirements eliminate small businesses from being able to access procurement opportunities.

QUESTIONS

1. What measures are in place to enhance marketing and outreach mechanisms to ensure that residents are informed and aware of Motor City Match and Motor City Restore?

a. What are the costs to enhance marketing efforts? 2. What measures are in place to enhance marketing and outreach mechanisms to

ensure that residents are informed and aware of Supply Schedule Outreaches and Small Business Empowerment Fairs?

a. What are the costs to enhance marketing efforts? 3. What measures are in place to enhance marketing and outreach mechanisms to

ensure that residents are informed and aware of contracting opportunities within the City of Detroit?

a. What are the costs to enhance marketing efforts?

pg. 40

4. What is the Office of Contracting and Procurement’s plan to eliminate or amend insurance requirements throughout all services that prevent small businesses from bidding on or winning City of Detroit contracts?

5. What is the City of Detroit’s plan to locate additional funding for small business support? (i.e., grant expansion, leverage of private funds).

6. What is the Detroit Employment Solution Corporation’s plan to match small businesses with reliable and qualified employees?

pg. 41

TOP PRIORITY 7: Improved Street Lighting

pg. 42

CITY WIDE- IMPROVED STREET LIGHTING

PUBLIC LIGHTING DEPARTMENT, PUBLIC LIGHTING AUTHORITY


Improved Street Lighting responses were similar across the 7 districts and thus have been combined and not separated by district.

• Residents throughout the districts have mixed responses to lighting. Some have reported that lighting in throughout the district is adequate, has improved and that residents feel safer with the current lighting plan. Others state that the current lighting plan is inadequate due to the lack of illumination, lighting around schools and bus stops and some streets and areas being completely dark while others are bright.

QUESTIONS

1. Many residents have consistently reported that the current lighting within the City of Detroit is inadequate, what are the plans to reassess lighting within the City of Detroit?

a. Is there funding to add lighting in high crime areas and areas where there are schools and bus stops?

Documents

CITY OF DETROIT COMMUNITY BUDGET PRIORITIES Budget...Brenda Jones and Budget, Audit and Finance Committee Chair, Janee’ Ayers . FY 2020-2021 . ... What plans are in place to increase