Local government in Detroit includes dozens of departments, boards, commissions, committees, public authorities, and other agencies. Understanding their unique roles and responsibilities is essential to navigate your local government and identify exactly which public officials are best suited to address your questions and concerns.
Click on the directory below for summaries of the departments of Detroit’s local government, including an overviews of department responsibilities, listings of their current leadership, and links to submit public comments.
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Executive Departments include the Mayor's Office and departments within the Detroit City Government that report directly to the Mayor's Office. Executive Departments are typically led by directors who are appointed by the Mayor.
Description: The Mayor serves as Chief Executive Officer for City government in Detroit and oversees the City’s executive departments. The Mayor’s Office includes the Mayor’s executive staff, which is responsible for oversight of the City’s day-to-day operations, special projects, community engagement, and implementation of the Mayor’s key initiatives.
Leadership: The Mayor's Office is led by Mayor Mike Duggan
Comments: Send your comments to Mayor Duggan HERE.
Public Meetings: The Mayor hosts the annual State of the City address as well as eight Charter-mandated community meetings each year, including one citywide meeting and one meeting in each Council district.
Legal Authority: Article 5 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter.
Updated: 4/22/2023
Description: The Airport Department is responsible for the Coleman A. Young International Airport, a general aviation airport that operates 2 runways, 2 terminals, 14 large hangars, and 129 small hangars, and manages approximately 75,000 take-offs and landings annually.
Leadership: The Airport Department is led by General Manager Jason Watt.
Legal Authority: The Airport Department operates under the legal authority of Chapter 7 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/8/2023
Description: The Detroit Police Department (DPD) is responsible for policing in Detroit through deployment of its 2,200 officers in 12 precincts, as well as operation of multiple special public safety programs such as Neighborhood Policing, Cease Fire, Project Green Light, and the Real Time Crime Center.
Leadership: DPD is currently led by Chief of Police James E. White.
Legal Authority: Article 7, Chapter 8 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Chapter 26 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/8/2023
Description: The Detroit Fire Department (DFD) is responsible for fire response and emergency medical services, as well as fire prevention and code compliance, arson investigation, and fire safety community relations. The DFD operates 46 firehouses, as well as the Curtis Randolph fire boat.
Leadership: DFD is currently led by Interim Fire Commissioner Charles Sims.
Legal Authority: Article 7, Chapter 5 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Chapter 18 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/8/2023
Description: Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HSEM) coordinates with local, regional, state, federal, and private-sector agencies to protect the community from natural and human-made emergencies and disasters through prevention, protection, mitigation, response, and recovery. HSEM develops comprehensive emergency response plans, manages the City’s emergency operations center and mass notification system to alert the public of emergencies, and prepares continuity of operations and redundancy plans to ensure City Departments continue to conduct essential functions during emergencies.
Leadership: HSEM is currently led by Director Lawrence Meyer.
Legal Authority: Chapter 14 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/8/2023
Description: The Planning and Development Department (PDD) is responsible for a variety of land use planning activities, including proposing amendments to the City’s master plan and zoning ordinance, management of the City’s community benefits program, design and planning for the City’s commercial corridors, residential neighborhoods, and public spaces, and management of the City’s surplus real estate holdings.
Leadership: PDD is currently led by Director Antoine Bryant.
Public Meetings: PDD hosts periodic community meetings regarding specific neighborhood planning initiatives and projects subject to the City's community benefits ordinance. PDD also hosts public hearings regarding waivers or adjustments of the City's sign regulations.
Legal Authority: Article 6, Chapter 2 and Article 8, Chapter 1 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Chapter 50 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/8/2023
Description: The Buildings, Safety Engineering, and Environmental Department (BSEED) is responsible for administration and enforcement of the City’s zoning, construction, property maintenance, and rental property codes, including management of site plan review, construction inspections and permitting, as well as oversight of environmental compliance. BSEED also operates the City’s business licensing center.
Leadership: BSEED is currently led by Director Dave Bell.
Public Meetings: BSEED hosts Special Land Use (SLU) public hearings regarding petitions for zoning approval of conditional land uses.
Reporting on BSEED's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: BSEED operates under the legal authority of Article 6, Chapter 5 of the 2012 Detroit City Code and Chapters 4, 8, 28, and 50 (among others) of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/8/2023
Description: The Demolition Department was established in 2020 and is responsible for managing the City’s demolition of blighted residential and commercial properties, including emergency demolitions of structures that are structurally unsound, dangerous or pose an imminent threat to the health and safety of the surrounding community, as well as demolitions and rehabilitations funded through the issuance of “Proposal N” bonds.
Leadership: The Demolition Department is currently led by Director LaJuan Counts.
Legal Authority: Chapter 8, Article 15 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/8/2023
Description: The Department of Public Works (DPW) is responsible for sanitation and maintenance of the City’s public infrastructure, including residential solid waste and recycling collection, snow and ice removal, design and construction of public streets, and traffic control.
Leadership: DPW is currently led by Director Ron Brundidge.
Public Meetings: DPW hosts occasional public meetings regarding specific significant streetscape construction projects.
Reporting on DPW's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: Article 7, Chapter 4 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Chapters 42 and 43 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/8/2023
Description: The General Services Department (GSD) is responsible for maintenance of the City’s properties and other assets, including maintenance of City-owned buildings and vacant lots, graffiti removal, landscaping and forestry services, and vehicle maintenance. GSD divisions include the City’s Parks and Recreation Department and the Office of Sustainability.
Leadership: GSD is currently led by Deputy Director Crystal Perkins.
Updated: 3/8/2023
Description: The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) is responsible for providing drinking water to Detroit residents and manages the City’s sewerage and stormwater systems, including maintenance of more than 2,700 miles of water main and nearly 3,000 miles of sewer collection piping within Detroit.
Leadership: DWSD is currently led by Director Gary Brown.
Public Meetings: DWSD generally does not host regular public meetings. However, related public meetings are hosted by the Board of Water Commissioners.
Reporting on DWSD's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: Article 7, Chapter 12 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Chapter 48 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/8/2023
Description: The Public Lighting Department (PLD) is the predecessor to the Public Lighting Authority. Active management of the City’s public lighting operations has been transferred to the Public Lighting Authority; however, PLD retains control of certain portions of the City’s public lighting infrastructure.
Leadership: PLD is currently led by Director John Prymack.
Legal Authority: PLD operates under the legal authority of Article 7, Chapter 9 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter.
Updated: 3/8/2022
Description: The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) is the largest public transit provider in Michigan and serves the City of Detroit and neighboring cities. DDOT operates over 300 buses along approximately 50 routes and serves more than 85,000 passengers daily.
Leadership: DDOT is currently led by Executive Director of Transit C. Mikel Oglesby.
Public Meetings: DDOT hosts monthly community meetings regarding general transit-related issues. DDOT also hosts quarterly meetings of its Local Advisory Committee (LAC) to discuss issues related to ADA compliance and handicap accessibility.
Reporting on DDOT's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: DDOT operates under the legal authority of Article 7, Chapter 11 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter.
Updated: 3/2/2022
Description: The Municipal Parking Department (MPD) is responsible for enforcement of the City’s parking ordinances and operates the City’s public parking facilities, including over 2,200 metered parking spaces and multiple parking garages and surface lots.
Leadership: MPD is currently led by Director Keith Hutchings.
Legal Authority: MPD operates under the legal authority of Chapter 46 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/8/2022
Description: The Health Department provides public health services to residents in partnership with neighborhoods and community members, to protect and promote their health, well-being, safety and resilience, and to respond to public health needs as they may arise, including response to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Specific programs focus on: food safety, maternal and reproductive health, pediatric health including immunizations and lead safety, animal care and control, and environmental health and safety. DHD also manages the City’s Municipal ID program.
Leadership: The Health Department is currently led by Chief Public Health Officer Denise Fair Razo.
Legal Authority: The Health Department operates under the legal authority of Article 7, Chapter 2 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Chapter 20 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated 3/8/2022
Description: The Housing and Revitalization Department (HRD) is responsible for the City’s housing and community development activities, including management of federal housing and community development funding, establishment of local housing policy, and maintenance and creation of affordable, mixed-income, and mixed-use housing opportunities.
Leadership: HRD is currently led by acting Director Julie Schneider.
Public Meetings: HRD hosts occasional community outreach meetings regarding various housing-related projects and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) opportunities.
Legal Authority: HRD operates under the legal authority of the City of Detroit Emergency Manager Order No. 38 (Sept. 25, 2014) and Chapter 22 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated 3/8/2022
Description: Currently a division of the General Services Department, the Parks and Recreation Department (PRD) is responsible for operating and maintaining more than 300 parks, playfields, playgrounds, and recreation centers, as well as youth athletic leagues and public golf courses.
Leadership: PRD is currently led by GSD Deputy Director Crystal Perkins.
Public Meetings: PRD hosts occasional community meetings regarding its recreational programming, parks renovations, and various special projects.
Legal Authority: PRD operates under the legal authority of Article 7, Chapter 10 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Chapter 33 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated 3/8/2022
Description: The Department of Neighborhoods (DON) serves as the primary liaison between the City government and block clubs, community groups, business owners, faith and school leaders, and individual residents in order to facilitate community engagement in neighborhoods across the City.
Leadership:
The Department of Neighborhoods is led by Director Raymond Solomon II, as well as the following District Managers:
District 1: Karla Williamson (Manager) and Steele Hughes (Deputy Manager)
District 2: Kim Tandy (Manager) and Sean Davis (Deputy Manager)
District 3: Kayana Sessoms (Manager) and Kenzie Current (Deputy Manager)
District 4: Caprice Jackson (Manager) and Eboni Deberry (Deputy Manager)
District 5: Joshua Roberson (Manager) and Keith Butler (Deputy Manager)
District 6: Eva Torres (Manager) and Antonio Mora-Mills (Deputy Manager)
District 7: Mona Ali (Manager) and Alexia Davis (Deputy Manager)
Public Meetings: District Managers host regular community meetings to address various issues of interest to residents in their respective districts.
Updated: 3/8/2023
Description: The Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO) serves as the centralized financial management office for Detroit’s city government. The OCFO includes divisions for property tax assessments, budget, treasury, financial planning, contracting and procurement, and development and grants, as well as departmental financial services, accounting, and risk management.
Leadership: The OCFO is currently led by Chief Financial Officer Jay B. Rising.
Legal Authority: The OCFO operates under the legal authority of Article 6, Chapter 3, Article 8, Chapters 2-6, and Article 9, Chapter 7 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and multiple chapters, including Chapters 17, 24, and 44 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/23/2023
Description: The Civil Rights, Inclusion, and Opportunity Department (CRIO), formerly known as the Human Rights Department, investigates discrimination complaints in the areas of employment, housing, education, public service, commercial space, medical care facilities and public accommodations, as well as complaints of workplace violence. CRIO also monitors large construction project compliance, certifies Detroit businesses, and mediates civil rights complaints.
Leadership: CRIO is currently led by Director Anthony Zander.
Legal Authority: CRIO operates under the legal authority of Article 7, Chapter 7 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Chapter 23 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated 3/8/2023
Description: The Department of Innovation and Technology (DOIT) provides technology and communications support for the City’s various government departments. DOIT also maintains the City’s website and Improve Detroit app, as well as technologies to enable government agencies to communicate directly with residents.
Leadership: DOIT is currently led by Chief Information Officer Art Thompson.
Public Meetings: DOIT hosts community meetings to promote digital access and inclusion through its Connect313 Initiative.
Updated: 3/8/2023
Description: The Media Services Department is responsible for producing public service announcements and other content about Detroit through a variety of television, social media, web and print media. The Media Services Department also manages permits for film productions and other special events in Detroit.
Leadership: Media Services is currently led by Director Linda Vinyard.
Updated 3/8/2023
Description: The Human Resources Department is responsible for identifying job opportunities with the City government, hiring and training new employees, and administering the City’s various human resources policies.
Leadership: Human Resources is currently led by Director Denise Starr.
Legal Authority: Human Resources operates under the legal authority of Article 6, Chapter 4 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Chapter 35 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/8/2023
Independent Departments are departments within the Detroit City Government that do not report directly to the Mayor's Office, the City Council, or any other single higher authority. Independent Departments are typically led by individual who are either appointed by the Mayor, subject to confirmation by the City Council, or are independently elected.
Description: The City Clerk is an independently elected official who is responsible for keeping records of all City Council proceedings, including its ordinances and resolutions, maintaining the City Code, providing notice of formal meetings and hearings, and certifying official records under the City’s seal. The City Clerk is also the City’s Chief Elections Officer and supervises the registration of voters and the administration of elections in Detroit.
Leadership: The current City Clerk is Janice Winfrey.
Legal Authority: The Office of the City Clerk operates under the legal authority of Article 3.5 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter.
Updated: 3/2/2022
Description: The Elections Department is responsible for maintaining the roll of registered voters in Detroit and administering federal, state, and local elections in Detroit, including the operation of polling locations, as well as the hiring and training of poll workers for each election.
Leadership: The Elections Department is currently led by Director Gina Avery-Walker.
Public Meetings: The Elections Department hosts a public meeting prior to each election date in order to perform public accuracy demonstrations of its ballot tabulation equipment.
Legal Authority: The Elections Department operates under the legal authority of Article 3 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Chapter 13 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 7/11/2022
Description: The Office of the Auditor General (OAG) conducts independent audits, investigations, and evaluations of City departments and prepares written reports to provide audit findings and recommendations to the City Council, the Mayor and the management of each department.
Leadership: The current Auditor General is Mark Lockridge.
Legal Authority: The OAG operates under the legal authority of Article 7.5, Chapter 1 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter.
Updated: 3/2/2022
Description: The Law Department provides legal counsel to the City government, including the Mayor’s Office, the City Council, and all departments, boards, commissions, and other offices. The Law Department is led by the City’s Corporation Counsel and includes divisions focusing on litigation, contracts and other transactions, property and economic development, municipal law, and labor law. The Law Department also manages responses to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests.
Leadership: The Law Department is currently led by Corporation Counsel Conrad L. Mallett, Jr.
Legal Authority: The Law Department operates under the legal authority of Article 7.5, Chapter 2 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter.
Updated: 7/5/2022
Description: The Department of Appeals and Hearings (DAH) administers hearings arising from "quality of life" violations aimed at ensuring that property in Detroit is maintained free of blight, including certain violations of the City’s zoning, property maintenance, and environmental control ordinances. DAH also hears appeals of certain administrative decisions made by other City departments.
Leadership: DAH is currently led by Executive Director Miriam Blanks-Smart.
Legal Authority: DAH operates under the legal authority of Chapter 3 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/2/2022
Description: The Office of Inspector General (OIG) investigates waste, fraud, abuse, and corruption in City government, including its departments, employees, contractors and those seeking to do business with the City.
Leadership: The current Inspector General is Ellen Ha.
Legal Authority: The OIG operates under the legal authority of Article 7.5, Chapter 3 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter.
Updated: 3/2/2022
Description: The Office of the Ombudsman provides independent oversight of the City government by investigating complaints from the public regarding the operations of City departments and employees. If systemic failures are identified, the Ombudsman develops policy and operational reforms and advocates for improved public services.
Leadership: The current Ombudsman is Bruce Simpson.
Public Meetings: The Ombudsman generally does not host public meetings. However, the public can submit complaints regarding City government activities via webform.
Legal Authority: The OIG operates under the legal authority of Article 7.5, Chapter 4 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter.
Updated: 3/2/2022
Legislative agencies include the City Council, as well as its standing committees special task forces. Members of the City Council are independently elected. Committees and task forces are led by individual Council members, as selected by the whole body.
Description: The Detroit City Council serves as the legislative governing body for Detroit’s city government. The City Council’s legislative functions include the consideration of ordinances, resolutions, contracts, and sales of property, well as oversight of departmental budgets, operations, and other administrative matters.
Leadership: The City Council has nine independently elected members, including 7 members who represent specific districts around the city, and 2 members who serve at-large. Current Council Members are:
- Mary Sheffield (District 5) - Council President
- James Tate (District 1) - Council President Pro Tem
- Mary Waters (At Large)
- Coleman A. Young II (At Large)
- Angela Whitfield-Calloway (District 2)
- Scott Benson (District 3)
- Latisha Johnson (District 4)
- Gabriela Santiago-Romero (District 6)
- Fred Durhal III (District 7)
Public Meetings: The City Council hosts weekly formal sessions to conduct its regular business. The City Council also hosts monthly evening community meetings.
Reporting on the City Council's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The City Council operates under the legal authority of Article 4, Chapter 1 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Chapter 2, Article III of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/2/2022
Description: The Council Public Health and Safety (PHS) Committee oversees the Police Department, the Fire Department, Homeland Security and Emergency Management, the Health Department, the Detroit Wayne County Health Authority, the Buildings, Safety Engineering, and Environmental Department, the Department of Public Works, the Public Lighting Authority, the Greater Detroit Resources Recovery Authority, the Water and Sewerage Department, the Department of Transportation, the Airport Department, the Municipal Parking Department, the People Mover, the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments, and the Department of Appeals and Hearings.
Leadership: Current members of the Council PHS Committee are:
- Gabriela Santiago-Romero (District 6) - Chairperson
- Scott Benson (District 3) - Vice Chairperson
- Mary Waters (At Large)
- Mary Sheffield (District 5) - Ex Officio
Public Meetings: The Council PHS Committee hosts public meetings to conduct its regular business on a weekly basis while the Council is in session.
Reporting on the Council PHS Committee's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The PHS Committee operates under the legal authority of Section 4-106 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Section 9 of the Council’s Rules of Order.
Updated: 3/2/2022
Description: The Council Internal Operations (IOS) Committee oversees the Mayor’s Office, the City Council, the Office of the City Clerk, the Elections Commission, all Council-appointed boards and commissions, the Board of Ethics, 36th District Court, the Law Department, the Human Resources Department, the Board of Review, the City’s Pension and Retirement Systems, the Civil Rights, Inclusion and Opportunity Department, the General Services Department, the Department of Innovation and Technology, and the Detroit Wayne Joint Building Authority.
Leadership: Current members of the Council IOS Committee are:
- Latisha Johnson (District 4) - Chairperson
- Mary Waters (At Large) - Vice Chairperson
- Angela Whitfield-Calloway (District 2)
- Mary Sheffield (District 5) - Ex Officio
Public Meetings: The Council IOS Committee hosts public meetings to conduct its regular business on a weekly basis while the Council is in session.
Legal Authority: The Council IOS Committee operates under the legal authority of Section 4-106 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Section 9 of the Council’s Rules of Order.
Updated: 3/2/2022
Description: The Council Budget, Finance, and Audit (BFA) Committee oversees the City’s budget, and property and income taxes, as well as the Office of the Auditor General, the Financial Review Board, and the Office of the Chief Financial Officer, including its finance, budget, property assessment, and grants management divisions.
Leadership: Current members of the Council BFA Committee are:
- Fred Durhal III (District 7) - Chairperson
- Coleman A. Young II (At Large) - Vice Chairperson
- Gabriela Santiago-Romero (District 6)
- Mary Sheffield (District 5) - Ex Officio
Public Meetings: The Council BFA Committee hosts public meetings to conduct its regular business on a weekly basis while the Council is in session.
Legal Authority: The Council BFA Committee operates under the legal authority of Section 4-106 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Section 9 of the Council’s Rules of Order.
Updated: 3/2/2022
Description: The Council Planning and Economic Development (PED) Committee oversees matters related to zoning, workforce development, empowerment zones, business licensing, and consumer protection, as well as the Planning and Development Department, the Housing and Revitalization Department, the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, the Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation, the Economic Development Corporation, the Downtown Development Authority, the Land bank Authority, the Detroit Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, the Detroit Wayne County Port Authority, the Detroit Regional Convention Authority, the Local Development Finance Authority, the Detroit Building Authority, and the Detroit Wayne County Stadium Authority.
Leadership: Current members of the Council PED Committee are:
- James Tate (District 1) - Chairperson
- Fred Durhall III (District 7) - Vice Chairperson
- Latisha Johnson (District 4)
- Mary Sheffield (District 5) - Ex Officio
Public Meetings: The Council PED Committee hosts public meetings to conduct its regular business on a weekly basis while the Council is in session.
Legal Authority: The Council PED Committee operates under the legal authority of Section 4-106 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Section 9 of the Council’s Rules of Order.
Updated: 3/2/2022
Description: The Council Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) Committee oversees matters related to arts and cultural affairs, libraries, museums, parks and recreation, historic preservation, youth and senior services, homeless services, and the neighborhoods, as well as the Detroit Zoo, General Services Department, the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, Eastern Market, and Belle Isle.
Leadership: Current members of the Council NCS Committee are:
- Coleman A. Young II (At Large) - Chairperson
- Angela Whitfield-Calloway (District 2) - Vice Chairperson
- Scott Benson (District 3)
- Mary Sheffield (District 5) - Ex Officio
Public Meetings: The Council NCS Committee hosts public meetings to conduct its regular business on a weekly basis while the Council is in session.
Legal Authority: The Council NCS Committee operates under the legal authority of Section 4-106 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Section 9 of the Council’s Rules of Order.
Updated: 3/2/2022
Description: The Council Rules Committee oversees the rules of procedure for the City Council and its committees.
Leadership: Current members of the Council Rules Committee are:
- Angela Whitfield-Calloway (District 2) - Chairperson
- James Tate (District 1) - Vice Chairperson
- Coleman A. Young II (At Large)
- Mary Sheffield (District 5) - Ex Officio
Public Meetings: The Council Rules Committee hosts occasional public meetings regarding revisions to the Council's rules of procedure.
Legal Authority: The Rules Committee operates under the legal authority of Section 4-106 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Section 9 of the Council’s Rules of Order.
Updated: 3/2/2022
Description: The Council Airport Task Force supports the revitalization of the Coleman A. Young municipal airport and the surrounding community through improvements to existing aviation, educational opportunities, and economic development projects.
Leadership: The Council Airport Task Force is currently led by Council Member Scott Benson.
Public Meetings: The Council Airport Task Force hosts monthly community meetings regarding issues related to the Coleman A. Young municipal airport.
Updated: 3/2/2022
Description: The Council Belle Isle Task Force supports the use and revitalization of Belle Isle Park.
Leadership: The Council Belle Isle Task Force is currently led by Council Member Latisha Johnson.
Public Meetings: The Council Belle Isle Task Force hosts occasional community meetings regarding issues related to Belle Isle.
Updated: 3/2/2022
Description: The Council Green Task Force supports green jobs, improves environmental policy, and builds a more sustainable city in Detroit, with particular focus on issues such as water conservation, renewable energy, recycling, composting, waste reduction, and climate action.
Leadership: The Council Green Task Force is currently led by Council Member Scott Benson.
Public Meetings: The Council Green Task Force hosts monthly community meetings regarding issues related to the environment and sustainability.
Updated: 3/2/2022
Description: The Council Immigration Task Force supports immigrant communities in Detroit, as well as the creation of a more diverse, inclusive, and global city.
Leadership: The Council Immigration Task Force is currently led by Council Member Gabriela Santiago-Romero.
Public Meetings: The Council Immigration Task Force hosts occasional community meetings regarding immigration and issues of concern to the immigrant community.
Updated: 3/2/2022
Description: The Council Task Force on Black Male Engagement provides information and resources to support the engagement and development of black males in multiple ways, including cultural awareness, community service, family responsibility, health and disease prevention, character building, career preparation, education advancement, and financial literacy.
Leadership: The Council Task Force on Black Male Engagement is currently led by Council Member James Tate.
Public Meetings: The Council Task Force on Black Male Engagement hosts occasional community meetings regarding issues of concern to the black male community.
Updated: 3/2/2022
Boards and Commissions are semi-autonomous agencies within the Detroit City Government that are established in the City Charter or City Code. Boards and Commissions are typically led by a body of private individuals who have been appointed to their positions, either by the Mayor or the City Council, for a limited term. Each Board of Commission is authorized to perform a specific scope of work - usually to conduct public hearings, oversee executive or independent departments, or advise the Detroit City Government regarding certain subject matters.
Description: The Board of Police Commissioners (BOPC) provides civilian oversight of the Detroit Police Department through review of DPD policies and investigations of complaints against Police Department personnel.
Leadership: The BOPC has 11 members. 7 members are independently elected and 4 members are appointed by the Mayor, subject to confirmation by the City Council. Current BOPC members are:
- QuanTez Pressley (At Large) - Chairperson
- Rev. Jim Holley (At Large) - Vice Chairperson
- Annie Holt (At Large)
- Jesus M. Hernandez (At Large)
- [Vacant] (District 1)
- Linda Bernard (District 2)
- Cedric Banks (District 3)
- Willie E. Bell (District 4)
- Willie Burton (District 5)
- Lisa Carter (District 6)
- Ricardo Moore (District 7)
Public Meetings: The BOPC hosts weekly public meetings to conduct its regular business. In general, one meeting each month focuses on issues of concern to the community.
Reporting on the BOPC's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The BOPC operates under the legal authority of Article 7, Chapter 8 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter.
Updated: 7/31/2023
Description: The Mayor’s Workforce Development Board oversees federally-funded workforce development efforts in Detroit. The Board provides career training and opportunities to enter targeted industries, including construction, healthcare, information technology, manufacturing, and retail hospitality & entertainment. Specific initiatives include the Detroit at Work career training programs, work centers for returning citizens, and Grow Detroit’s Young Talent summer job placement for young adults.
Leadership: The Mayor's Workforce Development Board has 42 members. Each member is appointed by the Mayor. Half of all members must be local employers, and 1 member must be a City Council Member, who serves ex officio. The Board is currently led by Co-Chairs Cindy Pasky and Dave Meador.
Public Meetings: The Mayor's Workforce Development Board hosts quarterly public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Updated: 3/3/2022
Description: The City Planning Commission (CPC) serves as Detroit’s zoning commission under the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act (PA 110 of 2006) and is responsible for making recommendations to the City Council regarding proposals to amend the City’s zoning ordinance. The CPC also makes recommendations to the City Council regarding Detroit’s Five-Year Capital Agenda, Master Plan of Policies, and other proposals for the regulation of land use and development.
Leadership: The CPC has 9 members. Each member is appointed by the City Council. Current CPC members are:
- Lauren Hood (At Large) - Chairperson
- Donovan Smith (District 2) - Vice Chairperson
- Brenda Goss Andrews (At Large)
- Frederick E. Russell, Jr. (District 1)
- Kenneth Daniels (District 3)
- Ritchie Harrison (District 4)
- Damion Ellis (District 5)
- David Esparza (District 6)
- Gwen Lewis (District 7)
Public Meetings: The CPC hosts bi-weekly public meetings to conduct its regular business. The CPC may meet more frequently, depending on its volume of work.
Reporting on the CPC's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The CPC operates under the legal authority of Article 4, Chapter 3 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Chapter 50 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/3/2022
Description: The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) considers petitions for special consideration under the City’s zoning ordinance, including variances of specific dimensional requirements and standards, waivers of spacing restrictions, appeals of decisions by other City departments as part of their administration of the zoning ordinance, and petitions for relief of economic hardship imposed by the zoning ordinance, among other zoning-related matters.
Leadership: The BZA has 7 members. Each member is appointed by the City Council. Current BZA members are:
- Robert E. Thomas (District 5) - Chairperson
- Debra T. Walker (District 6) - Vice Chairperson
- Robert G. Weed (District 1)
- Vivian Teague (District 2)
- Elois Moore (District 3)
- Michelle L. West (District 4)
- Anthony Sherman (District 7)
Public Meetings: The BZA hosts bi-weekly public meetings to conduct its regular business. The BZA may meet more frequently, depending on its volume of work.
Reporting on the BZA's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The BZA operates under the legal authority of Article 4, Chapter 2 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Chapter 50 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/3/2022
Description: The Historic District Commission (HDC) is responsible for ensuring the preservation of historically and culturally significant districts in Detroit. The HDC has authority to review and decide upon all exterior changes to any building or structure within a designated historic district.
Leadership: The HDC has 7 members. Each member is appointed by the Mayor, subject to confirmation by the City Council. Current HDC members are:
- Tiffany Franklin - Chairperson
- James Hamilton
- Richard Hosey
- Brandon Lockhart
- Dennis Miriani
Public Meetings: The HDC hosts monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business. The HDC may meet more frequently, depending on its volume of work.
Reporting on the HDC's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The HDC operates under the legal authority of Article 9, Chapter 5 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Chapter 21, Article II of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/31/2022
Description: The Historic Designation Advisory Board (HDAB) reviews the historical and cultural significance of buildings, structures, and neighborhoods in Detroit and advises the City Council on the establishment of new historic districts.
Leadership: The HDAB has 9 members. Each member is appointed by the City Council. The HDAB also includes the Directors of the City Planning Commission and the Planning and Development Department, who serve ex officio. Current HDAB members are:
- Dr. Carolyn Carter - Chairperson
- Melanie A. Bazil - Vice Chairperson
- Theresa Holder-Hagood - Secretary
- Naomi Beasley-Porter
- Keith Dye
- Louis J. Fisher
- Calvin Jackson
- Joseph Rashid
- Nubia Wardford Polk
Public Meetings: The HDAB hosts monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business. The HDAB may meet more frequently, depending on its volume of work.
Legal Authority: The HDAB operates under the legal authority of Chapter 21, Article II of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/3/2022
Description: The Board of Electrical Examiners advises the Director of the Buildings, Safety Engineering, and Environmental Department (BSEED) on matters related to the examination and licensing of electrical contractors under City’s electrical code.
Leadership: The Board has 11 members. 10 members are appointed by the Mayor, and the final member is the Chief of BSEED’s Electrical Division, who serves ex officio. Current Board members include:
- Bert McAlister - Chairperson
- Marian Swint - Secretary
- Ray Litt
- Michael Cronk Jr.
- Ric Preuss
- Warren Coklow
Public Meetings: The Board hosts monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business. The Board may meet more frequently, depending on its volume of work.
Legal Authority: The Board operates under the legal authority of Chapter 8, Article III of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/3/2022
Description: The Board of Wrecking Contractors Examiners advises the Director of the Buildings, Safety Engineering, and Environmental Department (BSEED) on matters related to the examination and licensing of wrecking/demolition contractors under the City’s building code.
Leadership: The Board has 7 members. 6 members are appointed by the Mayor, and the final member is the Chief of BSEED’s Construction Division, who serves ex officio. Current Board members are:
- Glenn Davis - Chairperson
- Robert Deberardino - Vice-Chairperson
- Ronald Diebel
- Michael Farrow
- James Foster
- Perry Tice
Public Meetings: The Board hosts bi-monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business. The Board may meet more frequently, depending on its volume of work.
Reporting on the Board's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The Board operates under the legal authority of Chapter 8, Article II of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/3/2022
Description: The Board of Water Commissioners (BOWC) serves as the governing body for the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) and is responsible for oversight of DWSD’s budget, water, sewerage, and drainage rates, as well as approval of DWSD’s senior staff. The BOWC includes four committees:
- Finance Committee
- Capital Improvement and Operations Committee
- Customer Service Committee
- Human Resources and Organizational Development Committee
Leadership: The BOWC has 7 members. Each member is appointed by the Mayor. Current BOWC members are:
- Michael Einheuser - Chairperson
- Mary E. Blackmon - Vice-Chairperson
- Lane Coleman
- John Henry Davis
- Linda D. Forte
- Jane C. Garcia
- Jonathan C. Kinloch
Finance Committee members include:
- Linda Forte - Chairperson
- Michael Einheuser
- Lane Coleman
- Jonathan Kinloch
Capital Improvement and Operations Committee members include:
- Lane Coleman - Chairperson
- Michael Einheuser
- John Henry Davis
- Linda Forte
Customer Service Committee members include:
- Mary E. Blackmon - Chairperson
- John Henry Davis
- Jane Garcia
- Jonathan Kinloch
Human Resources and Organizational Development Committee members include:
- John Henry Davis - Chairperson
- Mary Blackmon
- Linda Forte
- Jane Garcia
Public Meetings: The BOWC and its committees host monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business. The BOWC may meet more frequently, depending on its volume of work.
Reporting on the BOWC's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The BOWC operates under the legal authority of Article 7, Chapter 12 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Chapter 48 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/3/2022
Description: The Detroit Housing Commission manages approximately 4,000 units of affordable housing for low and moderate-income individuals and families in Detroit. The Housing Commission also administers approximately 6,000 housing vouchers under its Section 8 Housing Choice voucher program.
Leadership: The Housing Commission has 5 members. Each member is appointed by the Mayor. At least 1 member must be a resident of public or subsidized housing. Current Housing Commission members are:
- Richard Hosey - President
- Penny Bailer - Vice President
- Achsah Williams
- Aaron Seybert
- Keona Cowan
Public Meetings: The Housing Commission hosts monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Legal Authority: The Housing Commission operates under the legal authority of the Michigan Housing Facilities Act (Public Act 18 of 1933) and Chapter 12, Article VII of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/3/2022
Description: The Belle Isle Park Advisory Committee was established in 2014 upon the City’s 30-year lease of Belle Isle to the State and serves to advise the State on implementation of improvements, master planning and public safety for the park.
Leadership: The Belle Isle Park Advisory Committee has 7 members. 1 member is jointly appointed by the Governor and the Mayor and serves as the Chairperson, 3 members are appointed by the Governor, 2 members are appointed by the Mayor, and 1 member is appointed by the City Council. Current Committee members are:
- Michele Hodges - Chairperson
- Bryan C. Barnhill, II
- Michael Curis
- Rev. Lonnie Peek, Jr.
- Bud Denker
- Brad Dick
- Sommer Woods
Public Meetings: The Committee hosts monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Reporting on the Committee's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The Committee operates under the legal authority of the Belle Isle lease agreement between the City of Detroit and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, dated September 30, 2013.
Updated: 3/31/2022
Description: The Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) seeks to increase compliance with hazardous materials reporting requirements and to provide information regarding the storage of hazardous materials for the benefit of Detroit residents, businesses and industries.
Public Meetings: The LEPC hosts bi-monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Reporting on the LEPC's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The LEPC operates under the legal authority of Section 301 of the federal Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act, 42 USC 11001.
Updated: 3/3/2022
Description: The Election Commission serves as the governing body for the Elections Department and is responsible for supervision of all elections in Detroit.
Leadership: The Commission has 3 members: the City Clerk, who serves as Chairperson, the City Council President, and the Corporation Council of the Law Department. Current Commission members are:
- Janice Winfrey (City Clerk) - Chairperson
- Mary Sheffield (Council President)
- Conrad L. Mallett, Jr. (Corporation Counsel)
Public Meetings: The Commission hosts occasional public meetings, generally in advance up election dates, to conduct its regular business.
Legal Authority: The Election Commission operates under the legal authority of Article 3 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Chapter 13, Article II of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 7/11/2022
Description: Established in 1881, the Library Commission serves as the governing body for the Detroit Public Library system, an independent municipal corporation that operates the Main Library and 21 branch locations. The Library Commission has multiple committees, including a Committee on Buildings, a Committee on Finance, a Bylaws Committee, and an Audit Committee.
Leadership: The Library Commission has 7 members. 6 members are appointed by the Detroit Public Schools Community District Board of Education, and the final member is the Board of Education Chairperson, who serves ex officio. Current Commission members are:
- Edythe Hayden Friley - President
- Ida Short - Vice President
- Franklin Jackson - Secretary
- Jean-Vierre Adams
- Dr. Gregory Hicks
- Angelique Peterson-Mayberry (ex officio)
Public Meetings: The Library Commission hosts monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Reporting on the Library Commission's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Updated: 3/3/2022
Description: The Detroit Entertainment Commission serves as an advisory body to stimulate community and economic development through entertainment and the arts, including music, film, theater, cultural, and athletic venues and attractions.
Leadership: The Entertainment Commission has 11 members. 9 members are appointed by the City Council and 2 members are appointed by the Mayor. Current Commission members are:
- Gwendolyn Scales - Chairperson
- John Collins - Vice Chairperson
- Sophia Chue - Secretary
- Chiara Clayton
- Asia Hamilton
- Christos Moisides
- Gregory J. Reed
- Gwen Lewis
- Norman Thrasher
Public Meetings: The Entertainment Commission hosts monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Reporting on the Entertainment Commission's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The Entertainment Commission operates under the legal authority of the City Council resolution by which it was established, dated June 24, 2008.
Updated: 3/3/2022
Description: The Board of Review considers appeals of assessments and classifications of real and personal property in Detroit. The Board of Review operates during limited periods in March, July, and December of each year.
Leadership: The Board of Review has 9 members. Each member is appointed by the City Council. Current Board members are:
- Geraldine Chatman (At-Large) - Chairperson
- Lewis Moore (District 7) - Vice Chairperson
- [vacant] (At-Large)
- Jacqueline Robinson (District 1)
- Brandy Mitchell (District 2)
- [vacant] (District 3)
- Willie C. Donwell (District 4)
- Maria Muhammad (District 5)
- Rocio Ocampo (District 6)
Public Meetings: The Board of Review hosts weekly meetings each spring, generally starting after the Board's March review period.
Legal Authority: The Board of Review operates under the legal authority of Article 9, Chapter 4 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Chapter 44, Article VI of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/3/2022
Description: The Elected Officials Compensation Commission (EOCC) is responsible for determining the salaries of the elected officials for the City of Detroit, including the Mayor, City Council members, and the City Clerk. The EOCC’s determinations may be overturned only by a vote of two-thirds of the City Council.
Leadership: The EOCC has 7 members. Each member is appointed by the Mayor, subject to confirmation by the City Council. Current members include:
- Angela Baldwin
- Joni Thrower
- Rhonda Willis
- Isaiah McKinnon
- Maurice Morton
- Tiffany Jackson
- Geneva Williams
Public Meetings: The EOCC hosts public meetings during its biennial sessions in odd-numbered years.
Legal Authority: The EOCC operates under the legal authority of Section 2-108 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Chapter 2, Article II of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/3/2022
Description: The Board of Ethics investigates and resolves complaints regarding alleged violations of the City of Detroit Ethics Ordinance by City personnel. The Board of Ethics also issues advisory opinions upon request by City personnel regarding provisions of the Charter, City Ordinances, other laws, or regulations establishing their standards of conduct.
Leadership: The Board of Ethics has 7 members. 3 members are appointed by the Mayor, 3 members are appointed by the City Council, and 1 member is jointly appointed by the Mayor and City Council. Current Board members are:
- Kristin Lusn - Chairperson
- David W. Jones - Vice Chairperson
- Mario Morrow, Sr.
- Byron Osbern
- Robert Watt
- Michael Rafferty
Public Meetings: The Board of Ethics hosts monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Reporting on the Board's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The Board of Ethics operates under the legal authority of Article 2 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Chapter 2, Article V of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/3/2022
Description: The Human Rights Commission (HRC) oversees the Civil Rights, Inclusion, and Opportunity Department, which is responsible for investigating complaints of unlawful discrimination, ensuring access to City government services without discrimination, and increasing mutual understanding among the residents of the community, to promote good will, and to work cooperatively eliminate discrimination and the results of past discrimination.
Leadership: The Commission has 11 members. Each member is appointed by the Mayor, subject to confirmation by the City Council. Current members are:
- Bill Ross (At-Large) - Chairperson
- Bishop Daryl Harris (District 3) - Vice Chairperson
- Bruno Olvera (At-Large)
- Patricia Cole (At-Large)
- Charlotte Wright (District 1)
- Dr. Erik Carter (District 5)
- Suneil Singh (District 6)
- Dr. Rhonda Paul (District 7)
Public Meetings: The HRC hosts monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Legal Authority: The HRC operates under the legal authority of Article 7, Chapter 7 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and Chapter 23, Article II of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/31/2022
Description: The Civil Service Commission serves as the governing body for the Human Resources Department. The Commission is responsible for establishing regulations for the Human Resources Department’s activities to provide for employment with Detroit municipal government and for the final resolution of any grievance brought by or against a classified government employee.
Leadership: The Commission has 5 members. 2 members are appointed by the Mayor, 2 members are appointed by the City Council, and 1 member is jointly appointed by the Mayor and the City Council. Current Commission members are:
- Edna Bell - Chairperson
- Brenda Braceful - Vice Chairperson
- Terrina Murrey
- Philip Schoop
- Dana Williams
Public Meetings: The Commission hosts occasional public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Legal Authority: The Commission operates under the legal authority of Article 6, Chapter 4 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter and and Chapter 35, Articles I and II of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/3/2022
Description: The General Retirement System Board is the governing body for the general retirement system for all City of Detroit employees other than Police and Fire personnel. The General Retirement System includes an Investment Committee that makes recommendations to the General Retirement System Board regarding investment management matters and serves in a fiduciary capacity with respect to the investment management of the General Retirement System’s assets.
Leadership: The Board has 10 trustees. 7 trustees are elected by pension members, which must include 5 active employee retirement system members, 1 retiree member, and 1 non-member. Other members include the Mayor (or designee), the City Treasurer, and 1 Council member, who serve ex officio. Current Board members are:
- Armella June Nickleberry - Chairperson
- Crystal Perkins - Vice Chairperson
- Thomas Sheehan
- Reginald Jenkins
- Kimberly Hall-Wagner
- Jermaine Brown
- Rev. Wendell Anthony
- Scott Benson (ex officio)
- John Naglick (ex officio)
- Christa Mclellan (ex officio)
The Investment Committee has 7 members, including 5 independent, subject matter experts who are not members of the Board, as well as 1 retiree member of the General Retirement System Board, and 1 active employee member of the Board, both of whom are appointed by representatives of the State of Michigan, the City of Detroit, and the Board of Trustees. Current Investment Committee members are:
- Kenneth Whipple - Chairperson
- David Sowerby - Vice Chairperson
- Doris Ewing - Secretary
- Anthony Estell
- Armella June Nickleberry
- Thomas Sheehan
- Dion Stevens
Public Meetings: The Board and its Investment Committee each hosts monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Reporting on the Board's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The General Retirement System Board and its Investment Committee operate under the legal authority of Article 11 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter, Chapter 39, Article I of the 2019 Detroit City Code and Emergency Manager Order No. 44 (July 1, 2014).
Updated: 3/3/2022
Description: The Police and Fire Retirement System Board is the governing body for the City of Detroit retirement system for Police and Fire personnel. The Police and Fire Retirement System includes an Investment Committee that makes recommendations to the Police and Fire Retirement System Board regarding investment management matters and serves in a fiduciary capacity with respect to the investment management of Police and Fire Retirement System assets.
Leadership: The Board has 17 trustees. 8 trustees are elected by police and fire retirement system members, 3 trustees are appointed by police and fire active members, and 6 trustees serve ex officio. Elected trustees must include 3 Police active employees, 3 Fire active employees, 1 Police retiree, and 1 Fire retiree. Appointed members must include 1 Police retiree, 1 Fire retiree, and 1 non-member. Ex officio members include the Mayor, 1 City Council member, the Treasurer, Finance Director, Budget Director, and the Corporation Counsel. Current elected Board members are:
- Dean Pincheck - Chairperson
- Matthew Gnatek - Vice-Chairperson
- Ronald Thomas
- Michael Berent
- Jeffrey Pegg
- John Serda
- Greg Trozak
- George Orzech
The Investment Committee has 9 members, including 5 independent, subject matter experts who are not members of the Board, as well as 1 Police retiree member of the Board, 1 Police active employee member of the Board, 1 Fire retiree member of the Board, and 1 Fire active employee member of the Board, all of whom are appointed by representatives of the State of Michigan, the City of Detroit, and the Police and Fire Retirement System Board. Current Investment Committee members are:
- Orim Graves - Chairperson
- Cynthia Thomas - Vice Chairperson
- Jeff Pegg - Secretary
- Woodrow S. Tyler
- Dina Richard
- Matthew Gnatek
- George Orzech
- Greg Trozak
- Jerry Mingione
Public Meetings: The Board hosts twice-monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business. The Board's Investment Committee hosts monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Reporting on the Board's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The Police and Fire Retirement System Board and its Investment Committee operate under the legal authority of Article 11 of the 2012 Detroit City Charter, Chapter 39, Article II of the 2019 Detroit City Code, and Emergency Manager Order No. 44 (July 1, 2014).
Updated: 4/29/2022
Description: The Retirement System Employee Benefit Plan Committee is responsible for the general administration and management of death benefits for City employees and their dependents, and approves medical benefit rates for active Retirement System members.
Leadership:
The Committee has 9 members. 6 members are the active employee or retiree members of the General Retirement System Board. Other members are the City Finance Director, Treasurer, and 1 Council member, all of whom serve ex officio. Current Committee members are:
- Kimberly Hall-Wagner - Chairperson
- Jermaine Brown - Vice-Chairperson
- Armella June Nickleberry
- Thomas Sheehan
- Crystal Perkins
- Reginald Jenkins
- Mary Sheffield - Ex-Officio Trustee/City Council President
- Justin Bahri - Ex-Officio Trustee/City Treasurer
- John Naglick - Ex-Officio Trustee/Finance Director
Public Meetings: The Board hosts monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Reporting on the Committee's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Updated: 7/7/2022
Public Authorities are semi-autonomous public agencies that have been established by an act of the Detroit City Council and operate under the authority of state law. Public Authorities are typically led by a body of private individuals who have been appointed to their positions, either by the Mayor or the City Council, for a limited term. Each Public Authority is authorized under state law to perform a specific scope of work - usually related to facilitating economic development projects or operating certain public infrastructure.
Description: The Detroit Land Bank Authority was established in 2008 through an intergovernmental agreement between the City of Detroit and the Michigan Land Bank Fast Track Authority and is responsible for managing blighted and vacant properties in Detroit and for returning its properties to productive use through a variety of programs and community partnerships, among others. The Land Bank’s inventory currently includes approximately 90,000 properties. The Land Bank has multiple committees, including a Finance/Audit Committee, and a Community Engagement Committee.
Leadership: The Land Bank is led by a 5-member Board of Directors. 4 members are appointed by the Mayor, subject to confirmation by the City Council, and 1 member is appointed by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority. Current members are:
- Erica Ward Gerson - Chairperson
- Patricia Pernell Shelton - Vice Chairperson
- Richard Hosey - Treasurer
- Miranda Morrow-Bartell - Secretary
- Carol Walters
Public Meetings: The Land Bank Board hosts monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Reporting on the Land Bank's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The Land Bank Authority operates under the legal authority of the Michigan Land Bank Fast Track Act (Public Act 258 of 2003).
Updated: 3/6/2022
Description: The Economic Development Corporation (EDC) facilitates redevelopment projects for local industrial and commercial enterprises through loans and public infrastructure improvement programs.
Leadership: The EDC is governed by a 9-member Board of Directors. Each member is appointed by the Mayor, subject to confirmation by the City Council. Current EDC Board members are:
- Linda Forte - Chairperson
- Jonathan Quarles - Vice Chairperson
- Marsha Bruhn - Secretary
- Thomas Stallworth III - Treasurer
- Clifford Brown
- Kimberly Clayson
- Damon Hodge
- Christopher Jackson
- Kwaku Osei
Public Meetings: The EDC Board hosts twice-monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Reporting on the EDC's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The EDC operates under the legal authority of the Michigan Economic Development Corporations Act (Public Act 338 of 1974) and Chapter 12, Article V of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 1/23/2023
Description: The Neighborhood Development Corporation (NDC) is a subsidiary of the Economic Development Corporation that focuses on implementation of housing and neighborhood programs within qualified blighted or redevelopment areas through property acquisition, infrastructure improvements, and housing construction and rehabilitation.
Leadership: The NDC is governed by a Board of Directors that consists of the same members as the EDC’s Board of Directors. Current NDC Board members are:
- Linda Forte - Chairperson
- Jonathan Quarles - Vice Chairperson
- Marsha Bruhn - Secretary
- Clifford Brown
- Kimberly Clayson
- Damon Hodge
- Christopher Jackson
- Kwaku Osei
- Thomas Stallworth
Public Meetings: The NDC Board hosts monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Reporting on the NDC's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The NDC operates under the legal authority of the Michigan Economic Development Corporations Act (Public Act 338 of 1974).
Updated: 3/6/2022
Description: The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) supports private investments and business growth targeted in Detroit’s central business district through loans, sponsorships and grants, capital improvements to public infrastructure, and additional programs designed to increase economic activity.
Leadership: The DDA is governed by a Board of Directors, including the Mayor, who serves ex officio, and 8 to 12 members who are appointed by the Mayor, subject to confirmation by the City Council, as well as the Mayor. Current DDA Board members are:
- Michael Duggan - Chairperson
- David Blaszkiewicz - Vice Chairperson
- John Naglick, Jr. - Treasurer
- Ehrlich Crain - Secretary
- Marvin W. Beatty
- Austin Black
- Charles Beckham
- Melvin "Butch" Hollowell
- Richard J. Hosey
- James Jenkins
- Stephen A. Ogden
- Donald Rencher
Public Meetings: The DDA Board hosts bi-weekly public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Reporting on the DDA's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The DDA operates under the legal authority of Part 2 of the Michigan Tax Increment Financing Act (Public Act 57 of 2018) and Chapter 12, Article IV of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/6/2022
Description: The Detroit Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (DBRA) facilitates the revitalization of environmentally distressed, contaminated, blighted, or functionally obsolete properties in Detroit through tax increment financing to provide reimbursement for the costs of both environmental and non-environmental activities, including baseline environmental assessments; due care activities; lead, asbestos and mold abatement; demolition; site preparation; and infrastructure improvements. The DBRA Board receives regular input from a Community Advisory Committee (CAC).
Leadership: The DBRA is governed by a 9-member Board of Directors. Each member is appointed by the Mayor, subject to confirmation by the City Council. Current DBRA Board members are:
- Ray Scott - Chairperson
- Donele Wilkins - Vice Chairperson
- Stephanie Washington - Treasurer
- Pamela McClain - Secretary
- Maggie DeSantis
- Sonya Mays
- Amanda Elias
- John George
- Juan Gonzalez
The CAC has 9 members, including 4 members who are appointed by the Mayor, 4 members who are appointed by the City Council, and 1 member who is selected by the other members. Current Committee members are:
- Kamal Cheeks - Chairperson
- Bradley Lutz - Vice Chairperson
- Rico Razo - Treasurer
- Allen Rawls - Secretary
- Rick Blocker
- Michelle Lee
- Dr. Regina Randall
- Peter Rhoades
- Simone Sagovac
Public Meetings: The DBRA Board and CAC each hosts bi-weekly public meetings to conduct their regular business.
Reporting on the DBRA's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The DBRA operates under the legal authority of the Michigan Brownfield Redevelopment Financing Act (Public Act 381 of 1996).
Updated: 3/6/2022
Description: The Local Finance Development Authority (LDFA) seeks to expand employment opportunities and promote economic growth in Detroit by supporting projects such as industrial facility revitalizations, technology park development, and streetscape improvements through grants and tax increment financing, among other means.
Leadership: The LDFA is governed by an 11-member Board of Directors. 7 members are appointed by the Mayor, subject to confirmation by the City Council, 1 member represents the Wayne County Community College, 1 member represents Wayne County, and 2 members represent the Detroit Public Schools Community District. Current LDFA Board members are:
- Linda Forte - Chairperson
- Irma Clark-Coleman - Vice Chairperson
- Furquan Ahmed - Treasurer
- Arthur Jackson - Secretary
- Derek J. Dickow
- Damon Hodge
- Machion Jackson
- James Jenkins III
- Katrina McCree
- Mariann Sarafa
Public Meetings: The LFDA Board hosts biannual public meetings, generally in June and October, to conduct its regular business.
Reporting on the LDFA's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The LDFA operates under the legal authority of Part 4 of the Michigan Tax Increment Financing Act (Public Act 57 of 2018).
Updated: 3/6/2022
Description: The Next Michigan Development Corporation (NMDC) seeks to attract eligible multi-modal businesses to specific areas in Detroit that have a high potential for growth in particular industries, including manufacturing, transportation, distribution, and logistics through mechanisms including tax incentives, real and personal property tax exemptions, and local development financing.
Leadership: The NMDC is governed by a 9-member Board of Directors. Each member is appointed by the Mayor subject to confirmation by the City Council. Current NMDC Board members are:
- Linda Forte - Chairperson
- Jonathan Quarles - Vice Chairperson
- Marsha Bruhn - Secretary
- Clifford Brown
- Kimberly Clayson
- Damon Hodge
- Christopher Jackson
- Kwaku Osei
- Thomas Stallworth
Public Meetings: The NMDC Board hosts quarterly public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Reporting on the NMDC's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The NMDC operates under the legal authority of the Next Michigan Development Act (Public Act 275 of 2010).
Updated: 3/6/2022
Description: The Eight Mile Woodward Corridor Improvement Authority (EMWCIA) was established to provide tax increment financing for the redevelopment of the approximately 35 acre property at the southeast corner of Woodward Avenue and 8 Mile Road into the Gateway Marketplace.
Leadership: The EMWCIA is governed by a 7-member Board of Directors. 6 members are appointed by the Mayor, subject to confirmation by the City Council, and the final member is the Mayor, who serves ex officio. Current EMWCIA Board members are:
- Ricardo Solomon - Chairperson
- John Naglick - Vice Chairperson
- Savarior Service - Treasurer
- Elliott Hall - Secretary
- Ronald A. Blevins
- John Draper Jr.
- Michael Duggan (ex officio)
Public Meetings: The EMWCIA Board hosts bi-monthly public meetings in even-numbered months to conduct its regular business.
Reporting on the EMWCIA's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The EMWCIA operates under the legal authority of Part 6 of the Michigan Tax Increment Financing Act (Public Act 57 of 2018) and Chapter 12, Article III of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/6/2022
Description: The Detroit Building Authority (DBA) is responsible for performance of large-scale capital construction projects and space planning of City-owned facilities, demolition of commercial and residential properties, and management of a portfolio of commercial properties.
Leadership: The DBA is governed by a 6-member Board of Commissioners. 2 members are appointed by the Mayor, 2 members are appointed by the City Council, and 1 member is jointly appointed by the Mayor and City Council, as well as the Mayor, who serves ex officio. Current DBA Board members are:
- Hakim W. Berry (Chairperson)
- Christopher Jackson (Treasurer)
- Judge Edward Thomas (Secretary)
- Maggie DeSantis
- Clarence Gayles
- Mike Duggan (ex officio)
Public Meetings: The DBA Board hosts monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Legal Authority: The DBA operates under the legal authority of the Michigan Building Authorities Act (Public Act 31 of 1948) and Chapter 12, Article I of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/6/2022
Description: The Detroit-Wayne Joint Building Authority (DWJBA) was incorporated in 1948 and owns and operates the 745,000 square foot Coleman A. Young Municipal Center (CAYMC), located in downtown Detroit, which opened in 1955 and currently contains the administrative offices of many City of Detroit governmental offices, as well as certain Wayne County courts.
Leadership: The DWJBA is governed by a 3-member Board of Commissioners. 1 member is appointed by the Detroit City Council, 1 member is appointed by the Wayne County Commission, and 1 member is jointly appointed by both bodies.
Submit comments to the DWJBA Leadership
Public Meetings: The DWJBA Board hosts monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Updated: 3/6/2022
Description: The Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority (DRCFA) was established in 2009 and operates Huntington Place, formerly known as Cobo Hall, located in downtown Detroit. The Authority includes committees on arts and capital improvements.
Leadership: The DRCFA is governed by a 5-member Board of Directors. One member is appointed by each of the State of Michigan, the City of Detroit, Wayne County, Oakland County, and Macomb County. Current Board members are:
- Lisa Canada (Wayne County appointee) - Chairperson
- Larry Alexander (State of Michigan appointee)
- Alexis Wiley (City of Detroit appointee)
- Jeffrey Lance Abood (Oakland County appointee)
- Marilyn Lane (Macomb County Appointee)
Public Meetings: The DRCFA Board hosts monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Reporting on the DRCFA's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: The DRCFA operates under authority of Public Act. No. 63 of 2009.
Updated: 3/6/2022
Description: The Public Lighting Authority (PLA) is responsible for operation and maintenance of 65,0000 street lights and other public lighting facilities in Detroit.
Leadership: The PLA is governed by a 5-member Board of Directors. 2 members are appointed by the Mayor, 2 members are appointed by the City Council, and 1 member is appointed jointly by the Mayor and the City Council. Current PLA Board members are:
- Dr. Lorna Thomas - Chairperson
- Rod Parker - Treasurer
- Patrick L. Padgett - Secretary
- Melvin Butch Hollowell
- Ric Preuss
Public Meetings: The PLA Board hosts occasional public meetings on an approximately bi-monthly basis to conduct its regular business.
Legal Authority: The PLA operates under the legal authority of Municipal Lighting Authority Act (Public Act 392 of 2012).
Updated: 3/6/2022
Description: The Greater Detroit Resource Recovery Authority (GDRRA) provides waste management services for Detroit’s municipal solid waste through the operation of waste transfer and processing hubs, including the former waste-to-energy incinerator facility, household hazardous waste facilities, and bulk waste drop off facilities, as well as management of Detroit’s municipal recycling program.
Leadership: GDRRA is governed by a 7-member Board of Directors, including the Mayor, the assistant to the Mayor, the Budget Director, Finance Director, BSEED Director, and DPW Director, as well as the Public Works Director for the City of Highland Park, all of whom serve ex officio.
Submit comments to GDRRA Leadership
Legal Authority: GDRRA operates under the legal authority of the Michigan Joint Garbage and Rubbish Disposal Act (Public Act 179 of 1947) and Chapter 42, Article II, Division 6 of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/6/2022
Description: The Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA) is a Canadian Crown corporation that is responsible for the design, construction, and operation of the Gordie Howe International Bridge project between Windsor and Detroit through a public-private partnership with Bridging North America (BNA). WDBA is wholly owned by the Government of Canada and reports to Parliament through the Minister of Infrastructure and Communities. The WDBA is also subject to oversight by a joint Canada–Michigan an International Authority, which is responsible for monitoring the WDBA’s compliance with the Crossing Agreement signed by Canada and Michigan.
Leadership: The WDBA is governed by a 9-member Board of Directors. Each member is appointed by the Canadian Government. Current WDBA Board members are:
- Tim Murphy - Chairperson
- Bryce Phillips
- Karla Avis
- Marie Campagna
- Judi Cohen
- Shelly Cunningham
- André Juneau
- Rish Malhotra
- Michael Mueller
The WDBA’s International Authority is governed by a 6-member Board of Directors, three of whom are appointed by the State of Michigan, two of whom are appointed by Canada, and one of whom is appointed by the WDBA Board. Current International Authority Board members are:
- Kristine Burr (Canada appointee) - Chair
- Roy Norton (Canada appointee)
- David Alade (Michigan appointee)
- Michael D. Hayes (Michigan appointee)
- Birgit M. Klohs (Michigan appointee)
- Eddie Francis (WDBA appointee)
Public Meetings: The WDBA hosts occasional community meetings to provide information about the construction and operation of the Gordie Howe International Bridge.
Legal Authority: The WDBA is a Canadian Crown corporation under Part X of the Financial Administration Act (FAA) and was established by Letters Patent pursuant to ss.29(1) of the International Bridges and Tunnels Act.
Updated: 3/6/2022
Description: The Detroit Transportation Corporation (DTC) owns and operates the People Mover, an elevated light-rail passenger train system in service since 1987 that includes 13 stations located along a 2.9 mile closed-loop track in downtown Detroit.
Leadership: The DTC is governed by a 6-member Board of Directors. 3 members are appointed by the Mayor. Other members are representatives of the City Council President, Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT), and Suburban Mobility Area Rapid Transit (SMART). Current DTC Board members are:
- Hakim Berry - Chairperson
- Mary Sheffield
- John Naglick
- C. Mikel Oglesby
- Luke Polcyn
- Vicki Wolber
Public Meetings: The DTC Board hosts monthly public meetings to conduct its regular business.
Legal Authority: The DTC operates under the legal authority of Chapter 47, Article VI of the 2019 Detroit City Code.
Updated: 3/31/2022
Description: The Detroit Promise Zone Authority was created in 2015 to oversee the Detroit Promise, which provides last-dollar scholarship opportunities to provide all eligible Detroit residents with a tuition-free path to an associate degree, bachelor’s degree, or technical certificate at participating academic institutions.
Leadership: The Promise Zone Authority has 11 members. 9 members are appointed by the Mayor, subject to confirmation by the City Council, 1 member is appointed by the State Senate Majority Leader, and 1 member is appointed by the Speaker of the State House of Representatives. Current Promise Zone Authority members are:
- Charlie Beckham
- Peter Remington
- Penny Bailer
- Floyd Allen
- Peter Remington
- John Ziraldo
- Ashley Johnson
- Desirae Tolbert
- Dr. Iris Taylor
- Preston Wilburn
- Stacie Clayton
Submit comments to Promise Zone Leadership
Legal Authority: The Promise Zone Authority operates under the legal authority of the Michigan Promise Zone Authority Act (Public Act 549 of 2008).
Updated: 3/31/2022
School Districts manage public elementary and secondary schools and operate under authority of state law. School Districts are led by a board of private individuals who have been independently elected to their positions.
Description: The Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) is the public elementary and secondary school system serving Detroit students. DPSCD is the largest K-12 school system in Michigan, with over 100 schools and approximately 50,000 students.
Leadership: DPSCD is governed by a 7-member Board of Education. Each member is independently elected. Current Board of Education members are:
- Angelique Peterson-Mayberry - President
- Dr. Deborah Hunter-Harvill - Vice President
- Misha Stallworth - Secretary
- Sonya Mays - Treasury
- Sherry Gay-Dagnogo
- Georgia Lemmons
- Bishop Corletta J. Vaughn
The Board of Education has numerous committees, including (committee chairperson in parentheses):
- Curriculum/Academic Committee (Bishop Corletta J. Vaughn)
- Finance Committee (Sonya Mays)
- Policy Ad Hoc Committee (Misha Stallworth)
- Legislative Chair (Sherry Gay-Dagnogo)
- Public Safety Oversight Committee (Misha Stallworth)
- Detroit Public Library Commission Appointee Committee (Dr. Deborah-Hunter-Harvill)
- Code of Conduct (Georgia Lemmons)
- Exceptional Student Education (Dr. Deborah Hunter-Harvill)
Public Meetings: The Board of Education and its committees host monthly public meetings to conduct their regular business.
Reporting on the DPSCD's public meetings is available from the Detroit Documenters.
Legal Authority: DPSCD operates under the legal authority of the Michigan Revised School Code (Public Act 451 of 1976, as amended by Public Act 192 of 2016).
Updated: 3/6/2022
This directory is provided for informational purposes only without any representation as to the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of its contents.