The Downtown Detroit Partnership extends its congratulations to Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield on her historic win. Not only is City Council President Sheffield the city’s first female mayor, but she is also the first millennial mayor – a reflection of the forward-thinking momentum our city is demonstrating.
As one would expect, the conversation has already begun about where the new mayor will direct her focus. What will be her priorities? Can she meet the expectations of the campaign? Is she prepared for the job?
I propose that instead of asking those questions, perhaps we should be asking ourselves these questions. Where can we direct our focus to best support the new mayor? How can we help her move the needle on shared priorities of safety, education, transportation, neighborhood development and equitable participation for all Detroiters? Can the Mayor-Elect expect our patience, respect, and partnership? Are we prepared to extend the grace and cooperation that the mayor requires from all of us?
A Moment of Transition and Opportunity
Detroit is in a position few thought possible a decade ago. I started my role as CEO of the Downtown Detroit Partnership the same year Mayor Duggan was elected. The city was facing bankruptcy and deep challenges. Today, Detroit is recognized globally as a case study in resilience and renewal.
After 12 years of consistent leadership, it is natural that comparisons between Mayor Sheffield and Mayor Duggan will arise.
Let’s hold off on those. They’re more destructive than productive.
Mayor Duggan is the first to say that the city’s turnaround was a team effort, and there’s still much work to be done.
Tackling Detroit’s Most Pressing Challenges
For years, Detroit has been grappling with persistent issues, each demanding both immediate attention and long-term, thoughtful solutions. The following are a few areas where we can use the momentum we’re enjoying to create future change.
Crime: The Detroit Police Department has been hugely successful in reducing crime, but public safety remains essential to attracting and retaining residents, businesses and visitors. By working with residents, community organizations, and local law enforcement, Detroit can continue to build a stronger foundation of trust and safety. Programs like Project Lighthouse® and the Downtown Safety Committee are two examples of how the DDP is utilizing the community to support the DPD in strengthening safety across the city.
Neighborhood Revitalization: DDP recognizes that neither Downtown nor the neighborhoods are done. Yet the successes experienced in the Downtown can continue to be leveraged throughout the city. The Detroit Parks Coalition is one example of collaboration which benefits the city’s 300 public spaces and working with neighborhood organizations to expand clean and safe activities is another. Let’s continue to explore creative ways to provide essential services and access to the neighborhoods.
Mobility: Mobility is central to an accessible and equitable vision. Detroiters must be able to move safely and efficiently as we strengthen not just our economy but our shared sense of belonging and connection.
Education: The quality of education in Detroit is central to the city’s future. Schools have long faced challenges with underfunding, teacher shortages, and disparities in educational outcomes. Every child in Detroit deserves access to a high-quality education.
A Call for Civility and Collaboration
In today’s polarized environment, civility and collaboration are more important than ever. Detroit, like many cities, has its share of divisions—whether it’s political, racial, or economic. For Detroit to thrive, we must all lead by example, modeling respect, engaging in open dialogue, and working together toward shared goals.
No single person, organization, or entity can solve Detroit’s challenges on its own. True progress will come through collective leadership—across neighborhoods, nonprofits, between government, the private sector, and with residents who know their communities best.
Maintaining Detroit’s momentum will require patience, persistence, and accountability, and it’s not just up to the mayor. The road ahead will have its challenges, but with the deliberate leadership and a spirit of collaboration, Detroit’s best days are still to come.