DETROIT – Mary Sheffield wasted no time on her first day as Detroit’s new mayor, heading out into the community to meet city workers and residents.
Moments after being sworn in Thursday, Dec. 31, Sheffield made it a priority to connect with the city’s first responders, including firefighters and police officers.
“I just really want you all to know that I see you and I appreciate you and I’m looking forward to addressing some of the concerns that you all have,” Sheffield said. “As we continue to invest into the men and women of this department.”
Her first official stops included tours of a fire station and a public safety center.
During her campaign, Sheffield met with associations and union leaders to hear the concerns and priorities of Detroit’s first responders.
She also formally introduced the city’s new Deputy Mayor, Brian White, who highlighted plans to improve pay for city workers.
“One of the first actions is going to be looking at pay across the board. We want everyone who works with the city to have a living wage. So we are already in those conversations,” White said.
Sheffield’s busy day continued with a visit to Detroit’s Capuchin Soup Kitchen, where she met residents and volunteers.
She even served meals alongside her new husband, Rickey Jackson, Detroit’s first “first gentleman,” who was by her side throughout the day.
“It’s just important that as I take office today, and serving these next four years, that everyone feels that I am their mayor,” Sheffield said. “And that I’m going to represent and uplift their voices, I am a mayor for everyone.”
A larger, public ceremony recognizing Sheffield is scheduled for Jan. 9.