DETROIT – Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield unveiled her first city budget, laying out a $3 billion plan for the 2027 fiscal year.
About $1.5 billion of that is in the city’s general fund, slightly smaller than the current budget.
City officials say that’s largely because there are fewer special projects and other one-time expenses this time around, while funding for core services like police, fire, and trash pickup remains about the same.
“We are going to continue to make sure that we have fiscal discipline and management as we move forward,” said Sheffield. “We’re looking at cost savings across all departments for sure and continue to look at ways to generate revenue.”
Sheffield says the proposal is built around both financial discipline and “strategic investments” aimed at tackling poverty and strengthening neighborhoods.
A major piece of that plan: guaranteeing a living wage for full-time city workers, at least $21.45 an hour, or about $44,500 a year.
Detroit city worker ShaDawn Adams currently works two jobs to stay afloat. She says she’s not alone.
“We need a boost of morale,” said Adams. “I think the morale has been lost with people working hard every day and having to struggle to balance their life.”
Adams says a raise would offer some much-needed relief.
“It would make it a little bit easier. It is a breath of sunshine,” Adams said. “I am looking for relaxation, to finally be able to not have to put one foot in front of the other running, when I could just walk calmly.”
Sheffield says the city should be setting the standard.
“The city had to lead by example. There is no reason that the city is not paying a living wage,” she said.
The mayor also points to the potential ripple effects for Detroit’s economy. About 43% of city workers live in the city, including Celeste Gilbert, an animal shelter assistant at Detroit Animal Care and Control.
“It is definitely going to be helpful,” Gilbert said. “It’s been hard.”
Thalese McClendon, an animal care technician who started about a month ago, is currently unhoused.
Her two children are living with their father while she works to get back on her feet.
“This creates more stability in my life to get a house and get my kids back,” McClendon said.
Sheffield’s budget proposal now goes to the City Council, which will hold hearings, debate possible changes, and ultimately vote on whether to approve the plan.
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