Highland Park mayor to request recount after community leader wins

November 4, 2026

Shamayim "Mama Shu" Harris, founder of the nonprofit Avalon Village, narrowly defeated incumbent Glenda McDonald in Highland Park's mayoral election by just 27 votes out of roughly 2,900 cast. Harris, a recognized community leader who has spent nearly two decades transforming blighted properties in the small Michigan city, campaigned on her extensive experience as a school administrator, minister, and community builder. The outgoing mayor has announced plans to request a recount of the extremely close results, though she indicated she will concede if the numbers remain unchanged.

Who is affected

Shamayim "Mama Shu" Harris (61-year-old mayoral winner)
Glenda McDonald (incumbent mayor who lost reelection)
Highland Park residents (population of nearly 9,000)
Avalon Village nonprofit organization
Harris' daughters, Aziza Brent and Kafi Humphrey (who took over Avalon Village leadership)
Women entrepreneurs who use Avalon Village marketplace

What action is being taken

Glenda McDonald is requesting a recount of the election results
Harris has turned over leadership of Avalon Village to her daughters
Harris is receiving an outpouring of support on social media

Why it matters

This election matters because Highland Park, a small 2.9-square-mile city with nearly 9,000 residents, will experience a change in leadership and direction. Harris brings nearly two decades of proven community transformation experience through Avalon Village, where she successfully converted blighted properties into community assets. Her election represents an opportunity to scale her successful neighborhood revitalization model citywide, addressing critical issues like vacant land, illegal dumping, public safety, economic development, and job training that affect the entire community.

What's next

Harris intends to launch a task force to tackle vacant land and illegal dumping
Harris plans to focus on community-centered public safety initiatives
Harris will work to bring investment and small businesses to Highland Park
Harris will implement job training and entrepreneurship programs
Harris will establish citywide communications systems for residents
The recount will be conducted, after which McDonald will concede if results remain the same

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com