Kermit Williams: A Vote for Me is a Vote for Equity in Pontiac

October 31, 2025

Kermit Williams, a lifelong Pontiac resident and mayoral candidate, argues that the city stands at a critical crossroads where growth must prioritize equity over displacement. While Pontiac is experiencing economic revival with an improved bond rating, a new recreation center, and a major downtown revitalization project, Williams warns this renaissance could become gentrification without intentional protections for long-time residents. He proposes mandatory Community Benefits Agreements for development projects, expanded home repair programs and inclusionary zoning to prevent housing displacement, and community-led planning for public spaces.

Who is affected

Long-time Pontiac residents and Black families who remained during economic decline
Homeowners facing rising property values and tax assessments
Renters experiencing housing affordability pressures
Local workers and minority-owned businesses
Oakland County employees (700) being relocated downtown
Youth who will use recreation facilities and programs
Community members who will use public space created by Phoenix Center demolition

What action is being taken

The city is celebrating an AA- bond rating
A $20 million bond has been secured for a new recreation center
The Phoenix Center is undergoing demolition
Home repair efforts are currently being funded (though described as insufficient)

Why it matters

This election determines whether Pontiac's economic revitalization will benefit the long-time residents who sustained the community through financial crisis or whether it will follow patterns of gentrification that displace existing Black families. The outcome will establish whether public investment creates generational wealth for current residents or primarily serves newcomers and outside interests. With significant county investment and development projects already underway, the policy choices made by the next mayor will shape who can afford to remain in Pontiac and who benefits economically from its growth, making this a defining moment for economic justice in the city.

What's next

Implementation of Community Benefits Agreements as mandatory requirements for projects receiving public support
Expansion and increased funding of the Pontiac Home Repair Program using new tax revenues and improved bond rating
Introduction of Inclusionary Zoning requirements for new multi-family developments
Reform of restrictive zoning codes to allow increased housing density
Expansion of year-round youth programming and skilled trades training at the recreation center
Creation of community-based public safety initiatives
Facilitation of a community-led design process for the two acres of public space created by Phoenix Center demolition

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle