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COMMUNITY VOICES: Maintaining the Momentum Together

October 29, 2025

The Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP), a century-old organization that has collaborated with 21 mayoral administrations since 1922, has released a white paper called "Maintaining the Momentum" to guide Detroit's upcoming mayoral transition. After gathering input from various stakeholders, board members, and community leaders over several months, the DDP identified key priorities and qualifications needed to sustain the city's recent progress following its recovery from bankruptcy. The white paper outlines critical challenges including housing, education, poverty, and homelessness that require attention, while also highlighting strategies for success and desirable mayoral qualities.

Who is affected

  • Downtown Detroit businesses, residents, employees, and visitors
  • Detroit's diverse communities throughout the city
  • Neighborhood groups and individuals across Detroit
  • Public-sector and nonprofit organizations
  • Approximately 30,000 city employees
  • DDP Board Members and stakeholders
  • The incoming mayoral administration and City Council
  • Community leaders who participated in developing the white paper

What action is being taken

  • The DDP is working with stakeholders, Board Members, and community leaders to build consensus on priorities
  • The organization is collecting input from numerous stakeholders
  • The DDP is publishing and distributing the "Maintaining the Momentum" white paper
  • The organization is preparing to support the incoming administration

Why it matters

  • This matters because Detroit's next mayor will oversee a substantial $1.4 billion budget and be responsible for roughly 30,000 employees during a critical juncture in the city's recovery. While Detroit has achieved significant progress over the past decade with national recognition, population growth, and bankruptcy recovery, major challenges remain including housing, education, poverty, and homelessness that require sustained attention and effective leadership. The DDP's white paper provides a framework for maintaining momentum and ensuring alignment across Detroit's diverse communities on key principles and focus areas, which is essential for building a sustainable, world-class city and continuing the progress achieved under previous administrations.

What's next

  • The DDP Board of Directors and team stand ready to support the next mayor and City Council
  • The organization commits to driving Detroit's future and keeping up momentum
  • The DDP will provide support to the oncoming administration when needed
  • The organization will maintain consistent communication and partnership with city leadership at all levels

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle