AI Chatbot, Instagram live: New land bank strategies to engage Detroiters

June 8, 2026

The Detroit Land Bank Authority is enhancing its community outreach through new digital initiatives, including an Instagram segment called "Talking with Tammy" where CEO Tammy Daniels provides real-time responses to public inquiries. The organization recently launched an AI chatbot on its website after a seven-week testing period to offer residents round-the-clock assistance with their questions. During a city council briefing, officials reported that the land bank manages over 56,000 vacant parcels, with thousands of side lots and neighborhood lots available for purchase.

Who is affected

Detroit residents and community members seeking information about land bank properties
Detroit Land Bank Authority (DLBA) and its staff
CEO Tammy Daniels
Detroit City Council members, specifically Council Member Latisha Johnson
Potential buyers of side lots and neighborhood lots in Detroit

What action is being taken

The DLBA is running an interactive "Talking with Tammy" segment on Instagram providing real-time responses
The land bank is operating an AI chatbot on its website that went live May 18
DLBA officials are briefing the Detroit City Council subcommittee on quarterly findings
The authority is selling 2,248 side lots and 23,968 neighborhood lots through its website

Why it matters

This matters because it represents efforts to improve transparency and accessibility in Detroit's vacant property management system. The digital engagement tools aim to help residents navigate the land acquisition process more easily, particularly for affordable side lots priced at $100. The initiative is especially significant given budget constraints after the elimination of the land bank's general fund subsidy, making efficient community communication and property sales increasingly critical for the authority's operations.

What's next

The DLBA intends to host at least two side lot fairs this summer where residents can apply to purchase lots on the spot
The authority will investigate whether outreach teams can be deployed to increase community awareness about side lots

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com