Government

Detroit City Government

Detroit, Michigan

The government of Detroit, Michigan, is structured to address the city’s administrative needs, provide services, and engage with residents. Below is an overview of key government contacts and departments in Detroit:

Mayor’s Office

The mayor is the chief executive officer of the city, responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of Detroit. The mayor has the authority to implement policies, manage the city’s budget, and appoint department heads. The current mayor of Detroit (as of 2025) is Mike Duggan, who has been in office since 2014. Under his leadership, Detroit has seen efforts focused on revitalization, crime reduction, and economic development.

City Council

The Detroit City Council is a 9-member body that acts as the legislative branch of the city government. Council members are elected to serve four-year terms. The council is responsible for passing ordinances, approving the city budget, and approving major city contracts and appointments made by the mayor. The city council also has oversight over the administration of city services and programs. The council is led by a president, with members elected from districts around the city.

City Clerk

The City Clerk is an elected official who handles election procedures, maintains public records, and is responsible for keeping track of city ordinances and resolutions passed by the city council.

City Departments

Detroit has numerous city departments, each responsible for managing specific areas of local government. These departments include the Detroit Police Department, Detroit Fire Department, Public Works, Housing and Revitalization, and Health, among others. These departments are headed by directors appointed by the mayor.

Board of Water and Sewerage

The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) operates as a separate authority, overseeing the management of water and sewer services for Detroit and some surrounding areas. It’s governed by a board of commissioners appointed by the mayor.

Finance and Budget

The City of Detroit has faced significant financial challenges in recent years, including filing for bankruptcy in 2013. Since then, the city has worked to stabilize its finances and improve its budget management. The city government is focused on economic recovery, improving services, and creating a sustainable fiscal future.

Detroit City Charter

The city’s government operates under the Detroit City Charter, which outlines the powers, responsibilities, and operations of the mayor, city council, and other city entities. The Charter is reviewed periodically to ensure it meets the needs of the city and its residents.

Contact Information
Mayor’s Office
  • Mayor: Mike Duggan
  • Role: As the executive head of the city, the mayor oversees day-to-day operations, city planning, budget approval, and policy initiatives.
  • Contact Information:
    • Phone: (313) 224-3400
Detroit City Council
  • Role: The City Council is the legislative body of Detroit. It consists of 9 members, including a President and President Pro Tempore, and is responsible for passing laws, approving budgets, and overseeing the mayor’s administration.
  • Contact Information:
    • City Council President: Mary Sheffield
    • City Council President Pro Tempore: James Tate
    • Council Office Phone: (313) 224-1245
City Clerk’s Office
  • Role: The City Clerk’s office manages elections, voter registration, public records, and city council meeting minutes.
  • Contact Information:
    • City Clerk: Janice M. Winfrey
    • Phone: (313) 224-3211
Detroit Police Department (DPD)
  • Role: The Detroit Police Department is responsible for law enforcement, crime prevention, and public safety in the city.
  • Contact Information:
    • Non-Emergency Number: (313) 267-4600
    • Emergency Number: 911
Detroit Fire Department (DFD)
  • Role: The Detroit Fire Department provides fire protection, emergency medical services, and disaster response.
  • Contact Information:
    • Non-Emergency Number: (313) 596-2900
    • Emergency Number: 911
Department of Public Works (DPW)
  • Role: DPW is responsible for maintaining public infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and street cleaning.
  • Contact Information:
    • Phone: (313) 224-3901
Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD)
  • Role: DWSD manages water and sewer systems for Detroit and surrounding areas.
  • Contact Information:
    • Phone: (313) 267-8000
Housing and Revitalization Department
  • Role: This department focuses on housing development, neighborhood revitalization, and creating affordable housing solutions.
  • Contact Information:
    • Phone: (313) 224-6380
Detroit Health Department
  • Role: The Detroit Health Department addresses public health concerns, provides health services, and promotes wellness initiatives in the city.
  • Contact Information:
    • Phone: (313) 876-4000
Detroit Department of Recreation and Parks
  • Role: This department manages Detroit’s public parks, recreational facilities, and community programs.
  • Contact Information:
    • Phone: (313) 224-1122
Detroit City Planning Commission
  • Role: The City Planning Commission is responsible for urban planning, zoning, and land use policies to guide the city’s growth.
  • Contact Information:
    • Phone: (313) 224-6225
These contacts are vital for residents and businesses looking to navigate city services, access information, or address concerns about Detroit’s governance, public safety, housing, and infrastructure.

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