Detroit City Council is taking a bold step to make the process of opening a small business easier and more affordable.
Watch Simon Shaykhet's video report: Detroit council approves plan to make licensing easier for small business owners
It's part of a goal to help more Detroiters invest in the city's business opportunities.
Councilman Fred Durhal III co-sponsored the ordinance to create a better path for those seeking to start a small business.
He said new rules help with less paperwork, interest-free options for fees, removal of licensing redundancy, simplified food service regulations, improved patio service regulations and more.
Not requiring business owners to apply for a license every year, but extended to two years. Now, you dont have to apply to state and city health departments. The state health license is adequate enough," Durhal said.
Another major change, he said, is that there will be a business concierge team that will walk owners from start to finish and help navigate the process.
Detroit also celebrated its 190th Motor City Match awardee on Wednesday. Tiffani Patterson, a proud mom of two, cut the ribbon to a new wine shop on Kercheval.
I feel really good. Really good," Patterson said.
At the location, there will be a tasting room for Detroit-made wine, made possible by $75,000 in grant funding for a second-generation Detroit business owner.
Id say keep pushing forward. Being a part of Motor City Match was very helpful. It helped me get through the different channels to be open today," Patterson said.
Council said this step is a result of a lot of discussion with business owners who are looking to support more neighborhood investment.
A high-profile bill involving first responders passed the state Senate last week.
Watch Simon Shaykhet's video report: Fight to bring more firefighters to the state is back on in the Michigan House
Its now being debated in the Michigan House. It deals with addressing what firefighters call a major shortage in staffing levels across our state.
Firefighters like those here in Hazel Park are again sounding the alarm about staffing levels in Michigan compared to other states. Now, they have a new message for lawmakers in Lansing.
Ive fought fires with 3 people. Not acceptable. We got the 4th of July coming up. Call volume increases, says Hazel Park Fire Capt. Anthony Galati.
Galati is no stranger to 7 News Detroit viewers. Last December I met him at the state Capitol as firefighters across our state rallied to require staffing levels to be discussed during contract negotiations between communities and fire unions.
PREVIOUS REPORT: The fight to bring on more firefighters in Michigan after bill passes in state Senate The fight to bring on more firefighters in Michigan after bill passes in state senate
Inside his station, Galati said, troubling staffing shortages also involve dispatch. He says in some cases, they have to handle dispatch while fighting a fire.
I would appreciate it if my tax dollars would go towards the safety of everyone, says Tyler Davis, who says hes concerned about staffing.
As I reported months ago efforts to pass legislation fell short last year, but progress is now being made in Lansing.
Supporters say other Midwest states have double the number of full-time firefighters per 100,000 people, but opponents of the legislation consider this issue best left to individual communities.
What they are asking for is mandating local communities have to discuss it, and talk staffing. That really is something that should be discussed on a community-by-community basis, says Sen. Jim Runestad of White Lake Twp. (R).
We know staffing levels are low and not where they should be. We want to make sure we have every tool available, says Rep. Regina Weiss of the 5th District (D).
While lawmakers continue to debate both sides, Galati says time is ticking. Hes grateful his community and others like Warren took steps to improve safety, but fears for others who may be in worse shape.
So far, a House vote could happen mid-July at the earliest.
We used to do 1,400 calls a year. Now, 3,600. Its a matter of time before somebody gets hurt. Why do we have to wait until we get to that point? he asks.
Firefighters say that with more work to be done, they are willing to travel back to the capital to have their voices heard in person.
An ugly confrontation caught on video between a group of women downtown and a candidate for Detroit mayor is now going viral.
See Simon Shaykhet's video report: Video of confrontation between Detroit mayoral candidate, women going viral
The early morning incident is now under police investigation with allegations of assault and more.
I talked with people on both sides of the escalating situation to find out what they say really happened and where police stand with their investigation.
Captured on cell phone video and now shared numerous times on social media, the altercation was between several women whove asked not to be identified and Detroit mayoral candidate Jonathan Barlow.
In the video shared with me by the woman holding the phone, Barlow is seen approaching, and then she says this followed.
Web extra: TikTok video shows Barlow's interaction
Hes walking toward me. Im screaming. He slaps my phone out of my hand. Hits me in the face. Cuts my lip, she says.
It was just before 2 a.m. on June 28th when the scene played out near Fort Street in the Rivertown area.
The woman, whom Ive confirmed filed a police report, claims Barlow exchanged words after initially trying to socialize, then slapped her phone out of her hand.
Hes harassing us. You see him following us while theyre screaming, she says.
Its a claim Barlow adamantly denies.
It was actually her friend that knocked the phone out of her hand, Barlow says. I was trying to protect both of us. We both got knocked at the same time.
Barlow goes on to say that he was leaving a fraternity party, where he helped park cars, when he got into conversation with the group.
He says he did not escalate with violence and was himself victimized.
Assuming I wanted to engage her friends was not the case. I was simply campaigning and moving cars around, he says.
Barlow says footage from his own phone proves he did not act in a hostile manner, and hes willing to share that with police.
As a candidate for mayor, he tells us its not the first time hes faced a false claim.
Police confirm allegations of assault and destruction of property are being looked into.
Barlow says he still has not been contacted by Detroit police, but is willing to answer any questions.
The rapid growth of Sheetz gas station and convenience shops is a hot topic across metro Detroit.
Heated meetings on numerous occasions left some communities split on whether to welcome the massive chain.
Watch Simon Shaykhet's full report in the video player below: Inside Sheetz: Gas station chain's expansion continues to draw mixed feelings
Sheetz allowed us inside their Romulus location to see their business up close. They say theyre excited to keep expanding across metro Detroit, as some opponents continue to push back.
Inside a Sheetz location where customers come to buy gas, drinks, food and more, owners told me theres a system to how things are done and meticulously executed to serve the community.
The chain has numerous locations either open or in the works in cities like Warren, Taylor, Ypsilanti, Eastpointe, Roseville, Royal Oak and more.
Outside, I asked some customers what brought them to Sheetz.
Today, its cigarettes. They have good prices with their rewards card, one customer said.
Another customer said, I like their subs here and their cold brews.
A third customer told me, Its a great place, overall place. You can grab food and get gas. All of that.
But their answers are in contrast to community stakeholders in some other cities, where a zoning board or commission heard from critics of the chain. Weve covered several meetings that have at times been emotional, with citizens voicing opposition to the 24-hour shops.
In Wixom, where Sheetz was voted down, Gerald Newby stopped to fill up at locally owned Wixom Quick Stop & Go.
Ive come here 34 years. Its more convenient, right around the corner, Newby said. Hes (owner) based in Michigan. I like to give my money to Michigan companies.
Another customer at the local business owns a towing company.
Big corporations like that are going to demolish the little guys that are trying to make a living, he said.
I come here for the service you dont get anywhere else. Prices are very competitive. Look at this store: they have everything here. Everything is nice, neat and organized, customer Charlie Alam said.
Business owner Eddie Osman gave me a tour of his station, where he says 15 employees have worked for more than 15 years, and community ties are strong.
Wixom Stop & Go has everything. Ive been at this location 33 years, Osman said.
Osman says Sheetz wasnt a good fit nearby for reasons including an existing range of options.
This area has 17 gas stations in a 3.9-mile radius, he said. The people had spoken we are not against competition. Its beautiful. Fair to the consumer, but it has to be fair and healthy competition.
I asked Sheetz for an interview to talk about their growing footprint and goals for expansion, including 2,000 more store-level jobs. The Pennsylvania-based company has roughly 780 stores in seven states, with a history of 73 years in business.
As we daydream about what our presence could look like over the next six years, we could open 60 new stores. We are that optimistic, said Ryan Sheetz, executive vice president of marketing and supply chain
There are a lot of characteristics about these communities that resonate with us. We see a lot of people who are on the go, convenient solutions and willing to get gas and food at great places.
I also asked for their response to Osman and others in opposition.
Pushback to retail growth is not uncommon. What we see is and focus on is lets engage in appropriate and respectful ways, because we are committed to being a part of that community, Ryan Sheetz said.
I asked Ryan what his biggest message to opponents and other business owners who say they wont be able to survive.
We embrace competition and have a lot of empathy for people who are competing. This is a tough business every day. Competition is ultimately a really great thing, Ryan Sheetz said.
But Osman told me theres more to consider each time another gas station closes. He and other owners have been a vocal presence at meetings.
Do you know who ends up paying in the end? The taxpayers. The city, state, and county in five to seven years after they shut down, will have to do the cleanup for it in the millions of dollars, Osman said. If they are looking to invest and care about the state of Michigan and their community, they will buy and own and take care of that property. Like me 33 years.
Ryan Sheetz says most of their locations are leased instead of owned.
Related Story: Royal Oak approves Sheetz gas station at 14 Mile and Coolidge Royal Oak approves controversial Sheetz gas station at 14 Mile and Coolidge
My preference would be to own as many locations as we can, but thats not the reality, Ryan Sheetz said. We lease more sites than we own. Thats the nature of the business.
One community yet to make a final decision is Sterling Heights.
Related Story: Plan to build Sheetz in Shelby Township draws mixed reaction from residents Plan to build Sheetz in Shelby Township draws mixed reaction from residents
Sheetz has expressed interest in locating in the southeast corner of Metro Parkway and Mound, Sterling Heights City Manager Mark Vanderpool said.
I also asked Vanderpool why he believes some communities have fewer hurdles to clear.
Theres some due diligence, but in our case, unlike other Sheetz locations, theres not a building to demolish or close to residential property, Vanderpool said.
Sheetz maintains its an ultimate one-stop shop, offering top-level convenience, quality food and drinks, with fuel at great prices, smiling faces and great service.
And while views can differ, they insist areas where theyve opened are enjoying what they have to offer.
We are continuously rated as one of the top employers in the country, means a lot as a family-owned and operated business, Ryan Sheetz said. We have a wonderful philanthropic effort. We lead with our values and put them into action.
We've introduced you to several heroes who stopped a lone gunman at Crosspointe Community Church in Wayne on Sunday.
Watch Simon Shaykhet's video report: Man who hit church gunman with truck speaks exclusively with 7 News Detroit
Deacon Richard Pryor is the first one who came into contact with the shooter, hitting the shooter with his truck.
Pryor opened up for the first time about making the split-second decision to run over the gunman with his pickup truck.
Watch our full interview with Richard Pryor in the video below Extended interview: Man who hit gunman with truck outside Wayne church shares story
Soon as he got out, I saw the fatigues and gun on his hip. He pulled his weapon out of the vehicle," Pryor said.
But, he said his first memory of an attempted mass shooting on Sunday is of an eerie conversation he had with the shooter before the gunman started firing.
I verbally pulled up and said, 'Are you OK?' He doesnt respond. Just kind of looked at me," Pryor said.
Seconds later, with no prior police or military training, Pryor said he felt a calling to jump into action. He hit the gas and ran over the shooter, who would eventually fire numerous rounds on Sunday.
Do you recall feeling, if you didnt intervene, people would die?" I asked.
"I knew but I didnt know," he said.
That action temporarily stopped the shooter, who responded by shooting into Pryor's truck. Moments later, the shooter was killed by a security guard.
Watch below: Church security guard speaks out after shooting and killing armed man Church security guard speaks out after shooting and killing armed man
Ive realized how much damage he came to do. Especially after the fact. Generations of families were in this church," Pryor said.
Although another guard was wounded, Pryor said he's thankful more people weren't hurt, or worse yet, killed.
Watch below: Church member who was shot confronting gunman in Wayne shares story Church member who was shot confronting gunman in Wayne shares story
Im not a hero. Thats the security staff, Jay, John and others that eliminated this man," Pryor said.
The man charged in the horrific murder of a high-profile Detroit neurosurgeon will appear in court for a preliminary exam next week.
Watch Simon Shaykhet's video report: Man charged in murder of Detroit Dr. Devon Hoover to appear in court next week
Dr. Devon Hoover was shot and killed at his Detroit home in April 2023.
Desmond Burks is facing multiple charges, including first-degree murder.
PREVIOUS REPORT: Road rage victim's family speaks out after suspect also charged in Hoover murder Road rage victim's family speaks out after suspect also charged in Hoover murder
A friend of Hoover, Alan Kaniarz, is still heartbroken over the loss and recalls a final photo he took of him.
I just thought it cant be bad to have a picture of Devon. Turns out, that was one of the last ones taken, pretty sad. Once I learned of his murder, I felt like I got the air knocked out of me, Kaniarz said.
Prosecutors say Burks had an intimate relationship with Hoover and say phone records played a key role as part of a massive amount of evidence gathered. The investigation spanned five states and three countries.
Kaniarz explained what the case going to court means for Hoovers family and friends.
Speaking for myself, Im wondering why it took so long. The murderer took his life without regard for all the good hes done on this planet, Kaniarz said.
Prosecutor Kym Worthy has said the case has more than 100 hours of video interviews, surveillance from 24 locations, over 300 pieces of evidence, more than 134 search warrant requests, a Range Rover, luxury watches, and multiple terabytes of evidence.
Someone took his life. That family lost a brother and son, said Steve Dolunt, a retired assistant chief with the Detroit Police Department.
I asked Dolunt about the bloody scene at Hoovers Boston Edison neighborhood home and how investigators examined reports of him being shot twice in the head.
Its not just going to lock up a bad guy. You break everything down like you see on TV and try to put everything together, Dolunt said.
Former prosecutor and law professor Adam Wright pointed out that loved ones will be learning more details, but some info will be held back.
Many times, a prelim can show the strength of the governments case or its weakness, Wright said. The evidence theyve been gathering over the last year was to determine how the murder occurred, why, and the basis for the belief the defendant committed the crime.
Wright says the goal is to present enough evidence to go to trial.
Hes gone. Theres a huge void left in the world because hes not here. Its not going to bring back my friend, a great doctor, people that could walk again because of an operation he performed, and had a way better quality of life, because of some neurosurgery he performed, Kaniarz said.
Burks is also currently locked up on separate murder charges as well for allegedly punching and killing a driver in a road rage case.
A plea deal in this case could still be negotiated after the preliminary exam or even after trial begins, but its unknown how likely that could be.
A ribbon cutting happened today at the location of the brand new Michigan Fertility Institute in the city of Livonia.
We were there as the community and several mayors welcomed the owner for that special event.
Located on Farmington Road, the facility is bringing state-of-the-art technology and highly experienced staff to the area to perform egg, sperm and embryo freezing, IVF treatments, genetic testing, donor programs and more.
The owner of the institute, Dr. Ali Bazzi, tells us that he wanted to choose a location that could be easily accessible for everyone in southeast Michigan.
The institute is focused on a personalized approach, guided by expertise, empathy and support. Livonias mayor is also praising the major investment in the community.
"We wanted to create a space, a fertility practice in a centralized location where people not only from Livonia can come, and also have a more private setting. We are hoping this will be at least a 40-50 employee practice," said Dr. Bazzi.
For more information on the institute, click here.
Bringing fathers together after devastating losses in the city of Detroit, the police department is hosting an event on Saturday to honor those whose children have died as a result of violent crimes.
Watch Simon Shaykhet's video report: Detroit police hosting brunch for fathers who lost children to violence crimes
As Fathers Day approaches, theres a pain for some dads thats difficult to put into words.
The father of 23-year-old college graduate Jordan Thornhill says his heart has been broken since July 2024, when a block party shooting took Thornhills life. He told me he wont give up until he gets justice for his son.
I wish that it could just be a day of recognizing fathers without having your child murdered in the background, Andre Thornhill said.
Watch our previous coverage on Jordan Thornhill in the video player below: MSU Grad gunned down at block party
Andre Thornhill says a party at Cherrylawn and Chalfonte streets left his family crushed. With the weekend drawing near, hes as focused as ever on Jordan Thornhills killer being caught while still being present for his other children.
I wont rest until we have someone in custody or someone is held responsible for the shooting of Jordan, Andre Thornhill said.
During our interview, Andre Thornhill shared that hes grateful to those offering support including Detroit police. On Saturday at 1 p.m., theyll be hosting a brunch for fathers still healing after losing a son or daughter to violence including shootings.
They are going to be able to grieve and heal together in a safe space, said Jasmin Barmore, Detroit polices director of media relations.
Barmore told me each father grieves differently but often, their hurt is overlooked. This Fathers Day will be different and she says Detroits finest are working hard to solve all cases.
"We want dads to be able to support one another because they are walking in the same shoes. Its a group I dont think anybody wants to be a part of, Barmore said.
The event means a lot for fathers like Andre Thornhill.
It means they are interested in solving my sons case. Not only his but solving the other fathers case, he said.
Previous coverage: After WXYZ shares communication frustrations of block party victims' families, DPD creates new unit New DPD unit will focus on communication with families of crime victims
Detroit police told me this event is also about listening to fathers who are still coping with grief.
With more protests planned in the name of No Kings day, state leaders are weighing in with strong views.
On Friday, I talked with our states attorney general and head of the Michigan Republican Party. Both shared a message about the need for peace.
We are so lucky to live in a country where we have a First Amendment, fundamental right to make our voices heard and to go out and protest the government if we dont agree with everything that the government is doing. But we do ask people do it lawfully, peacefully, Attorney General Dana Nessel said.
Ive seen images of these protesters throwing bricks and cement blocks off of passways, down on police cars. Now its not a peaceful protest throwing bottles and rocks and fireworks at the police, Sen. Jim Runestad said. So what is going to happen here, I dont know."
Nessel and Runestad told me theyll be closely monitoring protests both in Michigan and across the country.
We're getting a look inside the brand new space within the Hudson's Detroit development along Woodward Avenue in Downtown Detroit.
The massive project is now welcoming guests into the event space called The Department at Hudson's. Officials say the venue is achieving a world-class experience while holding a sense of nostalgia for so many Detroiters.
Watch Simon Shaykhet's full report in the video player below: 'Paying homage to history.' See inside the new event space at Hudson's Detroit
Inside the building, you can feel the nostalgia everywhere you look. Even in the kitchen, you'll find the famous JL Hudson's Maurice Salad, except this one has a modern twist.
VIDEO: See inside The Department at Hudson's in the video below See inside The Department at Hudson's Detroit
"I call it the culinary wonderland, with 10,000 square feet of kitchen space," Jerry Cremin from Forte Belanger, which handles the food and beverage for The Department, told me.
Why bring back the JL Hudsons Maurice salad?" I asked.
"Im attracted to the venues of legacy and rich history," he said.
Under the watchful eye of expert chefs in a state-of-the-art kitchen, The Department at Hudson's offers 56,000 square feet of event space across three floors.
High-tech equipment is carefully placed to optimize what staff can work with for a wide range of guests, including major companies that book events.
"One of the great things about this venue is how customizable it is," Cremin said.
VIDEO: Hear more from Jerry Cremin on the kitchen and event space below: Web extra: Jerry Cremin talks about food offerings at The Department at Hudson's Detroit
"Weve built a development thats going to be creating so many memories," Francesca Eid, the vice president of experience for Bedrock, said. "What youll see throughout this development, and here in The Department, is we really wanted to make sure we are paying homage to history."
The Hudson's Department Store was a staple for Downtown Detroit, and now, the new skyscraper and building will be a destination for parties big and small.
Inside, people will see a modern take on the art-deco chandeliers, along with dynamic balcony views, welcoming all who visit.
"The Department is comprised of the first-floor lobby, second floor where we are standing and a third floor. You can host an event with as few as six people or as many as 2,000. Five halls are specifically here on the second floor," Eid said.
VIDEO: Hear more from Francesca Eid on the vision for The Department below Web extra: Francesca Eid talks about The Department at Hudson's Detroit
Around the corner, I met beverage director Jacob Feitler, who has been perfecting his craft for 20 years. No stranger to Detroit, he tells me this new venue offers an elevated experience serving select spirits.
The history of the location also inspired a signature cocktail he offered to make as part of our tour. The drink was once sold at Hudson's decades ago.
The orange punch partment. Every month, they served 30,000 gallons. Combining vodka, ginger liqueur, orange concentrate, vanilla, lemon. Clarifying with milk. A beautiful, silky, smooth cocktail," Feitler said.
Traveling through the newly constructed building, I was struck by the size and scope of what's now open here. A tower next door is still in the works, set to open in 2027 with the five-star Detroit EDITION Hotel and EDITION Residences.
While movement toward completion is still underway, in other parts of the building, a sense of Detroit pride is already fully cementedfrom the kitchen to the large entertaining space, a modern focal point to downtown in a city rich with culture.
The 1950s and 60s, when Hudsons was in its heyday, we are just continuing to build on the history of what was here. To attract events, not just locally but globally," Eid said.
In addition to attracting visitors inside, developers say this is also an opportunity to remake the skyline here in Detroit, something so many can enjoy.
Healing continues for the Cipriano family in Farmington Hills. It's been 13 years since a baseball bat attack killed father Robert Cipriano and left his wife, Rose, and son Salvatore with critical injuries.
Watch Simon's full piece in the video player below: 'We cant give up.' Healing continues for family after 2012 baseball bat attack
The couples adopted son, Tucker, and friend Mitchell Young were convicted and sentenced to life without parole.
I sat down with Rose recently to talk about the upcoming annual 5K that's been a source of support for more than a decade.
"Lot of kindness, lot of thoughtfulness. Consideration. Facebook also, and I'm shocked at how much this has continued," Rose said.
From her back porch, Rose Cipriano is opening up about the long journey her family has taken and the tremendous support theyve received from the community.
"It helps with money spent for caregivers to help my son Salvatore for his daily needs," Rose said.
We do a lot of holistic treatments. A lot of doctors we see are in Canada, Plymouth, those are all by cash. Not insurance covered," she said.
Rose said he is on a feeding tube and needs medicine and supplements daily.
Salvatore, an amazing son to Rose, has steadily worked to become more independent after injuries that impacted everything from walking to speech.
He now works daily at improving a variety of skills.
He had four surgeries in 6 weeks. Just last fall, four brain surgeries. We were in the hospital a lot. Then, two different rehabs after that. Again, overnight, being somewhere to help him get back to where he was. Hes been through a lot," she said.
You just keep going. Keep pushing and being proactive," Rose added.
Rose also talked about her recovery process since the tragedy.
2012, I went through rehab, and I was in a coma, same as my son. So, Salvatores needs are greater now with all the surgeries.
Emotional support and the value of staying positive cannot be overstated. Recently, Sal and other family members traveled to Indiana for his sister Isabellas college graduation.
Support for the family also continues with the Cipriano Classic 5K run/walk. The event is once again taking place this year on Friday, June 6 at the Farmington YMCA at 12 Mile and Farmington Road.
It begins at 7 p.m. and each year, it raises money needed for medical bills.
Getting the word out, and getting the run going again, every year is huge. Its a lot of work. Theres also the people that join in," said Rose.
She added, "Theres days that are very hard. So, it gives us more courage.
Sal's caregiver, Jennifer Beier, also talked to us about her time spent working with Sal on his recovery and how he now uses his phone to help communicate.
Jennifer says she loves his sense of humor and likes to be that social part of his day-to-day.
His biggest thing now is working on getting off the feeding tube and being able to swallow again," she says.
Rose says the family continues to recover and fight for the future.
We cant give up, I cant give up. Salvatore cant give up ... we dont know what the next day shows or brings in. Its part of the recovery of brain surgery. You dont know. Hes still going through recovery from 2012," she said.
Several Southeast Michigan counties and the city of Ann Arbor are pushing back against a new order from U.S. Homeland Security that labels them as "sanctuary jurisdictions."
Watch Simon Shaykhet's video report: Michigan counties dispute DHS 'sanctuary jurisdiction' claims
The DHS order states that sanctuary jurisdictions are "undermining rule of law and endangering lives of Americans and law enforcement." It names Oakland, Wayne, and Washtenaw counties, along with the city of Ann Arbor, among those who must review and revise their policies.
"Detroit is not a sanctuary city. It's a welcoming city. Not a sanctuary city," said Mary Carmen Munoz, with Latin Americans for Social & Economic Development in Southwest Detroit.
Munoz's organization serves approximately 17,000 immigrants in Southwest Detroit.
"Confusion is a major factor, contributing to fear," Munoz said.
Wayne County officials believe their inclusion on the list may be outdated. A spokesperson stated, "The Sheriff's Office implemented policy updates several months ago we believe the county's inclusion on the DHS list may not reflect current practices."
Oakland County's executive and sheriff issued a joint statement saying, "We are not a sanctuary jurisdiction. We are confident that the county's policies and practices comply with federal law."
Ann Arbor Mayor Chris Taylor questioned the city's inclusion on the DHS list.
"I'd ask them, but bottom line, where we have legal obligations to act, we of course follow legal obligations," Taylor said.
The mayor emphasized Ann Arbor's welcoming stance toward immigrants while acknowledging federal authority.
FULL INTERVIEW: Ann Arbor Mayor Christopher Taylor on Department of Homeland Security calling them a sanctuary city FULL INTERVIEW: Ann Arbor Mayor Christopher Taylor on Department of Homeland Security calling them a sanctuary city
"We want immigrants to be here and encourage them to come," Taylor said. "We also recognize federal law is superior to state and local law."
Immigration law expert Reggie Pacis, with Detroit-based Butzel Law, expressed concerns about the lack of funding for added enforcement and training for local agencies.
"The community itself is not encouraging people to come and be protected from immigration status," Pacis said.
Pacis also worries about potential negative impacts on public safety.
"The concern I have is the chilling effect of reporting criminal activity. If you have a community not willing to report crimes because they're afraid someone might question immigration status, then the whole purpose of protecting people from crime is defeated," Pacis said.
I reached out to a spokesperson for Immigration & Customs Enforcement for an interview, but haven't received a response.
This story was reported by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
Huge crowds are expected May 30 through June 1 for the downtown Detroit Grand Prix.
Watch Simon Shaykhet's video report: 'A lot of planning.' Officials say safety at Detroit Grand Prix is top priority
With the race event almost here, were learning more about the safety planning thats been underway for months.
Detroit police and fire say great attention to detail is involved in securing the Grand Prix, drawing upon years of experience.
Detroit police say more than 150,000 people over three days are expected to attend the Grand Prix this year.
With traffic coming in, we have to make sure we have routes alternative to Jefferson. Officers are there to ensure traffic flow is calm," said Detroit Police Asst. Chief Franklin Hayes
Detroits fire marshal is doing a large number of inspections of food trucks, gathering spots, and there will be two fire engines set up on site.
Safety is the top focus, also for Detroit Police, who plan a stepped-up presence of officers in uniform and plain clothes. There's also a plan to have advanced metal detectors on site.
Visitors are reminded to expect crowds and avoid speeding when coming to and from downtown.
"In terms of challenges what are you up against?" I asked Detroit Police Assistant Chief Charles Fitzgerald.
"150,000 for the entire weekend, but remember the draft was 750,000. We plan and plan. Worked it to a T and know exactly where we are putting our officers," he said.
This race has taken place since 1982 and is back downtown for the third year, thanks to many private and public partnerships.
Every year, we do an after-action meeting to go over lessons learned or talk about adjusting traffic signals, pedestrian flow, etc. So a lot of planning and partners," Hayes added.
Login
