Tonight on The Detroit Evening Report, we cover a Detroit coalition’s efforts to spread the word about tax credits available to residents; Detroit Councilman Fred Durhal III’s announcement that he’s running for mayor and more.

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Detroit coalition spreads word on tax credits

The city of Detroit and community partners came together at Wayne Metro Community Action Agency in Detroit on Wednesday to encourage people to fill out their taxes this year to access credits and money.

The organizations are offering free tax services for households who make less than $67,000 a year.

Avec O’Brien, chief financial officer at United Way of Southeastern Michigan, says families receive money, but so does the community.

“Money that our families are using then to buy goods to engage in services that in the end result in making our economy our local economy bloom and thrive,” O’Brien said. “So, it helps all of us. We are a community.”

People can call 2-1-1 or visit the website getthetaxfacts.org to schedule an appointment before April 15.

Reporting by Nargis Rahman, WDET

Fred Durhal running for mayor

Detroit City Councilman Fred Durhal III announced to supporters Wednesday night his plans to run for mayor of Detroit. 

Durhal joins Council President Mary Sheffield and Heat and Warmth Fund CEO Saunteel Jenkins in the race. Mayor Mike Duggan is running for governor next year as an independent.

Belle Isle study aims to improve island’s accessibility

The results of a 2.5-year study are in, and some major changes could be coming to Belle Isle.

The study, conducted by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Belle Isle Conservancy, suggests relocating some parking lots to more popular locations and creating new bike lanes.

Conservancy CEO Meagan Elliot says one of the first changes to be made will be converting Central Avenue into what she calls a pedestrian promenade.

“So basically, like a walking stretch for everyone with shade and the ability to take your bike or roll down the center, as opposed to, you know, being a place to drive,” she said.

Elliot says other plans include the creation of more trails and improving wayfinding and direction signage. The changes are part of a 10-year plan to improve safety and mobility.

Immigrant Rights group calls out Duggan

The Michigan Immigrant Rights Center released a statement denouncing what they call anti-immigrant comments from Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan.

Duggan has in recent news referred to undocumented immigrants as “illegal.” The Center called the use of the word “inappropriate, dehumanizing, and an insult.”

Since 2010, immigrant advocates have encouraged press and government officials to drop the I-word. The release said Duggan should instead be thanking the immigrant community for contributing to the growth of the city. The Center says in 2022, undocumented immigrants contributed nearly $129 million in state and local taxes, and filled important jobs in manufacturing, construction and hospitality.

Submissions sought for Twin Cities Arab Film Festival

The woman-led contemporary arts organization Mizna is seeking film submissions for their 2025 Twin Cities Arab Film Festival. They are accepting narrative, documentary, experimental and animated films of feature and short lengths. They are looking for films made by filmmakers from the Southwest Asian and North African – or SWANA- community. All accepted submissions will be considered for Audience and Jury Awards. Submissions are due May 11. 

Mockery Zero Proof grand opening

A new nonalcoholic bottle shop and bar celebrated its Grand Opening on Thursday. Mockery Zero Proof opened in the Live6 neighborhood…featuring zero-proof beers and wine flights. The bar also serves alcohol free alternatives to traditional cocktails.  Mockery Zero Proof is located at 7400 W McNichols Road.