During a recent government meeting, community members voiced their concerns on various pressing issues, including cybersecurity, voter turnout, housing conditions, and community engagement.
Harold Stone Mayfield, a student at WC3 and Harvard, raised concerns about the city’s cybersecurity measures, particularly regarding quantum security. He highlighted a significant contract worth approximately $2.7 million for data and event monitoring, questioning whether the city is adequately prepared to protect its resources against emerging cyber threats. The committee acknowledged his concerns and promised to connect him with the Department of Innovation and Technology for further discussion.
Community advocate Mister Foster emphasized the importance of civic engagement, advocating for more opportunities for residents to meet candidates running for office. He stressed the need for debates to enhance voter awareness and participation, particularly in light of the recent low voter turnout of just 15% in the city.
Several callers also addressed the issue of voter engagement. Steven Harring criticized the reliance on out-of-state contracts and urged the city to prioritize local businesses. He echoed concerns about the low voter turnout, calling for more effective strategies to encourage participation in upcoming elections.
William M. Davis called for better tracking of wrongful arrests by the Detroit Police Department and highlighted the need for increased voter turnout, noting that some precincts reported participation as low as 28%. He urged city officials to take action to ensure that Detroit's voice is heard in statewide elections.
Betty A. Varner advocated for Auntie Nee's Community House, which is facing auction. She requested support from city officials to help save the community resource, emphasizing its positive impact on local residents.
Another caller raised concerns about unsafe living conditions due to negligent landlords and the need for immediate action to address these issues. City officials responded by highlighting recent efforts, including the passage of a tenants' rights ordinance aimed at holding landlords accountable for maintaining habitable living conditions.
The meeting underscored the community's desire for increased transparency, accountability, and engagement from city officials, as residents seek to address critical issues affecting their neighborhoods.