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Residents say solar buyback, demolition notices led to inconsistent treatment and denied rights
Summary
Public commenters told the Detroit City Council they faced inconsistent enforcement and denied legal protections tied to the city’s solar program, alleging wrongful denial of a buyback, improper vacate procedures and opaque relocation offers.
Danielle Mertes, a resident, told the Detroit City Council during public comment that she faced what she called unfair treatment by the city related to its solar program and subsequent property actions. She said she was ruled ineligible for the program’s buyback, was not served an eviction notice, and was denied a six-month redemption period she believes she should have received.
The issue matters, residents said, because they believe the city’s handling of buyback and vacate notices affects property owners’ due-process rights and the equitable treatment of people displaced by demolition or redevelopment. Speakers urged clearer procedures and consistent enforcement.
Mertes said: "I was told I wasn't eligible for the buyback program. I never was served an eviction notice. I should have been eligible for a 6…
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