Detroit’s municipal budget process is now in full swing, and the city’s leadership wants residents to have a direct voice. Following the September Revenue Estimating Conference, Mayor Mary Sheffield’s administration has opened the public engagement phase for the Fiscal Year 2028 budget, which will run from July 1, 2027, through June 30, 2028.

Key dates and ways to participate

1. Annual Public Budget Meeting – September 28
The first major gathering will take place on Monday, Sept. 28 at 5 p.m. The meeting will be streamed live via Zoom (link: cityofdetroit.zoom.us/j/89044283108) and can also be joined by phone at +1 301 715 8592. Presenting departments include the Public Lighting Authority, Detroit Fire Department, Detroit Health Department, and Detroit Police Department.

2. District Budget Priority Forums
Each council district will host its own Zoom‑based forum where residents can discuss local priorities. Dates and times vary by district; check the City of Detroit website for the schedule.

3. Councilmember outreach
Many council members hold smaller information sessions and monthly meetings that touch on budget matters. Subscribe to their newsletters, listen for announcements at City Council meetings, or follow them on social media to stay informed.

4. Direct contact with elected officials
If attending a meeting is difficult, residents can email or call their City Council members. District contact information is available at detroitmi.gov/government/city-council. Written comments may also be sent to [email protected].

What the budget process looks like

The Budget Office within Detroit’s Office of the Chief Financial Officer is drafting the Mayor’s Proposed Annual Budget. After the public‑input phase, the budget and a Four‑Year Financial Plan will be presented to City Council in early March for review and adoption. This timeline gives residents ample opportunity to influence how resources are allocated to essential services such as public safety, health, lighting, and emergency response.

Why participation matters

Detroit’s budget decisions affect everyday life—from the reliability of streetlights to the readiness of fire and police departments. By sharing priorities, residents help ensure that limited funds are directed toward the programs that matter most to families, faith communities, and local businesses. The administration has emphasized that community input is a cornerstone of responsible stewardship and fiscal transparency.

Tips for effective input

• Prepare a concise statement of your priority and its impact on your neighborhood.
• Reference specific programs or departments when possible.
• Bring data or personal anecdotes that illustrate the need.
• Stay respectful and focused on solutions.

Detroit’s budget cycle is a rare chance for citizens to shape the city’s financial future. Whether you attend a Zoom forum, write to your councilmember, or submit written comments, your voice can help guide the allocation of resources for the next fiscal year.

Original reporting: BridgeDetroit — read the source article.