Detroit Launches Largest Community Engagement Effort To Tap Input From Every Neighborhood

Michigan Advance

January 16, 2026

The transition team of Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield is asking residents, from every neighborhood, about their thoughts on long-term priorities that might shape her administration.

Sheffield’s Rise Higher Detroit survey, launched last week but released Wednesday, is being billed as the largest community survey effort in the city’s history. The city said the form will remain open for two months and will inform the mayor’s first-year priorities and strategies, with the aim of reaching those who have been historically left out of the decision-making process.

“This survey reflects the commitment I made throughout my campaign and my career in public service to listen and govern alongside the people of this city,” Sheffield said in a statement. “Detroiters deserve a government that is shaped by their voices, their experiences, and their priorities and this survey is one way we’re turning that commitment into action.”

The survey is available online but also can be filled out in person through community canvassing partners that will be around the city or at upcoming city events. Sheffield’s team is also partnering with Detroit Action, MI Poder and the Eastside Community Network to lead the on-the-ground effort. The surveys will be further available to residents at grocery stores, churches and other community spaces.

A series of community events is planned through February where residents can engage with Sheffield and her transition co-chairs, focused on priority topic areas.

The six priority areas include: Thriving neighborhoods, safe and just communities, reliable transportation and sustainable infrastructure, equitable economic and workforce development, robust education and youth opportunities, and open and accessible government.

Cindy Gamboa, the executive director of MI Poder, said the organization was proud to step up to assist Sheffield’s new tenure, “ensuring the opinions, concerns and voices of all Detroiters are heard.”

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