Every year, the City of Detroit creates a budget that determines how public money will be spent on city services, programs, operations, and infrastructure.

The budget process begins with city departments identifying needs and priorities. The mayor then proposes a budget based on projected revenue, operating costs, long-term goals, and legal obligations.

Detroit City Council reviews the proposed budget, holds public discussions and hearings, and approves the final version through a public vote.

The city budget helps fund services including:

• Police and fire
• Parks and recreation
• Road maintenance
• Transit
• Housing and neighborhood programs
• Public health services
• City staffing and operations

The City of Detroit receives funding from several sources.

Major sources include:

• Property taxes
• City income taxes
• State revenue sharing
• Federal and state grants
• Service fees and permits
• Enterprise systems such as water and sewer operations

Some funding is unrestricted and can support general city operations, while other funding sources are legally restricted to specific uses.

For example, grant funding often can only be used for the project or program it was awarded for.

City governments must follow laws and regulations that determine how public money can be used.

Some funding sources are legally restricted to specific purposes. In addition, cities must budget for required expenses such as:

• Public safety operations
• Debt payments
• Pension obligations
• Infrastructure maintenance
• Contractual obligations

Federal and state grants also come with rules about how funds can be spent and reported. Because of these restrictions, money allocated for one purpose often cannot legally be moved to another.

City governments use different types of official actions depending on the issue.

Ordinance

A local law that creates rules or requirements residents and businesses must follow.

Resolution

An official statement or action by City Council that expresses a position, approves something, or directs action, but does not usually create a law.

Executive Order

A directive issued by the mayor to manage city government operations or establish administrative policy.

Law

A broader term that can include ordinances and other legally enforceable rules.

Each serves a different purpose within city government.

Most city laws begin as proposed ordinances introduced through Detroit City Council.

The process typically includes:

1. Introduction of legislation
2. Committee review and discussion
3. Public hearings or input
4. City Council vote
5. Approval or veto by the mayor

Once approved, city departments are responsible for implementing and enforcing the law.

Public projects often involve many legal, financial, and administrative steps before work can begin.

Projects may require:

• Funding approval
• Public hearings
• Engineering and design work
• Contractor bidding processes
• Environmental review
• Legal review
• Coordination with state or federal agencies

Cities are required to follow public procurement and transparency laws designed to ensure fairness, accountability, and responsible use of taxpayer dollars.

Residents can review:

• City Council agendas and legislation
• Public budget documents
• Public hearings and meetings
• City financial reports

Many city decisions are discussed and voted on during public meetings that residents can attend in person or watch online.