If elected mayor, one of the first priorities Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield would take on is convincing state lawmakers to pass an entertainment tax on downtown events to offset a property tax cut for residents. Sheffield, who this week formally launched her long-awaited 2025 campaign for Detroit mayor, said she’s found a surprising amount of support for the concept among the business community. Charging fees on sporting events, concerts and other downtown activities could bring more benefits for Detroit’s neighborhoods, she said.

Sheffield's Path to Detroit's Prosperity

Entertainment Tax Initiative

Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield is determined to bring about positive change through an entertainment tax on downtown events. Reports from the Citizens Research Council of Michigan show that entertainment taxes are widespread among states and major cities across the country. Sheffield believes that by implementing this tax, the city can offset the property tax cut for residents while also generating revenue for neighborhood development. Last year, she asked District Detroit developers to volunteer a 2% surcharge on ticket sales from events at facilities managed by Olympia Development of Michigan, but they declined. State law makes it “impossible” to voluntarily pay an unauthorized tax or surcharge. However, there are signs of growing bipartisan support for the idea. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed a bill allowing voters in historically-Republican Kent County to increase a hotel tax to fund sports and entertainment venues. Other Detroit council members, such as Council Member Angela Whitfield-Calloway, have also backed the idea and are working with state Sen. Sylvia Santana and Sen. Mallory McMorrow to craft legislation.

Sheffield's approach to this initiative is focused on ensuring that the tax is strictly within the DDA boundary or the Central Business District, targeting visitors rather than residents. The idea is to reduce some of the operating millages within the city while using the entertainment tax to offset the amount being reduced. This theory is supported by many in Detroit, and Sheffield is committed to working with stakeholders to make it a reality. It would be a full-force effort similar to Mayor Duggan's proposal with the Land Value Tax, requiring a trip to Lansing to lobby for its implementation.

Relationship with Legislative Leaders

Mary Sheffield understands the importance of partnerships and collaborative efforts when it comes to Detroit's growth. She is looking forward to continuing to build relationships with state and federal partners to ensure that Detroit gets the funding and support it needs. She has great relationships already and is eager to build upon them to make sure that Detroit is at the forefront of everyone's conversation as funding is allocated and programs are created. Sheffield recognizes that she cannot achieve her goals without the support of these leaders and is committed to working together to make Detroit thrive.

When asked about her relationship with legislative leaders in Lansing, Sheffield emphasized the need for cooperation. She believes that by working together, they can address the challenges facing Detroit and bring about positive change. Sheffield is confident that her experience and leadership skills will enable her to build strong relationships and advocate for Detroit's interests.

Navigating Misogyny

Sheffield is aware of the challenges she may face as a woman running for mayor. However, she chooses not to feed into misogyny and instead focuses on the overwhelming amount of support she has received. As the youngest elected to City Council, she is not new to facing firsts and is committed to feeding into the positive response. Sheffield believes that Detroit is ready for a woman mayor and is determined to prove it through her leadership and actions.

Sheffield's campaign kickoff included speakers who emphasized Detroit's readiness for a woman in this role. Sheffield is confident that she can navigate any obstacles and lead the city forward. She is committed to using her platform to inspire and empower women and to show that they can achieve great things in leadership positions.

Entertainment World Partnerships

Sheffield's relationships with rappers like Icewear Vezzo, Peezy, Skilla Baby and others have developed naturally. She believes in being authentic and engaging with these individuals on a consistent basis. Entertainers and influencers can see when someone is not real, and Sheffield has built trust with them by being genuine and committed to making a difference.

Sheffield values these relationships because she understands that young people listen to these artists. By partnering with them, she can reach young people where they are and engage them in important conversations about education and civic engagement. Many of these artists have a passion for Detroit and want to give back. Sheffield is committed to working with them to push for positive change and utilize the young people's voice in the process.

Personal Growth and Experience

Sheffield's journey to becoming a mayoral candidate is a testament to her growth and determination. At the age of 26, she was first elected to Detroit City Council and has since faced various challenges and opportunities. She has learned the importance of failure as an opportunity to grow and learn, and has used her experiences to become a more effective leader.

Sheffield's time on the City Council has given her a unique perspective on the needs of the city and its residents. She is committed to using this knowledge to make Detroit a better place and is confident that she has the skills and experience to lead the city forward.