Why Detroit needs more money — and how it could be raised

The Metro

Why Detroit needs more money — and how it could be raised

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Published on Feb 4, 2026, 4:11:59 PM
Total time: 00:16:47

Episode Description

Detroit has a lot of needs, including things like bus transit, policing and security, and trash pickup. Those things cost money — money that can be difficult to come up with in a city of relative poverty. But with more people spending time in Detroit, and even moving to the city, it also has more opportunity to raise revenue.

The Citizens Research Council investigated whether a sales tax could benefit residents by generating $72 million a year. Madhu Anderson is the council's senior research associate for local government affairs. She believes a sales tax isn't a great idea, but offered other possible ways Detroit could raise revenue. Anderson spoke with The Metro's Sam Corey.

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"The Metro" covers local and regional news and current affairs, arts and cultural events and topics, with a commitment to airing perspectives and uncovering stories underreported by mainstream media in Detroit.