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Oral Presentation
Derrick J. Moss
Marygrove College

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INTRODUCTION
My name is Derrick Moss I am representing the Braile Community Block Club. I am
concerned about the lighting in my neighborhood. I am aware that it is a process, however it is
still dark in the neighborhood and is a safety concern. The new led lights are nice but does not
provide enough lighting in the neighborhood. My concern is there is a lot children in the
neighborhood, that walk to and from school as well as play and now that it is winter it is dark by
5 p.m. The other issue is the freeways are often dark, 94 & 96 expressway in some areas are
pitch black at night. There are Led lights that were installed on the Southfield Freeway back in
the summer that are not functioning. Some are working on one side but not the other I have
personally witnessed this while driving to work or going home.
STATE YOUR GOALS AND COVER/OUTLINE THE MAIN POINTS
My goal is to gain a better understanding of the public lighting epidemic. I have
witnessed a rash of crimes throughout my community as well as the surrounding community.
There has been high auto theft, armed robbery, there has also been fires started in some of the
vacant houses in my neighborhood. Some of the barriers or concerns I have is what can be done.
Furthermore, because the streets are not well lit response sometimes take an hour or longer for
emergency crews to respond to some of these calls. I do not recall any community engagement
from city leadership to see how it would affect our community. I know Mayor Duggan said he
would hire a personal consultant to evaluate this issue, however I feel decision were made
without much interest from the community.

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STATE SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS REGARDING THE ISSUE

My recommendation is to be in contact with the Detroit Public Lighting Department and
find out what we can do as a community to enhance the lighting around our residence. I am a
realist and understand that it takes time to fix a broken system but there must be a sense of
urgency to address this concern.
CONCLUSION
I would like to thank the committee for your time and I look forward to hearing your
feedback in the future.
The major points is finding solutions that will enhance the neighborhood while the city
continue to address the lighting issue. Create dialog with the Detroit Public Lighting Department
to find solution that would provide additional lighting in the neighborhood. And continue to stay
active.