Tonight on The Detroit Evening Report, we highlight Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson’s announcement of her gubernatorial bid, the rise in Detroit home values, school closures due to freezing weather, and more.
Jocelyn Benson announces candidacy for governor
Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced early Wednesday that she is running for governor.
As a Democrat, her platform focuses on creating a government that serves all residents, lowering costs, and safeguarding individual rights and freedoms.
Benson gained nationwide recognition in 2020 when she stood firm in defending Michigan’s presidential election vote count amidst baseless allegations of fraud by Republicans.
She was first elected as Secretary of State in 2018 and re-elected in 2022. With Governor Gretchen Whitmer term-limited, Benson aims to succeed her in the next election.
Detroit home values experience a significant rise
Home values in Detroit rose by an average of 19% last year, according to Mayor Mike Duggan.
However, under Michigan law, property tax increases for most homeowners will only be around 3%.
Duggan highlighted that nearly every neighborhood in Detroit has experienced growth in home values, debunking the idea that progress is limited to downtown and Midtown.
He stated, “99% of our neighborhoods have seen home values rise by 40% in the past two years. Anywhere else, this would be considered incredible.”
Residential property values in the city increased by $1.4 billion last year, the second-largest annual increase on record.
Schools close due to bitterly cold weather
Frigid temperatures forced schools across metro Detroit to remain closed on Wednesday, giving students another day off.
Morning temperatures plunged below zero, and wind chills reached as low as -20 degrees, creating dangerous conditions that could cause frostbite within 30 minutes of exposure.
Schools made the decision to close to prevent students from standing at bus stops or walking in the freezing weather.
A cold weather advisory expired by noon, and temperatures are expected to climb into the low 20s on Thursday, allowing schools to resume normal operations.
Stellantis commits to building Dodge Durango in Detroit
The United Auto Workers (UAW) union announced a win for Detroit following negotiations with Stellantis.
The company has confirmed plans to manufacture the next-generation Dodge Durango SUV at its Detroit Assembly Complex on the city’s east side.
This decision revives a commitment initially included in the automaker’s 2023 contract, which former CEO Carlos Tavares later withdrew.
Additionally, Stellantis plans to reopen its Belvidere, Illinois assembly plant to produce a new mid-size pickup truck, further boosting manufacturing efforts.
Ben Johnson accepts Chicago Bears head coach position
Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has been named the new head coach of the Chicago Bears.
Johnson, known for designing the Lions’ powerful offense, has gained national attention over the past three seasons. Under his leadership, the Lions won 15 games this season, tying for the NFL’s best record.
The Chicago Bears, who finished their season with just five wins and 12 losses, interviewed 17 candidates before choosing Johnson.
Despite their struggles this year, the Bears are hoping Johnson can turn the team’s fortunes around.
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