Platform

PUBLIC SAFETY

Every Detroiter deserves to feel safe—on their block, in their home, and in their daily lives. I support a public safety approach that centers both accountability and prevention. That means funding violence intervention programs, increasing neighborhood patrols where needed, and ensuring our first responders have the tools and training to serve with respect. We must also invest in mental health services and youth outreach to address root causes and keep our communities whole.

Close-up of the red and blue lights on top of a police car.
African American family counting money with the kids putting money into a piggy bank

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

As your City Council representative, I will work tirelessly to expand access to safe, stable, and affordable housing across Detroit. Housing is a human right, and Detroit families deserve options that reflect their income, needs, and dignity. I will fight to increase funding for affordable housing developments, support tenant protections against displacement and predatory practices, and push for city-level partnerships with land banks, developers, and community land trusts to ensure long-term housing affordability right here in District 2.

DRIVING ECONOMIC GROWTH

Detroit’s economic future must be built from the neighborhood up. I will support policies that create jobs for Detroiters, especially right here in District 2. From workforce development programs to small business grants, I’ll advocate for initiatives that empower residents and keep dollars circulating locally. I’ll also work to attract responsible development that complements—not replaces—our community values.

View of small businesses on Livernois in Detroit, including SkinbarVII.
State Representative and City Council candidate, Helena Scott, reading to school children

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Detroit’s future depends on investing in our neighborhoods—not just downtown. I will prioritize equitable community development that brings resources directly to District 2. That means improving streetscapes, upgrading parks, supporting local entrepreneurs, and strengthening neighborhood associations. I’ll work to ensure city investments uplift existing residents and small businesses while preventing displacement and preserving our unique community identity.

TACKLING BLIGHT

Blight is not just an eyesore—it’s a barrier to safety, investment, and pride in our neighborhoods. I will push for strategic, transparent use of city funds to demolish or rehab abandoned properties, while holding absentee owners accountable. I’ll also champion community-driven redevelopment, giving neighbors a say in what happens on their block. A cleaner, safer, and more vibrant District 2 starts with tackling blight head-on.

Detroit city council candidate helena scott tackling blight in Detroit

EDUCATION

I’m passionate about improving public education. I will fight for the interest of our children they deserve a quality Pre-school thru K-12 education and also the opportunity to attend a affordable College or University. I will work on legislation advocating for students getting the tools and resources needed to excel and thrive in school and at home. I will advocate for funding to be restored to 2011 levels across the board prior to the Synder administration cuts in education.

-Curriculums

I’m dedicated to improving education curriculums to increase overall student literacy, retention and graduation rates. I will focus on comprehensive legislation to develop curriculums that promote an environment for students to excel in reading by funding reading intervention programs and other learning tools instrumental in increasing the reading levels for our children. Improved education funding legislation will provide the ability to assess where students are and develop comprehensive plans for intervention and development that create positive out comes from implementation and assist in improving students reading levels and aid in the current 3rd Grade Reading Law.

 

-Wrap Around Services

I’m committed to developing funding and resources for afterschool programs for supplemental educational programs for tutors in reading and math, the arts, dance and band. It’s critical to provide funding for meals for children in addition to needed transportation due to schools closing in local neighborhoods.

“Real Women Read” for Highland Park School – George Washington Carver Academy