The Detroit Regional Chamber invited five candidates for Detroit mayor to the 2025 Mackinac Policy Conference to discuss their vision for business and development in the city. 

One Detroit contributors Stephen Henderson and Nolan Finley moderated the discussion, which included Detroit City Council member Fred Durhal III, former Detroit Police Chief James Craig, Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield, nonprofit CEO Saunteel Jenkins, and Rev. Solomon Kinloch, Jr. of Triumph Church. 

Candidates not included in the debate are DaNetta Simpson, a two-time mayoral candidate, businessman Jonathan Barlow, businessman Joel Haashiim, attorney Todd Perkins, and Rogelio Landin, who is running as a write-in. 

The candidates discussed Detroit’s business and development community during the debate, answering questions about how to use tax credits and other subsidies to fuel investment and growth in the city. 

Several of the candidates discussed the need to restructure or reform the city’s tax abatement programs, as well as the need to invest in public-private partnerships. Many of Detroit’s tax abatement programs will begin to expire in 2027, with over half expiring by 2030. They also emphasized collaboration with residents and neighborhoods, and the importance of fostering a more business-friendly environment.

The five candidates also shared their thoughts on how Mayor Mike Duggan’s administration has handled business and development and what they might change. They talked about investing in neighborhoods, growing the city’s middle class, reducing poverty, and working more effectively with legislative leaders in Lansing on business developments, jobs and affordable housing.