Mayor Targets Property Tax Cuts as Hudson’s Condos Launch Downtown

Detroit’s economic and housing landscape shifted this week as Mayor Mary Sheffield laid out an ambitious affordability agenda while a long-anticipated downtown condo project officially opened sales.

Mayor Proposes Major Property Tax Cuts

In her first State of the City address Tuesday night, Mayor Sheffield proposed cutting Detroit’s property tax rates by an estimated 30% to 60% over time. She framed the move as central to making housing more affordable and competitive with surrounding communities.

The mayor also previewed a new budget that includes raising the minimum wage for full-time city employees to $21.45 an hour, part of a broader push to combat poverty and stabilize neighborhoods. Her administration is pairing tax relief with efforts to recruit more retail and attract new residents through partnerships with business leaders.

City Council is expected to debate details of the proposal in the coming weeks as budget negotiations ramp up ahead of the new fiscal year.

Hudson’s Detroit Condos Go on Sale

Meanwhile, presales have officially launched for 96 luxury condominiums inside the Hudson’s tower development on Woodward Avenue. The residences sit above a future hotel and alongside retail and public gathering space in what is now the second-tallest building in Michigan.

The project represents a major milestone for downtown’s real estate market and will test demand for high-end housing as the city works to grow its population.

Neighborhood Tax Incentives Under Review

At City Council, lawmakers are also revisiting the effectiveness of Neighborhood Enterprise Zone tax incentives. Some council members questioned whether the incentives are providing meaningful tax relief to residents or primarily benefiting developers.

The discussion comes as the mayor pushes broader tax reform and as Detroit continues balancing revenue needs with affordability goals.

Sources