The Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC) and the Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department (BSEED) of the City of Detroit have launched an educational series designed to provide Detroit entrepreneurs and building property owners with essential knowledge about city compliance. The “Small Business Corridor Compliance Education Series” aims to equip participants with valuable insights on various crucial topics, including regulatory compliance, enforcement, vacant property accountability, and developer resources.
Recent data indicates that approximately 40 percent of Detroit residents identify themselves as entrepreneurs. However, navigating the intricate landscape of city compliance can present significant challenges for these entrepreneurs and property owners. Recognizing this need, the DEGC and BSEED have developed this educational series to empower participants with the necessary knowledge and tools to successfully navigate compliance regulations.
Lashawna Manigault, the director of the District Business Liaison Program, Small Business Services at the DEGC, expressed the importance of providing solutions that not only support business owners but also grant direct access to government services in a manner that educates and empowers the community as a whole. Understanding compliance obligations will help participants avoid potential penalties while creating a more compliant and flourishing business environment in Detroit.
Businesses and property owners found in violation of city compliance may face consequences such as liens, garnishments, seizures, and other legally permissible actions. By addressing the specific compliance concerns faced by entrepreneurs and property owners, this program aims to foster a better understanding of their legal obligations, enabling them to operate their businesses and properties more effectively and sustainably.
David Bell, the director of BSEED, highlighted the importance of knowledge in helping business owners avoid fines and keep away from the Department of Appeals and Hearings (DAH) Court. The program’s goal is to provide business owners with the necessary tools to allocate their resources towards business growth rather than spending them on tickets and fines.
The education series will include in-person sessions held in each of Detroit’s seven city council districts throughout the summer, ensuring accessibility for small business owners and building property owners. Additionally, a monthly webinar will cover specific city services or processes for those unable to attend in person.
The education series is being offered free of charge to small business owners and building property owners in Detroit. Interested participants can register for individual sessions by visiting DEGC.org or DetroitMeansBusiness.org, where they will find additional program schedule details and a lineup of speakers. Further educational resources on city compliance in Detroit, including guides on navigating city processes and opening a business, can be found at www.detroitmeansbusiness.org/navigating-city-processes.
Sean Gray, the vice president of Small Business Services at the DEGC, emphasized that by flowing with the current of compliance, business and property owners can avoid treacherous obstacles, maintain a steady course, and ultimately achieve sustainable growth and success. Neglecting compliance, on the other hand, is akin to paddling upstream, constantly fighting against forces that can capsize a business, resulting in penalties, legal issues, and a damaged reputation.
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