Detroit Evening Report: Warren Evans touts health initiatives, lower crime rates in State of the County address

Wayne County Executive Warren Evans delivered his annual State of the County address on Tuesday night. 

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From the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, Evans spoke about his administration’s efforts over the past year to improve the health of residents and create more vibrant communities. He also highlighted public safety initiatives that have led to fewer homicides. 

“For decades, Wayne County — particularly Detroit — has grappled with the reputation of murder capital, right.  But in 2023, Detroit experienced the lowest number of homicides in more than half a century,” he said.

City officials reported in January that Detroit had only 252 murders reported last year — the lowest number since 1966.

“When you look at the numbers – 57 fewer homicides than in the year before — that’s not a statistic. That’s 57 human beings who are safe,” Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan said in a news conference announcing the data.

The city also reported the number of non-fatal shootings fell by 16% last year, while carjackings fell 33%. 

Evans credits regional collaboration with helping to lower crime rates.  

During his address, Evans also spoke about a new effort to monitor air quality more closely across the county.  

“Over the past year, we’ve made significant investments in health initiatives that empower our communities and protect our residents,” he said. “One such initiative is the deployment of a groundbreaking network of air monitors across Wayne County, providing real-time data on air quality with our partners at Just Air.”

Evans says 10 new air quality monitors are already up and running in Dearborn, with a total of 100 set to be installed across Wayne County by the end of April. 

Other headlines for Wednesday, March 13, 2024:

• The city of Detroit is in the midst of its annual budget process. Public hearings will be held on Thursday to give residents a chance to voice their concerns and to respond to budget priorities.
• Detroit’s casinos are reporting slightly lower revenues for February, bringing in $104.6 million for the month from table games and slot machines.
• Detroit author and columnist Mitch Albom says he’s safe and glad to be back in the United States after being stranded in Haiti, where he and his wife work with orphans, amid soaring gang violence.
• And its 313 Day! That’s when the date corresponds with Detroit’s area code. It’s a time when Detroiters celebrate their “Detroit-ness” with special events and giveaways.

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