We'll soon see just how much power Mayor-elect Mike Duggan can grab back from Emergency Manager Kevyn Orr, the real mayor of Detroit.
Detroit News Editorial writer Nolan Finley writes that Duggan could find out as soon as today when he meets with Orr.
Finley writes:
Duggan and emergency manager Kevyn Orr have a standing Thursday meeting, and hope today come to some conclusions on the new mayor’s unusual role in a city that is a ward of the state. If not today, a final decision will come next Thursday.
In all likelihood, Duggan won’t get as much authority as he seeks, but he and Orr are moving toward a working relationship that will allow him more influence than outgoing Mayor Dave Bing has had, and will keep any disagreements they have private.
Finley notes that he expects Orr to hold on to the big parts of the city and writes of Duggan:
He’ll likely get the Fire Department, which needs a new commissioner. And he may get most of the remaining departments, including transportation, IT and human resources. He’ll be allowed to fill the department head positions not currently occupied by Orr-appointed consultants and contractors. -- A.L.
