City's New Administration Leads to Inkster Citizens with a New Sense of Pride

There was standing room only in the Booker T. Dozier Recreation Center as residents of the city of Inkster filled the meeting space to capacity. Those who arrived late were in a bit of a shock, as they witnessed fellow residents and others, sitting and chatting with each other. A true sense of community filled the space, as people seemed to be neighbors, friends and/or family.

Prior to the mayor's address, residents and those who were in the meeting space were met with a brief program beginning with an opening prayer, welcome, pledge of allegiance, acknowledgements and an introduction to both local and state officials.

As Mayor Bryon H. Nolen entered into the event space, he could be seen greeting, hugging and shaking hands with city residents, friends, family and supporters. Mayor Nolan's supporters didn't leave anyone guessing, if they were in the building. They were very vocal during his entrance and his speech, as they could be heard cheering him on.

Mayor Bryon H. Nolen, was elected to office on Nov 7, 2023. As a resident of this community for more than 40 years, you could tell that he is invested in the City of Inkster. During his campaign, Mayor Nolen focused more on the city's budget deficit and not so much of legal issues of the former mayor. The night of the State of the City Address, Mayor Nolen, continued to focus on himself and his new administration as he did not pinpoint, what others could find and consider to be fault of the previous administration. Instead, he focused on the game plan and his vision to help Inkster become a leading city in Western Wayne County.

The mayor did share some prominent information with city residents during his speech. He talked about how currently, the city's budget due to past years, has led to being over budget by 1 million dollars. Mayor Nolan states, "We have the blueprint to get out of debt but it's going to take time. I will be asking city staff to be superheroes." He continued by sharing that there is a thing called a City Master Plan that should be updated every 2 years. However, currently the city of Inkster Master Plan is 7 years behind.

Throughout the mayor's address to the city of Inkster, he came across as an open book. From what was told, it seemed as those he left no skulls or bones untouched. He let residents know exactly what the city was dealing with currently. At the same time, he was informative of the goals and visions that he has to help change the way, others view and think about Inkster. Further along in his speech, Mayor Bryon Nolen, spoke about the housing shortage and how there are plans in place to rezone commercial spaces.

Other updates given by the mayor were the following:

- Breaking ground for the Senior Wellness Center at Dozier Center

-Renovating City Library

-Updating Downtown

-Renovation to the city's amphitheater

-Voter's absentee ballots have been sent to residents

- You can cast your vote 9 days before election at City Hall

There is some fun and exciting news that came out of the mayor address for all who are physically active and for those families and individuals who like the outdoors. Summer is going to be awesome for all, and it'll even draw other from various communities out to visit the city of Inkster. Inkster Kayak Launch Park is underway and there will be a summer camp this year for children to take part in. Several organizations have joined forces to support. There will even be nutritional food that includes, vegetarian and vegan options, said the Mayor of Inkster.

As the evening continued Mayor Nolen's speech was not drawn out and it wasn't long but it was sufficient and it delivered the important details of up-to-date information for residents. One thing in the speech that stood out, was the concern of making this city better, from how residents are living to the programs and community events that are offered to residents. There seemed to be a deep focus on community, togetherness and pride for the city of Inkster and its residents and supporters.

Mayor Bryon H. Nolen ended the night by saying, "It's possible that none of us will be remembered that's here in this room tonight but, let's be remembered."

Now take your time and re-read that statement, no matter the city or community that you're living in. Ask yourself this question, "In what way have I made a positive change or effort to make my community a better place?

There are some really awesome and exciting things that we all can look forward to in the summer months. Don't count them out, Inkster seems like they are heading towards being the next leading city in Western Wayne County.