Detroiters can report neighborhood problems to government in many ways. 911, 311, direct phone calls to city officials, including elected officials and city departments such as the police department or DPW, or even the city Ombudsperson's Office. They can even report issues while at community meetings, where oftentimes a city official will be present. Historically, the "squeaky wheel gets the grease" method has been the most effective, and especially if you know someone in City government. The bureaucratic method has not worked effectively for decades.
I reported a potentially dangerous situation to Detroit 311 yesterday. (See photos below). I was genuinely surprised that the problem was addressed within a few hours. Impressed, I wanted to give the City credit for its quick response -- if indeed it was the agency who fixed the problem.
I'm told that citizen's 311 service requests normally receive a tracking number, however, the e-mail receipt I received from my Detroit 311 request, which I made via e-mail did not have a tracking number. The 311 operator indicated he forwarded the info the Public Lighting but did not give it a tracking number because it is more of a police/fire/theft issue.
Someone fixed the problem, who that was we don't yet know...because 311 only tracks certain types of requests. Other types simply get forwarded on with no tracking. I would suggest they start tracking everything and that departments report back on the status of all service requests. That way, stuff will have less of a chance of falling through the cracks, citizens will be able track requests, and the City will be able to effectively measure and reward high performing workers and departments.
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