Interview with Tamika Gaines.

Detroit has issues. There’s no way to sugar coat it. The economy is in shambles. The city’s population is in decline, and the city is being picked apart and sold piece by piece. Once a proud city that was a major hub of the US economy, is now reduced to being the laughing stock of the country. Every morning, afternoon, evening and night, we are constantly embarrassed by our so-called “leaders”. For the last 4 years we have had our own soap opera. Sex, lies, corruption and all of the other things that make a good movie but bad politics. Life long Detroiter Tamika Gaines is running for Detroit city council and hopes to change all that. I recently spoke with Ms. Gaines over the weekend about her and the race for city council.

Q: For those who have never heard of you, please give us a background of who Tamika Gaines is.

A: A native of Detroit, someone who has passion, care, and concern for the geographic location in which I live, which is Detroit. I believe in the impossible being done, all it takes is: a plan of action, an execution of that plan, an elimination of excuses, extra work, and prayer.

Q: What made you decide to run for city council?

A: In addition to my love for wanting to see distressed areas succeed, I want to see the city of Detroit prospering once more. I have vision that I believe will help to move the city in a new direction. Also, I believe everyone was created to solve problems, and I want to solve as many problems for Detroit that I can.

Q: What do you think that you can bring to the city council that the others cannot?

A: A freshness, newness,and relentless second to none commitment to see this city national image restored; so it can be one of the most sought after places to live.

Q: City business is at a standstill due to the corruption of the city government. What are your thoughts of this, and what steps do you think are necessary make those involved accountable for their actions?

A: New policies and procedures will need to be put into place. With an understanding that our environment is constantly changing; therefore, we must have policies and procedures that remain relevant with the current times. We must always have strategies and plans in place that deal with any issue that would arise with those in leadership positions.



Q: Neighborhoods all over the city are being stripped piece by piece and sold as scrap. What do you think needs to help combat the epidemic of thefts from property?
A: An Increase of police patrols, with faster response times along and Community involvement would change the minds of thieves. Furthermore, those who commit robbery and theft need something constructive to do. More jobs opportunities must be made available to the under-employed and unemployed.

Q: With a short staffed police department, what do you think needs to be done to combat our notoriously high crime rate, and what would you suggest be done to prevent crime?

A: Hire more police who live in the city !!!! I believe that if you have a vested- interest in a city you will fight hard for that city! Many who commit crime are already previous offender; however, that is a nationwide issue that must be dealt with. A reformation within in a jails and prisons must take place, so those who have been socially deviant can return to their communities changed.

Q: On your website, you say that the city's financial dysfunction is one of your main concerns. What would be some of your proposals to handle this problem?

A: In my experience with the City of Detroit, a lot of money has been wasted due to poor stewardship and lack of financial oversight. So, like I do with clients, I would do a Financial Needs Analysis which would trouble-shoot the areas within the city that need immediate financial resolve. Then, My co-workers and I would come up with strategies that would move the city forward financially.

Q: If elected, would you be willing to make certain sacrifices, for the greater good for the city?

A: Absolutely, It is about going above and beyond the extra miles to see this city not just survive but thrive again.

Tamika L. Gaines

P.O.Box10716

Detroit , MI 48210

www.gainesfordetroit.com

(888)543-3185