In the News

Detroit’s City Council president is running to become the city’s first woman mayor, with housing for single-mother-led households as a major part of her platform. UCHC’s voice is part of the city’s housing safety network, and Executive Director Ted Phillips contributes to the discussion on tenant protections and housing stability.

Outlier Media reports on how the new state budget affects Detroit residents, including the end of the Pay As You Stay (PAYS) program and increased foreclosure risk for low-income homeowners. UCHC Executive Director Ted Phillips notes that while outreach around the HOPE tax exemption has improved, “there are still a lot of folks that fall through the cracks.”

Sued by Detroit and criticized by tenants, ownership questions are just the latest of RealT’s problems

Ted Phillips, executive director for the United Community Housing Coalition, and Nushrat Rahman, economic mobility reporter for the Detroit Free Press and BridgeDetroit, joined the show to discuss the drivers of and possible solutions to this growing problem.

"(Ted) Phillips is the executive director of the United Community Housing Coalition in Detroit, says not enough properties are in compliance with city code and many aren’t registered. His organization is often in court, fighting for renters' rights."

Working with the United Community Housing Coalition in Detroit, 1L Sean Stone analyzed contracts and examined factors that exacerbate homelessness and diminish housing affordability.

The program’s featured developers, builders, educators, agency staff, and housing advocates discussed Detroit’s affordable housing challenges and opportunities. The program content gives the historical context for Detroit’s housing market, which sets the stage for the tough conversations needed to navigate the way forward.

"It’s really fun to get to meet all these people in Southwest who directly affected me growing up in the community as a small kid,” says Andrea Meza. Meza chats with Planet Detroit about her career as a caseworker and journalist. Meza advocates for media inclusivity, urging outlets to welcome new journalists and embrace diverse narratives.

Ted Phillips presents updates and progress on eviction defense work (Notably, the Right to Counsel program).