As an outsider, my proposal for the revitalization of Detroit is to reconstitute it as a Charter City. Exempt individuals from federal and state income taxes, if they reside within the city limits. Limiting the break to individuals would encourage the formation and growth of small businesses, S corporations, LLC's and the like. Property taxes would still be collected to pay for city services.
Then exempt all business from any tariff or cross-border taxes to create a "free-trade zone".
Detroit's location across the river from Windsor, Canada, port facilities with ocean access through the St. Lawrence Seaway, and a commercial airport with the city limits (City Airport) give Detroit access to world trade.
Eventually, the concept could be extended to other rust belt cities, like Cleveland, creating a modern Hanseatic League.
Read this column from the Detroit News on what not to do.
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