A Detroit community group, The Seward Sharing Table, is currently disputing a city order to remove a small structure it erected last month on a city sidewalk. The building was constructed to house a refrigerator and shield donated food from the elements, a measure coordinator Steven Rimmer said the group believed was in line with guidance received from city officials in a February meeting. However, the organization later received a voicemail message instructing that the “makeshift cabinetry” must be taken down.
The voicemail, which allegedly identified the caller as Officer Moore with the Detroit Police Department, came as a surprise to Rimmer. He stated that the directive contradicted information given during the February meeting, which involved representatives from several city departments, including the Health Department, Detroit police, and the city’s Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department (BSEED). Rimmer added that at this meeting, the Health Department had recommended the group acquire a refrigerator and build a small structure to house it. He also asserted that the group was not informed a permit would be necessary for the construction and maintains that the structure does not impede sidewalk access.
Arthur Rushin, Chief Enforcement Officer with BSEED, presented a more complex view of the situation. He explained that city agencies had initially met with The Seward Sharing Table in February due to prior complaints regarding their operations and issues with animals accessing their food setup. Rushin indicated the city's intent was to collaborate with the Sharing Table to resolve these concerns.
During the February discussions, Rushin stated, the possibility of a structure was raised. He clarified that city officials conveyed that a structure placed in the parking lot would not pose an issue, but one on the sidewalk would. He emphasized the city's commitment to the health and safety of residents, noting that specific regulations govern the distribution of food. Rushin further said BSEED intends to meet with the organization next week to outline the necessary steps for the project to meet compliance standards. He also advised that anyone considering construction should always consult with the city beforehand.
When asked, Rimmer reiterated his position, stating he had not been informed during the February meeting that the structure should be built within the parking lot. He also confirmed that he had not yet received communication from BSEED regarding the scheduling of the proposed meeting. Inquiries made to the Detroit Police Department concerning the voicemail had not yet received a response.
