VOTE411 Voter Guide

I am running for Southfield Mayor because I am born and raised in this city. I want to change our city for the better. I will bring new ideals to government and common sense to the mayors office that reflects our values for the middle class.

Lower property taxes for residents that own homes or are paying a mortgage. Citizens are struggling to keep up with the high cost of living. More investment in our police officers and department to drive this increasing crime down. And more involvement in our Southfield public schools to increase funding for our kids in the city. Southfield public schools might be separate from city government but most of our kids our kids of color and we need to take education more seriously for the future of our kids that don't have the luxury of being rich and wealth being handed down.

I’m Sylvia Jordan, a former 17-year Southfield City Councilwoman, small business owner, and long-time community advocate. I’m running for Mayor to bring experienced, accountable, and transparent leadership that will restore pride in our city and put residents first. During my time on Council, I championed responsible budgeting, economic development, neighborhood revitalization, youth programming, and public safety. I’ve spent my life serving the people of Southfield-through public office and civic outreach. I understand how city government works and what it takes to move it forward. As a business owner, I’ve created jobs, managed operations, and delivered results with discipline and vision. I bring experience in governance, economic development, and community-building. I’m running to ensure Southfield grows with integrity, opportunity, and respect for every resident. I love this city deeply and am ready to lead it into a stronger, more unified future. Let’s Build Southfield Better.

Southfield’s top priorities are revitalizing our city for all families, improving quality of life, and supporting economic growth. As Mayor, I’ll address the lack of basic amenities-no city pool, no community center-by pursuing strategic public-private partnerships. We also need more family-friendly dining and entertainment options beyond fast food. I’ll work to improve essential services like garbage pick-up and invest in neighborhood beautification, street maintenance and road repairs. Public safety will be strengthened through community policing programs. I’ll ensure small and minority-owned businesses have real access to city contracts and development opportunities. High taxes must be addressed through smarter budgeting. I’ll also advocate for expanded senior services, affordable housing and youth programs that bring enrichment and opportunity. It’s time to Build Southfield Better-with leadership focused on families, fairness, and a vibrant future.

Mayor Kenson Siver is a true Southfield enthusiast. He cares deeply about our city and its people. For 58 years Siver has been an active and visible member of our community. Formerly the Deputy Superintendent of Southfield Public Schools, Dr. Siver served our children and parents as a teacher and administrator for 50 years. After 14 years as a City Councilman, Siver was elected Mayor in 2015. As mayor he maintains a robust agenda with focus on replacement of city infrastructure, placemaking, housing, vibrant city attractions, business development and more. He has a vast amount of experience and is well connected to the community. Noteworthy, for decades Siver has active involvement in local organizations including the Magnolia Neighborhood Assn, Martin Luther King Task Force (founding member), Sfld Historical Society, Goodfellows, Parks & Garden Club, Sfld Democratic Club, Sfld Non-Profit Neighborhood Corp. Board, Friends of Sfld Public Arts, City Centre Advisory Board, Sfld DDA

Housing - Southfield needs new housing, especially for seniors who wish to downsize & remain in the city & for seniors on fixed incomes. His conversion of Grace School to subsidized senior housing to add 60 units. He continues to push affordable housing to attract younger people, including his partnership with Habitat for Humanity for workforce & affordable units. Mayor Siver will continue his efforts for the inspection & rehabilitation of existing apartments & single-family rental homes.

Infrastructure – Siver has overseen reconstruction of 151 miles of city roads & 58 miles of new water mains. He won’t rest until the remaining 95 miles of roads are completed. He successfully pushed DTE for more tree trimming & system upgrades.

Adaptive Re-Use of Existing Structures – Work & retail have changed. Siver is aggressively seeking new businesses & new uses for surplus office, retail & commercial spaces. Innovation is his byword. Conversion of closed hotels to housing is in the works.