Why can't Detroit annex neighbouring cities to regain its population?

[davewindsor]

Michigan law requires that a majority of residents in the affected area[[s) of the suburban community, as well as the city of Detroit must vote in favor of such an annexation.

There's absolutely no way that the residents of a single suburb would vote for such an annexation. Even in Highland Park or Royal Oak TWP [[two places that have similar demographics to Detroit and might possibly see improved city services) the chances are remote that a majority of residents would vote to be absorbed by Detroit.

Well, in the case of the City of Toronto, the residents voted against amalgamation 3 to 1 in citywide referendums, yet the Province of Ontario said tough luck and went ahead with it anyway to streamline costs. Why couldn't the Governor of Michigan change the laws and do the same thing as the Province of Ontario did with Toronto?

[MIRepublic]

Why couldn't the Governor of Michigan change the laws and do the same thing as the Province of Ontario did with Toronto?

Are you serious? First, the legislature makes the laws. Secondly, I guess you're just now realizing the cultural difference between our two nations. To mess with an areas home rule, particularly incorporated cities and charter townships [[limited home rule) which now surround most of our major cities, is to declare war.

Lastly, Detroit's problems have long since gone past the point where annexation would be anymore than a temporary bandaid. Annexation only truly releases its full benefits, and is only really worthwhile, when started early before the areas around an urban area are developed.

[Quonset Hut]

Well, in the case of the City of Toronto, the residents voted against amalgamation 3 to 1 in citywide referendums, yet the Province of Ontario said tough luck and went ahead with it anyway to streamline costs. Why couldn't the Governor of Michigan change the laws and do the same thing as the Province of Ontario did with Toronto?

Because it wouldn't pass in the State Legislature. The Governor doesn't change laws by fiat.