Massive population loss that began in the 1950s and a decades long downturn in the auto industry and other manufacturers severely slashed Detroit’s tax base. Many neighborhoods were rife with vacant and burned out houses. Empty lots became dumping grounds for trash, used tires and even boats.
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Detroit’s bankruptcy architect says filing 10 years ago was best fix for broken city
Detroit’s newly hired emergency manager, Kevyn Orr, stood before reporters in March 2013 and issued a warning to city creditors, unions, vendors and others: “Don’t make me go to bankruptcy court. You won’t enjoy it.”
