Tensions Rise Between Detroit City Council, Mayor's Office DETROIT, MI (Michigan Radio) - Tension has surfaced again between members of Detroit City Council and representatives of Mayor Dave Bing's administration.

Council members say Bing's office uses "emergency" status to push too many contracts through Council.

Members voted down one emergency request Tuesday. It would have paid for outside legal services to continue negotiations between the city and labor unions over wage cuts and other concessions.

The mayor's office says it needs outside help to speed up those negotiations and help the city close an estimated $300 million budget gap.

But Councilwoman Saunteel Jenkins says that's not an emergency. "We knew that the city was in contract negotiations," Jenkins told a representative from the Mayor's office. "So I'm confused as to how this is actually an emergency. And if it's an emergency, then it's an indication of a lack of planning."

Council members also complained the Bing Administration asks Council to
approve too many lawsuit settlements without providing details.

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