Joe Stephens (mayor) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Joe Stephens
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| Mayor of Saginaw, Michigan | |
| In office November 14, 1977 – November 12, 1979 |
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| Preceded by | Raymond M. Tortora |
| Succeeded by | Paul P. Prudhomme |
| City Council of Saginaw, Michigan | |
| In office 1973–1977 |
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| In office 1980–1985 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born |
Sylvester Stephens
1934/1935 (age 89–90) |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Residence | Saginaw, Michigan |
Sylvester "Joe" Stephens (born around 1934 or 1935) is an American politician. He was the second African-American mayor of Saginaw, Michigan.
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Who is Sylvester "Joe" Stephens?
Sylvester Stephens is often called "Joe" by his friends and colleagues. He started his career in public service as a police officer. In 1957, he joined the Saginaw Police Force. He served during a time when the city had its first African-American mayor, Henry G. Marsh.
Becoming a City Leader
In 1973, Joe Stephens was elected to the Saginaw City Council. This was an important step in his political journey. On November 14, 1977, he was chosen to be the Mayor of Saginaw.
What Does a Mayor Do in Saginaw?
Saginaw has a special type of government called a "weak mayor" system. This means the mayor does not have the power to hire or fire city employees. The mayor also cannot stop new laws (veto them) on their own. Instead, the mayor works closely with the city council to make decisions.
Key Achievements as Mayor
During his time as mayor, Joe Stephens worked on many important projects. He helped make the police force fully integrated, meaning people of all backgrounds could join. He also created a way for citizens to get more involved in city decisions.
- Community Meetings: Council members held meetings at the city's 25 schools. This helped them hear directly from people in different neighborhoods.
- City Income Tax: He helped put in place a city income tax. This tax helped fund city services. It was capped, or limited, in 1979.
- Improving the City: Mayor Stephens also worked to tear down empty buildings. These buildings were often unsafe. He also got money from the government for city development projects.
He served as mayor until November 12, 1979. The city council then took some time to choose a new mayor. On December 10, 1979, Paul P. Prudhomme was chosen as his replacement. Joe Stephens continued to serve on the city council until 1985.
After Being Mayor
After his time as mayor and city councilor, Joe Stephens continued to be a leader. From 1984 to 1985, he was the president of the Michigan Municipal League. This group helps cities and towns across Michigan. Later, he worked as an executive at General Motors, a very large car company.
