Detroit Office of the Ombudsman

The City of Detroit Office of the Ombudsman was first charted more than 40 years ago. It is designed to provide protection for the individual citizen, businessperson, or developer, where there is a lack of follow-up or city services rendered.

The Ombudsman is appointed by a two-thirds majority of the Detroit City Council to a 10- year term under the City of Detroit 2012 Charter (Article 7.5.-Chapter 4- Sec.7.5-401. - Sec.7.5-417) The City of Detroit Ombudsman, Bruce Simpson, is a liaison between the City of Detroit and all persons who have a complaint or inquiry into the operation of a city department or conduct of a city employee. Ombudsman Simpson works as an independent oversight to provide individuals with an opportunity of providing a confidential avenue to address complaints. The Office proposes policy and procedural changes when systemic issues are identified.

As an investigative agency, our responsibilities include processing all complaints, inquiries, and advocating for the delivery of city public services.