Barlow said, as mayor, he would explore publicly owned renewable energy initiatives to reduce the cost of electricity. “By investing in community-owned renewable energy, Detroit can create long-term resilience, energy independence and affordability,” he stated in response to Outlier Media’s candidate questionnaire.

Barlow said the city should never shut off residents’ water, no matter what it costs taxpayers.

“Water is a basic human right, not a privilege tied to income,” he wrote. “My administration would prioritize structural solutions — such as income-based water rates, green infrastructure and public ownership models — to ensure long-term affordability and dignity for all Detroiters.”

As mayor, Barlow wants to increase the frequency of all bus routes. “Frequency is the core driver of trust and usability in public transit,” he wrote. “Reliable, frequent transit is essential to equitable access to jobs, health care and education — especially Detroiters without a vehicle.”