PONTIAC, Mich. – Members of the public who need minor car repairs are invited to attend a Pull-over Prevention clinic in Pontiac on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024.
District 3 Councilman Mikal Goodman said the event is designed to help residents address minor vehicle issues, which could reduce their risk of interactions with law enforcement.
The team at Chavez Auto Shop in Pontiac is returning this year to provide free minor car repair services.
Owner Tony Jumaa said some motorists often visit his shop after being pulled over by law enforcement.
“At least twice, or three times a week, people pull in here with bad bulbs, broken headlights, you know, minor stuff like that,” said Jumaa.
Being proactive in helping residents minimize the risk of unnecessary traffic-related interactions with officers has been at the forefront of Goodman’s mind.
“When you’re driving, very oftentimes, driving is not a simple process,” Goodman said. “Sometimes you might get pulled over for a broken headlight, or taillight, or any other kind of pretextual reason. And as we’ve seen in recent years, that’s been very dangerous for a lot of Black people.”
Goodman said the Pull Over Prevention Clinic would offer residents a variety of free car repair services including diagnostic checks, light checks, AC check, fluid checks, oil changes, windshield wiper replacement, and brake checks among other repairs.
“We’re going to check their belts,” said Jumaa. “If their belts are bad, we’re going to give them a voucher to come in the following day. We’re going to change that belt.”
The Pull Over Prevention Clinic will also offer a community resources fair.
Services will be available, including COVID and flu vaccines, housing assistance, pet supplies, and free food from Uncle Jerry’s BBQ while supplies last for those planning to attend.
Goodman said, “These are people who are taking their kids to school. Who are going to work. Who can’t afford a ticket. Sometimes, they can’t afford a minor repair. These are people who need resources but don’t know where all of the resources are.”
The Pull Over Prevention Clinic and Resources Fair will take place Saturday, Oct. 6, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Baldwin Center, 212 Baldwin Avenue, Pontiac, MI 48342. For more information call 248-758-3015 or email mgoodman@pontiac.mi.us.