The Mower Gang: #Anarchy in Detroit, Part I

We all know Detroit's in trouble: A bankrupt city full of crumbling houses, abandoned factory buildings, and a dwindling population. 

But while politicians, unions, and investors slug it out in bankruptcy court and grasp for their share of what little cash is left, ordinary citizens are left to fend for themselves in a city with no functioning government. This is Reason TV's coverage of what happens when people are left to their own devices and forced to come up with creative ways to pick up the pieces and find solutions in a city they once loved.

This is #Anarchy in Detroit, a four-part series showcasing what actual Detroit residents are doing to make the Motor City a better place to live.

In Part I, Tom Nardone is tired of seeing Detroit's public parks go unmowed by the city government. He thinks that children should have a place to play. So, he hops on his mower and does it himself. Then, he invites others.

"I was surprised when the first person showed up. I was like, 'All right. I guess someone's as crazy as I am,'" says Nardone.

Hence, the Mower Gang is born. 

Watch the video above, and check out the rest of the series here. Part II profiles Detroit Threat Management, a private security firm supplementing the efforts of the city's beleaguered law enforcement. Part III explores Fireweed Universe City, a neighborhood of anarchist squatters. And Part IV takes a look at one man's wild idea to purchase an island in the Detroit River and turn it into a libertarian paradise. Or, watch the whole thing here.

Approximately 3 minutes. Produced by Zach Weissmueller. Shot by Tracy Oppenheimer and Weissmueller. Music by Cassiopee Asphodel and Treaty.

Click the buttons below for downloadable versions of this video, and don't forget to subscribe to Reason TV's Youtube channel for more content like this.