A long look back at ELi – and bright hopes for the future – from founder Alice Dreger.
ELi brings you what candidates had to say about the city’s workforce problem, redevelopment, climate change, public safety and lots more.
Voters are being asked to consider three amendments on the Nov. 7, 2023, ballot.
Divisions within East Lansing’s City Hall have led to complaints and resignations.
Investigation by ELi shows it’s been a rocky road to hiring a new city manager for East Lansing.
Material just released under the Freedom of Information Act shows the Metzger/Fabian family chose to redevelop their portion of Parking Lot #11 after being told the city would not continue to rent it for parking.
Internal communications reveal what’s been happening with the long-awaited Trader Joe’s store set to be built across Grand River Avenue from Whole Foods in East Lansing.
The seed donor for ELi’s new Investigative News Fund has let us know we can release his name. The fund has reached almost $5,000 in two weeks.
Mayor Ron Bacon says the Council won’t initiate a resolution to make the change, as he says the idea was to involve a “democratic sorting of that issue.”
The loss of surface parking is the chief objection of critics. But the owners of the land say the lot is going to be redeveloped one way or another.
Responses will be used to generate questions for the public candidate forum set for Sept. 14 at the Hannah Community Center.
The meeting where Robert Belleman was fired from his job as Saginaw County’s controller included strong public statements for and against his termination, a recording obtained by ELi shows. Two commissioners who voted for termination spoke with ELi.
The controversial amendment proposing changing City Council elections from odd- to even-numbered years was ruled to conflict with the Home Rule City Act.
Four other charter amendments have made it to the ballot, including one that’s confusing even to Council.
DTN’s attorney told the EL city attorney this was never about discrimination – it was always just about the money.
Cincinnati’s City Manager removed Collin Mays from his directorship following an HR investigation, documents show. Mays denied wrongdoing and subsequently resigned.
Cincinnati’s City Manager removed Collin Mays from his directorship following an HR investigation, documents show. Mays denied wrongdoing and subsequently resigned.
What’s the plan for 530 Albert Ave.? ELi explains the proposal, the opposition and the backstory.
The five semi-finalists’ applications raise a host of questions following investigative research by ELi.
View the packages using the links provided in the story; the interview process begins Monday (Aug. 7) at the Hannah Community Center.
Some departments have been hit harder than others after numerous key employees leave for other jobs or retire.
There’s no topic quite so contentious as parking downtown, as became evident at Thursday’s DDA meeting.
The deadline for filing for candidacy in the East Lansing City Council race passed today at 4 p.m. and it looks like there are either seven or eight candidates running for the three open seats on the November ballot. Interim City Clerk Marie Wicks told ELi at 4:54 p.m. today, “I can confirm that Mark…
What came of that heavy agenda at EL’s City Council meeting Tuesday?
“I don’t think I am exaggerating when I saw that this job is slowly killing me,” Gregg wrote in an early-morning announcement today.
“I do not intend to run this cycle,” Bacon told ELi Wednesday evening.
Who has and hasn’t applied to be city manager? Why the chatter about moving city operations? And what’s going on with the independent investigation into the anonymous complaint? ELi brings you up to speed on these stories and more.
ELi catches you up on big business in the city coming this Tuesday.
There is more than meets the eye behind the costs for renovation of the Patriarche Park courts.
As East Lansing’s Council decides whether to put three charter amendments to voters, we asked one experienced local official to articulate the pros and cons.
In other business, employee retention bonuses were unanimously approved, sidewalk repair assessments were stretched out and naming of a city art studio after a woman got support.
A local resident pushed the school district to open the facility for regular public use.
Council is encouraging organizations to post copies of General Order No. 3 and encouraging individuals to join the June 18 celebration.
In advance of Council’s discussion on the matter, ELi brings you two voices in favor and two against.
Three big surprises on this coming Tuesday’s City Council agenda.
So far, there are three confirmed candidates for the three open seats this November.
Weeks after being advised by Lansing’s deputy mayor that giving cash away to a local charity violates state law, East Lansing’s mayor supported another $5,000 donation by his city. And why did former city manager George Lahanas start two “nongovernmental” charities from City Hall?
ELi brings you an insider look at the City of East Lansing’s operations, revenue and spending as viewed through the lens of this year’s budget talks.
We published fresh news today…but not here.
A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request turns up a surprising letter, and the vice president for developer ACD explains how a project would restrict who can rent there.
Ron Bacon and Jessy Gregg say they’re “undecided,” but Noel Garcia will be running for election in November. ELi explains how the race works and how to run.
The 2018 deal with DRW/Convexity and City Council is setting the stage for the current council to make a big decision.
“When I was a young man, I didn’t really appreciate what Memorial Day meant,” Interim City Manager Randy Talifarro told those gathered.
River Caddis Development’s exclusive deal is facing expiration on July 17; the DDA will ponder the new “collaborative approach” for the next 30 days.
The proposal had its first public airing at East Lansing’s Downtown Development Authority (DDA) meeting today. ELi brings you the details.
Ron Lacasse would like to know how someone managed to get an entire Big Wheel down into the sewer system.
The wastewater treatment plant is processing over 4 billion gallons a year…and water rates are going up. Bike lanes are coming to Coolidge and Hagadorn Roads. The Red Cedar Neighborhood will get a new water main. What else can you expect in the coming year?
If City Council follows the committee’s recommendations, the pie will be split many ways between public services and infrastructure projects.
Four months after the 3-1 Council vote to declare East Lansing a sanctuary city, ELi gives an overview of what’s happening in the city to prepare should a sudden influx of immigrants occur.
Funding from MSU and the state is up while personnel services are down in the projected fire department budget. Learn more from ELi.
Peck graduated from Michigan State University in 2004 with a degree in journalism and a specialization in public relations, and her career has spanned marketing, fundraising, and nonprofit management.
The goals and objectives of the department for the coming year include working with a number of community groups and serving EL’s diverse population.
We’re not (just) working from an anonymous complaint, and this is not the first time we’ve looked very closely at local officials’ actions.
Mayor Ron Bacon spoke for about 13 minutes on the troubles at City Hall, covering a wide variety of topics and making many unexplained allusions.
Mayor Pro Tem Jessy Gregg has said the matter is being overblown in importance, while records show Interim Planning Director Tim Dempsey has seen it as critical to understanding low staff morale.
Former employees of the City of East Lansing are shedding more light on the tensions that have existed within the government for months.
“There are some amazing college bars here,” the applicant representing Mash told the DDA, “and that’s not really our niche.”
The conversation was tense as Interim City Manager Randy Talifarro spoke to the eight-page draft reorganization plan that’s been rattling East Lansing’s government.
Senior players are forced to retire early from matches in order to make graduation.
The plan called for a substantial remaking of the city government, amassing power in the hands of DEI Director Elaine Hardy.
The staff at Blue Owl Coffee contacted ELPD after numerous high-stress encounters with the man.
The anonymous complaint has been released, as has a statement from Council.
ELi connects the dots on a surprise pair of agenda items.
ELi’s brings you the story behind this important win for the city.
Street sign theft amnesty, a small house with a big history and Falcon Pointe were all dealt with at Tuesday’s meeting.
Residents have been granted one-year land leases as the developers, FP Investors, are seeking a final decision from Council for further development.
FOIA response shows fact-checking notes taken by Superintendent Dori Leyko.
Find out what’s happening at ELi (and hurry if you want to join us tomorrow night).
The crash at the intersection of Lake Lansing Road and Coolidge Road left two dead and six hospitalized.
What did East Lansing’s City Council decide this week?
Who’s leaving, who is back, and what did former employees say about why they left?
Thanks for all your support of this local news service team, East Lansing!
If the project known as “Building C” shifts to a new, local developer who specializes in affordable housing, the number of income-restricted apartments built downtown may go up from 74 to 99. And they’ll be designed for families.
East Lansing’s City Council was busy this week. Find out from ELi what happened.
Why was “catastrophe” looming? ELi explains and tells you what happened with the latest refinance of the Evergreen Properties debt.
Only 12 of the 60 tickets remain, so act fast if you’d like to join us for a screening of “Storm Lake.” Before the film, you can grab dinner and a Storm Lake cocktail and check out an original indoor mural that will be on special display. Plus, meet members of the reporting team!
Why would anyone stand in the middle of the road to watch the sun set in East Lansing? ELi explains.
Superintendent Dori Leyko has provided ELi more information about the hiring process that was used.
An email leaked to ELi provides details on what Superintendent Dori Leyko says led to Shannon Mayfield’s resignation.
This article tells you about the job and why ELi’s Board of Directors is making this move.
The 2-2 vote to not sign the MEDC agreement means the project as proposed will not move forward.
ELi’s Board thanks Ray Vlasin for his exceptional service during a difficult time and looks forward to working as a new leadership team.
McPherson’s resignation adds to a pile of resignations by top East Lansing city administrators.
City Councilmember George Brookover wants two council members in the final round of interviews for department heads.
ELi obtained the grant materials related to the proposed $2.5 million renovation and found some interesting claims made by East Lansing’s former director of planning.
A single threat of violence led to the emergency closure of EL schools and locking of City Hall doors.
Mayor Ron Bacon addressed rumors while Talifarro described “an emotionally challenging and arduous time.”
In what’s become a fairly regular occurrence, ELi received an anonymous tip this afternoon of another major resignation from the City of East Lansing’s workforce.
Interim director of human resources also gives notice joining a wave of people leaving city jobs.
ELPS administrators and Black parents and mentors paint differing pictures of the easing tensions.
The process used for filling the vacant position was decided out of sight of the public.
What’s going on with the city’s pension debt, property values, the cost of staffing and the income tax? And why might a single lawsuit throw everything out of whack this year?
Council members and city officials make emotional statements in the aftermath of the MSU mass shooting.
“This decision should put an end to [Chappelle’s] vindictive crusade,” ELi’s attorney Brian Wassom said about the decision, “and serve as a reassurance to journalists across the state that freedom of the press is still alive and well in Michigan.”
The deadline to apply is coming up fast: Feb. 24 at 4 p.m.
Tomorrow, a special debriefing will help East Lansing’s first responders try together to make some sense of what happened Monday night.
What happened at Monday’s school board meeting? ELi catches you up on the leadership shake-up and expressed public concerns.
Students and other members of the community gathered on Wednesday to mourn and to vow to take action.
A message from ELi’s publisher.
Randy Talifarro’s first formal statement as East Lansing’s interim city manager was about the killings on MSU’s campus.
Shelter in place order has been lifted; ELPS cancels classes for Tuesday.
As of 11 p.m., the shelter-in-place order continued for all of East Lansing.
Local alerts exploded this evening with warnings of an active shooter on the Michigan State University campus.
New board members are well-versed in ELi operations and goals.
In-depth digging (and lots of capitalizations) raise concerns about this foundation.
We’re asking your patience while we work out the bugs at our website.
Trustee Monica Fink is calling out transparency problems with East Lansing’s school board. We explain her objections and the backdrop.
These resignations add to a wave of departures of key city staff that began in advance of City Council deciding to terminate the contract of City Manager George Lahanas last month.
As struggles at East Lansing’s High School are making statewide news, the school’s administration has shifted approaches to student discipline starting today. The school board will meet tonight to discuss a “School Safety Plan.”
The latest in the push to deal with concerns about violence in East Lansing High School.
Learn about ELi’s operations, income and expenses for 2022 in this annual transparency report.
Hundreds turn out for event at Hannah Community Center.
Unusual half-hour meeting included discussion of plans for tonight’s [Jan. 27] “listening session” and much more.
The latest events occur as ELi continues to work to understand what happened at the school on Tuesday morning.
The event is an opportunity for community members to have their say about safety concerns. Meanwhile, ELHS students are calling for the school board president to step down, and the school board has issued a statement.
ELPD called the school to confirm it was, in fact, in lockdown.
The shelter in place lockdown that occurred around 10 a.m. ended late this morning.
If the “test” area for a new form-based zoning code works out, it could be implemented in other parts of East Lansing, too.
An inside look at what’s happening at ELi.
A long-time East Lansing resident says her son was racially profiled by the library director, and she wants the director removed from her position. What comes next is not clear.
You’ve got questions about why East Lansing’s Council just did what it did. We’ve got answers.
Big shake ups in city administration were approved at Tuesday’s Council meeting.
Revised plans will be made public for the first time; new plans include providing performance space.
This is a breaking story and may be updated.
East Lansing’s Human Rights Commission is asking if others think they were discriminated against by DTN. In this report, ELi looks at how the big student housing market impacts housing options for other demographics in East Lansing.
ELi brings you a report on what you might have missed at Council last week and what’s coming up this week, including discussion of the small cell towers being constructed in neighborhoods and the traffic caused by the Starbucks drive-thru on Grand River Ave.
The special session of East Lansing’s City Council was held on a holiday weekend and was not broadcast or recorded for the public. Find out from ELi what the candidates said.
The request to conserve water ended about 3 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 12. Earlier in the day, City of East Lansing has released more information on the water distribution problem.
Both votes passed on a 3-1 split, with a third motion failing. What happens now? Find out from ELi.
ELi obtained the information via the leak of an internal communication. Tom Fehrenbach’s departure adds to the turmoil in the city’s leadership.
Council will convene for a special session on Saturday morning. The five candidates will be interviewed, and then a winner will be chosen.
ELi filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to obtain the applications, so members of the public can see them in advance of Council’s vetting and decision. What did the people who want to be seated on East Lansing’s Council give as their qualifications and reasons? Find out.
“Is that the sun, or is it just me?”
A reader has asked ELi to investigate. So, we just checked the National Weather Service’s website and also looked outside, and we can confirm: the sun is out in East Lansing – for the first time since last year.
“I’m ready to give up, which I suspect is the point,” MSU biostatistician and ELPS parent Ahnalee Brincks told ELi.
Thanks to you, we did it! ELi’s Annual Campaign raised over 78% of what we anticipate will be ELi’s total budget for 2023 ($175,000). This means we can focus our efforts on doing what we came to do: reporting the news for you.
ELi’s supporters have raised over $134,000 to keep the news coming in 2003. Remaining matching funds run out at midnight on Dec. 31. Find out how a commitment of $10/month gets us $240 closer to our goal!
We let you in on what’s coming at ELi in January and February.
ELi brings you the names of who will be considered. Soon, we’ll also be bringing you their applications.
What are we expecting to cover in 2023 for East Lansing? Here’s a rundown.
We took your questions about traffic patrols, downtown robberies and assaults, crime-solving and more to East Lansing Police Captain Chad Pride. Today, we bring you the answers.
So many options!
What’s going on with the City of East Lansing’s pension funds? How much money is marijuana bringing in taxes? What’s going on with the city’s income tax? ELi follows the money and brings you this special report.
What the DDA decides this Thursday could determine not just whether River Caddis Development obtains a special deal that will exclude other developers, but also what gets built next downtown and how much longer the DDA will prolong its bond debt. ELi catches you up.
East Lansing residents who are registered voters are invited to apply for the seat being vacated by Lisa Babcock.
Before the bond refinance passed 3-1, Council members raised questions about why the DDA debt is barely paid off after 13 years, which taxes are being diverted to the DDA, and more.
The four-hour meeting included honors for retiring Judge Richard Ball, discussion on EL becoming a sanctuary city and much more.
On Tuesday, Dec. 6, East Lansing’s City Council is poised to make decisions on whether East Lansing should be declared a Sanctuary City and whether the DDA’s loan on the Evergreen Properties should be refinanced again. ELi explains how you can weigh in.
We’ll be meeting with readers (and people interested in becoming ELi reporters) on Tuesday, Dec. 6, at Hooked.
ELi brings you a special “follow the money” report. Find out how captured taxes are and aren’t being used in East Lansing today and how East Lansing homeowners are carrying the burden of public services for big new buildings downtown.
This article provides supporting material, including answers to readers’ questions, about our special report on the East Lansing Downtown Development Authority’s finances published Nov. 27, 2022, at East Lansing Insider and Nov. 28, 2022, at eastlansinginfo.news. We have organized the questions according to the flow of that report. Don’t see your question answered? Contact us…
Here are the simple truths about ELi.
A reader asked ELi to look into what’s going on with plans for a Trader Joe’s store in East Lansing. We investigated the public record and asked around, and now we bring you the results.
Another failed proposal for the Evergreen Properties, land the DDA purchased almost 15 years ago using public bonds. Those bonds will be refinanced again.
ELi brings you what we know about the review by the five elected East Lansing City Council members and we show you the material released.
How will Lisa Babcock be replaced? Which development proposal does the city staff recommend for 300 new units of housing? And what else happened at East Lansing’s City Council this week?
Should the park be used for a farmers’ market pavilion? Have space for a dog park? A performance venue? Find out from ELi what Planning Commissioners and Historic District Commissioners had to say this week.
![QD at Michigan/Harrison Will Become a Party/Convenience Store [UPDATED]](https://eastlansinginfo.news/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/QD-Closing-768x569.jpg)
The new store expects to open in the next couple months, after liquor license requirements are complete.
It looks like the QD near Brody is closing. We answer a reader’s question about whether a marijuana dispensary could locate there.
Although no public announcement was made about the city manager’s job assessment, Tuesday’s meeting had lots of tension on other issues.
Excitement for the $2 million improvements at Valley Court Park is tempered by concerns about some aspects of the proposal.
The proposal, if successful, would bring a lot more student housing plus another new parking garage to downtown East Lansing.
Councilmembers take on topics of key interest during Oct. 18 meeting before going into closed session to discuss City Manager George Lahanas’s job performance.
The funds for the project are coming from East Lansing’s income tax and federal dollars distributed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
The East Lansing Educational Association is backing incumbents Tera Chambers and Kath Edsall, plus newcomers Tali Faris-Hylen and Jim McEvoy.
Valley Court farmers market pavilion and downtown lighting may be partially funded with HUD CDBG monies.
The sentencing follows a guilty plea of tax evasion arising from what the DOJ describes as Chappelle’s near decade-long effort to prevent the IRS from collecting taxes he and his business owed.
“We do not have enough information to determine whether or not the threats are credible – so we’ll err on the safe side,” said Superintendent Dori Leyko.
At Tuesday’s meeting, Council also went into closed session to evaluate the City Manager and approved a commercial rezoning on the north side.
Only this week did the source of tension over a street-closure policy become apparent. The measure passed, 3-2, after much discussion.
Councilmembers take on a wide-range of topics and issues during Sept. 20 meeting.
![Abbot Park Renamed Azaadiwag Park, Honoring Cottonwoods and Indigenous Peoples [Updated]](https://eastlansinginfo.news/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Elaine-Hardy-and-Nichole-Biber-1-768x771.jpg)
A multi-ethnic team of women drafted a resolution to explain and effect the change.
Find out from ELi what’s happening today and tomorrow that you might not want to miss.
“We are going to do whatever we can to try to curb this issue,” said East Lansing Police Captain Chad Pride.
The mayor hopes to “really aggravate Indianapolis,” and Council is seeking a legal opinion on conflicts of interest. What else happened this Tuesday night?
New documents released by the court show dueling visions of a longtime area real estate developer.
Brookover has been suffering from “a lingering pneumonia” subsequent to a Covid diagnosis.
The city manager and mayor debated use of public funds, as Council member Brookover was absent again.
ELi has expanded its editorial staff with the hiring of Lucas Day as City Desk Editor. Day comes to ELi with a bachelor’s degree in journalism from MSU and experience reporting for The State News as well as other outlets.
The farmers market will likely get a new pavilion. What about other big changes potentially coming to that part of town?
We need your help articulating questions that will help registered voters decide who to back.
ELi brings you up to speed on that big brick wall, the construction site dispute, and what we can expect in terms of taxes and activities once the project opens.
We’re back. And there’s a lot to catch up on. Get connected now.
Exciting step for ELi as relaunch of publication nears
ELi is looking to restart reporting on East Lansing in early September. Read about the plan and how YOU can help make it happen.
This page embeds the PDF of the ELi Task Force Report from Aug. 2022.
We bring you an update from the ELi Task Force, which is drafting recommendations for how to restart publication at ELi.
ELi’s Founder Alice Dreger explains what this two-week pause will entail, including conversations with ELi staff and the community.
Get the inside scoop on ELi’s revenue, expenses, and accomplishments for the calendar year 2021 in our latest annual report to readers.
Catch up with ELi on the latest in downtown East Lansing redevelopment, including potentially in Valley Court Park.
While other local municipalities continue with business as normal, East Lansing’s own government is nearly halted, supposedly over Covid concerns. But who made that decision? ELi’s Alice Dreger reports that we don’t know, still.
While other local municipalities continue with business as normal, East Lansing’s own government is nearly halted, supposedly over Covid concerns. But who made that decision? ELi’s Alice Dreger reports that we don’t know, still.
What will count as prohibited forms of nepotism in the City of East Lansing, and why is the law just coming into effect now?
Santo has been missing since last October. A recent petition had called for damming the river to look for his body. Police have notified the family and expressed their own grief at the outcome.
Mopeds can’t park at bike racks anymore, as a new East Lansing law restricts their parking. And what about those e-scooters left blocking sidewalks?
Why are public health analysts and officials here and elsewhere starting to talk about Covid-19 as akin to the long-familiar seasonal flu among the vaccinated?
What’s going on when ELi seeks a public record a source has told us exists yet the City of East Lansing claims there are “no records found”?
Hundreds of students are reported absent at East Lansing High School, while the City cancels meetings and restricts access to the public library. Meanwhile, the City Manager defends the absence of a vaccine mandate for City workers, including police officers and ELFD paramedics.
Why is Council being told the City’s pension system is 56% funded when the State believes it’s at 51%? We go beyond the graphs presented by the City’s auditors to explain this and a whole lot more.
The plan calls for remote (online) education for the first three weeks of the semester. Learn more from ELi.
ELi’s mission is to bring East Lansing the news. Here’s a look at what we think we’ll be helping you to know about and understand in context in 2022.
What counts as a “public record” when it comes to the cell phones, tablets, and computers used by East Lansing City Council members in the course of their work as elected officials? That’s the central question in an ongoing lawsuit here.
The DDA recently approved spending up to $40,000 of public money to install security cameras downtown. But even before installation, these cameras offer a look into the current state of East Lansing politics and policy on a number of issues. Alice Dreger reports.
ELi’s Publisher gives you a look inside our “newsroom.”
Recently-unionized East Lansing Public Library workers and the administration have signed a contract. Meanwhile, repair costs at the library continue to skyrocket, now reaching twice the originally-accepted bid. What’s going on?
Wrote a reader who contributed via his IRA, “The folks at ELi provide something of real value that almost NO other places have – honest investigative reporting for the people. I’m grateful and want to keep them going.” Learn how to help!
Are those Verizon towers in Bailey functioning? What happened to a little statue at the softball complex? And, of course, we bring you a couple of development updates in this Ask ELi Grab Bag!
When thousands of East Lansing residents were going on three days without Comcast service, ELi’s Alice Dreger pushed for answers. Why does ELi believe this is in keeping with our public service mission?
ELi reached Comcast and was able to confirm the train accident was the source of the widespread outage in East Lansing and Meridian Township. A spokesperson says they expect service to be restored today.
A train caught in wires took down a series of electrical poles along Hagadorn Road, leading to “a mess” according to the Ingham County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management. The sign at Hannah Plaza was destroyed as a result. See contributed photos and learn more in this update.
We bring you an update and tell you about our Weekend Warrior campaign to keep ELi going throughout 2022!
Tonya Williams, Neighborhood Resource Specialist with ELPD, has put the word out that crossing guards are sorely needed to help out the local public schools. But the City is also seeking lots of other workers and also volunteers.
The search continues for the missing 18-year-old Grand Valley State student, contrary to circulating rumors today of a body being found. Police divers are searching the Red Cedar River near Sparty.
The federal Grand Jury returned a 21-page indictment in June 2020, including eight criminal counts, with some involving East Lansing businesses and real estate here and elsewhere. ELi explains.
Why would we be happy that ELi has become history? Find out!
On Monday, ELi reported on the stench that residents say they’ve suffered for decades. On Tuesday night, the City Manager announced that now the City is taking immediate action.
Publisher Alice Dreger explains ELi’s new policy regarding stock donations and how it will help ELi during our 2022 Sustainability Campaign. We also bring you a campaign update!
ELPD and ELFD responded to a call to a house this morning where four people were unconscious. One died at the scene, and the three others were taken to Sparrow Hospital.
Deer culls have historically been controversial in East Lansing, but the City is planning to remove “at least 100” deer this winter. Council member Dana Watson, who has been against the cull, spoke about deer at this week’s meeting.
East Lansing’s City Council is set tonight to discuss the possible use of federal Covid relief dollars to help homeowners prevent basement flooding, but an ELi survey shows that community members have various ideas for how to use these funds.
Alcohol cases at Sparrow’s ER surged, as officers faced a “more destructive” than usual crowd. Newly installed Mayor Ron Bacon is backing Jessy Gregg’s call, saying what’s needed is “a united front against destructive, malicious and dangerous actions.”
Alerts sent out by MSU tonight indicated a man with a gun in the area of Woodmere and Grand River Avenues downtown. ELi brings you the latest and reviews the recent spate of violence in East Lansing.
One reader calls ELi “a minor miracle and greatly appreciated.” So, what is the state of this local public news service? Our publisher brings you an update.
Police have searched by helicopter, foot, drone, boat, and using advanced tracking technology and specialized canines. They are also asking the public to help.
It’s Election Day in East Lansing! Sitting around wondering what to do with yourself until you know who will get those three seats? We have ideas. Want to know more than the candidates’ own PR? We have facts.
What’s happening with that public land sold on eBay? Where might we see commercial redevelopment replace houses on Lake Lansing Road? And what’s happening downtown and north on Abbot Road?
ELPD is looking to identify, arrest, and prosecute those who set fires and destroyed property over the weekend. The scene became “a very serious safety issue for our emergency responders,” according to ELPD Chief Kim Johnson.
We are just $1,540 away from our weekend goal for our 2022 Sustainability Campaign! If you can commit a donation of $250 or more to our match fund, help us out now?
Young people mostly in Spartan garb set fires in EL neighborhoods after MSU beat UM in football. Police and fire officers were well outnumbered. ELi brings you video.
Local officials fear that big parties related to football and Halloween will add additional stress to an already strained hospital system. Alice Dreger reports.
Find out about candidates’ positions, campaign finance analysis, links to videos of the candidates, and so much more in this nonpartisan guide from ELi!
With very little money left in the bank, ELi needs to raise $200,000 to function next year. Can you help us meet that goal by becoming a core donor?
City Council candidate forums, the possibility of a new City Attorney, an issue of representation at the Arts Commission, and parliamentary procedure. Alice Dreger brings updates on all that and more!
The Lansing Area League of Women Voters used ELi readers’ questions for their Council candidate forums, and now you can see the responses. Also: find out more about the live candidate debates coming up, hosted by ASMSU.
ELi catches you up on what’s happening (and not happening) in downtown East Lansing’s real estate redevelopment scene. Check it out!
Another violent crime hit the Ann Street Plaza-area of East Lansing’s downtown this weekend after a fight broke out early Sunday morning. Here is what ELi has learned about the incident.
Get details on Friday’s celebrations and find out what we’ve learned thanks to ELi readers about the history of racial integration in East Lansing.
Only nine months into her term, Graham cited only “personal reasons” for resigning. Who can apply to be appointed?
A lawsuit settlement, hair discrimination, food trucks in neighborhoods, controversially-confidential legal opinions, and more at this week’s East Lansing City Council. Catch up with ELi!
A new apartment building and other big changes coming soon to the Valley Court Park area? Learn the latest from ELi’s Alice Dreger.
“We’re wondering what’s going on, and why this is happening,” said one thirty-year resident of Northlawn Avenue today after the street was hit with extraordinary flooding again.
ELi’s Executive Director and Publisher brings you an update on the alleged-defamation lawsuit launched against ELi and her by real estate developer Scott Chappelle.
Alice Dreger and Andrew Graham bring the results from ELi’s survey of voters for City Council elections. What has voters in the City concerned? Give a listen!
The nonprofit consultant hired to articulate the potential for constructing affordable live-work space for artists in East Lansing is coming to town next week, and now is your chance to have your ideas heard.
On this episode, Alice Dreger and Andrew Graham discuss the aftermath of the heavy rains on Aug. 11-12, and resulting floods. How are the residents who were hardest hit doing? What else did the duo discuss?
ELi’s Publisher Alice Dreger and Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott explain why we don’t post letters to the editor, even though we do carefully read what you send us!
A reader asked about an unusual listing for a house in the Whitehills neighborhood of East Lansing with an asking price of almost $1.4 million. As a result, ELi brings you the story of how a house became an “accessory structure.”
According to ELPD’s press release, “officers do not believe this was a random incident and there is no ongoing threat to the public.”
On this episode, Babcock shares with ELi who she is endorsing in the upcoming Council race and her biggest regret. The team also discusses one of the weirdest things they have covered recently. What was it?
On Monday night (Aug. 30), East Lansing’s downtown will transform into a “Moonlight ExtravaGRANDza” with music, games, and deals directed at MSU students. What’s up?
New figures show that, despite the income tax, East Lansing’s unfunded pension liability is continuing to get bigger every year. But City Manager George Lahanas called the latest report “a very positive move in the right direction.” Why? Alice Dreger reports.
Three members of ELi’s government reporting team talk about changes on Council, the dismantling of the Albert EL Fresco, the disappearance of Ordinance 1500, and more. Give a listen!
Following the record-setting rain on the night of August 11-12, ELi surveyed readers to try to get a sense of where problems might have been grouped. What did we learn? Alice Dreger and Nathan Andrus report.
You may be hearing about local news operations closing all over America. How come we are still here, 7 years in? Find out in our report on ELi’s income and expenses.
2020 U.S. Census data shows that the City’s population fell by about 1.7 percent since the 2010 census, dropping from 48,579 down to 47,741. What does that mean for East Lansing?
ELi is receiving widespread reports of damage by the flooding caused by over 8 inches of rain in just a few hours. Here’s some important information about trash, electrical hazards, and more.
You can help us map out where problems are occurring so that we can do reporting on the East Lansing sewer system and management of it as our climate changes. How can you send us info on your property’s experience?
What’s happening at the corner of Cowley and Michigan Avenues, where an old office building was just demolished? And why has the fire department been busting holes in the roof of 314 Evergreen Ave.?
At the Council of Neighborhood Presidents’ meetings, your neighborhood could have the ear of locally powerful people. But are you represented there?
This is the “Neighborhood Associations Map” of East Lansing as provided by the City of East Lansing as of Aug. 6, 2021.
Why no walk signal across Abbot Road? Could the Woodingham pump station be made to look and smell better? And what’s all that digging at the water plant off Burcham Drive? Ask ELi, and answers you shall receive!
All students, staff, and faculty must be vaccinated against Covid-19 before the start of the fall semester – a move that has effects for not only MSU but also the wider East Lansing community.
More places to relax outdoors, convenient pink parking spots, MSU disciplining problematic off-campus behavior, more people participating in government. Maybe the pandemic hasn’t been all bad?
An ELi reader wrote in to say he finally figured out who was planting flowers at Lake Lansing Road and Towar Avenue, brightening the spot. We share his take in our “Little Local Joys” series.
Aaron Stephens sits down with ELi’s Publisher Alice Dreger and reporter Jack Timothy Harrison after announcing his resignation, effective Aug. 11. Listen to the trio reflect back on his time as mayor.
We bring you updates on who is running for the two and four-year seats and what may happen with Council following Stephens’ forthcoming resignation in August. We also tell you how to apply to serve in the seat being vacated by Stephens.
River Caddis Development has had an exclusive agreement on the DDA’s Evergreen Properties for 15 months, with no significant movement forward. They want more time. But another potential developer is now on the scene.
ELi’s Publisher and Executive Director Alice Dreger and reporter Heather Brothers speak with Dr. Cedrick Heraux, who served on the Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Commission, about policing in East Lansing. Give a listen!
Stephens announced at City Council tonight that he is leaving for graduate school. Gregg will rise to become Mayor, and Council will appoint another member, leaving only two elected representatives on the body of five.
Big policing issues, parking for the Graduate Hotel, lawsuits involving the City of East Lansing, a new outdoor design for Harper’s – all this and MUCH more coming to Council this week. ELi tells you what’s on the agenda…and what’s missing.
Our Publisher Alice Dreger explains in detail what we’re doing to manage a conflict-of-interest problem in the City Council elections.
We have NEWS on the Graduate Hotel’s rooftop bar, the MSUFCU downtown office building plans, entertainment activities downtown (including for kids), and food trucks. Read all about it, only at ELi.
As news organizations all around us keep closing, here’s the reality of where ELi stands.
Almost 50 years ago, East Lansing’s City Council became the first elected body in the nation to protect gay men and lesbians from discrimination. But the landmark resolution is missing from City records. What do we know about East Lansing’s history of protections for LGBTQ+ people?
Joe and Jennifer Bell of The Peanut Barrel, East Lansing High School Principal Andy Wells, education-energizer Diana Tarpoff, and extraordinary friend of the East Lansing Public Library Maureen McCabe-Power have all been honored this year.
Hear the 911 call and learn what went wrong and right when a major gas leak erupted in a residential East Lansing neighborhood on June 3. Are the safety systems working?
Screaming motorcycle engines. Cars giving off what sounds like shotgun blasts. Some in East Lansing are fed up with the noise. ELi’s Alice Dreger reports on the complaints and City government responses.
In this week’s Ask ELi grab bag, we answer four sets of reader questions! Did we pick yours?
Ingham County Road Department is planning a new design for the intersection where Lake Lansing Road meets Towar Avenue, but local transportation advocates are voicing concerns. What do they have to say?
Starting today, you can catch ELi’s weekly East Lansing Insider podcast on The Impact, 88.9 FM!
A contractor was laying cable for Zayo when a gas line was ruptured. The leak was significant, with the scent added to the gas easily detectable a block away. ELi’s Alice Dreger reports.
The accident occurred at the intersection of Saginaw St. and Harrison Rd. Metronet service is down in the area, and other services are also likely affected. ELPD asks people to avoid the area.
If a proposed state law on rentals becomes law, what could it mean for East Lansing? When will the City Manager’s annual evaluation happen? And, when is the MSU Dairy Store reopening? Find out the answers in the latest Ask ELi Grab Bag!
What decisions were made by East Lansing’s City Council this week? Find out in this recap from ELi, your local independent news source.
If a law under consideration is enacted by the State, Airbnb could suddenly become legal where now illegal in East Lansing, and existing rental-restriction overlay districts would be eliminated in Brookfield, Lantern Hill, Oakwood, Whitehills, Old Whitehills, Harrison Meadows, Bailey, Chesterfield Hills, Red Cedar and Ivanhoe, Southeast Marble, Walnut Heights, Farwood, Glencairn, Pinecrest, Hawk Nest, Hawthorn, and Shaw Estates.
City Council’s latest budget discussion revealed some key differences of opinion – including between the City Manager and Council members. Which disagreements grew tense? ELi’s Alice Dreger reports.
When the City Clerk’s office declined to provide a list of people who pulled applications to run for City Council, ELi filed a FOIA request. What did we find out in addition to who might be running for Council?
Thasin Sardar, an Islamic Center Trustee, and Kelli Ellsworth-Etchison, a member of the Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Commission, responded to ELi’s report, while ELPD Deputy Chief Steve Gonzalez promised some reform.
According to a press release from ELPD, “This act of violence does not appear to be random in nature, and there is no ongoing threat in the area.”
Readers have been asking! So we asked Ingham County to give ELi an update, and now we bring you the news of what to expect when.
Vaccination of this age group helps protect people who come into contact with them, including those at much higher risk of illness and death, such as pregnant women. No appointment is necessary at some sites. Find out more from ELi.
The police budget, marijuana revenue, Parks & Rec’s money problems, a key employee’s retirement, the Graduate Hotel’s liquor licenses, dog poop, a sod farm, and more. We bring you up to speed on what you missed at City Council this week.
The editorial board of Portrait, East Lansing High School’s student newspaper, is calling on the leadership of East Lansing Public Schools to attend to concerns they have identified. Board Trustee Monica Fink read a statement in which she also questioned how the district leadership is managing issues of racism and equity. Here is what happened last evening.
What has CATA been doing to respond to the financial and public health challenges of Covid-19? Find out in this special report from ELi.
ELi answers readers’ questions about the ramped path that disappeared from Valley Court Park and the SUVs parked at MSU near Mt. Hope Rd. Plus, we explain what’s about to happen to Abbot Rd.
The expert hired to examine East Lansing’s housing situation brought her findings this week to City Council. So, what did we learn? ELi’s Alice Dreger reports.
Why won’t the City ask MDOT to lower the speeds on Grand River Ave. and Saginaw St.? Does East Lansing have an anaerobic biodigster? And why are trees being cut behind the high school?
An idea being floated would close a lane to benefit the three restaurants of the Center City District project. Why are long-time downtown restaurant owners against this latest placemaking idea?
ELi’s 90-minute public brainstorming session produced a lot of ideas for how the City could increase revenues and reduce expenses. Have a look!
Asked to reply to Dublin Square owner Paul Vlahakis’ complaints about how MSUFCU has treated him, the head of the credit union dropped something of a bombshell revelation. And now the building will be shrunk by 3 feet. ELI’s Andrew Graham and Alice Dreger report.
Here’s a rundown of what we learned last week in the City’s first budget work session of the year. Join ELi Monday night to talk about how the City can save money and increase revenues to try to improve its financial position.
Utility bill distress, environmental pollutants, bike lanes, the Michigan Flyer, rent and mortgage support, new ownership for the Landshark, Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day. All this and more came up in a dense City Council meeting this week. Find out from ELi what happened.
Lansing Area League of Women Voters President Donna Mullins is asking residents to share information about a special Town Hall this Tuesday, as Facebook is blocking the League’s attempts to advertise the redistricting informational forum.
Which publicly-owned buildings will be demolished to create a construction staging area for the credit union’s new downtown office building? And what’s the anticipated construction timeline?
Why did it take a month for the City of East Lansing to investigate a spill of at least 55 gallons of hydraulic oil, an unknown quantity of which went into a private storm drain? And what now?
Mayor Aaron Stephens supported the site plan, saying “It offers a different type [of housing] within the city and definitely housing diversity is something we want.”
Her colleagues shared with ELi their appreciation for her work. What will happen after Larkin’s retirement?
Could revolving funds be used to create a win-win situation for landlords and homeowners in near-university neighborhoods like Chesterfield Hills?
The debate was intense, with many questions raised. And after the vote, Paul Vlahakis showed up and threw doubt on whether this deal will really solve the issues. ELi tells you who voted what way, and why.
Will that unsightly Consumers Energy project near Marble School stay that way? Will the Graduate Hotel rooftop bar use plastic cups? What about that sorority in Chesterfield Hills and that frat in Bailey? Find out in our report from Wednesday’s meeting.
As the Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Commission prepares to present its report and recommendations to the City Council this June, the group wants to hear from more members of the public. How can you participate?
On today’s podcast, Kelli shares her take on the work of the Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Commission and also talks about her own experiences as a Black woman living (and driving) in East Lansing.
Why do City staff and the head of MSUFCU think this is a good plan? And what don’t we know? ELi’s Alice Dreger reports.
Should the East Lansing government spend $30,000 on a feasibility study for an affordable-housing project aimed at “creatives”? Some are enthused, others hesitant. Find out why.
News delivered on paper? How retro! Why would ELi consider such a move? Our founder/publisher explains.
Is this a case of overreach of East Lansing government into private business? Or is it a case of Planning Commission and City Council carrying out their fiduciary responsibilities?
When are the City Council elections? What’s with the Graduate Hotel pedestrian tunnel? Which vendors are coming to the market this Sunday? Answers to these questions and more.
The Parking Department is floating the idea of charging moped users to park downtown. What’s behind the idea? Alice Dreger reports.
What happened at City Council last night? We bring you the run-down.
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We have a date: Mar. 10 at 7 p.m. on Zoom! Take our survey and get ready to join us in a public discussion of what we should value as we work for you at ELi.
It’s Emily’s birthday, and Alice is away, so you’ll see a little less from us for a few days. We hope it makes you appreciate the work of ELi’s team even more!
ELi’s reporting team looked into the City’s Employee Homeownership Program to understand how one relatively unusual benefit has been disbursed.
Who has been benefiting from this program? A Freedom of Information Act request brings the answer.
Did the deer cull result in meat being delivered to local food banks? What’s up with parking at Bailey Park? What will happen with the Biggby lot on Grand River Ave? We bring some updates.
While the City Manager has said he sees “great news” in the big financial picture, a close look at the numbers suggests there is a great deal of uncertainty ahead. The City’s Finance Director says the income tax gives her heartburn in terms of unpredictability.
Visitors to the market will find a wide array of food, including pies, pastas and sauces, goats’ milk and cows’ milk cheeses, fresh eggs, jams, fancy cocktail mixes (just add liquor), and much more. Plus handmade winter hats and gloves, dresses, and aprons.
If the City loses this class action suit, the implications for its finances could be huge. And East Lansing BWL customers could be refunded the franchise fees they’ve paid since 2017.
We answer a reader’s question about a teeth-rattling section of the Lansing River Trail where it enters East Lansing, and ask Ingham County Commissioner Mark Grebner why he has the reputation of being a bit grouchy about the county trails millage.
The idea of changing the Center City District agreements in the way proposed has some roiled. But not everyone thinks it’s a bad idea. ELi’s Alice Dreger reports.
Did workers aim to contain the spill as soon as it happened? What’s happening with the contaminated material collected so far? And what about possible cost increases?
The New Year’s Eve spill turns out to have involved about 55 gallons of hydraulic oil. On Tuesday, Council approved two contracts for the clean-up.
Property owners’ concerns about the draft plan include specific design requirements, review and approval processes, and the big picture of economic redevelopment. The changes could be significant for businesses, neighborhoods, and tax revenues.
In the last four years, ELPD has used force against more Black people than white people, while whites in the population well outnumber Blacks. The City Manager’s call for expert analysis was met with harsh criticism Monday night.
The 15 complaints include instances of employees cheating on time cards, an off-duty officer driving drunk, an officer with uncontrolled rage, an officer joking around with pepper spray, and a case of excessive use of force that involved an officer tasing a suspect, leaving the suspect with a broken collarbone and broken rib. Police investigators found some other complaints unfounded.
People are wondering why they are seeing flocks of robins in East Lansing yards. We bring the answer.
Why is there no walk sign across Abbot Road at that street’s southwest corner with Albert Avenue – where the apartments’ entrance for The Abbot is located? Alice Dreger explains.
The City is working on hiring “an emergency abatement contractor to clean the detention pond, storm infrastructure and to perform any necessary remediation to soils” at the private condo complex.
ELPD Chief Kim Johnson calls the situation “unacceptable” and says he is determined to “take all necessary corrective actions within our agency” if further review of the data bears out the apparent pattern.
The HRC’s discussion on Wednesday evening will likely involve ongoing concerns about police use of force, ELPD policies, racial bias in policing, and policing transparency. ELi’s Alice Dreger explains the context.
Ingham County’s top two prosecutors spoke with East Lansing’s Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Commission about what they’re trying to achieve when they review complaints made against police officers. The discussion involved how an oversight commission could advance transparency and policy-making.
Starting at midnight, on-campus MSU students will be required to stay in their dorm rooms with few exceptions for at least two weeks. What’s the context for the new decision?
Affordable housing for artists, the latest on the eBay-auctioned land, Dunkin Donuts’ and Walgreens’ openings, and lots more news in ELi’s latest East Lansing redevelopment update.
The anchor tenant backed out. The developers want MSU as a partner. And it’s City staff, not the developers, that’s been holding up the sale agreement. Here’s what we learned at today’s DDA meeting, where the vote went 8-2 to extend the exclusive talks another 6 months.
Ordinance 1496, which makes violations of public health orders punishable by a fine from the City of East Lansing, expired on Dec. 31, 2020, and Council forgot to renew it. They met today to fix that.
We bring answers to lots of questions about East Lansing’s income tax, including how working from home may change what you owe.
The City and school district held several important meetings this week. The ELi team brings you the updates.
ELi’s Alice Dreger brings you the latest in the redevelopment deal on the DDA’s debt-ridden Evergreen properties. What’s up with “The CITADEL” now?
Our Executive Director and Publisher brings you ELi’s 2020 Annual Report so you can see what we brought in, what we spent, and what we achieved for East Lansing.
The problem wasn’t actually on our end. Our publisher explains.
We explain what’s happening at two spots on Burcham Drive and two spots on Grand River Avenue in East Lansing in our latest “Ask ELi to Investigate” column.
The library faces financial trouble, calls for ambulances are way down, the mayor asks that mug shots be withheld from press releases, and Council members say what’s on their minds. Read all about it.
We get this question every now and then, so here’s the answer with the investigative backstory.
What’s been going on with police activity on Loree Drive? ELPD has provided some information and more is expected soon.
The presence of abundant, excellent, easy-packing snow has inspired many in East Lansing to go outside and get creative. Jean Weir brings us a delightful selection. Share yours!
ELi is here to provide reporting and editing help as well as online space (at no charge) for East Lansing obituaries and death notices. Our publisher explains more.
ELi gives you a two-minute rundown on what to expect in terms of East Lansing government decisions this week.
We bring you preliminary numbers on our 2021 Sustainability Campaign and tell you what some donors said as they helped last night!
Here’s an update as of 8:30 p.m. on New Year’s Eve.
Our staff compiles the top stories we expect to cover in 2021. But we can never know all that will happen — like, a pandemic — and that’s why we need your financial support.
Hear Peter Sagal of “Wait, Wait, Don’t Tell Me!” explain why YOU should donate to keep ELi running! And, if you donate $50 to this special campaign, you’ll get an autographed copy of Peter’s memoir about running!
We just need a little more money to top off three special-match buckets, all of them captained by people who love East Lansing neighborhoods!
What were the biggest stories in East Lansing for 2020? ELi’s Publisher and Managing Editor bring you the top 10 list.
The City’s use of CDBG funds has been controversial, which might explain holding a public hearing disassociated with any regular body’s meeting and sandwiched between Christmas and New Year’s.
ELi is doing a telethon! Join us on Wednesday to hear from local newsmakers and nationally renown journalists and media commentators, including Dan Savage of “It Gets Better,” John Schwartz of The New York Times, Emily Yoffe of The Atlantic, Emily Nussbaum of The New Yorker, and NPR’s Peter Sagal! No kidding!
ELi is only halfway to its fundraising goal, and we are struggling to get the word out on Facebook. Alice Dreger explains this and answers fundraising-related questions.
The unexpected joy obtained through ELi is providing a place for us to witness and amplify the good of this exceptional community.
ELi is nearly halfway to meeting its fundraising goal for its 2021 Sustainability Campaign. Alice Dreger updates you on that and the feedback we are receiving from our readers.
Purchase an autographed copy of Peter Sagal’s The Incomplete Book of Running. The purchase supports ELi’s Sustainability Campaign, and we can even get it delivered to East Lansing addresses by Christmas Eve!
Get an inside look at ELi’s expenses to see where donated dollars go and to understand why, this year, our Sustainability Campaign goal is higher than last.
Quick hits on the various stories Alice Dreger has been keeping tabs on, from the Center City District bonds to a mysterious public hearing. Read on.
The thought of having our city, East Lansing, be in the dark or be misled when it comes to facts is just too awful a thought. But we are far short of our fundraising need.
Spoiler alert: the developers benefited. And now, with yet another of the deal’s financial protections for the City seeming to fall away, former mayor Mark Meadows is saying that “injunctive relief should be sought.”
Elaine will be remembered for her egoless kindness, her infectious laugh, her visible devotion to those she loved, her love of music, her great cooking, and her solid elegance.
We ran through how to deal with a mass shooting, a series of gas explosions, and a tornado. Our Executive Director and Publisher explains why.
Free delivery on all local grocery orders makes Campbell’s a great choice for staying safe and spending locally.
Gloves, hats, flannel shirts, long underwear, wool socks, backpacks, and way cool gear for social distancing . . . or camping. Find it all at Moosejaw in East Lansing.
The move, motivated by academic and financial concerns, is likely to have a major impact on the economy of East Lansing.
Who is the investor for the refinancing bonds? Mark Bell’s father. Again. And any chance of saving that $6 million in taxes appears to be evaporating.
Expect public discussions and decisions on pensions, policing, a radically new zoning code, and Georgio’s Pizza’s lease — but probably not on those controversial bonds.
Looking for something fun to do? Come play trivia, hosted by the ELi staff. First-place winner gets a Crunchy’s gift card courtesy of our Publisher Alice Dreger!
“I’m from the working class, and when you grow up with working class people, they never think of retiring,” said Richard Liscombe, owner of Footgear. But then came the pandemic.
It’s time to give up on the idea of the perfect gift and buy the gift that will save your local economy. Alice Dreger and Emily Joan Elliott explain why ELi is launching its new series “SPEND LOCALLY”!
One week away from a $2.4 million shortfall for the payment due to the bondholder, many questions remain unanswered. Not least, the $6 million question. ELi’s Alice Dreger reports.
How does ELi cover taxes and finances in East Lansing? Publisher Alice Dreger explains.
A long-planned project will improve sewer infrastructure and change the amount of parking in the area, leaving some displeased. Alice Dreger reports.
The cost of living in and running a business in East Lansing has indeed been going up. Alice Dreger reviews some of the changes.
The Dublin Square property owners are warning MSUFCU to stay off their property during construction that involves building all the way to the property line. What could this mean for the future of the proposed office building?
TechSmith is considering building its new headquarters at Spartan Village and is calling on Council for a personal property tax exemption. Alice Dreger explains what this means.
Tuesday night’s Council meeting confirmed a lot of what ELi has been reporting about the Center City District bonds. What did we learn?
A stacked City Council agenda, another meeting of the Police Oversight Study Committee, School Board, and more. Alice Dreger reports.
Voting today means avoiding any mischief and helping to reduced crowding tomorrow. You have until 4 pm.
Make a donation in support of ELi today and see your tax-deductible gift DOUBLED!
A winter farmers’ market in a parking garage? That and many other East Lansing ideas are coming to government boards this week. We give you a rundown.
Alice has made a short video directed at people who are doing pretty okay financially and who understand the value of ELi. Now is the time.
A new and scorching message from Mark Meadows and a response from Miller Canfield to his claims: the latest in the Center City District bond scene.
The City will host a closed-to-the-public meeting this week to teach members of the City’s boards and commissions about the public’s right to open government.
A new review by ELi of prior meetings on the subject finds yet more evidence that this matter won’t be simple to sort out. See the key video clips now.
What’s going on with the Evergreen Ave. properties? ELi’s Alice Dreger brings you an update.
Alice Dreger takes you through the news and notes from a (very) brief City Council meeting on Tuesday night.
Check out our interactive map of downtown commercial properties in downtown East Lansing, and read our analysis of the information provided by City staff.
Experts are describing the Center City District bonds as “hairy” and having “sharp edges.” What’s so weird about them? Alice Dreger unpacks it for you.
This page tracks materials related to the involvement of TSB Capital Advisors in East Lansing’s Center City District deal. TSB Capital Advisors took credit for having “consulted on construction financing” for this deal, indicating, “This transaction continued the firm’s successful relationship with Harbor Bay Real Estate Advisors.” The following letter from Timothy S. Bradley of…
How come the School Board meeting was cancelled, but the City Manger held an East Lansing government meeting last night? ELi’s Alice Dreger explains what’s been happening.
ELi’s Alice Dreger gives you a fast rundown of what’s coming in public meetings in East Lansing this week. Check it out.
Ever felt frustrated by some error, injustice, or silliness in East Lansing’s Code of Ordinances? Now’s a good time to act! And ELi offers you an easy way to do it.
“What local news does is unite and empower the people who believe that democracy is a moral act.” ELi’s Alice Dreger remembers John Kloswick, her Council-watching partner.
Why is East Lansing’s government poised to take on as much as $4.4M in debt when it doesn’t have to? The execution of the Center City District deal continues to baffle even experts.
What are they building just south of the Aquatic Center? When will Coolidge Road lose a car lane and gain two bike lanes? And what about Harbor Bay and the federal law? All in this week’s Ask ELi grab bag!
Now debates over the Center City Bond are heating up, as staff say the BRA is in danger of default, and Mark Meadows says it’s the developers who owe the shortfall, not the public.
ELPD will have a new police chief, Kim Johnson, starting October 5. Find out more about Johnson and last night’s discussion at Council on policing in East Lansing.
Enthusiasm for the project is high, even as Council members expressed concerns about some elements of the design and about what more construction could mean for downtown businesses.
What happened to the motorcycle parking on Albert Ave.? Is Breugger’s Bagels reopening? And what’s action that on Trowbridge Road? You ask. We answer.
Contract through 2024 for the City Manager? Pave over more of Sharp Park for bike parking? Reduce car lanes further on Abbot? ELi’s Alice Dreger tells you what’s up this week and how you can weigh in.
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ELi brings you the list of houses now quarantined. We also explain what some critics have to say about the local approaches being used.
The project has generated excitement, but a long-time Planning Commissioner tells ELi, “I’m tremendously disappointed that my Credit Union is taking shortcuts on this project, rather than going for a truly first-class presence downtown.” What are his concerns?
A total of 256 people took our survey about ELi posting at Facebook. We bring you the results.
Facebook filters what you see based on Facebook’s interests. If your OWN interest is in making sure you see every news report from ELi shortly after it is published at our website, follow these instructions to make sure ELi pushes to your news feed. If you’re accessing Facebook through a computer, scan down this page…
A public hearing on the matter will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 15. ELi brings you details on that.
East Lansing has got young people desiring freedom, police who have been told generally to back-off enforcement, public health experts who are wary of using sticks instead of carrots, a relatively new university administration, and a very new City Council. And numbers that are rising. ELi’s Alice Dreger reports.
“They need to abide by the terms of this agreement,” twenty-two tenants tell City Council about the Center City developers. Popular opinion appears aligned with the tenants.
While many Michigan cities and schools are slashing budgets in response to the economic fallout of the Covid-19 pandemic, East Lansing’s City Manager tells Council he has “actually some pretty good news.”
East Lansing businesses with low-income employees can now apply to receive up to $10,000 in grant assistance.
It’s true: if you park in the old Biggby’s lot without permission, you may not find your car there when you come back.
“We will continue to operate under the conviction that extraordinary actors in our city require extraordinary scrutiny. Especially when they are seeking the taxpayers’ money.”
East Lansing will soon engage a new City Attorney. What are Council members hoping for?
Council will meet Thursday night to decide which of the eight applicants will get an interview and what questions they will be asked.
ELi undergoes a transition (which may temporarily impact our news production) and asks you to consider taking a couple of steps to help us stay connected to you.
Those who knew David Krause remember him not only for his many significant three-dimensional contributions, but also for his constant work boosting East Lansing and its town-gown connections.
The Abbot has received clearance to open, and move-in will start tomorrow.
Want to send a happy message about a person or institution at the top of our daily mailer? You now can!
City Council’s meeting for tonight is being rescheduled for next Monday due to technical difficulties.
MSU announced late Tuesday afternoon that it is suspending in-person learning for undergraduate courses for the fall semester. The impact on East Lansing will be significant.
Outdoor parties will be limited to 25 people under a new County Health rule applied to part of East Lansing. How will this work in practice?
East Lansing’s Council took up many issues of equity and racism at last week’s five-hour meeting, including passing an anti-bias law and authorizing the use of $153K for anti-racism training.
Following unanimous votes by the new Council, adults 21 and up will be able to buy marijuana for non-medical use at three East Lansing locations. What happened with “social equity”?
School Board Member Chris Martin is looking at other districts’ plans and thinks that ELPS is too far behind. ELi asked the rest of the School Board and the Superintendent to respond.
“We are hearing over and over about how tight the site is,” Planning Commissioner Chris Wolf said before voting against the proposal. “What I’m getting from that is that the building is too large for the site.” The rest of the commission supported it.
City Council is putting off possibly asking voters whether to add 2 seats to the Council, bringing the total seats from 5 to 7.
Wearing matching t-shirts saying “good trouble,” the new City Council met for the first time last night. We give you a rundown of what happened during those five hours.
Planning Commission will likely vote on a recommendation for the MSUFCU proposal tonight. ELi brings you the details with images and maps.
With Harper’s still closed after the COVID-19 outbreak, the owners are now defending themselves against recent accusations of unsafe conditions and failure to fully compensate workers.
ELi readers are excited to hear our work mentioned on Fresh Air this week. Want to know the backstory?
Council will likely soon name new members of the Planning Commission, DDA, BRA, and Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Commission.
City Manager George Lahanas’s contract is worth over $200,000 per year. Mayor Aaron Stephens wants to extend it now, without a performance review.
River Caddis Development has put together a draft agreement that would shift yet more of The CITADEL project costs onto the public ledger. For now, East Lansing’s DDA has agreed to more talks.
The City Council is seeking a new city attorney, and the DDA and BRA are looking for an attorney and a financial advisor. What’s up?
Harper’s owner Pat Riley warned today that COVID-19 is “a silent invisible thief” who steals your business’s reputation. He made his case to the Michigan Liquor Control Commission for reopening Harper’s.
The plan will create a new branch within ELPD to respond to things like mental health crises, neighbor conflict resolution, and quality of life complaints.
East Lansing’s Brownfield Redevelopment Authority learned a lot more this week about the $25M existing bond and voted to get a financial advisor before committing to a refinancing proposal.
A special meeting of the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority has been called to deal with major questions about what the City really owes the developer in taxes on the Center City District deal.
Instead of the Jackson County prosecutor – a Republican – functioning as the Special Prosecutor – now the case will be reviewed by the Washtenaw County prosecutor – a Democrat. Stephenson’s lawyer is concerned “that a fix is in.”
Is East Lansing’s Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (BRA) about to accidentally issue over $2 million in essentially worthless bonds?
It appears possible that there is now a City Council majority willing to revise or even end the City Attorney’s contract. But Tuesday’s agenda doesn’t tell us much.
The developer came well armed with representatives, but the City went in with no financial advisor to this deal. Its usual advisor is actually being paid with public money to represent the developers.
Jackson County prosecutor Jerard Jarzynka will act as the special prosecutor to review a Black man’s complaint of alleged excessive use of force by ELPD Officer Andrew Stephenson, who is white.
The Bell family of developers is back. What new Center City District public financing deal will be made with them this time? ELi’s Alice Dreger reports what we know.
Council member Lisa Babcock strongly objected to handing over to the Mayor wide and unspecified powers during declared States of Emergency.
ELi’s Alice Dreger explains how Big Marijuana came to dominate East Lansing’s business scene and why some think it’s high time to pursue “Social Equity.”
ELi’s Alice Dreger and Chris Root tell you what stands out in the submitted plans and what comes next in the review process.
The new order will reduce capacity in 19 East Lansing establishments. We tell you which and bring reactions from City Council members and one restaurant owner.
What’s closed, what’s opening, what’s happening along East Lansing’s main strip? The latest from ELi.
East Lansing made national headlines thanks to the outbreak at Harper’s. Now businesses downtown are trying to manage the problem.
Cases of the coronavirus tied to people who visited Harper’s are now up to 76. None of those people have been hospitalized.
Officer Andrew Stephenson’s defense attorney has strongly criticized Mayor Ruth Beier’s remarks about his client. Citizens came forward this week to join him in his criticisms.
This page archives the annual reports of the East Lansing Police Department.
This decision has been a long time coming. It’s made in the service of our core mission: bringing accurate and timely news of East Lansing.
Free parking ends June 30. Georgio’s has asked the City for rent forgiveness, but the parking system can’t afford it. The finances look bad.
According to Ingham County Health Officer Linda Vail, the 22 cases include one employee. What can government officials do to compel masks and other interventions?
Consumers Energy is on the scene working to fix the problem. Roads and the picnic area are expected to be closed the rest of the day.
As Harper’s closes for cleaning, ELi hears from the owners about what they say the City has done wrong. What’s going to happen here come fall?
“There was one arrest made,” ELPD Captain Chad Connelly tells ELi.
News on The Abbot, The Graduate, affordable housing, Coleman Road, the new elementary schools, MSUFCU’s downtown project, and marijuana sales locations. We also tell you where in East Lansing the state’s wetland protection agency plans a new office building that would disturb a wetland.
Here come requests to sell recreational marijuana, the superintendent’s (closed door) review, teacher and police retirements, and so much more. ELi keeps you informed before the decisions are made.
This week, a majority of Council okayed new vests in spite of concerns they might appear too militaristic. What was the reasoning, and why are ELPD officers firing guns when they do?
Attorney Mike Nichols says Mayor Ruth Beier is out of line with her comments about his client, ELPD Officer Andrew Stephenson. He explains for ELi what he sees on the tapes.
Is big new office space viable? What tax incentives will the developers want? And what does the new “stakeholders” team think of it all?
Slotkin said she favors police reform, not defunding police, and that she hopes to see MSU and East Lansing’s leaders work together on the COVID-19 public health emergency.
What delights can you expect to find at the market on this beautiful day in East Lansing?
Tables will be available 11 am to 10 pm for people who want to sit and enjoy food and drink purchased from restaurants within a 3-block radius.
Ingham County Prosecutor Carol Siemon has informed ELi that she is taking a major step in the ongoing investigation into the actions of ELPD Officer Andrew Stephenson, accused by two African American men of brutality.
Until now, East Lansing’s DDA has relied on City Attorney Tom Yeadon. Now it is moving to hire independent counsel.
Why did everything about the investigation into the two excessive force complaints against Stephenson stop in early May and suddenly restart in early June?
Beier declared herself “fully woke,” Stephens wants social workers in the police department, Meadows defended his claim “good cops don’t protect bad cops,” Babcock was largely silent, and Gregg wants to look at defunding the police.
A day after ELi’s Patty Bonito reported it’d be a long time before playgrounds and the dog park would reopen, the Parks & Rec Director changed his mind.
The stunning reversal is said to be the result of the City and County Prosecutor realizing there had been a communication mishap, due partly to the State Police.
ELi’s Alice Dreger reports on what video from Sunday seems to show and how East Lansing Interim Police Chief Steve Gonzalez is seeing the protests.
Expect fresh eggs, bread, herbs, spring onions, rhubarb, honey, syrup, greens, cheeses and meat, mushrooms, jams, fermentations, and more.
For years, citizen watchdogs warned the City of East Lansing not to continue partnering with Chappelle. If convicted on the bank fraud charge, he faces up to 30 years in prison.
ELi has been made aware of at least three cases of this, and East Lansing Police detectives are now seeking more information from community members.
The filing of Chapter 11 bankruptcy by HopCat’s parent company speaks to the level of distress in the bar and restaurant industry. The City of East Lansing is trying to help out.
A reader wondered why one ELPD car was left in the middle of the parking lot as protestors approached on Sunday.
Protestors called for the firing of an ELPD officer and dropping of charges against a black man who that officer injured and then held down with his knee.
As protestors prepare to gather again at ELPD at noon, East Lansing Mayor Ruth Beier tells ELi that she wants big changes in policing here.
About a thousand people came to protest at East Lansing Police headquarters today as part of nationwide protests against racist police brutality. In a tense stand-off, a police vehicle’s windows were smashed.
As we have another round of “free” yard-waste pick-up coming, we answer a reader’s question about what this is costing.
ELi brings you the latest news on this project, including about the design, timing, and environmental contamination at the site.
Just about the only people not eligible to serve on the study committee are those who are active-duty police officers.
“It’s going to be scarier for the city than I think it is for campus,” Beier said about MSU’s decision to reopen in the fall.
The vote happened in the shadow of the police killing of George Floyd and amidst more calls for firing ELPD Officer Andrew Stephenson.
A rep for Barrio’s says that restaurant will reopen if Albert Ave. is closed off for outside take-out dining. But Jolly Pumpkin won’t open before Labor Day.
East Lansing’s City Government is getting busy. What’s up?
Chris Martin wants open conversations about what to do with regard to the start of the next school year. The entire School Board will talk about the superintendent’s evaluation on Tuesday.
Housing Administrator Annette Irwin told a city commission last night that all bets are off in terms of when we might see that long-awaited housing study.
Representatives of the police unions say “the City Council shows an obvious disdain for our law enforcement officers” as talks continue on policing in East Lansing.
The Red Cedar River is up over its banks. ELi’s Gary Caldwell brings us photos.
Parking revenues have taken a steep dive. Fees and fines are way down. The shortfall in the Parks & Rec budget looks to be $300,000. And with MSU shuttered, the income tax can’t save us now.
Following release of police body cam video, citizens and at least one Human Relations Commissioner are demanding more action by ELPD, the East Lansing City Manager, and City Council.
Marcy Gillespie Kinzer of the Playmakers team updates us on the store’s “fit at home” and virtual injury clinic help. And this Sunday, you can move to share the 517 love.
Who will work with the developers to try to hammer out a deal this time? And why did the vote split 5-4?
New developments in the shake-up at ELPD: videos from December are released, and changes are in the works.
We bring news on construction at all six elementary schools, including what we know so far about the finances.
Did a City worker really roll a recycling truck? Is the hybrid truck too expensive to fix? We asked.
What’s fair to charge bars and restaurants in East Lansing? And should liquor licenses be more heavily regulated here?
We bring news on how the Peppermint Creek fundraiser did for the local volunteer sewing army and also provide a general update on the homemade production of masks.
Thank you, ELi readers, for your generous donations and wonderfully supportive words!
We tell you what we know so far about what will be discussed at City Council, School Board, and the DDA.
City Council will pursue a Citizen Oversight Panel for complaints, and ELPD will look anew at “head stabilization” in light of injuries to two black men.
What’s happening with Newman Lofts, police oversight, big downtown construction, and more? ELi brings you up to speed.
It’s a good thing the East Lansing Public Schools district has saved millions of dollars to prepare for economic declines.
Gotcha says scooters can be helpful during a pandemic. The City replies, “Wash your hands!”
ELi brings you information about agendas and tells you how you can attend.
The DDA will meet Thursday to decide on criteria for $250K in grants to local businesses. We explain what’s been decided so far.
ELi is working to help you figure out when important local government meetings are happening.
We have now lined up $6,300 in match commitments from local donors, and so far we’ve brought in $1,356 in additional donations.
The mayor doesn’t want to be led with an offer of an office building and told later the developers want to construct towering student housing.
The credit union is going ahead. But the City’s Planning Director says they’ve put the housing study on hold. Why?
With the only active proposal for the DDA’s properties, River Caddis Development wants an exclusive agreement. But do they have a viable concept?
Mayor Ruth Beier says virtual meetings are not a good way to conduct the public’s business. The other four members of Council say the show must go on.
Internal emails give a glimpse into what led up to the Continuity of Learning plan that begins Week 1 today for East Lansing Public Schools.
Can you help us stimulate local reporting and local jobs with some of your stimulus check?
East Lansing’s Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem are willing to consider converting the senior housing to some other uses.
Many predicted this would happen, but few expected it so soon. What now?
With work halted under the governor’s orders, it’s unclear what East Lansing’s elementary schools’ populations will be facing next year.
Find out how to find more!
Which City of East Lansing government meetings are starting up again, and which have yet to resume?
A wave of layoffs speaks to the massive financial challenges faced by the government and businesses of East Lansing.
Haslett Public Schools have geared back up. But East Lansing’s still haven’t. The School Board meets tonight.
Our publisher pauses to answer the question, “How is ELi doing?”
Tenants for The Abbot signed leases expecting a summer move-in. The developer thinks work should be allowed to continue.
East Lansing Info (ELi) isn’t just about producing meaningful news for the people of the East Lansing area. It’s also about engaging our community in the process of public-service journalism so that we increase media literacy and appreciation for high-quality journalism. We believe it is our job to help the people of our community learn…
ELi’s Publisher explains why the ELi team decided to create a whole new website for our readers.
What African Americans have been saying for years has now been shown conclusively: stops made by East Lansing Police Department officers evidence a cumulative racial bias.
Data are showing conclusively that coronavirus has been spreading in Ingham County. Local experts say the real numbers are definitely above the official counts.
The crane is no longer moving at The Abbot. But there’s some good news from the project. ELi’s Alice Dreger reports.
What’s it like reporting during a pandemic? ELi reporter Emily Joan Elliott and photographer Gary Caldwell share their experiences.
The East Lansing schools-based system for emergency food distribution is changing starting now, and meals will be available for seniors on Wednesday.
East Lansing Mayor Ruth Beier is angry that the federal, state, and county governments did not act much sooner on COVID-19. ELi spoke with her just after the Governor’s stay-at-home order.
People who owe the City of East Lansing an income tax return for 2019 now have until July 31 to file. But what’s the outlook for the City’s finances now?
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer isn’t the only East Lansing Public Schools parent who wishes kids could keep learning for credit during the public health emergency. What’s going on?
East Lansing’s emergency services providers are now taking special measures to reduce the odds that they will be exposed to COVID-19. ELi spoke with the police and fire chiefs to learn more.
City Council met today to extend East Lansing’s State of Emergency. ELi’s Alice Dreger donned a mask to attend and report for you what happened.
At Burcham Hills, elimination of communal activities is one of the protections in place during the coronavirus emergency. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott spoke to residents about their concerns.
Many businesses are offering by-appointment help but make sure to call ahead. There are college students willing to help, if you need it. ELi’s Alice Dreger helps by filing this rundown.
Friday morning 3/20/20 at 10 a.m., East Lansing’s City Council will meet partly electronically to vote whether to extend our local State of Emergency.
The Census Bureau is saying students who normally attend school here should be counted as living here for the census. But will they be?
With one developer pulling out, leaving only one left, this isn’t what East Lansing’s DDA had in mind when it sent out a call to developers about the Evergreen properties.
Mayor Ruth Beier has declared a state of emergency in East Lansing. We tell you in practical terms what that means.
Even before Ingham County Health issued a new order, some East Lansing bars and restaurants were moving to help “flatten the curve.” All face grave economic uncertainty.
East Lansing City leaders are working steadily to try to figure out a way to reduce or eliminate bar crowds in East Lansing to try to slow the spread of the coronavirus. ELi’s Alice Dreger reports.
The East Lansing Public Schools administration has announced plans for feeding children during the public health emergency now ongoing. Here are the details.
“Social distancing even one day sooner will save lives,” says the dean of Michigan State University’s College of Human Medicine. What does that look like for people in East Lansing?
East Lansing Public Schools’ superintendent told district families this afternoon, “We are in the process of making plans for if/when we are directed to close.” ELi’s Alice Dreger reports.
Superintendent Dori Leyko explains the latest delay in the completion of building projects at both Donley and Glencairn elementary schools.
East Lansing Info (ELi) provides nonpartisan, nonprofit, meaningful local news and information about East Lansing, Michigan. We take donations from the community and engage a team of paid and volunteer citizen reporters in the process of bringing high-quality, accurate, relevant reports of life in East Lansing. Today we bring you a report of our activities…
East Lansing Info (ELi) serves as this community’s dedicated independent local news organization. We are a public service news organization, operating in 2018 entirely on funds donated by readers, using local citizens as reporters. Our work is nonpartisan, noneditorial, and nonprofit. Today we bring you this report on our activities in 2018, including details on…