A procedural change moving closed sessions to the start of council meetings will leave residents not knowing when important proceedings will begin, including public comment.
The almost balanced budget proposal comes months after a financial forecast projected the city would be bankrupt within five years without adjustments.
Starting with the April 28 meeting, discussion-only meetings will begin at 6 p.m. and regular meetings will start at 6:30 p.m.
A series of controversies have brought hours of public comment to City Council meetings during the last several months.
Budget season is officially underway in East Lansing, as the City Council heard an overview of spending and revenue at its meeting on Tuesday. The presentation showed that the city is expected to operate with a surplus during the current fiscal year, and is budgeted to run with a deficit next year. Additionally, several city…
A city committee assembled to review local finances has spent much of the first half of its review period studying components of the city budget. Next, it will recommend changes.
Members of a committee that recommended changes to the City Charter don’t believe votes on the 29 proposed amendments should be spaced out across several ballots, as is being discussed.
A city committee tasked with analyzing East Lansing’s finances is two months into a review period that is expected to last at least six months.
A months-long discussion on proposed bans to public camping and loitering in parking areas will continue when the ordinances return to City Council next month.
The proposed public camping and loitering bans drew hours of condemnation from residents at a meeting earlier this month, and could be adopted by the East Lansing City Council at its meeting tonight.
Council approved an introduction of ordinances banning public camping and loitering in parking areas at Tuesday’s meeting. But comments made at the meeting raise doubt council will ever pass the ordinances.
City staff has identified $52 million in federal funds that have been allocated to the city.
Taxpayers have lost more than $2 million on the Evergreen Avenue properties, even before the DDA has started to pay down the more than $5 million owed on the properties.
East Lansing City Council members are in the process of reviewing 29 recommended amendments to the city’s guiding government document which could appear on ballots over the next several elections. Council members met on Tuesday to hear from City Attorney Steven Joppich about the recommendations made by the city’s Charter Review Committee, which held 19…
Speaking in Detroit on Tuesday, Trump said federal funding will be cut off from sanctuary jurisdictions starting Feb. 1.
Sisters and East Lansing High School graduates Amy and Emily Gordon work together to run the city clerk’s office.
City officials have taken varied stances on the state of local finances. A team of volunteers will soon take a deep dive into the numbers to recommend action.
City Council voted make Erik Altmann the mayor of East Lansing at its first meeting since the Nov. 4 election.
The five member East Lansing City Council will select a mayor among themselves tonight.
Two candidates received far more support than others in the field, but no one appeared on the majority of ballots.
Steve Whelan and Chuck Grigsby will join Mark Meadows, Kerry Ebersole Singh and Erik Altmann on the East Lansing City Council.
Several city commissions are looking for volunteers.
Following the forum, ELi asked candidates if they’d support calls from city commissions that ask ELPD Chief Jen Brown be removed from her position.
City officials have said all of the ordinance changes are necessary because of a judge’s ruling and a collective bargaining agreement. Members of the oversight commission disagree.
The committee passed 23 resolutions proposing changes to East Lansing’s guiding document.
This year, six candidates are competing for two seats on the East Lansing City Council. To get to know candidates better, ELi asked candidates to respond to three different questions in 200 words or less. The third and final question we asked candidates was about their ideas to improve environmental sustainability. The question reads as…
Candidates for East Lansing City Council responded to questions from ELi.
Candidates for East Lansing City Council responded to questions from ELi.
About 5,000 federal civilian employees live in Michigan’s 7th Congressional District, which includes East Lansing.
Prepare to cast your ballot by reviewing our reporting on the upcoming election.
Low compensation for council members may cause burnout for elected officials and make the elected positions unfeasible for many community members.
The city also reached a new three-year contract with City Manager Robert Belleman.
The forum is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. and each of the six candidates are expected to attend.
The city reached a new contract with its labor counsel just months ago. But after every lawyer in the firm’s labor department left, council voted to approve a new contract at roughly double the rate.
The committee, which is designed to carry seven members, drew interest from just three applicants.
This is the final story in a series about the six candidates for East Lansing City Council.
This is the fifth story in a series of six introducing candidates for East Lansing City Council.
This is the fourth story in a series of six introducing candidates for East Lansing City Council.
This is the third story in a series of six introducing candidates for East Lansing City Council.
This is the second story in a series of six introducing candidates for East Lansing City Council.
This is the first story in a series of six introducing candidates for East Lansing City Council.
If the millage passes, property taxes will increase by two mills and the Parks and Recreation Department will be insulated from cuts. If it fails, the implications are less clear.
If voters approve the millage, it would provide nearly $3 million of funding dedicated to the city’s Parks, Recreation and Arts Department.
Cyber scams are making people less likely to engage with texts or emails from unknown senders – even if it’s for a legitimate cause.
Members of the city’s police oversight commission say changes are being made to the commission that are unnecessary under a new agreement with the union representing ELPD patrol officers.
The HRC discussed the possibility of East Lansing purchasing pods to temporarily house people, a move that would mirror recent action by the Lansing City Council.
ELi and the Lansing Area League of Women Voters will team up to host a City Council Candidate forum Wednesday, Sept. 17.
With key departments still led by interim directors and institutional knowledge lost, city leaders work to stabilize staffing and restore momentum.
DeShambo spent 13 years working for the City of East Lansing before retiring last week
Brookover will step down after serving four years on City Council – two as mayor.
ELi has now identified five residents who intend to run for City Council.
The millage and charter amendment will likely be decided by voters during the November election.
“We’re gonna see hundreds of thousands of hours that are being lost from the most vulnerable communities around the country,” one local nonprofit leader told ELi.
ELi has learned of three candidates who plan to run in November’s City Council election.
Council will revisit an ordinance that stops ELPD from conducting pretextual stops in most cases after Councilmember Erik Altmann suggested the “loud exhaust” provision be removed.
The city is budgeted to carry a roughly $2 million deficit next fiscal year.
City Council will finalize the city budget for fiscal year 2026 at a meeting tonight.
The decision to switch attorneys was made in a narrow 3-2 vote, with a couple council members balking at the higher hourly rate of the new firm.
Council passed a resolution to adjust next year’s budget to chip away at the deficit, but the biggest part of the initial proposal was left off.
With the city slated to operate under a $3.1 million deficit next year, city leaders are looking for ways to cut spending or raise revenue.
Proposals to chip away at the deficit include a major cut to parks funding.
Watson hopes by announcing early that she will not run for reelection, more candidates enter the race.
The city is grappling with a projected deficit of more than $3.1 million in the next fiscal year.
Council hopes increased flexibility for how the city’s public art fund can be used brings “Sound Gardens” and public art classes or workshops to the city.
Budget season is upon us and City Council dove into discussions about the deficit the general fund is proposed to operate under in the next fiscal year, the impact inflation is having on infrastructure improvements and how big projects on Michigan State University’s campus may impact the city’s finances. City department heads gave presentations on…
Noisy and speeding cars has been a common complaint in East Lansing for years – but no solution appears to be imminent.
So far, the committee has recommended 19 changes to East Lansing’s guiding document.
El Fresco will have the same layout as last year, which is smaller than prior years.
Council received a progress report on goals it set at the start of last year.
Belleman’s scores showed no glaring holes in the city manager’s performance–though written comments showed some officials would like him to be more present in the community.
Last May, council put a moratorium on business license fees, asking staff to come up with a fee structure that is more fair.
In a wide ranging interview, Belleman talked about potential revenue streams, spending cuts, the city’s pension debt and uncertainties East Lansing will need to address.
The troubling forecast left one council member asking if the city could face bankruptcy.
The city accepted a $185,000 settlement after initially seeking more than $825,000.
The funds will be divided between nine different applicants.
The progress report was developed by city staff to give an update on where they believe the city stands in carrying out goals set by council last year.
Council opted to not publicly discuss the Michigan Supreme Court ruling against the city, instead talking about the suit in closed-session.
The court found East Lansing issued a “disguised tax” through BWL bills.
The since-rescinded order caused a local homeless shelter to wonder if its scheduled funding would ever arrive, and early learning centers to close for a day.
Executive Orders targeting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programs have impacted work on the Michigan State University campus.
Had the vote passed, the city would have taken legal action to challenge the validity of Proposal 1, a City Charter amendment approved by voters at the November 2024 election.
The city will seek proposals for a new building to relocate city hall to, a site to construct a new city hall or renovations to improve the current site.
Council held a public hearing on a rezoning request from Hagan Realty.
After serving as clerk from 2011-2018, Marie Wicks came out of retirement in 2023.
City Council continues to search a solution for loud cars driving on busy streets, but a shortage of police officers makes enforcing noise ordinances difficult.
The seasonal sauna park will operate from January through April 2025.
At the Nov. 19 City Council meeting, several residents in favor of the charter amendment voiced their belief that the city is exploring legal action to nullify parts of Proposal 1, which was recently approved by voters.
Council hopes the incentive system brings environmentally friendly buildings and affordable units.
Nearly 83% of votes from the five precincts on the MSU campus were in favor of Proposal 1. Overall, about 54% of votes were “yes” on the charter amendment.
Abbie Tykocki, Elizabeth Lyons, Estrella Torrez and Chris Martin were elected to the school board, and other outcomes from yesterday’s election.
More than 5,500 voters have already cast their ballot at an Early Voting Center.
Incumbent Democrat Patrick Lindemann is being challenged by Republican Brian Bruce Beauchine to serve as Ingham County drain commissioner.
The Register of Deeds office records, indexes and retains “documents that convey or encumber real estate located within the county.”
Council voted to move forward with the trail extension, instead of delaying the project until 2028.
Election Day is two weeks from tomorrow!
Besides the major agenda items, City Manager Robert Belleman shared at the meeting that the city is struggling to fill some key positions.
More than 150 students were registered or pre-registered to vote.
After being appointed as the county’s prosecuting attorney two years ago, John Dewane is running for a full term. He is challenged by Republican Norm Shinkle.
The city’s police oversight commission shared its 2023 annual report, and BWL reps spoke about rate increases, and future energy projects.
Over the next several weeks, ELi will bring you articles highlighting the choices for state- and county-wide election. We seek to interview each of the major candidates for these offices and share an objective look at their backgrounds and goals for office. Today, we focus on Ingham County Sheriff. With its administrative offices in the…
City Manager Robert Belleman said he believes it would be “premature” to put a moratorium on developments while the city investigates its stormwater management standards at the Oct. 1 City Council meeting.
Hear from candidates on why they feel they are best suited to represent Michigan’s 75th District.
Hear from candidates on why they feel they are best suited to represent Michigan’s 73rd District.
Election Day is more than a month away, but voting officially started today.
The city hopes new proposed ordinance changes address resident concerns about its housing and rental regulations.
BWL will increase its rates at the start of October.
The committee started its year-long review of the city charter at a Thursday, Aug. 22 meeting.
Council approved a gas station and convenience store, and a multi-tenant retail and restaurant space at its Aug. 13 meeting.
Diane Goddeeris, Jonathan Forman, Jeffrey Hank, Veronica Wilkerson-Johnson, Ruben Martinez, Jill Rhode and Pam Weil have been selected to serve on the charter review committee.
The polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. for today’s primary election.
“The proposed charter amendment below was initiated by a citizen initiated petition and not the East Lansing City Council,” the revised caption reads.
A special City Council meeting to be held tomorrow (July 31) at 6 p.m. was added to the city calendar this morning.
For years, flooding has hurt residents around East Lansing. A solution to the problem seems far away.
While the Presidential election gathers most headlines, there are important local items to be decided at the looming elections.
Yesterday, President Joe Biden announced he would not seek reelection.
No major votes were held, but the Planning Discussion held important discussions around tree removals, a new bed and breakfast definition and a proposed motel.
While council isn’t scheduled to make a final decision on members of the charter review committee until August, Brookover’s memo shows which candidates have an inside track to being appointed.
In addition to council settling on an August selection date, City Attorney Anthony Chubb explained the limited scope the committee will have at the June 18 City Council meeting.
Residents circulating a petition to change the city charter and two members of City Council have offered drastically different interpretations of what the amendment would do.
Applications to serve on the East Lansing charter review committee are due by June 15.
After being recommended by the Planning Commission in January, a proposal for retail spaces and a drive thru restaurant on Lake Lansing Road could not win over approval from City Council at the Tuesday, June 4 meeting.
The DDA is hopeful to soon find a firm to market its Evergreen Avenue properties.
The budget is finally set for fiscal year 2025.
There was a packed agenda for this week’s City Council meeting.
The DDA will again look to find the right development for its long-held properties.
City staff returned for the second straight week to present on budget requests, Tuesday, April 23.
Planning, Building and Development Director Annette Irwin still carries the reputation of a “Worker Bee” even after 27 years of service to the city.
The new fiscal year will start July 1, 2024.
Street closures allowing for Albert El Fresco starting April 29 were approved by City Council.
Council hopes to hear a plan that does not downsize the El Fresco area so much before it is scheduled to open on April 29.
The Planning Commission recommended approval on a pair of items, while tabling proposed rezoning that would allow for a Grove Street B&B.
For years, the city has struggled with its underfunded pension plan. Now, there appears to be a path forward – but there is work to do.
Though controversial, the amendments to the ordinance regulating the city’s police oversight commission are meant to provide clarity, and not change how the commission functions.
The city’s lobbyist spoke at the March 12 discussion-only City Council meeting to update Council on proposed legislation that would regulate short term rentals. Council was not in favor of the legislation in its current form, however.
Three public hearings were held at the Feb. 28 Planning Commission meeting. One regarded tree removals, another addressed a solar energy ordinance and the third revisited a B&B that is proposed for Grove Street.
City Council held a special meeting to narrow down a large list of priorities for 2024 and 2025.
A report from independent investigator J. Randall Secontine explores alleged charter violations and gives insight to some factors that stressed out city staff members.
Some East Lansing residents have been surprised to receive notices that they may owe the city income taxes.
Glencairn rental restriction overlay public hearing set, rejected projects discussed and minutes of Nov. 2 special meeting finally approved during 90-minute session.
The rental restriction overlay proposed in part of Glencairn neighborhood was recommended for approval by the Planning Commission at its Jan. 24 meeting.
City Council voted to approve projects that will have major impacts on two of East Lansing’s busiest roads at the Jan. 23 meeting.
City Council heard another statement condemning the election of Singh as mayor pro tem over Watson.
The last two city departments presented their priorities, while the strategic planning process was met with some resistance.
The Transportation Commission unanimously approved recommending the plan be implemented for the stretch of road from Burcham Drive to Grand River Avenue.
The video was uploaded to the city’s YouTube channel, but not added to the meeting calendar like other recordings. City manager tells ELi it was an “oversight.”
City strategic planning will continue at 9 a.m. Saturday at the Hannah Center.
Following statements by the NAACP’s James McCurtis and Councilmember Dana Watson, Council heard presentations from city department heads about 2024 priorities.
“It’s a great way to bridge the gap between and learn what the commissioners see as important to their peers,” assistant to the city manager said.
Despite emotional testimony from many personally impacted by the conflict, the resolution drafted by the Human Rights Commission was rejected 4-1.
Tuesday’s meeting includes 10 items on the business agenda, 3 public hearings and a mysterious closed session.
The Library Board of Trustees will begin public interviews early this month.
During public comment, speakers requested the city support a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The letter signed by nine civic and school leaders supports putting the commission establishment on the 2024 ballot.
The interim planning director and a Council member work to explain the overlay ordinances. But the debate is expected to continue.
The deer management plan and January cull were approved 4-1 at the Nov. 28 meeting.
City Council heard from 20 members of the community during the public comment portion of Tuesday’s meeting.
Kerry Ebersole Singh ran well ahead of other candidates in a City Council election that saw a strong turnout.
Erik Altmann, Mark Meadows and Kerry Ebersole Singh are sworn in, joining George Brookover and Dana Watson on City Council.
In unofficial results from Tuesday’s election, Dan Bollman narrowly missed out on the third slot. Noel Garcia finished fifth, Joshua Ramirez-Roberts was sixth, Rebecca Kasen seventh and Chris Wardell eighth.
New Principal Planner Landon Bartley is eager to get to work back in the community that shaped him.
The agenda for the Thursday meeting was added to the city calendar on Wednesday.
Councilmember George Brookover expressed discomfort with the actions taken by the outgoing interim city manager. Randy Talifarro, the new city manager and finance director respond.
Here’s a roundup of ELi’s election coverage leading up to the polls opening throughout the City of East Lansing on Nov. 7.
ELi analyzes and breaks down financial records from the Ingham County Clerk.
The city’s new top administrator talks about his life, his priorities and gives his perspective on the end of his job in Saginaw.
Commissioners heard a presentations on lyme disease interventions, the aquatic center and city park upgrades.
After 228 days on the job, Talifarro said he is glad to have had the opportunity to step into the crucial city role during a sometimes tumultuous time.
The communitywide debate has been ongoing since May. With the Tuesday decision, the surface parking lot will stay a parking lot.
The required analysis, presented during the Oct. 10 discussion-only City Council meeting, reviewed demographics, affordability and housing complaints.
Responses of “yes” or “no” to the ballot initiatives may give insight into candidates’ political views.
This is the third short-answer question posed to the eight East Lansing Council candidates.
ELi is providing a series of stories with candidate responses to questions generated by readers. This is the second of the series of four packages.
ELi is providing a series of three stories with candidate responses to questions generated by readers.
22 people spoke to Council about the affordable housing project during the Oct. 3 meeting, with majority speaking against the proposal. Council expects to make a decision at the Oct. 17 meeting.
ELi brings you what candidates had to say about the city’s workforce problem, redevelopment, climate change, public safety and lots more.
All the information you need to be prepared for the upcoming Nov. 7 election.
Voters are being asked to consider three amendments on the Nov. 7, 2023, ballot.
The proposal was defeated 3-2. Hagan Reality owners are not sure what their next steps will be for the properties but vow not to give up.
Divisions within East Lansing’s City Hall have led to complaints and resignations.
By Lucas Day Concluding a drawn out saga that stretches back to early August, the East Lansing City Council voted 4-1 Tuesday (Sept. 19) in favor of approving a contract for Robert Belleman to serve as the next city manager. Belleman comes to East Lansing following a recent controversy. He was removed from his previous…
City Council will vote on the contract at their Tuesday meeting.
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.
Hagan Realty says the project will be good for the city, while residents of the 600 block of Grove Street continue to disagree.
ELi is providing introductions to the eight East Lansing City Council candidates. In the eighth installment in our series, Dustin DuFort Petty provides a profile of Joshua Ramirez-Roberts. Why is Ramirez-Roberts running?
ELi is providing introductions to the eight East Lansing City Council candidates. In the seventh installment in our series, Lucas Day provides a profile of Mark Meadows. Why is Meadows running?
ELi is providing introductions to the eight East Lansing City Council candidates. In the sixth installment in our series, Dustin DuFort Petty provides a profile of Kerry Ebersole Singh. Why is Ebersole Singh running?
ELi is providing introductions to the eight East Lansing City Council candidates. In the fifth in our series, Dustin DuFort Petty provides a profile of Dan Bollman. Why is Bollman running?
ELi is providing introductions to the eight East Lansing City Council candidates. In the third installment in our series, Mya Gregory provides a profile of Rebecca Kasen. Why is Kasen running?
ELi is providing introductions to the eight East Lansing City Council candidates. In the third installment in our series, Mya Gregory provides a profile of Christopher Wardell. Why is Wardell running?
ELi is providing introductions to the eight East Lansing City Council candidates. In the second installment in our series, Mya Gregory provides a profile of Noel Garcia. Why is Garcia running?
ELi is providing introductions to the eight East Lansing City Council candidates. In the first installment in our series, Lucas Day provides a profile of Erik Altmann. Why is Altmann running?
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 variance was approved 4-3 after back and forth discussion at the board’s Aug. 2 meeting.
Responses will be used to generate questions for the public candidate forum set for Sept. 14 at the Hannah Community Center.
“I don’t mind dissent,” Councilmember Dana Watson said last night. “I do mind certain temperatures of it.”
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.
Gregg doesn’t have the power to formally call for revisiting the vote. Only Mayor Ron Bacon and Councilmembers Dana Watson and Noel Garcia can do that.
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.
Two candidates say they would have voted for Tim Dempsey, one shows disbelief, others are pragmatic and two haven’t yet responded to ELi.
There was wide support for internal candidate Tim Dempsey in written communications and public comments. “This is a farce. This is an absolute farce,” one member of the community said after the vote.
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.
All candidates responded to 21 questions from council members before going into interviews before city staff and then attending an evening reception at the Hannah Center.
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.
The five semi-finalists were chosen from a pool of 14 applicants; only six of the applicants live in Michigan.
The East Lansing Human Rights Commission continues to discuss the possibility of vending machines that dispense emergency contraceptives, although the path to making it happen remains murky.
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…
Five candidates accepted and two alternates approved to take part in a full day and evening of interviews scheduled for Aug. 7.
A decision on University Lutheran’s request for a variance for the size of a solar array was tabled after questions arose about other approved projects.
What came of that heavy agenda at EL’s City Council meeting Tuesday?
East Lansing’s City Council has decided to relieve developer DRW Convexity of its responsibilities where downtown affordable housing is concerned and to give PK Companies a try instead. As part of their Park District project, Chicago-based developers DRW Convexity agreed to construct an affordable apartment building at a now-vacant lot known as “Parcel C” (333…
“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.
With Ramirez, there are now 5 candidates running for 3 open seats.
It appeared as though voters would be deciding in November whether or not to expand the East Lansing City Council from five to seven members – briefly. Mayor Ron Bacon had started reading the final item on the business agenda at the Tuesday (July 11) City Council meeting when City Attorney Anthony Chubb interjected. “I…
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.
Council discussed new strategies for the future when making deals with large developers.
The resignations occur amid turmoil at the library and in the city’s workforce.
The list of candidates continues to grow, but no word yet if Bacon and Gregg are running for reelection.
Eleven library staff members spoke about their jobs and responsibilities, stressing “libraries work because we do.” The union staff is currently in contract negotiations.
Commission Chair Erick Williams calls the April 2022 police shooting at Meijer a “learning opportunity” and offers recommendations for the future.
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.
Two former mayors,Liz Schweitzer and Diane Goddeeris, voiced their opposition to the proposed changes, particularly with regard to shifting council elections to even-numbered years.
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.
After a closed session, the commission voted unanimously to ask Council to use its subpoena powers to investigate DTN in a civil rights complaint.
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.
June as Pride Month and Juneteenth as a holiday are now formally recognized in the City of East Lansing.
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?
Twin cases provide insight into the risks and costs of suits against the city from large, national groups.
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.
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.
Homeowners just to the south are objecting to the proposal, but the church to the north supports it.
The 2018 deal with DRW/Convexity and City Council is setting the stage for the current council to make a big decision.
A resolution was passed recognizing and honoring the lifesaving actions of first responders and those impacted by the mass shooting on the MSU campus.
The proposed FY24 budget for ELPRA is just under $5.5 million, which is an increase of $189,330 from FY23.
Taylor Knickerbocker said she tries to interact with the community as much as she can and typically ends up in a police car to do outreach each day.
Ron Lacasse would like to know how someone managed to get an entire Big Wheel down into the sewer system.
The proposed city budget for next year would increase spending on trees, continue waste and recycling programs residents have come to expect and look to renewable energy.
If City Council follows the committee’s recommendations, the pie will be split many ways between public services and infrastructure projects.
Funding from MSU and the state is up while personnel services are down in the projected fire department budget. Learn more from ELi.
Get the news of what happened at East Lansing’s Council meeting this week.
Could Ingham County get an ID program similar to Washtenaw County’s? And what’s happening with those two civil rights complaints?
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.
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.
The plan called for a substantial remaking of the city government, amassing power in the hands of DEI Director Elaine Hardy.
City Council approves hiring an independent attorney to investigate the allegations.
The anonymous complaint has been released, as has a statement from Council.
An executive recruiter from MML, who will lead the search, laid out the hiring timeline.
ELi connects the dots on a surprise pair of agenda items.
ELi’s brings you the story behind this important win for the city.
While CELL has just organized, the group has already produced a 57-page guidelines document.
Street sign theft amnesty, a small house with a big history and Falcon Pointe were all dealt with at Tuesday’s meeting.
Incident has led to a special investigation by the library board and complaint to the EL Human Rights Commission.
The city attorney said the investigation was stalled because he couldn’t reach a key person involved. ELi reached her by phone last night.
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?
Reached for comment, Norm Shinkle, co-chair of the Ingham County Republican Party, told ELi what’s happening in Michigan is “unbelievable.”
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.
March 15 meeting was less acrimonious than recent sessions with more time spent focusing on business as usual.
A Crown Castle representative interacted directly with members of the CELL citizen group.
Another Assistant Director’s resignation came to light today, after last night’s Council meeting involved a discussion about what is happening with hiring attempts.
The 2-2 vote to not sign the MEDC agreement means the project as proposed will not move forward.
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.
A group of East Lansing homeowners are trying to preserve neighborhood aesthetics.
The search will be national and is expected to take at least four months.
Mayor Ron Bacon addressed rumors while Talifarro described “an emotionally challenging and arduous time.”
Talifarro will be available to all this Wednesday evening at a meet-and-greet being hosted by the library.
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.
Forms are available for those who would like to plant trees in front of their houses.
This week’s East Lansing Library Board of Trustees meeting was dominated by discussion of the Jan. 11 incident.
City officials say they cannot block installation of the towers because of a state law.
Board of Review is no longer able to step outside Council’s guidelines.
Plans for a LGBTQ+ event and coffee and conversations sessions also discussed.
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 announces former city clerk Marie Wicks will return as interim clerk; council members also receive their committee assignments.
Some people remain very unhappy with the idea of paving over the center of the park for a pavilion, while others are excited by the designs. See the new renderings and find out what happened at the last Planning Commission meeting.
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.
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 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.
If the “test” area for a new form-based zoning code works out, it could be implemented in other parts of East Lansing, too.
East Lansing residents are adamant they deserve a voice in where cell towers are built.
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.
The mayor said he wants to “send out the clarifying call that we are that shining city on the hill.” But Councilmember Brookover said he thinks this will do little additional good, and could harm.
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.
Want to learn a lot about East Lansing city government? The deadline to apply to participate in the 2023 Emerging Leaders Program has now been extended to Jan. 13.
City of East Lansing staff say more than 50 new “small cell” towers may be coming around town.
ELi brings you the names of who will be considered. Soon, we’ll also be bringing you their applications.
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.
The vote came down 7-2-1 and puts a hard stop on the extensions in July 2023. ELi’s Lucas Day reports.
Following an acrimonious debate between City Manager George Lahanas and Councilmember Dana Watson, East Lansing’s deer cull has been put on hold and will be discussed at Council’s next scheduled meeting, Jan. 10, 2023.
It’s easy to wonder how many lives would be different had Ball lost his bid against an incumbent in 1992. He won by 69 votes, and the rest is local history.
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.
The 146-page report prepared by CNA was presented to City Council at the Dec. 6 meeting.
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.
Interim President Teresa Woodruff strives for positive relationship between the university and city.
The Ingham County Bar Association honors Amy Iseler with its Liberty Bell Award for her work with the 54B drug court.
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.
Another failed proposal for the Evergreen Properties, land the DDA purchased almost 15 years ago using public bonds. Those bonds will be refinanced again.
City Council may take up the issue at its Dec. 6 meeting after the resolution was unanimously approved by the Human Rights Commission.
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.
Election Day ran smoothly throughout the city, despite long lines of students registering at the last minute to vote.
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.
![New Merritt Road Marijuana Shop Gets Built, Hotel and Other Retail in Limbo [Updated]](https://eastlansinginfo.news/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/High-Society-Merritt-Road1-768x558.jpg)
Update: The Planning Commission has voted unanimously to recommend approval of the developers’ request to sell recreational marijuana alongside medical marijuana at the new High Society shop.
A lively scene downtown, especially at City Clerk sites, indicates high voter turnout in the 2022 Midterm Elections.
Revised plans may be available as soon as this Wednesday, Nov. 9, for the Planning Commission meeting. What are people asking for in terms of changes?
Members of the public attend Nov. 2 meeting to provide input to commissioners and city representatives.
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.
The city’s mayor is optimistic as he continues to prioritize supporting small business, fair budgeting and regional partnerships.
East Lansing environmental program updates include artificial intelligence being used to cut down on recycling contamination, urban forestry, grant opportunities and more.
The East Lansing native emphasizes downtown development oversight and building a healthy relationship with Michigan State University.
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.
Affordable and inclusive housing, and police reform remain at the top of Watson’s hopes for the city.
Haven’t voted yet? Let ELi help get you up to speed.
Valley Court farmers market pavilion and downtown lighting may be partially funded with HUD CDBG monies.
After an internal investigation, two officers are found in violation of wrongfully searching and detaining a 20-year-old Black man.
At Tuesday’s meeting, Council also went into closed session to evaluate the City Manager and approved a commercial rezoning on the north side.
The “Virtual Listening Session” revealed tensions around ELPD, the Independent Police Oversight Commission and issues of race and resources.
Readers asked ELi to get candidate views on what measures are needed to create a safer environment for students, teachers and staff at ELPS.
Five of the 10 candidates on the ballot for four ELPS Board seats respond to a key concern of parents and residents.
Plus: ELi brings you a video taken just after the Sept. 11 downtown shooting showing some fleeing the scene while police rush in.
ELi’s first question to candidates delves into their reasons for running for board and where they are on the political spectrum.
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.
Recommendations put forth by the city’s Independent Police Oversight Committee are approved 3-1.
![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.
The mayor hopes to “really aggravate Indianapolis,” and Council is seeking a legal opinion on conflicts of interest. What else happened this Tuesday night?
As climate change makes severe weather events more common, East Lansing’s sewer system has been stretched to capacity.
Chris Martin tells ELi he does not currently plan to try a write-in campaign.
The motion, which passed unanimously, now goes to city council for consideration.
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?
Numerous community members came to denounce Nessel’s decisions regarding the April shooting of a young Black man by ELPD officers at the Lake Lansing Meijer store.
Renewal of the East Lansing Public Library Millage will appear on the November 8 ballot.
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.
In this edition of Ask ELi, we bring you answers on tax assessments, the sewer system, ELPD social workers, and unpaid parking tickets.
The Independent Police Oversight Commission passed a motion to advise ELPD Chief Kim Johnson to release police video footage of the officer-involved shooting at the Lake Lansing Meijer. Heather Brothers reports on last night’s meeting.
![Two ELPD Officers Involved in Shooting at Lake Lansing Meijer on Monday Evening [UPDATED]](https://eastlansinginfo.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/2021-_-ELI-_-ELPD-06-768x384.jpg)
It’s unclear from a City press release if one or both officers fired shots at the individual, who was transported to a local hospital. The two officers involved are currently on paid administrative leave as the Michigan State Police investigate.
Andrew Graham is joined by Heather Brothers to discuss use of force reports and the Police Oversight Commission. Give a listen!
Ten years ago this month, the City approved its Climate Sustainability Plan. This Earth Day, Al Hargrave Jackson takes a look at what the plan has achieved and future plans for sustainability in the City.
A caveat in the original development deal seemingly left Council with two options that it saw as less than ideal. The bottom line remains that affordable housing development in Valley Court is now on ice. Andrew Graham reports.
The City’s specific legal strategy is under wraps due to attorney-client privilege, but ELi’s Andrew Graham explains the franchise fee, the lawsuit, and the recent ruling.
Prices for parking at meters and City-owned ramps and lots may increase this summer. City staff is also calling for Council to consider a hike in fines for parking meter violations. Clay Oppenhuizen and Emily Joan Elliott explain why.
Andrew is joined by Emily Joan Elliott to talk about the discussion at City Council about potentially putting a hold on issuing new SUPs and site plans for Greek houses. Give it a listen!
Andrew Graham sits down with Emily Joan Elliott to talk about the imminent return of the Albert EL Fresco. Give a listen!
Andrew is joined by ELi’s Founder, Alice Dreger, for a discussion about various projects going on downtown and around town, plus what can be done to boost a downtown. Check it out!
After a more than six-month-long process, the City of East Lansing finally has new City Attorneys. Some of the ELi team recaps the process in this episode of the pod and discusses the changes in how the City will be represented.
The Albert EL Fresco is set to reopen later this spring, but the City is still looking for someone to provide outdoor seating, shade, and lighting infrastructure for the space. Andrew Graham reports.
Council member Brookover’s arguments against approving a Special Use Permit to establish a fraternity at 532 Ann St. resulted in a 2-2 split vote, meaning the SUP was not approved, as many non-student residents expressed concern about the impact of student housing, especially, fraternities and sororities, on their communities.
![Ask ELi: A Fence on Campus, Basketball Hoops Unlocked, and Construction On Burcham Drive [UPDATED]](https://eastlansinginfo.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Schools-on-Burcham-768x429.png)
ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott brings a few pieces of news and a noteworthy PSA about construction on Burcham Drive.
The Library Board of Trustees discussed two upcoming Board vacancies and concerns about intellectual freedom in light of what the American Library Association has called a “dramatic uptick in book challenges.”
Find out how you can be more involved in the City of East Lansing by applying to a board or commission. Clay Oppenhuizen reports.
A series of Freedom of Information Act requests from ELi show how some changes in the City’s workforce mean women are more represented as the highest earners. Emily Joan Elliott reports.
In this episode of The Insider, Andrew and Emily go in-depth on the recent discussions at City Council and Planning Commission regarding the Northern Tier. It’s a discussion ranging from land use to town-gown relations, so give it a listen!
During a presentation, the City Manager proposed using ARPA funds for three new projects. Council may vote next week to allocate more than $4 million of its ARPA funds. What will the money be spent on?
The contract approval comes after a months-long search for new legal representation for the City of East Lansing. Emily Joan Elliott reports.
The Commission decided to delve into complaints and use of force reports beginning in April. Heather Brothers reports for ELi.
As MSU prepares for requiring sophomores to live on campus this upcoming academic year, University officials consider how they might exercise greater control over the behavior of registered student organizations and associated individual students. What might this process, including collaboration with City authorities, look like?
Andrew is joined by Dan Bollman to discuss the state of housing in East Lansing and delve into some of the various ways the City could alter zoning or other laws to, potentially, make housing more affordable and accessible in East Lansing. Listen in!
The City announced yesterday that beginning on Mar. 14, masks would be optional inside City-owned buildings with some exceptions, including public meetings.
In the latest discussions about what to do with the Northern Tier regarding planning and housing, East Lansing’s Planning Commission discussed forming a specific committee to study the area and consider what could be done. What might the next steps entail?
The election applies to the small number of East Lansing residents who live within the boundaries of the Lansing School District. Emily Joan Elliott reports on that and the bond proposal they’ll be voting on.
Council re-upped a policy that streamlines the process for restaurants to apply for expanded outdoor seating, but the big news about the City’s settlement in a FOIA lawsuit was buried in the consent agenda. Andrew Graham reports.
One of the proposed locations for a development of affordable housing geared toward creatives is Valley Court Park. Emily Joan Elliott digs in to what else is in the feasibility report and what we can learn.
Returns are due on or before May 2, 2022. If you worked in the City of East Lansing in 2021, you’ll likely be required to file. Find out how and more from reporter Clay Oppenhuizen.
The evaluation is supposed to occur prior to May 31, 2022, according to the contract. Al Hargrave reports on the first steps in City Manager George Lahanas’ coming evaluation.
The DDA approved a budget amendment to support the Albert EL Fresco, but some DDA members had questions about the large figure. Andrew Graham reports on that and the bat infestation at a DDA-owned property.
Andrew is joined by Emily Joan Elliott to talk about the current stages of the pandemic, how different things are now from early 2020, and where things might be headed next. Listen in!
At its first meeting of 2022, the Commission dealt with three frats, an application for a Special Use Permit for a dispensary to sell recreational marijuana, and discussed plans for a City lot on the Northern Tier and the near-term housing action plan.
Council approved a contract for the Giamarco, Mullins and Horton law firm to serve as municipal legal counsel but deferred approving a contract for the prosecutorial position due to confusion over the proposed hourly rates.
As it was the first meeting of 2022 for the Commission, they elected a new chair and vice chair. Al Hargrave reports.
The City currently has 64 fewer employees than it did on Dec. 31, 2019 — and the departures have been most prevalent among Black employees. What else did ELi find out about changes in the City’s workforce?
The City of East Lansing resumed public meetings this week after pausing meetings outside of City Council during the omicron surge. On this episode of the Insider, the ELi team digs into what some of the boards and commissions have been up to as the City gets back to action.
Council discussed plans for marketing and development of a City-owned property in the northern tier. What might we expect to see there?
![What Does the Attorney General’s Opinion On the Open Meetings Act Mean for East Lansing’s Public Bodies? [UPDATED]](https://eastlansinginfo.news/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Lahanas-and-Leyko-OMA-opinion-768x431.png)
The ELPS School Board weighed the benefits and setbacks of increasing options for public comment at its Feb. 14 meeting.
The commission unanimously approved a motion that directs City Staff and the police to ensure information that the Oversight Commission will be working with is available to the public. Heather Brothers reports.
Why is there so much variation in how daycares are implementing Covid-19 protocols and handling exposures? Clay Oppenhuizen reports for ELi.
Robert L. Green and Glencairn Elementary schools are without power and heat, and parents have been asked to call and release their children from school early. Andrew Graham reports on the outage.
![Free Menstrual Products Coming to Public Restrooms? [UPDATED]](https://eastlansinginfo.news/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/city_hall_in_snow_by_gary_comstock.png)
City Council passed an ordinance requiring City-owned restrooms provide free menstrual products.
Kathleen “Kathy” Corkin Boyle, an attorney and clear-eyed public servant, died on Feb. 3 and will be remembered at a service on Saturday at All Saints Episcopal Church.
Council delegated the negotiating duties to City Manager George Lahanas, who will come back to Council for final approval on the respective contracts after negotiations. Andrew Graham reports.
After the record snowfall last week, some East Lansing residents are still waiting for their streets to be plowed. Take ELi’s survey on the progress of the snow removal and learn more!
MSU has seriously changed the game for housing sophomores at fraternities and sororities in East Lansing. ELi’s Andrew Graham connects the dots to bring this special report.
Andrew is joined by Dr. Warwick, from MSU’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Dr. Warwick has worked with the City on the deer culls — specifically working with the community and learning their tolerances for deer. Listen about that and more!
How did ELi find out both were intending to run? What else do we know about the 54B District Court elections? Emily Joan Elliott reports.
ELPS will remain closed on Thursday. ELPL will not open until 12 p.m. tomorrow.
Despite City Council approving “retention bonuses” for employees, some unions are pushing for employees who endured more Covid risks to get bonuses for that work. Al Hargrave reports.
The City of East Lansing’s deer cull has come to an end, resulting in the removal of 79 deer over the course of four evenings in January, according to a press release from the City.
“I’d say start talking about rates. Rates is the third rail here,” Mayor Ron Bacon said to City Manager George Lahanas about the next steps in the process of hiring a new City Attorney.
Andrew and Al Hargrave talk through what has happened in the search for a new City Attorney, to date, and get into what the Council might be looking for in their new counsel. Take a listen!
The official dates for EL Fresco have not be set, but Council voted to approve the closure of two lanes on Albert Street from Apr. 27 to Sept. 11, despite Council member Brookover voicing concerns about the project benefiting some local businesses and not others, among other things.
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?
What safety precautions are being taken for using rifles? What metrics are being used to determine if the cull was successful? We bring you answers to those questions and more.
When one thinks local business, 7-Eleven doesn’t readily come to mind. This week, ELi’s Andrew Graham hopes to change that thinking with an interview with Ali Haider, who has owned and operated the downtown 7-Eleven for more than five years. Listen in!
UPDATED: ELPD identified the individual who died on West Road early Tuesday morning. The incident is still under investigation.
Food trucks and a continued suspension of meetings for the City of East Lansing’s boards and commissions: we bring you a quick rundown of some things we’re keeping an eye on.
Some East Lansing residents are interested in keeping livestock, but the City may continue to limit livestock to feathered-friends only.
At Tuesday’s Council meeting, a representative from McAlvey, Merchant & Associates updated Council on the firm’s successes advocating on behalf of the City at the State Capitol, but at least two Council members called for clearer communication between the lobbyists and Council.
After conducting the final interview for the open City Attorney position, City Council decided to postpone a discussion on selecting top candidates until its Jan. 25 meeting. The decision was made in part due to Mayor Pro Tem Jessy Gregg’s absence after she contracted Covid-19 last week.
No other members of City Council appear to have contracted Covid-19 after Jessy Gregg attended Thursday’s meeting – one day after being exposed to Covid but testing negative on an at-home test. The four other members of Council will discuss the City Attorney candidates among other things this evening.
As the debate heated up, Jessy Gregg called George Brookover and Lisa Babcock “a bummer,” suggesting they don’t believe in East Lansing’s economic recovery. Andrew Graham reports for ELi.
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?
Full-time employees working for the City of East Lansing on Feb. 6, 2022, will receive a $2,000 bonus, and part-time workers will receive a $1,000 bonus, with a total of about $675,000 in tax dollars to be used. The intent is to reward and retain current employees.
East Lansing’s City Council approved the use of $500,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds to reimburse property owners for the cost of installing check valves. More information on how to obtain the reimbursement has now been issued by the City.
Ingham County has hit its highest caseload for one week, but rates of vaccination remain static. The Health Department will pivot at some point to approach Covid-19 more like the flu. But right now, 28 people here are on ventilators because of the coronavirus.
What happens to the deer that are culled? Have any deer had wasting disease? We answer these questions and more in this Ask ELi Grab Bag!
What’s been the result of marijuana retail sale regulation in the City of East Lansing? ELi’s Andrew Graham reviews the scene and tells you what’s coming.
On this episode, Andrew and Chuck are joined by Emily Joan Elliott to delve into the current state of the pandemic. Give a listen!
The Supreme Court will hear arguments regarding the federal Covid-19 vaccine mandate today. What does this mean for workers employed by the City of East Lansing and East Lansing Public Schools?
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.
Council will interview the candidates for City Attorney on Jan. 13, but the entire process may run through the end of the month. The City might also hire 2 attorneys: one to act as prosecutor for the District 54B Court and one to act as legal counsel for the City.
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.
Andrew and Chuck are joined by Emily Joan Elliott and Alice Dreger to talk about the stories that the ELi reporting team expects to follow in 2022. Give it a listen!
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.
We asked our reporters which stories that they wrote meant the most to them in 2021. They answered, passing along a varied collection of stories for this year in review.
Some East Lansing residents want to see deer removed to stop property destruction and injury risk, while others detest the thought of having their government kill these animals. What do we know, politically and logistically, about this year’s planned cull?
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.
Two East Lansing churches are looking at providing faith-based reparations to the Black community in the Greater Lansing area. The idea has recently come for discussion to East Lansing’s Human Rights Commission.
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.
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?
What can residents do to prevent their mail from being stolen? And what can residents affected by the Comcast outage do to get a refund for loss of service? We bring the answers in this Ask ELi Grab Bag.
UPDATE: At last night’s meeting, Council supported a motion by Council member George Brookover asking the City Manager to look into using ARPA funds for extra pay for “all unelected part time and full time City employees.”
Yet again, the publicly-owned Evergreen Properties and their possible redevelopment formed the main topic of discussion at the latest meeting of East Lansing’s Downtown Development Authority. What happened? Only ELi brings this news.
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!
MSU announced today that it will require students, faculty, and staff to get a Covid booster for the upcoming semester. On Wednesday, the Parks and Rec Commission drafted a letter to the City Manager and Council, asking for the City, which has no plans for a vaccine mandate of its own, to change course on the issue.
East Lansing’s Independent Police Oversight Commission has still not examined the police department’s use-of-force reports from October or November despite meeting twice already. But the group did press ELPD officers on issues of racial bias, transparency, and cooperation at the Commission’s second meeting on Monday.
City Council member George Brookover, a finalist for the City Attorney position in the last go-around, shared his opinions of how to manage the selection differently this time as the City Council looks to replace Foster Swift.
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?
East Lansing’s staff has decided to require special approval for new or newly-occupied frat and sorority houses, but “will not be applying the requirement retroactively.”
With a number of stories worth catching up on, Andrew and Chuck are joined by Al Hargrave to discuss some of the recent news. Give it a listen!
The Transportation Commission provided more details on the upcoming construction to Burcham Drive. When will it start? What will it entail?
East Lansing’s Public Works Department is going into high gear on the Chesterfield Hills sewer odor problem, and a long-time contractor for the City will review the August 12 Northlawn Avenue flooding disaster. Andrew Graham reports from Council’s meeting.
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.
City Manager George Lahanas provided Council with a line-item American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Draft Plan on Nov. 16. The plan prioritizes parking systems, the fire station, and the Hannah Community Center as some of the first to receive funds, but residents can complete a survey by Dec. 10 to provide feedback on how the City should spend its ARPA funds.
Andrew and Chuck are joined by ELi’s Executive Director and Publisher Alice Dreger to delve into the overall issues of transparency in the City of East Lansing. Listen in!
It’s been over three months since East Lansing’s City Council decided to look for a new City Attorney, and five law firms have submitted proposals to take on the role. What’s going on with all this?
City Council approved a new letter agreement with the would-be developers of 2040 Merritt Rd., the former DPW headquarters property that the City quietly sold via eBay in 2019. What will be built there now?
ELi faces a persistent lack of transparency and thus an unnecessary uphill climb in our efforts to report on what your local government is doing — including with your money. ELi City Desk reporter Andrew Graham brings the story.
After multiple presentations to the public from the City about water infrastructure, Chuck Grigsby and Andrew Graham talk about the ongoing sanitary and storm sewer debate in the City of East Lansing. Give a listen!
East Lansing, including Michigan State University, occupies the Lands of the Anishinaabeg, and Indigenous faculty at MSU are drawing attention to that with a Land Acknowledgement statement. The City has sometimes adapted and used the statement, too. What is the history of this Land Acknowledgment? What might it mean moving forward?
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.
The DDA voted in favor of funding more cameras to be used by ELPD, but not before a lively discussion about privacy and how to welcome people downtown.
“For the amount of money we pay in taxes each year, in comparison to similar houses in other cities, this situation is unacceptable,” wrote one couple to the City of East Lansing, echoing the feelings of their Chesterfield Hills neighbors.
Grigsby recently ran for City Council and helped form the Police Oversight Commission. He joins the Insider as a regular voice this week, along with Andrew Graham. Listen in!
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.
The new City Council tackled a very hot problem at Tuesday night’s meeting: what to do about the City’s sewer problems. ELi’s Andrew Graham reports.
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.
Looking for an in-depth course about East Lansing government? Now’s your chance to enroll in the City’s Emerging Leaders Program.
ELi reporters Andrew Graham, Heather Brothers, and Jack Timothy Harrison dive in to some recent ELi reporting on couch burnings and policing. Give it a listen!
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.”
Jessy Gregg, who had been serving as Mayor since Aaron Stephens’ resignation, has again been elected Mayor Pro Tem. Dana Watson and George Bookover were also sworn in.
Should ELPD administrators attend the Independent Police Oversight Commission meetings? What information should be included in use of force reports? Here’s what the commissioners had to say at their first meeting.
Residents are still expressing concern over the aftermath of severe flooding in August and are skeptical that massive flooding will not happen again, based on conversations at a flooding town hall. The City will hold a webinar on Nov. 18 to address some concerns.
The City of East Lansing has already received half of its $12.2 million in Covid relief funds through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, but how will it spend that money? Fill out our survey to provide your input.
East Lansing’s ordinance compelling some real estate developers to contribute art has not been without controversy. Seven years in, what effects has it had?
While ELPD and MSU officials promise repercussions for burning couches and vandalism, MSU students tell ELi’s Jack Timothy Harrison how they view Saturday’s postgame events. The gap is clear.
With all 17 precincts in the City of East Lansing fully reporting, Dana Watson, George Brookover and Ron Bacon have been elected to City Council, according to unofficial Ingham County results.
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?
Just ahead of the Nov. 2 general election, ELi’s Andrew Graham and Alice Dreger take to the pod and look back at the 2021 City Council race to date. Give it a listen!
Local officials fear that big parties related to football and Halloween will add additional stress to an already strained hospital system. Alice Dreger reports.
ELHS temporarily sheltered in place this morning due to a medical emergency. The shelter in place order has ended.
The City of East Lansing is planning to apply for a pair of 2022 Natural Resources Trust Fund grants aimed at funding projects to extend and improve existing portions of the Northern Tier Trail. What exactly will the projects entail?
ELi looked through 118 pages of financial reports from candidates for the East Lansing City Council so you don’t have to. What do they reveal?
In the weeks and months following torrential rains that flooded portions of East Lansing and numerous basements, ELi has had several readers inquire about the ongoing Montgomery Drain Project and its potential future impact in mitigating local flooding. What do we know?
The controversy surrounding MSU’s request for faculty and staff to volunteer their personal time to work in dining halls is only the tip of the iceberg locally in terms of tensions between employees and management. What else is happening around town?
Emily Joan Elliott and Heather Brothers discuss City Council’s debate over a new labor contract for command officers in the East Lansing Police Department. The two then provide a weekly news round up.
Find out about candidates’ positions, campaign finance analysis, links to videos of the candidates, and so much more in this nonpartisan guide from ELi!
Council approved the Settlement Agreement between the City and ELPD’s command officers in a 4-1 vote. Why did a Council member ask for discussion on the contract and ultimately vote against it?
Listen to Andrew Graham speak on WKAR about the upcoming East Lansing City Council elections on the air today at 4:44 p.m. or online!
When will the access point to the Northern Tier Trail at Colorado Drive be complete? How does East Lansing handle dog attacks? How can you attend Council member Babock’s flooding town hall tonight?
The City of East Lansing now prohibits hair-based discrimination, and the next City Council will see a slight increase in their pay. Lisa Babcock also reminded the community about her flooding town hall on Thursday. Find out about all this, the City’s litigation update, and more!
Irene Cahill, who serves the East Lansing Community as a board member on the Bailey Community Association and commissioner on the Housing Commission, is used to public service and being busy. She hopes to educate her community on what the County Commission can do to help them.
The City received the first payment of funds in May but has time before funds must be allocated and used. City Manager George Lahanas provided some ideas on how to use the money during a presentation to Council last week. What did he recommend? What did Council think of the draft plan?
With the City Council election just a few weeks away, ELi brings you the results of a poll conducted by Practical Political Consulting for East Lansing Info.
Community & Economic Development Administrator Adam Cummins spoke to Council about the City’s Daytime. Nighttime. Anytime. Place Project. What did he say worked? What could be improved?
The City Manager recommended some Covid relief money be used to help some owners pay for backflow prevention measures. City Council also heard a presentation about the heavy rains on Aug. 12 and subsequent flooding. What did they find out?
Differences showed up around the City’s rental overlay districts, legislation aimed at limiting when landlords can sign leases, managing the Albert EL Fresco social space, battling racism, and more.
When an East Lansing Info reader saw chatter on social media regarding a trash truck causing damage to a neighbor’s trash cart, she wondered how often this happened. Here’s what we found out.
The Human Rights Commission had previously reviewed policing and complaints about policing in East Lansing, but now the new Police Oversight Commission will take over that task. How is the HRC reimagining its place in the community with less on its plate?
On this episode, Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott speaks to City Desk Reporter Andrew Graham about his recent reporting on flooding, including his investigative reporting and what comes next.
After reviewing 39 applications and conducting 37 interviews, representatives for the City of East Lansing selected 11 commissioners, and Council gave its approval. Who are the new commissioners?
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!
Council member Ron Bacon said he wants an analysis from “someone who isn’t so closely tied to the project.” ELi’s Andrew Graham reports on the tense exchange at last night’s City Council meeting.
Carson told ELi she’s looking forward to being Chief of the “outstanding group of paramedics and firefighters who provide excellent emergency medical services and fire protection to the community.”
The Transportation Commissions of East Lansing and Meridian Township met together to discuss the proposed reconstruction of the intersection of Lake Lansing Road and Towar Avenue. What might the new intersection look like? How much will it cost? What concerns were voiced?
With Election Day drawing near, ELi is asking candidates for East Lansing City Council to answer readers’ questions. Here is one of those answers!
On the eastern edge of East Lansing, five homeowners have spent weeks trying to figure out why the Aug. 12 rains flooded their basements with sewage. Weeks later, like most residents, they still haven’t gotten satisfying answers. Andrew Graham reports.
The Downtown Development Authority purchased the properties in 2009, hoping to sell them for downtown development projects, but over a decade later, the DDA still owns the properties. Alice Dreger shares the long history with Emily Joan Elliott.
With Election Day drawing near, ELi is asking candidates for East Lansing City Council to answer readers’ questions. Here is one of those answers!
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!
With the election a little more than a month away, ELi is bringing you information designed to help you see the differences between candidates.
Several members of the special commission were concerned that, if the salaries of Council members are not increased, only people with relatively high economic privilege can afford to serve. ELi’s Amalia Medina reports.
On Friday, Sept. 24, the City of East Lansing and East Lansing Public Schools honored Dr. Robert L. Green, a nationally-recognized civil rights leader and one of the first Black homeowners in East Lansing.
Supporters at the library workers’ rally included fellow librarians from MSU, LCC, and CADL, plus several East Lansing citizens, including one candidate for City Council.
“This is going to proceed and come to a conclusion,” the presiding judge told the court yesterday. ELi’s Andrew Graham reports on the latest in the Department of Justice’s case against a local real estate developer.
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.
Under the current City Council and City Attorney, it’s gotten even harder for citizens to see the City Attorneys’ opinions. ELi’s Andrew Graham explains the struggle for transparency.
Planning staff for the City of East Lansing is looking for input on a “Near Term Housing Action Plan” as well as a longer-term vision. How can you listen and weigh in?
Only nine months into her term, Graham cited only “personal reasons” for resigning. Who can apply to be appointed?
Elected Sheriff Scott Wriggelsworth declined to tell ELi earlier this week who was with him and who against him on a controversial firearms issue. Now we know. ELi’s Heather Brothers reports.
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!
Ingham County Sheriff Scott Wriggelsworth has been canvassing municipalities in an attempt to get local leaders to sign onto his statement opposing County Prosecutor Carol Siemon’s reforms. Heather Brothers reports on his failure to convince East Lansing City Council to sign.
A new apartment building and other big changes coming soon to the Valley Court Park area? Learn the latest from ELi’s Alice Dreger.
ELPD was selected to participate in Active Bystandership for Law Enforcement (ABLE) training, after Police Chief Kim Johnson submitted a request for ELPD’s inclusion in the program. When will the training take place? What will it entail?
“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.
Judge Molly Hennessey Greenwalt expressed her excitement about serving her community, particularly in her capacity overseeing District 54B’s sobriety and drug courts.
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.
ELi brings you the news of what happened Tuesday, from talk of food truck regulation, to a $50K sale of public land to a neighbor, to a decision to forgive one hotel developer and approve another’s site plan for an extended-stay project.
Why does the City of East Lansing have to take on the cost of this year’s Council election, and why might your vote carry more weight than in other elections? ELi’s Andrew Graham explains.
ELi’s Andrew Graham investigates what happened on Aug. 12 along Northlawn Avenue, and brings information about what you can do to help protect your home and belongings.
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?
The placemaking event brought droves of students to downtown East Lansing and included a mobile vaccine clinic from the Ingham County Health Department. Andrew Graham brings more.
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.”
Over a half-million dollars in local taxes will be directed towards hiring economic development specialists to focus on East Lansing, if all goes as planned. Andrew Graham reports from the latest meeting of the East Lansing DDA.
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?
The applications are in, and applicants are varied in background, area of expertise, and reasons for applying. What do we know about the applicant pool?
At a media briefing on Tuesday, Vail praised ELPS and MSU for Covid mitigation efforts and provided a general update on Covid in Ingham County, including increased hospitalizations.
The power supply to the lights at the pickleball court was cut. Why? And why won’t there be repairs anytime soon?
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!
On Tuesday, Aug. 17, several readers wrote to ELi to ask why three mature honey locust trees in front of ELPL were about to be cut down. What were the readers’ concerns? Why did ELPL move forward with the removal?
Negotiations on a new contract hit a snag, according to Mayor Jessy Gregg. The search for the next City Attorney(s) will add even more shaking-up to East Lansing’s already-well-shaken City Hall. Andrew Graham reports.
Another shuffle happened tonight at East Lansing’s City Council, with Council-appointee Dana Watson becoming the first Black Mayor Pro Tem of East Lansing, and Shanna Draheim returning to a seat she left voluntarily in 2019. ELi’s Andrew Graham reports.
The Albert EL Fresco was dismantled on Sunday, and some readers wrote in to express their sadness to see it go. Why has it been paused? When might we see it again?
A City ordinance that would have significantly altered the annual housing rental timeline here has been “deemed rescinded.” Andrew Graham reports on why and what it means.
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.
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?
In court on Thursday, the City of East Lansing’s attorney argued that the BWL franchise fee is not a tax and customers could opt out of using BWL’s service. Judge Wanda Stokes had questions about that.
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 happened at East Lansing’s City Council on Tuesday night? ELi’s Andrew Graham catches you up.
Two student-rental houses faced similar citations — for noise, litter, and public health violations — but the outcomes turned out differently. Why? Andrew Graham reports from East Lansing’s Housing Commission.
At the Council of Neighborhood Presidents’ meetings, your neighborhood could have the ear of locally powerful people. But are you represented there?
As Jessy Gregg prepares to become East Lansing’s Mayor on August 11, she sits down with ELi’s Andrew Graham to talk local politics and the upcoming City Council election. Give a listen!
What issues are guiding who you will vote for in the November 2021 East Lansing City Council race? We would love to hear from you as we develop questions to be used in our election reporting and in public candidate forums.
At the July 28 meeting, East Lansing’s Planning Commission discussed concerns regarding glassware usage at the Rock Bar, what to do with the Housing Study, and a proposal for another four-story hotel on the northwest side. Jack Timothy Harrison reports.
In today’s Ask ELi to Investigate, ELi Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott digs into questions we’ve received about the East Lansing Public Library since her report on Monday regarding the library labor dispute.
The East Lansing Transportation Commission met in person on Monday — marking the start of the return to regular in-person City meetings this month. How did they decide to handle abandoned bikes? What other transportation issues did they tackle?
Following a shooting in the early hours of Saturday morning in downtown East Lansing near Pinball Pete’s, ELi followed up with ELPD to ask about that incident and another shooting that occurred in May.
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!
Employees in non-supervisory roles at the East Lansing Public Library (ELPL) rejected a contract offered by the City because it did not include stipulations that the workers are fighting for. What are the workers hoping to receive? What happens next?
Several Ingham County police chiefs objected to Ingham County Prosecutor Carol Siemon’s changes to traffic stop protocol. ELPD has not made clear how the changes will affect East Lansing.
ELi is providing introductions to East Lansing City Council candidates. In the latest installment in our series, Jack Timothy Harrison provides a profile of Mikey Manuel. Why is Manuel running for Council?
ELi is providing introductions to East Lansing City Council candidates. In the latest installment in our series, Jack Timothy Harrison provides a profile of George Brookover. Why is Brookover running?
The lawsuit that Country Mill filed against the City of East Lansing for allegedly targeting the owner’s religious beliefs is now being tried in federal court. We explain how we will be covering it and recap the story as it has evolved thus far.
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?
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.
Hennessey Greenwalt, an East Lansing resident who serves as a commissioner with the Michigan Supreme Court, will fill the vacancy left by the retirement of Judge Andrea Larkin.
The DDA now has a new slate of officers: Chair Mike Krueger, Vice Chair Luke Hackney, and Treasurer Kristin Clark. Andrew Graham reports on that and more.
The Southeast Marble Community Association (SEMCA) is inviting registered City Council candidates to host “meet-and-greet” community events at Hidden River Park. Why is the group holding the events? What can attendees expect?
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.
“Tree planting in East Lansing is not keeping up with the tree cutting,” wrote one ELi reader. Is that true? Brooklyn Peppo reports for ELi.
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.
The owners of Harper’s are looking to expand their outdoor features to include an outdoor bar, more tables and TVs, and possibly food trucks, all in an area off Grove St. that is now a parking lot.
The application is available online now through Aug. 1. Council intends for the Commission to represent the diversity of the community and plans to appoint 2 non-residents and 2 social workers or psychologists to the 11-person Commission.
The Honorable Wanda M. Stokes sided with the City Attorney’s argument that the request was too broad but encouraged ELi to file a new request with more specific language. What else did Stokes have to say about the case?
Council unanimously voted in favor of establishing an independent police oversight commission but engaged in a heated debate over other policing issues before approving a “fair and impartial policing” contract. What were the points of contention?
The discussion revealed points of satisfaction and dissatisfaction and involved talk of splitting the City Attorney contract into two parts. Why might Council go that route at some point?
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.
Looking for outdoor concerts and movies? Want to know what else is going on at the newly renovated Patriarche Park? Sarah Spohn describes all that and more.
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.
Alice Dreger and Emily Joan Elliott interview Mark Meadows who had served as Mayor and later as a Council member before resigning in July 2020. Meadows shares who he is endorsing in the upcoming Council elections, why he resigned, and his role in the community now.
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.
ELi is providing introductions to East Lansing City Council candidates. In the latest installment in our series, Jack Timothy Harrison provides a profile of Daniel Bollman. Why is Bollman running?
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?
After an ELi reader pointed out that ELPD was ticketing cars on Juneteenth when holiday parking rules should have been in effect, Mayor Aaron Stephens explained at last week’s Council meeting how those affected can appeal. How might the City honor Juneteenth in future years?
“As crappy as it sounds, forgiveness and compliance” is the way to go in cases of zoning violations like this one, said Mayor Aaron Stephens. What did other Council members have to say? Jack Harrison reports for ELi.
ELi’s Publisher and Executive Director Alice Dreger and Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott discuss complaints made to East Lansing’s City Council about noise created by cars and motorcycles. Elliott also interviews ELPD’s Neighborhood Resource Specialist Tonya Williams.
In a case of “good fences make good neighbors,” a developer is asking for understanding from the City of East Lansing on a disputed fence. Meanwhile, another hotel on the City’s northwest side? Maybe.
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?
Seven million to the pensions. Water shut-offs starting soon. City lawsuit information might be disclosed to the public again. What else did we see at City Council this week?
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.
The Commission on the Environment will meet this evening to discuss revisions to the City’s Green Building Policy and concerns expressed by some DDA members, particularly regarding tax incentives, cost, and economic impact. Brooklyn Peppo reports for ELi.
ELi is providing introductions to East Lansing City Council candidates. In the latest installment in our series, Jack Timothy Harrison provides a profile of Ron Bacon. Why is Bacon running?
East Lansing’s City Council is moving quickly to adopt a plan for citizen oversight of ELPD that will largely reflect what the Study Committee has recommended. What is expected? ELi’s Heather Brothers reports.
ELi is providing introductions to East Lansing City Council candidates. In the latest installment in our series, Jack Timothy Harrison provides a profile of Adam DeLay. Why is DeLay running?
ELi is providing introductions to East Lansing City Council candidates. In the latest installment in our series, Jack Timothy Harrison provides a profile of Dana Watson. Why is Watson running?
Since December 2020, ELPD has had a Community Engagement Team that consists of three neighborhood resource specialists and two social workers. Ann Kammerer speaks to Tonya Williams, the lead Neighborhood Resource Specialist for ELPD, to find out more about the work the specialists are doing in East Lansing.
ELi is providing introductions to East Lansing City Council candidates. In the first of our series, Jack Timothy Harrison provides a profile of Chuck Grigsby. Why is Grigsby running?
In this week’s Ask ELi grab bag, we answer four sets of reader questions! Did we pick yours?
Talifarro served as ELFD Fire Chief since 2001 and McCaffrey as Parks and Rec Director since 1999. ELi provides a look back at the tenure of the two directors.
Representatives from the committee, including the chair and vice chair, presented the nearly 250-page document that includes a report and recommendations for an ordinance to establish a permanent oversight commission. The presentation also included information on the overrepresentation of Black people in interactions with the police, issues of trust, and more.
A lot happened at this week’s four-hour City Council meeting. ELi’s Jack Timothy Harrison brings you up to speed with a 5-minute read!
In an unusual and somewhat tense split vote, Aaron Stephens, Jessy Gregg, and Dana Watson voted in favor, while Lisa Babcock and Ron Bacon voted against. Why? ELi’s Andrew Graham reports.
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?
East Lansing’s Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Commission will present its findings and recommendations to City Council today. Heather Brothers reports on the Study Committee’s final discussions, which included concerns over transparency and cooperation between a future oversight commission and the City, including ELPD.
What’s MSUFCU’s latest branch revision plan, and why does it require a Special Use Permit from the City of East Lansing? ELi’s Jack Timothy Harrison reports.
Expungement allows those convicted of crimes to remove the offense from their records. Free financial help seminars are also being made available to those who have criminal records. Learn more from ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott.
City Council expressed interest in the ELPD budget, but then passed what had been presented. What can we discern in that budget about ELPD policing for East Lansing? Nick Sly reports for ELi.
A press release from the City suggests Council will definitely establish an Independent Police Oversight Commission. But what might that look like? ELi’s Heather Brothers reports.
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.
ELPD Deputy Chief Steve Gonzalez provided ELi with a brief update on how the investigation is going after readers asked ELi for the latest information.
Who will replace Tim McCaffrey as Director of Parks & Rec? What else is going on in Parks & Rec? Emily Joan Elliott reports.
A recent study of East Lansing residents’ attitudes on policing said it included 51 African American and/or Black respondents, but Dr. Cedrick Heraux discovered discrepancies after looking at the raw data. What did he find in his deep dive into the numbers?
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.
After prosecutors dropped all the charges, Babcock questioned the “truthfulness” of one police officer’s report, the press release, and whether racial, ethnic, religious, or other biases played a role in this case. ELPD investigation found her complaint to be “sustained.” ELi’s Andrew Graham reports.
In meetings with the Housing and Planning Commissions, questions were raised about housing for seniors and about how a more racially diverse population could be attracted to live in East Lansing. What now?
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.
At this week’s public hearing, unlike the last, representatives of social service agencies came forward to ask Council to channel federal grant dollars to their work. Jack Timothy Harrison reports for 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 request to recognize the event and formal Remembrance Day was brought to Stephens by the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA), an Armenian advocacy group. East Lansing’s mayor tells ELi youth reporter Amalia Medina why he brought it forward from there.
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.
The City Council is poised to make decisions about whether to use federal grant dollars to fund local social service agencies. So, why didn’t any agencies show up to the first public hearing?
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.
East Lansing’s proposed Ordinance 1500 brought a lot more public comment than most draft laws do. ELi’s Andrew Graham explains what makes the issue heated and what the various parties think.
Ali Haider, the owner of East Lansing’s downtown 7-Eleven store, explains what his business has gone through with all of the street closures. Plus, two residents of Newman Lofts weigh in.
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.
The amount now owed to the water system is about ten times what would be expected in a normal year on July 1. East Lansing’s Finance Director and City Manager told Council that staff are trying to figure out how to help those in financial distress. ELi’s Andrew Graham reports.
Human interaction and community are key components of recovery from opioid addiction, but social distancing has complicated that. What’s happening with East Lansing’s specialty drug court? Claire Chapin reports for ELi.
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?
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!
What have we learned so far about the study that many have hoped will tell us if there’s a student-housing bubble forming here? Andrew Graham reports from City Council.
Anyone over age 16 in Michigan can now make an appointment directly with the Ingham County Health Department for a vaccine. Sparrow has walk-in hours for vaccines, and we provide you with information on other local vaccine providers.
Council members were mainly opposed to ELPD honoring Officer Andrew Stephenson, the central figure in two alleged incidents of excessive use of force. Andrew Graham reports.
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.
“The posture that is being taken tonight from the City Manager, to me, seems indicative of what’s to come for an oversight commission in how difficult things might be in this transparency quest,” said Study Committee member Kelli Ellsworth-Etchison. What’s going on?
Have you had ideas about how the City of East Lansing might save money or increase revenues? Curious what others have to say? Join us Monday evening!
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.
City Manager George Lahanas told Council that when DPW Director Scott House was hired, it was known that he might be called away from the City to serve. Now he has been.
Our area is a national Covid-19 hotspot. How are schools and local government responding? How is the vaccine rollout going?
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?
Despite paying nearly $20,000 for the survey conducted by a private firm, the City did not receive the raw data collected. Council expressed concern over the way survey results were analyzed and presented. What were the issues? How might the results be used moving forward?
Jessica Crawford, an MSU grad student who serves on the Commission on the Environment, organized the survey. What else did the survey say? What changes might residents expect?
What do you need to do? What are the deadlines? We bring you the details.
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.
If the City had wanted to prosecute the rental violations under East Lansing’s zoning code, the fines would have come to about $100,000 per year. What did developer Mark Bell say about Newman Lofts in 2018?
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?
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.
What kinds of things does this relatively new City Council want to see funded with HUD funds in the near future?
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.
Covid-19 has been present in East Lansing for over a year. How has it changed our community? Where does our community stand now in terms of the virus?
What’s the deal with strangely high East Lansing water bills that don’t seem to be explainable by system error?
What would the City of East Lansing be allowed to use the money for, assuming it comes through as expected? ELi’s Andrew Graham reports.
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.
Lisa Babcock was again the only objector, calling this a “sweetheart deal” for the developers and questioning why the City would give up the right to enforce its own ordinance. But Mayor Aaron Stephens said this contract amendment was the right move.
Interested artists have until March 30, by 5 p.m. to submit their qualifications. Sarah Spohn reports on the details.
Statewide, about 3.2% of listings on qualified voter rolls are erroneous. So why is East Lansing’s number possibly closer to 20%?
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.
The extraordinary request by ELPD Sergeant Jeff Thomas seeks to find out what Council members, the City Manager, and the Police Chief were saying as a police awards ceremony was cancelled. Concerns related to who was going to be honored at the event.
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.
A deal that looked closed has been opened back up after DDA Vice Chair Jim Croom, an attorney, questioned the wording Council approved in a 4-1 vote on Tuesday.
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.
The East Lansing Tax Assessor’s Review allows property owners who may have an issue with their assessment or who just have a question to get answers and potentially remedy any actual miscalculations or errors. It ends on Friday.
“I am personally dismayed and appalled at the behavior of this developer,” senior advocate Nell Kuhnmuench told the Council. She was not alone in expressing those sentiments.
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 East Lansing Public Library will allow building entry for up to one hour to patrons starting Mar. 1. Library Director Kristin Shelley hopes the reopening will help those who rely on the library to file taxes and apply for benefits.
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.
East Lansing’s City Council on Tuesday discussed approaches that could be used to convert a handful of older houses with rental licenses to owner-occupied houses. Andrew Graham reports for ELi.
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.
The library is expecting to spend about $800,000 to do some “desperately needed” maintenance on various facilities. Why is this happening just a few years after $1.5M in renovations?
The five members of East Lansing’s City Council don’t all agree on what should be done five months after the illegal rentals at Newman Lofts came to light.
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.
The City’s parking system and some of the businesses that rent retail space from the City have been hit hard by pandemic-related shut-downs. A Freedom of Information Act response gives a window to some of the numbers.
East Lansing Info is making publicly available the register of all payments made by the City of East Lansing in fiscal years 2019 ad 2020. Tell us what you would like us to examine further.
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 changes come as part of improvements to White Park and the Northern Tier Trail and have pedestrian safety in mind. Andrew Graham provides the details.
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.
Did Charlotte Brontë vote in the November 2020 election in East Lansing while residing at the Dublin Square pub? ELi’s Andrew Graham brings the answer and explains what it tells us about how Michigan’s voting system works.
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.
The City has launched a series of projects to support local businesses, particularly downtown ones. Sarah Spohn reports on these efforts and how you can participate.
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.
Area restaurant owners and managers are appealing to Gov. Whitmer, who is from East Lansing, to consider how to better mitigate the spread of Covid-19 without putting restaurants in dire financial straits.
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.
The City announced that the cull has been completed, resulting in the removal of 65 deer over the course of two evenings.
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?
The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commission of Mid-Michigan will host an event on television this evening. This morning, ELi reflects on covering news related to racial equity and justice.
City Council members discussed the issue at their Tuesday meeting. They didn’t take any action on the cull, but asked City Manager George Lahanas to push out information to address questions and concerns.
Ingham County Health Department is vaccinating 2,000 people a week and could increase this number if it were to receive more vaccines. Emily Joan Elliott reports on the initial rollout of vaccinating Phase 1B and what to expect next.
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.
Find out from ELi’s Andrew Graham what’s happening in Ranney Park, next to Marshall Music, and see drone photography from ELi’s Gary Caldwell.
From January 11 to March 1, people should lookout for barricades and notices at park entrances giving altered hours as contracted sharpshooters do their work. ELi’s Andrew Graham has the story from City Council.
ELi gives you a two-minute rundown on what to expect in terms of East Lansing government decisions this week.
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.
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.
From ELHS closing due to Covid-19, to volunteers sewing masks to donate, to the Harbor Bay dealings, our reporters highlight stories they enjoyed bringing you in 2020. At this page, you can click on “play” buttons to hear individual recordings of the articles read by their own reporters!
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.
Andrew Graham and Emily Joan Elliott are joined by ELi reporter Heather Brothers to discuss the work of the Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Commission.
The abatement will cost a little more than $200,000 over the course of 10 years — the maximum allowed period. Andrew Graham reports.
Planning Commission is currently reviewing the latest draft of a plan that would create a new zoning district, with a form-based code, called the Avenue Form District. Andrew Graham explains.
Along with School Board and City Council, there are meetings of Planning Commission, Arts Commission, Downtown Development Authority and Police Study Committee. Andrew Graham unpacks it.
The Commission also denied two separate applications seeking replace exterior wood with vinyl. Andrew Graham reports.
The team at ELi brings you the regular weekly pod and a special edition from Alice Dreger and Emily Joan Elliott on the refinancing of the Center City District bonds. Listen on.
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.”
Presentations from Deputy Police Chief Steve Gonzalez and Human Rights Commissioner Liz Miller helped the Study Committee get a better grasp on the challenges ahead. Heather Brothers reports.
Following questions from readers about when the deer cull begins, if it hasn’t already, Andrew Graham got back in touch with the City to find out the precise dates.
Social distancing has been a key component of keeping safe during the pandemic, but ELPD and ELFD personnel often work in groups and interact with the public. What precautions have they been taking?
Council member Dana Watson successfully removed sexist language from part of the proposed ordinance. Andrew Graham reports on that and the rest from Council.
Several factors contribute to the difference in costs, but one main factor is the differing ages of infrastructure. Andrew Graham explains further.
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.
After hearing about the resolution from Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Administrator Elaine Hardy, Council voted to approve the resolution. Emily Joan Elliott reports.
The Study Committee was given a presentation by Deputy Police Chief Steve Gonzalez on use of force with ELPD, and dealt with several other matters. Andrew Graham reports.
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.
The City told ELi that its efforts to “go green” involved the use of GPS for route optimization. Documents received through the Freedom of Information Act suggest the GPS units were also used to monitor worker performance. Emily Joan Elliott reports.
ELi has frequently encountered issues with Freedom of Information requests, finding that requests are often incomplete and are answered at the last possible moment. Andrew Graham explains.
During a discussion-only meeting, Council members seemed open to the idea of a tax exemption for TechSmith and briefly workshopped parking solutions, among other things. Andrew Graham reports.
Want to weigh in on cultural arts grants, a resolution declaring racism a public health crisis, money problems in Parks & Rec and in the parking system, and traffic on Highland Ave.? ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott tells you which East Lansing City meetings will cover what this week.
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.
The lone dissenter, Council member Lisa Babcock, objected to the developers’ “hostage-taking” tactics and “the pigeon driving the bus.” But she was outvoted as the rest of Council found it problematic to insist the under-55 tenants be evicted.
Tuesday night’s Council meeting confirmed a lot of what ELi has been reporting about the Center City District bonds. What did we learn?
The discussion about transparency comes days after the Human Rights Commission had a similar discussion about police transparency. Heather Brothers reports.
Members of the use of force subcommittee expressed their frustration with ELPD’s handling of a request for body camera footage and case reports. Andrew Graham unpacks the discussion.
A stacked City Council agenda, another meeting of the Police Oversight Study Committee, School Board, and more. Alice Dreger reports.
Andrew Graham, Emily Joan Elliott and Alice Dreger break down the latest news and happenings in East Lansing. Listen for more.
The Human Rights Commission will consider the disorderly conduct ordinance again this Wednesday, coming on the heels of couch burnings and mass gatherings during the pandemic. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott recaps the HRC’s concerns and this weekend’s events.
Voting today means avoiding any mischief and helping to reduced crowding tomorrow. You have until 4 pm.
After a presentation on Oct. 26, several members of the Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Commission expressed concern about the rate at which ELPD officers interacted with African Americans. Heather Brothers reports.
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.
Over 9,000 East Lansing residents have already voted. Do you have a plan for voting in the November general election? ELi provides you with some useful information.
Curious where ELPD is issuing citations for alleged violations of public health orders? ELi’s Nathan Andrus helps you visualize it.
Confused about what’s legal where in the various parts of East Lansing when it comes to Covid-19? We have you covered!
The meeting also featured a data presentation by Deputy Police Chief Steve Gonzalez and discussion of the police union’s role in the eventual oversight commission. Heather Brothers reports.
Earlier in October, ELi asked what laws in East Lansing you, the readers, would like to see changed. Andrew Graham brings you the responses.
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.
What did game day look like in East Lansing look like on Saturday? And what will happen to students who violated public health orders? ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott and Heather Brothers report.
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.
ELi is following the happenings on game day and getting you prepped for the next week of meetings in ELPS and City of East Lansing government. Andrew Graham brings you up to speed.
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.
What images best represent East Lansing? The Arts Commission weighed in as they finalize plans for a “Greetings from East Lansing” mural and other public art projects. ELi’s Heather Brothers reports.
Alice Dreger takes you through the news and notes from a (very) brief City Council meeting on Tuesday night.
Big Ten football comes backs to East Lansing this Saturday, Oct. 24. The return is bringing on a mix of excitement and apprehension. ELi’s Andrew Graham reports on what is expected and what it all means.
With Election Day just two weeks away, the City Clerk’s satellite office at the Hannah Community Center is open. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott outlines what services they offer.
The letter asks for the conference to work with local health officials to monitor community positivity prior to games and to play games earlier in the day. Andrew Graham has the details.
Chickens aren’t the typical family pet, but they may have more to give your family than you think. ELi’s Heather Brothers gets the coop scoop from Dr. Marguerite Halversen.
Several bodies, including City Council, the Downtown Development Authority, and the Commission on the Environment, meet next week. Andrew Graham takes you through the agendas.
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.
One woman received mail saying her Aug. 4 ballot hadn’t been counted, but the City Clerk was able to confirm that it had. So why did she receive the notice? The possible answers are surprisingly simple.
City Attorney Mike Homier explained that Tuesday’s meeting could proceed despite recent actions by the State Supreme Court. See what he said and what Council did on Tuesday.
After one meeting, it’s clear the task the group is charged with is a major one — and they have a six month period to get it done.
Council passed an ordinance that makes it a civil infraction to violate state and county public health orders. The City’s attitude toward enforcement is much different than its approach to the mask ordinance. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
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.
Once a cash cow, parking fines and citations have fallen dramatically in 2020. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott takes a look at how those numbers have changed, now costing the City more money than it makes in fines.
Which companies in East Lansing got big bucks from the federal Paycheck Protection Program? ELi’s Andrew Graham takes a look.
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.
“The Supreme court didn’t eradicate Covid,” new City Attorney Mike Homier said last night. He explained some of the regulatory confusion, as Council voted to extend a special mask-mandatory zone.
Mike Homier, the new City Attorney, explained the Supreme Court coronavirus decision, while Council took actions on tasers, Walgreens, clean energy, Patriarche Park, the fire code, and more.
Has the Michigan Supreme Court decision really changed COVID-19 requirements here? Are hospitalizations on the rise? Is testing down? ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott turned to Ingham County Health Officer Linda Vail for answers to our readers’ questions.
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.
Last weekend, four bars were observed by ELPD and officials from the Ingham County Health Department possibly breaking Covid-19 public health orders. No citations were issues. Read on to find out why.
The cull is expected to occur soon and will be conducted by government-employed sharpshooters working in East Lansing parks.
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.
Steve Willobee came asking for accommodation long before Covid-19, says former mayor Mark Meadows. Now the City has issued violation notices to Harbor Bay, requiring the tenants of the four illegal rentals be moved out.
The main feature of the new contract is a $500,000 annual cost cap. But the City could end up paying more than that to Foster Swift in any given year — Andrew Graham reports on how that works.
The new contract comes after two weeks of closed-door performance reviews between City Manager George Lahanas and Council. Andrew Graham has the details.
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.
Four candidates for the job were interviewed by a panel last Tuesday and then by City Manager George Lahanas on Thursday. ELi’s Andrew Graham reports.
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.
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?
Mark Bell and Steve Willobee confirmed to Council on Tuesday night that they have rented four units to people under the 55+ age restriction. This violates local law, the development agreement made with Council, and the building’s permit.
Following up on a tip from a City employee who thinks East Lansing’s vehicle policies waste tax dollars, ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott provides a look at the spending.
Reform of East Lansing’s disorderly conduct laws involve a tangled web of concerns regarding policing, civil rights, and crowd control in a university town where students have a penchant for burning couches after big games. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
Says the Health Department: “more stringent and mandatory restrictions will be imposed if students do not comply and break the transmission cycle.” ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
City Manager George Lahanas chose 24 employees to rate his job performance, and they rated him highly. Now he’s a finalist for the City Manager position in Mankato, Minnesota. Emily Joan Elliott reports for ELi.
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.
Ingham County Health Officer Linda Vail is now plainly calling on students to stop partying, warning that “Sicker, older people will get it and die.” ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
The data made available so far show just how dramatic the spike is. The recent surge of cases appear to be tied to multiple parties in the area. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
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.”
With the MSU student population pushed off campus and into town, new approaches to public health messaging, academic support, and discipline are emerging. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
East Lansing businesses with low-income employees can now apply to receive up to $10,000 in grant assistance.
Four Council members voted to offer a one-year contract with a $500K cap. Jessy Gregg voted against. Now contract negotiations will begin.
“Stephenson was acting within his authority as a police officer in trying to subdue a person who was resisting lawful arrest.” So says the special prosecutor. Andrew Graham reports.
In 2017, the developers were confident they had a viable project. Now they say they need Council’s help. Andrew Graham reports for ELi.
“I’ve heard the complaints from Harbor Bay,” Council member Lisa Babcock tells ELi. “It looks like they’re having a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day.”
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.
The total number of undergrads living off-campus could even be higher than normal because of tens of thousands of students displaced from the dorms moving into off-campus housing.
The dorms are closing to protect health. What about what’s happening in off-campus, party-prone housing?