East Lansing to Separate With City Manager Robert Belleman

The East Lansing City Council voted to approve a separation agreement with City Manager Robert Belleman at a City Council meeting Tuesday.

The vote comes weeks after the Council voted place Belleman on leave on May 26, a week after East Lansing Grants Coordinator Erica Dziedzic-Hernandez accused him of sexual harassment and other abusive behavior during a City Council meeting.

On May 21, the City Council held a special meeting where it voted to release the investigation into Dziedzic-Hernandez’s complaint. The investigation shows the complaint was filed in September of 2025 and the investigation was completed in November. 

The law firm hired to complete the investigation, Miller Canfield, did not find evidence to support Dziedzic-Hernandez’s claims of sexual harassment and bullying. The firm did outline interviews with other city employees where they told investigators that Belleman talks down to female employees and is perceived to choose favorites. 

Recently retired Planning, Building and Housing Director Annette Irwin will serve as interim city manager starting June 22, while the city searches for a long-term manager. Interim Fire Chief John Newman, who has served as acting city manager since May 27, will continue in that role until Irwin takes over.

Belleman’s departure from the city comes less than three years after he was hired in September of 2023.

This is a breaking story. We will continue to report as we find out more.