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.
Some class members have already received payments, but those with questions should reach out to class attorneys.
The fake invoice was sent to a resident who has an application being considered by the city’s Historic District Commission.
An audit showed ELPS improved its net financial position last fiscal year.
The final approval of the settlement brings a five-year legal battle to a close.
About 5,000 federal civilian employees live in Michigan’s 7th Congressional District, which includes East Lansing.
The committee, which is designed to carry seven members, drew interest from just three applicants.
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 settlement is over a “disguised tax” the city issued by having BWL install a franchise fee in electric bills. Money collected through the fee was then rerouted to the city.
The millage and charter amendment will likely be decided by voters during the November election.
The city is budgeted to carry a roughly $2 million deficit next fiscal year.
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.
The city is grappling with a projected deficit of more than $3.1 million in the next fiscal year.
Council approved a tentative agreement on a settlement amount without disclosing just how much the city will need to spend reimbursing LBWL customers.
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…
City officials appear poised to ask voters to renew the income tax before it sunsets in 2031.
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 funds will be divided between nine different applicants.
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.
While the state’s budget has not yet been finalized, ELPS Director of Finance Rich Pugh gave an update on proposed school funding.
City staff returned for the second straight week to present on budget requests, Tuesday, April 23.
The new fiscal year will start July 1, 2024.
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.
Some East Lansing residents have been surprised to receive notices that they may owe the city income taxes.
If approved, the “safety, security, accessibility bond” will go toward improvements at ELHS and MMS as well as a new central office building.
Despite emotional testimony from many personally impacted by the conflict, the resolution drafted by the Human Rights Commission was rejected 4-1.
During public comment, speakers requested the city support a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Cathy DeShambo replied to questions about the recreation fee structures and provided a link to the department’s budget document.
ELi catches you up on big business in the city coming this Tuesday.
There is more than meets the eye behind the costs for renovation of the Patriarche Park courts.
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.
Weeks after being advised by Lansing’s deputy mayor that giving cash away to a local charity violates state law, East Lansing’s mayor supported another $5,000 donation by his city. And why did former city manager George Lahanas start two “nongovernmental” charities from City Hall?
ELi brings you an insider look at the City of East Lansing’s operations, revenue and spending as viewed through the lens of this year’s budget talks.
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.
The wastewater treatment plant is processing over 4 billion gallons a year…and water rates are going up. Bike lanes are coming to Coolidge and Hagadorn Roads. The Red Cedar Neighborhood will get a new water main. What else can you expect in the coming year?
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.
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.
ELi’s brings you the story behind this important win for the city.
In a 4-0 vote, City Council approved a resolution to accept the funds.
What did East Lansing’s City Council decide this week?
Why was “catastrophe” looming? ELi explains and tells you what happened with the latest refinance of the Evergreen Properties debt.
The 2-2 vote to not sign the MEDC agreement means the project as proposed will not move forward.
Board of Review is no longer able to step outside Council’s guidelines.
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?
More units of housing, but fewer residents. And a more diverse populace. What else changed about East Lansing from 2010 to 2020?
What’s going on with the City of East Lansing’s pension funds? How much money is marijuana bringing in taxes? What’s going on with the city’s income tax? ELi follows the money and brings you this special report.
What the DDA decides this Thursday could determine not just whether River Caddis Development obtains a special deal that will exclude other developers, but also what gets built next downtown and how much longer the DDA will prolong its bond debt. ELi catches you up.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Councilmembers take on a wide-range of topics and issues during Sept. 20 meeting.
The mayor hopes to “really aggravate Indianapolis,” and Council is seeking a legal opinion on conflicts of interest. What else happened this Tuesday night?
The farmers market will likely get a new pavilion. What about other big changes potentially coming to that part of town?
In this edition of Ask ELi, we bring you answers on tax assessments, the sewer system, ELPD social workers, and unpaid parking tickets.
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 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.
The MSU Broad Art Lab’s collaborative space that once welcomed makers, innovators, and lifelong learners, has shut its doors. Sarah Spohn reports.
![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.”
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
Council discussed plans for marketing and development of a City-owned property in the northern tier. What might we expect to see there?
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.
![Unions Renew Push For ARPA Hazard Pay To City Employees Who Risked Covid Exposure [UPDATED]](https://eastlansinginfo.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/City-Hall-front-door-768x504.png)
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 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.
The athletic field and tennis courts at ELHS will undergo significant renovations this summer, and remaining bond money will be used to create outdoor learning spaces at the elementary schools. Al Hargrave provides a School Board round up.
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.
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.
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 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”?
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.
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.
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?
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.
At its first meeting since the school shooting in Oxford, Michigan, the ELPS School Board discussed student safety and a host of other issues, including finances, a new policy handbook, and curriculum changes. Al Hargrave delivers your School Board round up.
The Transportation Commission provided more details on the upcoming construction to Burcham Drive. When will it start? What will it entail?
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.
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?
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!
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.
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.
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?
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!
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.
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!
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?
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?
Are the kindergarten classrooms at Marble smaller or the class sizes bigger? What’s going on with bus routes, bond money, and Burcham Drive? We answer your questions about East Lansing Public Schools in this Ask ELi Grab Bag.
City Council candidate forums, the possibility of a new City Attorney, an issue of representation at the Arts Commission, and parliamentary procedure. Alice Dreger brings updates on all that and more!
The 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?
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.
ELi catches you up on what’s happening (and not happening) in downtown East Lansing’s real estate redevelopment scene. Check it out!
The relatively high Covid numbers at Glencairn Elementary dominated discussions, but the School Board trustees also discussed how to use remaining bond money, a financial audit, and more. We bring you a round up.
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.
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.
The cost of library renovations could reach $1.5 million by the time the work is complete. The Library Board of Trustees is looking to Council for financial support.
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!
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.
What renovations are coming to the East Lansing Public Library? What programs are being offered? What is happening with contract negotiations with non-supervisory workers? Emily Joan Elliott reports.
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.
The power supply to the lights at the pickleball court was cut. Why? And why won’t there be repairs anytime soon?
While the meeting largely focused on excitement about returning to school on the heels of the district’s unusually intensive summer offerings, a debate emerged during public comment about the district’s work related to equity and social justice. We bring you a round up of the Aug. 23 School Board meeting
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
Will Pinecrest get a new name? Will school be in-person or virtual in the fall? When will food distribution happen? Is the track open to the public? Find the answers to these questions – and more – in the School Board round up.
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.
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!
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?
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.
What decisions were made by East Lansing’s City Council this week? Find out in this recap from ELi, your local independent news source.
Marking the one year anniversary of George Floyd’s murder, what plans does the district have to continue its work on racial equity and social justice? How might changes made during the pandemic improve future years?
Who will replace Tim McCaffrey as Director of Parks & Rec? What else is going on in Parks & Rec? Emily Joan Elliott reports.
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.
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.
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 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.
The idea was addressed at the Parks and Rec Advisory Commission meeting last Wednesday. Where might you find some new grub options this summer?
An idea being floated would close a lane to benefit the three restaurants of the Center City District project. Why are long-time downtown restaurant owners against this latest placemaking idea?
ELi’s 90-minute public brainstorming session produced a lot of ideas for how the City could increase revenues and reduce expenses. Have a look!
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
After announcing that second-year students will be required to live on-campus, MSU is upgrading its infrastructure and making other changes. What will this entail?
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.
Who has been benefiting from this program? A Freedom of Information Act request brings the answer.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
After several marathon meetings in a row, the School Board held a short meeting, discussing some details of the upcoming return to in-person learning, building construction, and recognition of some achievements in the district.
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.
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.
We bring answers to lots of questions about East Lansing’s income tax, including how working from home may change what you owe.
The City and school district held several important meetings this week. The ELi team brings you the updates.
ELi’s Alice Dreger brings you the latest in the redevelopment deal on the DDA’s debt-ridden Evergreen properties. What’s up with “The CITADEL” now?
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.
Here’s a comprehensive timeline of East Lansing’s Center City District redevelopment, beginning with the press conference where it was announced.
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.
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.
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.”
Andrew Graham, Alice Dreger and Emily Joan Elliott talk shop and decompress while discussing a whirlwind few days in East Lansing.
Several factors contribute to the difference in costs, but one main factor is the differing ages of infrastructure. Andrew Graham explains further.
The move, motivated by academic and financial concerns, is likely to have a major impact on the economy of East Lansing.
Who is the investor for the refinancing bonds? Mark Bell’s father. Again. And any chance of saving that $6 million in taxes appears to be evaporating.
Expect public discussions and decisions on pensions, policing, a radically new zoning code, and Georgio’s Pizza’s lease — but probably not on those controversial bonds.
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.
How does ELi cover taxes and finances in East Lansing? Publisher Alice Dreger explains.
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.
A long-planned project will improve sewer infrastructure and change the amount of parking in the area, leaving some displeased. Alice Dreger reports.
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.
The cost of living in and running a business in East Lansing has indeed been going up. Alice Dreger reviews some of the changes.
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.
The trio of Alice Dreger, Emily Joan Elliott and Andrew Graham break down the latest happenings in East Lansing. Read on to listen.
Tuesday night’s Council meeting confirmed a lot of what ELi has been reporting about the Center City District bonds. What did we learn?
A stacked City Council agenda, another meeting of the Police Oversight Study Committee, School Board, and more. Alice Dreger reports.
ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott, Alice Dreger and Andrew Graham break down what happened over the weekend and bring an in-depth feature on the Center City District bonds disputes.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
ELi’s Alice Dreger and Chris Root tell you what stands out in the submitted plans and what comes next in the review process.
In the midst of plunging public revenues, East Lansing Parks & Rec is moving forward with various projects by pulling together funds from various sources. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
During June and July, 97 full- and part-time City of East Lansing employees are working reduced hours, but with little impact on their income.
Tables will be available 11 am to 10 pm for people who want to sit and enjoy food and drink purchased from restaurants within a 3-block radius.
The DDA supported the idea of live entertainment downtown geared towards families with kids. They also discussed the issue of noise coming from some bars.
Outdoor lockers will help with 24/7 contactless delivery. What else will be changing at the library?
For years, citizen watchdogs warned the City of East Lansing not to continue partnering with Chappelle. If convicted on the bank fraud charge, he faces up to 30 years in prison.
ELi brings you the latest news on this project, including about the design, timing, and environmental contamination at the site.
East Lansing’s City Government is getting busy. What’s up?
Parking revenues have taken a steep dive. Fees and fines are way down. The shortfall in the Parks & Rec budget looks to be $300,000. And with MSU shuttered, the income tax can’t save us now.
The impact of the pandemic on MSU is shaping the individual and collective lives of the greater East Lansing community.
Only 57 applicants were deemed eligible for the 100 grants. Now, those who have been late on tax payments will be able to try again.
Who will work with the developers to try to hammer out a deal this time? And why did the vote split 5-4?
A lot of worrisome news from Monday’s East Lansing School Board meeting.
We bring news on construction at all six elementary schools, including what we know so far about the finances.
What’s fair to charge bars and restaurants in East Lansing? And should liquor licenses be more heavily regulated here?
We tell you what we know so far about what will be discussed at City Council, School Board, and the DDA.
What’s happening with Newman Lofts, police oversight, big downtown construction, and more? ELi brings you up to speed.
It’s a good thing the East Lansing Public Schools district has saved millions of dollars to prepare for economic declines.
How did the Downtown Development Authority ultimately decide to judge applications for one hundred grants of $2,500 each?
ELi brings you information about agendas and tells you how you can attend.
The DDA will meet Thursday to decide on criteria for $250K in grants to local businesses. We explain what’s been decided so far.
Schools of choice numbers, graduation cancelled, ELHS ranking, elementary school construction delays, and much more in our School Board report.
The DDA is diverting $250,000 to help 100 local businesses, as City Council will discuss other possible aid mechanisms.
The mayor doesn’t want to be led with an offer of an office building and told later the developers want to construct towering student housing.
Trustees of the East Lansing Public Library met to talk about the tough times now and the tough times ahead.
East Lansing’s Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem are willing to consider converting the senior housing to some other uses.
Many predicted this would happen, but few expected it so soon. What now?
With work halted under the governor’s orders, it’s unclear what East Lansing’s elementary schools’ populations will be facing next year.
Emergency federal legislation means the City of East Lansing will soon receive almost $300K in funding. What can it be used for?
A wave of layoffs speaks to the massive financial challenges faced by the government and businesses of East Lansing.
Every month MSU employees work from home means significant lost revenue for the City of East Lansing’s new income tax.
In an effort to prevent homelessness, the Cities of East Lansing and Lansing are making extraordinary contributions to Haven House and other charities.
Various groups in this region, including the Capital Area Housing Partnership, are working to help people avoid eviction, foreclosure, and homelessness.
What will the Skymint operation on Coolidge Road be like, and what is more generally the status of retail marijuana sales in East Lansing? ELi’s Chris Gray reports.
People who owe the City of East Lansing an income tax return for 2019 now have until July 31 to file. But what’s the outlook for the City’s finances now?
Greg Ballein, owner of East Lansing’s Student Book Store (SBS), has closed the store for COVID-19. He tells Eli’s Noa Kuszai why he thinks the City should be giving small businesses financial assistance.
City Council met today to extend East Lansing’s State of Emergency. ELi’s Alice Dreger donned a mask to attend and report for you what happened.
With one developer pulling out, leaving only one left, this isn’t what East Lansing’s DDA had in mind when it sent out a call to developers about the Evergreen properties.
Superintendent Dori Leyko explains the latest delay in the completion of building projects at both Donley and Glencairn elementary schools.