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?
City Council’s meeting for tonight is being rescheduled for next Monday due to technical difficulties.
Mask enforcement in East Lansing is turning out to be tricky. Emily Joan Elliott brings the details.
Outdoor parties will be limited to 25 people under a new County Health rule applied to part of East Lansing. How will this work in practice?
East Lansing’s Council took up many issues of equity and racism at last week’s five-hour meeting, including passing an anti-bias law and authorizing the use of $153K for anti-racism training.
Following unanimous votes by the new Council, adults 21 and up will be able to buy marijuana for non-medical use at three East Lansing locations. What happened with “social equity”?
What other jobs do your East Lansing City Council members hold? ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
“We’ve always including reducing isolation and loneliness among the older population in our annual goals,” Prime Time Seniors Director Kelly Arndt told ELi’s Ann Kammerer. “The pandemic really pushed it to the forefront.”
East Lansing’s recycling center on State Road is back open, and residents can now buy yard waste stickers online. Amalia Medina reports for ELi.
“We are hearing over and over about how tight the site is,” Planning Commissioner Chris Wolf said before voting against the proposal. “What I’m getting from that is that the building is too large for the site.” The rest of the commission supported it.
Wear a mask in the Downtown Development Authority district or face a polite ambassador. Persist in not wearing a mask and face a $25 fine from the police.
City Council is putting off possibly asking voters whether to add 2 seats to the Council, bringing the total seats from 5 to 7.
Wearing matching t-shirts saying “good trouble,” the new City Council met for the first time last night. We give you a rundown of what happened during those five hours.
Planning Commission will likely vote on a recommendation for the MSUFCU proposal tonight. ELi brings you the details with images and maps.
UPDATE: Rental and mortgage assistance is now available on a first-come, first-serve basis for East Lansing residents whose income is at or below the area median income. ELi’s Chris Root explains the programs.
Confusion over complex and rapidly-changing Executive Orders from Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s office contributed to the Covid-19 outbreak at Harper’s. What else has been learned?
Starting Monday, Aug. 10, masks will be required in all public spaces in the DDA district under a new order by Mayor Aaron Stephens.
What’s the Elder Persons Millage on the Aug. 4 Ingham County ballot about? ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott explains.
With Harper’s still closed after the COVID-19 outbreak, the owners are now defending themselves against recent accusations of unsafe conditions and failure to fully compensate workers.
Council will likely soon name new members of the Planning Commission, DDA, BRA, and Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Commission.
Bacon tells ELi he had been thinking of running for Council in 2021. Now appointed to a seat, he hopes to represent new voices, prioritize a smart Covid response, and continue work on racial equity.
Mark Meadows had been encouraging Watson to run for Council. His resignation gave her a chance to step in, and now she tells ELI about what she’d like to tackle in the next year.
Mayor Aaron Stephens noted that this is apparently the first time East Lansing’s Council will be majority persons of color.
ELi’s Andrew Graham gives you an overview of the “interviews” for City Council and tells you how to weigh in before the decision Saturday morning.
City Manager George Lahanas’s contract is worth over $200,000 per year. Mayor Aaron Stephens wants to extend it now, without a performance review.
ELi’s Andrew Graham brings you the list of 13 finalists and the 8 questions they will be asked.
A total of 22 citizens have applied to fill 2 vacant Council seats. Who are they, and what will be the process? ELi’s Andrew Graham reports.
Expect to see signage around town encouraging students to be personally responsible in order to “stay safe to stay open.” ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
River Caddis Development has put together a draft agreement that would shift yet more of The CITADEL project costs onto the public ledger. For now, East Lansing’s DDA has agreed to more talks.
The City Council is seeking a new city attorney, and the DDA and BRA are looking for an attorney and a financial advisor. What’s up?
Harper’s owner Pat Riley warned today that COVID-19 is “a silent invisible thief” who steals your business’s reputation. He made his case to the Michigan Liquor Control Commission for reopening Harper’s.
Applications for the two vacant seats on East Lansing City Council are now open. ELi has the details on the process and timeline for filling the seats.
Here’s what to expect as the three remaining City Council members move to appoint people to the two vacant seats.
East Lansing’s Brownfield Redevelopment Authority learned a lot more this week about the $25M existing bond and voted to get a financial advisor before committing to a refinancing proposal.
Aaron Stephens will become the Mayor of East Lansing, and the remaining members will decide who will fill the two vacant seats. The City Attorney’s contract will end October 1.
A special meeting of the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority has been called to deal with major questions about what the City really owes the developer in taxes on the Center City District deal.
Instead of the Jackson County prosecutor – a Republican – functioning as the Special Prosecutor – now the case will be reviewed by the Washtenaw County prosecutor – a Democrat. Stephenson’s lawyer is concerned “that a fix is in.”
At Planning Commission, the eBay auction winners asked for more time on their approvals, and owners of three already-built locations asked for permission to sell recreational marijuana. What happened?
Is East Lansing’s Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (BRA) about to accidentally issue over $2 million in essentially worthless bonds?
Could municipal regulation of food delivery services help local restaurants survive?
The East Lansing Public Library has a new fine-free policy, eliminating fines for late returns. ELi’s Amalia Medina explains the new policy’s philosophy and practice.
It appears possible that there is now a City Council majority willing to revise or even end the City Attorney’s contract. But Tuesday’s agenda doesn’t tell us much.
The developer came well armed with representatives, but the City went in with no financial advisor to this deal. Its usual advisor is actually being paid with public money to represent the developers.
East Lansing’s civil rights commission is pushing to learn more about use of force incidents by ELPD officers. This and other policing issues were discussed at the group’s recent meeting.
Coolidge Court is the only strip mall in the City that is prohibited from having businesses open on Sundays, a restriction the developer agreed to in 1986. Now Council will take up the matter.
Jackson County prosecutor Jerard Jarzynka will act as the special prosecutor to review a Black man’s complaint of alleged excessive use of force by ELPD Officer Andrew Stephenson, who is white.
The HRC is also working on advocating for people with Down Syndrome who may be denied organ transplants on the basis of having a developmental disability.
The Bell family of developers is back. What new Center City District public financing deal will be made with them this time? ELi’s Alice Dreger reports what we know.
At the City of East Lansing, men hold two-thirds of the full-time jobs, and five departments employ only white people. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
Many restaurants and bars downtown will now refuse service to anyone not wearing a mask. What else is happening to prepare for fall?
Council member Lisa Babcock strongly objected to handing over to the Mayor wide and unspecified powers during declared States of Emergency.
ELi’s Alice Dreger explains how Big Marijuana came to dominate East Lansing’s business scene and why some think it’s high time to pursue “Social Equity.”
The new order will reduce capacity in 19 East Lansing establishments. We tell you which and bring reactions from City Council members and one restaurant owner.
Ever wondered why the shops in Coolidge Court aren’t open on Sundays? That restriction dates back to 1986, and now the developer-owner wants it removed. Many neighbors aren’t happy.
Cases of the coronavirus tied to people who visited Harper’s are now up to 76. None of those people have been hospitalized.
Following up on proposals pitched by Council member Lisa Babcock, City Council is looking at a law criminalizing “weaponizing police” and at making complaints against police officers more public. Andrew Graham reports.
Officer Andrew Stephenson’s defense attorney has strongly criticized Mayor Ruth Beier’s remarks about his client. Citizens came forward this week to join him in his criticisms.
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.
Aaron Applebey brings ELi readers the news of muralist, street artist, illustrator, and self-identified doodle dame Laura Asta coming to East Lansing.
The East Lansing City Clerk’s Office needs election workers for the upcoming August Michigan primary and the November presidential election. ELi’s Ken Sperber tells you what the job entails.
Elaine Hardy tells ELi she’s ready to speak truth to power in City Hall when it comes to issues of diversity, inclusion, and equity. “Otherwise, the position is unnecessary.”
“The March Against Fear” started at East Lansing’s City Hall and Police Department and ended at the MSU President’s house. Andrew Graham reports, with photos from Gary Caldwell.
Free parking ends June 30. Georgio’s has asked the City for rent forgiveness, but the parking system can’t afford it. The finances look bad.
According to Ingham County Health Officer Linda Vail, the 22 cases include one employee. What can government officials do to compel masks and other interventions?
News on The Abbot, The Graduate, affordable housing, Coleman Road, the new elementary schools, MSUFCU’s downtown project, and marijuana sales locations. We also tell you where in East Lansing the state’s wetland protection agency plans a new office building that would disturb a wetland.
Here come requests to sell recreational marijuana, the superintendent’s (closed door) review, teacher and police retirements, and so much more. ELi keeps you informed before the decisions are made.
This week, a majority of Council okayed new vests in spite of concerns they might appear too militaristic. What was the reasoning, and why are ELPD officers firing guns when they do?
Attorney Mike Nichols says Mayor Ruth Beier is out of line with her comments about his client, ELPD Officer Andrew Stephenson. He explains for ELi what he sees on the tapes.
The DDA voted unanimously to seek expert independent legal counsel. The most immediate need is representation in any deal made over the Evergreen properties. Andrew Graham reports for ELi.
Lisa Babcock has proposed East Lansing’s Council quickly pass five measures to deal with possible excessive use of force by police and possible bias in the City Attorney’s prosecution. ELi’s Andrew Graham spoke with her and Human Relations Commissioner Chuck Grigsby.
Is big new office space viable? What tax incentives will the developers want? And what does the new “stakeholders” team think of it all?
Slotkin said she favors police reform, not defunding police, and that she hopes to see MSU and East Lansing’s leaders work together on the COVID-19 public health emergency.
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.
The commission discussed redevelopment along Coolidge and West Roads, whether DTN should be allowed to use part of the first floor of “300 Grand” for a private fitness room, and more.
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.
Ingham County Prosecutor Carol Siemon has informed ELi that she is taking a major step in the ongoing investigation into the actions of ELPD Officer Andrew Stephenson, accused by two African American men of brutality.
Until now, East Lansing’s DDA has relied on City Attorney Tom Yeadon. Now it is moving to hire independent counsel.
Why did everything about the investigation into the two excessive force complaints against Stephenson stop in early May and suddenly restart in early June?
Beier declared herself “fully woke,” Stephens wants social workers in the police department, Meadows defended his claim “good cops don’t protect bad cops,” Babcock was largely silent, and Gregg wants to look at defunding the police.
A day after ELi’s Patty Bonito reported it’d be a long time before playgrounds and the dog park would reopen, the Parks & Rec Director changed his mind.
East Lansing playgrounds will remain off-limits until at least July 13, and the dog park until August 3 according to Tim McCaffrey, Parks & Rec Director.
Rane, the leader of yesterday’s event, told those assembled the conflict “is not Black versus White. Let us be clear about that. It is racism against America. It is inequality against America.”
The stunning reversal is said to be the result of the City and County Prosecutor realizing there had been a communication mishap, due partly to the State Police.
ELi’s Alice Dreger reports on what video from Sunday seems to show and how East Lansing Interim Police Chief Steve Gonzalez is seeing the protests.
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 has been made aware of at least three cases of this, and East Lansing Police detectives are now seeking more information from community members.
The filing of Chapter 11 bankruptcy by HopCat’s parent company speaks to the level of distress in the bar and restaurant industry. The City of East Lansing is trying to help out.
A reader wondered why one ELPD car was left in the middle of the parking lot as protestors approached on Sunday.
Protestors called for the firing of an ELPD officer and dropping of charges against a black man who that officer injured and then held down with his knee.
As protestors prepare to gather again at ELPD at noon, East Lansing Mayor Ruth Beier tells ELi that she wants big changes in policing here.
A reader asked: What’s the jurisdiction of ELPD versus MSUPD?
About a thousand people came to protest at East Lansing Police headquarters today as part of nationwide protests against racist police brutality. In a tense stand-off, a police vehicle’s windows were smashed.
As we have another round of “free” yard-waste pick-up coming, we answer a reader’s question about what this is costing.
ELi brings you the latest news on this project, including about the design, timing, and environmental contamination at the site.
Just about the only people not eligible to serve on the study committee are those who are active-duty police officers.
“It’s going to be scarier for the city than I think it is for campus,” Beier said about MSU’s decision to reopen in the fall.
The vote happened in the shadow of the police killing of George Floyd and amidst more calls for firing ELPD Officer Andrew Stephenson.
East Lansing’s City Government is getting busy. What’s up?
Housing Administrator Annette Irwin told a city commission last night that all bets are off in terms of when we might see that long-awaited housing study.
Representatives of the police unions say “the City Council shows an obvious disdain for our law enforcement officers” as talks continue on policing in East Lansing.
As long as the state presents no barriers and the weather cooperates, the culture of drinking and dining in East Lansing will change for at least a few months.
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.
City staff are looking into ways to enable people to enjoy food and drink (including beer and wine) from local restaurants outside, in public spaces set up with picnic tables.
Following release of police body cam video, citizens and at least one Human Relations Commissioner are demanding more action by ELPD, the East Lansing City Manager, and City Council.
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?
While it won’t be the same without the 3-D strolling experience, the show will go on for the East Lansing Art Festival.
New developments in the shake-up at ELPD: videos from December are released, and changes are in the works.
East Lansing’s City Council is taking steps toward the ultimate creation of a Police Oversight Commission. What are the sticking points?
The ELPS School Board unanimously passed a resolution not on the agenda, encouraging the banning of weapons at the Michigan State Capitol.
Did a City worker really roll a recycling truck? Is the hybrid truck too expensive to fix? We asked.
What’s fair to charge bars and restaurants in East Lansing? And should liquor licenses be more heavily regulated here?
East Lansing’s Environmental Services Administrator Cathy DeShambo has some suggestions about what to do while your house is overflowing with recyclables.
We tell you what we know so far about what will be discussed at City Council, School Board, and the DDA.
This year’s market will look a lot different, but will still open on June 7 and run on Sundays in Valley Court Park.
City Council will pursue a Citizen Oversight Panel for complaints, and ELPD will look anew at “head stabilization” in light of injuries to two black men.
What’s happening with Newman Lofts, police oversight, big downtown construction, and more? ELi brings you up to speed.
How did the Downtown Development Authority ultimately decide to judge applications for one hundred grants of $2,500 each?
An advance request and payment is still required to get large items hauled away. But that’s available, too.
Gotcha says scooters can be helpful during a pandemic. The City replies, “Wash your hands!”
ELi brings you information about agendas and tells you how you can attend.
The DDA will meet Thursday to decide on criteria for $250K in grants to local businesses. We explain what’s been decided so far.
The DDA is diverting $250,000 to help 100 local businesses, as City Council will discuss other possible aid mechanisms.
ELi is working to help you figure out when important local government meetings are happening.
City staff are looking into whether East Lansing’s market could follow the style of the Allen neighborhood market in Lansing.
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.
A reader asked if East Lansing’s recycling is being treated as trash during the pandemic. We bring the answer.
The credit union is going ahead. But the City’s Planning Director says they’ve put the housing study on hold. Why?
East Lansing’s Summer Solstice Jazz Festival has been added to list of coronavirus casualties.
With the only active proposal for the DDA’s properties, River Caddis Development wants an exclusive agreement. But do they have a viable concept?
Trustees of the East Lansing Public Library met to talk about the tough times now and the tough times ahead.
Mayor Ruth Beier says virtual meetings are not a good way to conduct the public’s business. The other four members of Council say the show must go on.
The City of East Lansing is working on how to hold public meetings without allowing disruptions that are seen as inappropriate.
East Lansing’s Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem are willing to consider converting the senior housing to some other uses.
We bring the latest data from Ingham County, including about age, race, and geographic distribution.
Many predicted this would happen, but few expected it so soon. What now?
The City can undertake the work in spite of the lockdown because it has designated it “essential.” What’s involved?
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?
Which City of East Lansing government meetings are starting up again, and which have yet to resume?
A wave of layoffs speaks to the massive financial challenges faced by the government and businesses of East Lansing.
Every month MSU employees work from home means significant lost revenue for the City of East Lansing’s new income tax.
No more recreational fire permits for now. This and numerous other measures are being taken to protect police and firefighter-paramedics in East Lansing.
Tenants for The Abbot signed leases expecting a summer move-in. The developer thinks work should be allowed to continue.
The East Lansing Public Library’s doors are closed but its online treasure chest is open! Find out what’s available and how things are going financially.
In an effort to prevent homelessness, the Cities of East Lansing and Lansing are making extraordinary contributions to Haven House and other charities.
What could earn you a thousand-dollar fine in East Lansing under the stay-at-home order? ELi explains.
The City of East Lansing has issued a new list of cancellations and closures, including the 2020 Art Festival, the 2020 Aquatic Center season, and the softball and soccer complexes. Mark Meyer files this report for ELi.
Under a new executive order, school buildings will remain closed for the rest of this school year. But what about the education of East Lansing Public Schools’ kids? Emily Joan Elliott reports.
What to do – if anything – about there being no parks in East Lansing named after women or people of color? The debate continues.
What African Americans have been saying for years has now been shown conclusively: stops made by East Lansing Police Department officers evidence a cumulative racial bias.
Today, ELi brings answers to readers’ medical questions about the coronavirus: Are our area hospitals ready? What if they are overwhelmed? Will donated blood be safe? And more.
Various groups in this region, including the Capital Area Housing Partnership, are working to help people avoid eviction, foreclosure, and homelessness.
A local nurse tells ELi she is afraid “that people are not taking this seriously and putting our lives at risk” as healthcare providers. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
Data are showing conclusively that coronavirus has been spreading in Ingham County. Local experts say the real numbers are definitely above the official counts.
Should you get tested if you have symptoms of the coronavirus? And if so, how do you go about it here? ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott explains.
The crane is no longer moving at The Abbot. But there’s some good news from the project. ELi’s Alice Dreger reports.
What’s it like being an international student at MSU during the rapid changes caused by the pandemic? ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott spoke with Ramya Swayamprakash and Liao Zhang to find out.
What’s it like reporting during a pandemic? ELi reporter Emily Joan Elliott and photographer Gary Caldwell share their experiences.
Why do death rates tell us more than test results can? What will save lives as the virus spreads? ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott brings you the latest important information from MSU epidemiologist Nigel Paneth.
East Lansing Mayor Ruth Beier is angry that the federal, state, and county governments did not act much sooner on COVID-19. ELi spoke with her just after the Governor’s stay-at-home order.
People who owe the City of East Lansing an income tax return for 2019 now have until July 31 to file. But what’s the outlook for the City’s finances now?
Doubling of state’s coronavirus cases prompts Whitmer to take decisive action. ELi’s Chris Root provides an update.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer isn’t the only East Lansing Public Schools parent who wishes kids could keep learning for credit during the public health emergency. What’s going on?
The shift to online learning happened with little warning at MSU. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott brings this inside look at the rapid and monumental change at East Lansing’s core institution.
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.
East Lansing’s emergency services providers are now taking special measures to reduce the odds that they will be exposed to COVID-19. ELi spoke with the police and fire chiefs to learn more.
City Council met today to extend East Lansing’s State of Emergency. ELi’s Alice Dreger donned a mask to attend and report for you what happened.
At Burcham Hills, elimination of communal activities is one of the protections in place during the coronavirus emergency. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott spoke to residents about their concerns.
Friday morning 3/20/20 at 10 a.m., East Lansing’s City Council will meet partly electronically to vote whether to extend our local State of Emergency.
The Census Bureau is saying students who normally attend school here should be counted as living here for the census. But will they be?
An MSU epidemiologist and resident of East Lansing tells ELi he has never seen such a public health threat in his life. And he’s worked in public health for over 40 years. Read why Dr. Nigel Paneth is alarmed.
Mayor Ruth Beier has declared a state of emergency in East Lansing. We tell you in practical terms what that means.
Even before Ingham County Health issued a new order, some East Lansing bars and restaurants were moving to help “flatten the curve.” All face grave economic uncertainty.
MSU is taking further action to try to get its undergraduate population in particular to stop hanging out in large groups that might spread the coronavirus. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
This page is designed to help readers find ELi reporting on various issues related to policing in East Lansing, including philosophy and policies of ELPD administrators, complaints made against officers since 2016, discussions of creating a civilian police oversight commission, and more.
East Lansing City leaders are working steadily to try to figure out a way to reduce or eliminate bar crowds in East Lansing to try to slow the spread of the coronavirus. ELi’s Alice Dreger reports.
The East Lansing Public Schools administration has announced plans for feeding children during the public health emergency now ongoing. Here are the details.
ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott spoke with East Lansing’s deputy police chief and an MSU epidemiologist to help you prepare, in case you’re stuck at home.