Earlier this week, I had the privilege of addressing East Lansing’s fine educators during a teacher’s assembly. During my comments I shared that I am frequently asked about the importance of schools to the community - a question to which I respond in several ways. Read More »
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One Book, One Community officially kicked off its 2008 program this week and I couldn’t be more excited for the things to come later this month and next month as part of the seventh year of this incredibly valuable and successful program. Read More »
For more than four years, downtown East Lansing and its visitors have enjoyed the addition of an alternative art space known as (SCENE) Metrospace. The space has become a cherished venue for many in our community who have come to appreciate the alternative... Read More »
During a press conference held on August 6, 2008 EL Police Chief Tom Wibert announced that the City is enjoying a 28-year low in serious crimes which includes murder, criminal sexual conduct, rape and aggravated assault among others. The department released a report that shows an overall decrease in serious crimes from 1,833 in 1998, to 1085 in 2007. The report also highlights other key trends such as increased drunk driving arrests due to stepped-up enforcement, which has been a personal priority for Chief Wibert since he took over in May of 2005. Additionally, noise complaints are at an all-time low and car accidents are down by 500 incidents from four years ago. This is due in large part to speed limit enforcement and strategic traffic engineering.... Read More »
A recent viewpoint in the Lansing State Journal regarding recycling practices at the City’s Aquatic Center has prompted city staff to further review how we dispose of recyclable materials in city facilities. Before going any further, however, I would... Read More »
On June 16-17 I had an opportunity to meet with city administrators and police chiefs from Big Ten University Communities at a gathering in West Lafayette, Indiana. I traveled to and from the meeting with City Administrator Roger Fraser, my counterpart... Read More »
As many of you know, the City of East Lansing initiated its successful Emerging Leaders Program (ELELP) in the fall of 2007. To date, approximately half of the 22 graduates have been appointed to one of the city’s 20+ sanctioned boards and commissions.... Read More »
For the past six months or so, I have enjoyed blogging every few weeks on a variety of matters, some of which are straightforward and others that are weightier. I have always appreciated those who take the time to comment regardless of what position is... Read More »
There seems to be a perception by some that city employees drive into to town, work their 40 hours, collect a paycheck and hit the road. I am deeply concerned about the implication that members of staff are not invested public servants, but rather, resemble... Read More »
During a recent City Council Work Session, representatives of Pierce Education Properties were on hand to give a presentation and answer questions from the public regarding the proposed East Village Project which is a 25 square acre, mixed-use development... Read More »