On Thursday, November 13, 18 community leaders graduated from the City’s ten-week course in civic engagement. Participants were exposed to local government in the areas of history and structure, economic development, partnerships, regionalism, municipal finance and conflict resolution. Read More »
On Thursday, November 13, 18 community leaders graduated from the City’s ten-week course in civic engagement. Participants were exposed to local government in the areas of history and structure, economic development, partnerships, regionalism, municipal finance and conflict resolution.
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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 expressions of art, local musical acts and unique, thought-provoking exhibits showcased within its walls.With that being said, (SCENE) did... 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... 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 in the City of Ann Arbor. Since both of us serve large university communities, we had much in common to discuss, not the least of which is downtown... 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. All of the 2007 program graduates reported a very positive experience with the program. In addition to serving on boards and commissions, the 2007... 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 to be located between Bogue St. on the west, Stoddard Ave. on the east, the Red Cedar River on the south and Grand River Ave. on the north. The Pierce... Read More »
Property Taxes in Perspective-Things Not Always As They Seem As East Lansing City Manager, I frequently receive questions regarding the city's property tax rate. It is no wonder, because in today’s uncertain economic times every penny counts. Residents and prospective homebuyers often try to balance two considerations relating to owning or buying a home: the mortgage payment and property taxes.... Read More »