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TABLE OF CONTENTS
CITY DEPARTMENTS
FROMTHE MAYOR ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 2
ASSESSING ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
DEPARTMENT OF NEIGHBORHOODS, ARTS, & CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT (DNACE) ........................................... 9
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & PLANNING (EDP).........................................................................................................................................................49
EXECUTIVEOFFICE OF THE MAYOR ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 71
FINANCE ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................85
FIRE ...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................87
HUMAN RELATIONS & COMMUNITY SERVICES (HRCS)...............................................................................................................................104
HUMANRESOURCES................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................114
INFORMATIONTECHNOLOGY (IT) .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 118
LANSINGPUBLIC MEDIA CENTER (LPMC)...........................................................................................................................................................................121
OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY (OCA) .................................................................................................................................................................................. 124
PARKS & RECREATION ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 128
POLICE ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 142
PUBLICSERVICE ..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................167
TREASURY.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 192
CITY AFFILIATES
LANSING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION 194
DOWNTOWNLANSING, INC (DLI)...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 200
LANSING ENTERTAINMENT & PUBLIC FACILITIES AUTHORITY (LEFPA)...................................................................... 204
LEARN MORE ABOUT DEPARTMENTS ON THE CITY OF LANSING'S WEBSITE AT:
LANSINGMI.GOU
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FROM THE MAYOR
Dear Lansing Residents,
Serving as mayor of the City of Lansing is an incredible honor and privilege. I am proud of
the work that my administration is doing to ensure Lansing continues to grow and thrive.
From Assessing to Treasury,and every department in between, our workers are the
backbone of this city and I thank our staff for their tireless hard work. People often ask me
why I say that"Lansing's time is now"so often. It's because I am so optimistic for Lansing's
future and everything we are working on to make our city grow.We have a record amount
of investment happening in our city right now: over a billion dollars in new housing,job
growth, infrastructure,and city services projects are being put to work here.
Lansing, like so many cities,was hit hard by the pandemic and its lingering effects. But,
thanks to the partnerships and relationships my administration and I have built,we are
moving ahead into a more vibrant future.Our landscape will look different in two years as
we make progress on so many of the incredible initiatives now underway. Economic
development, housing,and growth remain top priorities for every area of Lansing. I am
proud of the work we are doing to attract businesses, new jobs, create housing for all,and
grow Lansing with an eye to the future.
This report outlines how our departments directly touch the lives of Lansing residents in
impactful ways, including Parks & Recreation, Human Relations & Community Services,
Public Service, Police, Fire,and Neighborhoods,Arts, & Citizen Engagement.
This is why I believe that Lansing's time is now.We face challenges head on and move
forward with a vision and plans for our future.Together,we're building a thriving city in
which businesses create jobs, residents of all incomes can live in new or rehabilitated
housing,and people enjoy living, raising a family,and retiring. I am eager to continue the
work of making Lansing an unparalleled place to live,work, raise a family,and retire. I
welcome all who share my vision for Lansing to join in.
Andy Schor,Mayor
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ASSESSING
JENNIFER CZEISZPERGER, MMAO, DIRECTOR
The Assessing Department is responsible for the annual valuation and assessment of all
real and personal property located within the City of Lansing. Each year,the Assessing
Department prepares and certifies the ad valorem (according to value) assessment roll and
the special acts (incentives) assessment rolls in accordance with the Compiled Laws of the
State of Michigan.
The City of Lansing has 40,201 real property parcels, 1,870 exempt properties,and 3,312
personal property parcels on the 2024 assessment roll.The total parcel count is 45,383.
The composition of ad valorem property count is as follows:
Agricultural Less than 1% (1 parcel)
Commercial 6%
Industrial 1%
Residential 82
Personal Property 7%
Exempt Property 4%
City of Lansing Parcel Type Percentages
■Agricultural
■Commercial
■Industrial
Residential
Personal
■Exempt
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Industrial Facilities certificates, Neighborhood Enterprise Zone certificates,and OPRA
certificates are valued and tracked.The Assessing Department is responsible for creating
invoices for Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) holders; tracking the Tax Increment Finance
Authority (TIFA), brownfield developments,and OPRA accounts; and providing data for the
invoices for the Principal Shopping District.This group also completes Industrial Facilities
Act and Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Act (OPRA) reports for State of Michigan
compliance.There are 581 parcels on the special acts roll.The composition of the parcel
count is as follows:
• 336 county land bank sale properties
• 42 county land bank sale brownfield properties 17 P.A. 328 accounts
• 28 Neighborhood Enterprise Zone properties 16 Obsolete Property Rehab
properties
• 8 Industrial Facilities exemptions
• 6 Renaissance Zone properties
• 35 P I LOTS
The department also tracks 49 Tax Capture Districts (30 brownfields,a SmartZone,6 TIFAs,
4 corridors and 3 Principal Shopping Districts).
The total assessed value of the ad valorem (according to value) and special acts (tax
incentives) rolls was $4,023,279,500.The total combined taxable value of the ad valorem
and special acts parcels was $3,156,290,887 for tax year 2024.The total 2024 taxable
value (ad valorem and special acts) increased almost 10% from 2023.
The composition of total assessed value of the ad valorem properties is as follows:
Agricultural Less than 1%
Commercial 30%
Industrial 6%
Residential 55
Personal Property 6%
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City of Lansing Percentage of Assesed Value
by Property Type
Mr
I � ■Agricultural
■Commercial
■Industrial
Residential
Personal
■I FTs
L 6%0
Although residential property makes up 82% of total parcels, residential values are about
56% of the total taxable value.
The top ten taxpayers on the 2024 assessment roll are as follows:
Top Ten Taxpayers
2024 as of May 1,2024
Taxpayer Ad Valorem AV Ad Valorem TV Special Acts TV 50%? Total Eq.TV %of Total TV
Consumer's Energy $ 104,802,800 $ 101,879,232 $ 101,879,232 3.64%Utility
Ultium Cells,LLC $ - $ 84,869,900 $ 84,869,900 3.03%Manufacturing Ren Zone
General Motors,LLC $ 58,534,900 $ 38,271,253 $ 9,686,200 $ 9,325,470 $ 47,596,723 1.70%Manufacturing
Jackson Nat'l Life $ 60,408,900 $ 41,415,015 $ 41,415,015 1.48%Office Headquarters
Accident Fund $ 28,760,100 $ 28,760,100 $ 28,760,100 1.03%Office Headquarters
GS Skyvue Property Owner Li 26,804,600 $ 26,804,600 $ 26,804,600 0.96%Apts(Student Housing)
USSH MSU Propco,LLC $ 24,677,100 $ 22,466,949 $ 22,466,949 0.80%Apts(Student Housing)
General Motors Co. $ 21,145,500 $ 19,322,817 $ 19,322,817 0.69%Manufacturing
Red Cedar Hotel Holdings LLC $ 17,058,000 $ 16,933,295 $ 16,933,285 0.60%Hotel
Lansing Retail Center LLC $ 21,654,600 $ 14,613,609 $ 14,613,609 0.52%Retail(Frandor)
14.45%
Totals for City $ 3,554,697,152 $2,800,610,224
A brief history of assessed and taxable values is shown below. Growth in both assessed and
taxable values has reached levels that have far surpassed pre-recession levels.
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City of Lansing Historic SEV and TV 2003 thru 2024
4,400,000,000
3,900,000,000
3,400,000,000
2,900,000,000
2,400,000,000
1,900,000,000
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
Year SEV —TV
The Assessing Department is responsible for Listing the legal descriptions for almost
45,000 properties.The department must determine the value of more than 45,000 real and
personal property parcels,as well as determine the correct capped and taxable value for
these properties for the annual tax rolls. Property information must be confirmed and
updated. Building permits must be monitored and properties must be inspected for new
construction or demolition.The Assessor's Office visited almost 4,000 properties during
2024.The purpose of these visits was to follow up on building permits and/or update
property information by updating the property photograph.
The department must maintain ownership information,track transfers of ownership,
Principal Residence information,veterans'exemptions,general property tax exemptions,
and personal property exemptions.Almost 4,000 ownership documents were entered and
analyzed for transfer of ownership.Approximately 2,400 transfers of ownership were
processed. Principal Residence exemption requests were also processed with these
transfers.
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Sales volume has decreased from 2023; average sale price is continuing to increase.'
Conventional Sales
Year Number of Sales Average Sale Price Median Sale Price
2016 1147 92475 83000
2017 1474 94352 86000
2018 1434 98482 89000
2019 1815 103260 93500
2020 1838 112313 102000
2021 2245 117332 112000
2022 2247 120900 110000
2023 1501 132800 120000
2024 1213 145260 134000
Land Contract Sales
Year Number of Sales Average Sale Price Median Sale Price
2016 106 55639 50000
2017 104 54609 50000
2018 83 51643 51000
2019 85 57225 50000
2020 86 60699 50000
2021 66 74500 75000
2022 71 82400 72000
2023 59 84900 78000
20241 531 1189001 95000
' Many things can affect the statistics, including how many entry level properties
are included in the sales and how much of the high end of the market is selling.
7
City of Lansing Average Residential Sale Volume & Price
2,500 $160,000
$140,000
2,000
$120,000
E 1,500 $100,000 >
j $80,000
ro v a
in 1,000 v
$60,000 ru
V)
$40,000
500 —
$20,000
Year 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Number of Sales Average Sale Price
Land Contract sales are excluded from the data.The Assessing Department handles all
Michigan Tax Tribunal appeals until they reach the point of a full Tribunal trial.The
department has 15 Full Tribunal appeals currently.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
The department continues to refine and document uniform operating procedures.
During 2024,the department has been working to get fully staffed with full-time
employees. This has been achieved through eliminating all but one contract residential
appraiser and hiring full time employees.This year we have hired two full-time commercial
appraisers and created apprentice positions which will allow us to promote and train from
within our existing staff. Although we are not fully staffed at this time,we are hopeful that
all positions will be filled within this upcoming year. Being fully staffed will allow us to
ensure that all records are up to date and proper time is dedicated to determining correct
assessments.
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DEPARTMENT OF NEIGHBORHOODS,
ARTS & CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT
DELISA FOUNTAIN, DIRECTOR
The Department of Neighborhoods,Arts and Citizen Engagement (DNACE)'s role in the city
is to support neighborhoods by convening community dialogues, delivering capacity
building trainings, and connecting civic organizations to resources.The DNACE also
facilitates the creation of civic organizations and helps them build capacity so that they
can advocate for the changes and developments they wish to see in their neighborhoods.
DeLisa Fountain
DIRECTOR
NEIGHBORHOODS,
NEIGHBORHOODCITIZENS ENGAGEMENT
Robin
King
RESOURCE
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Brammer
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Arts&Culture Board
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ADVANCING PEDIJU
NEIGHBORHOOD ADVISORY BOARD
The Mayor's Neighborhood Advisory Board (NAB) is a collective of individuals representing
each ward, dedicated to providing invaluable support and guidance to neighborhoods and
organizations seeking grant opportunities.
Tirstan Walters Ward 1
Brian Baer Ward 1
MaryBeth Van Horn Ward 1
Florence (Flo) Baerren Ward 2
Pending Appointment (as of 12/2024) Ward 2
Pending Appointment (as of 12/2024) Ward 2
Courtney Cole Ward 3
Pending Appointment (as of 8/2024) Ward 3
Matthias Bell Ward 4
Pending Appointment (as of 12/2024) Ward 4
CITY LEADERSHIP CASE STUDY
The Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative, housed at the Bloomberg Center for
Cities at Harvard University, is a partnership between the Harvard Kennedy School, Harvard
Business School,and Bloomberg Philanthropies. Its mission is to empower mayors and
senior city officials to address complex urban challenges and enhance the quality of life for
their residents.
The Initiative fosters innovative solutions by advancing research and developing new
curricula and teaching tools designed to tackle real-world issues. It engages Harvard
graduate students in research and fieldwork, simultaneously supporting today's city leaders
and cultivating the next generation of urban innovators.Through teaching, research,and
the creation of practical materials,the Initiative helps city leaders improve government
performance and address critical social challenges.
A conversation about the formation of DNACE evolved into a City Leadership Case Study,
published by Bloomberg Harvard as part of its City Leadership Initiative.Titled Operation
Pufferfish: Building and Sustaining a Department of Neighborhoods and Citizen
Engagement,the case study was initially published in 2023,with an epilogue released in
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2024. Lansing was one of three cities highlighted in this impactful series. For more
information please visit: https://cities.harvard.edu/
STAFF DEVELOPMENT AND TRAINING
• National League of Cities (NLC) Conference
• Regional Housing Partnership Work Session
• CS 311 Week (May)
• Thriving Communities Program
• Invest Health 4.0
• Equity Core Team Training
• IRRC Operations Work Group
BOARDS AND SERVICE COMMITTEES
• Advance Peace Lansing/Ingham Support and Stakeholders Teams
• BWL Customer Assistance Coalition
• BWL General Manager Roundtable
• CapCAN Board of Directors
• CED Network (CEDAM)
• City of Lansing Equity Core Team
• City of Lansing Improvement Program: Design Committee
• Community Area Community Services Board
• DOT:Thriving Communities Program
• GROW Lansing
• Gun Violence Task Force - City of Lansing
• Health Fair/5K Walk/Run Committee
• Invest Health 4.0 Committee
• IRRC Operations Workgroup Committee
• Juneteenth Celebration Committee
• Lansing Empowerment Network
• MiWorks Administrative Board
• MiWorks Administrative Executive Board
• National Offices of Violence Prevention Network
• Power of We Consortium
• Property Enforcement Team - City of Lansing
• United Way of South-Central Michigan
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INVEST HEALTH 4.0:
Lansing's Invest Health initiative rests upon three pillars: health, housing,and fostering a
strong community narrative. Our focus on health encompasses both indoor and outdoor air
quality,the provision of quality green spaces, and ensuring resident access to healthcare,
fresh food,and reliable transportation.
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In terms of housing,the focus is affordability, investment in existing and new stock,and
how housing can be a tool to create opportunities for people. Lansing as a region is
working to align its housing goals within the Statewide housing plan and looks to share
how initiatives such as the housing trust fund,the emerging developer program,and the
tax increment financing tool for workforce housing is being used to create more housing
opportunities in the region and state.The plan works to align the cost of housing with the
incomes of the region. This is done through a wholistic approach of integrating policy,
technology,and workforce development to create new systems of how communities
evolve. The evolution being aligned to create better experiences for people.
Understanding how the community became what it is today, celebrating the heritage and
the people who live within it,and having a vision for where the community wants to be in
the future is the most important element of creating healthy vibrant communities.Telling
the story creates the connections between people within a community and space that
facilitates their experience. A common bond around a vision for the future, built from the
stories of past. This engagement fosters empathy and understanding between people. It
also creates hope that the future will offer a better tomorrow,that tomorrow an outcome of
the connections fostered from strong collaborations.
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The Invest Health Team includes DNACE Director, COL Councilman Hussain, Swag Executive
Director, Local Developer, RSVP Executive Director, Ingham County Health Department,and
Michigan State University.The team attended a convening in Napa CA with a focus on
Housing and Climate change.The Lansing team also presented the above-mentioned work
plan for feedback from the attending cities.
BUILDING NEIGHBORHOODS
NEIGHBORHOOD GRANTS PROGRAM
The neighborhood grants program serves as a crucial tool for empowering groups to secure
funding for a diverse range of projects, events, and functions, ultimately enriching their
respective areas and fostering positive community engagement.The flexibility of fund
utilization is boundless, provided applicants adhere to the straightforward guidelines
outlined in the application process. Upon project completion, a mandatory"Final Report" is
required, detailing the allocation of funds, event specifics,attendance figures, and the
project's impact on the neighborhood.This reporting mechanism is essential to track fund
utilization and assess the overall effectiveness of each project, ensuring that the allocated
resources contribute meaningfully to the community.
2023/2024 Neighborhood Grant Program
The Department of ° • . .
Neighborhoods,Arts and Citizen 2024 I 1 ` . I
Engagement provides the staff NEIGHBORHOOD
support and administrative GRANTS
oversight for the Neighborhood
Grant Dollars Per Ward
Grant Program. Funding decisions Ward 1: $28,333.84
for the Neighborhood Grants are 0Ward2: $21,325.40
made through the citizen Mayor's • Ward3: $50,527.27
Neighborhood Advisory Board. 0 Ward4: $44,554.50
The board reviews all
applications and through several . _ . .
rounds of deliberation presents a
funding recommendation to the mayor.The DNACE administers the entire process of
applications and funds accounting. In sum, $144,740.23 was funded in 2024 to different
projects designed and executed by civic organizations.
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Neighborhood Grants: Funded Projects
Word 1
Project Name Description
Allen Neighborhood Center Celebrating the Eastside: Block Party
Capital City Family BMX Public Bike Repair Work Stand
Capital City Family BMX CCFBMX Viewing Deck/Platform
Eastside Community Action Center ECAC Community Garden
Neighborhood Violence Prevention
Eastside Neighborhood Organization Eastside Summer Fest
Fabulous Acres Neighborhood Association Neighborhood Association Block Party
Holmes Street School Community Food Pantry Expansion & Rebuild + Library
Renovation Funding Application:
Leisure Services Board eSports Game Rooms
Old Town Commercial Association Rock-Solid Waste Management: Concrete Bins
Old Town Merry Makeover
Pedestrian Crosswalk Painting Group Pedestrian Crosswalk Painting
Potter Park Zoological Society Reading on the River Trail- Potter Park
Prospect PLACE Neighborhood Summer Art Celebration
Women's Center of Greater Lansing Hygiene Pantry
Word 2
Project Name Description
Cedarbrook Neighborhood Watch 330 Cedarbrook Orchard Additions and Upgrades
DOGIPOT waste station installed in Poxson Park
Friends of Lansing's Historic Cemeteries Signage
Hard Drives
Friends of Sycamore Park Sign For Neighborhood
Military Order of the Purple Heart Capital
Little Arlington Project
City Chapter 37
Neighbors of Scott Woods Spring Neighborhood Weenie Roast
Grills for Scott Woods Park
The Village Lansing 4th Annual Open House Celebration
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Word 3
Project Name Description
Churchill Downs Community Association Annual Picnic
Churchill Downs Foot Derby
Colonial Townhouses Cooperative Neighborhood Picnic
Grassroots Giving Empow-HER Spring Showcase
Equity Empire: Building Wealth in the Black
Community
Highlands Cooperative Doggie Waste Stations
Movie Night Extravaganza
Lansing Eaton Neighborhood Organization Solar Light replacement
(LENO)
Lansing Veterans Council Ceremonial Wreaths
South Side Community Coalition Garden Project
South Side Show Case
Southwest Action Group Summer Movies in The Park
3 versus 3 Hoopfest
Little Free Libraries
Beacon Bailers- Soccer Program at Beacon Park
Holiday in the Square
Community Clean Up (Spring and Fall)
Taste Of Southwest Lansing (Backyard BBOJ
The South Side Community Coalition Tables/Chairs
Hoop House Workspace
Kitchen equipment
Village Townhouses Cooperative Dog Waste Dispensers
Movie Night Under the Stars
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Word 4
Project Name Description
Casa de Rosado Galeria & Cultural Center Hispanic Heritage Month
Lansing's 28th Dia de Los Muertos Celebration
Colonial Village Neighborhood Association Colonial Village Block Party
2
Downtown Lansing Inc. Summer Music Series
Grassroots Giving Equity Exposed Mixer: Celebrating Lansing's
Black-Owned Businesses
Grassroots Giving Juggling Acts:A Working Mom's Mother's Day
Celebration
Old Oakland Neighborhood Association OONA Garden Beautification and Growth
(OONA) DogiPot Station for Dunnebacke Park
Old Town Commercial Association Rock-Solid Waste Management: Introducing
Concrete Bins to Old Town (Phase II)
Tecumseh River Neighborhood Watch 773 Communication Between Neighbors and Social
Events
Westside Neighborhood Association Summer Picnic
Neighborhood Communications
Bulk Trash Pickup
Woven Vessels International Ministry Lansing Drone Youth Camp - Stem Reimagined
Mini Grants
Ward 2024 ` "
25%
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Ward% MINI GRANTS: $200
31.3%
• Ward 1
• Ward 2
Ward 3 • Ward 3
21.9%
• Ward 4
Ward 2
21.9%
x : ■ x
x x x x
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Neighborhood associations, neighborhood watches,and civic organizations received Mini
Grants. In sum, $6,800.00 was funded in 2024 to different Mini Grants projects designed
and executed by civic organizations and neighborhood watches.
The Mini Grants allow for neighborhoods to provide for small events such as neighborhood
picnics,garage sales and holiday cookouts. Neighborhood associations, neighborhood
watches and civic organizations all apply for these grants.
Mini Grants: Funded Projects
Word 1
• Capital City Family BMX • Friends of Bancroft Park
• Eastside Community Action Center • Holmes Street School Community
• Eastside Neighborhood Organization • Pedestrian Crosswalk Painting Group
• Foster Farm • Potter Walsh Neighborhood Association
• Frandora Hills Neighborhood • Prospect P.L.A.C.E. Neighborhood
Organization
Word 2
• Neighbors of Scott Woods • Cedarbrook Neighborhood Watch
• Loaves and Fishes Ministries • Bluebell Neighborhood Watch
• Friends of Sycamore Park • Neighborhood Watch Advisory Board
• Friends of Lansing's Historic
Cemeteries
Ward 3
• Churchill Downs Neighborhood LEND-Lansing Eaton Neighborhood
Organization Organization
• Clayborn Road Neighborhood Watch Lewton Neighborhood Association
• Colonial Village Neighborhood Southwest Action Group (SWAG)
Association 2 • Southside Community Coalition
Word 4
• Elmhurst Neighborhood Watch 343 • Berten Street Neighborhood Watch
• Moores Park Neighborhood 418
Organization • Northwest Initiative
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• Tecumseh River Neighborhood Watch • Westside Neighborhood Association
773 • Willow Vista Apartments
• Walnut Neighborhood Association
Neighborhood Grants Overview
The Neighborhood Grants Program has continued to grow and positively impact the
Lansing community over the past four fiscal years.The program funds two key grant
categories.
• 2020/2021: 56 grants awarded (29 Neighborhood, 27 Mini) totaling $61,192.
• 2021/2022: 47 grants awarded (25 Neighborhood, 22 Mini) totaling $59,000.
• 2022/2023: 97 grants awarded (61 Neighborhood, 36 Mini) totaling $52,751 and
$8,000 respectively.
• 2023/2024: 95 grants awarded (62 Neighborhood, 33 Mini) totaling $51,222 and
$6,600 respectively.
The program's growth demonstrates a consistent commitment to supporting neighborhood
improvement projects, increasing community engagement,and fostering partnerships
across the city.
2024 NEIGHBORHOOD GRANTS DATA
Neighborhood Grants and Mini Grants Data
Fiscal Years:2020/2021 -2023/2024
$150,000 62 Grants
61 Grants
$100,000
•NEIGHBORHOOD 29 Grants 25 Grants
GRANT AMOUNTS UP $50,000
TO$5000
• $10,000
MINI GRANTS$200 136Grants
133 Grants
J21rants
$5.000
122Grants
$0
DNACE-City of Lansing. 2020/2021 > 2021/2022 > 2022/2023> 2023/2024
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SERVE LANSING & NEIGHBORHOOD BEAUTIFICATION
SERVE Lansing & Neighborhood Beautification Programs aim to clean up, beautify,and
enhance neighborhoods through citizen-led projects.These programs connect residents,
organizations, partners,and the City of Lansing to foster increased citizen engagement,
build community responsiveness and preparedness,and create a cleaner, more vibrant
community.
Lansing is home to dedicated citizens and community partners ready to collaborate and
take action. By working side by side,we can strengthen our neighborhoods,our city,and the
region.Through service,we can make our neighborhoods safer, healthier, more resilient,
and better connected.
SERVE Lansing:Volunteerism
SERVE Lansing is the volunteer arm of the Department of Neighborhoods,Arts & Citizen
Engagement, playing a vital role in strengthening neighborhoods and building a sense of
community.Through collective action,volunteers contribute not only their time and energy
but also foster values like collaboration,compassion,and shared responsibility.
By working together on projects such as beautifying public spaces, planting trees,and
supporting local initiatives,volunteers enhance the �� J
quality of life for all,creating safer, more welcoming,
and vibrant neighborhoods.These efforts cultivate
pride,foster connections,and deepen a sense of
ownership within the community. Ultimately, �A
volunteerism drives positive change,strengthens '
bonds among residents,and demonstrates that
through teamwork,we can create lasting 1
improvements in our neighborhoods for everyone.
2024 Departmental Volunteer Engagements
• Attending Neighborhood Meetings
• Arts Impact Application Meeting
• Eastside Community Action Center (ECAC): Community Cookout
• ECAC Community Backpack Giveaway
• IRRC Committee Volunteer
• Junior Achievement
• Mayor's Senior Fir
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• MI Works Youth Fair
• Southwest Fest
• United Way of South-Central MI Volunteer Fair
• US Department of Transportation: Thriving Communities Program
• Westside Neighborhood Association Neighborhood Clean-up
Neighborhoods in Bloom
Civic organizations had the opportunity to apply for and receive flower kits,which included
two bags of mulch and a
mix of annual and perennial
flowers. Organizations
requiring additional
resources were able to apply
for multiple kits. Each civic
= organization was
responsible for the care and
maintenance of the flowers
throughout the summer.All
flower kits and materials were delivered directly to participating neighborhoods.
• Since 2016, a total of 2,291 kits have been distributed citywide, resulting in 54,984
square feet of flowers planted and 4,332 bags of mulch used to beautify Lansing.
• 300 Bloom Kits were assembled by volunteers and delivered to 28 civic organizations
in partnership with the Ingham County Land Bank.
x x x x x
ll115 2024 x : x x x
5':6
Ward 1 NEIGHBORHOODS
3a.6% IN BLOOM
TOTAL OF 300 KITS OISTRIBUTEO
Ward 3 • Ward 1
30.8%
• Ward 2
• Ward 3
• Ward4
Ward 2
23.1%
x x x x x
x x x x x
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Word 1
• Allen Neighborhood Center • Holmes Street School Community
• Armory Alliance Neighborhood • Old Town Commercial Association
Watch • Potter-Walsh Neighborhood Association
• Foster Community Center • Prospect P.L.A.C.E. Neighborhood
• Foster Farm • Walnut Neighborhood Association
• Gier Community Center
Word 2
• Cedarbrook Neighborhood Watch • Greater Lansing Association of Realtors
• Friends of Lansing's Historic • Hunter Ridge
Cemeteries • Neighbors of Scott Woods
• Friends of Sycamore Park • Potter Park Zoological Society
Ward 3
• Alfreda Schmidt Southside • Lansing Eaton Neighborhood
Community Center Organization (LEND)
• Churchill Downs Community • Southwest Action Group (SWAG)
Association • The South Side Community Coalition
• Cub Scouts Family Pack 121
Ward 4
• Westside Neighborhood • Berten Street NW 418
Association • Cub Scouts Family Pack 121
• Friends of Durant Park • Downtown Lansing Inc.
Neighborhood Bulk Trash Clean Ups
Neighborhood clean-ups are community-driven events primarily focused on bulk trash
collection.This program is exclusively available to areas within the City of Lansing that
qualify for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding. DNACE expanded the
program by allowing NAB grants to pay for non-CDBG eligible areas.
• Since Fiscal Year 2019,a total of 1,368 cubic yards of bulk trash has been collected.
• DNACE partners with Granger Truck to provide a truck,driver,and loading staff for
bulk trash removal.
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Responsibilities of Selected Neighborhoods:
• Recruit volunteers.
• Promote the event by distributing flyers, posting on social media,and engaging
residents directly.
• Designate a coordinator to work with the department to organize the clean-up.
Bulk trash clean-ups bring neighbors together by encouraging collaboration and
communication during event promotion and execution. Each clean-up is unique to its
neighborhood,and the amount of trash collected varies based on the specific needs of the
area.The total amount of trash removed is recorded for each participating neighborhood.
Participating Neighborhoods
Organization Trash Removed
Armory Alliance Neighborhood Watch 15 yards
Churchill Downs Community Association 54 yards
Eastside Neighborhood 15 yards
Fabulous Acres Neighborhood 45 yards
Foster Farm See Foster Below
Foster Your Neighborhood & Foster Farm 30 yards
Frandora Hills Neighborhood Association 15 yards
Holmes Street School Community 29 yards
Lansing Eaton Neighborhood Organization (LEND) 25 yards
Moores Park Neighborhood Organization 20 yards
Northtown Neighborhood Association 31 yards
Potter Walsh Neighborhood Association 96 yards
Prospect PLACE 27 yards
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Walnut Neighborhood Organization Total of 424 yards 20 yards
Neighborhood bulk trash clean-ups in 2024 resulted in the collection of a total of 424
cubic yards of bulk trash.To put this into perspective,that's equivalent to filling more than
2 football fields with trash,assuming each field is covered to a depth of one yard.This
impressive effort reflects the dedication of Lansing's neighborhoods in keeping their
communities clean and vibrant.
Resident Small Cleanups
The Residential Small Clean-Ups program supports volunteer groups and individual
residents interested in organizing small-scale clean-up efforts.These initiatives build
momentum leading up to the LOVE (Local Organization and Volunteer Excellence) Lansing
Weekend,taking place May 15-19,2024.
DNACE collaborates with citizen volunteers and the City of Lansing Public Service
Department to provide essential supplies, including trash bags,work gloves,and pickers.
These clean-ups are community-led and powered by residents committed to enhancing
their neighborhoods.
Key Efforts Include:
• Old Town Commercial Association: Partnered with Public Service to provide a
dumpster,trash bags, gloves, and leaf bags for a weekend clean-up initiative.
• Southwest Acton Group (SWAG): Partnered with Southside Community Coalition to
clean up the Holmes Street and Pleasant Grove Neighborhood of Focus area.
Additionally, DNACE provided supplies to support individual neighbors and small groups
tackling tasks like drain and basin clearing,as well as neighborhood-led clean-up efforts.
These collaborations demonstrate the power of volunteerism in keeping Lansing's
communities clean,safe,and vibrant.
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Walking Wednesdays
Walking Wednesday is an inclusive community
initiative, inviting residents, City officials, City
Council members, Lansing Police Officers,and `
anyone interested to explore neighborhood _
assets and areas of improvement or interest a
through a collective walk.Typically scheduled —�-
on Wednesdays during spring, summer,or
early fall,these events provide opportunities
to connect with neighbors and gain insights
into the unique features of each
neighborhood.We encourage everyone to join us this Spring as we embark on enjoyable
walks through Lansing neighborhoods,fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation
for our diverse communities.This year,our visits included the Walnut Neighborhood, Old
Town Commercial Association,and Friends of Bancroft Park enhancing our collective
exploration of Lansing's vibrant neighborhoods.
Participating Neighborhoods
• Walnut Neighborhood Organization Old Town Commercial Association
• Friends of Bancroft Park
Crosswalk Art
Staff worked with Public Service Department who collaborated with Bloomberg
Philanthropies:The Asphalt Art Initiative,a grant program aimed at funding visual art
projects on roadways, pedestrian spaces, and public infrastructure within cities.This year,
our department partnered with neighborhood groups to bring this initiative to life.The
projects manifested as painted murals,aligning with primary goals that include enhancing
streets and pedestrian safety, revitalizing and activating underutilized public spaces,and
fostering collaboration and civic engagement within local communities. Inspired by these
projects, in September,our department issued three civic organizations completed
neighborhood grants supporting crosswalk art projects.
Participating Neighborhoods
• Holmes Street School Community Cedarbrook Neighborhood
• Churchill Downs Community
Association
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GROW Lansing
The GROW Lansing Program is a mini-grant
initiative launched by the City of Lansing with
funding from the U.S. Conference of Mayors'
Childhood Obesity Prevention and Environmental
Health and Sustainability Grant. Its goal is to
support the creation and enhancement of
community gardens, promoting sustainable land
use and food security while addressing the needs
of marginalized citizens with limited resources.
Since its inception, GROW Lansing has provided $146,250 in grants to support 28
different projects.These funds have helped gardens across Lansing with vital
infrastructure,such as fencing,supplies,and accessibility improvements.The program, in
partnership with the Departments of Public Service and Neighborhoods,Arts,and Citizen
Engagement,aims to create lasting community impact by fostering collaboration and
sustainability through shared gardening spaces.
Participating Gardens
• Allen Neighborhood Center • Lil Eden
• Armory Garden • Magnolia Avenue Farms
• Build2 Grow • Magnolia Blooms Therapeutic Micro Farm
• Community Orchard • Michigan Aynoka Project
• Eastside Community Action Center • Mount Hope Church Community Garden
• ECAC Community Garden • Ms. Betty's Greenhouse
• First Presbyterian Church Community • MSU Sunshine Garden
Garden • Nurture &Thrive: Empowering Women
• Galilee Baptist Church Garden Through Gardening
• Garden of Grace • Orchard Court Community Garden
• Grace Lutheran Community Garden • Paradise Community Garden
Rebuild Project • SORA Gardens Start Up
• Greater Growth Garden • St Mike's Community Garden -Garden
• Knollwood Gardens-Cement Walking Perimeter Fencing Project
Path • St. Casimir Moores Park
• Lansing School District Student • Tender Heart Gardens
Development Garden • UU Community Garden
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• Walnut Neighborhood Garden
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ARTS
ARTS & CULTURE BOARD
Clara Martinez Ward 1
Kevin Bonds Ward 2
Charles Calati Ward 4
Stephanie Palagyi Ward 4
Shirley Carter-Powell At Large
Diane Gardin At Large
Mary Toshach At Large
Alyssa Turesak At Large
The Arts and Culture Board is composed of citizens of the City of Lansing appointed by the
Mayor and confirmed by City Council. The goal of the Arts and Culture Board is to improve
internal processes and enhance art and cultural experiences in the City of Lansing. The
Board shall perform its function in accordance with provisions of Section 5-106 of the
Lansing City Charter. All meetings of the Arts and Culture Board shall be open to the
public.
The Arts & Culture Board is the body established by the City of Lansing to give input and
review artistic projects proposed in the City of Lansing. The board meets monthly for all
reviews.
The Arts & Culture Board was budgeted $20,000 and look forward to bringing art into one
or more of the Neighborhoods of Focus. The Neighborhoods of Focus are areas that have
not had as strong a focus on artistic projects.The grant process will open in January 2025.
There are three Neighborhoods of Focus:
• Willow/Walnut/Comstock Neighborhoods
• Baker Donora Neighborhood
• Holmes & Pleasant Grove Area
CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT
Events and forums designed by the department and delivered in the community to increase
community involvement and communicate with citizens. Examples include LOVE Lansing,
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Walking Wednesdays, Housing and Neighborhood Resource Summits,and the Citizens
Academy.
Citizen Engagement is also achieved through regular interactions with our Neighborhood
Associations, Neighborhood Watches and Civic Organizations.
NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATIONS
Neighborhood Organizations are the life blood of our department. As our name suggests,
Neighborhoods are our priority. We support neighborhood organizations through grants,
one on one support,environmental support,and fostering of relationships. Currently,there
are 62 neighborhood organizations/civic organizations registered with our department.
Three new neighborhood organizations have registered this year:
• Genesee Neighborhood
• Hunters Ridge Neighborhood
• Cherry Hill Neighborhood
The link to register as a Neighborhood Organization/Civic Organization is:
https://mi-Lansing-cityofLansing.app.transform.civicptus.com/forms/23520.
CITY OF LANSING NEWSLETTER
Every Friday,the Neighborhood News is delivered to over 2,000 subscribers,offering
comprehensive updates on neighborhood activities and events. Each week, relevant
information is carefully curated from City of Lansing leadership,departments,and
community partners. Recently,the formatting of the newsletter has been updated to
enhance readability and accessibility.The updates are now formatted for easy sharing
across multiple platforms, including neighborhood Facebook pages, Nextdoor,email,and
text messages.
2024 LANSING CITIZENS ACADEMY
The 2024 Lansing Citizens Academy is an 11-week, civic-focused course designed to
deepen residents' understanding of city government, budgeting processes,and decision-
making.The program offers participants an immersive experience,with 19 residents
selected to join in 2024.These participants had the opportunity to interact with City
Leaders and engage directly in local governance. On average, participants attended 9 out of
the 11 weeks.
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Departments like Parks & Recreation, Public Service,and the City Clerk's Office/Elections
Unit provided limited facility tours to offer a well-rounded view of city operations.A special
highlight of the academy was the Board of Water and Light's John F. Dye Water
Conditioning Plant Tour,which was made available to both current participants and alumni.
The program's impact is evident,with three
alumni joining City of Lansing Boards or
Commissions,and four pursuing elected
j office roles. Notably, an alum was elected to
City Council in Fall 2021, and another alum
became the Director of Economic
a
Development & Planning as of December
2023.These examples highlight the long-
Lasting influence of the Academy on civic
engagement and leadership development.
The application process for the 2025 Citizens Academy will open in May 2025.
Here are a few quotes from our participants:
• "I hope to get more experience now that I am becoming a neighborhood leader."—
Nicklas Zande
• "I thought this would be a wonderful opportunity to learn about my city and see if
there are ways, I can become more involved."— Cheryl Celestine
• "We work closely with the city in many areas,so it's crucial for us to get involved,
Learn more about the workings of the city,and bring resources to our neighborhood."
—Jay & Claire West
COMMUNITY BUDGET NIGHTS
Community Budget Discussions are vital opportunities for Lansing residents to engage with
City services, understand budget allocation processes,and shape their ideal City budget.
These sessions allow participants to discuss neighborhood concerns,explore City services
and budgets,and interact directly with Mayor Schor on diverse funding strategies for public
safety, parks, infrastructure,and community development.They aim to enhance residents'
understanding of government budget complexities while fostering productive community
interaction.
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A key component of these discussions is the Community Budget Survey.This survey allows
residents to provide detailed feedback on topics such as parks and recreation,tree health
and canopy,stump grinding, landlord and renters' rights,available grants, sustainability
initiatives,and crime. By participating, residents contribute valuable insights that help
shape Lansing's fiscal priorities and strengthen community engagement.
TRUNK OR TREAT ENGAGEMENTS
The City of Lansing Clerks Office Souls to the Polls celebrated Halloween with a Drive-Thru
Trunk or Treat at the Lansing City Clerks Election Unit. Our dedicated staff actively
participated in the event,joyfully serving over 500 trick-or-treaters.
NEIGHBORHOOD RESOURCE SUMMITS
Neighborhood Resource Summits, initiated by neighborhood groups,serve as direct access
points for citizens to engage with City and community resources.This year, our department
successfully hosted two summits—one at the Alfreda Schmidt Community Center on the
southside and another at the westside's Letts Community Center. Summit partners included
various civic and community organizations and entities such as:
II ��
..0
• Habitat for Humanity
• Capital Area Housing Partnership
• Board Water and Light
• Capital Area Transportation Authority
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• Capital Area Community Services
• Community Mental Health
• Treatment Foster Care Oregon
• Lansing Police Department
• Lansing Fire Department
• Capital Area District Libraries
• City Clerk's Office
• City of Lansing Human Resources
• Economic Planning and Development Office
The event featured complimentary pizza,and local businesses generously contributed raffle
items.
LOVE LANSING CELEBRATION
Neighborhoods throughout Lansing came
together for the annual LOVE Lansing
Celebration,an event dedicated to honoring
neighborhood leaders and recognizing their 'i
exceptional contributions to building vibrant, u
connected communities. tee_
In 2024,the celebration was held on June 20th
at Old Town's beautiful Copper Moon venue.
Guests enjoyed an evening of music by the Corzo
Effect,a talented local live band,and delicious food catered by Amy's Catering.
This year,the Department of Neighborhoods,Arts & Citizen Engagement partnered with
the Eastside Neighborhood Organization (ENO) and 15t Ward Councilman, Ryan Kost,to
present the prestigious Bea Christy Award,alongside other notable recognitions:
2024 Award Recipients:
• Isaac Franciso - Community Builder Award
• South West Action Group (SWAG) -
Neighborhood Impact Award
• Nicklas Zande - Emerging Leaders Award
• Nancy Mahlow- Bea Christy Award
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I
�q
_ Q
The LOVE Lansing Celebration
continues highlight individuals and
groups' incredible,tireless efforts to
make Lansing's neighborhoods safer,
stronger,and more vibrant. a
US DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION: THRIVING COMMUNITIES PROGRAM
The Thriving Communities Program provides customized technical assistance to under-
resourced and disadvantaged communities, enabling them to access historic infrastructure
investments and implement transformative projects.The City of Lansing was selected as
one of 64 communities nationwide to receive support through this program,ensuring fair
access to the unprecedented funding opportunities made available by the President's
Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).
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Lansing's Community Partners:
• Capital Area Housing Partnership (CAHP)
• Southside Community Coalition
• SWAG-South West Action Group
• Lansing Economic Development Corporation
• MLK Corridor Improvement Authority
Participation in the Thriving Communities Program has fostered new collaborations,
including partnerships with USDOT, MDOT,and the MLK Corridor Improvement Authority,
further expanding Lansing's ability to enhance infrastructure and community development
efforts.
517 DAY CELEBRATION
The 517 Day Celebration festivities were held at
Lansing Shuffle,featuring a lively lunchtime party — j
hosted by Genesis Terrell of 96.5 Radio Station.The -�
event showcased an incredible lineup of
performances, including Ouran Howell, lead singer f
of the Grammy-winning group Sounds of Blackness;
Local Lucas Holliday,a former contestant on NBC's
The Voice; and talented Gospel,Jazz,and R&B
singers local Candace Potts and local Maddie
Whitney.
Attendees enjoyed Lansing-themed trivia for giveaway items and were encouraged to wear
Lansing gear from MoneyBall for a chance to win a family pack of Lansing Lugnuts tickets
for the May 17th game.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
January Grant Learning Session
Breakfast & Budget: Schmidt Southside Community Center
Virtual Grants Chat
Rejuvenating South Lansing
Martin Luther King Luncheon
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IRRC Operations Workshop
Lansing SAVE Co-Chair Meeting
Let's Garden Lansing Winter
Neighborhood Organizations Mapping
Westside Neighborhood Association Annual Meeting
Rejuvenation South Lansing
NAACP
February Churchill Downs Neighborhood Meeting
Grant Learning Session
Old Town Commercial Association Annual Meeting: UrbanBeat
Lansing Board of Water & Light General Managers Roundtable
Lansing Economic Club Luncheon
Lansing Empowerment Network Planning
MPHI Advance Peace Partners Meeting
Lansing SAVE Co-Chair Meeting
Potter Walsh Neighborhood Meeting
March Community Forum on Gun Violence Prevention with MPHI, Advance
Peace and NAACP
Black Leadership Brunch
Corridor/ Neighborhood Directors Meet Up
Lansing Economic Development Improvement
Pastor Salute
Ramadan Dinner
State of the City
State of Women Townhall w/Senator Sarah Anthony
Youth Grant Inquiry and Community Research Conversation
Safe Streets and Roads for All Program Meeting
UWSCMi Volunteer of the Year Review Meeting
April Income Tax Outreach
Junior Achievement Career Speaker at Sexton High School
Neighborhood Resource Summit: Schmidt Southside Community Center
Neighborhood Organization Meetings
Constituent Meetings
Know Your Rights Event
MSU UOE Strategic Plan Listening Session
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Neighborhood Advisory Board Grant Review
Lansing Economic Club and Lansing Promise Event
Lansing EDC Fa4ade Improvement
Lansing Listening Session- MiVTTP
LEN Video Viewing at Capital Area District Library
Press Conference- MSHDA at CAHP
May 5/17 Day Celebration at Lansing Shuffle
311's Two Year Anniversary
Greater Lansing Humanities, Arts, and Culture Communities Luncheon
Lansing School District- Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act:
Youth Blood Drive
311 Customer Service Excellence Week in Dallas, TX
June Arts Night Out
Juneteenth Celebration Parade
LOVE Lansing: Copper Moon
Northwest Initiative Resource Fair
Churchill Downs Neighborhood Picnic
Diversity Celebration
Juneteenth Parade & 5K Race
Wear Orange for Honoring Victims and Survivors of Gun Violence
Omaha Empowerment Network Conference
July Fire Station 2 Closure Community Campaign
South MLK Blvd. Community Engagement and Coordination Meeting
Walk In Truth Ministries- Summer Festival
Hunter Park Garden Presentation
Westside Neighborhood Association- Picnic
Walking Wednesday- Walnut Neighborhood
Walking Wednesday- Old Town Commercial Association
Bulk Trash: Holmes Street School Community
Bulk Trash: Foster Neighborhood Area
Bulk Trash: Potter Walsh Neighborhood
August CEDAM Connecting with Community Developers
Citizens Academy Session Launch
Bulk Trash: Churchill Down Community Association
Bulk Trash: Walnut Neighborhood Association
35
Bulk Trash:Armory Alliance Neighborhood Watch
Bulk Trash: Moores Park Neighborhood Organization
Bulk Trash: Frandora Hills Neighborhood Organization
Bulk Trash: Baker Donora Neighborhood
Bulk Trash: Prospect PLACE Neighborhood
Bulk Trash: Lansing Eaton Neighborhood Organization
Bulk Trash: Fabulous Acres Neighborhood Association
Mayor's Senior Fair
Summer Art Celebration: Hunter Park
Walking Wednesday: United Utilitarian Church
Annual Eastside Summer Festival
Union Missionary Baptist Church: Magic Johnson's Car Show
Churchill Downs Bulk Trash
Capital Area Michigan Works (CAMW)
Mayor's Senior Luncheon
Frances Park Neighborhood National Night Out
September Crosswalk Art: Climax and Pennsylvania
Crosswalk Art: Holmes Street
Hispanic Heritage Month Kickoff
Frandora Hills Neighborhood- Get Together
Young Voter Engagement Roundtable with Secretary Benson
MSU MARS Tech Hub Community Benefits
Lansing 360: First In-Person Meeting at Foster Community Center
UWSCMI -Volunteer Fair
"LANSING" Sign Reveal Event
Lansing Parks & Recreational Senior Picnic
South West Action Group's SW Fest
Lansing SAVE Annual Golf Outing
Neighborhood Watch Dinner
Neighborhood Resource Summit- Letts Community Center
Mikey 23 Foundation Dinner
BWL Community Resource Fair: Gier Community Center
SWAG Backyard BBO
NAACP Freedom Fund Dinner
October City of Lansing: Drive Thru Trunk or Treat
36
Bulk Trash: Eastside Trash Clean-Up
Bulk Trash: Northtown Neighborhood
Olive Burger Festival
HRCS- Housing Resource
Old Everett Neighborhood Association
Citizens Academy Graduation
November National League of Cities (NLC) Conference
Neighborhood Resource Summit: Letts Community Center
Regional Housing Partnership Work Session
SWAG- Holiday in the Square
WNA Holiday Party
December Churchill Downs Holiday Party
U.S. Conference of Mayors
OFFICE OF NEIGHBORHOOD SAFETY
During the FY25 budget sessions, Councilman Spadafore made the recommendation to
Mayor Schor to launch the Office of Neighborhood Safety within the Department of
Neighborhoods,Arts and Citizen Engagement.This office aligns with the gun violence
prevention and intervention work being done within the department. The JDO has been
submitted to HR for the new position within the department and the position is expected
to be filled in the first quarter of 2025.
ADVANCEPEACE
Monthly Advance Peace Partner meetings include City of Lansing, MPHI, Ingham County
Health Department,AP Field Coordinators and other community-based organizations.
LANSING EMPOWERMENT NETWORK
Since late 2023, DNACE Director served as a City of Lansing Liaison to the Lansing
Empowerment Network.This included weekly Lansing 360 meetings and weekly
stakeholder meetings to build capacity for the newly formed organization. Director was
involved with the strategy sessions, landscaping and planning for the Black leadership
brunch that took place March 2024 at Gregory's.
37
n¢x T
1�
In June DNACE Director Fountain along with Councilmember Brown, HRCS Director
Coleman, LPD Chief Backus and Faith-Based Initiative Manager Solis traveled along with
Lansing Empowerment Stakeholders to — —
Omaha, NE,for the 171h Annual Rebuilding
the Village Conference and to meet with
Omaha Empowerment Network Leaders.
This visit led to relationship building with
�9
the City of Lansing,City of Omaha and the .
:
Village Lansing.The Gun Violence Task =s
Force then recommended granting
$125,000 to build capacity within the
Lansing 360 Initiative and the Lansing
Empowerment Network,a community-based network of organizations modeled after the
Omaha Empowerment Network focusing on community driven-solutions. Key initiatives
focus on addressing gun violence and jobs for youth.
Lansing 360 Collaborative meetings address
_= gun violence with essential stakeholders
such as LPD, LFD, LSD,elected officials,
judges and community members.The
meetings take place every Wednesday from
12-1 p.m.with in-person meetings on the
second Wednesday of the month.
38
GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION COMMUNITY SAFETY FORUM 2024
The Gun Violence Prevention Community
Safety Forum was held at Tabernacle of
THE SPEAKER LINEUP
David on Saturday, March 2nd, 2024, drawing Mir
SPECIALGUEST
over 100 attendees.The event featured , RepElMs hotkin
Cofgresswoman khgan's 7th
Congressional District
special presentations from Senator-Elect '
Elissa Slotkin and Senator Sarah Anthony, .� KEYNOTE SPEAKER
ti DeVone Boggan
who also moderated a panel discussion. F°o�erB Chkf E.—I-OKcer
of Advance Peace
DeVone Boggan,founder and Chief Executive
Officer of Advance Peace, delivered a MODERATOR
Sarah Anthony
,,,.., ,', - e Mkhigan State SenMor
keynote presentation. 0�
GUEST APPEARANCE
Panelists included: Partners Include: Tamera Carter
AFlarge Countll MemEer
• Charles Richardson,Advance Peace ""'"' Cq n-9
Lansing MISTRESS OF CEREMONY
• DeLisa Fountain, WIIew City of Lansing RXN—ReLegrand
Reporter
Questions?Email:
• Rev. Dr. Stanley Parker, Eastside Chwks mkh.rd—cdMardAmphl.org
fill Chill civils411Pgmail.com
Community Action Center
• Kennedy Robertson, Student,Waverly High School
• Corey S. Clay,Jr.,Youth Minister
• Michael Lynn,The Village
• Myles Johnson, Ingham County Commissioner
NATIONAL OFFICES OF VIOLENCE PREVENTION NETWORK
The Offices of Violence Prevention Network hosted its Annual National Convening in Los
Angeles, CA, in September 2024,followed by the Midwest National Convening in
Indianapolis, IN, in October. Both events provided valuable networking opportunities,
39
connecting one federal office,five state offices, nine county offices,and 45 city offices
dedicated to violence prevention.
Focusing on institutionalization,training,assistance,and fostering growth,the network
supports member offices in setting collective goals,sharing insights,and accelerating
progress toward meaningful impact.At the Midwest convening, Director Fountain
participated in the "Youth in Action: Midwestern Dialogue on Building Peaceful
Communities" panel discussion alongside representatives from three other cities and youth
Leaders from Indianapolis.
ar
1
311 CALL CENTER
The City of Lansing's 311 Call Center started in 2021 and is now part of the Department of
Neighborhood,Arts and Citizen Engagement.Our 311 Center serves as a centralized hub for
citizens with non-emergent inquiries within the city, embodying the vision of the "One Call
to City Hall" Initiative.Through strategic partnerships with Dewpoint and Five9,we have
40
harnessed cutting-edge technology to meet the operational needs of this initiative. Our
collaborations go beyond technology,forming intentional partnerships with various
departments in the City of Lansing.
311 Call Center's goal is to make it simple for citizens to reach city services, help resident's
access records and accounts,all while embodying the idea of being a place where people
can get direct answers instead of just transferring calls. Our aim is to make things simple
and helpful for everyone in our community.
OPERATIONS
Staff
In our 311 Call Center,a dynamic team is in place to ensure seamless operations and
excellent service delivery. Our flexible work arrangements allow for the smooth transition
to remote work in cases of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances, ensuring
uninterrupted support to the community.
CaLL Center Manager
Our 311 Call Center Manager has extensive expertise in communications and telephone
procedures.This role is pivotal in ensuring seamless communication between the call
center and various departments,fostering smooth integration with our systems.
Managerial responsibilities extend to coordinating with new departments and maintaining
on-going partnerships.Additionally, overseeing the overall operation of the center and
implementing strategic initiatives to enhance efficiency and service quality.
Call Center Agents
The 311 Call Center is staffed by six dedicated agents who are focused on providing
exceptional customer service to the public. Each agent is responsible for handling non-
emergency inquiries with professionalism and efficiency.Their duties include addressing
public concerns, providing accurate information,and assisting callers in navigating city
services.These agents are well-versed in the procedures related to non-emergency services
and are equipped with the necessary skills to operate computer consoles and
communication systems effectively.
As an additional service,the 311 Call Center provides multi-lingual representative to
accommodate diverse language needs.Agents connect callers to outside resources by
collaborating with other programs,ensuring comprehensive support for the public.Their
41
commitment is to ensure that every interaction with the public reflects our dedication to
outstanding customer service.
The center also employs an escalation process for certain calls and requests that go
beyond the scope of agents'access within the City, providing in-depth assistance when
needed.Together, our team is dedicated to maintaining a high standard of service and
responsiveness to the needs of our community.
Software
311 Call Center employs the MS Dynamics CRM program for our case management and
case escalation procedures.This versatile program not only serves as an intake system for
our calls but also plays a crucial role in tracking and reporting.To enhance our reporting
capabilities,we integrate the Power Bi addon. Furthermore,this program seamlessly
incorporates the adapter for our Softphones, streamlining communication processes.
In addition to MS Dynamics CRM, 311 Call Center leverages various other tools such as
Bellefeuil Szur & Associates (BSA),CityWorks,City Tax,ASG.net,TAX.net, UB.net,among
others.These integrated systems collectively contribute to the efficiency of our operations,
allowing us to provide top-notch service and comprehensive support to the community.
PARTNERSHIPS
The rollout of 311 services is being implemented in phases through strategic
collaborations with various departments.These partnerships aim to broaden the scope of
services and improve our ability to address callers'questions and concerns effectively.
Currently,the following partnerships have been established:
• Public Service & Treasury: On May 11, 2022, 311 Lansing was launched in
partnership with the Public Service and Treasury Departments.
• City Clerk's Office & Department of Neighborhoods: On June 9, 2022, the City
Clerk's Office and the Department of Neighborhoods were integrated into 311
services.
• Human Relations and Community Services (HRCS): On January 4, 2024, 311
established a partnership with HRCS, integrating its services with the CRM system for
enhanced case management. This system enables full tracking of resident cases, from
initial creation and submission of documentation to monetary assistance provided.
Comprehensive reporting now highlights the volume and impact of HRCS's work in
supporting Lansing residents.
42
• Public Service — CART (Capital Area Recycling and Trash): Starting July 1, 2024, 311
began assisting CART with call screening to manage the high volume of inquiries,
adding over 500 calls daily to 311's workload. New training and expanded access to
CART systems have significantly improved call management, especially during
staffing challenges. Plans include broadening the scope of issues 311 Agents can
resolve, aiming for more first-call resolutions.
• Parks & Recreation: The Parks & Recreation Department is set to integrate with
311 services by early 2025.
• Economic Development & Planning: The Department of Economic Development
and Planning is also scheduled to partner with 311 in 2025.
EXPANDED REPORTING FOR DEPARTMENT PARTNERS
Through close collaboration,we have developed enhanced reporting tools for departments
seeking a deeper understanding of their workflow.These reports provide valuable insights,
including monthly intake data,the number of residents assisted, monetary value
distributed,and a detailed overview of all contact points and notes.This comprehensive
reporting supports the effective administration of funds and ensures residents receive the
assistance they need for a wide range of issues.
ENGAGE 311 CONFERENCE PRESENTATION
Both the 311 Manager and the Department
Director represented Lansing at the National _
Engage 311 Conference in Fort Worth,Texas.
This annual gathering brings together 311
programs from across the country to exchange
ideas, share best practices,and discuss _.
initiatives and objectives in their respective : �•
systems.
The 311 Manager delivered a presentation on Lansing's journey of building a 311 system
from the ground up, highlighting key successes and lessons learned along the way. Looking
ahead,the manager will serve on the National Engage 311 Committee in 2025,
contributing to the development of next year's conference program.
43
20
,/
The Department Director facilitated a panel discussion featuring representatives from both
newly established and long-standing 311 programs.This engaging dialogue offered
insights into the factors that drive 311's continued success and its value as a vital resource
for cities nationwide.
HOSTING 311 ENGAGE: CALL CENTER COLLABORATION AND INSIGHTS
DNACE hosted a collaborative event featuring call center teams from Lansing, Grand
Rapids,and Kalamazoo,focusing on enhancing customer service excellence and
interdepartmental collaboration.A group from Temple,Texas,currently establishing their
own call center,joined the event to gain insights and best practices.
Key Highlights:
• Grand Rapids: Hosted a personal tour led by Customer Service Manager Heather
Mikulas, showcasing their approaches and sharing documents detailing their
practices.
• Kalamazoo: Provided a guided tour with 311 Customer Service Manager Mimi Leake
and 311 Support Specialist Kate Blanzy, presenting their journey from a "Call Center
to Solution Center"and emphasizing impactful solutions over transactions.
• Lansing: Guided the Temple, Texas group on tours of Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids
while showcasing its own departmental onboarding presentation, emphasizing 311's
role in communication and departmental support.
The event provided valuable insights,strengthened partnerships,and supported the
Temple,TX,team as they prepare to launch their call center. DNACE remains committed to
fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among 311 call centers.
44
SUMMARY OF DEPARTMENTAL CALL VOLUMES [2022-2024]
The data highlights the number of calls handled by various departments over the past
three years,showing trends in service demand and departmental workload.
Key Observations:
Public Service experienced the largest growth, increasing from 2,444 calls in 2022
to 10,994 calls in 2024.
Treasury maintained high call volumes,with a steady rise from 4,461 calls in 2022
to 9,584 in 2024.
HRCS saw a significant surge in calls,jumping from 77 in 2022 to 3,055 in 2024.
• Clerk's Office more than doubled call volume,from 2,741 in 2022 to 4,132 in 2024.
• 311 Call Center consistently handled the highest volume, increasing from 6,698
calls in 2022 to 8,468 in 2024.
Other departments, such as City Council, Mayor's Office,and Parks & Recreation, also
showed incremental increases in call volumes, reflecting growing engagement and service
needs across various sectors.
Yearly Reports for Main Partners,2022-2024
Department 2022 2023 2024
1. Public Service 2444 4241 10994
2. Treasury 4461 9380 9584
3. Clerks 2741 2032 4132
4. Neighborhoods 77 96 73
5. Assessing 701 2950 1276
6. HRCS 77 270 3055
7. 54-A District Court 382 730 630
8. City Council 18 71 87
9. EDP 386 1218 1149
10. City Attorney 18 36 50
11. Parking 99 176 160
12. Parks & Rec 174 374 285
13. Mayor's Office 48 122 212
14. Police, Fire & EMS 246 618 602
15. 311 Call Center 6698 7506 8468
45
1' 1' I' 1' 1' I' 1' 1' 1' 1' 11'
18 71 87
18 36 50
10
12
13
14
15
46
48 122 212
77 96 73
270 3055
176 160
174 374 285
246 618 602
382 730 630
386 1218 1149
701 2950 1276
2444 4241 10994
2741 2032 4132
4461 9380 9584
6698 7506 8468
Category Calls
Utility Assistance 741
Rental Assistance 304
Tenant Landlord 177
Complaints
Birth Certificate 41
Program
Other 31
Housing and Shelter 18
Blank 4
HUMAN RELATIONS & COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT
18
■Utility Assistance
=Rental Assistance
MOEN,,
4 ■Tenant Landlord Complaints
■Birth Certificate Program
■Other
■Housing and Shelter
■Blank
ft
The 2024 DNACE Annual Report reflects the department's unwavering commitment to
fostering vibrant neighborhoods, empowering residents,and enhancing civic engagement.
Through collaboration, innovation,and a dedication to service, DNACE has made
47
meaningful strides in improving the quality of life for Lansing's citizens.As we look ahead,
we remain focused on building stronger partnerships, expanding programs, and creating
opportunities for every resident to play an active role in shaping their community.Together,
we will continue to make Lansing a safer, healthier,and more connected city for all.
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DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT & PLANNING
RAWLEY VAN FOSSEN, DIRECTOR
DEPARTMENT DESCRIPTION
The primary objective of the Department of Economic Development and Planning (EDP)
has been to stabilize the City's economic base and, through continued planned and
directed development, grow that base to a level capable of providing continuous support
for the City's services and infrastructure. The Department consists of seven separate
divisions:
• Director's Office;
• Building Safety Office;
• Code Enforcement Office;
• Community Development Office;
• Office of Financial of Empowerment;
• Parking Services Office; and
• Planning Office.
Additionally, Downtown Lansing Inc
(DLI), the Lansing Economic o
Development Corporation (LEDC) 1
and affiliated bodies, and the
Lansing Entertainment and Public
Facilities Authority (LEPFA) report
indirectly through EDP.
The Building Safety Office is
operated as a Special Revenue
Fund, per State Law. Building
Safety is responsible for all
structures in the City and ensures
the safety of such structures, whether they be new, existing, or at the end of their useful
Life.
The Code Enforcement Office serves to protect the health, safety, and welfare of Lansing
residents through the preservation and improvement of the housing stock by assuring safe,
decent, and sanitary housing while preserving the integrity of Lansing neighborhoods.
49
The Community Development Office serves to administer a variety of federal grant
programs, including the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment
Partnership dollars, and the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG). These programs provide
dollars for housing and neighborhood improvement activities. Community Development
Office staff administer various other programs, such as Floodplain Abatement (through
FEMA) and Lead Hazard Control grant program. The Community Development Office also
serves as the fiduciary for MSHDA's Emergency Solutions Grant program.
The Office of Financial Empowerment (OFE) is based on the mayor's belief that Financial
Empowerment is Economic Development at the household level. The OFE delivers multiple
direct-service programs geared to household economic mobility, as well as several grant-
funded pilot programs to test out new ways to help our residents.
The Parking Services Office encompasses the operation of the municipal fee-based parking
system. Parking Services Office provides economical parking options for downtown
workers, residents, and visitors.
The Planning Office has a broad role in facilitating orderly development and growth across
the City. This division oversees development, implementation, and review of the City's
Master Plan. Planning functions include comprehensive planning, site plan review, flood
plain review, zoning review, historic preservation, public infrastructure, and review of
economic development projects.
Overall, the Department supports the following boards and commissions:
• Planning Commission;
• Zoning Board of Appeals;
• Historic District Commission;
• Make Safe or Demolish Hearings;
• Plumbing Board, Mechanical Board, and Electrical Board; and
• Building Board of Appeals.
The Department has worked closely with additional agencies to facilitate development in
the City, such as:
• Ingham County Land Bank Fast Track Authority;
• Lansing Economic Development Corporation;
• State of Michigan;
• Michigan State University;
• Tri-County Regional Planning Commission (TCRPC); and
• Neighborhood-based nonprofits.
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Additionally, our director serves a policy development and leadership role in connection
with the Mayor's Office when it comes to issues of economic development, community
development, and beyond. This includes oversight of special projects as needed and
serving in a proactive role when it comes to bringing new opportunities to the City and
supporting and growing existing opportunities.
We are pleased to share with you information from each division of the Department of
Economic Development and Planning at this time.
BUILDING SAFETY OFFICE
The staff of the Building Safety Office (BSO) are responsible for enforcement of the Stille-
Derossett-Hale Single State Construction Code Act, Act 230 of 1972, known as the
Michigan Building Code 2015, which includes reviewing construction documents, the
issuance of electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and building permits, and performing all
required inspections. The purpose of the Building Code is to establish the minimum
requirements to safeguard the public health, safety, and general welfare by ensuring the
structural strength, means of egress facilities, stability, sanitation, adequate light and
ventilation, energy conservation, and safety to life and property from fire and other
hazards attributed to the built environment, and to provide a reasonable level of safety to
firefighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.
BSO undergoes triannual audits from the Insurance Services Office (ISO). Municipalities
with well-enforced, up-to-date codes should demonstrate better loss experience from
natural disasters and other hazards. ISO assess a community's building code enforcement
in three areas:
• Code administration
• Plan review
• Field inspection
This is assessed by collecting data points for one- and two-family residential construction.
As well as for commercial and industrial construction. Data points are also collected for
each individual inspector which include years of experience, licenses and certifications
amongst other variables. Each inspector must take continuing education credits to keep
their licenses and certifications up to date.
In essence,the more knowledge,training and credentials BSO has,the better insurance
rates the City of Lansing receives.
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The BSO utilizes online permit applications for most permits, along with requests for
inspections and all electronic plan reviews. This process is intended to better serve the
public, contractors, and design professionals through the City's BSAonline.com web portal.
Accomplishments from January 1st to December 13th, 2024:
Permits Issued in 2024:
Electrical 1,655
Mechanical 2,181
Plumbing 1,330
Building 1,850
Sign 81
Demo 72
Total Permits 7,169
New Commercial Projects in 2024:437
Inspections Conducted in 2024:
Electrical 2,838
Mechanical 2,648
Plumbing 2,309
Building 4.303
Total Inspections 12,098
Marihuana License Inspections in 2024: 134
Site Plans Reviewed in 2024: 21
All City Project Active/Closed Permitted Construction Value that Began in 2024: $104 million
Other Activities of the Building Safety Office:
• Preconstruction meetings with developers, design professionals, and contractors.
• Staff participation on committees and other organizations that further the
education in the trades of our staff.
• The Building Official, Field Inspectors, and Plan Review staff continue to attend
educational seminars to earn State of Michigan ACT 407 credits that are required to
maintain their licenses as inspectors and plan reviewers.
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• The BSO inspects facilities for all marihuana licensing for the city.
• The BSO supports the State of Michigan by providing investigative services
regarding licensing complaints and inspection services for liquor license transfers.
• The BSO staff provides technical expertise and supports the Building Board of
Appeals, Electrical Board of Appeals, Mechanical Board of Appeals, and Plumbing
Board of Appeals.
Assistance to Other Departments:
• The BSO supports Code Enforcement by providing technical guidance regarding
inspections.
• The BSO supports the City Attorney by providing expert witness services and
Freedom of Information Act document search, retrieval, and reproduction.
• The BSO provides inspection services, technical expertise, and assistance to the
Development Office.
• The BSO provides permitting and inspection services for the Planning Office in the
administration of the Lansing Sign Code.
• The BSO assists the Fire Marshal's Office with plan review, occupancy classification,
and the setting of maximum occupant load in assembly occupancies. The BSO
provides inspection services in conjunction with the testing and operation of
automatic fire suppression and fire alarm systems. Our staff members are on call
for LFD at all hours in case of fire or other emergencies.
• The BSO supports the Lansing City Clerk by providing inspection services for
cabaret license issuance and renewals, as well as liquor license transfers and
marijuana licensing.
The BSO has also provided additional expertise and support hours that are not reflected in
the above data to support other departments of the City and to support development
projects that would benefit the City.
CODE ENFORCEMENT
The mission of the Code Enforcement Office is clear and vital: "To protect the health,
safety, and welfare of Lansing residents by ensuring safe, decent, and sanitary housing,
while preserving and enhancing the integrity of our neighborhoods." Our success in
achieving this mission is made possible through the tireless dedication of our 19 full-time
staff members. Their collaborative work with neighborhood organizations and various
partner agencies allows us to not only uphold housing standards but also actively improve
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Lansing's housing stock. These efforts are crucial in fostering stronger, safer, and more
vibrant neighborhoods for all our residents.
ASSURING QUALITY HOUSING
Through rigorous enforcement of the International Property Maintenance Code and City
Ordinances, the Code Enforcement Office steadfastly ensures the safety, habitability, and
overall quality of Lansing's residential communities. Our dedicated team executes a broad
range of essential responsibilities, including rental housing inspections, safety evaluations,
and exterior and premises assessments.
This year, our officers completed 3,193 rental certification inspections and re-inspections,
covering thousands of dwelling units to ensure compliance with safety and maintenance
standards. As part of these efforts, over 30,000 residential smoke alarms were tested to
guarantee the reliable operation of this critical life-saving device. Additionally, 2,340
safety inspections were conducted for both rental and owner-occupied properties,
resulting in 201 correction notices issued for exterior violations.
To reinforce compliance and accountability, the office issued 396 Failure to Register
letters, 450 Failure to Comply letters, and 264 Lack of Certificate violations to property
owners not meeting regulatory requirements. These efforts culminated in a total of 6,844
violation and inspection notices issued this year, reflecting the combined work of rental
housing inspections, safety checks, and enforcement of property standards. These totals
underscore our comprehensive approach to ensuring safe, well-maintained homes and
neighborhoods for all Lansing residents.
ENHANCING THE VISUAL ENVIRONMENT
In 2024, the Neighborhood Enhancement Action Team (N.E.A.T. Team) maintained its
critical role in improving Lansing's visual environment by actively monitoring and
addressing over 500 unsafe and vacant properties and conducting more than 6,000
exterior inspections. To safeguard public safety, 475 open and accessible structures were
secured through board-ups, ensuring that potentially hazardous properties were no longer
accessible.
The City of Lansing Housing & Premises Code addresses violations that significantly affect
neighborhood aesthetics, commonly known as "Premise Violations." This year's proactive
efforts included:
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• 3,960 inspections for tall grass and weeds, resulting in 518 abatement notices
issued.
• 3,573 inspections for trash and debris, with 563 abatement notices issued.
• 344 inspections for disabled or abandoned motor vehicles
• 306 front yard parking violations.
These diligent efforts by our Code Enforcement and Premises Officers reflect a strong
commitment to preserving the cleanliness and visual appeal of our community.
The Make Safe or Demolish process remains a critical tool in combating blight and
protecting public safety. Overseen by appointed Hearing Officers, Code Enforcement
Officers, and the Building Safety Office team, this process relies on expert evidence and
testimony to determine whether properties should be repaired or demolished to eliminate
hazards.
In 2024, 14 new structures entered this process, while hearings were also conducted for
properties carried over from 2023. This year, we significantly expanded our scope to
include commercial properties, ensuring a more comprehensive approach to tackling blight
and safeguarding the integrity of all neighborhoods in Lansing.
In collaboration with the City Attorney's Office, we made significant improvements to
streamline the Make Safe or Demolish process. These changes ensure efficiency while
upholding due diligence for property owners, giving them the opportunity to present
evidence and bring properties into compliance. These enhancements aim to reduce blight,
protect public safety, and enhance property values throughout Lansing.
Our staff takes great pride in these accomplishments, working tirelessly to create and
maintain neighborhoods that are clean, safe, and visually appealing for all residents.
PROTECTING NEIGHBORHOOD CHARACTER
The Code Enforcement Office also plays a pivotal role in upholding the City of Lansing's
Zoning Code. In collaboration with the Planning Office, our staff addresses a wide range of
neighborhood concerns, including vision obstructions along public rights-of-way, improper
parcel use, temporary storage unit installations, and more.
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In 2024, these joint efforts resulted in the identification and resolution of 356 zoning
violations. Each case involved thorough initial investigations followed by diligent re-
inspections to ensure compliance. The seamless coordination between the Code
Enforcement and Planning Divisions ensures consistent enforcement of critical zoning
ordinances, ultimately enhancing the City's appearance and supporting the orderly
development of our neighborhoods.
FACILITATE COOPERATIVE COLLABORATION
Each week, our work relies on close collaboration with numerous agencies, including the
Lansing Fire and Police Departments, Ingham County Animal Control, Ingham County Land
Bank, Ingham County Health Department, Community Mental Health, Adult and Child
Protective Services, and the Humane Society. These valuable partnerships enable us to
effectively address the diverse challenges we encounter and ensure a comprehensive
approach to community well-being.
Additionally, the close relationship between the City Attorney's Office and the Code
Enforcement Team plays a crucial role in upholding city ordinances and ensuring
compliance. This collaboration provides the necessary legal support and guidance to
address complex enforcement cases, streamline processes, and achieve meaningful
resolutions that protect Lansing's residents and neighborhoods.
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Throughout the year, our staff actively engaged with community neighborhood groups,
fostering strong relationships and open communication. Team members attended
numerous meetings, delivered informative presentations, and once again participated in
the Lansing Citizens Academy, where we provided insights into code enforcement
processes and responsibilities. These interactions offer valuable feedback that helps us
better understand and address the needs and priorities of Lansing's residents.
Additionally, Director Nicholas Montry spoke at the Ingham County Land Bank's Auction,
delivering critical information to participants about red tags, permits, compliance
requirements, and associated fees when purchasing auctioned properties. This outreach
ensures buyers are well-informed, promoting transparency and aiding in the responsible
redevelopment of properties within our community.
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COMMITMENT TO EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE
Our administrative and clerical staff are dedicated to providing exceptional customer
service at every opportunity. Whether interacting with residents in the office, on the
phone, or in the field, the Code Enforcement team serves as public relations ambassadors
for the City of Lansing. They play a pivotal role in fostering positive relationships among
neighbors, tenants, and property owners, working collaboratively to resolve issues and
achieve compliance.
We remain committed to enhancing customer service and accessibility, ensuring that every
interaction reflects professionalism, courtesy, and a genuine desire to support our
community. Moving forward, we will continue to explore new ways to improve
responsiveness and strengthen trust between the City and its residents.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OFFICE
The Community Development Office manages the annual U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development (HUD) federal and state community development grants allocated to
the City of Lansing. These grants are formula-based, focusing on entitlement funding that
benefits local initiatives. The Community Development Office's purpose is to promote safe,
healthy, and energy-efficient affordable housing opportunities for all residents and
property owners of Lansing. It also oversees programs to assist families with low-to-
moderate incomes, foster economic development, support local agencies that aid
homeless individuals and those at risk of homelessness, and encourage citizen-led
initiatives to create vibrant and attractive neighborhoods. Our accomplishments for 2024
include:
FEDERAL ENTITLEMENT PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION
The Community Development Office continued to administer various programs funded by
federal entitlement dollars, specifically Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and
HOME funds, to support income-eligible residents, generally those with incomes up to
80% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
Key programs include:
• Down Payment Assistance: Helping qualified homebuyers with down payment funds
to make housing more affordable.
• Homeowner Rehabilitation: Pairing funds with the Lead Safe Lansing Program,the
Community Development Office offers rehabilitation loans for eligible homeowners
57
and rental property owners to address lead-based paint hazards and necessary
code-related repairs.
• New Construction and Rehabilitation: The Community Development Office
collaborates with non-profit and for-profit developers to construct and rehabilitate
housing units that provide safe homes for eligible buyers and tenants. Notable
partners include the Capital Area Housing Partnership and Habitat for Humanity
Capital Region.
• Other CDBG funded activities: The Community Development Office coordinates
programs, such as Kids Camp and Neighborhood Bulk Trash Cleanups,with non-
profit partners,the Parks and Recreation Department,and the Department of
Neighborhoods,Art, and Citizen Engagement.
• HOME-ARP (American Rescue Plan): HUD allocated $2,784,822 in HOME ARP funds
to the City of Lansing during FY22. The Community Development Office worked
with a consultant to develop the HOME ARP Allocation Plan Draft,approved by HUD
in 2023. This plan requires consultation with the local Continuum of Care (CoC),
Homeless Service Providers, Domestic Violence Service Providers,Veterans Groups,
Public Housing Agencies (PHA), public agencies that address the needs of the
qualifying populations, and public and private organizations that address fair
housing, civil rights,and the needs of persons with disabilities. Qualifying
populations to be served by HOME-ARP include those experiencing homelessness,
those at risk of homelessness,those fleeing domestic violence, dating violence,
sexual assault, stalking,or human trafficking,and other populations for whom
providing supportive services or assistance would prevent the family's homelessness
or would serve those with the greatest risk of housing instability. Eligible activities
include the development of rental housing, supportive services, development of
non-congregate shelter,tenant-based rental assistance (TBRA),and non-profit
operating and capacity building.
The Community Development Office published the RFOP for HOME ARP and has
committed $2,102,31 to fund Hillsdale Place (1020 W. Hillsdale St.), a new construction
rental development of 40 units. The development will consist of 20 permanent HOME ARP
Permanent Supportive Housing units and 20 LIHTC units rented to households at or below
60% AM I.
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LEAD SAFE LANSING
Initiated in December 2020, the fourth Lead Safe Lansing grant builds upon previous lead
remediation grants. This program will make owner-occupied and rental housing units lead-
safe utilizing HUD resources. In 2024, 21 units were tested for lead hazards, with 11
households enrolled for remediation. Focus areas include abatement strategies on
windows, porches, and siding, emphasizing single-family residences of 1-4 units. The grant
Lasts until April 2025, with a funding amount of $4,589,940, supplemented by CDBG funds.
Furthermore, the program offers qualifying contractors free Lead Abatement Supervisor
Training and State of Michigan Certification.
STATE OF MICHIGAN GRANT PROGRAMS
The Community Development Office continues to serve as the Fiduciary for the MSHDA
Emergency Shelter Grant (ESG), Emergency Shelter Match Grant (ESM), and Emergency
Shelter Grant-COVID (ESG-CV) programs. This involves comprehensive administration,
grant management, disbursing funds, and monitoring sub-recipients who are engaged in
critical activities such as street outreach, managing shelter operations, preventing
homelessness, facilitating rapid rehousing, maintaining the Homeless Management
Information System (HMIS), and coordinating with the Housing Assessment and Resource
Agency (HARA). This integral work enhances our existing programs and overall staff
capabilities.
Additionally, through the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) Community Development Block
Grant COVID-19 (CDBG-CV) Economic Development Grant, and the Lansing CARES Small
Business Support Grant, the Community Development Office collaborated closely with the
Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and Downtown Lansing Inc. (DLI) to
secure a one-time grant of $1,000,000. This fund supported small for-profit businesses
within the Principal Shopping District that were adversely affected by COVID-19, providing
grants ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 for capital needs, staffing, and specific equipment
purchases. The Development Office monitors these sub-recipient grantees on an annual
basis.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
The Community Development Office actively participates in community-based committees,
including the Capital Region Housing Collaborative (the "Continuum of Care" for Greater
Lansing) and the Community Economic Development Network. These engagements allow
Community Development Office staff to share insights with direct-service organizations
59
and stay updated on significant development and community needs. Also, as part of the
development process for the 2024 Action Plan, the Community Development Office
actively sought community input regarding funding priorities for CDBG, HOME, and ESG
funds. A Public Notice was published to ensure local residents and property owners were
informed of participating opportunities.
The Community Development Office also participated in the Michigan Statewide Housing
Plan and remains involved in MSHDA's collaborative housing ecosystem of Regional
Housing Partnerships, which encompasses Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton counties. Lastly, the
Community Development Office staff attends multiple conferences throughout the year to
connect with their municipal counterparts and learn best practices. Conferences attended
in 2024 include: The Building Michigan Communities Conference and Turning the Tide —
Collaborative Strategies for Ending Homelessness Summit sponsored by MSHDA. As
members of the Michigan Community Development Association, the Development Office
Housing Specialists attended technical assistance bi-annual conferences across Michigan.
OUTREACH EFFORTS TO INCREASE PARTICIPATION AMONG CONTRACTORS AND
PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS
In FY24,the Community Development Office utilized multiple outreach strategies to recruit
qualified contractors for its housing programs.These included offering reimbursements for
training for eligible contractors and enhancing its contractor resource and recruitment
website.
Moreover, extensive outreach was conducted this fiscal year. Strategies included
distributing updated program brochures to local community centers,the City of Lansing
Code Enforcement, Building Safety Offices,and the Department of Neighborhoods,Arts,and
Citizen Engagement. Community Development Office staff also held regular progress
meetings and facilitated referrals through community partner agencies,attended
community resource fairs (South Lansing Farmers Market, Lansing Board of Water and Light
Community Resource Fair, CACS Community Resource Fair,and two fairs sponsored by the
City of Lansing's Human Relations and Community Services Department (the Housing
Rights & Resource Fair and the Health & Wellness Fair) to promote programs,and sent
email updates regarding program guidelines and funding availability to approved lenders.
Locally, staff have attended monthly Home Builders Association and Home Buyers Crews
Networking Group meetings.Active updates regarding funding availability and application
materials have been consistently posted on the City of Lansing website and disseminated
through social media channels focused on Lansing and Ingham County.
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Community Development Office Accomplishments Calendar Year 2024
Active Development Projects in 2024 CDBG:4
(CDBG, ESG, HOME, LSL, HOME ARP) HOME:4
LSL:21
HOME ARP: 1
Owner Occupied Rehabilitation units completed 2 Owner Occupied units completed
Down Payment Assistance Provided $14,999 in Down Payment Assistance
funds provided to 1 low-mod first time
homebuyer
MSHDA Shelter Diversion payments $ 238,390.25
Homeless Shelters Assisted all ESG Sources 6 Shelters
MSHDA ESF/ESM Households Assisted 939 Individuals and households
assisted
Contractor Disbursements on Development Projects (breakdown CDBG: $219,197.60
by program) HOME: $808,930.87
LSL: $154,065
LSL CDBG Match: $249,882.55
MSHDA ESF payments $298,319.53
MSHDA ESM payments $275,846.46
Lead Safe Lansing Units Completed 11 units made lead-safe
Lead Based Paint Risk Assessments Completed 21 units received lead-based paint Risk
Assessments
HERO Home Maintenance Classes held 16 Workshop Classes
January 2024 - September 2024 88 attendees total
HERO Mobile Tool Library transactions 384 tool transactions
January 2024 - September 2024 To 175 individuals and
at 7 community events
2024 Kids Camp 1,402 Total Enrollments
DLI Small Business Support Economic Development(CDBG-CV) 19 grants to small businesses
grants to small businesses negatively affected by COVID-19
2024 funding spent: $340,220.45
Distinguished Years of Service 30 years, Senior Planner
Doris Witherspoon
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PARKING SERVICES OFFICE
40 k\
The City of Lansing's Parking Services Office (PSO) has a core mission of providing clean,
convenient and affordable parking throughout the City. Our job is to maximize safe access
to a finite amount of parking inventory and support accessibility for all users.
The PSO Team consists of 19 full time positions and 15 part time positions. Our
responsibility is to maintain and service approximately 2,100 on-street parking spaces and
4,203 parking spaces in our ramps and surface lots for a total of 6,303 parking spaces in
our system.
We have seen a slight decrease of monthly permit parkers (1,248 for FY23; 1,210 for FY24).
As we see more daily workers and residents in the City, we saw an over 19% increase in
daily parkers (136,000 for FY23; 162,089 for FY24).
The Parking Enforcement team has issued approximately 29,890 parking tickets to date. Of
these, there were over 2,000 citations for violation of disabled parking laws (no
plate/placard, expired plate/placard, blocking access aisles) that impact the daily lives of
disabled citizens. This is an over 40% increase in disabled parking citations. Our Parking
Enforcement Officers are responsible for providing consistent, safety-focused enforcement
of the city's parking ordinances, including Parking in Fire Lane (229 citations in FY24),
Blocking Sidewalk/driveway (598 citations in FY24) and 1,595 Improper parking tickets.
One of our primary tasks is to create the very best parking experience, whether on-street
or in one of our facilities, for our customers in what is typically the first and last facility
that they will see in the Capital City.
Our major accomplishment this year has been the creation of a web- based dashboard
where customers can tell ahead of time if there are open spaces in a City ramp or in the
parking lots servicing the Lansing Center. The dashboard refreshes the count every 10
seconds, so the data is as close to live as possible.
If you are looking at using the North Grand ramp, North Capitol ramp, South Capitol ramp
or one of the Lansing Center lots, you can verify the current space count in real time.
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The PSO team has been working with Flowbird, the multi-
space parking kiosk vendor, to try a different configuration of
kiosk that would be simpler for customers to use. The vendor
provided a unit with a larger backlit screen that got good
reviews from members of the public that tried them. There
are still issues that need to be worked out and some
problems continue. The PSO team will pursue various
methods to provide the best service possible for our
customers.
At left, Traci Shelf, Parking Operations Supervisor, and Philicia
Lewis, Parking Ambassador, stand ready to assist customers in
using the test parking kiosk on S. Washington Square.
HOLIDAY PARKING SUPPORT
This was the third year the PSO charged a small fee ($5.00 per vehicle) for parking in
various City facilities to attend Silverbells. The whole team really stepped up and made a
huge parking event happen in the most efficient and expedited way possible. Despite the
threat of poor weather, it was a big success. We provided parking for over 2,100 vehicles
carrying couples and families to enjoy all the festivities.
NEW PARKING GUIDANCE
As we welcome back even more events to downtown Lansing, we KEEP YOUR
have a need to efficiently notify customers about parking locations. To �ENTRY TICKET'
that end, we are using large (24" by 36") black/white signs to make it 7THE
' In
easier to park for events at the Lansing Center or the Doubletree OING TO...
Hotel. The signs are easy to see anytime, day or night. NSING CENTER?
HE HOTEL?
GO TO THE 3"° FLOOR!
As always, be sure to visit our website for more updates and parking
information at www.Lansingmi.gov/parking.
PLANNING OFFICE
The Planning Office staff includes the Zoning Administrator, Principal Planner, Planner,
and the City's Commercial Corridor Specialist/Enforcement Officer. The primary
responsibilities of the Planning Office include:
• Developing and administering the City's Zoning Ordinance and Comprehensive Plan
in accordance with the requirements of the Michigan Planning and Zoning Enabling
Acts.
• Coordinating the preparation and approval of the Capital Improvements Plan.
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• Developing local historic districts and administering the regulations pertaining to
the buildings located therein.
• Processing, preparing reports and making recommendations to the Planning
Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, Historic District Commission, and City
Council Committees relative to requests for rezonings, special land use permits,
variances, appeals, historic building certificates of appropriateness, and Act 33
reviews.
• Coordinating the site plan review and approval process.
• Enforcing the requirements of the Zoning and Sign Ordinances.
Planning Office accomplishments in 2024 include:
ADOPTION OF A NEW SIGN ORDINANCE
The Planning Officer prepared and oversaw the adoption of a new sign ordinance to
replace the ordinance that had been in effect since 1990. The new ordinance will
eliminate visual clutter and create a more uniform signage pattern along the City
roadways, while still allowing for signage that is adequate to identify businesses. It also
addresses enforcement issues that were lacking under the previous ordinance.
SUBDIVISION ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
The Planning Office prepared and oversaw the adoption of amending the Subdivision
Ordinance, primarily to reduce the need for variances to permit the creation of new lots
that are consistent with existing lot sizes throughout the City. The amendments include
removing the language regarding curvilinear street design, minimum lot dimension
requirements and lot width to depth ratio restrictions. Lot size requirements are already
established in the Zoning Ordinance.
FORM-BASED ZONING CODE [FBC]
In 2021, the City adopted a Form-Based Zoning Code (FBC) that completely replaced the
1983 Zoning Ordinance. The FBC was amended in 2022 to address certain issues that
arose once the Planning Office began administering its provisions and applying them to
actual situations. Planning staff has identified several additional issues that need to be
addressed and has developed a series of proposed amendments that are currently being
considered by the Planning Commission and City Council. The amendments include:
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• Reduce the number of zoning district by consolidating those that have few or no
difference in land use regulations.
• Revise the land use tables to add conditions intended to address nuisances and
blight such as restrictions on outdoor storage of junk and screening of vehicle
storage areas, include uses not addressed in the current ordinance, and consolidate
uses into more broad categories.
• Amend/create definitions and establish regulations for various housing types such
as boarding houses, rooming houses, cooperatives, and accessory dwelling unit.
• Reduce the minimum house width size from 24 feet to 20 feet and the minimum lot
size requirements for 2-6-unit dwellings, where permitted.
• Clarify language that will make enforcement easier and more effective.
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DESIGN LANSING COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
The Planning Office is currently in the process of
updating the 2012 Design Lansing Comprehensive
Plan that informs policy decisions and guides the
development of Lansing. The Plan updates will
primarily focus on the economic, educational,
environmental, and health issues impacting the City
and strategies to promote more equitable social
development for its residents. Planning staff is
DESIGN LANSING developing a process to engage and solicit input
2012 comprehensive plan from the public on the proposed changes to the Plan.
The update will take several months with the ultimate goal of having the Plan updated in
its entirety by the end of 2025.
REDEVELOPMENT READY COMMUNITIES [RRC]
The Planning Office is still a participant in the Michigan Economic Development
Corporation's Redevelopment Ready Communities program. The City has properties
showcased as redevelopment ready sites on the "MIPLace" website:
https://www.mipLace.org/redevelopment-ready-sites/Lansing.
SITE PLAN, PERMIT, AND LICENSE REVIEW
The Zoning Administrator coordinates the site plan review
---- -- and approval process for the City. This involves providing
-= ' plans for new construction projects to the Public Service
- ' Engineering, Transportation, and Forestry Divisions the Fire
Marshal's Office, the Building Safety Office, and the Board
-_ — of Water & Light. The plans are reviewed for compliance
,�- with the requirements of the respective divisions/offices
and are also reviewed by the Planning Office for compliance
with the applicable zoning ordinance provisions. Planning Office staff works with the
applicant to address the issues raised in the reviews until the site plan has been approved
by all City departments/divisions and the Board of Water & Light. The Planning Office
processes an average of 20 site plans each year.
Planning Office approval is required prior to issuance of all sign, demolition, and building
permits (more than 3,000 annually). The Planning Office works with the Building Safety
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Office to provide the public with the most expeditious and efficient methods for
processing permits.
Applications for liquor licenses, cabaret licenses, second-hand dealer licenses, wrecker
Licenses, licenses for all marijuana facilities, child and group day care/adult foster care
facilities, and vehicle dealer licenses must be approved by the Planning Office before they
can be issued by the City Council and/or City Clerk's Office. The Planning Office staff
reviews approximately 200 licenses annually.
All rental registration applications must be approved by the Planning Office for
compliance with the Zoning Ordinance before they can be issued by the Code Enforcement
Office. The Planning Office staff reviews well over 2,000 rental registrations annually.
From January 1, 2024, through December 17, 2024 (the writing of this section of the
report), the Planning Office staff processed the following applications:
• Variances — 7
• Special Land Use Permits — 1
• Rezonings — 1
• Act 33 Reviews — 6
• Lot Splits — 13
• Lot Combinations — 19
• Site Plan Reviews — 21
• Historic District Certificates of Appropriateness — 1
The reduction in the number of requests for variances and rezonings in comparison to
previous years is a testament to the effectiveness of the City's new zoning and sign
ordinances.
BOARD, COMMITTEE, AND WORKGROUP MEETINGS
The Planning Office provides staff support to the Planning Commission, Board of Zoning
Appeals, and Historic District Commission. In 2024, the Planning Commission held 9
meetings, the BZA held 7 meetings, and the HDC held 5 meetings. The Planning Office
also provides staff support to the City Council Committee on Development & Planning
regarding planning and zoning matters.
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Planning Office staff participates in numerous staff level workgroups, including Wellhead
Protection Team, Groundwater Management Board, Sustainability Team, and Capital Area
Regional Transportation Study Technical Committee, among others. Planning Office staff
also regularly participates in the various corridor improvement authority meetings.
OFFICE OF FINANCIAL EMPOWERMENT [OFE]
The OFE works with residents to strengthen their financial wellbeing and improve
personal outcomes. It oversees four main programs:the Financial Empowerment Center,
OS Reentry, Lansing SAVE and Bank On Lansing.
Lansing was one of the first 6 cities in the United States to open a Financial Empowerment
Center, a data-informed, results-based financial counseling program based on the model
created by New York City's Department of Consumer Affairs. Since it's initial opening in
March 2013, the Lansing Financial Empowerment Center has delivered 16,707 free,
professional one-on-one financial counseling to 5,569 residents. Clients have reduced their
cumulative non-mortgage debt by nearly $14 million and increased their cumulative
savings by nearly $1.2 million. Over 500 clients have increased their credit scores by 35
points or more within one year, and 1,380 have decreased their total debt by 10% or more
in one year. There are no income limits to participation in this free program.
Of these 5,569 clients:
• 44% are 35 and under, and 16% are 65 and over;
74% have a household income of $25,000 or less;
• 38% were not working at the time of their first session;
• 53% are renters.
From October 1, 2023 through October 18, 2024, the Financial Empowerment Center was
temporarily closed for restructuring. Since relaunch, we've delivered 94 sessions to 55
residents who have already increased their cumulative savings by about $9,000 and
decreased their cumulative debt by over $34,000.
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s�
�I ..:ANN
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Mayor Schor cuts the ribbon at the Financial Empowerment Center re-opening at Reo School on September 12,
2024.
The City of Lansing serves as the OS Reentry Administrative Agency for Ingham, Clinton
and Eaton counties, providing wraparound support services to returning citizens with
Limited available resources in the community. Services include job training and placement,
mental health resources, transitional housing, and general social supports such as bus
passes and clothing vouchers. OS Reentry also helps clients access a number of resources
in the community including CDL training through Michigan Works and Nation Outside's
Trauma Informed Peer Led Reentry (TIPLR) program. OFE's partners for OS Reentry service
delivery are Peckham Industries, Prevention and Training Services (PATS), and Northwest
Initiative.
2023-2024 results OFE — Region 7 Statewide
Job Placement Rate 62.5% 72.5
Average Hourly Wage $15.12 $15.99
Long-Term Housing 74% 53%
Placements
Nights of Homelessness 6,155 226,109
Prevented
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Lansing SAVE is a partnership
between MSUFCU, the City of
1 .
Lansing, and the Lansing School
District. MSUFCU opens a savings
L nsinq SAVt
account for every Lansing School
District child when they register for
kindergarten. Part of OFE's
responsibilities for this program are
` fundraising, and this year we held
X
- - the Inaugural Mayor's Lansing SAVE
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Fall Golf Classic, which raised
enough to put $25 into the account of every 10th grade student.
OFE applies for and receives grants to test
various interventions to help Lansing's U DAIVEA'S LICENSE
residents succeed by eliminating barriers. This REINSTATEMENT PROGRAM
year, one of our initiatives is to pay fines and
A—ic n It—Pion Act to cl—court debts and SecTetary of State
fees to reinstate suspended driver's licenses 1-1 Than M,aV be Vopping residents from getting thvif dnYars
Licenses,This Fail—changes In Michitian law to 1—ent suumnsi—
when the suspension is unrelated to unsafe not rotated to dfbel"safe"
REOVIREMENTS
driving (such as a debt to a court). We've usedTwo
American Rescue Plan dollars to pay off
$22,338 in such debts to reinstate 65 qualifying
residents. We've partnered with Secretary of
State to create a voucher clients can present
when requesting reinstatement to further
WVCUDOWTHAVETWO OF THESE LISTED DOCUMENTS,YOU CAN
eliminate barriers. PROV=AN OPPICIIAL DOCUMENT WITH YOUR FULL NAME AND ADDRESS
Any FOR STAFF TO RFVIFW u
70
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
ANDY SCHOR, MAYOR
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Mayor Andy Schor was honored to be invited to greet President Joe Biden at an official White House event in
Michigan in September.
As Lansing's Chief Executive Officer,the Mayor supervises and coordinates the various
departments and agencies of city government and ensures the laws,ordinances,and
regulations of the City are enforced.The Mayor is empowered under the City Charter to
keep order and enforce the laws of the state and is charged with making proposals to the
City Council for meeting the needs and addressing the problems of the City. Other duties,
subject to delegation, include the development and preparation of the budget, response to
audit reports, reducing discrimination and promoting mutual understanding,and citizen
complaint investigation and response.
The Lansing City Charter Article 4, Chapter 2 also provides for the Mayor to appoint an
Executive Assistant.This is the Mayor's official liaison with the City Council,attending
regular meetings of the City Council and the Committee of the Whole,along with other
administrative duties as required.
71
R
it
Debbie ..
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Park
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The Mayor's staff responds to citizen inquiries,complaints, informational needs, and
concerns,and works with residents and citizen groups to implement initiatives for city
improvement.The Mayor also acts as the City's chief spokesperson,speaking to local,
statewide, national, and even international media to promote Lansing.
In addition,the Mayor also oversees the operations of the Office of Community Media
(Lansing Public Media Center & City TV), Labor Relations,the Communications Division,the
Mayor's Community Relations and Faith-Based Initiatives,the Mayor's Neighborhood
Advisory Council,the Mayor's Gun Violence Task Force,the Mayor's Mental Health Task
Force,the Mayor's Interfaith Council,the Mayor's Veterans Commission,the Lansing
Sustainability Commission,and a variety of other community-based task forces.
72
Department directors,agency leaders,and
other affiliated organizations rely on a
professional municipal management team in
the Mayor's office to ensure the smooth
running and 24/7 operations of a large city
government serving the needs of residents,
\ businesses,and visitors. In addition to the
IF
city's Chief Administrative Officer,the Mayor
3 relies on key executive leadership staff to
ensure efficient operations are maintained.
The Mayor is also supported by a team that maintains the daily operations of his office, his
schedule, special event planning,the Sister Cities Commission,appointments to boards and
commissions,state and federal grant research and applications,strategy and budget,state
and federal government relations, labor relations, communication with Lansing residents
and businesses, Lansing Living magazine,and many other city functions.
2024 HIGHLIGHTS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Mayor Andy Schor often claims that"Lansing's time is now." It's because he is optimistic for
Lansing's future and everything his administration is working on to make our city grow.
Lansing currently has a record amount of investment happening in our city right now: over
a billion dollars in new housing,job growth, infrastructure,and city services projects are
being put to work here. ,
Thanks to the critical partnerships and relationships
Mayor Schor and his administration have built, Lansing '>' Rr
is moving ahead into a more vibrant future. Our
Landscape will look different in two years as we make
progress on so many of the incredible initiatives now
underway.
Lansing — and the Schor administration — has faced challenges head on, always moving
forward with a vision and plans for our future.
Together,we're building a thriving city in which businesses create jobs, residents of all
incomes can live in new or rehabilitated housing,and people enjoy living, raising a family,
73
and retiring.We will continue to promote housing options for all and work to make Lansing
equitable for every resident. It's not always easy work, but Mayor Schor and his team are
committed to it.Some of the major projects include the following:
NEW CITY HALL
As spring weather starts to hit in 2025, ground will be broken and this new building will
start to rise. Mayor Schor has long advocated for a modern home to city government with a
one-stop customer service center for residents.A $40 million appropriation from the state
of Michigan will finally make this happen.
OVATION CENTER FOR MUSIC & ARTS
Early 2025 will also see the new Ovation Center take shape on South Washington Square
and change nights and weekends in downtown Lansing for decades to come.Work is
already underway on the building that is remaining on the site that will be incorporated
into the design and will be the new home of the Lansing Public Media Center.
�1
I`
Rendering
74
PUBLIC SAFETY & DISTRICT COURT COMPLEX
i
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Rendering
Lansing voters passed a millage to support this state-of-the-art facility that will be home
to the Lansing Police Department, Fire Department Administration, District Court,and a
new fire training complex.We are also rebuilding and remodeling several fire stations
across the City.Work here is moving along quickly.The former SWOC building on the site
was demolished in 2024 and the new complex is starting to rise in its place.
sue__ Mayor Schor was on site to kick off the demolition of the
outdated South Washington Office Complex to make way
It t for the new complex.
=� NEW VISION LANSING
-�. — This massive $317 million investment will see
575 new units of housing built, bringing
hundreds of new residents to downtown and
Old Town. Mayor Schor helped secure $40
million in state funding and supports the
passage of a Brownfield redevelopment improvement plan to help make this happen.
THE MACOTTA CLUB
This will be an exciting restaurant and food incubator hall located downtown and is
expected to open in 2025. Mayor Schor secured grant funding to bring this concept to life.
75
New dining and entertainment, along with new residents,will help bring more vibrancy to
our downtown.
VERLINDEN PLANT SITE CLEAN-UP
The City received a $19 million grant to clean-up the former auto factory site on Lansing's
westside.Work will begin soon to ready the land for future development.
CURRENT CITY HALL
Mayor Schor's plan to sell and redevelop the current City Hall was passed by City Council
and the new owners will transform the mid-century modern structure into a hotel and
dining complex.Work will begin once the City fully moves out in the coming years.
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FIRE STATION 2 REBUILD
As part of the Public Safety & District Court millage,the dilapidated former Fire Station 2 is
being torn down and replaced with a new, modern facility.
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i
FEDERAL INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENTS
76
In addition to improvements highlighted in
the Public Service Department report, Mayor
Schor was pleased to announce several
other major investments from the federal
f _
government to improve our community.
Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration's
Investing in America agenda, Mayor Schor
joined officials from the US Department of
._ Transportation to announce that Lansing
and several regional partners were awarded
Y. $8 million to install up to 50 EV charging
stations in the area.
US DOT also granted millions in road
funding to the state of Michigan for several
bridge projects, including plans to
completely rebuild a bridge over the Red Cedar River near REO Town.
Mayor Schor was also pleased to announce that the City of Lansing also received a $5
million forestry grant from the US Department of Agriculture to plant hundreds of trees to
increase our canopy cover across the city.
• ' • '
1
�J IN
II
I
OFFICIAL FEDERAL GOVERNMENT VISITS
Mayor Schor was honored to welcome several officials from the federal government to
Lansing for official government visits throughout the year.
77
In May, he welcomed the
Senior Advisor to the President and Director of the White
House Office of -=—�
Intergovernmental Affairs,
former Secretary of Labor,Tom `
Perez to Lansing.They spent
the day at several stops, AWN-
including a tour of the Capital -
Area Housing Partnership's e" '
Walter French housing
redevelopment project,a
roundtable featuring a diverse
panel of Lansing non-profit leaders,and a stop at Lansing Fire Station 1.
In July, U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm joined Mayor Schor at GM's Lansing
Grand River Assembly to
y^ }
announce a massive $500
million federal investment in
the plant to convert into an
r l EV plant,saving hundreds of
good union jobs in our city.
r In September, US Secretary
of Transportation Pete
Buttigieg visited Lansing to
tour a job training facility at
Lansing Community College
and to visit the 127 and 496
78
interchange that was under
L-
construction. Mayor Schor was
honored to participate in both
events. ` -I;A-
In
September,Acting Secretary of _
the US Department of Labor Julie
Su came to Lansing to promote
the "Good Jobs,Great Cities"
agenda. She and Mayor Schor held ---several events i n Lansing over the CHIGAN MICHIGAN RICHIGAN MICHIGAN MICHIGAN
L-CIO -CIO AFL-CIO AFL-CIO
course of two days, including a
MICHIGAN MICHIGAN AN rd MICH
roundtable meeting with local AFL- FL-CID
Labor leaders,a roundtable with IGAN L�MICHICAN
;CIO —
job providers,education leaders, I
and job training specialists to talk , i
about growing women and r r
underserved populations in job —
training. Secretary Su and Mayor
Schor,along with several leaders in local job training organizations signed the USDOL's
`Good Jobs, Great Cities' Pledge at a public ceremony in Lansing City Hall.
In addition, Secretary Su attended and spoke at the City's annual September 11 memorial
remembrance in Wentworth Park.
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'May.,Andy Scho, LANSING
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USNS LANSING [EPF 161
79
On July 22,the United States Secretary of the
Navy,Carlos Del Toro,joined Mayor Schor and - =
Governor Gretchen Whitmer at the Michigan State
Capitol to announce the Navy's newest `
expeditionary fast transport vessel, EPF 16,would be named the USNS Lansing.
"This city is a testament and monument to
American ingenuity and our democratic ideals,"
said Secretary Del Toro."It is my deepest honor to
announce that the next expeditionary fast transport, EPF 16,will be named USNS Lansing."
- , --_ "On behalf of Lansing and our
residents, I am truly grateful that
- the Navy has decided to name
' this new vessel in honor of our
city,"said Mayor Schor.
Along with the ship's name,
Secretary Del Toro also
announced that Governor
\ I ANSIN I. I, I I • Whitmer will serve as sponsor of
the future USNS Lansing. In her
role as sponsor,she will represent
a lifelong relationship with the ship and crew.
"Lansing has something for everyone and everyone has a place in Lansing,"said Governor
Whitmer."This is a diverse, inclusive city where people from around the world have come to
build better lives for themselves and their loved ones."
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STATE OF THE CITY
Mayor Schor delivered his sixth State of the City speech on March 12, 2024,at Grewal Hall
in downtown Lansing.With 250 people in attendance, he spoke about the administration's
accomplishments over the previous year and provided a look-ahead to 2024.
• •.
- STATE OF THE -
U - -
TATE
APPOINTMENTS TO CITY BOARDS & COMMISSIONS
The Mayor's Appointments Coordinator monitors,coordinates and maintains all Mayoral
appointments to city boards and commissions,and provides regular status reports on term
expiration dates,vacancies,etc.to the Mayor.All application requests submitted through
the City's website.After consultation with the Mayor and review of qualifications, including
any ordinance requirements for specific roles,selected applicants are contacted about
moving forward through the background process.The Appointments Coordinator manages
the vetting process,which may require more information from applicants to complete the
process, including police backgrounds and tax status inquiries. In sum, 119 applications
were submitted,and 71 residents were appointed or re-appointed to City boards and
commissions.
THE MAYORS' RAMADAN DINNER
A joint event with the East Lansing Mayor is primarily organized and coordinated by Mayor
Schor's office. Last year the dinner had roughly 250 attendees, raising thousands for the
Greater Lansing Food Bank.
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SILVER BELLS IN THE CITY
- i
r
The Mayor's office is involved with the planning and coordination of this annual event.
Drawing tens of thousands to downtown Lansing each year,the 2024 celebration was the
40th anniversary of Silver Bells,featuring a bright red tree to represent the Ruby
Anniversary year,the electric light parade,the jaw-dropping drone show,and incredible
fireworks over the State Capitol once again.
GRANTS
Reporting to the Chief Strategy Officer,the Mayor's office employs a Strategy Analyst to
help apply for,track, monitor,and administer state and federal grants for the City of
Lansing. Fully funded through the administrative costs allowed for in the grants,this
position works directly with the Chief Strategy Officer,the Mayor's office,department
directors and external partners to identify federal and state funding opportunities to
advance city priorities.This role also coordinates the administrative requirements of grants
that the City wins.
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In addition to the millions received in federal grants previously mentioned,the City of
Lansing was able to secure several other grants in 2024, including:
LEO Firefighter Turnout Gear- $549,500
This grant was awarded to support our Lansing Fire Department purchase of new turnout
gear.The requested turnout gear would have a PFAS/Fluorine free vapor barrier to combat
the chemicals found in gear shells that are known to cause cancer.
Federal Emergency Management Agency(FEMA) SAFER Grant- $4,358,166.90
This provided funding directly to fire departments to help communities meet industry
minimum standards and attain 24-hour staffing to provide adequate protection from fire
and fire-related hazards,and to fulfill missions of fire departments.
LEO Talent Investment- $1,370,000
Awarded funds to promote the Downtown area of Lansing. Between fixing up roads,
facades of buildings, current restaurants, and a couple unannounced upcoming projects.
MSP BYRNE SCIP Gun Violence Grant- $400,000
Funds were to reduce gun violence in the northwest sector of the City of Lansing by
expanding the Advance Peace Lansing violence disruption strategy (APL).The project will
employ individuals designated as peacekeepers and Neighborhood Change Agents,to
83
conduct street outreach, conflict mediations, gun violence interruptions,social media
responses and shooting responses.
DART Grant- $1,250,000
This funding opportunity went toward the upcoming construction and associated costs of
Lansing's new Ovation project.
EGLE MiCorp Volunteer Stream Clean-up Grant Contract- $5,000
Funding awards were distributed between fund supplies and food for all the volunteers
that helped clean up our Red Cedar River.
Bloomberg Youth Climate Action Fund - $40,000
Multiple funding opportunities were distributed between groups that held youth-led
events to teach specified age groups about the environment.
Bloomberg American Sustainable Cities (BASC) Implementation Fund - $100,000
The BASC initiative offered support to leverage historic amounts of federal funding to
proactively build low-carbon, resilient,and economically thriving communities.The funding
request was to develop a detailed roadmap for implementing the major sustainability
initiatives and to establish clear instructions and templates for reporting, compliance, and
future project management.
USDOT Reconnecting Communities - $1,040,000
The Mend the Gap project would support a planning study to assess several potential
solutions to reconnect the Westside Neighborhood, Downtown Lansing, and REO Town
communities, including capping portion(s) of 1-496 to create additional green space and
calming traffic on parallel surface streets to increase safety for pedestrians and cyclists
Shared Streets and Spaces Grant Program - $163,400
Funds were used to enhance bus stops that intersect between the CATA transit system and
the Lansing River Trail, increasing safety for Lansing residents.
84
FINANCE
DESIRES A. KIRKLAND, DIRECTOR
The Finance Department consists of several divisions, including Accounting, Budgeting,
Purchasing, and Accounts Payable, all of which provide essential administrative support to
the City of Lansing's governmental operations. Our core functions include managing the
City's various funds and grants, preparing and monitoring the budget, conducting financial
analysis and forecasting, procuring goods and supplies, processing vendor payments,
preparing the annual financial report, and administering the retirement system.
We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional customer service to other City departments,
assisting with accounting software inquiries and training, procurement of goods and
services, financial resources, and reporting, as well as supporting employees and retirees
with pension matters. Additionally, we work closely with the Mayor, City Council, and other
officials responsible for developing, adopting, and overseeing the City's budget. Each
member of the Finance Team plays a vital role in achieving the department's overall goals
and objectives, working collaboratively to safeguard the City's resources.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN 2024
• Maintain the Debt Book software to comply with GASB 96 subscription-IT
arrangements (SBITAs) requirements. Additional, utilizing software to track and
maintain City of Lansing IT subscriptions.
• Implement new chart of accounts in compliance with the State of Michigan Uniform
Chart of Accounts (UCA).
• Worked with several departments on various Bonds; Public Safety,Ovation and
Montgomery Drain (amendment)
• Preparation and participation in participatory budget sessions, in conjunction with
Neighborhood and Community Development.
• Transitioning the accounting system and General Ledger to a more efficient model.
• Overhauling Citywide credit card processing.
• Added 3 Accountants to the Finance Team,strengthening our capacity to meet the
demands of our financial operation.
• Reconstructing the banking system and consolidating accounts.
• Working to implement BS&A software,a new general ledger and upgrade current
BS&A platforms to the cloud base platform.
85
• Working on internal controls study with Maner Costerisan, CPA.
• Creating internal control policy and procedure manual for all City Departments.
• Accounts Receivable has been transferred from OuickBooks to BSA which has
resulted initiating
• Worked closely with staff to address audit findings and recommendations by
encouraging timely updates and better internal controls. Thereby reducing audited
findings.
• Using BS&A software to identify and make processes more efficient reducing
operational costs.
• We operated using a balanced budget without using Fund balance.
FUTURE PROJECTS
The FY25 Strategic Plan for the Finance Department focuses on developing written policies
and procedures to enhance efficiency.Additionally, it aims to implement comprehensive
training across all City Departments.
APPRECIATION
All Finance Department employees deserve commendation for their achievements in
2024 and their ongoing commitment to improving service delivery in the future.Their
dedication ensures that the residents, businesses,and visitors of the City of Lansing are
consistently well-served.
86
LANSING FIRE DEPARTMENT
BRIAN STURDIVAN) , FIRE CHIEF
The Lansing Fire Department (LFD) is committed to serving the Lansing area community
with the highest levels of life and property protection. LFD will achieve this by providing
excellent compassionate service in an atmosphere that encourages innovation, professional
development and diversity.
ORGANIATION CHART
FIRE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
The Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners is established by the Lansing City
Charter and functions as an advisory board with additional responsibilities
defined by the Charter.The board meets monthly on the second Wednesday at
5:30pm,where input from the public is welcomed. Meetings are held at a
different Fire Station each month. See the City's website or Board Meeting
Notices for more details.The eight commissioners are appointed by the mayor
87
with the consent of the City Council. One member represents each ward,and
four members are appointed at-large. Pursuant to the Charter,and in
consultation with the fire chief and mayor,the commission is responsible for
the following:
• Establish the department's administrative rules
• Approve rules and regulations governing conduct of department members
• Establish procedures for receiving and resolving complaints concerning the
department Review and approve the department's annual budget request
• Act as the final authority in imposing or reviewing discipline of department
employees consistent with State Law and Collective Bargaining Agreements
• Deliver an annual report reviewing the progress and planning of the department to
the mayor and City Council
• Otherwise acting as an advisory board in support of the department
Members of the Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners:
Steven Purchase I Chair I At-Large
Barbara Lawrence I Vice Chair I At-Large
Jerrod LaRue 12nd Ward
Gina Nelson 13 d Ward
Charles Willis I At-Large
Krishna Singh I At-Large
FROM THE CHAIR AND FIRE CHIEF
The Lansing Fire Department made great progress over the last year and is in a strong
position to continue improving next year. Over this past fiscal year,the Lansing Fire
Department:
• Implemented NFPA 1582 Medical Exams to include comprehensive cancer
screens for all members of the department.
• Developed the LFD Fire Cadet Program,to enhance the fire recruit hiring
platform.
• Continued work on the Public Safety Campus that will include new space for
Fire Administration, new training facilities and a new fire station to replace
Station 42.As part of the $175 million Public Safety Campus Bond, Station 49
will also be torn down and replaced with a new, modern building and other
88
stations will receive upgrades and enhancements to meet current operational
needs and provide safe,clean, efficient live/work environments for our
firefighters.Additional dry storage space will also be created as part of the
Public Safety Campus.
• Made significant progress with the 5-year strategic plan with clear goals to
guide planning and day-to-day management of the department.
As a Fire Board,they have begun reviewing and approving the department's new
policies and procedures as required by mandate under the City Charter.They also
participated in the development of the Strategic Plan and work to identify strengths,
weaknesses,opportunities and threats to the department's operations and ability to
serve Lansing.
Over the past several years,the department has been able to benefit from COVID and
other sources of one-time funding to replace aging fire apparatus, upgrade essential
paramedic equipment, update turnout gear and other PPE and install gear washers to
protect our firefighters against harmful contaminants.The department also
implemented new inventory systems to improve management and reduce cost of
paramedic supplies while making dozens more small operational changes to improve
effectiveness.
All that said,we must recognize the challenges that remain. Departments throughout
Michigan and around the country continue to struggle recruiting and hiring new talent.
At the same time,call volumes—particularly the demand for EMS service—continue to
rise at an unsustainable rate.The Fire Department and Board of Fire Commissioners
appreciates the challenges presented by municipal finance in Michigan,and the hard
work of city leaders, including the mayor and Council,to allocate resources to the Fire
Department.
To address forward looking challenges,we know that the City will continue to innovate
and streamline the hiring process so we can better compete for qualified candidates
and put them on the job faster.We also recognize a need to add additional EMS
capacity to reduce wear-and-tear on LFD equipment and personnel while maintaining
the world-class service Lansing enjoys.
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It is only appropriate to conclude by recognizing the men and women who serve
Lansing as Fire Fighters and Paramedics. Lansing's firefighters and paramedics do
outstanding work in a difficult job,serving everyone who lives and works in or visits
Lansing.We thank you for your continued service,sacrifice and dedication to our
community.
Sincerely,
Stephen Purchase, Chair, Board of Fire Commission
Brian Sturdivant, Fire Chief
DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION
Fire department operations are managed through seven divisions.The department
receives additional direct support from the City Garage and IT Department. Operational
funds for LFD Divisions are appropriated through the annual budget process for each
of these areas. Each division is identified below along with a description of its area of
responsibility.
Fire Administration
The Fire Administration Division provides funding for the following positions: Fire
Chief, 2 Assistant Chiefs, 1 Administrative Chief, 1 Financial Officer and Administrative
Support Staff. It is the Fire Chief's responsibility to administer all policies, programs
and resources for the City's fire service.The Fire Chief also serves as the City's
Emergency Manager, responsible for major event coordination,disaster preparedness
and mitigation response.
Operations Division
The Operations Division provides funding for firefighting personnel,apparatus and
facilities. Each shift is assigned a Battalion Chief, 8 Captains, 8 Engineers and 36
Firefighters. Responsibilities include the control and suppression of fire,emergency
medical response, hazardous materials mitigation,technical rescue,water rescue and
vehicle extrication.
Prevention Division
The Prevention Division funds the Fire Marshal and five Inspectors,and an
administrative assistant.The Prevention Division is responsible for inspections of new
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and existing occupancies, plan reviews, public safety education programs,Juvenile Fire
Watch program,fire investigations and hazmat right-to-know compliance
EMS Operations Division
The EMS Operations Division provides funding for the EMS Operations Chief and two
EMS Captains and an EMS Secretary who oversees all licensing,quality assurance,
quality improvement and review of all EMS regulatory issues.
Training Division
The Fire Training Division funds the position of Chief of Training and three Training
Captains,and an administrative assistant. Maintaining competent firefighters is critical
to our response capabilities.The Department's training program covers a wide range of
subjects relating to firefighting, medical response, rescue, hazardous materials,
personnel safety,terrorism and related services.
Emergency Management Division
The Emergency Management Division funds provide for a Division Chief, Emergency
Management Captain,Community Hazard Mitigation Specialist and two Regional
Planners.This division coordinates the City's emergency planning efforts, as well as
assists all City departments with Continuity of Operations Planning and public event
management.Approximately 20% of the Emergency Management Division is grant
funded.
Logistics Division
Maintenance and Alarm funding provides for the logistical side of the department's
operations.The Logistics Chief oversees two Logistics Captain positions,a contract
employee and an administrative assistant in coordinating the department's supply
chain,equipment/facility maintenance and equipment testing services.
City Garage and IT
Funds are allocated from the Fire Department Budget in support of the City Garage
and IT Department,which in turn, provides Fleet Management/maintenance and IT
services to the Fire Department in accordance with City Policy.
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ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION
r 1"90711
At
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The department's administration is responsible for managing and directing the
operations of the Lansing Fire Department.
Fire Chief Brian Sturdivant,Assistant Fire Chief Ken Lay,Assistant Chief Carrie Edwards-
Clemons,Administrative Division Chief David Odom, Department Financial Officer Eric
Rasool and Administrative Specialist Jules Overfelt work collaboratively to assure the
department performs at its peak potential while providing a growing city with the
emergency response services it needs to keep its residents and visitors safe.
Department Administration Activity
• Implemented NFPA 1582 Medical Exams with cancer screening.
• Developed the LFD Cadet Program to enhance the fire recruit hiring pipeline.
• Continuing the partnership and planning of two new fire stations,fire
administrative facilities and training facilities funded through the Public Safety
Campus Bond.
• Secured a $4.3 million SAFER grant from FEMA for firefighter staffing support
BUDGET
The Fire Department's FY 2023/2024 annual budget is divided into five major
programs which combined are designed to protect citizens and visitors by enabling the
department to respond to all types of emergencies. Listed below are the individual
programs and the respective funding levels for FY 2023-2024 along with
miscellaneous funding divisions. Note that IT and Fleet Services are usually considered
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part of Fire Administration but are broken out here for the sake of identifying cross-
departmental allocations.
FY23/FY24 Adopted FY23/24 Spent
Fire Administration $3,115.767 $2,951.525
Suppression $30,931.549 $31.251,745
Prevention Division $1,484,351 $1,306,883
Ambulance/EMS Services S583.000 S483.843
Training Division $1,009,130 $721,151
Emergency Management Division $680,178 $621.190
Logistics Division $1,709,181 $1,513.736
Hazardous Materials $25.000 $14.097
Technical Rescue $25,000 $33,377
Radio Lab $15.000 $17.486
Misc.Operating -S820
Code Compliance $0 $1.125
IT $1234 W $1,234,366
Fleet Services $2,145,000 $2,145,500
Total Expenditures $42,967.622 S42,296,204
FY 23/24
Spent
• Operating Expenses
• Salary/Benefits
• External Costs(Fleet/IT)
OPERATIONS DIVISION
Organization is built around supporting the department's Operations Division.The
Operations Division is responsible for responding to the daily emergencies within the
community.Three Battalion Chiefs manage each of the three shifts.Company captains
handle command of minor incidents and manage their assigned individual crews,
which allows the Battalion Chief to take control of more difficult or complex
emergencies.
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The City maintains five fire stations,training grounds and a logistics facility. Current
funding allows for staffing levels of 108 firefighters, 24 Engineers,and 24 Captains
with a minimum daily staffing of 41. Stations are staffed using a three-platoon 24-hour
shift schedule.
Staffing levels allow the department to maintain a response force of six engine
companies,two truck companies,one command officer and five ambulances daily.
Ambulances are staffed with two medically certified personnel with a minimum of one
Licensed paramedic. Hazardous materials,technical rescue and water rescue units are
available for response through the reassignment of on shift engine and truck company
personnel. Each truck and engine company is staffed with a captain,engineer and one
or two firefighters.
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Response Stats
Daily Average/Annual Runs
O Average Runs Per Day Total Runs
90 27,544 28,000
25,993 26,042
80 25,500
70 22,579 23,000
21,884 21,919 22,068
21,665
21,101
60 -20-,170 20.500
50 18,000
FY2014 FY2015 FY2016 FY2017 FY2018 FY2019 FY2020 FY2021 FY2022 FY2023
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Run Type FY2023
F- PO"—
• EMS • Fire 5,697
01147
"Lam" A
Annual Runs and Response Time by Station
E Annual Runs — EMS Average Response Time Fire Average Response Time
9000 7
6750
6
4500 •
5
2250
0 4
Station 1 Station 2 Station 4 Station 6 Station 8 Station 9
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Annual Runs by Unit
2022/2023 2023/2024
Medic 41
Medic 411
Medic 46
Medic 49
Medic 491
Engine 41 '
Engine 46
Engine 49
Engine 44
Engine 48
Engine 42
Truck 41
Truck 46
29 Other Units
0 1250 2500 3750 5000
'Note that Lansing's Rescue Units continue to be some of the very busiest in the country and
medical call volume continues to increase on an annual basis,suggesting the need to add
additional Rescue Units in the future.Other units include back-up units, BC cars, Fire Marshal
Vehicles,and specialty rigs like HazMat.
EMS Response Stats
Average Response Time: 6:14
Total EMS Unit Responses Jan. 1, 2024-Dec. 9. 2024: 19,545
Most common injuries (not including illnesses):
• Abdominal pain
• Acute respiratory distress
• Alcohol intoxication
• Chest pain
• Generalized weakness
PREVENTION DIVISION
Personnel
Fire Marshal Jared Nisch works with inspectors to assure that the properties within the
City remain in compliance with adopted fire codes. Fire prevention and education
activities are also viewed as important work of the division.
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2024 Milestones:
• Company level PIP program in place and running.
• Apartment/multi-family dwelling inspection campaign with Code Enforcement.
• Juvenile Fire Setter Program build-out. Will continue to develop in 2025.
• Numerous long-term projects completed including: SWOC evidence clean out,
Knox-Box accountability, and reestablishment of a Fire Prevention Month
campaign.
• Fire Marshal Burger retired,and Fire Marshal Nisch filled his spot. Onboarding
of two new inspectors: Cameron Walker and Braiden Hurt.
• Development of the `Residential Safety Program."
• All six employees of the FMO are fully independent and trained in the division
at this time.
• Developed a "Preschool Fire Inspection Program"with the purchase of 500
SWAG bags to give out to the children. Fire Operations conducted the fire
education component of this program with much success.
• Implemented a successful Fire Prevention Month Campaign with multiple
school visits,social media posts,and two open houses.
• 113 Community Events for Fiscal Year 2023/2024
2024 End of Year Numbers (as of 12/6/2024):
• Plans Reviewed: 109 (18% increase from 2023)
• Special Events Inspected: 160 (Same as 2023)
• Dwellings where smoke alarms were installed:108
• Fire Inspections: 1,207 (63% increase from 2023)
• Food Trucks Inspected: 105
• Fires Investigated:
• Structure fires - 72
• Vehicle fires- 12
• Arson investigations - 19
• Fatal fire deaths in buildings- 0
• Fatal fire deaths outside buildings-1
2025 Goals:
• Continue FMO's areas of responsibility for the LFD Strategic Plan.
• Achieve an ISO rating of one.
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• Capture new revenue through grants and expanded permitting.
• Put new run management and inspection software in place (ESO) and train the
department at large in addition to the Fire Marshal's Division.
• Continue to refine and hone our four areas of responsibility (investigations, plan
review, inspections, community risk reduction) within greater strategic plan goals
and departmental priorities.
• Food truck permit in place.
• Complete the transition from the 2018 to 2021 IFC.
• Collaborate with the Capital Region Airport Authority on pre-incident planning and
conduct fire inspections within the airport perimeter
TRAINING DIVISION
Personnel
Training Division Chief Dave Rivet and three captains each serve as multi-faceted
trainers and educators. Fire Department administrative staff supports them.A cadre of
specialty adjunct instructors also supports the division.
These men and women are trained professionals with specialized instructor credentials
from across the divisions and ranks of the Fire Department.
In 2024,the Training Division conducted and participated in the following note-worthy
accomplishments.Training conducted the 2nd Phase of ATOM study with Wayne State
University on how Paramedics administer medications to pediatric patients.The Lansing
Fire Department will be cited in the study when complete. The Training Division started a
Recruit Academy in August.This Academy consists of 14 recruits. 6 dual certified recruits, 3
EMT certified that will complete Fire Training December 2024,and 5 recruits will complete
EMT School December will begin Fire Training February 2025.Two Recruits are currently
enrolled in Paramedic School and the remaining 12 are on track to be enrolled in
Paramedic School in June 2025. In conjunction with Recruit Academy,The Training Division
successfully completed annual required and incumbent training for its members. See
below.
Division Activity
• Conducted EMS Continuing Education classes and Annual American Heart
Association Renewal Courses (BLS,ACLS, PALS)
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• Conducted Driver Operator Continuing Training.
• Conducted Annual Confined Space Rescue Training
• Conducted Rapid Intervention Training / Rapid Intervention Crew Training
• Conducted Fire Ground Survival Training (Firefighter Self Rescue Skills)
• Conducted Water Rescue Training
• Conducted Ice Water Rescue Training
• Conducted HAZMAT Refresher Courses
• Conducted Officer Development Classes
• Conducted Annual Extrication Training
• Conducted Annual Forcible Entry Training
Contact Hours of Recorded Training
Contact Hours of Recorded Training 2024
EMS Training 8,924.5
Hazardous Materials Training 1282.5
Officer Training 1201.81
Recruit Training 1431.00
Specialty Training 4,388.82
Company & Other Training 12,773.18
Driver Operator 2,596.00
Total Training Hours (2024) 32,597.81
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT DIVISION
Personnel
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William Engelter is the division's Emergency Management Chief.Also working in the
division is Captain Jason Stevens.
Disaster Response
• Two fuel spill on Grand River
Special events
• 4th of July Fireworks
• Silver Bells in the City
Training and Exercise
• All EOC staff attended Great Lakes Homeland Security Conference
• Hosted a CERT initial training program
• Chief Engelter attended a National Fire Academy Community Risk Reduction training
• Captain Stevens taught and hosted Incident Command System 300/400 series
• Tabletop exercise for Mayor's cabinet was completed as part of an ongoing training
program
• Planned and participated in full scale exercise at Capital Region International
Airport
• Chief Engelter Attended FEMA Basic and Intermediate Emergency Operations Center
Functions
• Attended a statewide election security tabletop exercise
Volunteer Activity
• CERT class held and new members joined.
• CERT assisted with July 4th celebration,Silver Bells in the City and Recycle-Rama
• RACES assisted with July 4th celebration and Silver Bells in the City
• Captain Stevens co-coordinated the No Senior Without Christmas program and
distributed 400 totes of donated items to vulnerable senior citizens.
DolThing
The DolThing program is a 12-step program that is designed to help individuals,
businesses,and the community do 1 thing once a month to help become more resilient in
the event of an emergency. We work closely with local emergency management
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departments as a force multiplier,we have also started to build relationships with our local
hospitals,the Michigan Township Association,State of Michigan prevention departments,
211, Habitat for Humanity,and help other non-profits. We have also given presentations
and been a vendor in local preparedness fairs and home shows. The goal to build traction
for DolThing at this time is to be forward facing in the public, making sure the community
and vulnerable populations have the education and information needed to be more
prepared in the event of an emergency.
LOGISTICS DIVISION
Personnel
Logistics Chief Jwan Randle leads a team of two Maintenance Captains. Fire Admin
clerical staff assist with office responsibilities for the division. In addition to facility and
equipment maintenance and testing,the division provides needed logistical support at
major incidents through the delivery of breathing air,food and water to response
crews.
Division Responsibilities
The division partners with City of Lansing Property Management and IT to provide
attentive action for submitted work orders.Additionally,the division issues EMS
supplies, linen and equipment, maintains and repairs suppression equipment, provides
general office and cleaning supplies across all divisions, provides seasonal property
upkeep like snow plowing, lawn services and pest control,continually tests equipment
(SCBA units, hoses, ladders, etc.) and provides on-call response to structure fires for
Logistical support including provision of basic crew needs (oxygen,water,food,etc).
Division Highlights
• Implementation of BoundTree EMS Inventory for distribution and tracking
• Development of new LFD PSTrax asset management software program
• Secured a State Grant of $598,000 for personal protective equipment
• Acquired SCBA Scott Carbon Cylinder with valve for Scott Bottles in service
Current Projects
• Annual Ground and Aerial ladder testing Annual Fire Hose testing
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• Annual fire engine pump testing
• Relocation of fire equipment and supplies from the South Washington Office
Complex
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HUMAN RELATIONS & COMMUNITY
SERVICES
KIMBERLY A. COLEMAN, DIRECTOR
The City of Lansing Human Relations and Community Services (HRCS) Department is
dedicated to building a vibrant,connected community.Our mission involves coordinating
local human services, providing mediation and reconciliation, investigating complaints,
conducting community needs assessments,and securing funding to support city initiatives.
Our staff excels in grants management,contract development,comprehensive community
service planning,and managing federal,state,and local homeless grants while ensuring
effective monitoring and oversight.We deliver essential resources directly to underserved
Lansing residents through targeted outreach initiatives, promoting greater family stability.
As community needs evolve, HRCS is committed to assisting the human services sector
develop innovative solutions.We strive to enhance the quality of life for all Lansing citizens
by serving as a catalyst for positive change.We address social, economic,and cultural
challenges while fostering a sense of belonging and well-being among community
members and employees.
For 2024, our goals include promoting social equity,supporting social services, enhancing
community engagement,and fostering cultural diversity and inclusion through
collaboration and partnerships.
KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE HRCS DEPARTMENT
Over the past year,the Human Relations and Community Services (HRCS) Department has
made significant strides in promoting social equity,supporting social services,and
enhancing community engagement. Here are some of our key accomplishments:
PROMOTING SOCIAL EQUITY AND FOSTERING CULTURAL DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
HRCS has actively worked to reduce disparities and ensure equal access to resources,
services,and opportunities for all community members, regardless of their background,
race, ethnicity, gender,age, socioeconomic status,or abilities.We strengthened our citizen's
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complaint processes and expanded training opportunities, including the continued
implementation of the MRJEA Plan.Additionally,we filled critical vacant positions—such as
Critical Services Coordinator, DEI Officer, Commission Investigator,and Contract Managers—
all essential to promoting community services and social equity.
SUPPORTING SOCIAL SERVICES
HRCS has provided and supported various social services to meet the needs of vulnerable
populations.Our initiatives include programs focused on housing, mental health,substance
abuse prevention and treatment, gun violence prevention, healthcare,and emergency
assistance.We have identified options to supplement emergency shelter services in
response to capacity challenges,and our current plan is actively in effect.We also
organized a Health & Wellness Fair that featured an opioid awareness component,offering
numerous resources and on-site representatives from substance abuse agencies to assist
the community. Furthermore,we have enhanced our human services programs and
strengthened our internal infrastructure, including data management, updated policies and
procedures,and streamlined processes.
ENHANCING COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT, COLLABORATION, AND PARTNERSHIPS
HRCS is committed to fostering active citizen participation and engagement in decision-
making processes.This year,we hosted a Community Input Session on Homelessness and a
Community Housing Fair in collaboration with MSU Law.We also initiated a Homelessness
Study,which will conclude by the end of the year. In our efforts to promote racial equity,we
provided grant funding in partnership with agencies to support BIPOC organizations
addressing essential community services.
TEMPORARY SAFE OUT SPACES INITIATIVE
In response to the urgent needs of individuals experiencing homelessness, HRCS has
developed and proposed a plan for temporary safe out spaces.This initiative aims to
provide a secure living environment while connecting residents to sustainable housing
resources. By offering a reliable location for service providers to reach those in need,we
aim to supplement existing shelter services as they undergo development and expansion.
This effort is particularly vital during the winter months,ensuring that our unsheltered
neighbors remain safe and protected from inclement weather.As part of this initiative,we
have partnered with Holy Cross Services to expand their current bed capacity by 70,with
this expansion set to be available in December 2024.
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LONG-TERM STRATEGY FOR ADDRESSING HOMELESSNESS
In addition to immediate solutions, HRCS is committed to a long-term strategy for
addressing homelessness in Lansing.We have commissioned a comprehensive study
conducted by Public Policy Associates,which is expected to be completed by February 2025.
This study will provide critical insights into the current state of homelessness in our city,
drawing on direct input from individuals experiencing homelessness, service recipients,
providers,and other stakeholders.
The evaluation will focus on identifying actionable solutions and recommendations to
enhance residents' quality of life. By strengthening interventions and policies related to
prevention, housing stability,supportive services,and community integration,we aspire to
create a more sustainable and effective approach to addressing homelessness in Lansing.
Together,these initiatives underscore our commitment to fostering a compassionate and
responsive community that prioritizes the well-being of all its residents.
CONTRACT MANAGEMENT TEAM
The Contract Management Team plays a crucial role within the Human Relations and
Community Services (HRCS) Department,overseeing the allocation and administration of
the city's General Funds,as well as federal and state grants awarded to Lansing. Our team
ensures that all agencies utilize these funds appropriately and in compliance with relevant
guidelines,fostering accountability and transparency through rigorous oversight and
meticulous contract management processes.
The year 2024 kicked off with a collaborative effort alongside the Lansing Media Center,
resulting in an informative video presentation shared with our partner agencies.This video
conveyed our enthusiasm for the new year and the important work ahead,while also
outlining our plans for impromptu visits to provide valuable resources and information to
support their operations.
The video was well-received and effectively set the tone for our first major initiative—our
monitoring visits to agencies. During "Monitoring March,"we dedicated the month to
completing 60 monitoring visits,which allowed us to connect with agency leadership and
witness firsthand the impactful work being done.These visits went beyond compliance;
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they fostered new opportunities for assisting our partners in building their growth and
capacity.
Through transparent conversations,we addressed current concerns and future plans,
aligning our support with the evolving needs of the agencies.This direct engagement
strengthened our relationships and ensured the continued delivery of high-quality services
to our community. The Monitoring Report was presented to leadership providing valuable
insights into the needs and concerns of the agencies we fund.
HRCS CRITICAL SERVICES
January marked an exciting beginning as we welcomed our new Community Liaison and
Critical Services Coordinator (CLCSC).This position was created to provide essential
support to residents, serving as a key resource for information, referrals,and assistance in
resolving urgent situations.The CLCSC specializes in community outreach,engagement,
and advocacy,acting as a neutral link between the City of Lansing and the community
served by HRCS.
Working closely with the City Housing Ombudsman,the CLCSC is dedicated to preventing
homelessness and maximizing resources for residents living below the federal poverty
Level.This role involves administering and distributing funds from the Lansing Board of
Water and Light (LBWL) and Eviction Diversion programs. Frequently,families approach
HRCS facing extraordinary circumstances that require specialized guidance.The CLCSC
addresses these cases, providing crucial support to individuals with severe disabilities or
health issues, ensuring they navigate the complex systems necessary to receive
assistance. The CLCSC served families needing special advocacy,exemplifying the profound
impact this position has on our community. In addition,the CLCSC serves as an alternate
member of the Capital Area Community Services Board of Directors and the Audit, Budget,
and Finance Committee,attending monthly meetings that influence critical programs such
as Head Start, Utility Assistance, Housing, Financial Self-Sufficiency,and Food Security.The
CLCSC also actively participates in the Immigrant and Refugee Resource Collaborative
(IRRC),which unites over 50 partners from various sectors to address the needs of
newcomers in our community.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION
In 2020, Mayor Andy Schor established the Mayor's Racial Justice & Equity Alliance (MRJEA)
to assess and address systemic racism and violence in Lansing.To date, of the nine
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recommendations made by the MRJEA, six have been successfully implemented,two are
currently in progress,and the final recommendation is scheduled to commence in Spring
2025.
The DEI Advisory Board,created following the City Council's approval of the DEI ordinance
in April 2022, has been instrumental in promoting a community that values diversity and
strengthens relationships among Lansing's residents and leaders.
In 2024,the City appointed a new DEI Officer with extensive experience in DEI leadership,
bringing renewed focus to fostering inclusivity within City departments and across the
community. In February,the DEI Advisory Board held a retreat to establish priorities and
form subcommittees—Justice & Safety, Economic Empowerment,and Community
Sustainability—tasked with developing strategies and timelines to advance the MRJEA Plan.
The board continues to meet monthly to fulfill its core functions,which include
collaborating with DEI staff and external partners to advance citywide goals. In 2024,the
board conducted its first Ordinance Review of 297-The Human Rights Ordinance,ensuring
that the language and applications are current,equitable,and relevant for all Lansing
residents.Additionally,four new members were welcomed to fill vacancies on the board.
Equity Core Team (ECT)
Established in 2023,the Equity Core Team (ECT) is dedicated to advancing DEI initiatives
within City departments based on the MRJEA Report.Comprising 24 staff members from
various departments,the ECT coordinates and implements racial equity plans and activities.
Members have participated in comprehensive training sessions designed by the DEI Officer
and The Advocacy Group to facilitate a cultural shift within city operations.
In 2024,the ECT has made tangible progress in strengthening both community and internal
relationships,aligning departmental goals with the MRJEA Plan.
Racial Equity Grants
In 2024, City Council appropriated funds to support strategies addressing systemic racism
through the Racial Equity Fund Grant Program.This initiative provides resources for
programs and policies that promote equity and empower marginalized communities,
prioritizing BIPOC-led organizations,so every resident, regardless of race, has the
opportunity to thrive. Funded program categories include health and wellness access,
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economic stability, inclusion for individuals with diverse abilities, arts and culture,
sustainable environments,and support for youth and fami Lies.Thirty-eight organizations
applied for funding,and 11 local agencies were awarded funding to implement these
programs.The next funding cycle is set to begin in June 2025,with applications due in
January 2025.
2024 Celebration of Diversity
In collaboration with the Mayor's Office and other City departments, HRCS hosted the 4th
Annual Celebration of Diversity in June 2024.This event welcomed approximately 150
attendees,featuring diverse cuisine and performances by local talent.
Additional Cultural Events in 2024:
• Pride Flag Raising: Held on May 31, 2024,with city leaders and LGBTO+ groups
celebrating Lansing's commitment to acceptance and inclusivity.
• Juneteenth Flag Raising: On June 19, 2024,we honored the emancipation of
enslaved African Americans and their contributions to the nation.
• Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration: Co-sponsored with the Mayor's Office and
Lansing Promise on September 16, 2024.
• 44th Annual Memorial Observance of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: Hosted on
January 11, 2024, in partnership with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.
• Native American Heritage Month Proclamation: Presented at the November 4,2024,
City Council meeting.
COMMISSION INVESTIGATOR
The Commission Investigator (CI) independently reviews and investigates citizen
complaints regarding police misconduct,serving as an impartial resource for addressing
concerns involving both sworn officers and civilian staff of the Lansing Police Department
(LPD).This role is critical for enhancing police oversight, providing a fair,efficient,and
timely process for addressing misconduct allegations.The CI is dedicated to building public
trust in law enforcement and ensuring all complaints are thoroughly managed.
After a vacancy lasting several months,the CI position was filled in May 2024. Since then,
the office has continued to build on foundational work established in 2023, particularly
through the MRJEA initiatives and Executive Directive 2023-02.These frameworks have
provided a strong foundation for advancing police oversight,enhancing community trust,
and ensuring greater accountability within the LPD.The CI has leveraged findings from the
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MRJEA report to further support Executive Directive 2023-02, leading to the establishment
of the Citizen Complaint Oversight Committee (CCOC) and expanding the CI's authority to
manage all citizen complaints from inception to resolution.
The CI has collaborated closely with the Board of Police Commissioners (BOPC) to
implement the articles of Executive Directive 2023-02.Additionally,the CI facilitated CCOC
meetings and reviewed over 20 completed investigations to ensure thorough and fair
handling of all cases.
The CI actively investigates police misconduct complaints while modernizing the complaint
process to align with best practices. In addition to managing general cases,the CI has
handled numerous inquiries from citizens seeking assistance.
Other activities include:
• Participating in LPD hiring processes as a member of various interview panels.
• Providing monthly complaint summaries to the CCOC and facilitating meaningful
discussions among subcommittee members.
• Increasing accessibility for citizens to submit police complaints by incorporating a
OR code on the BOPC Citizen Complaint brochure and creating a simplified
document outlining the complaint process.
• Attending BOPC meetings to report on investigation outcomes.
• Enhancing collaboration with Internal Affairs to foster a respectful working
relationship.
Community Engagement
To build credibility and rapport with the community,the CI has participated in National
Night Out and attended several neighborhood watch events. By engaging with community
members and participating in monthly Advocates and Leaders for Police and Community
Trust (ALPACT) meetings,the CI is committed to strengthening ties and enhancing trust
between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
MOBILE FOOD PANTRY [MFP]
The MFP addresses food insecurity through a partnership with the Greater Lansing Food
Bank,collaborating with area churches and dedicated volunteers. Operating on the third
Saturday of each month,the MFP delivers food directly to seniors and subsidized housing
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sites. During an eleven-month period from January to November,we served 491
households, impacting 11,509 individuals with over 105.9 tons of food at a cost of $28,098.
UTILITY ASSISTANCE
HRCS maintains an ongoing partnership with the Lansing Board of Water and Light (LBWL)
to provide funding for residential customers to maintain or restore utility services, reducing
the risk of evictions and homelessness. In 2024,we received approximately 3,266 calls and
follow-up emails for assistance. Utility assistance cases from January through November
totaled $31,989, leveraging funds from various community resources,totaling $27,368.
HRCS BIRTH CERTIFICATE PROGRAM
Launched in May 2023,the HRCS Birth Certificate Program assists underserved individuals
in obtaining birth certificates necessary for housing,employment, benefits,and education.
Referrals are required from local agencies. From January to November 2024,we processed
54 birth certificates at a cost of $2,115.55.
LET'S SHARE THE WARMTH COAT DRIVE AND COMMUNITY CONNECT
HRCS spearheaded the "Let's Share the Warmth"Coat Drive from August 26 to November
15,collecting over 455 coats,gloves,and scarves from the community.Combined with
existing inventory,we distributed a total of 566 coats and 300 bags containing essential
items during the Community Connect: Hunger & Homelessness Awareness event, impacting
over 300 individuals.
HEALTH & WELLNESS FAIR
On August 1, HRCS hosted the inaugural Health & Wellness Fair on the State Capitol Lawn,
promoting holistic health and addressing opioid awareness and harm reduction.The event
attracted 211 attendees and featured 52 community agencies.Attendees received wellness
items and participated in health talks,culminating in a poignant dedication of purple
streamers to honor lives lost to the opioid crisis.
ADOPT-A-FAMILY FOR CHRISTMAS
HRCS partnered with The Salvation Army to organize the Adopt-A-Family for Christmas
outreach, impacting approximately 29 individuals. Eight city departments volunteered to
support families in need, providing around $2,900 worth of holiday assistance.
HOUSING OMBUDSMAN ENGAGEMENT
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Addressing rental housing concerns is a priority for HRCS.The Housing Ombudsman
responded to 488 inquiries related to homelessness resolutions,general housing questions,
and tenant-landlord disputes.We continue to engage landlords to promote responsible
practices and improve relationships between tenants and landlords.
Through these initiatives, HRCS remains dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all
Lansing residents,fostering a community that prioritizes support,equity, and well-being.
HRCS continues to engage landlords to promote responsible rental practices and positive
relationships with City departments and educate tenants about their rights including fair
housing protections. Along with Legal Services of South-Central Michigan,the
Ombudsman helped organize and was a panel member of a housing rights discussion for
residents including those from the former Autumn Ridge Apartments. The Ombudsman
also served on a panel discussion about housing rights and resources for first-time home
buyers at an event sponsored by the local National Association of Negro Business and
Professional Women's Clubs (NANBPWC).
Eviction Diversion
The Eviction Diversion program provides financial assistance to individuals with housing
vouchers or those living in subsidized housing. In 2024, HRCS received 147 inquiries for
assistance resulting in a disbursement of $49,762.77 in rental assistance to 60 households
at risk of eviction, helping them avoid eviction. HRCS leveraged an additional $32,913.31 in
funding from partners such as DHHS, St.Vincent DePaul,and other agencies to expand
support. HRCS works closely with these partners to maximize support and keep residents
housed.With the conclusion of the CERA program and rising rent costs,the demand for
utility and rental assistance is expected to increase in the coming year.
Affordable Housing
According to HUD,there is an estimated shortage of 8,000 affordable housing units,and
the number of landlords accepting Section 8 Housing Vouchers has declined since the
pandemic. HRCS will continue collaborating with stakeholders to promote policies that
enhance housing affordability and access for Lansing residents.The Housing Ombudsman
participates in the Regional Housing Partnership Work Group, organized by the Tri-County
Regional Planning Commission,to set community goals and secure MSHDA funding.
Additionally,the Housing Ombudsman serves on the Ingham County Housing Trust Fund
Committee,which has approved nearly $11 million to expand affordable housing and will
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be responsible for the allocation of approximately $5 million annually from the new
Ingham County Housing Millage.
Housing Rights & Resource Fair
The Housing Ombudsman organized the City's first bi-annual housing rights community
event in partnership with MSU Housing Justice Clinic. Over 80 residents attended,and 40
agencies and City departments participated. MSU Housing Justice Clinic staff made a fair
housing rights presentation and were able to provide valuable one-on-one guidance on
housing issues. Representatives from the City of Lansing Code Enforcement, Financial
Empowerment and other EDP staff were present to answer questions about City
services. Attendees were also able to gather information about resources such as programs
for home repair, utility savings,first-time home ownership,eviction prevention and utility
shut-off protection among many others.
Housing Emergencies
When emergencies occur (fire displacement, landlord negligence or other crisis) residents
need assurance and assistance. HRCS will continue to coordinate with LPD, LFD and EDP
and work with agencies such as Holy Cross Community Services and American Red Cross to
help during these tragedies. HRCS has established a hotel program to help with overnight
shelter for families or senior citizens who have a physical disability and need to vacate
their homes when LPD or LFD respond to emergencies. In addition,the Housing
Ombudsman has assisted volunteers from the Red Cross when a weekend fire displaced 13
residents from an apartment complex to facilitate housing arrangements and was on-site
to assist when 18 long-term residents were forced out of a motel and needed shelter
accommodations. The Housing Ombudsman also assists with providing residents with
door-to-door resources and information when code enforcement and EDP must take action
on multi-dwelling complexes.
Rent Smart
The HRCS Housing Ombudsman oversees this unique Renter Education workshop
series. The four-week intensive, interactive class is designed to better equip participants to
Locate and maintain quality and affordable housing. Rent Smart assists Lansing residents
struggling to overcome barriers such as poor credit, past evictions, or a lack of rental
experience; HRCS will work to resume and expand in-person classes Rent Smart in 2025.
Through these initiatives, HRCS remains dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all
Lansing residents,fostering a community that prioritizes support,equity,and well-being.
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HUMAN RESOURCES
ELIZABETH O'LEARY, DIRECTOR
The Department of Human Resources is the central unit for all things"employee" related
for the City of Lansing.The Department consists of five (5) distinctly different divisions that
work together to provide support to our internal and external customers.This year has
been a year of continuing to learn, grow,and foster relationships throughout the
organization. I continue to be proud of the progress that has been made in each division
and look forward to the changes and efficiencies that we will continue to make in the
coming year.This is the department that employees often come to for assistance,from the
initial job application to filing retirement paperwork and all of life's joys and challenges in
between.We are the heart of the organization,and it is our pleasure to serve the City of
Lansing employees in each phase of life as well as the community. Below are a few brief
highlights of our accomplishments throughout this year.
HEALTH & WELLNESSISAFETY
The Health and Wellness/Safety Division is charged with administering the City's workers
compensation program, processing Family Medical Leave Act and Reasonable
Accommodation paperwork,ensuring that safety standards are followed,and various other
compliance measures.
This year,the division processed 124 new workers compensation claims in addition to the
70 that were ongoing from prior years.We were able to close seven litigated claims and
two claims through voluntary payment agreements.
In the Safety subsection of this division,an estimated 1,925 hours were spent on 20
different training sessions.Twenty-four safety programs and 837 safety data sheets were
updated.Twelve comprehensive safety audits were conducted across the organization.
Twenty-seven safety committee meetings were held to foster collaboration and continuous
improvement in this area.
We also welcomed a new member to this division,our Health and Wellness Technician,who
joined the team in September 2024.
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HIRING
The Hiring Division facilitates hiring processes across the organization for every city
department.This division is comprised of Hiring Specialists and a Lead Hiring Manager.
Reducing vacancies is always the top priority for this division,along with continuing to
streamline and identify efficiencies in the hiring process.The division has continued
process mapping and implementing meaningful changes to reduce timelines of the hiring
process to serve the needs of the organization and the community.
Overall,this division facilitated in various ways,the hiring of 313 employees this year,of
various classifications, inclusive of full-time permanent hires,trainees, recruits, part-time,
seasonal, contract,and temporary employees within the Parks Department.These results
are in conjunction with creating selection processes which include every step of the hiring
process and shepherding the reclassification process, pursuant to the collective bargaining
agreements and attending recruitment events.
LABOR RELATIONS
The Employee and Labor Relations Division's scope of responsibilities includes
participating in negotiations of collective bargaining agreements,administering the
grievance process, recommending and implementing solutions for workplace disputes,and
ensuring that employees receive due process in disciplinary action.This division also
investigates and provides recommendations on how to resolve internal complaints.This
division organized a supervisory training in conjunction with Davenport University for
multiple employees across the organization.
In 2024,the division,along with the Chief Labor Negotiator, ratified the non-economic
provisions of the Capitol City Labor Program, Inc. Non-Supervisory Agreement. The division
is also negotiated multiple memorandums of understanding with various union groups.We
started negotiations with Teamsters Local 214 and Teamsters Local 243 and look forward
to continuing the process in the coming year.
PAYROLL AND BENEFITS
The Payroll and Benefits Division administers employee and retiree benefits including
healthcare,vision, dental, life insurance,and other negotiated and adopted benefits for the
City of Lansing.When a new employee joins the City of Lansing team, regardless of the
department they are entering,the first stop is Payroll and Benefits.This team facilitates
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new hire orientation where benefits and policies are reviewed.Throughout employment,
employees engage with the Payroll and Benefits team for open enrollment,employment
verifications,changes to personal information and various other related issues.We were
excited to welcome a new member to the team this year,filling our vacancy within the
division.
This team is responsible for processing payroll for all active and retired employees as well
as facilitating direct deposit changes, processing 19 forms,and providing exceptional
customer service when investigating important and time sensitive healthcare and dental
issues.
When new collective bargaining agreements are ratified,the payroll and benefits team is
responsible for most of the tasks in facilitating implementation of the new terms.This
requires a specialized knowledge base,and our team is always proactive in ensuring that
the terms are implemented in a timely manner with respect to the intent of the
agreements. Below are a few of the highlights from this division:
• 131 orientations
147 employment verifications
• 571 direct deposit changes for actives and retirees
• 126+ payrolls processed
• Open enrollment for actives and retirees
• 731 Medicare Part B changes in the system
• 521 address changes
• 138 qualifying event letters
• Upgraded finance enterprise (payroll software) in Spring 2024
• Currently transitioning to a new payroll platform (BS&A)
RETIREMENT
The Retirement Office oversees the retirement process inclusive of applications,
calculations of benefits,and education on the process.We are pleased to report that we
welcomed a new member to the team,our Retirement Technician,earlier this year.This
division staffs the Police and Fire Pension Board and the Employee Retirement System
Board.This team also staffs the Deferred Compensation Board and the Defined
Contribution Board.
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Throughout this year,the Retirement Office calculated and processed 70 retirements.This
is inclusive of 12 beneficiaries, 52 regular age and service retirements,two disability
retirements,and four domestic relation orders. Eighty-six meetings were held to explain
and/or begin the retirement process via Zoom,over the phone,and in person.The team
processed 40 deaths,six refunds,and 20 life insurance claims.
This division also interfaces with the City's actuary and provides demographic and
investment data for required actuarial reports.This is inclusive of the data that was needed
for the State of Michigan Pension Grant Program for the Employees Retirement System.
One of the major accomplishments of this year for the division was planning and hosting
the City of Lansing Retirement and Health Care Conference for employees, retirees,and
partners.This event has not been held since 2017,and it was a pleasure to work with the
boards to host and plan this event.
Some of the other highlights from this division include the following:
• Assisted with the transition of vendors for the Defined Contribution Plan
• Assisted with the transition of vendors for the VEBA Plan
• Training of the new Retirement Technician
• Prepared monthly payroll, added new beneficiaries, retirees, adjustments, calculated
contribution refunds, etc.
• Calculation of benefit adjustments
• Ongoing retirement software update
• Conversions from disability retirement to age and service retirement
• Coordinating medical evaluations
• Assisted with the collection of OPEB material
• Processing quarterly cash flow withdraws
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INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
CHRISTOPHER MUMBY, CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER
The Information Technology Department of the City of Lansing is dedicated to identifying
and implementing technology solutions that enhance the city's capabilities, improve
operational efficiency,and support informed decision-making.The department provides a
wide range of services, including hardware and software systems,telephony solutions, IT
project management,data and information security, infrastructure management, network
implementation and support,as well as end-user support and training.
CLIENT SERVICES MANAGER
The Client Services Manager (CSM) oversees the day-to-day operations of the client
services team and assists the Chief Information Officer (CIO) in strategic planning for the IT
department's long-term direction. In fiscal year 2024,the CSM provided daily oversight and
contributed to the following special projects:
• Assisted with project planning and implementation for CORE switch replacement.
• Drafted Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to ensure alignment with the City's goals and
objectives, enabling competitively bid services and solutions.
• Wrote and managed the City of Lansing Internet Service Provider RFP process,from
initial draft to final contract.
• Contributed to project planning for the SWOC relocation.
• Provided support for budget planning,vendor management,and purchasing.
• Supplied information for three audits (Lansing Police Department and 54A Courts
Michigan State Police audits) to ensure compliance.
• Managed the Cold Case digital storage project from procurement to installation.
• Assisted the Lansing Police Department (LPD) with decision-making and
management of new patrol laptop and Cradlepoint deployment.
• Collaborated with teams to provide IT direction for technical architecture at the new
Public Safety, City Hall,and Ovation buildings.
SECURITY ADMINISTRATOR
The Security Administrator safeguards the City of Lansing's systems and accounts against
cybersecurity threats by monitoring vulnerabilities and addressing potential risks.Working
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with the Helpdesk and Infrastructure teams,this role ensures systems remain secure
through maintenance and updates. Key accomplishments in 2024 include:
• Upgraded the mobile device management system.
• Expanded the use of Duo Security for two-factor authentication.
• Transitioned from legacy encryption software to full-disk encryption.
• Integrated applications with a central identity provider using single sign-on.
• Enhanced email authentication to reduce spoofing risks.
• Initiated the Windows 11 upgrade process for city devices.
• Increased network security by implementing workstation firewalls.
PROJECT MANAGER
The IT Project Manager plays a vital role in overseeing IT infrastructure and enterprise
application projects across the city.This role involves building vendor relationships,
coordinating demonstrations, managing contracts,creating project plans,and keeping
stakeholders informed. Major initiatives from the past year include:
• Partnered with 11 departments to implement a records management repository
with security, audit trails,and retention policies.
• Coordinated the elimination of Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS) lines citywide,
rolling out MS Teams phone systems and department-specific licensing.
• Implemented e-faxing solutions, providing demonstrations and support.
• Assisted the Applications Team in deploying an electronic personnel database for
HR,enabling electronic records for active and retired employees.
APPLICATIONS TEAM
The Applications Team manages city-operated software applications,ensuring they are
monitored, upgraded,and supported.The team works closely with vendors, project
managers,and city staff to enhance processes and meet compliance requirements. Key
accomplishments include:
GIS PROJECTS
• Enhanced the Ingham County 911 database for improved emergency response.
• Migrated users to updated ESRI GIS products and infrastructure.
• Partnered with the Cle rk's Office to update citywide ward, precinct,and polling
maps.
• Collaborated with Parks and Recreation to plan a foldable city parks and trails map.
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BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE [BI] AND DATA ANALYTICS
• Finalized internal help desk ticket dashboards.
• Built a tax compliance dashboard for the Tax Department.
• Launched a parking ramp dashboard to track available spaces in city-owned lots.
• Upgraded Timextender to align with SOL Server enhancements.
UPGRADES AND MIGRATIONS
• Upgraded Rectrac software for Parks & Recreation.
• Supported the BS&A cloud migration, including training and troubleshooting.
CITYSOURCED CLEANUP
• Assisted departments in resolving over 3,000+ service requests from a backlog of
6,000.
CITYWORKS ENHANCEMENTS
• Upgraded Cityworks to version 15.8.4 and prepared for future updates.
• Developed new workflows, including post-inspection processes and trash ROW
tracking.
INFRASTRUCTURE TEAM
The Infrastructure Team maintains the City's data center, network,and IT services,ensuring
seamless operations.Their achievements in 2024 include:
• Modernized technology by upgrading firmware, UPS systems, and Horizon (VDI).
• Installed Dell Isilon storage for CJIS compliance.
• Facilitated rapid data center fiber installation with the City of Lansing planning, City
of Lansing Property Management, City of Lansing IT, Comcast,and the House of
Representatives (State of Michigan).
• Deployed new core network equipment to enhance speed and capacity.
• Relocated departments from SWOC that then needed network services to multiple
sites around the city.
• Supported design,vendor coordination and install for updated camera technology
for Lansing Police and Parking.
• Assisted with technology planning for the Public Safety Building.
HELPDESK
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The Helpdesk team provides daily technical support,troubleshooting, and technology
solutions across city departments. Highlights from the past year include:
• Resolved over 11,000+ helpdesk tickets with a customer satisfaction score of 4.84
out of 5.
• Deployed over 150 new laptops and desktops across city departments.
• Rolled out 55+ laptops for Lansing police vehicles.
• Upgraded and deployed MS Teams conference rooms citywide.
• Assisted in the citywide Windows 11 upgrade process.
• Implemented a new mobile device management system.
• Addressed along with Security administrator the global CrowdStrike outage.
These highlights demonstrate the IT department's dedication to advancing the
City of Lansing's technology capabilities while ensuring efficiency, security, and
exceptional day to day service delivery.
LANSING PUBLIC MEDIA CENTER
JASON GABRIEL, DIRECTOR
Lansing Public Media Center successes this year include a new North Capital space, 5000
equipment checkouts, new 4K video gear,and dozens of new producers making new
shows!
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The Lansing Public Media Center (LPMC) proudly oversees the city's Public, Educational,
and Government (PEG) digital media networks. Our team expertly manages the day-to-day
operations of City-TV,the city's government channel,and Community-TV, Lansing's vibrant
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public access channel.Through our dedication,we ensure that Lansing's residents stay
informed, educated,and entertained.
We are committed to empowering our community members
by teaching and enriching their video production skills,all
aimed at enhancing our region.We capture and showcase the
tl EMMM incredible happenings in the City of Lansing like Silver Bells
in the City and Concerts in the Park, leading the charge in community events and video
productions,to foster a vibrant culture of storytelling across Mid-Michigan.
It's been a fast-paced and momentous year for the Lansing Public Media Center,with new
faces and characters enriching our space in the North Capitol Ramp.These talented
individuals have expanded their skill sets,creating exciting new shows and videos.As we
pave the way to our future home at the new Ovation Music and Art Center on Washington
Ave.,we proudly celebrated our 5,OOOth checkout of video production equipment to
community members.Their creative endeavors in our studio are not only for the
Community-TV station but also reach audiences far beyond Lansing.
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We produce City-TV programs covering City of
Lansing goings-on including the grand
openings of the Lansing Gateway, the
Women's Walk of Fame and fitness courts.
These programs premiere weekly on
Thursdays at 7 p.m. on City-TV. We've also -
recorded in all 111 parks with the Parks and r
Rec Department this year, creating the ALL-
Parks Review series.
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We produce live the City of Lansing Committee of the Whole and City Council Meetings
and have this year doubled our live Government content with the addition of the Charter
Commission Meeting and eight other committees streaming live from the 10th Floor of
David Hollister Lansing City Hall.
We've created and accomplished so much this year, including:
• 62 TV programs produced by City-TV (available on the City of Lansing YouTube
channel or streams); watch here.
• 18 additional videos used to promote the City of Lansing and the extraordinary
number of great programs run by the City of Lansing.
• 54 Committee of the Whole and City Council meetings produced by City-TV.
• 16 Charter Commission Meetings produced and streamed (available on demand or
in our 24/7 hour stream); watch here.
• 75 additional City of Lansing Legislative Committee Meetings streamed live and on-
demand at the City Council YouTube channel.
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OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY
GREGORY VENKER, CITY ATTORNEY
The Office of the City Attorney provides legal services to the City of Lansing as a municipal
corporation.We represent the City in courts and administrative hearings both defending
and prosecuting claims; we review all documents involving the City including contracts,
resolutions and ordinances, bonds,and other written instruments; and we provide legal
advice and answers to legal questions from all components and departments of the City.
For this reason, it is often difficult to measure or quantify accomplishments as other
departments might.We set our benchmarks against our expertise and teamwork to provide
correct answers and represent the City's legal interests.
In 2024, the office went through significant personnel changes with the retirement of City
Attorney in March,the confirmation of a new City Attorney in May,two attorney departures in
July, and four new attorney hires in August and September. New attorneys together with a
core of experienced and devoted attorneys in the office provided high level services to the
City,including:
DISTRICT COURT CRIMINAL PROSECUTION
• Prosecuted approximately 3315 criminal cases,and approximately 110 court-ordered
compliance cases on matters of Housing, Building, Fire,and Zoning Codes
• Prepared for approximately 117 scheduled jury trials and formal hearings,with 5 jury
trials conducted to verdict
• Coordinated with victims of crime to be heard in Court, consistent with Michigan's
Crimes Victim's Rights Act
CIVIL LITIGATION INVOLVING THE CITY
MATTERS INITIATED BY THE CITY OF LANSING:
• Cityof Lansing v. Woodside MeodowsApts Owner,,LLC— Petition granted in Federal Court
for receivership of neighborhood sized apartment complex on health, safety, and
welfare grounds
• City of Lansing v. Merica Media Group — reached settlement agreement regarding use
of the City Seal in political messaging.
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MATTERS RESOLVED THIS YEAR:
54A District Court:
• Howlett v. City of Lansing -dismissed
• Martin v.Lansing Police Department - dismissed
• Simmons v. City of Lansing -dismissed
• Speck v. City of Lansing -dismissed
• Walker v. Lansing Police Department, et al. - dismissed
30th Circuit Court:
• CCLP v. City of Lansing - settled
• Fowler v. City of Lansing - dismissed
• Sampson v. City of Lansing - dismissed
• Borisch v.MD Industries - As a non-party to a receivership matter,successfully argued
against the Receiver's Motion requesting that the circuit court judge unilaterally
adjust a personal property tax assessment after the Receiver failed to properly request
a review of the assessment to the Lansing Assessor's Office or appeal the matter to
the Michigan Tax Tribunal.
Western District Federal Court:
• Khorromi v. City of Lansing, et al.- settled
• Lynn v. City of Lansing - settled
• Lynn v. City of Lansing,et at. -settled
• Stewart, G.v. City of Lansing,et al.- settled
• Stewart,S.v. City of Lansing, et al. - settled
Administrative Complaints:
• EEOC/MIOSHA: Bazzi -dismissed
• MDCR: Moore - dismissed; Shuck- dismissed; Smith - dismissed
• MTT: Eydel Properties IV, LLC - consent judgment entered
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
• Managed the receipt and utilization of$40 Million State grant for downtown housing
• Managed the receipt and utilization of $40 Million State grant for a new City Hall
• Drafted and managed the execution of sale agreement for existing City Hall once new
City Hall is occupied
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• Worked extensively with Developer team, Lansing Economic Development
Corporation, and Michigan Economic Development Corporation to submit the first
application for a Transformational Brownfield Project in Lansing
• Continued to provide services to City building projects launched in 2023, the $175
Million Public Safety Campus and the $20 Million Ovation Entertainment Center
• Worked with the City Clerk for acceptance of $7 Million State grant and purchase of
new property for exclusive use as Lansing's voting headquarters
LABOR RELATIONS
• Assist Human Resources and the Chief Labor Negotiator in addressing labor relations
issues.This includes arbitrations,unfair labor practice claims,and reviewing proposed
changes and edits to collective bargaining agreements.
CIVIL CLAIMS REVIEW
• Processed 4 Personal Injury, 35 Property Damage and 96 Special Assessment Claims
for damage against the City, outside of litigation
• Continued to adapt the claims review process through coordination among
contractors,Code Compliance and OCA
CONTRACTS
• Manually: Drafted or reviewed 48 contracts including employment contracts
• Electronically: Drafted or reviewed 71 recommendation letters, 147 employee
contracts, 167 activity Licenses, 102 marijuana related applications,and 535 contracts
FOIA
• Received and processed 1,198 FOIA requests,and 46 subpoenas
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
• Staff and provide answers to legal questions posed by Boards and Commissions
composed of citizen volunteers
• Provide 24-hour service to City departments such as LPD and LFD as situations arise
during non-business hours
• Continued participation in Emergency Management Training
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• Continue to provide detailed review, approval, and assistance for the receipt and
delivery of several extraordinary fundings related to ARPA and COVID pandemic
legislation
• Monitor the Charter Commission to be prepared with answers to questions about
existing Charter,and assist Clerk with legal requirements for staffing the Commission
LEGISLATIVE SERVICES
• Staff all City Council and City Council committees
• Drafted or Reviewed 291 resolutions or ordinances for Council action
• Provide Deputy City Attorney - City Council Liaison to provide answers to legal
questions posed by the Council and Councilmembers about several matters
LEGAL COMMUNITY
• Employed a regular staff of interns throughout the year to gain assistance in research
and provide knowledge of municipal law and government
• Worked with students in new practicum class at MSU School of Law based around
municipal policy projects
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DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND
RECREATION
BRETT KASCHINSKE, DIRECTOR
The Department of Parks and Recreation creates community through people,parks and programs.
The mission of the Parks and Recreation department is to enhance lifestyle opportunities for the
citizens of the Lansing through the provision of leisure time activities and the preservation and
maintenance of parklands and special recreation facilities. The Department accomplishes this
mission in the following ways:
• organization of youth, adult and senior citizen recreational programming in parks, four
community centers,swimming pools,and a historic home;
• regular maintenance of all parks and natural areas owned by the City of Lansing, including
maintenance of Lansing's urban forest areas through regular cycles of tree planting,
fertilization and trimming;
• providing burial services and cemetery maintenance at the City's three municipal cemeteries;
• providing public golfing opportunities at Groesbeck Golf Course which supports recreational
and league play in the area;
• provision of special recreation facilities such as Ranney Skate Park,Soldon Dog Park,Gier Park
BMX Bicycle and Pump Track,Cooley Gardens,Frances Park Rose Garden and the Lansing River
Trail linear park; Fenner Nature Center; Beacon Field; National Fitness Campaign Fitness
Courts and AA RP FitLot;
• sustained working partnerships with the Lansing School District,Fenner Conservancy, Ingham
County Parks, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan Natural Resources Trust
Fund, Michigan Department of Transportation, Lansing Community College, Capital Region
Community Foundation, Michigan State University, YMCA of Metropolitan Lansing, Michigan
Waterways Stewards and various community organizations.
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The Department receives advisory support from the citizens of Lansing by encouraging their
involvement in the following citizen groups: City of Lansing Parks Board,Friends of Turner-Dodge,
Fenner Conservancy, the Leisure Services Advisory Board, the Baseball and Softball advisory
boards and multiple park"Friends"groups.
The Department provides support in policy decisions regarding recreational options and facilities
to the Mayor and City Council.
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION 2024
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Landscape,Park Design,Development and Grounds
MNRTF Grants TF21-0169 ($300,000) and TF21-0170 ($300,000) Fenner/Corporate Center
River Trail Pathway Extension from Aurelius/Mt Hope through Fenner Nature Center and
Evergreen Cemetery to the east side of US 127 on Forest Road. Trail opened at Fenner
November 7, 2024.
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Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) grant application TF24-0013 for $400,000
was submitted to the State for improvements to the river lot at Frances and received a
preliminary high score of 390 points. This score would allude to receiving the grant.
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MNRTF 2025-2030 Parks 5-Year Recreation Plan planning has begun with Spicer Group.
Public input questions are being developed in cooperation with the Park Board.
Washington Park was renamed Stabenow Park after Debbie Stabenow. Stabenow was the
first female U.S. Senator,a seat she has held since 2001. The pavilion was updated and
relocated in the park for better access,art panels were installed along the pathway,and a
new outdoor fitness court was installed.
Stabenow Park (Washington) Pavilion Relocation,Art Panels,and Fitness Court:
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Received $6.2 million dollars in state funding for the restoration of Moores Park Pool.
Construction began June 2024 with Rhino Construction.
After being destroyed by fire, Fulton Park Overlook was rebuilt at the cost of $113,000 with
an inlaid map of the Grand River, benches and a bike repair station.
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100,000 pump track with two tracks for different skiLL LeveLs and accessibiLity was
instaLLed at the BMX track at Gier Park.
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New safety engineered wood fiber was installed at 36 park playgrounds throughout the
city.
Parking lot crack sealing was completed at Foster Center, Foster Park, River Trail, Evergreen
Cemetery,and Mt Hope Cemetery.
Laser Sport repainted tennis lines and added pickleball lines at the Elmhurst Park tennis
courts, resurfaced Letts tennis courts in the amount of $45,000 and resurfaced the tennis
courts at Ranney Park and added pickleball lines for $32,300.
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Clifford Park tennis courts were resurfaced and painted for 6 pickleball courts and 1 tennis
court at the cost of $264,000.
A walking trail map with mileage indicators was placed at Bancroft 3-mile loop walking
trail.
Lansing River Trail fence repairs were made at the Elm Street bridge along the Grand River
totaling $93,000.
Removed tropical plants from various parks and wintered in the greenhouse, reducing
overall spending for grounds maintenance including the annual flower order.
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Monitored roses at Frances Park for rosettes disease, removing 11 additional plants to
avoid the spread of the disease.
Added a memorial bench to the overlook at Frances Park.
Repaired, repainted or removed several damaged tables and benches throughout the parks.
Cleared the overgrown wood line at Frances Park leading to the overlook for a more
appealing view.
Repaired and painted signs at Adado Riverfront and Rotary Parks and Cooley Gardens.
Participated in numerous unhoused encampments under Shiawassee, Kalamazoo and
Saginaw Bridges.
Assisted parking division with equipment for extra plants and flowers.
Assisted Old Town Commercial Association with landscaping and extra seasonal flowers.
Ribbon cutting is planned for Spring 2025 for the Ranney Park Montgomery Drain Project.
This 11-acre design features a complex series of detention basins,channels,waterfalls,and
wetlands to filter pollutants from storm water that drains into the Red Cedar River.
Volunteers
Michigan Waterways Stewardship organized several river cleanup sessions resulting in 811
volunteers, 3,042 volunteer hours and removal of 39,683 pounds of litter,trash and 40
cubic yards of trees and brush.
Riverview Church volunteers trimmed vegetation and cleanup at Elm Park, RiverPoint Park
and along the River Trail.
MSU Crew Club performed a major cleanup of debris on the Red Cedar River at Kruger
Lansing.
Century 21 agents placed over 2,500 flags at Mt. Hope Cemetery on veteran's graves in
observance of Memorial Day.
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Maner Costerisan employees participated in Maner Cares Day and raised the tree canopy,
picked up debris and chipped branches at Durant Park.
Cooley Garden volunteers held 23 sessions totaling 260 hours throughout 2024 to prune,
deadhead flowers,trim, mulch and pull weeds.
The Greater Lansing Garden Club maintains Scott Sunken Gardens and has a dedicated
crew to plant, mulch,weed, deadhead and water the garden. In addition,they oversee the
maintenance of the Blue Star Memorial Garden at Frances Park and perform the same
service.
MSU students from CSUS 476 — Natural Resource Based Recreation and Management
course assisted in planting 25 trees at Sycamore Disc Golf Course.
Friends of Lansing Regional Trails preformed several trail cleanups throughout the year.
Meijer shipping employees picked up trash and replaced the wind screen at Rudolph and
Dorothy Wilson Park.
MSU pre-med students picked up trash at Davis Park and along the consumers pathway.
Members of South Lansing Business Association cleaned up along the road and fence line
on Amwood Drive in south Lansing.
Grants/Awards (RivertraiL,DNR,Neighborhood, MiCorps)
Received $5,000 grant from MiCorps Volunteer Stream Cleanup Program for river cleanup.
Received National Fitness Campaign grant for $50,000 for Davis Park Fitness Court
construction; project completion will be spring 2025.
Fratcher trust annual grant funds in the amount of $54,807 were received for the Mount
Hope Columbarium 4t" wall and $15,550 for the Fratcher Memorial Garden ornamental
chain and post fencing installation.
MNRTF Grants TF23-0032 ($300,000) and TF23-0043 ($500,000) for land acquisitions were
approved by State Legislature.
Parks benefited from Neighborhood Grants with a concrete chess table at Poxson Park,
horseshoe pits at Bancroft Park, grills at Scott Woods Park, ornate trash cans at Beacon Park
and grants for e-sports items at Foster, Gier and Schmidt.
Stacey McNamara was elected mParks Focus Area Chairperson for Aquatics and a member
of National Recreation and Parks Association Aquatics Network leadership team.
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Cemeteries
Several posts on the city's Facebook page as well as the Lansing Parks and Recreation
Facebook page regarding open burial and columbarium spaces have gone live and have
received some mostly positive feedback.
The Cemetery website has a new look and is up to date with the most current information
as well as with pictures of the scenery in each of the three cemeteries.
An ad in the Lansing State Journal ran for two consecutive weeks with information
regarding Evergreen Cemetery and Mt. Hope Cemetery to promote our open availability for
plot purchases.
New and improved designs of the maps of Evergreen Cemetery and Mt. Hope Cemetery are
underway.
An updated map of North Cemetery was placed.The new map includes names of some of
the people that are buried there as well as their location.
An updated map of Evergreen cemetery was placed. This map is on the larger scale and
gives people more of an opportunity to better view the area.
Leisure Services
Raised $99,000 in sponsorship dollars.
Changed Drive-thru-Halloween to Trick-or-Treat Trail and offered it at two sites to decrease
vehicle congestion. Increased vendor participation from 25 to 69. Served approximately
400 youth, estimated attendance was 600 people. There was also a 30% increase in
sponsorship dollars.
Set up a scan-in process for Hunter Park Pool to assist in tracking users and properly
identifying them.
Hired Wyatt Sanchez as a part-time clerk at Schmidt Center.
Mayor's Riverwalk had 709 participants,an increase of 57% compared to the previous year.
Concert in the Park series saw a 30% increase in sponsorship dollars.
Kids Camp saw a 23% increase in sponsorship dollars.
Holiday Nights of Lights has a 95% increase in sponsorship dollars.
135
Leisure Services Board sponsored five families each for Thanksgiving and Christmas and
operated concession stands at Davis and Gier Parks, Gier Community Center and Silver Bells
in the City.
Had a 30% increase in Women's volleyball teams and 33% increase in co-ed volleyball
teams.
Had a 6% increase in Senior 70+ softball participants.
Eradicated 24 moles between five ball fields on the season; managed active trails and field
damage that avoided any temporary or permanent league shutdowns.
Rebuilt pitching/middle infield areas on all three fields at the Gier softball complex to help
with rainwater drainage and alleviate excessive pooling.
Increased revenue in aquatics by 192% and by 724% in senior programs.
Increased aquatics staff by 222% by providing staff development for head lifeguards and
managers,jointly coordinating additional training for exposure to bloodborne pathogens
and Michigan Mandated Reporters to aquatic staff and summer camp staff.
Increased patron participation in senior programs by 75%, in swim lessons by 100% and
Hunter Pool attendance by 30%.
Hosted Special Events throughout the year:
o Puzzle Palooza —January,July, & November
o First Annual Water Safety Fair — May
§ The water safety fair was held in conjunction with the Lansing Police
Dive Team and the Lansing Fire Department to promote water safety
in and around the water. CPR demonstrations were available, dive
gear presented, instructions for escaping from a submerged vehicle,
and lifejackets were given out.
o Hunter Pool was a host site for the 15th Annual World's Largest Swim Lesson
— Held in June this event is a global program to help communities build
awareness about teaching children to swim
o National Hot Dog Day —July
§ Gave out free hot dogs to community at the Schmidt Community
Center & Hunter Park Pool
136
Partnered with various Lansing organizations to provide programming for seniors and the
general public with Lansing Fire Department,Tri-County Office of Aging, MSU Extension,
Capital Area District Library, U of M/Sparrow, Lansing Area Pharmacist Association &
Lansing City Charter Commissioner Muhammad Oawwee, Downtown Lansing, Inc.,and
Retired and Senior Volunteer Program of Ingham, Eaton and Clinton Counties
Project Manager for multi-year rehabilitation of Hunter Park Pool & Splash Pad
o New exterior paint in City of Lansing branded colors as well as anti-graffiti
coating
o Water mural added to southside wall next to splash pad created and painted
by staff member, Kaelin Royce
o Upgraded entrance of patrons from hand-written registration to digital
system for use in future years and future locations
o Upgraded phone system to include a universal voice mail/communication
system
o Upgraded security of perimeter gates, outside lighting,and multi-directional
cameras to be monitored 24/7
o Installed baby changing stations in both locker rooms
o Replaced single climbing wall with two new separate climbing walls.
Communication and Marketing
Successfully promoted and coordinated up to six recreational programs and thirteen
events, ensuring smooth execution and participant satisfaction. Increased event
participation by 50% compared to the previous year.
Coordinated a comprehensive parks overview,assessing 111 parks and interviewing
eight key stakeholders, in collaboration with Lansing's Public Media Center team.
Streamlined the park signage process by creating, drafting,and approving various
signage designs,working with both internal and external vendors.
Produced a monthly email newsletter, reaching nearly 8,000 residents,to keep the
community informed about upcoming events, programs,and park updates.
Established a weekly internal communications update,effectively sharing information
with staff and partnering city departments.
137
Captured compelling visuals through photography and videography, creating engaging
social media content (reels, posts) to increase online presence and audience interaction.
100% increase in reach 2022-2023,23% increased reach 2023-2-24, including 11k
organic views for single reel, over 28k organic reach for single post.
Coordinated interviews with public media and city officials, amplifying the department's
message and initiatives.
138
Leisure Services Statistics
Sessions Total
4otivity Type Offered f'leetinq Residents f'•Jon-P.e s id Revenue
4fterschool 11 778 244 42 $19,875.Or1
4 uatics 11-1;' 465 2 ;6 104 $12,541.1
:amp 66 35 1380 $126,643.00
:reative and Culinar!, 24 24 15 7 $1,530.00
Dance 62 424 315 12 $23,874.86
=vents 73 197 15290 F; A $85,356.00
=fitness&Wellness 47 842 239 15 $17,202.32
:;eneralInterest 57 515 41 14 $3,858.00
Thear peutic Recreati 16 16 F. . 55 $14,575.00
Martial Arts 121 llr 11 232 132 $16,453.50
Drop in Recreation 48 1248 1110 78 $8,030.73
Senior 7 7 11115 725 219 $3,231.00
CA&ItSport.s 6 646 186 217 $24,714.00
touch S orts 36 380 1 1033 332 $58,800.00
ort Classes C.9 496 143 76 $11,657.00
Tennis 54 3641 382 46; $33,250.00
Totals 1 -0-1651 32451 217551 7621 $467,658.82
basses-Fitness 71 $1,242.00
basses-Aquatics 44 $2,746.17
Silver Sneaker_ 2329 $5,822.50
-Inline Discounts $475.62
terse s 1 542 $10,800.00
anners 3 $1,500.00
TD T o.us I 150 3911 $2,230.00
Reservati
7acility Reservations on Count Hows Revenue
Schmidt 2195 <i 1 ;2 $8,143.75
r oster 2 ,21 1961 $15,045.00
pier 1275 4751 $21,894.75
etcs 1842 5" $1,231.00
Turner CIS�dqe 6 2'il $6,378.75
Totals 1 82021 254181 $52,753.25
=i:erfr nt 27 341 $11,350.r u=1
allfields 29, ill 3 $II,IIII
nflatables 15 7 $3,3.5.01-1
-'.3rk 237 $14,683.0r1
=F mobile 459 1 $14,250.00
Totals 6141 43301 $44,258.00
2024 Reservation Report
139
January 1, 2024 - December 31, 2024
Pavilion and Wedding Sites
Monthly Revenue
Septemb Octob
Frances Park Pavilion May June July August er er Total
$1,210. $3,250. $2,200. $4,235. $2,540.0 $595. $14,030.
Whole 00 00 00 00 0 00 00
$1,115.0
Half 1 $75.00 $370.00 $500.00 $85.00 $85.00 $0.00 0
$75.0 $2,150.0
Half 2 $320.00 $540.00 $380.00 $395.00 $440.00 0 0
$1,605. $4,160. $3,080. $4,715. $3,065.0 $670. $17,295.
Total 00 00 00 00 0 00 00
Moores Park Entire
Pavilion $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
Washington Park
Entire Pavilion $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
Hunter Park Entire
Pavilion $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
Frances Park
$1,875.0
Overlook $500.00 $875.00 $125.00 $375.00 $0.00 $0.00 0
Rose $125.00 $250.00 $0.00 $250.00 $125.00 $0.00 $750.00
Woodland $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
Total
$1,000.0
Cooley/Pav $250.00 $500.00 $0.00 $125.00 $125.00 $0.00 0
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$125.
Sunken Garden $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 00 $125.00
$1,855. $4,660. $3,080. $4,840. $3,190.0 $795. $18,420.
Totals 00 00 00 00 0 00 00
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LANSING POLICE
DEPARTMENT
ROBERT BACKUS, CHIEF
ADMINISTRATION
LEADERSHIP CHANGES
In July, Chief Ellery Sosebee retired from the Lansing
Police Department after 22 years and a total of 25 _ -
years in law Enforcement. Robert Backus,a 24-year
�r
member of the department and former Assistant
Chief,was officially named as the replacement. In 1�
December, Eric Pratl was promoted to Assistant Chief.
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
LPD works to prepare the department for
continued success.This year,the
• -�_`y� - department sent Lt. Mandi Beasinger to the
10-week FBI National Academy in Ouantico,
VA. Cpt. Matt Kreft attended the three-week
Police Executive Research Forum Senior
s
Management Institute for Policing in
E Boston, and Lts. Sean Mills and Shawn
McNamara attended the Michigan State
University School of Staff and Command.
AXON RMS PROJECT
LPD is in the process of building a new records management system for the department.
We have selected Axon as our vendor. Lt. Michelle Spoelma leads this project which is
expected to go live in March of 2025.
INTERNAL AFFAIRS
The Office of Internal Affairs experienced a complete turnover of personnel due to several
promotions and one retirement.The office is currently staffed by Lt.Josh Traviglia and Sgt.
Michael VanBeek.To date,the office has investigated and reviewed 54 formal complaints
and 573 incident reviews.
142
PUBLIC INFORMATION DIRECTOR
Director Gulkis served the department by coordinating all media `
communications for the department as well as managing all the
department's social media platforms. Dir.Gulkis was an asset to
advertising our hiring processes, highlighting the departments good
needs and important safety information and organizing media
engagement at events and serious incidents.
PUBLIC SAFETY BUILDING
All departments of the Lansing Police Department are working with staff from River Caddis,
BKV architecture and Christman construction to finalize the interior and exterior designs of
the new building.The current completion date is estimated to be in the fall of 2027.
ACCREDITATION
The Lansing Police Department officially completed the accreditation process in February
of 2024 after several years of dedicated work. Over 140 policies and procedures were
updated to reflect best practices in the field with accompanying proofs.Since we were
awarded our accreditation status back in February,we immediately switched gears and
began the 3-year re-accreditation process which calls for additional annual proofs and
thorough policy reviews.The LPD is now one of 87 agencies across the state of Michigan
with this distinction.
MSU PARTNERSHIPS
Michigan State University and the Lansing Police Department began a multiyear
collaboration to study police staffing and how agencies recruit, hire and retain new officers.
This study is sponsored by the National Institute of Justice,and includes other Police
Departments such as Philadelphia, Fresno, Charleston,and Denver.This project is the
Largest of its kind and hopes to create new industry best practices in the field.The LPD is
excited to join this endeavor.
CAMERAS
Dozens of new cameras were installed across the city this year to include our city parking
ramps,the Lansing Center, Baker St.,and the new handicap accessible playground at Adado
Park.We have also created 4 new mobile camera trailers for rapid deployment in the field.
143
Traffic cameras have been added at MLK and Holmes and more are coming for MLK and
Jolly.Additional camera sites at Strikeout Park and the Ferris Park basketball courts are
being worked on currently. LPD also partnered with the Lansing Fire to deploy mobile
camera trailers at problem areas and events.
GRANTS
The 2024 grant efforts included our annual Byrne Jag grant which covered new handgun
optics, mental health training and educational reimbursements.Additional grants include
2 OHSP grants targeting distracted drivers,2 CARE unit grants to support victims of
domestic violence,a STOPL grant that provides a Detective and an Analyst to facilitate
research and prosecution of domestic violence cases,an Auto Theft Prevention Act grant
which provides a dedicated detective that focuses on auto theft prevention,ARPA grant
funds that continue to facilitate record digitization efforts for our records unit,and the
LCAT grant which has provided an additional social worker to the unit,as well as 3 vehicles
to support their field efforts,funds for mental health education,and reimbursement for
officer overtime when they are out supporting field operations. New grant efforts underway
include the federal Partnership for Safer Neighborhoods which assisted with the purchases
of cameras and firearm storage boxes and the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement
Standards grant which supports our continuation of Zencity and public sentiment polling
as well as funding for the Lansing 360 and Lansing Empowerment Network.
Community VioLence Intervention:
144
The Lansing Police Department Investigations Division
comprising DB and VCI has taken a front-seat role in
participating with Lansing 360,Advance Peace, Mikey23,
Gun Violence Task Force and other community violence
reduction efforts.The effort seek to improve community
relationships,foster communication between
community stakeholders,and most of all, reduce violent
crime around the Lansing area.The Lansing 360 is a
component of the Lansing Empowerment Network and
is a collaborative effort that attracts 50-100 community
participants weekly with a vested interest in reducing
violent crime. Its approach is to utilize collaboration,
prevention, intervention, enforcement, reentry,and
community engagement to accomplish its goals.
r BUdBIN
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FOUN
VI'ia4
miky2, ICI
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIVISION
The Administrative Services Division includes the Property and Supply Unit, Detention Unit,
Budget and Payroll Unit, Emergency Equipment Maintenance Unit (EEMU) and the Capital
Area Response Effort (CARE) Team. Policy and procedure also fall under this division.
PROPERTY & SUPPLY UNIT
145
The Property & Supply Unit is responsible for issuing and ordering necessary uniforms and
equipment for the Department's sworn and non-sworn members. PSU also collects, stores,
and reviews all case related evidence collected by officers,detectives, and crime scene
technicians.
• PSU had no budget increase by bidding out purchases for fiscal efficiency. PSU
strived to utilize local businesses when possible.
• PSU helped facilitate the destruction of 69 unwanted firearms by participating in a
gun buyback event.
• PSU reunited citizens of Lansing with their property over 400 times in 2024.
• PSU donated 11 bicycles that were eligible for disposal to the Kids Repair Program.
• PSU destroyed approximately 500 lbs. of narcotics seized off the streets of Lansing.
• PSU outfitted 16 new officer recruits and 3 lateral transfers in 2024.
• PSU maintained the department's professional appearance by replacing old
uniforms/gear,when necessary.
• Continue large scale evidence audit and purge prior to building move
DETENTION & COURT SERVICES UNIT
The Detention and Court Services Unit is authorized for (16) Detention Officers, (3) Court
Officers and is supervised by (5) Detention Sergeants.Three of the detention officers hold
the title of Lead Detention Officer (LDO) and carry additional reporting and auditing
responsibilities.The LPD Detention is an integral part of the 54-A District Court system.
Together with the court administrative offices,defendants are detained prior to and after
their court proceedings.
• Detention hired (2) new Detention Officers,one female and one male.
• Detention will be fully-staffed effective November 18,2024.
• While allotted for three positions,the court services unit is still operating with only
two officers.
• Detention related policy and procedure updates related to MACP accreditation were
completed.
• Due to aging equipment, multiple cameras have been replaced with newer
technology.
• An agreement was reached with ICSO to re-implement the Trustee program.This
allows a non-violent offender to come work in the detention center three times a
week.They assist with cleaning, stocking of inventory,and providing sandwiches to
inmates.
• We are still in talks with UM Sparrow Health Systems regarding a process of
146
providing medical care to detainees at low to no cost.
• Lead Detention Officers have worked extensively on the design of the new detention
facility to ensure the facility meets current and future needs.
• We have added 2 Detention Officers to the DT Cadre.They wi 11 now assist with the
training of officers and detention staff regarding defensive tactics, OC Spray,Taser,
etc.
• The bid process for a full body scanner has begun.
BUDGET & PAYROLL UNIT
The Budget and Payroll Unit is tasked with coordinating,assisting,and reporting on the
budget authorized for the Lansing Police Department.
• Budget Control Supervisor training is ongoing regarding grant systems and best
practices with local, state and federal grants
• Budget and Payroll Unit has updated policies and practices to continue to be in
accreditation compliance
• New city-wide budgeting software
ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE UNIT :
The Electronic Equipment Maintenance Unit is responsible for the installation and
maintenance of all FCC radio communication systems, including vehicle/ building video
recording access equipment.
• Purchased and installed 60 new laptops in our patrol vehicles as well as updated all
the modems to 5G.
147
GANG RESISTANCE EDUCATION & TRAINING TEAM:
The Lansing Police Gang Resistance Education and Training (G.R.E.A.T.) Team works
collaboratively with LPD's Community Services Unit,the Lansing School District (LSD) and
other community stakeholders to increase the level of trust between the police and the
community's youth. The G.R.E.A.T.team's goal is to instill youth with necessary social skills
that will enhance their ability to resist gang membership and promote high moral and civic
standards.
• In the spring semester of the 2024 school year,the G.R.E.A.T Team launched a 6-
week life skills curriculum at several schools throughout LSD, primarily working
with 511 graders at Dwight Rich and Pattengill.This was our third time teaching
students within the LSD community since the beginning of the COVID Pandemic.
The school staff was excited for our officers to be back in their classrooms teaching
these important topics.
• GREAT Team members assisted with our PAL team on several events this past year to
include Bike giveaways, basketball event at the Capitol,Todd Martin Tennis camp
and the PAL football camp at Everett HS.
INVESTIGATIONS
r The Investigations Division report for year-
to-date accomplishments in 2024 includes
the Detective Bureau, Special Operations
Section,and the Violent Crime Impact
Team.These units have many partnerships
outside of the Lansing Police Department
with local, state,and federal law
\ enforcement.The ability to leverage these
_— - relationships has led to a successful year
for our team.
PROJECT CASE CLOSED
LPD is participating with a research partner (RTI) to improve our investigations into non-
fatal shootings with the goal of improving our closure rates.The group completed an
assessment of LPD operations and produced a report outlining areas for improvement.
148
This past year,the LPD has implemented several of the group's suggestions for areas of
improvement,and officers and detectives have attended several trainings the group
identified as important to our community and criminal investigations.
The Investigations unit recently began working with Project CLEARS (Community and Law
Enforcement Alignment to Resolve Shootings).This project is closely related to Project Case
Closed. It builds on the Case Closed project and examines more closely how community
organizations may influence the closure of shooting investigations,along with what
potential changes could be made to leverage these organizations more to increase victim
and witness engagement.
Other projects include:
• Domestic Violence Specialty court
• Juvenile Weapons Court
• Advance Peace Police Liaison
DETECTIVE BUREAU
The Investigations Section consists of 1 Captain, I Lieutenant, 2 Sergeants, 24 Lansing
Detectives,and 4 MSP Detectives,as well as a support staff of 2 administrative assistants, 3
crime analysts,and 2 interns. The Crime Scene Investigations Unit currently has 2 officers
assigned to process scenes and evidence. Homicides are at 10 through November. The
clearance rate for this crime is still above national averages,with 8 solved (80%). The two
that are unsolved have active leads,and detectives keep working on this looking for digital
and forensic evidence to advance these investigations.
SPECIAL OPERATIONS SECTION
The Special Operations Section,a dedicated team comprising the Violent Crime Team and
the Special Operations Undercover Narcotics Section (SOS), is committed to ensuring the
safety of our community.The SOS team diligently works to identify and investigate
individuals bringing drugs into our community and addresses other quality of life and
regulatory complaints in Lansing. After thorough investigations, local charges are sought
through the City Attorney or Prosecutor's office or federally through the U.S.Attorney's
office. To date,the Special Operations Section has seized a total of 3,112 grams of cocaine,
217 grams of crack cocaine, 66 grams of heroin, 1983 grams of methamphetamine, 113
grams of fentanyl,and 20 firearms. Additionally,over 28 search warrants were executed,
resulting in over 37 arrests and many successful prosecutions of felony charges.
149
VIOLENT CRIME IMPACT TEAM
The Lansing Police Violent Crime Impact Team is part of the Capital Area Violent Crime
Initiative, a collaborative effort that combines local,state,and federal law enforcement
resources to reduce violent crime in our area. This year,through the end of October,VCI
seized over 93 guns. Much of this work has been in conjunction with our embedded
Michigan State Police Secure City Partnership. This team has assisted with fugitive
apprehensions,case assistance,search warrant support,and proactively focusing on the
most violent offenders within our community. VCI has over 144 felony arrests, 3,657 hours
of case-related surveillance, 79 Michigan Department of Corrections home visits,and 706
hours of dedicated patrol in hot spot areas. In addition,this unit has become our
department's expert with cellular support for cases by assisting with many follow-up
warrants and reviews.This group is the uniformed side of our Detective Bureau and
regularly works on all major cases.
FOCUSED ENGAGEMENT
At least once per month, members of VCI,the MSP,and local law enforcement conducted
hotspot policing and priority offender efforts.The efforts were concentrated in our most
high-crime areas and locations. Specific efforts were directed toward individuals associated
with violent crime investigations.The majority of which involved the illegal use of firearms.
This year, in the days following the group's proactive efforts,a neighborhood engagement
event was planned at different hot spot areas around the city.The neighborhood
engagement events included personnel from the Michigan State Police as well.
STAFF SERVICES DIVISION
CENTRALRECORDS
Central Records personnel is comprised of the Central Records Supervisor,Angelica Basic,
five full-time Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Analysts,one Central Records Principal
Clerk,and four Police Cadets. Central Records personnel process police reports,accident
reports, uniform citations, Freedom of Information requests,government requests,all video
requests,conduct background checks, notary services,and process ride-a-long applications.
In 2021,the FOIA Analysts and Police Cadets began to utilize a software program called
GOVOA. This has made the analysts'job more effective and efficient in 2024,and has saved
on printing costs,expedited our processing time,and overall increased efficiency.
Additional services performed in Central Records are fingerprinting for background
investigations, processing of purchase permits,and registrations for firearms. Staff Services
also includes a Data System Administrator and Fingerprint Technician. The Data System
150
Administrator maintains and manages various critical core systems within LPD including
the records management system. The Fingerprint Technician examines, analyzes,and
compares fingerprint evidence for criminal investigations. His expertise is critical to
Lansing Police Department investigations.
RECRUITING AND HIRING
Staff Services Sergeant Penni Elton supervises Central Records Staff including the Police
Cadets with the following additional responsibilities: LPD coordinator with the Mid-
Michigan Police Academy, scheduling of the New Hire Orientation and Reception,
Coordinating the LPD Internship Program and the annual Awards Ceremony. Our
recruiting team, led by Capt. Sean Mills attended over 40 events throughout the
year. Capt. Mills also tracks special assignments in the department, compiles the vacation
roster, and organizes the shift selections. The Staff Services Captain and Sergeant also
produce MCOLES reports, promotional processes, department assignment transfers, ride-a-
longs, and the yearly Awards Program. The command staff of the Staff Service Division
works closely with the City of Lansing Human Resources department in the application
process, hiring, and onboarding of new Police Department Employees. The 2024 LPD
Awards Program was held at the McLaren Health Services Building where over 100 awards
were disseminated.
In 2024 the Lansing Police Department
CAREERBUILD YOUR OWN UNIQUE worked in collaboration with the City of
Lansing Human Resources Department
-_ in conducting several hiring selection
CAREER - processes. LPD created new material for
Detention Unit recruiting, upgraded
.i , i PATROL
flyers and pamphlets for Police Recruit
OR r and Police Officer positions, and created
-G.R.E.A.1 INSTRUCT
new recruiting flyers and pamphlets for
INTERVENTION
Cadets and Explorers. The Staff Services
-MENTOR TEAM Sergeant provides recruiter-embedded
responsibilities and is responsible for
OFFICER MCCLINTON
y , ,IENCE
day-to-day operations. The LPD Ride-
3 YEARS OF
Along program is at full speed building
community relations and engaging interested applicants. In 2024, the LPD had over 150
ride-a-longs with officers on all shifts. In total, Lansing Police hired three police officers,
151
two Detention Officers, one social worker, sponsored 15 recruits to the Mid-Michigan
Police Academy and accepted 20 interns. The Recruiting Team attended the following
recruiting events throughout the year:
• Mid-Michigan Police Academy (MMPA) • Western Michigan University Career
• Olivet College Employer's Fair Fair
• MDOC Zoom Recruitment • Eaton RESA Recruitment Event
• MSU Diversity Career Fair • Wayne State CJ Fair
MSU All Careers and Internship Fair • Michigan Works/DHHA Recruiting
MSU Student Internship Zoom • Clinton County RESA
• MSU CJ Zoom Event • Oakland Community College Police
• MSU Criminal Justice Career Fair Academy
• Baker College Recruiting • Macomb CC Police Academy
• Grand Valley Career Fair • MMPA Graduation
• Macomb County Police Academy • Fiesta @a Adado Park (recruiting
• Reverse Job Shadow Everett HS event)
• Ferris State CJ Fair and classes • Ingham County Job Fair
• Ferris State Police Academy • Waverly High SchoolJob/Career Fair
• Ferris Career and Internship Fair • Clinton County RESA Open House
• Indiana Tech Career/Intern Fair • LCC Job/Internship Fair
• LCC Job/Career Fair • MSU School of Criminal Justice and
• RESA — Professional Development Police Staffing Observatory "Women
Day/recruiting in Policing" event
• 2024 Youth Workshop for 10th-12th • Wilson Talent Center Mock Interviews
grade male students on behalf of the • EATON RESA — CSI event
Brothers of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity • Youth Apprentice Fair — Wilson Center
of the Greater Lansing Area
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4
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f
Y
PATROL DIVISION
The Lansing Police Department continues to serve the citizens of Lansing and this community
every day.As of July,the LPD has responded to over 69,000 calls for service and will be on track
to exceed 80,000+ by year's end. To date,this is a 6.2% increase from last year. The LPD is also
on pace to generate over 12,000+ case reports. The LPD furthered our partnership with ZenCity.
ZenCity continued to provide research into new Data-Driven Community Aligned Policing
(DCAP) that was incorporated into the bi-weekly Crime Meetings within the Patrol Division.
These meetings continued to identify early crime trends and overall resident satisfaction.
SPECIAL EVENTS & TRAFFIC UNIT
With the help of our Special Events and Traffic Unit,we have = �
concentrated traffic enforcement throughout the city enforcing those
areas that were of most concern to our citizens through statistical data.
LPD was again awarded Grant funds from the Office of Highway Safety _.
Planning. LPD successfully completed all mandatory enforcement
periods throughout this grant cycle. Over 1,900 citations were issued
while there was a 7.28% decline in total traffic crashes.
SOCIAL WORKER UNIT
From January 2024 through October 2024,the social work unit has received 1091 referrals
for service and opened 463 cases to follow up on those referrals. Social workers have had
3406 citizen contacts and followed up 3830 times with providers.The social workers have
also documented over 3,133 service notes, indicating contacts with clients and/or providers
to connect clients with services and resources.The social workers continue to make a
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positive impact on the citizens of this community and assist the agency by helping
individuals in crisis.The social worker team also attended various community events in
2024 to further engage and educate the community.
LCAT
The Lansing Police Department was awarded money through the Byrne Discretionary Grant
award for a Lansing Crisis Assessment Team program. This program was geared to pair a social
worker and a Lansing police officer together to respond to calls for individuals in crisis.To date
in 2024, LCAT responded to over 140 dispatched calls, had over 140 self-initiated calls, had over
290 citizen contacts,and over 75 business contacts. LPD will continue LCAT efforts for the
foreseeable future.
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Each year the department continues to be proactive with community outreach and engagement
by building and fostering relationships and partnerships with a diverse range of community
organizations and agencies. Our Community Services Unit strives to focus on what our citizens
need from their Police Department.Without the support of the Lansing community, law
enforcement partners,City officials,and our Community Services Unit none of this would be
possible.The Community Services (CSU) includes LieutenantJillian Colby,Sergeant Dillon Reust,
and Community Services Officer DeLaurence Rudd along with 5 Community Police Officers who
work to fulfill our mission of improving the lives of those who live,work,and visit the City of
Lansing.CSU is responsible for 111 neighborhood watches, 125 business watches and attended
over 100 community meetings and events this year:
• Refuge Officer Safety • Work-a-thon
• OualityTime with a Cop • Special Olympics Bocce Ball
• Widowed Senior Women tournament
presentation • Hunter Park Water Safety Fair
• Santa's First Responder • Wear Orange-Moms Demand Action
• Mid-Michigan Leadership Academy • Our House Family Childcare Gun
Literacy Safety
• March reading month • Juneteenth Freedom Festival
• Bunny Hop on the Square • Mini Resource Fair
• Egg Hunt on Capitol Lawn • Positive Somebody @ Potter Park
• Community Resource Fair • Bobby White Basketball Event
• Citizens Police Academy • HRCS Health and Wellness Fair
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• Mayor's Senior Fair • Chase Credit Union Training
• Lyon's Elementary— Reading to • Ride of Silence
Students • Safety Patrol Picnic
• Michigan Works Spring Job Fair • Lids for Kids
• Bingo Night @ Carter Center • Gier Park Elementary School Event
• Old Town Annual Meeting • Old Town Neighborhood
• Mikey 23 Luncheon Engagement
• VA Commission Meeting • Juneteenth Festival @ StAoseph
• RTI Symposium Park
• Youth Academy • Pride Festival
• MM Leadership Academy Book • Churchill Downs Summer Picnic
Reading • Stop the Violence March
• Cavanaugh School Book Reading • Southside Community Center Safety
• Hawk Island Easter Egg Hunt Week
• Alma HS Criminal Justice Lecture • Youth Bike Camp
• Cumberland Elementary School • National Night Out
Reading • Westside Block Party
• Be My Neighbor @ Impression 5
• Kensington Meadow Back to School • City of Lansing Citizens Academy
Event • Halloween Safety Presentation
• Power 96.5 School Supply Giveaway • Trick or Treat on the Square
• Youth Live Back to School Event • Drive Thru Trunk of Treat @ OPS
• Back to School Youth Day • Neighborhood Resource Summit
• Back to School Pop Up @ Sexton • Texas Roadhouse Veterans Voucher
H.S. Event
• Eastside Summer Festival • North Elementary Junior
• Family Fun Faith Fair Achievement
• Potter-Walsh Fall Kick Off • Shop with a Cop
• St. Michael Episcopal Gun Buy Back • Sponsored CSU Families Christmas
• Fall Team Clean Up Delivery
• Self-Defense & Jesus Women's Event • Sparrow Christmas for Cancer Kids
• Domestic Violence Vigil • No Senior Without Christmas
• Cristo Rey 5K • One Faith Event
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r
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PARTNERSHIPS
Our department is staffed by dedicated men and women who adhere to the value of working in
partnership with the community all while striving for excellence and accountability.Working in
partnership with our community to identify and address public safety and other quality of living
issues while embracing the diversity of our neighborhood organizations, schools, PTO's,
business associations,service clubs,and religious and educational institutions.
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• Business Watch • Sparrow Hospital
• Lansing Public Safety Youth • Power 96.5 Radio Station
Leadership Academy • Lansing Parks and Rec Department
• Human Trafficking Workgroup • Autumn Ridge Apartments
• Tri-County TRIAD • Beverly Hills Apartments
• Tri-County Crisis Intervention . Mutual Aid Agreements with
Board Capital Region Airport Authority,
• Lansing School Resource Officers Clinton County, DeWitt Township,
• Downtown Business Association Eaton County, Ingham County, East
• Mid-Michigan Police Academy Lansing, Michigan State University,
• Rejuvenating South Lansing Meridian Township, Lansing
• Michigan State University School Township,Williamston,
of Planning, Design & Construction Stockbridge, Mason, Leslie,
• Walnut Park Apartments Emergent Biodefense, Lansing
• Lansing Youth Football League Community College, Capital Region
• Lansing School District Security Network, Davenport
• Lansing Promise and HOPE University,and Capital Region
Program Security Network and Office of
• Jail Diversion and Community Highway Safety & Planning.
Mental Health • Capital Area District Library
• Project Life Saver • Lansing Police Explorer
• Human Relations Advisory Board • Department of Justice
• Lansing Police Advisory Board • Michigan State Police
• Project Lifesaver • Federal Bureau of Investigation
• Retired Senior Volunteer Program National Academy Association
• Handicap Enforcement Volunteers • Police Executive Research Forum
• School Watch Volunteers Association
• LPD Volunteers • Senior Management Institute in
• GREAT Program — LSD Elementary Policing
Schools • International Association of Chiefs
• Old Newsboys of Police
• Violent Crime Initiative • Michigan Association of Chiefs of
• Peckham Police
• First Responders Children's • Mayor's Camp
Foundation • Crime Prevention Seminars
• One Faith
• Lansing School District Handle • U.S.Army National Guard
with Care • City of Lansing Veterans Board
• Crime Stoppers • Blue Courage
• Prescription Task Force • Governor Whitmer's Inauguration
• Keystone COPS Luncheon Committee
• Community Oriented Policing • Ingham Academy
Association • Business Watch
• U.S. Marine Corp Reserves • Human Relations Board
• U.S. Navy Reserves
cJ
rH
R
I
BUSINESS RETENTION
The Lansing Police Department works to attract new business and support established
businesses by participating in career preparation,school-to-work programs,and other strategies
to develop a regional workforce with Old Town, Reo Town, Downtown, Inc., Lansing School
District, Lansing Community College, Michigan State University, Davenport College, Cooley Law
School, Capital Area Michigan Works, Chamber of Commerce, Ingham County,General Motors,
Trade Unions, Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Michigan State Police and the
Accident Fund. Downtown Lansing, Inc. Downtown Inc, Reo Town and Old Town continue to be
high priorities for growth and development.
The Lansing Police Department continues to build partnerships and maintain those
partnerships to address homeless issues and protect the citizens and visitors who enjoy
Lansing.
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• Michigan State Police Secure Cities Partnership
• Blue Cross & Blue Shield
• Attend downtown business and resident community meetings
• Provide extra police presence at Lansing Center events, Cooley Law Stadium for
Games, Common Ground,Silver Bells,Trick or Treat on the Square, Blues Fest,Jazz
Fest, October Fest, Festival of the Sun and Moon along with bicycle patrol in Old
Town during the summer months
• Lansing Marathon and many other races
• Veterans of America Board Meetings
• Attend Downtown Lansing Inc. Board Meetings
• Monthly business meetings with Downtown Lansing Inc.
• Assist Human Resources and Community Services and Holy Cross in identifying and
assisting the homeless obtain food,shelter,and other available resources
• The LPD is carrying out a Downtown Entertainment Safety Plan where they are
working with local businesses,cab companies,and patrons to provide residents,
proprietors,and visitors to the downtown business district with a safe environment
while maintaining order
• Special Operations Section conducted alcohol enforcement stings of Lansing bars
Assign community policing officers to various neighborhoods.
• Utilize the Public Video Safety Cameras to reduce crime & disorder
• Handicapped Parking and River Trail Enforcement
• Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN) - reduction of gun crimes — Collaborate with ATF, U.S.
Attorney's Office, Prosecutor,and Tri-County law enforcement agencies to identify and
pro-actively prevent crimes involving guns within the Lansing area. Project Safe
Neighborhoods and LPD is setting specific goals to reduce violent crime involving guns
in Lansing
• LPD partnership with the ATF. Four (4) ATF agents are now stationed or based at the
Operations Center
• Michigan Prisoner Re-Entry Initiative (M.P.R.I.) was established in 2003 and has worked
with ex-prisoners on getting them placed back into the community and getting them
jobs. M.P.R.I.goal is to achieve successful long-term reintegration of the former prisoner
to his/ her community.
• ALPACT- Law Enforcement, businesses,faith based,community-based leaders,and
dedicated citizens are all major stakeholders in public safety.
• Business Watch
• Partner's In Crisis
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• PA 416 Traffic Deputies
• 911 Advisory Board
• CATA Bus Station
• Capital City Airport Annual Review
• Community Summit Solutions Committee
• Lansing Concerned Citizens Committee
• School Watch Program
• What Works for Cities
• Black Lives Matter
• President's Task for 215t Century Policing
• Council on Law Enforcement and Reinvention
• Michigan-Citizen Emergency Response Coordinating Council
SPECIAL TACTICS & RESCUE TEAM [S.T.A.R.T]
• 55 Training Days
• 8 Training Instructional Events r - ►
teaching Active Violent Incident
Response to Civilians
• 7 Training Days for Team Tryouts
• 6 START Community Engagement
events
TRAINING, EDUCATION, & INFORMATION
The LPD participates, provides,and sponsors many trainings and educational programs. These
training areas and educational programs include officer skills and development, supervisory
development,conflict resolution, diversity appreciation,computer skills, hiring and promotional
policies,and customer service. Department employees,along with our outside agency training
partners,attended approximately 36,117 hours of training in 2024 (as of December 4, 2024).
• 2024 PAT • 2024 ICPO Criminal Legal Update
• 100.02 Code of Ethics Policy • 2024 AMERICAN TAC K9
• 2 Day Less Lethal Instructor ASSOCIATION CONF
Recertification • 2024 City Ord. Updated
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• 2024 June Legal Update • Basic LEIN Operator Training
• 2024 Michigan Justice for Children • Basic Tactical EMS
Conference • Behavioral Health Emergency
• 2024 National Assoc. of Partnership
Professional Canine Handlers • Behavioral Threat Assessment &
• 2024 START Basic School Management
• 2024 State Legislative Update • Bike Training
• 2024 TAC Refresher for LE • BWC Tagging Footage Refresher
• 86th Annual Michigan Police Pistol • Canine Trainers Academy
Match • Capital Region Integrate Critical
• Active Violence Training Scenario - Skills
Eaton County • CELLEBRITE CCO/CCPA
• Advanced FOIATraining • CIT International Conference (LCAT
• Advanced GRIN - CISM Training Funds)
• Advanced Latent Fingerprint • Citizens Police Academy
Course • City Attorney Ethics Video Part 1
• Advanced Roadside Impaired • City Attorney Ethics Video Part 2
Driving Enf. (ARIDE) • City of Lansing Code of Ethics
• Al Regional Training Manual
• Al Training Day • Cold Case Homicide Investigations
• AMPED Five Training - Image and Seminar
Video Forensics • Cold Case Law: Unsolved Deaths
• Annual Range Training Day 2024 Disappearances
• Annual Training Lecture 2024 • Command Presence FTO
• Anti-Retaliation & Religious Certification (C.T.E. Model)
Accommodation • Computer Investigations for 1st
• Applicant Fingerprint Livescan Responders
Training • Converge Leadership and Culture
• ATAP Winter Conference Summit
• AVI Training • CORE Law Enforcement Day
• AXON Conference 2024 • Corrections Training Officer
• AXON Respond User Guide • Courtroom Testimony for Forensic
• AXON Week 2024 Science Professional
• Backup Qualification 2024 • Courtroom Testimony: Officer's
• Basic Field Training Officer Trials & Court Success
• Basic Investigator School
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• COB Pistol/Carbine fundamentals • Evidence-Based Interview
Tune-Up Course Interrogation
• Crime Prevention for Places of • Exploring the Sexual Predator
Worship • Explosive Breaching Course
• Crime Prevention Initiatives for • Extracting the Truth
Business • FAA Part 107 Drone Training
• Crime Prevention Strategies for • FBI -ViCAP Training -Virtual
Educational Facilities • FBI National Academy
• Crime Scene Metal Detector • FBI Nat'l Academy- Crisis
Operations Negotiations Course
• CSI Tech Training • FEMA Field Force Operations
• Cycle 02-2024 On Duty Training • Firearms Instructor/Rangemaster
• Cycle 07-2024 On Duty Training • First Aid/CPR/AED Instructor-BL-
• DBT Skills Training r.21
• December 2023 Legal Update • First Responder Computer
• Detention Annual Training 2024 Investigations Training
• DIVE Training Day • FLO Training
• Domestic Violence Training • Force Science Certification Course
• Drones as a De-escalation Tool for • Forensic Interviewing:The Next
LE -Webinar Step
• DT Interviews 2024 • Foundational Homicide
• DTTraining Day Investigations
• EFC Instructor Certification • FTO Interviews 2024
• Effective Policing Skills and Tactics • FTO/Recruit Training Day
• Effects of Officer Morale on Hiring • Fusion Liaison Officer
and Retention • Generational Trauma and the Child
• Emergency Risk Protection Orders • Glock Armorer Course
(ERPO) Training • Glock MOS Instructor Course
• Employee Evaluations - How to • Gracie Survival Tactics Level 1
• Empowering Communities Instructor
Conference • Handgun Qualification 2024
• Ethics Training • HAZMAT Power Point
• Evacuate or Shelter in Place • HITS 2024
• Evidence Technician School Level • Homicide Investigation Training
1&2 • Honor Guard Training Day
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• Hostage Negotiations/Crisis • Level I At-Scene Collision
Intervention 1 & 2 Reconstruction
• IA Investigations: Legal Liability • Low-Light Handgun Training
and Best Practices • Low-Light Rifle/Handgun
• IATraining and Certification • LWRC 2-dayArmorer's Training
• IACP Conference 2024 Course
• IACP PIO Conference • MACP Accreditation Fall
• ICAT Integrating Communications Conference 2024
Assessment Tacs • MACP Police Executives and New
• ICPC 2024 Regional Training Chief
Seminar • MAHN Conference
• ICPC Regional Training • Managing Police Training
• Instructor Development Course • Managing Police Programs
• Internal Affairs Investigations: • May Legal Update 2024
Legal Liability • Mental Health First Aid
• Intoxilyzer 9000 Training Hands - • Mental Health First Aid Instructor
on • Michigan Harm Reduction Summit
• Intoxilyzer 9000 Training 2024
PowerPoint • MICHIGAN TRAFFIC SAFETY
• Intro to DBT SUMMIT
• Investigating Non-Stranger Sexual • Midwest Gang Investigators
Assault National Conference
• IS-100: Introduction to ICS • MLEYAC 2024 Explorer
• IS-200 ICS Single Resources and Competition
Initial Action Incidents • MLEYAC Explorer Training
• K9 Training Day Academy
• Krav Maga Law Enforcement • MMRMA Risk Management
Instructor Certification Workshop
• Leadership for Police Supervisors • Mobile Field Force Training -
• Leadership in a Corrections Academy
Environment • Motorcycle Operator Training 2024
• Leg Restraint Training • MSP Firecat training
• LERMA new Michigan Firearms • MSU First Line Supervision Course
Laws training • MSU School of Staff and Command
• LERMACON 2024 Fall Conference • National Police Week 2024,
• Less Lethal/ Grenadier Washington D.C.
163
• NDTC 2-day Principles and Practice • PPCT Instructor Course
Course • Precision Driving Instructor
• Negotiation Team Leadership Program
• New Hire Detention Onboarding • Problem Solving for Supervisors
DTTraining • Property Room Management
• New Hire DTTraining . Public Order Basic Command
• NEW HIRE Onboarding Certification
• New Investigator School 2024 • Public Order Grenadier: Best
• New Sgt. School 2024 Practices
• NGCRC Gang Certification • Putting the "T" Back in Field
• November 2024 Legal Update training Officer
• NTOA Command Level 1 • OPR Train-the-Trainer
• Officer Wellness: Implementing . OR Guide to Investigating Internet
Peer Support Based Threats
• Ohio Tactical Officers Association • RAVE How to Create Username and
Conference Login
• OHSP-Bicycle and Pedestrian • RAVE How to Send a Standard
Safety Law Enforcement Alert
• Open Water Dry Suit &Confined • Red Dot Pistol: Fundamentals
Water Training Instructor
• Open Water Training • Red Dot User Course
• Overview Crime Prevention • Redefining Community Policing -
Environmental Design Webinar
• PAAM CAATS Forensic Interviewing • Residential Crime Prevention
• PBT Calibration Training • Rifle Oualification 2024
• PBT Operator Training • S.T.O.P.S. Instructor Certification
• Pepperball Instructor/Armorer • SABRE Instructor Course
Certification • SABRE Instructor/Recertification
• Phase One-At-Scene Collision • Search Warrants 101:The
Investigation Essentials
• Physical Security Assessment • Senior Management Institute for
Training Program Police (SMIP)
• Piranha Tire Deflation Training • September 2024 Legal Update
• Police K9 Hard Surface Tracking • Sexual Assault Kit Initiative
• Police Sniper Instructor School Summit
• PowerDMS/NeoGov Conference • Social Networking
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• Social Worker DTTraining Day • Taser Instructor Course
• Southeastern Homicide • Teaching Rookie Cops How to Talk
Investigators Association to People
• Standardized Field Sobriety Test • The Current Prevention &
Instructor School Communication in BTA & M
• START • The Effects of Morale on Hiring
• START- Marksman and Retention
• START CNT • Third Annual National Police
• START Entry Day Social Work Conf.
• START Perimeter & Snipers • Third Party Protection/ Multiple
• START Team Tryouts Attacker Defense
• START UAS • Threat Assessment
• Supervising an Investigation Unit • Tri County AVI Training
• Supervising and Managing Protests • UAS Team Interviews
• Supervising Patrol Critical • Undercover Narcotics School
Incidents • Understanding Garrity &
• Supervision of the C.T.O Program Administrative Statements
• Supervision of the FTO Program - • Understanding the Mexican Cartels
Hosting Only and Narco Culture
• Swiftwater Rescue Combo • Use of Force Instructor Training -
• TAC for Law Enforcement Training FLETC
• Tactical Bike Training • Virtual Academy- Courtroom
• Tactical EMS School Testimony
• Taser 7 New Certification
2024 Training Unit Special Events Conducted
• Citizen's Police Academy- Use of Force Lecture
• Citizen's Police Academy- Scenario Day
Range: (as of December 4, 2024)
• 316.50 hours for LPD Course of Fire/Training for sworn personnel.
• 20 Training Days for LCC Firearms Academy, 64 students trained, 80 hours per
student (5,120 total hours).
• 2 Training days for retired LEOSA Qualifications,approximately 140 retired officers
attended the three-hour block of instruction and qualifications (420 total hours).
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• 122 officers trained from other jurisdictions to include federal,state,and local
government agencies (626 total hours).
166
CITY OF LANSING PUBLIC SERVICE
DEPARTMENT
ANDREW KILPATRICK, DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR'S NOTE:
The City of Lansing Public Service Department works hard to maintain the City's
infrastructure to support our residents, businesses,and visitors.With a dedicated staff of
almost 220 full-time employees,we:
• Maintain over 1,500 miles of streets,sewers, sidewalks,and pathways in the city
• Treat over 4.4 billion gallons of wastewater from over 38,000 customers
• Provide recycling,trash and yard waste service to customers
• Permit and monitor all right-of-way activity
• Repair and maintain the City's parks, buildings,vehicles and equipment
• Support special events
We are proud to serve the residents, businesses and workers who live,work and play in our
city and hope that you enjoy reading some of our accomplishments from the 2024 calendar
year. For more information on the Public Service Department, please visit our website at
lansingmi.gov/pubserv.
Sincerely,
Andy Kilpatrick, P.E., Public Service Director
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DEPARTMENT ORGANIZATION
The City of Lansing Public Service Department is made up of six different divisions and
comprised of almost 220 full-time employees.The Public Service Department is organized
as follows:
OperationsAndrew Kilpatrick
Director
Jeremiah Kilgore
Deputy Director
Fleet Services H Wastewater Property Administration Engineering
Divison M Division EMaintenance Divisionj Division I Division Division
Property Manager City Engineer Superintendent
Infrastructure
Engineering
Environmental Forestry
Engineering Division
Transportation
Engineering
Permits Sewer
Division Maintenance Crew
Surface
Maintenance Crew
Street
Maintenance Crew
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SERVICES PROVIDED TO THE PUBLIC:
OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE DIVISION
The City of Lansing Public Service Department's Operations and Maintenance Division
(0&M) provides many of the services to the public that the Public Service Department
offers.These services include Capital Area Recycling and Trash (CART),which is responsible
for trash, recycling,and yard waste services for Lansing residents. Other services provided
by 0&M include the maintenance of cemeteries, parks,and community centers,sanitary and
storm sewer maintenance and inspections,street maintenance including pothole repairs,
milling, paving, curb and gutter repairs, and other concrete repairs.The 0&M division
oversees the forestry division,alley maintenance,sign shop, guard rail maintenance, street
sweeping, special projects including the installation of the State Christmas Tree in front of
the Capitol building,and winter weather maintenance such as plowing and salting Lansing
streets.
0&M STATISTICS AND ACHIEVEMENTS FOR 2024:
Cemeteries:
Burials are detail oriented and all religious and cultural denominations are accommodated
within the three cemeteries. Supervision and staff must be aware of burial practices for
each situation.Working well with Funeral Directors,vault companies,families and the
cemetery administrative specialist is imperative.
Currently, cemetery staff consists of two full-time employees and one seasonal.These two
employees worked together to assist and maintain 193 acres of cemetery, including Mt.
Hope Cemetery, Evergreen,and North Cemeteries. Staff ensured that cemetery grounds
were up kept by removing any deceased animals,trying to keep animals away such as
groundhogs,and removing any materials that were dumped on the properties.
This year,there were:
• 211 burials
• 1 disinterment
• 128 marker/monument cuts
• 9 Columbarium nameplate plaque mounts
Grounds Department:
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In 2024 Grounds crew accomplished the following:
• Cut back overgrown trees and brush throughout the entire Lansing River Trail
• 16 service requests received for River Trail board issues
• Maintained and made repairs to parks in Lansing
• Fixed or replaced multiple broken pieces of playground equipment in parks
• Removed approximately 37 homeless encampments along the River Trail and parks
• Maintained over 200 trash cans from public facilities per week
• Received and addressed 68 service request trash complaints
• Fitted over 80 fields for softball, baseball and soccer
• Installed skating rink for winter events at Rutter Park
• Graded and seeded multiple areas in parks returning to green space
• Provided snow maintenance for public sidewalks, River Trail,and community centers
• Removed hundreds of dead fish from Tecumseh Pond
Sanitary and Storm Sewer Maintenance and Inspection:
Crews work hard to clean, maintain,and inspect sanitary/storm sewer systems and flood
control systems while also responding to citizen concerns and performing preventative
maintenance.
In 2024 crews were able to clean:
• 1048 catch basins in 2024 compared to 77 in 2023
• Over 428,660 feet of sewer
Crews inspected and televised over 34,441 feet of sewer in 2024.
In 2024 crews repaired:
• 448 feet of sanitary/storm sewer mains
• 105 manholes and catch basins
See the photo below of the sewer repair on Shiawassee Street that required 3 different dig
ups due to a large broken BWL water main:
170
Streets:
In 2024,the primary focus of the department's street crews included millage paving
projects, major street repairs, pothole repairs,asphalt and concrete utility cut restoration
(and related sewer repairs) and addressing damaged sidewalk complaints.
Millage paving was successfully completed in 2024,as all planned roads were milled and
paved. The following streets were milled and paved this year:
• Eastlawn Drive (4712 Eastlawn Drive to Hazelwood Drive)
• Hazelwood Drive (Eastlawn Drive To Dunckel Road)
• Cavanaugh Road (Stabler Street to Cavanaugh Park sign)
• Hillcrest Street (Wainwright Avenue to Wadsworth Drive)
• Ingham Street (Hillcrest Street to Gibson Street)
• Conners Avenue (Lucie Street to Jolly Road)
• N Dexter Drive (Ellen Avenue to Cedarbrook Avenue)
• Plymouth Drive (Alden Drive to S Dexter Drive)
• Brookland Blvd (N Dexter Drive to Cedarbrook Avenue)
• Continental Drive (Averill Drive to Malibu Drive)
Crews made many concrete repairs such as sidewalk,curb,gutter,and driveway approaches
in 2024.
Skin patching on Cavanaugh west of Stabler:
171
'icy. _ 'A.. '�3
Pothole repairs:
In 2024 crews received a total of 1,024 pothole complaints and used over 840 tons of UPM
cold patch material to fill them.The chart below shows 2024 pothole activity outlined by
month compared to previous years:
POTHOLE ACTIVITY
600
2021
z -2022
500
a -2023
f00 400 �2024
c� AVERAGE
W
0 300
0
0 200
m 100
f
M
z
0
173
The foLLowing charts ULustrate comparisons of pothoLe compLaints by year and amount of
oLd patch materiaL used •
Pothole Complaints by the Year
1795
1378
i
1800
1600
1400
g1200
0
1000 782 2024 Pothde Complaints to Date
u
O 808
z
m 2023 Pothde Complaints
600
z
400 2022 Pothde Complaints
200 2021 Pothde Complaints
174
0
Yearly Comparison For Tons of Cold Patch Used
283 42
806.57
3,400
1•� 202a cola Patch to Da[e
I.000
800 ti32.96 2023 Yearry Taal
ti00
2022 Yearly Total
400
200 2021 YeaAy Taal
0
Surface Maintenance:
The mission of the Surface Maintenance Division of the Public Service Department is to
maintain and improve the 'on the surface' infrastructure within the City of Lansing's right of
ways.Surface also provides emergency and non-emergency event support, coordinating
with several departments throughout the City.Specific types of work performed in the
Surface Maintenance Division include maintaining alley ways, maintaining gravel streets,
street sweeping, leaf pushing,snow and ice removal, internal trash and recycling support,
right of way hazard abatement,guard rail repair,special event support,emergency
barricading and traffic control,and graffiti abatement. In 2024 crews completed the
following surface maintenance tasks:
• Maintained over 13 blocks of alley way
• Maintained a total of 60 gravel streets
• Completed over 200 sign shop service requests and over 600 sign shop work orders
— a decrease of approximately 9% compared to 2023
• Processed over 245 complaints and requests to remove trash and other items from
the right of way
• Removed approximately 98 retired wild animals from the right of way—
approximately 40% of those requests being deer
• Street swept and removed over 5000 cubic yards of debris from over 1100 lane
miles of right of way
• Swept major streets three times and state trunk lines two times during 2024
Winter Maintenance:
The Surface Maintenance Division is the inter-divisional section responsible for coordinating
the winter snow and ice removal from city streets.Additionally, we order and maintain the
inventory of road salt each year. Having an unusually mild last season has left us with a
significant amount of salt carry over. We will start the season off this year with over 6500
tons of road salt at our campus.Our operation consists of 15 salt/underbody plow trucks and
about 25 front plow trucks, some with underbody plows as well. With well over 400 lane
miles to maintain within the city, we historically use over 7000 ton of salt for street
maintenance. Additionally, we place and maintain over thirty-five salt/sand pails at school
crossings and other potentially hazardous points throughout the city. Our crews also assist
with sidewalk ice and snow violations throughout the winter season.
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See the salt storage unit and one of the new salt/plow trucks below:
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FORESTRY:
The Forestry Department maintains City owned trees and is made up of 11 full time
employees,two seasonal employees,and two supervisors. Currently the section has three
vacant full-time arborist positions. In 2024 the Forestry Department completed the
following:
Table 1. Forestry Section Service Requests by work type.
Broken Branch 95 9.29
Brush Down 277 27.06
Copper Sulfate Delivery 23 2.25
Pest Issue 15 1.47
Plant New Tree 39 3.81
Pruning Request 205 20.04
Tree Clearance Issue 68 6.65
Tree Construction Issue 3 .29
Tree Dead 77 7.53
Tree Fell 65 6.35
Tree Car Hit 2 .2
Tree Leaning 10 .98
Tree Removal 121 11.83
Root Issue 8 .78
Tree Split 9 .88
Other 6 .59
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Total 1023 100
Work Orders
A total of 1821 Work Orders were completed from November 2023 through November of
2024. This year staffing levels allowed the deployment of two (2) field crews where the
focus continued to be on hazard tree removal and resident pruning requests. Leading the
way with total numbers of Work Orders completed were Tree Removal, Brush Pickup,
Pruning, Broken Branch Removal,and Planting.Atotal. of 1951 trees received maintenance
trim and/or clearance pruning, 870 broken branches and piles of brush were cleaned up,
675 trees were removed,and 345 new trees were planted. See table below for completed
Work Order totals.
Table 2. Forestry Section completed Work Orders by work type.
Tree Removal 510 28.01
Brush Pickup 389 21.36
Pruning 320 17.57
Broken Branch 229 12.58
Planting 164 9.01
Clearance Trim 109 5.99
Construction Inspection 49 2.69
Copper Sulfate Delivery 25 1.37
Storm Stump/Root Removal 15 .82
Preventative Maintenance 7 .38
Pest Control 4 .22
Total 1821 100
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State of Michigan Christmas tree
Forestry partners with the State of Michigan each year in helping to make the holiday
season festive by"trimming"the official Capitol Christmas tree. See photos of the tree
below:
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RECYCLING, TRASH, AND YARD WASTE:
In 2024 the CART crews accomplished the following:
• Collected and processed approximately 4,875 tons of recycling (January- October)
• Hosted the Recycle-Rama event in April 2024
• Continued to provide blue cart trash service to 45% of single-family households in
Lansing
• Collected over 25,759 cubic yards of refuse from Lansing residents (January-
October)
• Collected approximately 1,002 bulky items picked up,this includes the collection of
furniture,appliances and other large items (January- November)
• Collected approximately 8,670 cubic yards of yard waste was collected from Lansing
in 2024 (April- October)
PERMITS OFFICE:
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The Public Service Department's Permits staff is responsible for oversight of public rights-
of-way, issuance of sewer and other permits, investigation of sidewalks,development and
oversight of special event traffic control,and other issues.Staff is cross trained to provide a
high level of service and respond to a wide range of issues.
This year,staff completed the following:
• Issued 21 Soil Erosion and Sedimentation permits (totaling to 22 active permits)
• Investigated 317 citizen-initiated sidewalk concerns
• Investigated 141 citizen-initiated CART/Trash receptacle in right-of-way concerns
• Responded to 218 snow and ice removal complaints
• Issued violation notices and removed snow and ice from 14 properties
• Issued 512 permits for right-of-way (ROW) construction activities
• Issued 200 Special Transportation Permits
• Permitted 345 sewer-related activities
• Licensed 62 drain layers and 5 sewer cleaners
• Oversaw a portion of Consumers Energy projects along with Metro Act permits
• Collaborated with MDOT assigned permits inspection within city limits
• Assisted with traffic control and planning for 36 special events that occupied the
City's ROW
ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT:
In 2024 the Engineering Department completed a variety of construction projects on local
and major roads,which included street resurfacing, pathway construction and
reconstruction, combined sewer separation projects,sewer maintenance, road
reconstruction,and utility work. In total,these projects cost over $40 million comprised of
federal,state,and local funds.
Infrastructure Projects:
Michigan Avenue Reconstruction Project — Pennsylvania Avenue to Clippert. Rehabilitation
and reconstruction of the roadway,sewer,water main, bike track and sidewalk. Construction
began in spring 2024 and is anticipated to continue through fall of 2025.
Pleasant Grove Road — Mt. Hope Road to Holmes Road in fiscal year 2025.The City is in the
beginning stages of design.The project will consist of milling and resurfacing the roadway
and construction is scheduled for the spring of 2025.
Major Street Projects — The City's Transportation Improvement Projects for fiscal year 2025
are Pennsylvania Avenue from Mt. Hope Avenue to Fayette Street, Mt. Hope Avenue from
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Pennsylvania Avenue to Aurelius Road, and Jolly Road from Cedar Street to Pennsylvania
Avenue.The next call for projects for Transportation Improvement Project funding (2026-
2029) was submitted to TCRPC this fall.
Local Street Mill & Resurface Projects - Local street resurfacing was completed on multiple
streets in 2024.These included sidewalk ramps upgrades and a one-course mill and
resurface of the pavement.The City may potentially include the following streets for
resurfacing next year: Robinson Road,Scarborough Road, Greenwich Court,Aurora Drive,
Heathgate Drive,Windmere Drive,Windward Drive, and Courtland Drive.
Lansing BWL Water Main Replacement Projects - The City continues to participate in the
local street portion of the LBWL water main replacement projects to be able to fully
reconstruct the street segments. In 2024,the LBWL replaced water main on Kendon Drive,
Julia Street,Wildwood Avenue, Midwood Street, Pleasant Grove Road,and Hughes Road. In
2025,the LBWL is planning on replacing water main on Richmond Street, Hillcrest Street,
and Mary Avenue.
Transportation Projects:
Non-Motorized Pathways
• Pedestrian pathway construction has been completed on the Ranney Park Pathway,
the Dunckel Road Pathway,the Fenner Nature Center Pathway,and the Corporate
Research Park Pathway.
• The Ranney Park Pathway included the installation of a new sidewalk on the east
side of Coolidge Road.
Traffic Signals
• Crews completed the modernization of the traffic signals along Michigan Avenue
• Updated the traffic signals associated with the one-way to two-way transition of
downtown roadways
• Conducted 139 traffic volume, speed, and percent truck counts
Traffic Control Orders
• 23 engineering studies and reports were completed.These studies include verifying
the turning movement counts and traffic delay/queue impacts.
Signs
• Performed over 760 sign work orders.These are comprised of sign replacements and
new sign installations.
Bridges:
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The City continues to secure MDOT funding for bridge preventative maintenance and
replacement projects. In 2024,the City completed preventative maintenance projects on
the Shiawassee Street,S.Washington Avenue, and N. MLK Jr. Boulevard bridges.
The City applied for a Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Bridge Investment Program
(BIP) grant for the reconstruction of the E. Elm Street Bridge.The BIP grant was successfully
awarded to MDOT as part of their bridge bundling program. MDOT will be administering
this project with the City's input and the construction is expected to take place over the
next few years.
In 2024 the City of Lansing performed the federally required biennial bridge inspections on
3 of the City owned and operated bridges in Lansing.Annual bridge inspections were
performed on the 3 bridges that require annual inspection.These inspections include
motorized and non-motorized pedestrian bridges.Three pedestrian bridges were removed
in 2024 and no longer require inspection. No underwater bridge inspections were
performed in 2024. Required channel cross sections were performed for one bridge.
Sidewalks:
As part of the funding allocated to improving sidewalks adjacent to City properties,the City
has removed and replaced sidewalk along Riverside Park.The City is reviewing other City
properties for sidewalk improvements in 2025,and is evaluating the best way to move
forward with sidewalk repairs and replacements throughout the City.
The sidewalk repair program for 2024 continued to focus on eliminating reported trip
hazards throughout the city.There were 2,315 sidewalk joints cut,and 209 sections of
sidewalk wedged with asphalt.To maintain a 50-year replacement cycle for sidewalks, 12
miles of sidewalk would need to be replaced annually at a cost of over $3 million.
There are over 600 miles of sidewalks in the city.The Engineering Department continues to
work on the major street sidewalk gap closure program and on sidewalk repairs and
upgrades.There are approximately over 59 miles of gaps on major streets in the city;
eliminating these gaps would cost approximately over $16 million. In coordination with the
City's street and utility projects,over 75 sidewalk ramps were reconstructed to meet ADA
standards.
Wet Weather Control Program (WWCP):
In 2024,there were three projects with construction activities for the City's Wet Weather
Control Program.These Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Separation projects typically
construct new sanitary sewer, new watermain, new concrete curb & gutter, new roadway,
new concrete driveway approaches, and sidewalk ramps. In addition,the projects include
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rehabilitation of (i.e., replacement of some) public sidewalk and rehabilitation of the
existing combined sewers to become the dedicated storm sewers.
There were four CSO Sewer Separation projects under construction during the 2024
season:
• CSO 034D Project: Located in the eastern portion of the Colonial Village
Neighborhood and is essentially complete. Restoration and punch list items have
been addressed.
• CSO 034E Project: Located in the triangular-shaped project area roughly
bounded by S.Washington Avenue on the westside; Greenlawn Avenue on the
southside; and Strathmore Road on the eastside; Construction completed, punch
List items remain. Contractor will abandon and eliminate the CSO Regulator for
this sub area.A CSO Regulator is the sewer structure that allows for overflow of
raw sewage to local waterways during rain events.
• CSO 015S Project: Roughly bounded by Lapeer Street on the northside;
Sycamore Street on the eastside; Ottawa Street on the southside; and Verlinden
Avenue on the westside.The construction of this project will continue into 2025.
The contractor expected to work through the winter again to assist with the
schedule.
• CSO 016/017 Phase 2: Located in the Turner-Dodge neighborhood (NW of E
North Street and Turner Road).Construction is ongoing and is expected to be
completed in 2025.
The City is currently designing two additional WWCP Projects:
• The CSO 019 Project: Bounded by N.Grand River Avenue to the east,Chestnut Street
to the west,Saginaw Street to the south,and Maple Street to the north, is at 75
design.This project is expected to begin construction in the spring of 2025.
• The Lansing Avenue Pump Station Equalization Basin Project: This project will
install a 5-million-gallon equalization basin at the pump station site location on
Lansing Avenue,east of the Wastewater Treatment Plant.This basin will provide
storage to safeguard the processes at the WWTP.This project is expected to begin
construction in the spring of 2025.
Wastewater Treatment Plant:
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The Wastewater Treatment Plant is responsible for accepting raw sewage in Lansing and
processing it into clean water and safely discharging it into the Grand River. In 2024 the
Wastewater Treatment Plant accomplished the following:
• Accepted over 5.32 billion gallons of raw sewage and successfully processed it into
clean water
• Processed 50.65 million gallons of clean final effluent on January 26,2024
• 0 EGLE National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit violations
• 0 Lost time accidents
• Generated over 3266 dry tons of residual solids that were disposed using green
solutions
In 2024,the staff at the City of Lansing wastewater treatment plant have been busy
performing their normal daily tasks,their monthly equipment changeovers,and their
annual cleaning and preventative maintenance duties.The staff have also worked with
contractors to empty one of the five digesters that have been full of sludge and abandoned
for over fifty years. Staff hope to begin to empty another digester in the Spring of 2025.The
treatment plant is also about to begin a detailed solids handling study,to prepare for
future needed upgrades to the solids handling process.
We have also worked with contractors to re-line the backwash water return force main,
which has been in operation since the 1970's.We are currently going out for bids to replace
one of the South final clarifier's mechanical equipment,that has been in operation since
the 1980's.
Listed below are some of the other major projects that were completed this year.
Backwash-water return force-main relining project:
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South aeration,drain-pump valve replacement Okemos Rd. pumpstation generator
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INTERNAL SERVICES AND OPERATIONS:
ADMINISTRATION
Administrative Assistant:
The Administrative Assistant provides administrative support for all engineering projects
and permits staff,as well as provides executive level support to the Director and Deputy
Director. Functions of the Administrative Assistant include managing accounts payable and
receivable,working with the Public Engagement Coordinator to ensure information is up to
date and correct,assists with special projects such as grants and records management,
assists with winter maintenance information,and many other office functions.
Administrative staff handles incoming service requests, FOIA requests, routes resolutions
and contracts, processes claims,and compiles the Department Budget.
Communications:
The role of the Public Engagement Coordinator in the Public Service Department is to
communicate information from each division within the Public Service Department to the
public in the City of Lansing through various mediums.The type of information that is
communicated includes traffic advisories,construction project information,special events,
emergencies,sustainability initiatives,and CART information.
In 2024 a major event that the Public Engagement Coordinator was involved in included
announcing the switch to a new payment system for CART and the Public Service Permits
Office, PayIT.Another large event that required communication efforts was the Michigan
Avenue Rehabilitation Project that began in the spring of 2024 and will continue through
Late 2025.
In 2024 the Public Engagement Coordinator completed the following:
• Issued approximately 139 traffic advisories
• Issued approximately 36 special event advisories
Sustainability:
The City of Lansing has set an ambitious goal to reduce GHG emissions by 59% by 2030.
We continue to implement the goals of the Sustainability Action Plan (SAP) and the Climate
Action Plan (CAP) to equitably mitigate the worst impacts of climate change and transition
Lansing to a more sustainable and resilient city.
The list below describes some 2024 projects that work toward increasing the tree canopy,
reducing transportation-related emissions, reducing food waste/organics,drawing down
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carbon in Lansing's built environment, investing in renewable energy and addressing food
insecurity.
• Urban Forestry project - Kicked off in late 2024, 5 year, $5M project,funded by the
USDA,will create a public engagement program,develop education and outreach
tools, plant and maintain at least 2000 trees and offer learning opportunities and
forestry career pathways
• Electric Vehicle Infrastructure project - 5 year, $8M project,funded by DOT - to
implement Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure in the region; will kick off soon
• Nonmotorized plan update - secured funding through the State of Michigan/EGLE
Community Energy Management grant
• Recycling Drop off site - expected to open by the early 2025 - funded by State of
Michigan/EGLE Recycling Infrastructure grant
• New commercial recycling truck- funded by State of Michigan/EGLE Recycling
Infrastructure grant,will allow for expansion of commercial recycling services
• Pilot food scrap collection program - launched in September of 2024 to collect food
scraps from 5 different drop off sites within the City.The intent is to divert as much
food waste as possible, reducing methane emissions associated with organic
material in landfills and raising awareness.
o This work is supported by a full time Climate Corp position. MI Healthy
Climate Corps is an AmeriCorps program administered by Office of Climate
and Energy in Michigan's Department of Environment, Great Lakes,and
Energy in partnership with the Community Economic Development
Association of Michigan and supported by the Michigan Community Service
Commission.
• Grow Lansing recap - Using a $175,000 grant from the US Conference of Mayors,
the City created a mini grant program designed to create new and enhance existing
community gardens.To date,the program has helped fund 23 different projects
through $114,947 in awards to local community members.
• Lansing 2030 District - Lansing is positioned to become the 41h 2030 District in
Michigan; this is a partnership with the Michigan Green Building Council and
demonstrates a commitment to creating high performing buildings and smart
mobility options that drawdown carbon in Lansing's built environment.
• GHG inventory update - Work will begin in November 2024 to conduct the City's 2nd
GHG inventory,which will provide important data and information to help mitigate
the impacts of climate change.
• Wood utilization project - First phase will begin in late 2024 and will focus on
understanding current assets,data and processes,to ultimately implement a
municipal urban wood recycling program.
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• Solar project development —Work began in late 2024,working with a consultant to
prepare the City for solar installations on several municipal buildings
Operation Specialist:
The Operation Specialist helps facilitate the current Public Service Department internships,
writes grants with the SustainabilityTeam and other Departments, helps develop
sustainability initiatives,and performs records management and digitalization of City
documents and materials.
In 2024 the operation specialist completed the following:
• All 90+ volumes of City of Lansing survey books from the early 1900s have been
donated and preserved with the Capital Area District Library's Local History Division.
• Outsourced the digitization of the Public Service Department's Plat Map Bound
Books. 1,138 maps were digitized into 17 folders alphabetical.These digital scans
are saved in the City's record repository system Laserfiche and internally for city
staff on the share drive.
• Public Service Department sewer microfiche — with the assistance of the CADL Local
History staff, cross-checked the already digitized to the microfiche cards not
digitized and then, utilized the State of Michigan Library's microfiche readers to
digitize over 800+ remaining microfiche cards for long-term preservation.These
images are also saved in Laserfiche and internally for city staff on the share drive.
• Thousands of documents (street files, resident letters, physical photographs,site
plans and maps,and other ephemera) have been donated to CADL in an ongoing
partnership between the library and the Public Service Department.The department
staff sort through the documents and provide the meta-data and cataloging
information for each collection.
• Michigan Climate Corp Member — Assisted in on-boarding and orientation of
Climate Corps Member serving the City of Lansing between March 2024 — November
2024. Provided supervision as needed by request of the City Sustainability Manager.
Supported their primary assigned projects: City Food Scrap Program and the GROW
Lansing Community Gardening Mini-Grant Program (implementation, logistics,and
resource connections).
Fleet Services:
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Fleet Services is responsible for City vehicles, including maintenance, repair, purchase,
disposal. In 2024 Fleet Services completed the following:
• Supervised 878 units of equipment including 531 "rolling stock" units and 347
pieces of"non-rolling"equipment
• Completed over 2912 work orders with 8858 job codes.
• Wrote 125 accident jobs
• Had 229 units towed for services
• Fleet received over $6,000,000.00 in new vehicles and equipment covered by funds
from the American Rescue Plan Act. Police patrol cars, Fire apparatuses and
Snowplow trucks.
• Fleet recently reclasses two positions, Fleet will now have a storeroom Supervisor
and an assistant Fleet Superintendent
• Fleet has created a new training position for technicians
Fleet currently has 30 full-time positions with a vacancy rate of 36.6%.
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Property Management:
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The mission of Public Services Property Management and Building Maintenance is to create
and support a well-maintained City of Lansing infrastructure and to provide quality service
in a responsive and efficient manner to all our customers.
In 2024, Property Management staff completed over 1827 work orders.This year our team
partnered with the Information Technology Department to complete the installation of new
conference room (ZOOM) equipment in (9) locations throughout the city, primarily in
administrative offices, Lansing Public Media and fire stations. This IT initiative replaces
outdated equipment and provides updated technology for the departments of the city.
In May, Lansing Parks & Recreation began the Moores Park Pool renovations. Listed in the
National Register of Historic Places, Moores Memorial Natatorium is a City of Lansing
treasure. Property Management is assisting with the equipment selection process to ensure
ease of proper maintenance for the new pool equipment, utilities and building security.
The new Public Safety Complex which started demolition in 2023 has progressed well,with
substantial completion in June 2024 of hazardous waste abatement and building demolition.
The project progresses with site work clearing,grading and excavating for utility installations
and water and sewer setup. Foundation work begins while additional site work continues.
Completion is on schedule for 2027. This project is paid for through a General Obligation
Unlimited Tax Bond.
The Lansing Fire Department announced in August it would be closing Fire Station 2 located
on N. Grand River to demolish and rebuild a new fire station in its place, which began in
September. Property Management removed and relocated functional hardware, security
equipment, and controls for future use. Planning and Permitting is progressing with final
demolition expected in the spring.
This year, Property Management ran a department deficiency of 30%.Today, I can say with
the efforts of many departments and individuals,we're running at a 13% vacancy.Thanks to
the Human Resource Department we've successfully offered two of the UAW 500 positions
to Brandon Harris and Aaron Krueger who have accepted. The department has two vacant
UAW 500 positions. David Reinhold has been promoted to Building Manager, filling that
vacant position.Additionally, Brian Gregurich and Jack Shokha are the successful candidates
for the vacant Building Services Supervisor 39 position.
Health and safety procedures are the forefront of facility maintenance. Property
Management covers many different locations from Parks to Police and Fire Departments.
We've completed our extensive background checks and annual safety training.Training
included: confined space training, lock out-tag out instructions,and PPE personal
protection equipment, proper use.
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This year's scheduled events brought many residents together to enjoy summer weather,
and fun outdoor activities. Staff successfully supported 32 summer events in 2024. The
List includes Concert In the Park —July 411, Scrap Fest —July 12, Dam Jam —July 19, Durant
Park Concert —July 24, Bless Fest — Aug 23-25, Chicken Wing Festival —Aug. 31,Traditional
Pow Wow — Sept. 28th,and Silver Bells Nov. 22nd to close out the year.
Over the summer a host of Parks Department projects were completed.At Turner Dodge
Mansion we increased ADA access and compliance. Renovations to Hunter Park Pool include
painting, installing a mural,and we installed new security cameras and lights.At Ranney
Ball Field installation of new cupola including restoration of an historic weathervane. New
exterior siding was replaced at Fenner Nature Center. Continuous upgrades to our city
buildings: Fire Monitoring,Security Cameras,and Security Lighting, making Lansing safe for
its residents and city workers. Additional new EV charging stations throughout the City,at
Fleet Services and Hazel Street Warehouse to mention a few.We are currently working
through the purchasing process for contractual services for designing renovation building
plans for the new City of Lansing Clerks office building located a 701 W.Jolly Road.
Staff are preparing our department vehicles,working with Fleet Services,to install
snowplows and salt boxes for the winter season.The snowplow schedule has been posted
for 2024-25.
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TREASURY & INCOME TAX
CRYSTAL THOMAS, CITY TREASURER
The Treasury & Income Tax Department is responsible for the administration of the city's
property tax and income tax programs.The responsibilities and duties are numerous and
fall into specific areas.
The Treasury Division bills and collects the real, personal property,and delinquent personal
property taxes.Treasury is also responsible for the overall collection of the Lansing City
department revenues and remittances through the process of cash receipting,
departmental daily deposits,as well as the safekeeping and investment of City funds,
monies,and non-pension related securities.
The Income Tax Division collects income taxes for Lansing residents and non-residents
who work in Lansing.Additionally,this division works with multiple Lansing-based and
regional employers to complete accurate employee withholding.
TREASURY DIVISION
• Issues over 90,000 property tax bills in July and December. Collects over $180
million in property tax each year.
• Collected and distributed real and personal property taxes for Ingham, Eaton,and
Clinton counties,seven area school districts, Lansing Community College, Capital
Area District Library, Capital Area Transit Authority,the Airport Authority,and the 425
agreement partners,along with several other partner agreements.
• Collects and distributes payments for Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) holders,
SmartZone, Principal Shopping District, PA 328 Property Tax Abatements,the Tax
Increment Finance Authority (TIFA), brownfield developers,and the Economic
Development Corporation.
• Completes Brownfield Authority,TIFA,and Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Act
(OPRA) reports for compliance with the State of Michigan.
• Collects nuisance fees, code enforcement violations,false alarm fees,diversion
program fees,and Industrial Facility Taxes (IFT).
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• Presented and discussed services and processes in community meetings (such as
Junior Achievement and Citizens Academy) to further inform residents of who the
department is and what responsibilities are to demystify the stigma that is attached
to taxes and tax payments.
• Increased professional development and training to better operations efficiency and
customer service via certifications, cross-training,and attending professional
conferences.
INCOME TAX DIVISION
• Reviewed and audited over 67,058 individual income tax returns (corporate,
partnership,s corporation,and fiduciary).
• Collected over $45.1 million in tax collections.
• The Employee Withholding Subgroup worked with approximately 6,331 employers to
withhold wage taxes from approximately 175,018 (109,381 non-residents 65,637
resident) employees.
• Withholding tax management: implemented a new cross-referencing procedure to
help identify employees who failed to file the annual LV3 return. The new method
increased registration rates by 13%.
• Enhanced collection efforts by implementing a robust collection strategy, including a
new garnishment program.Overall collection revenue increased by 28%.
• Produced an awareness video to assist taxpayers with filing complete and timely
income tax returns in collaboration with City TV.
NEW PROCESSES
• Making efforts to expand language accessibility for income tax forms online;
partnering with the IRS to provide language translation services.
• Utilizing data analytics to assist with strategic planning for compliance and collection
activities.
• Implementing a collection model after income tax to increase delinquent personal
property compliance and collection.
• Establishing quality control checks with property tax.
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ASSOCIATED ENTITIES
LANSING ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
LJALansing Economic
Development Corporation
Summary
The Lansing EDC is a nonprofit economic development organization focused exclusively on
the city of Lansing.We serve as a bridge between the public and private sectors to create a
stronger economy and better community.We are a diverse team of skilled and knowledgeable
professionals who share a passion for serving Lansing.Our mission is to improve the Lansing
community by fostering strategic, sustainable,and equitable economic growth.
The Lansing EDC also manages the Lansing Brownfield Redevelopment Authority(LBRA),the
Lansing Tax Increment Financing Authority(TIFA),and four Corridor Improvement Authorities
(CIAs) in Lansing. Each entity allows access to various grants, loans,and financing tools.
The LBRA's Local Brownfield Revolving Fund (LBRF) continues to help promote
redevelopment efforts at sites throughout the City of Lansing by assisting with
environmental assessments and redevelopment planning.
The Lansing TIFAfinances downtown public infrastructure and facilities that promote private
economic activities and development.
The CIAs bring together the businesses and stakeholders along key commercial road
corridors to create and implement development and finance plans to revise those areas
economically and aesthetically.
Corridor Improvement Authorities
The City and Lansing EDC has also targeted four commercial corridors to focus special
redevelopment efforts. These Corridor Improvement Authorities are the Michigan Avenue
Corridor Improvement Authority (MACIA), Saginaw Street Corridor Improvement Authority
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(SSCIA), South Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Corridor Improvement Authority (SMLKCIA) and
the Lansing Gateway Corridor Improvement Authority.
The S. Martin Luther King Corridor Improvement Authority (SMLKCIA) has continued its
efforts to implement traffic calming measures along the corridor.The S. MLK CIA is working
with the Michigan Department of Transportation to install and maintain pedestrian islands
along the corridor in 2025. These measures strive to reduce the number of accidents and
deaths on the corridor and encourage more pedestrian activity. In addition to this effort,four
covered CATA bus shelters were installed along the corridor this year.The S. MLK CIA, with
the assistance of the Thriving Communities Grant and community
organizations/stakeholders, plans to host an art competition for local students. The art
selected from this competition will decorate the bus shelters.
The S. MLK CIA plans to launch a business improvement grant for businesses on the corridor
to improve the aesthetic and vibrancy of the corridor. In addition to that effort, the S. MLK
CIA installed street sign toppers in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., using the topper to
help brand the corridor as the "Dream Corridor" The S. MLK CIA continues to work with the
City's stakeholders to redevelop the Logan Square shopping center. Finally,The S.MLK CIA is
working with the city to demolish abandoned buildings along the corridor,with the goal of
establishing more green space and development-ready sites within the corridor.
The Saginaw Street Corridor Improvement Authority (SSCIA) has been working on a
marketing and communications outreach program.The SSCIA established a communications
and marketing subcommittee made up of individuals from the community and the board.The
subcommittee developed a marketing plan and RFP for services.The SSCIA hopes to find a
Local marketing firm to work with on its efforts.Over the summer,the SSCIA worked together
to install a beautification project at the west side entrance to the corridor, known as the
point.The SSCIA also funded the"LANSING"Sign project,proudly hosted on the corridor.The
"LANSING"Sign project consists of seven six-foot-tall letters proclaiming the City's name and
was decorated by seven local artists.
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The Michigan Avenue Corridor Improvement Authority (MACIA) continues to support local
businesses on the corridor during the lengthy street redesign. MACIA installed eye-catching
signage on the adjacent streets to redirect consumers to businesses on Michigan Avenue.
The MACIA is progressing on its Block 2000 Facade Improvement effort,the authority hopes
to complete this project in 2025.
The North Grand River Avenue Corridor Improvement Authority known as the Lansing
Gateway CIA approved their Development and Tax Increment Finance (Development &TIF)
Plan late this summer. The Development & TIF Plan outlines development efforts for the
CIA, including community engagement,corridor aesthetics and infrastructure improvements,
and business support initiatives.The Lansing Gateway CIA will use the 2024 taxable value
of the properties along the corridor as their baseline and start capturing tax increments in
2025 to fund their efforts. Utilizing the $100,000 ARPA funds allocated to the LGCIA, the
authority installed street sign toppers along the corridor, planted a landscaping project on
the east side of the corridor,and hosted a community event at the Turner-Dodge House.
Lansing Equitable Economic Development (LEED) Initiative
In 2021, the Jobs and Economic Development Workgroup of Lansing Mayor Andy Schor's
Racial Justice and Equity Alliance identified the critical need to ensure Lansing's BIPOC
(Black, Indigenous, People of Color) populations have the tools,opportunities, and access to
expertise, resources, and training needed to start and sustain successful businesses, and to
participate in the economic development process.
To address these findings, the Lansing EDC developed the Lansing Equitable Economic
Development (LEED) Initiative. The LEED Initiative was designed to equip BIPOC
entrepreneurs with financial resources and technical assistance to build strong successful
businesses and increase the number of BIPOC-led real estate development projects.
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The Empower Program is a component of the LEED Initiative. In 2024, 11 Lansing business
owners participated in the 2n1 cohort of the Empower Program.The Empower Program is a
6-month program that provides business owners with a team of dedicated project managers,
consultants, and business specialists to create and implement an individualized business
development plan. Business owners also participate in bi-weekly in-person training sessions
around business strategy, marketing, establishing systems and automation to scale their
operations, and other topics. Participants have received photography services to develop
marketing and promotional materials, human resource consulting to develop staffing
strategies and systems, financial management consulting, and a host of other technical
assistance free of charge.
The Lansing EDC is in the process of launching additional programs that will provide funds
for BIPOC-owned business sustainability and expansion. These programs will also provide
training, mentorship, and networking opportunities for emerging BIPOC real estate
developers and spur investment in focus areas in the city of Lansing.
Development Projects
The LEDC is involved with economic development projects that start out as a plan, idea, or
strategy, and then with help from LEDC staff they become a solid prospect that flourishes
into an economic development project. By working with our local and state partners, the
LEDC staff identifies potential financial tools or incentives to help the project overcome
economic obstacles. LEDC staff then assist prospects through the approval process and sets
them up to start their ventures. Once the economic project starts, the LEDC monitors its
progress and continues to assist as opportunities arise. Upon project completion the LEDC
audits the projects to ensure that commitments and promises made to the City have been
met and the project is a success both for the private and public stakeholders.
For the year 2024, Lansing EDC was able to get 4 projects from the Prospect to the Approved
stage.These projects represent nearly half a billion dollars in new investment in Lansing and
are now ready to start construction or are already underway.
• Projects Approved in 2024
0 1102 S.Washington Avenue: Commercial Redevelopment
o New Vision Lansing: Multi-Family Residential and Commercial Redevelopment
o The Ovation Music and Arts Center: Commercial and Cultural Redevelopment
o Neogen Expansion: Business Development
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During 2024, Lansing EDC also had several previously approved projects either in the
construction phase or completed.
• Projects Completed in 2024
o 505/507 E. Shiawassee: Commercial Redevelopment
• Projects Underway in 2024
0 230 S. Holmes: Multi-Family Residential
o Consumers Energy Service Center: Business Development
o Plant 6/Racer Trust Site: Business Development
Facade Improvement Program
Lansing EDC administers the City of Lansing Facade Improvement Grant Program. This
program provides design assistance as well as reimbursement for the redevelopment and
improvement of exterior commercial facades.The purpose of this program is to assist with
aesthetic beauty and safety improvements as well as enhance the street appearance of
Lansing businesses. Because of this program, Lansing properties have become more
attractive to customers and the community, increasing the overall value of local businesses.
Facade Projects Approved in 2024
In 2024,12 businesses were awarded grants from the Facade Improvement Program,totaling
$170,000, spurring an additional $250,000 in private investment. Businesses supported
through the Facade Improvement Program can be found all over Lansing and have been
appreciated by the community and business owners, who see this as a way for the city of
Lansing to reinvest in the Lansing economy.
2024 FACADE AWARDEE ADDRESS
A Novel Concept 222 S.Washington Sq.
Chardi Kala 926 W.Saginaw St.
Chief Cart Inc 2829 S. MLK Blvd.
Innate Chiropractic Center 7045 S.Cedar St.
Media Advantage 934 N.Washington Ave
Reo Town Clubhouse 1314 S.Washington Ave
Sparrow Bloom 223 S.Washington
Sweet Custom Jewelry 1521 E. Michigan Ave.
Sylvia Sudsery 720 E. Michigan Ave
Thai Village 400 S.Washington Sq.
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The Robin Theater 1105 S.Washington Ave
Tiny Bit of Wood 507 E. Shiawassee
Business Services
In 2024 the Lansing EDC offered several business services to local Lansing businesses.These
services included workshops and seminars, liquor licenses and business loans.
The liquor license program is to assist businesses that are looking to obtain a liquor license
but have difficulty finding a suitable liquor license on the open market. The Lansing EDC
assisted two new businesses with obtaining liquor licenses in growing parts of the city.The
first was a development liquor license forJollofAfro Caribbean Lounge in downtown Lansing.
The second was a redevelopment liquor license with Lansing DuckPin Bowling, which is in
the Red Cedar Redevelopment District.
The Lansing EDC also continued to assist local businesses with our microloan program.The
microloan program offers favorable loan terms to businesses that need short-term financial
assistance.The Lansing EDC has loaned over $200,000 in direct assistance to six businesses
in the Lansing area.This past year the Lansing EDC provided $50,000 in loan support.
Additionally,the Lansing EDC partnered with PNC Bank to offer workshops and six seminars
for small businesses, with topics ranging from business plans to financials. This program
provided a venue for local business owners to come and ask questions about business
banking, business lending, business financials,and techniques to lower costs and grow their
businesses. The Lansing EDC and PNC were able to help educate and assist over 25 local
Lansing business owners through this program.
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- Downtown Lansing Inc.—
• • Making a Real Difference.
• : • At Downtown Lansing Inc., we're thrilled to have you alongside us
•
as we work to make Downtown Lansing a thriving and inclusive
.• district where residents, business owners,volunteers, and city
• - leaders work together and where all stakeholders feel a sense of
welcome, inclusion, and opportunity in Downtown Lansing!
• New developments, enhanced outdoor spaces, diverse businesses
and more are bringing new energy and activity to the area,
making downtown a prime destination for businesses, residents,
and visitors alike!
Downtown's Goals
• - Foster downtown as an energetic, dense and walkable
•• residential neighborhood
Nurture a vibrant, diverse and robust business
• • district.
• • Cultivate active and welcoming public spaces. Z
• • . Build sustainable funding for a sustainable
organization. Downtown
Lansing Inc.
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TRANSFORMING LANSINGS DOWNTOWN
Amu-
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CULTURE:We are creating a culture COMMUNITY:Working collaboratively COMMERCE: DLI offers diverse tools
where residents, business owners, to uplift our neighborhood because and resources tailored to support
volunteers, and city leaders work downtown is more than just a local businesses like yours. Last year
together to achieve common district. It's a place to start,to we supported 45+ local businesses
goals, championing the future of connect, unwind, and celebrate! with $1.8 million in grants.
Downtown Lansing.
DLI is Helping Businesses Thrive
2� —ZOZ Tenant Improvement Grants Sidewalk Cafe Furniture Grant
s Middle Village Accelerator Program
Match on Main Coordinating grand opening and
anniversary celebrations
• • Sign Grant Program
1 / / Street construction stakeholder
• Downtown Business Huddle input sessions and support
•• • • Monthly business trainings
Monthly merchant news
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•• - to date: "DLI's commitment to supporting the downtown business
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Businesses getting AOTA nestled in on our 300 block corner of Washtenaw and
• •g ' to date:116 Washington. We are truly feeling the synergy of the community here."
Community —Ozay Moore,Founder/Executive Director,All of the Above Hip Hop Academy
Downtown Lansing 1 2024
Downtown Drive Time Markets
Households 5 Minutes 10 Minutes 20 Minutes
Population 20,582 119,078 339,842
F°' MedianHouseholds 9,638 51,475 141,747
Median HH Income $44,228 $53,408 $64,392
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In-demand Businesses
HousingFood & Drink Shopping & Retail
Breakfast/brunch Pharmacy
91%Housing is occupied Italian Apparel
• - • -• Bakery Home goods
46%Renter-occupied Ice cream/sweets Special event apparel
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The City We See • . • j I I •
By creating an environment that caters to residents'daily needs and fosters
community interaction, Downtown Lansing is transforming into a dynamic • _ •
urban center.We're leading downtown's transformation through a smart, • -
common-sense approach as we work collaboratively with partners to
strengthen our existing assets and diversify the future landscape as we •
lead the way forward for our state during this time of exciting momentum • • • • • • ••and growth.
Dive into downtown's vibrant mix of music,delicious eats,cultural experiences - -• • - -•
and our riverfront located right in the heart of the city—it's all waiting for you! -
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the vision and strategic plan for the future of Downtown Lansing.Let's pave the
way for growth,vibrancy,and a downtown where everyone can thrive together!"
—Cathleen Edgerly,Executive Director of Downtown Lansing Inc.
Downtown Lansing
StreetMain - 2023-24
Downtown Lansing's Board of Directors and Staff
President:Jen Estill Member:Karl Dorshimer CD Director:Julie Reinhardt
67P987 Vice President:Joshua Pugh Member:Jesse Flores Marketing/Brand Specialist:
Est.event Treasurer:Julie Durham Member:Keri Tomac Shakayla Zoss
attendance Secretary:Jennifer Hinze Event/Outreach Manager:
Winterfest Silver Bells in the City Member: STAFF Mario Gonzales
Best of Lansing Olive Burger Festival Nikki Thompson-Frazier Exec.Director:Cathleen Edgerly Office Mgr:Audrey Brayton
Trick-or-Treat on Downtown
the Square Farmers Market
Seasonal Downtown Live Music Thursdays
Markets Hispanic Heritage MICHIGAN
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Local art beautifies our community.
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LANSING ENTERTAINMENT & PUBLIC FACILITIES
AUTHORITY
Tristan Wright, President & CEO
L KV P FA
Lansing Entertainment&
Public Facilities Authority
Department Description
The Lansing Entertainment& Public Facilities Authority(LEPFA) is a governmental agency of the
City of Lansing, providing professional management in the administration, operation, marketing
and maintenance of the Lansing Center, Jackson Field, Groesbeck Golf Course and other
community/regional interest events and activities.
Accomplishments in 2024
The position of the Lansing Entertainment & Public Facilities Authority (LEPFA) has continued to
recover in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. We are currently at 92%full-time staffing, with
36 of the 39 full-time positions filled. Despite the fact that LEPFA continues to encounter
challenges related to personnel, supply chain, and inflation (including increases in utility and
food costs), we have observed progress.The absence of investment in the infrastructure of
LEPFA-managed properties has resulted in supplementary obstacles to conducting business.
Nevertheless, the Lansing Center did receive $5 million from the state of Michigan in 2023,
which has been used to finance a variety of enhancements over the past fifteen years. The
State of Michigan's $5 million appropriations have been allocated to renovations, including
technological enhancements, safety and security upgrades, roof restorations, and the
implementation of a new food option. Groesbeck Golf Course has consistently maintained a
strong position in terms of revenue, amenities, rounds, and play. Moreover, LEPFA has made
significant investments in the course and its infrastructure, thereby enhancing the overall play
and customer evaluations of this city asset. Jackson Field received the most infrastructure
investments to enhance the stadium to meet MLB (Major League Baseball) standards. Although
the majority of special events have been postponed, LEPFA remains optimistic that they will
resume in the summer of 2025. For the fiscal year 2023, LEPFA received an unmodified clean
audit.
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LANSING w' o CENTEP
The Lansing Center (LC) held 190 events this past year with nearly 433 event days. Over 128,000
people attended events at the LC throughout the year, and under 15,000 directly attributable
room nights. The Lansing Center has recycled over 15,000 pounds of material this year and
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contributed over 12,000 pounds of re-usable food items to the Greater Lansing Food Bank &
Food Movers, while continuing to offer opportunities to staff and our events/facilities to help
those in need in our community.
While there has been a minor uptick in the meetings and events sector, numbers have not
yet returned to pre-Covid levels. The scale and scope of events are expected to gradually
return, with further growth in meetings and events anticipated until 2025. It is anticipated
that rising labor, utility, and goods expenses as well as general inflation will put pressure on
revenues. Even though events are returning, total attendance is still recovering from the
COVID-19 pandemic.
Improvements to the Lansing Center Property/Infrastructure include:
• Transitioned 34 lights in main concourse corridor to LED to increase lighting and energy
efficiency.
• Re-landscaped the Gazebo and Capital View area to include new plants and trees to
assist in a more welcoming and lush landscape on the riverside of the building.
• A new riding vacuum and walk behind carpet extractor were purchased to assist and
maintain a healthier carpet environment for guests
• We purchased a 20-foot scissor lift to improve upon safety and increase efficiency with
normal maintenance items, as well as increasing efficiency for events with hanging
equipment needs.
• Re-equipped a concession stand while also improving the fagade
• Increased our internet bandwidth to assist with customer needs for events to also
include new hardware.
• Finished the final phase of repairing the riverside balcony which overlooks the gazebo
area
• Replaced the Domestic Cold-water line that supplies the Lansing Center with Water that
was failing and corroding due to age.
• Replaced a section of roof over the Rotunda area of the Lansing Center.
JACKS �DN"'
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During 2024 season,the Lugnuts welcome 266,369 fans to Jackson Field and hosted 66 home games
attendance took a dip in 2024 but there were several factors that attributed to the small dip in
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attendance. MiLB was down about 3% across the board so that played a role. However,there were
some local factors that attributed to the small dip in attendance. The Lugnuts had (four rainouts) in
2024 typical they have never had more than two in a season in prior years. Road construction was a
factor in making if challenging to get to the downtown area. Lastly the Lugnuts were on the road in 2024
on the 0 of July for the first time in 23 seasons.Typically, the 4"of July sells out. The team finished
with an overall record of 59-72, which placed them fifth in the division.
The Lugnuts did find success on a couple of new promotional nights with the hopes of growth.They
hosted "Peatnuts" nut featuring Charlei Brown and the gang which was the top performing Peanuts
night in MiLB.The Lugnuts saw the largest uptick in attendance for the night over their average as well
as one of the biggest gains in retail sales for the night over their averages.The Lugnuts continues to find
success with their music-themed nights featuring the music of Motown and partnering with the Motown
Museum as well as a very popular Margaritaville Night telling the story of Jimmy Buffett and how he
claims that the state of Michigan was key to his success and ultimate rise in popularity.
The Lugnuts saw a significant growth in their Copa de la Diversion nights where they play as the Lansing
Locos. For the first time in Lugnuts history,they committed to wearing out alternate identity for at least
one home game per homestand and they were committed to telling that story.To enhance the
experience during the Locos games, they rebranded one of the concessions stands "Locos Tacos",
added the Locos logo to most of their wayfinding signage, and they are currently in the process of adding
Spanish to a lot of their signage at Jackson Field stadium. 2024 was a banner year for the Lugnuts as far
as room rentals go, though they did not host as many large-scale special events as they have in the past.
The Lugnuts put major emphasis on showcasing and selling the View more, which worked well.
Prior to the season the Lugnuts worked with LEPFA and the City of Lansing to complete the second
phase of PDL facility renovations required by Major League Baseball.This included an additional batting
tunnel, renovations to the Lugnuts home locker room,the expansion of the batter's eye.
There were some minor improvements to Jackson Field stadium for example a large section of the
seating bowl and drainage repairs made to concrete surfaces.Add some humane pest management
solutions since the stadium is open air which attracts many unwanted pests to the property due to
easier accessibility for wildlife.
2024 also saw the organizations continued emphasis on special events and activating the stadium year-
round:
• Grand River Country Club:Two separate weekends of the self-contained nine-hole golf.As well
as the Nutty Golf, which was putt-putt golf on the field.
• Festivals:A Spring and Fall Beerfest at the Ballpark. Olive Burger Festival
• Community: Movie Night at the Ballpark,featured Inside Out 2 and Barbie Movie
• Other:The stadium hosted numerous other events including the Dark Side of the Diamond, 4t"
of July Pink Floyd cover band with a laser show. Game, Special Olympics Polar Plunge,
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GOLF COURSE � �y
The 2024 season at Groesbeck Golf Course was an overall great success with steady traffic and
revenue numbers. A slow start had a large impact on our overall rounds and revenue, mostly
due to weather. Although, the remainder of the season saw improved numbers nearly every
week in rounds played and revenue per round generated. During the 2024 season Groesbeck
Golf Course hosted 30,227 rounds of golf.
Groesbeck hosted 24 separate leagues this season.
In addition to leagues, 13 outings occurred this season with a total of 609 participants.
Both the Lansing Catholic girl's and boy's teams used Groesbeck as their home course this
season.
Improvements to the course/infrastructure include:
• The growing season started very early this season. The course was open for play on
March 1. As of mid-November, the course is still open.
• Groesbeck won 2 separate community choice awards. The first was at the end of 2023
Top of the Town through City Pulse, and the second The Official Community's Choice
Awards of 2024 through Lansing State Journal. Both times we beat Eagle Eye.
• Our customers regularly comment on the improvements of the course conditions, and
we have brought many golfers back to the course that haven't played here in years.
• Planning for renovation of the hydraulic portion of the irrigation system is underway.
Our goal is to have the renovation take place within the next two years.
• We continued to restore bunkers to their original shape. The green side bunkers on 8
were about half their original size prior to restoration.
• At the end of 2023 we extended the landing area on 16 fairway. We grew it in at the
start of this season, and now have established the area as fairway.
• We purchased a Turfco Widespin 1550 topdresser. This was a much-needed piece of
equipment and will allow us to regularly and consistently apply sand to the greens which
will continue to approve the quality of the greens.
• The old Groesbeck road sign fell along Oakland, and we were able to have a new and
very much improved sign installed.
Rounds Played
FY 17 14,702 (not under LEPFA management)
FY 18 21,523
FY 19 23,646
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FY 20 24,957
FY 21 32,791
FY 22 29,792
FY 23 29,770
FY 24 30,227
LEPFA Managed Facilities/Events (by the numbers)
Revenues
Lansing Center Jackson Field Groesbeck Total
FY 22 $6,228,387 $ 555 $860,725 $7,089,667
FY 23 $5,546,386 $ 17,842 $938,997 $6,503,225
FY 24 $6,425,964 $4,181 $964,038 $7,394,183
Expenses
Lansing Center Jackson Field Groesbeck Total
FY 22 $5,747,287 $524,166 $532,644 $6,804,097
FY 23 $7,088,527 $473,455 $1,100,200 $8,774,515
FY 24 $8,257,040 $577,276 $ 893,013 $9,727,637
Economic Impact
Lansing Center Jackson Field Other facilities/events Total
FY 21 $ 3,981,355 $ 1,048,455 $ 825,926 $ 5,855,736
FY 22 $21,522,309 $ 6,322,188 $ 3,044,224 $30,888,721
FY 23 $23,674,540 $ 6,954,407 $ 3,348,646 $33,977,593
FY 24 $22,964,303 $ 6,745,774 $ 3,248,186 $32,958,263
In 2024, revenues at the Lansing Center had a modest increase compared to the prior year,
attributed to increased events and attendance. Furthermore, revenues rose as a result of grants
and alternative financing sources stemming from the pandemic. Expenses rose due to
heightened activity, increasing costs of products, labor, and utilities.
Jackson Field saw the return of the regular MiLB baseball season thus revenue in 2024 however
due to a few rainouts there was a slight reduction in attendance from prior years. Expenses
increased accordingly due to activity at the stadium.
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Overall Economic Impact for LEPFA managed properties and events was just over $30M.
Silver Bells in the City: 401h Anniversary
It was that time of year when Downtown Lansing's city sidewalks turned into busy sidewalks
dressed in holiday style for the 40th annual Silver Bells in the City celebration.
First held in 1984, Silver Bells in the City has transcended modest beginnings to become
a touchstone holiday event which attracted more than 63,000 to Michigan's capital city on
the Friday before Thanksgiving. Presented by the Lansing Board of Water and Light and the
City of Lansing, this year's bash fell on Friday,Nov. 22, running from 5 to 9 p.m.
The signature Electric Light Parade has anchored Silver Bells since 1997. This year's parade
stepped off at 6 p.m. from the corner of Lenawee Street and South Washington Square.
The parade featured more than 70 entries decked out with thousands of lights. Entries
included 11 high school marching bands, horse drawn dignitary carriages, Santa Claus atop
his sleigh and more!
Attendees were able to add to the electric spectacle with commemorative LED wristbands. Event
staff distributed 10,000 wristbands on a first come, first served basis ahead of the parade. The
wristbands synchronized with the night's musical performances and compliments of the Lansing
Board of Water and Light, LAFCU, General Motors, CATA and the Lansing Center. Wristbands
were all gone by 5:40 PM.
Following the parade, the festivities continued with the annual state Christmas tree lighting
ceremony at the capitol building. Dignitaries flipped the switch that set it aglow. This year's
state tree was a gorgeous 60-foot-tall spruce donated by Eagle, Mich. residents Rich and
Dorcas Albertson. More than 10,000 ruby red lights adorned the tree, the most lights in the
history of the state Christmas tree.
As always, the tree lighting was followed by a community sing, headlined this year by Miami-
born singer/songwriter, David Archuleta. Since first stepping into the pop spotlight at age
17, David Archuleta has embodied the kind of genuine star power that can't be manufactured.
After years of dazzling audiences with his radiant personality and phenomenal voice- a journey
that's included turning out multiple platinum-selling hits, achieving global acclaim as a
captivating live performer, and emerging as an undeniable fixture on the pop-culture scene.
David's angelic voice, bashful sweetness and megawatt smile infused Silver Bells in the City
with Joy (to the World)!
After the community sing performance, a pair of skyward spectacles lit up the night further.
First, 200 drones performed a Firefly Drone Light Show synchronized to music. After that,
a stunning firework display over the capitol served as the evening's grand finale.
Best Illuminated Band Award Winners I Electric Light Parade
St. Johns Redwing High School Marching Band, won the Best Illuminated Band Award-Large
Band and Bath High School Marching Band, won the Best Illuminated Band Award-Small Band
during the Silver Bells in the City Electric Light Parade. Each winning band received $500
courtesy of the Lansing Board of Water & Light and a $500 gift card courtesy of Marshall Music
at their holiday concerts.
Silver Bells Village
The footprint of the Silver Bells Village was expanded for this year's event and was the
perfect place to start your holiday shopping, get some refreshments and purchase a
Silver Bells commemorative ornament. The village featured 30 vendors and seven food trailers/
trucks.
Commemorative Ornament
The 40th anniversary commemorative ornaments were proudly handcrafted in Lansing by
artist Tiffany Marie of La Fille Gallery. These ruby-anniversary-inspired ornaments are sold out.
New Component to Silver Bells
Silver Bells partnered with the Mid-Michigan Autism Association to help families who need a
more sensory friendly experience enjoy the event to the fullest. The Silver Bells website featured
tips on how to prepare for the event. In addition, headphones, earplugs, fidget spinners,
sunglasses and sensory maps were available, while supplies lasted, at the Mid-Michigan Autism
Association booth in the Silver Bells Village. The noise cancelling headphones were done within
an hour along with 300 fidgets and almost 200 earplugs.
Silver Bells in the City Broadcasts
For those unable to attend in person, FOX 47 broadcasted the Silver Bells in the City Electric
Light Parade live from 6:00 p.m. — 8:00 p.m. The broadcast also aired locally at the same time on
Comcast Channel 12 courtesy of the Lansing Public Media Center.
Encore presentations on FOX 47 are as follows:
• Thursday, 11/28 (Thanksgiving Day) from 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. following "FOX 47
Morning News."
• Friday, 11/29 from 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., following "FOX 47 Morning News."
• Sunday, 12/22, from 4:30 p.m.- 6:30 p.m. following "Detroit Lions Football on FOX."
• Wednesday, 12/25 (Christmas Day) from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Silver Bells 5K Race Breaks Record
Friday's fun gave way to the 121h annual Silver Bells 5K race, which started at 9 a.m. Saturday,
Nov. 23 with 1,086 participants. Participants could run or walk the marked course in downtown
Lansing. All finishers received medals, a long-sleeve tee and a commemorative bib. There was
also a costume contest and awards for top age group finishers. Top male overall finisher was
Ryan Nowman 16:21 from St. Johns and top female overall finisher was Frances Melina 21:19
from Lansing.
Facility Improvements
JF- Continued improved locker room and player amenities, additional batting tunnel, extension
of the batter's eye, extension of the safety baseball netting.
LC-Readerboards at LC. Concession stand A updated. IT infrastructure.
GGC-New clubhouse furniture, new golf simulator. Update dated golf carts for rental.
LEPFA U and STAFF TRANING
Training sessions for staff were held throughout the year with each session focusing on a
specific training topic. This year, the LEPFA U topic was "LEPFA Sales & YOU" and emphasized
how each team member influences the guest experience. Communications training was
ongoing throughout and included all staff featuring Lisa Ficher and emergency preparedness
protocols.
Grand Concert Series
The Grand Concert Series is postponed until summer of 2025
Margarita Fest
This event is postponed until spring or summer of 2025
2024 Goals/Mission
LEPFA continues to work on its mission to be an economic catalyst for downtown Lansing and
the Lansing region. We are committed to service excellence, providing outstanding
experiences for our guests, providing safe environments for all attending events, and
developing strong relationships with our customers, sponsors, and partners. LEPFA is currently
working on completion of a new strategic plan for the organization.
Groesbeck Golf Course is seeing an increase in participation and food & beverage sales with an
emphasis of attracting more golf outings, leagues, and players to enjoy the only public golf
course in the City of Lansing. Completion of a new Master Plan for the course is expected to be
completed by 2024.
LEPFA and the Lugnuts will continue the efforts of offering affordable fun entertainment as
part of Jackson Field's efforts to be a community asset. The team, City, and LEPFA have worked
to complete a comprehensive plan to update the stadium to MLB standards.
The Lansing Center will be working to continue the efforts of recovery and improvement
through the challenges of the pandemic and economic crisis. The team will be focused on
seeking out all funding that will enable the City to not add additional expenses and operating
contributions to the Authority. The LC needs significant funding to make much needed
improvements to the facility to keep our guests safe and meetings/events up to industry
standards.
An emphasis on working with other companies and organizations towards the development of
new events and entertainment offerings for the coming year will enable LEPFA to work on its
mission as a catalyst to enhance both local and regional economic growth. This would include a
new brand strategy and relaunch strategy for events. LEPFA is beginning a new service culture
training program initiative to further develop improvements to our overall service of guests.
PHOTOS:
Silver Bells in the City
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