HomeMy WebLinkAboutLansing Economic Development Corporation Minutes 2.07.25The Lansing EDC’s Mission is to improve the Lansing community by fostering
economic growth that is strategic, sustainable and equitable.
Board of Directors Meeting
Friday, February 07, 2025 – 8:30 AM
Lansing EDC Office - 401 S. Washington Sq. Suite 101, Lansing, MI 48933
MINUTES
Members Present: Chair - Shelley Davis Boyd, Vice-Chair - Calvin Jones,
Secretary - Dr. Alane Laws-Barker, Chaz Carrillo, Jonathan
Smith, Rawley Van Fossen
Members Absent: Treasurer - Catherine Rathbun, Jordan Sutton
Staff Present: Karl Dorshimer, Kris Klein, Brandy Standler, Aurelius
Christian, Alex Watkins, Chelsea Dowler, Kahleea
Washington, Shay Manawar, and Kimberly Lavon
Guests: None
Call to Order/Roll Call
Chair Davis Boyd called the Lansing Economic Development Corporation meeting to order at
9:10 A.M.
Approval of LEDC Board Meeting Minutes – Friday, January 10, 2025 (ACTION)
MOTION: Member Smith moved to approve the LEDC meeting minutes from Friday, January
10, 2025, Board of Directors meeting, as presented. Motion seconded by member Jones.
YEAS: Unanimous, motion carried.
Financial Update
Standler discussed that activity is on track concerning the budget, with the exception of
outside contractor services. A budget amendment may need to come before the board to
increase the budgeted contractor expenses.
Budget Amendment for Grant
Washington discussed the grant that was approved through the Thriving Communities
Program, which is a USDOT project. However, a suspension in Federal funding has delayed
LEDC Board of Directors Meeting: Friday, February 07, 2025 Meeting Minutes Page 2 of 3
the project.
Corridor Updates
Washington discussed the South MLK Jr. CIA projects that are now suspended due to the halt
in federal funding. The Saginaw Street CIA has completed the RFP process for their website.
Façade Improvement Program
Washington discussed that applications are now open.
LEED Initiative Update
Christian noted the Emerging Developers program kicked off on January 29th. The Empower
Grant application are under review. The second cohort of the Empower Program held its
graduation, which was well attended.
Project Updates
Dorshimer updated the board on the New Vision Lansing project. Additional approvals have
been secured, however future agreements will come before the board to move the project
along. The total revenue to the LBRA over 30 years is just over $24 million. Discussion took
place regarding the future of Downtown Lansing and economic growth. Member Smith
discussed a market study. Member Jones brought up a scholarship program that could be
funded by construction. Dorshimer updated the board regarding the Neogen project. The
Michigan Strategic Fund approved the Neogen Expansion plan on January 28th.
Manawar discussed the status of the SSRP Grant. A disbursement request is under MEDC
review. Predevelopment and survey work is underway.
Dowler addressed the group concerning the MSU Student Practicum and the RAP 3.0 Grant
Request. Adado, Dietrich, and the pedway surveys are being conducted by the practicum
students. $500,000 is the request for Façade improvements under the RAP 3.0 Grant.
Jones mentioned that the MSU president is looking at forming an Economic Development
Board and if there is potential for LEDC involvement.
Committee Reports
Site Committee: Manwar discussed the committee will meet today to focus on two
properties, including NW corner of Cap City Blvd and Grand River, and 6420 South Cedar.
Open Forum for LEDC Board Members
Chair Davis Boyd met with Jodi Wehling of People Matters concerning consulting and HR
support. Leadership planning and an assessment are recommended to be completed within
the current fiscal year.
LEDC Board of Directors Meeting: Friday, February 07, 2025 Meeting Minutes Page 3 of 3
MOTION: Jones moved that the People Matters proposal be adopted. Van Fossen
recommended the 12 hour option. Van Fossen supported the motion.
YEAS: Unanimous. Motion passed.
Other Business
Jones mentioned that he’d like to see board meetings be done at project locations.
Van Fossen recognized Aurelius Christian for participation on the Allen Neighborhood
Center board.
Public Comment
None.
Adjournment
Chair Davis Boyd called the Lansing Economic Development Corporation meeting to
adjournment at 10:08 A.M.
________________________________________________________
Karl Dorshimer, President & CEO
Lansing Economic Development Corporation (LEDC)