East Lansing Delays Major Downtown Development Vote, Other Mid-Michigan Updates

A proposed 13-story development in downtown East Lansing remains in limbo after the city council postponed a decision during Tuesday night’s meeting.

Mayor Eric Altmann said the delay could have unintended consequences. Speaking on 1320 WILS, Altmann noted that if the proposal is ultimately rejected, the developer could still move forward with an eight-story building that would require less parking and no council approval.

Altmann suggested that outcome could frustrate both business owners—who are advocating for more parking—and nearby residents, who oppose the building’s height.

The council is expected to revisit the proposal at its next meeting on April 7.

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Camping Ordinances Rejected

In the same meeting, the council voted 4-1 to reject two proposed “camping ban” ordinances aimed at addressing homelessness from a public safety standpoint. Altmann cast the lone vote in favor.

He argued the measures were intended to prevent interference with public events rather than criminalize homelessness. However, public opposition ultimately swayed the council.

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Mason Repeals Data Center Ordinance

In nearby Mason, city leaders voted to repeal a data center ordinance following strong pushback from residents.

Mayor Russell Whipple said much of the opposition came from people living outside city limits and was fueled by misinformation about data centers.

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Okemos Schools Name New Superintendent

Okemos Public Schools has selected Matt Olson as its next superintendent. Olson currently serves as assistant superintendent at Northwest Education Services in Traverse City.

He will replace retiring superintendent John Hood and is set to begin July 1.

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Lansing State of the City and Event Cancellation

Lansing Mayor Andy Schor is scheduled to deliver his annual State of the City address Wednesday evening at Lansing Community College.

Meanwhile, the city has canceled its annual Cesar Chavez dinner, originally planned for next week. The decision follows a statement from the Cesar Chavez Foundation regarding allegations of inappropriate behavior involving Cesar Chavez.

City officials say they will contact ticket holders and sponsors regarding the cancellation.

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Severe Winter Weather Prompts Emergency Declarations

Northern Michigan is digging out from a major snowstorm that brought extreme totals, including 52 inches in Round Lake in the Upper Peninsula and nearly four feet at Cusino Lake.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has declared a state of emergency for seven affected counties. She also issued a statewide energy emergency to help ensure timely delivery of heating fuel.

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Vice President Vance Visits Michigan

Vice President J.D. Vance is in Michigan Wednesday, scheduled to speak at a manufacturing plant in Auburn Hills.

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MSU Hosts Landscape Olympics

Michigan State University is hosting its 50th annual Landscape Olympics this week, drawing more than 1,000 students, faculty, and industry professionals.

The event features competitions such as tree climbing and equipment operation challenges, and runs through Saturday.