Lansing · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lansing public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
OPRA tax abatement for 2231 W. Willow Street renovation
Two properties — on S. Washington Ave. and W. Mt. Hope Ave. — are getting Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Act certificates, which cut property taxes to encourage rehabbing old buildings. The upside is more likely redevelopment; the trade-off is reduced tax revenue during the abatement period.
Rental property regulation update (Ordinance 1350)
EDP staff updated the committee on the new tag system for rental properties. A landlord said the system hinders good-faith repairs and inspection waits are too long; a committee member asked for a public dashboard showing compliance timelines.
Safe and Secure Housing Initiative Ordinance
Board members discussed the housing ordinance that was on a recent City Council agenda. Questions remain about how it would be funded and how it could affect the HRCS department and the agencies it funds. Council took no immediate action.
Grand Tower parking deck over South Grand Avenue
New Vision Lansing wants to bridge its 28-story tower and parking ramp with a private deck over a public street, using city air rights and right-of-way. Sidewalks narrow slightly and three trees are removed, but the city gets new downtown residents who should support nearby businesses.
Lansing Shuffle building sale ballot question
The city is considering selling the Lansing Shuffle building and the dedicated parkland it sits on at 325 Riverfront Drive, with the question headed to voters. Opponents want an updated appraisal and Park Board input first, warning the $953,000 price undervalues riverfront property and that the city loses control of the site forever. Council delayed action to April 20.
Sale of Lot 49 to Deep Green (ACT-7-2025)
The city would sell Lot 49 and conditionally rezone 220 S. Larch for a $120 million, 24-megawatt data center. Unions back the construction jobs; residents oppose it over noise, water, utility rates, environmental risk, and whether it fits downtown plans. Public hearing is February 9.
New Hope Community Center Relocation to 332 S. Townsend
The council rezoned 332 Townsend and approved a permit so the N.E.S.T. can move its day, family, and veterans shelter downtown, close to mission services. No opposition surfaced at the hearing.
Capitol Walk Apartments Brownfield Plan
A $38.8 million, 124-unit downtown apartment project on the former YMCA parking lot, using the new housing brownfield TIF with up to ~$26.6 million in tax capture over 30 years. The developer commits $100,000 to nearby Reutter Park.
Shelter for homeless families at 500 S. MLK
A church that started sheltering homeless families during freezing weather needs a rezoning and special land use permit to legally keep operating; it houses about 50 people now on a month-to-month temporary permit.