Tuesday, February 17, 2015

Update on Council Vacancy and Other Items

I had a wonderful time on my vacation, and my husband was able to get a much needed rest after his illnesses.  Although I treasured every moment in Mexico, I am happy to be back to this city that I love so much and return to work.  It seems as though so much happened in Lansing while I was gone. 

First, Derrick Quinney was appointed to the Register of Deeds for Ingham County position—that has left us needing to fill a vacancy for an at large position.  The Clerk’s Office took applications up until 4:00 p.m. this past Friday, February 13th. Regarding the process to fill the vacancy, here’s what’s next:

  1. A 10 minute interview of all candidates will begin at 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 18. Candidates will have 5 minutes to present an introduction and respond to questions regarding their knowledge of experience of city government and city council.
  2. The finalists will then have a 30 minute interview on Thursday, February 19.  City council will vote on the appointment immediately following the interviews.
  3. City Council will vote on the appointment by resolution on Monday, February 23.  The appointee will be sworn in at that time.The term of this position ends January 1, 2016.  Any individual that would like to stay in this position will need to run for the position this year.
Second, Tina Houghton has been promoted to the position of President of City Council with the vacancy left from Mr. Quinney.  This will require council to elect a new vice president.  President Houghton pulled the item from Monday’s agenda.

Third, we finally had the public hearing on the development agreement and the selling of the Red Cedar Golf Course.  Most of the individuals that gave input were for the passage of the resolution—two were not.  If you have comments for me regarding this issue, please feel free to contact me.

Last, I am sure that you are all aware of the actions surrounding the Board of Water and Light.  The mayor wants council to allow ballot language allowing charter changes regarding the governance of the BWL.  We will discuss this matter at the next 1st Contact being held on March 7th.

Stay tuned, as I will be updating this blog as I get information. 

--Jody