EAST LANSING, Mich. — In response to the 3-2 vote to end the city attorney’s contract effective October 1, 2020 and the resignation of two East Lansing City Councilmembers at last night’s East Lansing City Council meeting, the City of East Lansing is providing the following update to the community.
By City Charter, the vacant positions on the East Lansing City Council must be filled within 30 days from the time of the vacancies. City Council must appoint two individuals to serve until the next regularly scheduled City Council election, which will be in November 2021. City Council will be working with City staff to administer an application process for the vacant positions, which will be followed by public interviews and appointments. These interviews may take place electronically due to coronavirus in the community. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available.
With the resignation of East Lansing Mayor Ruth Beier, East Lansing Mayor Pro Tem Aaron Stephens has stepped into the role as mayor of East Lansing. His oath of office was administered today.
City Council will also be working with City staff to issue a Request for Qualifications/Proposals (RFQ/P) for city attorney services. Additional information on the RFQ/P process will be provided as it becomes available.
“In the midst of a very difficult time for our community, state and nation, we need to focus on moving forward and continuing to provide the vital services that our community needs,” said East Lansing City Manager George Lahanas. “We are prepared to work with the City Council to make sure that these important positions are filled as quickly as possible.”
Mayor Stephens plans to issue a separate statement within the week.