I am thankful for the staff members who continue to do the daily work of serving East Lansing, and I appreciate Councilmember Singh's being part of this important conversation.
The work continues, and so does the responsibility to lead with care, clarity, and purpose.
Yesterday I spoke w/ City staff during the Leading Managers meeting, joined by Councilmember Singh.
It was a productive & meaningful conversation about leadership, communication, decision-making & the role Council plays as the legislative body for the @CityofEL.
In moments of uncertainty, communication becomes even more important. We may not always be able to answer every question immediately, but we can continue to show up, listen carefully, respect proper processes, and work to make informed decisions in the best interests of the city.
As Mayor Pro Tem, I believe it's important to acknowledge those who keep our city operating. It takes skilled workers, planning, equipment, & a commitment to public service — both during major weather events and every day. Thank you to the Public Works staff for the work you do!
I had the opportunity to spend time with the @CityofEL Dept of Public Works & Environmental Services to get a closer look at the work they do for our community.
The severe weather we just experienced is another reminder of why this department matters.
Public Works touches so much of daily life in East Lansing: roads, storm response, water and sewer systems, trash and recycling, sidewalks, parks, trails, city facilities, and the basic services people depend on every day. A lot of this work happens behind the scenes.
Events like this strengthen local businesses & remind us that investing in the arts is investing in our community. EL is at its best when we come together for outstanding cultural events like this one. Proud to support this milestone year, & I hope to see you there June 26–27. 🎷
Monday night's fundraiser for the @CityofEL Summer Solstice Jazz Festival reminded me why this event has endured for 30 yrs: It's a celebration of the enduring power of music to connect us across races, places and generations.
For three decades, it has created space for families, students, residents and visitors to gather in the heart of downtown. This cultural touchstone brings generations together, showcases local talent and creates the kind of shared experiences that define our community.
Public safety, accountability, racial justice, transparency, and trust in local government are values I have long championed in East Lansing, and they guide every decision I make.
Congress launched the commission in 2022 to explore the creation of a nat'l museum in D.C. These regional convenings raise funds & shape what the it will look like, & I'm proud that EL has a hand in creating a space where AANHPI history will be preserved for future generations.
Here in the the @CityofEL, we understand the value of creating spaces where people feel seen. It was an honor to welcome the Commission to Study the Potential Creation of a Nat'l @apamuseum to EL this morning as part of their listening tour.
As I shared with our guests — with @michiganstateu at the center of our city, our community is stronger because of the many perspectives, histories and lived experiences of our AANHPI residents.
It also reminded me of something simple but important: getting involved in your community matters. You never know where it can lead or who you might impact. What starts as giving your time can grow into something much bigger, & in many ways, you receive just as much as you give.
As "March is Reading Month" comes to a close, I had the opportunity to read to a 3rd-grade class at Glencairn Elementary, and it turned into a full-circle moment for me.
That experience stayed with me. It helped shape my path and eventually led to the creation of Primetime Mentoring and Educational Services.
Coming back years later in a different role, but with the same purpose, meant a lot.
If we are serious about economic growth, workforce development & safe communities, then we have to continue supporting policies that strengthen unions & protect the people who build & maintain our infrastructure every day.
Grateful to be in the room & part of the conversation.
Attended the @MIBldgTrades's Legislative Conf & Reception, & it was a strong reminder of how critical organized labor is to the foundation of our communities.
What stood out: the trades understand the connection b/w policy & real outcomes. Infrastructure investment isn't just about roads & bldgs. It's creating stable careers, protecting workers on the job & ensuring that public dollars support high standards & workforce development.