Staffing turnover has been a central concern in East Lansing city government in recent years, as departures have drained the city ranks of talent and experience.
These departures are largely responsible for some of the most visible local issues, and the city is still working to find long term fits for several recently vacated positions.
Right now, East Lansing is operating with interim directors leading its library, fire department, clerkâs office and parks and recreation department. Earlier this year, the police department and finance department each chose new leaders. Outside of DEI Director Elaine Hardy and Court Administrator Nicole Evans, no department head has been in their role for more than two years (excluding time spent as interim director).
City Manager Robert Belleman, who took over as the top East Lansing employee in September 2023, said he thinks staffing is starting to stabilize. He pointed out that most of the recent key departures have been older employees retiring, which is different from disgruntled employees leaving for a new job…