East Lansing has a new mayor. The city council unanimously selected fellow member Ruth Beier for the city’s top post.
Ruth Beier has served on the East Lansing city council since 2013. She said one of her top priorities will be to strengthen ties between the city and Michigan State University, which includes creating new research space across Grand River Avenue. Beier also said her constituents want to see less height along the downtown skyline.
“So, in terms of development, I’m going to be looking towards office and housing other than high-rise student housing. That’s one of my goals.”
Beier said she plans to retire in two years and will not seek reelection in 2021. Councilman Aaron Stephens will serve as mayor pro tem, attending meetings and other city functions in Beier’s absence.