The debate between East Lansing and Meridian Township rages on as East Lansing approved yet another revision to a nearly 100-acre plot-sharing deal.
The fourth proposal was approved by the East Lansing city council last Wednesday, only days after Meridian Township rejected the city’s previous revisions.
If the two municipalities cannot strike an agreement that satisfies both sides, the land will be put up for annexation by East Lansing on the Aug. 6 ballot. One of the issues being debated about the land near the East Lansing Family Aquatic Center 6400 Abbott Road, is the restriction of construction near wetlands. Meridian Township has fought to keep its original 50-foot barrier between any new structures and the green space, while East Lansing tried to slash the barrier space to 20 feet.
It seems odd that a city, which has laid claims and followed through on costly measures for more green space in the downtown area, be so concerned with Meridian’s 30 feet of additional protection. The answer could be found in money.
It seems East Lansing officials are trying to get as much tax revenue for the city as they possibly can by extending the municipality’s borders. But when should the line be drawn? Does every 30 feet matter that much?
This isn’t the only land deal the city is involved in. Similar land-sharing deals are already going on with Meridian, Bath and DeWitt townships. It raises the question of whether the many revisions went to the newest proposal are just a way for the city to stall and bully Meridian leaders toward a more East Lansing friendly deal, with the possibility of annexation looming.
Meridian Township is obviously trying to get as much as it possibly can out of the deal as well, but also while trying to protect the specifics of the first proposal.
In a time where the environment is not taken into much account, it’s important to preserve what we can while we can.
With surrounding townships finding their land quickly snapped up by East Lansing, the only green that the city seems to be a concern is money.
Previous land-sharing deals have already appeared shady in nature, and last-minute revisions do nothing to help that perception.
