From legislating to educating, decision-making to communicating, the City Council impacts every East Lansing resident in one way or another. Following the Nov. 6 Council elections, three of the city’s next leaders will emerge. Four candidates are vying for three spots on the council. Only two of the five current councilmembers — Kevin Beard and Mayor Pro Tem Vic Loomis — don’t have to run for re-election because their four-year terms won’t expire. In August, Mayor Sam Singh announced that he’s not running for re-election. The new mayor will be appointed at a hearing following the general election.
Meet the council candidates
Diane Goddeeris
Challenger
Age 59
Occupation Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth attorney
City experience Four years on the East Lansing Planning Commission and two terms as East Lansing Public Library Board of Trustees president.
“I’ve lived in East Lansing as a student for four years at MSU. I’ve been a parent, raised our children here, been through the public school system and been a home owner … I have a sense of what the current concerns are of the residents in those certain stages.”
Nathan Triplett
Challenger
Age 23
Occupation Pursuing his master’s degree in public policy at the University of Michigan’s Ford School of Public Policy
City experience Vice chairman of East Lansing Human Relations Commission, member of the Community Development Block Grant Advisory Committee.
“Being a young professional who plans on starting a family in East Lansing, I think it’s valuable to have that perspective on the council.”
Beverly Baten
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Incumbent
Age 70
Occupation Staff member for a national retailer
City experience City councilmember since 1999, member of East Lansing Transportation Commission since 1992.
“On the council, I try to provide a historical perspective. Where were we 20 years ago and where will we be 20 years from now? I think that’s a good perspective for anybody on the council to be looking at. We can’t just look at today and tomorrow, we have to look way into the future.”
Diane Goddeeris
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Incumbent
Age 51
Occupation Nurse at Sparrow Hospital
City experience City councilmember since 2006, former chairperson of East Lansing Planning Commission and former member of East Lansing City Comprehensive Plan Committee.
“The one thing that’s going to ride all decisions is the budget. You see what’s happening at the state level and it trickles down to us. We have to be very careful about planning. ... I want to preserve the residential character of our community.”
