The exemption allows senior citizen housing to be created in East Lansing.

Under the previous iteration of the ordinance, developers were unable to restrict occupancy to any citizen of East Lansing, which made the creation of "55-plus only" housing illegal.

The ordinance was passed unanimously by the city council with many members voicing their support.

"This issue has been before me since I became a councilwoman...this will not only serve our seniors, but all citizens of East Lansing who will enjoy having seniors in their lives," council member Kathleen Boyle said.

East Lansing's seniors also voiced their support for the change.

"The 55-plus-year-olds are real assets to the culture of universities," said East Lansing resident Raymond D. Vlasin. 

He believes that seniors near campuses will be beneficial to university life. "(Seniors) participate in surveys, panels, and donate to the university."

Chief construction officer for DTN, Allen Russell responded to the talk of senior development positively, saying, " As we've gone through the process of the park district, the idea of senior housing comes up regularly, but it is always a tough sell for developers because of the discrimination law. If this (ordinance) is passed, I do not promise senior housing, but it will open the possibility."

Boyle said there has been a migration of seniors to college towns in recent years and that many senior citizens have chosen to return to their alma mater instead of a typical retirement destination. This has led to some universities accommodating for seniors with designated living.

The Wall Street Journal reported that some colleges have even created classes for retirees to take on campus.

People over 55 are the only exception to the discrimination ordinance passed by city council.