Lansing City Council approves dock grant application, hears of retaining wall concern, and designates fall leaf pick-up process

by Joshua Sharpe

Monday, September 2, the Lansing City Council convened to address several routine approvals, alongside a detailed citizen concern regarding a collapsing retaining wall. The agenda included the authorization to pursue state funding for public dock improvements and the adoption of a fall leaf pick-up schedule. Additionally, the council engaged in deliberation over a potential riverfront recognition site. Topics discussed also encompassed economic development outreach, state coordination on logistics, and time-sensitive waterfront procurement.

Among the consent agenda items addressed at the meeting was approval of the liquor license application for the Lansing Fire Department ATV Ride scheduled for later this month, a popular event noted as typically attracting several hundred participants and generating significant local economic activity. The council also gave its approval to the closure of a portion of Center Street in front of the Fire Station Saturday, September 20 for that ATV ride.

RETAINING WALL CONCERNS
Citizen comments during the meeting highlighted concerns regarding a structural and liability issue in Black Hawk Alley and an adjacent retaining wall. Property owner John Drew introduced himself and the parcel in question at 201 North Front Street. He expressed his concerns about the deteriorating condition of Black Hawk Alley that runs behind his property, saying, “The alley is knocking down the retaining wall, and I believe we need to do something about it.”

When the discussion shifted to ownership boundaries, Drew clarified, “It is on my property. I’ve had the property surveyed.” He attributed the acceleration of the damage to the heavy truck and equipment traffic related to bridge construction, noting, “And it’s really accelerated since the bridge construction started. We’ve got heavy equipment and semis and everything running up and down that alley.”

He emphasized the implications for public safety, explaining, “Trucks come down off 2nd Street, down the hill, and turn into that alley, and that puts a huge pressure on that wall. I think it’s time to do something about it.” Regarding liability, he stated, “I’m not sure it’s my retaining wall, but I believe that the city has got liability in it… However, I don’t think I’m liable for holding up a city alley.”

In response, Mayor Mike Verdon acknowledged the gravity of the situation and pledged to investigate the matter further, saying, “I will check that with the DOT (Department of Transportation) and with Kraemer Construction.” The council agreed to revisit the issue at its September 15 meeting, directing staff to compile surveys, Beacon imagery, and input from the Department of Transportation to enhance understanding of ownership, access, and emergency response considerations with greater clarity.

To read the full article, pick up the Wednesday, September 10, 2025 print edition of The Standard or subscribe to our e-edition or print edition by clicking here.