Campaign Phone
5174897759
I’m an energy efficiency professional with years of experience helping utilities and government agencies deliver cost-saving programs to residents. I’ve lived in the Lansing area since high school, earned my degree at MSU, and chose to build a life here with my wife. I’m running for City Council because I love Lansing—its grit, its people, and its potential. But I believe the city’s current leadership hasn’t positioned the city to meet its potential. We deserve leadership that’s proactive, responsive, and focused on practical solutions. I’ll bring a fresh, informed perspective and push for progress on housing, affordability, and utility equity so Lansing can be a place where more people can thrive.
Lansing faces serious challenges around affordability and housing availability. Too many residents are struggling to keep up with rising costs—whether that’s rent, utilities, or homeownership. I want to use my experience in energy and policy to make Lansing a more secure and affordable place to live. That means leveraging the Board of Water & Light to adopt income-based rate structures, expand rooftop solar for low-income households, and end shutoffs for nonpayment. It also means removing red tape from zoning and permitting so we can build more housing of all types, from supportive housing to starter homes. Lansing must lead where federal and state support falls short, and that starts with smarter, more responsive city leadership.
I stay engaged in Lansing through volunteering, especially in the arts. I’m a regular volunteer at Sistrum, the Lansing Women’s Chorus, helping at concerts and events that celebrate community and inclusion through music. Each year, I also volunteer at the Women in the Arts Festival, which showcases local talent and uplifts underrepresented voices. These events reflect what I love about Lansing—its creativity, diversity, and sense of togetherness. Outside the arts, I participate in service projects organized through my workplace, including recently sorting and packing produce at the Greater Lansing Food Bank. I believe community leadership starts with showing up, pitching in, and supporting the people and culture that make our city special.
Citizens are the cornerstone of local decision-making. Their lived experiences, concerns, and ideas should shape the policies that affect their daily lives. Too often, decisions are made with limited public input or after minds are already made up. I believe residents must be engaged early and often—through listening sessions, neighborhood outreach, and transparent communication from City Hall. As a Council member, I’ll work to open up more channels for feedback, ensure meetings and materials are accessible, and treat civic engagement as a two-way conversation. Good governance isn’t just about casting votes—it’s about building trust, listening to your neighbors, and making decisions that reflect the will and needs of the community.
Facebook page
Aurelius Christian for Lansing City Council At-Large
Campaign Phone
517-798-5733
I’m a lifelong Lansing resident and graduate of Lansing Eastern High School and Michigan State University. I come from a family rooted in public service, my father a Marine Corps veteran and my mother a dedicated healthcare professional. That upbringing shaped my commitment to service and community.
As a professional economic developer with the Lansing Economic Development Corporation, I focus on supporting small businesses, creating housing opportunities, and driving equitable growth across Lansing’s neighborhoods. I’m a Certified Economic Development Finance Professional and a graduate of the Michigan Political Leadership Program. In recognition of my leadership, I received the Lansing Regional Chamber’s “10 Over the Next 10” award.
I’m running for City Council At-Large because I love Lansing. I am born and raised here and I believe together we can build a city where neighborhoods thrive, business grow, and opportunity and safety go hand in hand.
Neighborhoods, public safety, affordable housing, economic growth, and infrastructure are key issues. Healthy, vibrant neighborhoods are the foundation for a strong city, so we must invest in our communities and support local residents. Lansing’s infrastructure need is growing and funding is limited which requires securing state and federal funding and building regional partnerships to address critical repairs. Public safety and economic prosperity go hand in hand, by ensuring safe communities and supporting local businesses and workforce development, we can create lasting opportunity to move Lansing forward.
I currently serve as the Board Treasurer for the Allen Neighborhood Center, where we focus on neighborhood development, food security, and health equity. I also serve on the Capital Region Community Foundation Impact Grant Committee, helping direct resources to impactful community organizations. Previously, I served as the Board Secretary for Ingham Community Health Centers, where I helped guide policy and oversight. In addition to board governance roles, I regularly attend neighborhood association meetings and community events across the entire city of Lansing.
Citizens must be partners in shaping city policy. Their role is to share their experiences, priorities, and ideas to help guide decisions that affect our neighborhoods.
Education
Portage Norther H S, Mount Hope Bible Institute, Multiple Leadership Certifications
Campaign Phone
5177493540
I have an extensive career in working with and serving the public beginning from my youth.
I bring over 30 plus years of constituent services experience which includes the State of Michigan Legislature and the United States Senate.
I have chosen to run to continue assisting the constituents of the State of Michigan; beginning at the city level.M
My key concerns will be reviewing how the city Lansing's guidelines, ordinances and laws are structured and impacting some people more than others.
My previous personal involvement with the City of Lansing has been limited, but the concerns and issues involving the City have been very much in the forefront of my concerns.
Previous years I worked with the City of Lansing through the Mobile Food Pantry and Election Polling Sites.
I would hope the voices and participation of the citizens should be a big role in the decision making process.
The people make the State of Michigan and the City of Lansing. "They Matter!"
Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/share/1F6QhNL4JM/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Education
JW Sexton high - Lansing community college - Washtenaw community college - EMU
Campaign Phone
(517) 618-1210
I am currently finishing my second term on the Lansing City Council, where I’ve served as President, Vice President, and chaired numerous committees including Development and Planning, Public Safety, DEI, Personnel, and Public Service. I also serve on the Ways and Means and City Operations Committees. My journey to public office began long before my election, with eight years of service on Lansing’s Plumbing Board and over 25 years as a proud member of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 333.
I’m running for re-election because I believe in getting back to basics—investing in the services and infrastructure that truly matter to Lansing residents. That means safer streets, better parks, reliable trash pickup, and stronger public safety. I bring a blue-collar, hands-on approach to governing, one grounded in my own experience as a tradesman and a lifelong Lansing resident who understands the value of hard work and service.
Yes, several pressing issues demand our attention.
• Crumbling Infrastructure: Our roads and sidewalks need investment. I’ve helped secure millions for reconstruction—especially in underserved areas—and will keep pushing for responsible funding.
• Public Safety: I’ve worked closely with police, firefighters, and public service crews through ride-alongs and advocacy. I led funding efforts for speed radar trailers, more officers, community policing, social workers for high-stress calls, and life-saving firefighter equipment.
• City Services: Residents expect timely trash pickup, snow removal, and park maintenance. I’ve fought to improve these basic services and support the workers who provide them.
• Accountability in Development: I'm introducing the Responsible Contractor and Local Bidder Ordinance to ensure public dollars create local jobs, support small businesses, and provide fair wages—instead of padding profits for corporate developers.
We must invest in people and neighborhoods.
My engagement with Lansing runs deep and spans decades:
• Council Leadership Roles: I’ve served as Council President, Vice President, and chaired the Development and Planning, Public Safety, DEI, and Public Service Committees. I also sit on the Ways and Means and City Operations Committees.
• Prior Service: I served 8 years on Lansing’s Plumbing Board before being elected to City Council.
• Volunteer Work: I’ve organized multiple citywide trash cleanups, I volunteer every year at the I love my city event doing multiple beautification across the city of Lansing, I also take care of the flower planters along Cedar Street, including painting the planters every year, weeding them, and replacing the flowers. I have also volunteered at events such as Common Ground and LBWL's Chili Cook-Off. These activities reflect my commitment to building community and keeping Lansing clean, connected, and vibrant.
• Hands-on Approach: I’ve gone on numerous ride-alongs with LFD, LPD and Public Service.
Citizens play a vital role in our local government. Democracy only works when people are informed, engaged, and heard. That’s why I prioritize transparency, accessibility, and responsiveness.
From attending Council meetings and serving on boards and commissions to contacting their elected officials and testifying at public hearings, Lansing residents are the heartbeat of our decision-making process. I regularly meet with constituents, knock on doors, attend neighborhood meetings, and work with residents to solve problems block-by-block.
I firmly believe that government works best when it works for—and with—the people. My job is not just to speak on behalf of Lansing residents, but to make sure their voices are part of every conversation.
Facebook page
Facebook.com/claraforlansing
Education
The Ohio State University & Michigan State University
Campaign Phone
517-410-9119
I’m running for Lansing City Council At-Large because I believe in our people, especially our young people. As a Lansing public school teacher, I see the brilliance, creativity, and potential of our students every day. I also see the challenges our families and neighbors face. I want to help build a city where everyone, no matter their background, has a fair shot at a good life. Whether you are a small business owner, an artist, a retiree, or just starting out, you deserve a community that supports you. As a teacher, union leader, nonprofit board member, and social worker, I have dedicated my career to working with others to create lasting change. I will bring that same collaborative and values-driven leadership to City Hall so that every Lansing resident can see a future here and know they belong. I would be honored to earn your vote in the upcoming city council elections.
Lansing residents are asking for better city services, safer neighborhoods, and more opportunities for their families to succeed. I will prioritize fixing our roads, supporting city workers, and making essential services like snow removal and trash pickup more reliable and accessible. I will invest in affordable housing, public safety, and vibrant parks so every neighborhood feels cared for and secure. Our city must also be a place where families can raise their children with access to quality childcare, after-school programs, and safe spaces to grow. By supporting small businesses and promoting local job creation, we can build a stronger economy that benefits everyone. I believe in working together to deliver results that improve everyday life for all Lansing residents.
I am deeply involved in our community as a Lansing public school teacher and union leader, where I advocate for students, families, and fellow educators every day. I serve as Dance Director at Everett High School, where I mentor young people through the arts. I also serve on the City of Lansing’s Arts & Culture Commission and sit on the Board of All of the Above Hip Hop Academy, a nonprofit dedicated to youth development through music and movement. I’ve collaborated with community partners on educational and cultural initiatives, and I remain engaged in city issues through my service, leadership roles, and conversations with neighbors. My work inside and outside the classroom reflects my commitment to making Lansing a more vibrant, equitable, and supportive city for all.
Citizens should be at the heart of every decision made by local government. That means creating meaningful opportunities for people to participate not just during elections, but throughout the year. Whether it’s joining a neighborhood association, serving on a board or commission, or sharing feedback with city leaders, every voice matters. As a Council Member, I will prioritize transparency, open communication, and proactive outreach so residents feel respected, informed, and empowered to help shape Lansing’s future.
Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572050421457
Education
Master of Public Policy - Michigan State University
Campaign Phone
7343098776
I am the former Executive Director of the Michigan Campaign Finance Network and have worked with the League for many informational events regarding campaign finance and transparency. I am dedicated to taking the conversations I have had door-to-door since January to inform my vision. I am unafraid to fight for residents who feel left behind by power structures that look to uphold the status quo. I am committed to being transparent in my decision-making and not bein beholden to interests or powerful public figures. Our city is home to distinct, unique communities that deserve a government that respects their needs and desires, especially when working with developers and the state. I am dedicated to empowering our communities to have the final say when public dollars are spent in their neighborhoods—and ensuring that those dollars stay here. Our residents deserve tangible benefits when developers are incentivized with our tax dollars, and we must enforce the delivery of these benefits.
I have been speaking with voters across the community who are concerned with the level of engagement of their At-Large representatives and the willingness of our City Council to give back to our neighborhoods that feel left behind. Many voice frustration when engaging with the city, whether it is our city services or the tax office, and we have to make it easier for city employees and residents to work together and encourage residents to move here and want to stay. I share the concern that many homeowners have in the city--with the level of services we receive with the amount of property taxes we pay, will we be forced to leave the city when our family grows? This is a question I don't want anyone to have to ask in the City of Lansing.
Much of my work before wanting to run for council was focused on the state level, but most recently, I voiced my frustration with the City Charter Commission for not wanting to make the City Council more representative and require less money to be raised by increasing the number of wards.
Citizen input is crucial in the decision-making process. Leaders need to be held responsible and explain why they chose to do something different from what their constituents demand. We have seen many listening sessions occur in Lansing, and there is no explanation as to why the City Council goes in a completely different direction.
Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/share/1EHkx3Ug5W/
Education
Masters of Science in Human Biology; B.S. in Human Biology, B.S. in Anthropology
Campaign Phone
(517) 798-6407
I am a scientist, and I look at problems like one. I'm not a politician, but I think my perspective of solution testing can benefit the City of Lansing.
I am running because I want to help fix problems Lansing faces and bring our community together in uncertain times.
The reason why I am running is that I can see the problems Lansing faces with affordable housing, amenities, and business growth.
One thing I see are blighted buildings with irresponsible landlords. I pass by an apartment building on the corner of Washington and hazel that has been red tagged (unlivable) since 2018. The owners have only been charged 150 dollars a month for the 80 unit apartment building. That is unacceptable and I would work with state lawmakers to change the Michigan law limiting this fee.
We need to attract the right businesses through grants. A small grocery store in an underserved area can cut down on food insecurity and make sure people don't live in food deserts. We also need a true downtown development authority that seeks to transform Lansing into a Michigan destination. We need nightlife downtown so that people don't leave Grewal Hall or the new Ovation and say "where do we go now?"
We also need more water stations and trash cans on the River trail.
I have been attending or watching the city council meetings since 2024, and I have been reading extensively about Lansings ordinances and laws.
I volunteer regularly with a local non-profit at events, and I value getting to speak with Lansing people about good causes.
Citizens should be involved in decision making. I'm a big proponent of listening to people. That's why I have asked everyone I talk to what they would like to see addressed in Lansing. I would like to see more public comments in city council meetings, even virtual comments. We need to hear from constituents.
Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571831066686
Education
Masters of Public Policy
Campaign Phone
3139490609
I'm running for Lansing City Council At-Large because the people who've built this city deserve to be at the center of its future. I grew up in a working-class family in Northern Michigan, shaped by poverty, housing insecurity, and the ripple effects of addiction and incarceration. Those experiences drive my people-first, equity-rooted approach to leadership.
I'm a first-generation college graduate with degrees from MSU and the University of Michigan in Public Policy. My work spans philanthropy, economic development, and state-level policy.
I serve as Board President of the Southwest Action Group and live on Lansing's south side with my partner, three cats, and our dog, Reba.
Lansing is growing, but we must ask: growth for whom? I'm running to ensure that progress benefits everyone with housing justice, transparent governance, and responsive city services. I'd be honored to earn your vote for a more just, inclusive Lansing.
Lansing is at a crossroads, particularly in terms of housing, development, and how we define progress. Too often, decisions favor outside developers over longtime residents, leading to unchecked growth and tax breaks without accountability. We must ask: Who benefits? Are we protecting residents from displacement? I support community-centered development with transparency, community benefits agreements, and anti-displacement protections.
Housing justice is also critical. Residents deserve safe, affordable housing. I’ll fight to protect tenants and expand homeownership.
We also need modern, inclusive community engagement, not outdated processes that leave people out. That means getting creative and utilizing digital tools, providing childcare at meetings, and engaging in culturally responsive outreach.
I’m running to bring transparency, equity, and accountability to City Hall: putting neighborhoods, not just new developments, at the center of Lansing’s future.
While I don’t currently hold a formal city-appointed position, I stay deeply engaged in Lansing’s civic life. I regularly attend City Council meetings virtually to stay informed about local policy, development, and budget decisions because understanding how our city functions is key to holding our leaders accountable. Outside City Hall, I’m active in grassroots efforts, serving as Board President of the Southwest Action Group, where I help lead community-driven revitalization in Southwest Lansing. I also support the work of A Place for Us, the Capital Area Literacy Coalition, and Strong Towns Lansing, all groups that are doing critical work in literacy, housing, and sustainable development. I may not have a title, but I show up, listen, and contribute every day. Public service starts with community, and I’m committed to building a stronger Lansing from the ground up.
Citizens should be at the center of the decision-making process. A healthy democracy requires more than just voting. It needs active public involvement in shaping policy, setting priorities, and holding leaders accountable. Too often, community input is limited to a comment period or occasional survey. That’s not genuine engagement. Residents deserve meaningful roles in shaping the agenda, influencing development, and ensuring public resources are dispersed equitably. We must meet people where they are and not rely on outdated systems that exclude too many voices.
City government works best when it works with the people, not around them. That means transparency, accountability, and a year-round culture of listening, not just during campaign season.
Without the people, there is no Lansing.
Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/julievandenboomlansing
Education
BM and MM, music performance, Michigan State. BBA, marketing and management, Northwood University
Campaign Phone
5174848753
I've lived in Lansing for 25 years and raised my son here. I’ve built a career in public service with experience managing complex projects and teams. I’ve worked alongside nonprofits, small businesses, and local government to get things done—and I believe city council should be where community voice meets action.
I’m running because I love this city, and I know we can build a future where Lansing works better for everyone. I’m rooted here, and I want to make sure our neighborhoods are safe, connected, and thriving—not just now, but for the long term.
Lansing needs more affordable, quality housing—at every level. We must make it easier to build homes people can afford, while also protecting renters with a tenants bill of rights and supporting paths to home ownership.
We also need to care for our unhoused neighbors with empathy and respect by addressing root causes of homelessness. This could include the creation of a "compassionate campus" model.
And we need to preserve the homes we already have. That means helping people keep aging housing stock safe and livable—without penalties that push out longtime residents. Everyone in Lansing deserves a place to call home.
I’ve been deeply engaged in Lansing for some time. I currently serve on the boards of the Capital Area District Library, the Eastside Neighborhood Organization, Friends of Bancroft Park, and A Place For Us (a non-profit startup focusing on our unhoused LGBTQ+ neighbors).
I’m active with Strong Towns Lansing, Lansing Rent is Too Damn High Tenants Union, the NAACP, and SORA Gardens. I participate in neighborhood cleanups all over the city and regularly attend council meetings and first ward constituent contact sessions. I’ve consistently shown up for Lansing—and I’m ready to keep doing the work.
Citizens are the heart of local government. Our voices guide decisions that shape our neighborhoods, schools, and services. It’s essential that Lansing fosters meaningful engagement—through accessible meetings, transparent communication, and real opportunities to influence policy.
When residents feel heard and empowered, city government works better. I’m committed to ensuring Lansing listens to all its people, especially those too often overlooked.
Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/share/161iCt18YB/
Education
Bachelor's Degree from MSU with Majors in Environmental Geography and Economic Geography
Campaign Phone
8107284700
I currently serve as an At-Large member of the Lansing Park Board, as Vice-Chair and First Ward Representative on the Lansing Neighborhood Advisory Board, and as Vice-Chair of the Ingham County Equal Opportunity Committee. I have worked to bridge the gap with each of these departments and the citizens that they serve and I am running for Lansing City Council At-Large to better assist Lansing residents on all citywide issues that they face.
There are current issues that the Lansing City Council will need to address in the coming term. These include continued funding for road and sidewalk infrastructure through both general funds and working with the state legislature to update the road funding formula to better serve our local roads. Funding and supporting our first responders to ensure they are fully staffed, trained, and equipped to best serve Lansing. Supporting our neighborhoods through funding additional grant and resource programs for our communities. Supporting housing developments, permitting and inspection efficiency, and code enforcement that will assist in providing affordable and accessible housing for all residents. Supporting our small businesses with technical assistance programs. Bridging the gap with the Lansing School District through increased park and neighborhood programming for our students.
I currently serve as an At-Large member of the Lansing Park Board where I have led efforts to create a grant match program for park equipment, participated in outreach efforts on new playground equipment, and worked with citizens and the Parks Department to resolve constituent problems. I serve as Vice-Chair and First Ward Representative of the Lansing Neighborhood Advisory Board where I have assisted neighborhoods through the NAB Grant Program process and assisted neighborhoods in utilizing city resources. I serve as the Vice-Chair of the Ingham County Equal Opportunity Committee where I have reviewed employment reports and assisted the boards efforts to broaden the contractor pool to make it more representative of Ingham County. I am also a current Ingham County Democratic Precinct Delegate and was the 2024 Ingham County Democratic Party Elections Committee Chairperson. Through these roles, I have attended almost every council and neighborhood meeting over the past several years.
Citizens play an integral role in the decision-making process for Lansing City Council. Ensuring that their voices are heard and that their interests are considered in all decisions should be a top priority for all elected officials. Listening to the needs, experiences, and expertise of the citizens that make up Lansing is an important aspect to serving in this role and guaranteeing that our city moves in the right direction.
