East Lansing council asks city attorney to review boards-and-commissions application language and transparency practices

Council discussion on Oct. 7 focused on whether the city’s boards-and-commissions application should ask applicants to disclose interpersonal relationships (for example, spouses or partners) and on whether to require or list suggested trainings for commissioners.

The motion followed questions about a recent appointment to the East Lansing Independent Police Oversight Commission involving a councilmember’s spouse. Mayor Brookover said legal advice was needed to clarify what the council can lawfully ask on volunteer applications. Councilmember Watson and others recommended that, in addition to legal review, staff compile suggested trainings (for example, Robert’s Rules, restorative-justice training, ride-alongs where appropriate) and consider qualifying guidance for certain selection panels.

Councilmember Altman noted his spouse disclosed their relationship during the interview and recused himself in that appointment. He cautioned against collecting marital status on volunteer applications on the ground that personal data can be discriminatory. Other councilmembers pointed to past examples where spouses or partners served concurrently on commissions without statutory conflict, but said disclosure and recusal policies deserve clarity. Mayor Pro Tem Singh offered a friendly amendment to include a review of trainings and related recommendations across commissions.

The council voted to refer the matter to the city attorney for an opinion on legal restraints and to have staff prepare recommendations on trainings and qualifications. Roll call was recorded as 4–1 in favor, with Councilmember Watson opposing.