Committee on Ways and Means · August 20, 2026
Thursday’s meeting is short on contracts but long on structural change. Two new ordinances, a new auditing office, and a budget conversation that sets the table for the next two years.
🔦 The 3 items worth your attention
Lansing is moving toward creating an Office of the Independent Internal Auditor, a standalone office written into city code to oversee finances and operations independently of the departments it’s watching. This is the introduction and public-hearing-setting stage, so no final decision happens Thursday. Still, it’s the kind of structural shift that rarely gets a second look once it’s in place. (5-D)
An ordinance amendment to Chapter 230 would lock in a dedicated funding stream for Supportive Housing Services, meaning the commitment wouldn’t have to be re-argued every budget cycle. The hearing gets set Thursday. How the allocation is sized will matter far more than the ordinance itself, and that detail isn’t in the agenda yet. (5-E)
Then there’s the FY 2027/2028 budget priorities discussion. No votes, just direction. Whatever staff hears in this room shapes what lands on paper later, which is exactly why it’s worth knowing the conversation is happening. (5-F)
🏗️ Roads & property
No infrastructure, zoning, or property items on this agenda.
💰 Where the money’s going
- State grant (amount not yet disclosed) for improvements to the Reutter Park Fountain. (5-C)
- Federal Certified Local Government grant (amount not yet disclosed) for a historic plat survey of the Westside Neighborhood Espinore Plat, which could affect future preservation designations in that area. (5-B)
📌 Also notable
- Minutes from July 16 are up for confirmation. (3-A)
Public comment is typically taken at the start of the meeting. Check the city’s official agenda portal or call the City Clerk’s office to confirm Thursday’s format and timing.
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