Peers have confidence in Hollister
Local leaders say he can forge regional cooperation

There are several regional leaders who say David Hollister can be successful in his effort to ease the tensions between the city of Lansing and Lansing Township ... if leaders from the two municipalities permit him.

They point to the fact that Hollister was a veteran politician when he retired from public office, has strong ties throughout mid-Michigan's business community and understands the practical aspects of municipal government.

"He's been around long enough in order to get it done," Delta Township Supervisor Joe Drolett said. "David is not the problem on this. David is doing the best to bring the two sides together."

City and township leaders have clashed over some key issues lately, including consolidated fire services - a proposal the township rejected - and the township's pursuit of a $100 million hotel complex at the popular Eastwood Towne Center, which the city says threatens the downtown Lansing Center.

Hollister has been scheduling meetings with Lansing and Lansing Township to discuss these regional issues and help both sides find common ground.

Drolett and Hollister united for the tax-sharing agreement that made it possible for a new General Motors Corp. plant to open in Delta Township two years ago.

East Lansing Mayor Victor Loomis said he has known Hollister for about 25 years.

"He is a key player because of his personal and professional experiences," Loomis said.

And he has the respect of leaders in Lansing - he served on Mayor Virg Bernero's transition committee in 2005 - and in Lansing Township.

"He has everybody's respect," Lansing Township Supervisor John Daher said. "Dave has at least 40 years of experience in local government.

"He's got experience at the county level, at the city level, at the state level. I just think that he's a very wise man.

"He has a true vested interest in the region. Everybody realizes that."

- Susan Vela