News & Announcements

Jack O' Lanterns Unleashed

Jack O' Lanterns Unleashed

Join us at the Ingham County Fairgrounds weekends in October, beginning October 4. for Jack O' Lanterns Unleashed.

Jack O' Lanterns Unleashed is an immersive Halloween experience for all ages. As you stroll down Jack O' Lantern Lane, you'll be amazed by the vast expanse of intricately hand carved and illuminated jack o' lanterns. There are over 30 scenes and themes that you have to see to believe!

 

Boo at the Zoo

Boo at the Zoo

Get Ready for a Ghoulishly Good Time This October!

Join us for Boo at the Zoo, October 12-13, 19-20, 26-27, from noon – 5 p.m. at Potter Park Zoo.  

This year, we’re brewing up more Halloween magic than ever before!

Gather your little goblins, don your most enchanting costumes, and step into a world where the animal kingdom meets the spooky season. 

Potter Park Zoo transforms into a captivating realm filled with vibrant fall colors, family fun, and the animals! 

Ingham County Free Day at the Zoo

Ingham County Free Day at the Zoo

Calling all Ingham County & Lansing City Residents! 

Join us for a day of FREE adventure at Potter Park Zoo Oct. 5, 2024! 

Zoo Hours: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 

Please note that parking fees still apply. 

To claim your FREE admission, bring your ID to verify Ingham County residency when purchasing tickets at the gate. (No discounting or refunds can be given for online ticket purchases used on this day). It’s a day of wild fun you won’t want to miss!

River Cleanup at Potter Park Zoo

River Cleanup at Potter Park Zoo

Join us for an exciting and impactful event at Potter Park Zoo, September 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.! We’re calling all nature enthusiasts, conservationists, and animal lovers to participate in a river cleanup along the Lansing River Trail in front of the park. This is your opportunity to make a difference in our community and protect the beautiful wildlife that calls our rivers home.
Zoo Nights at Potter Park Zoo

Zoo Nights at Potter Park Zoo

Join us September 12, 2024 from 5-8 pm for Zoo Nights at Potter Park Zoo. Zoo Nights is where casual meets captivating! This adult-exclusive extravaganza boasts delectable delights from nearby eateries and drinks from local breweries and wineries. Explore the zoo after hours, mingling with curious creatures and creating unforgettable moments.
American Rescue Plan Act - Ingham County Recovery Plan Reports

American Rescue Plan Act - Ingham County Recovery Plan Reports

The American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act includes $56.8 million in direct local recovery assistance for Ingham County. The first half (First Tranche) was received in May, 2021 and the second half (Second Tranche) will be received in May, 2022.
Ingham County To Receive State Funding in 2025 FY Budget

Ingham County To Receive State Funding in 2025 FY Budget

Michigan’s 2025 Fiscal Year Budget was approved in the early hours of June 27th, and the benefits to Ingham County are substantial. A number of critical County projects received funding including $12,500,000 toward a new Youth Center to replace the existing center built in 1986, $10,000,000 toward the renovation of the historic 1930 Feline Primate Building at the Potter Park Zoo, $15,000,000 to the Ingham County Housing Trust Fund for affordable housing initiatives, and $1,500,000 for paving of the Kinneville Road/Kirby Road corridor.
2024 – 2028 Ingham County Strategic Plan

2024 – 2028 Ingham County Strategic Plan

The Ingham County Board of Commissioners has developed and adopted a strategic plan that presents the goals and aspirations of County government and all its affiliated departments and agencies. The Board, working with elected officials, department heads and budgetary units, completed a comprehensive year-long project with the assistance of Mejorando Group, a professional strategic planning firm. 
Help Name Potter Park Zoo's Otter Pups!

Help Name Potter Park Zoo's Otter Pups!

Potter Park Zoo is inviting the community to participate in naming our adorable otter pups! This exciting opportunity allows you to make a splash by supporting the zoo's conservation efforts while casting your vote for their names.
Ingham County Seeking Volunteers for the Materials Management Planning Committee

Ingham County Seeking Volunteers for the Materials Management Planning Committee

The Ingham County Board of Commissioners is looking for volunteers for 11-12 positions on the Materials Management Planning Committee (MMPC).The Ingham County Board of Commissioners is required by State Law to establish and appoint a Materials Management Planning Committee (MMPC) in order to prepare a Materials Management Plan (MMP) for Ingham County. MMPC members will assist Ingham County’s Designated Planning Agency (DPA) in designing a plan that both adheres to applicable State law and best suits the needs and goals of the County. 

Ingham County Broadband Challenge Process

Ingham County Broadband Challenge Process

Mason - The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program, a component of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, provides $42.45 billion to expand high-speed internet access to unserved and underserved locations across the country. Funding was allocated on a state-by-state basis, with Michigan receiving $1.559 billion. 

Arbor Day Celebration

Arbor Day Celebration

Arbor Day Celebration April 26 Calling all tree enthusiasts! Join Potter Park Zoo in celebrating National Arbor Day on Friday, April 26, for a day filled with excitement and education.
Night at a Living Museum

Night at a Living Museum

Unlock a world of wonder and discovery at our Living Museum! Join us on Friday, April 5th from 5:00 to 8:00 pm for an evening of interactive experiences that will immerse you in the world of conservation and the natural world.
Potter Park Zoo’s 31st Annual Wonderland of Lights

Potter Park Zoo’s 31st Annual Wonderland of Lights

Experience the enchantment of the holiday season at Potter Park Zoo’s 31st annual Wonderland of Lights! Step into a winter wonderland as thousands of glistening lights adorn the park, turning it into a magical holiday paradise. Take a leisurely stroll through the zoo’s festively illuminated pathways, where you’ll be surrounded by the warm, inviting glow of twinkling lights.
Toys for Tots at Wonderland of Lights

Toys for Tots at Wonderland of Lights

It’s time to spread holiday cheer and make a child’s season extra special! We’re hosting our annual Toys for Tots toy drive, and you’re invited to join!
Ingham County Opioid Community Needs Assessment 2023 Community Member Survey

Ingham County Opioid Community Needs Assessment 2023 Community Member Survey

This survey is being conducted by Ingham County in collaboration with Ingham County Health Department and the Michigan State University team at the Technical Assistance Collaborative to collect information from the community regarding Opioid Use Disorder and other co-occurring Substance Use Disorders/Mental Health disorders. This definition will be referred to as Substance Use Disorder (SUD) throughout the survey for short.
Grandparents Day at the Zoo

Grandparents Day at the Zoo

Grandparent’s Day at the Zoo – All Grandparents Get FREE Admission at the Gate
Zoo Days at Potter Park

Zoo Days at Potter Park

Potter Park Zoo invites you to an extraordinary experience during Zoo Days, an event that promises thrills, laughter, and unforgettable moments for the whole family! This highly anticipated event will take place on July 11 and 12, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Zoo Nights

Zoo Nights

Potter Park Zoo is excited to invite our 21+ guests to the first Zoo Nights event of the season on May 11, 2023 and June 15, 2023 from 5 pm to 8 pm at the Potter Park Zoo, 1301 S. Pennsylvania, Lansing.

 Zoo Nights is a casual, happy hour-style event that will feature tastes from local restaurants and beverage companies.

Party for the Planet - Potter Park Zoo

Party for the Planet - Potter Park Zoo

Celebrate Earth Day at the zoo!

Party for the Planet is North America’s largest Earth Day celebration, with more than 120 zoos and aquariums across the country participating.

Explore conservation issues with hands-on activities, information, and demonstrations around the zoo.
Simar Pawar Appointed to District 13 Commissioner Vacancy

Simar Pawar Appointed to District 13 Commissioner Vacancy

The Ingham County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the appointment of Simar Pawar to fill the vacant District 13 County Commissioner seat. Commissioner Pawar was sworn in at the January 24, 2023 meeting of the Ingham County Board of Commissioners
Ingham County Seeking Applications for Vacancy on Board of Commissioners

Ingham County Seeking Applications for Vacancy on Board of Commissioners

Commissioner-elect Amy Salisbury has announced her resignation from the Ingham County Board of Commissioners effective January 1, 2023.

The Ingham County Board of Commissioners will begin the process of selecting a candidate to fill the vacancy created by the resignation. Applications with resumés will be accepted through Monday, January 9, 2023 at 5 p.m.  Applications are available here, or by contacting the Board of Commissioners’ Office at (517) 676-7200.
Fall Zootacular

Fall Zootacular

Get ready for an event full of colors, costumes, candy, and more! Gather the family, put on your best Halloween getup, and join us for this seasonal stroll through Potter Park Zoo.
Ingham County Broadband Initiative

Ingham County Broadband Initiative

Take a brief 5-minute survey and broadband speed test that will help create an accurate map of internet connectivity in Ingham County.

This data will be used to assist in broadband planning efforts.
Potter Park Zoo Sends 1,800 tadpoles to Puerto Rico

Potter Park Zoo Sends 1,800 tadpoles to Puerto Rico

The Potter Park Zoo team shipped 1,800 Puerto Rican crested toad tadpoles to Puerto Rico last week. These tadpoles were released in the wild as part of the Puerto Rican Crested Toad Conservancy (PRCTC) efforts to restore the population of this endangered species. The PRCTC is a team effort comprised of zoos, individuals, and organizations working together for the long-term survival of the Puerto Rican crested toad in the wild.
Potter Park Zoo Nights

Potter Park Zoo Nights

Join us for Zoo Nights #2 at Potter Park Zoo on  June 16, 2022, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. for guests 21 and older.
Mother's Day - All Moms Enter Free

Mother's Day - All Moms Enter Free

Mother’s Day – All Moms Enter Free! May 8 @ 9:00 am - 5:00 pm What: Mother’s Day Celebration When: May 8, 2022, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Where: Potter Park Zoo Celebrate Mother’s Day at the Zoo! All moms will receive FREE admission to Potter Park on May 8! We can’t wait to see you here at the zoo! + Google Calendar+ Add to iCalendar Details Date: May 8 Time: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Potter Park Zoo Celebrating Arbor Day

Potter Park Zoo Celebrating Arbor Day

Potter Park Zoo invites the community and local elected officials to celebrate Arbor Day at the Zoo. A swamp white oak tree will be planted along the Red Cedar River and tree themed conservation education stations led by Zoo volunteers and community partners can be enjoyed throughout the zoo by all guests.
Celebrate Earth Day at the Zoo

Celebrate Earth Day at the Zoo

Join us for Party for the Planet on April 23 from 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm at the Potter Park Zoo Celebrate Earth Day at the zoo! Party for the Planet is North America’s largest Earth Day celebration, with more than 120 zoos and aquariums across the country participating. Explore conservation issues with hands-on activities, information and demonstrations around the zoo. What can you do to help the planet? Party for the Planet is included in regular admission price on Saturday, April 23, 2022. Come on out and celebrate with us!
Irene Cahill Appointed to Serve as Ingham County Commissioner for District 9

Irene Cahill Appointed to Serve as Ingham County Commissioner for District 9

Mason, Michigan – The Ingham County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the appointment of Irene Cahill to fill the vacant District 9 County Commissioner seat. Commissioner Cahill was sworn in at the October 12, 2021 meeting of the Ingham County Board of Commissioners.
Senate Bill 82 Section 1222(4) Regarding Emergency Orders

Senate Bill 82 Section 1222(4) Regarding Emergency Orders

Section 1222(4) of SB 82 states: If a local health officer has an emergency order under section 2453 of the public health code, 1978 PA 368, MCL 333.2453, in effect as of October 1, 2021, the funds appropriated in part 1 for essential local public health services are unappropriated. This subsection does not apply if a county board of commissioners passes a nonbinding resolution by a record roll call vote to support any emergency orders the local health officer has in effect on October 1 of the current fiscal year.
Ingham County Health Department Statement on Local Health Orders in Educational Setting

Ingham County Health Department Statement on Local Health Orders in Educational Setting

The Ingham County Health Department has received numerous inquiries regarding the status and legality of our local public health emergency orders for educational settings after the Governor signed the 2022 state budget bill which includes language that threatens public health funding. After consulting with legal counsel, it is now clear that the Health Departments retain the authority to issue and enforce their emergency orders. The boilerplate language, the written statement of the Governor, and the Michigan Constitution have been reviewed and analyzed and the boilerplate language will have no effect on the Ingham County Health Department, its budget, or existing public health orders.

Red Panda Day

Red Panda Day

Red Panda Day September 18 @ 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Come celebrate red pandas! Whether you are already a fan or you don’t know much about them (or even what they are), this is your chance to learn more.
Ingham County Board of Commissioners Returning to In-Person Meetings

Ingham County Board of Commissioners Returning to In-Person Meetings

The Ingham County Board of Commissioners will be returning to in-person meetings starting on July 15th, 2021 with the Law & Courts Committee meeting.

With the current local State of Emergency ending on June 30th, 2021, the Board of Commissioners will not be extending this beyond this date. As a local State of Emergency was one of the qualifying reasons to hold virtual meetings according to the Open Meetings Act as amended, the Board of Commissioners will no longer be able to meet virtually.
Historic Mason Courthouse to Open to the Public July 6, 2021

Historic Mason Courthouse to Open to the Public July 6, 2021

The Mason Historic Courthouse will open to the public on July 6, 2021 at 8:00 am. Visitors and staff will not be required to mask or social distance but those individuals who are not fully vaccinated (14 days after final vaccination) are encouraged to do so. Visitors should use the south entrance to the courthouse (Ash Street) and will be required to pass through security to gain access.
Justice Complex Update

Justice Complex Update

The construction of the new Justice Complex is progressing on time.  A groundbreaking ceremony was held on April 22, 2021.  Renderings of the complex and the latest updates are available.
Board of Commissioners Approve Small Business Rescue Grant Program

Board of Commissioners Approve Small Business Rescue Grant Program

The Ingham County took action to assist small businesses negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic by approving an $11 million Small Business Rescue Grant Program resolution to be administered by the Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP). The funding for the Program will come from Ingham County’s $56.7 million allocation from the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act.
Potter Park Zoo's Black Rhino Calf Heading to a New Home in the Fall

Potter Park Zoo's Black Rhino Calf Heading to a New Home in the Fall

Jaali, the first black rhino calf in Potter Park’s 100-year history, will be heading to a new home this fall. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) black rhino Species Survival Program (SSP) has announced that Jaali will be paired with a young female for breeding at his new facility.

 

Zoo Nights

Zoo Nights

This spring and summer, join us after-hours for a night of drinks, appetizers, and live music from local musicians. The first Zoo Nights event is scheduled for May 13, 2021.
PA123  Publication List

PA123 Publication List

Ingham County is required by statute to publish a listing of properties at risk of foreclosure for non-payment of property taxes.
Ingham County Creates Racial Equity Taskforce

Ingham County Creates Racial Equity Taskforce

At their June 9, 2020 meeting, the Ingham County Board of Commissioners unanimously adopted Resolution #20-254 to declare racism as a public health crisis in Ingham County and recommitted its full attention to improving the quality of life and health of Black Ingham County residents.
Potter Park Zoo Is Open

Potter Park Zoo Is Open

Potter Park Zoo is open!   We’ve missed you!

We’re grateful for the many ways the Lansing community has supported the zoo over the past few months. We love seeing comments, questions, and participation on social media, but we’re excited to see you all in person at the zoo, too!
Ingham County Suspends Services

Ingham County Suspends Services

To protect the overall public health of our citizens, families, and employees Ingham County is following the recommendations of the State of Michigan and the Ingham County Health Department in preventing the spread of the COVID-19/coronavirus by suspending County operations. Beginning Tuesday, March 17, 2020 at 8:00 a.m. most County departments and services including the parks will be suspended. While limited staff will continue to perform essential functions, a number of County facilities will be closed to the public.
2020 Census.  Be Counted!

2020 Census. Be Counted!

Important Dates In mid-March, homes across the country will begin receiving invitations to complete the 2020 Census. Once the invitation arrives, you should respond for your home in one of three ways: online, by phone, or by mail.
Meet Jaali

Meet Jaali

Jaali was born Dec. 24 at 5:40 a.m and is the zoo’s first black rhino calf in its 100-year history. Mom Doppsee and Dad Phineus are both first time parents.
25th Annual Wonderland of Lights

25th Annual Wonderland of Lights

Join us for the 25th Annual Wonderland of Lights. Thousands of lights create extraordinary holiday light displays.
Zoo Animal Meet and Greet

Zoo Animal Meet and Greet

Looking for a gift to ‘WOW’ a special someone? Need a ‘Knock Your Socks Off’ gift for a client, loved one or even to celebrate a special occasion? We’ve got you covered!
Quality Healthcare is Coming to Your Neighborhood

Quality Healthcare is Coming to Your Neighborhood

See a Doctor - No Cost to You - Get Help Sparrow, Ingham County Health Department, and Dean Transportation are teaming up to bring our Mobil Health Clinic to five Ingham County locations. We're offering health screenings and services at no charge. If you have Medicaid/Medicare or other insurance coverage p.ease bring your membership card.
Ingham County 9-1-1 Adds Text to 911 Services

Ingham County 9-1-1 Adds Text to 911 Services

Text-to-911 will be available to all individuals living in or traveling through Ingham County on January 16th, 2019. Text-to-911 is another means of contacting a 911 dispatcher in an emergency situation when a caller is unable to make a voice call. It is important for citizens to know that Text-to-911 is a great addition to our dispatch center, but it should be used in a very limited capacity. It is not the preferred method of receiving emergencies. In fact, citizens should follow this guideline; CALL 911 WHEN YOU CAN AND TEXT WHEN YOU CAN’T. We do not anticipate that we will receive many emergencies via text. Most 911 centers currently using Text-to-911 see very low percentage of usage.
How Would  Federal Government Shutdown Impact Ingham County Operations?

How Would Federal Government Shutdown Impact Ingham County Operations?

Fortunately, Ingham County does not depend on federal government assistance for most County services. Total County revenue from all sources in 2017 was $166.5 million, of which about $8.1 million (4.9%) came directly from the federal government. Federal funds pay for road projects ($4.1 million), Health Department programs ($3.3 million), judicial activities and some law enforcement services ($668,000
MDARD Report Released

MDARD Report Released

The Ingham County Board of Commissioners released the results of the investigation and findings of the Ingham County Controller/Administrator concerning the Ingham County Animal Control and Shelter Report Issued by the Michigan Humane Society.
Thank You Voters

Thank You Voters

The Ingham County Board of Commissioners, Sheriff Scott Wriggelsworth and 55th District Court Judges Donald Allen and Thomas Boyd thank the voters of Ingham County for approving the Justice Complex Ballot Proposal.   This millage will enable the County to replace the current County Jail, the Sheriff’s administrative offices and court facilities located in Mason.
Juvenile Justice Community Agency Process Now Open

Juvenile Justice Community Agency Process Now Open

Ingham County announced the start of the 2019 Juvenile Justice Community Agency grant application process.Ingham County will provide financial support to community agencies to support the goals of the Juvenile Justice Millage program.
Justice Complex Ballot Proposal

Justice Complex Ballot Proposal

The County is requesting that the voters consider a millage that would replace the current county jail, the Sheriff''s administrative offices and court facilities located in Mason.
Property Assessed Clean Energy Program

Property Assessed Clean Energy Program

A public hearing has been scheduled for May 22, 2018, at 6:30 p.m. at the Ingham County Courthouse, Board of Commissioners Room, 341 S. Jefferson, Mason, MI 48854 to receive comments on the PACE Program, including the amended PACE Report.
All In For Ingham

All In For Ingham

Interested in making a difference in the community? Join All In For Ingham -- an effort to provide opportunities for those interested in volunteering their time to make our community a better place.
Ingham County Launches 2018 Budget Process

Ingham County Launches 2018 Budget Process

The Ingham County Board of Commissioners launched its 2018 budget process with the adoption of the budget calendar and strategic plan.
Advisory Board and Commission Opportunities

Advisory Board and Commission Opportunities

Interested in participating in County Government?  The Ingham County Board of Commissioners is seeking applications for vacancies on various boards and commissions.  This is an excellent opportunity for citizens to become involved in local government.