Episode Summary

In this episode, we sit down with Harland Russell—lifelong Lansing resident, former City Council member, and seasoned development professional—to talk about the past, present, and future of Lansing. Harland shares insights from his time in office, reflects on lessons learned during critical infrastructure decisions, and explores how cities like Lansing can be better prepared for the next wave of growth.

4 Key Takeaways from this Episode

1. Public Service Leaves a Lasting Legacy

Harland’s time on the City Council included foundational projects like the wastewater treatment plant expansion and the development of Kenneth W. Bernard Park. These long-term investments continue to serve Lansing today and exemplify how infrastructure planning shapes community resilience.

2. Development Requires More Than Land—It Requires Readiness

From utility access to site grading, Harland emphasizes the importance of “pad-ready” sites in attracting investment. Projects can take years to secure, and proactive site preparation is often the key to winning them.

3. Balancing Growth with Community Character is a Challenge Worth Embracing

As both a public servant and private developer, Harland advocates for a thoughtful approach to growth—one that welcomes new residents and investment without losing the identity of the city. “If we don’t grow, we die,” he says—but growth should serve the whole community.

4. Lansing’s Competitive Edge Lies in Collaboration

Whether preparing land for industrial use, rethinking incentives, or promoting incremental infill housing, success comes when cities, developers, and residents work together. Lansing’s central location, military-connected workforce, and evolving development philosophy position it well—if it continues to be bold and intentional.

Resources & Contact

• Harland Russell's LinkedIn
• City of Lansing Website
• Have podcast feedback or ideas? Email us at podcast@lansingks.org

All music provided by Kris Bennets.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Ken and Joshua highlight how the City of Lansing is navigating a surge in development interest and carefully balancing different types of land use. They focus on the concept of “value per acre” as a tool for comparing property tax revenues across residential, commercial and industrial sites, and explain how this approach helps guide decision‐making about new projects.

They discuss how the City’s recent investment in infrastructure—particularly a major sewer line expansion—has positioned Lansing to attract new developments more effectively. Ken and Joshua also unpack the term “shovel‐ready,” emphasizing the importance of having roads, utilities, and correct zoning in place so that future projects can move quickly from idea to construction.

Beyond economic strategy, the co‐hosts explore what “vibrancy” means for a growing community—highlighting the need for varied housing types, a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem, and local amenities that draw people into the heart of Lansing. They also share examples of how residents and local businesses can strengthen the city from within.

Here's what you can expect to learn in this episode:

• The role of “value per acre” in planning fiscally strong development
• How sewer and other infrastructure investments reduce risk for developers
• “Shovel‐ready” land: what it entails and why it attracts faster growth
• Balancing residential, commercial, and industrial zoning for a vibrant city
• Community‐driven growth and supporting local entrepreneurs

Contact & More Info

• Email the show at: podcast@lansingks.org
• City of Lansing Website
• Rate and review on your favorite podcast platform to help others discover Thrive Lansing Kansas.

All music used with permission from Kris Bennetts.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Thrive Lansing, Kansas, Ken and Joshua sit down with Jeremy Greenamyre, a third-generation property developer shaping Lansing’s residential and commercial landscape. They discuss key real estate trends, market needs, development opportunities, and how local government can support growth.

Here's what you can expect to learn in this episode:

• Trends in Real Estate Development – Growing demand for single-level living, pet-friendly rentals, and maintenance-free housing.
• Commercial vs. Residential Market Needs – High occupancy rates due to a lack of new development, impacting Lansing’s commercial and residential sectors.
• Challenges to Development – Interest rates, post-COVID economic shifts, and infrastructure limitations.
• How Lansing Can Attract Developers – Fast-tracking zoning approvals, offering incentives, and improving access to major highways.
• Future of Lansing’s Growth – Expansion towards the south, leveraging new infrastructure, and planning for long-term development.

Lansing, Kansas is ripe for investment, with available land, tax incentives, and a supportive city council. Developers can capitalize on the demand for modern housing and well-positioned commercial spaces while benefiting from the area's proximity to the Kansas City metro.

Contact Information

Jeremy Greenamyre - Greenamyre Rentals

◦Website: https://greenamyre.com/

City of Lansing Podcast Email: podcast@lansingks.org

City of Lansing Website

All music used with permission from Kris Bennetts.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.