On February 12, 2019, Theodore “Ted” Staton passed away after a battle with cancer. Ted served as city manager of East Lansing from 1995-2011. He was extremely active in the organization, and held the position of president from 2009-2010. Ted was a friend and colleague to many, even after he left Michigan to become the city manager of Upper Arlington, Ohio – a position he held until he retired just before his death.
His accomplishments and accolades were too numerous to list, but one specifically was announced bittersweetly in the hours after he passed – the 2019 ICMA Outstanding Mentor Award. His full obituary can he read here. The MME Board expresses deep condolences to Ted’s family and friends in this difficult time.