Traverse City 2025 Mayoral and City Commission Election Information

Why are you interested in serving the people, families, and businesses of Traverse City?

Traverse City is my hometown and I love it. For the last ten years it has been my honor to serve as an elected official- as Commissioner, Mayor Pro-Tem, and Mayor- to represent the people of Traverse City. Our community is an amazing place with really dedicated citizens and committed, local business owners. Keeping that balance of being a great place to live and thrive for everyone is key to the future of our city.

Are there current City policies, projects, or approaches that you are hoping to change or champion, and if so, how?

I am proud of the work we have done to make our city more professional in the last two years. We had our first 360 review process in over a decade, hired consultants to review how we train as commissioners, and, most importantly, finished our first Strategic Plan in a generation. All of these will help the City to run and be run more cohesively as we move forward with how to set priorities and govern.
The Strategic Plan in particular is going to be a great roadmap as it gives us the data we need to move confidently forward with housing advocacy, focus on community needs like childcare, and sets expectations for cooperation with both businesses and other local government. These foundations are key in helping us set the tone and pace for what we do next as a community, especially with our budget and partnerships going forward.

How will you utilize your role to support economic development and business growth sustainability in our region?

Mayor is the Chair of the Board when it comes to the City Commission. Being a steady leader at meetings helps to ensure all voices are heard on issues.
In addition to the functional part of the role, it also can be a key position when it comes to interacting with the public, from meeting with employers/industry leaders who want to bring good jobs to the area to local businesses who are already here but want to create more opportunities. Having an open mind and being willing to listen is important to welcoming people and to having conversations about what the community needs.
Economic opportunities can also come from good policies, like the City’s green initiatives and support of local business like our downtown with its almost unheard of 94% local/””chainlet”” composition. The Mayor’s one committee assignment is the DDA board, so being focused on economic development is a major part of the position.

How will you engage with the business community when considering issues that impact our local and regional economy?

For Traverse City to be thriving, viable community it needs to always strike the right balance of supporting neighborhoods and local businesses. If this balance is out of alignment, both suffer. From issues like affordable/workforce housing to local green initiatives, it is vital to have input from our business community. Policies can be created, but if they are not feasible for a business to actually enact or follow, then they are not actually helping the issue they were created to solve. Having business input at all steps is the only way to ensure we can both be policy leaders in the state here in Traverse City, but also make the impact we hope to make with our initiatives.

What specific infrastructure projects would you like to see to make our region more attractive to potential businesses and residents?

Before being elected mayor, I served on TCLP as a commissioner. During that time we developed the TCLP Fiber offering as a utility offering (to be fully rolled out by end of Fall 2025 I have been told). The completion of that project is a huge step forward for our community residents and businesses. We are a leader in the state on this project and, while it has had some bumps in the road along the way, that signal to both community members now and anyone looking to Traverse City as a future home is key to showing we are a forward thinking, technology focused place to live.
Initiatives like FishPass and our connections to the Freshwater Institute are also important to maintain and support. As a regional and internationally collaborative project, it shows Traverse City is a community ready to work with partners, public and private, to be an innovative leader not just in Michigan, but globally.
Lastly, though most important, is finding solutions to repairing and upgrading our stormwater system. Traverse City is a successful city, in part, because of our location and natural resources. Stormwater is an issue that is key to our community’s commitment to being good stewards of this land and our citizens.

How will you work to increase the availability and affordability of workforce housing in the City?

In the last 2-3 years I have seen more cooperation on this issue than ever before. We have to continue to foster and grow the partnerships working on this key issue. For most of my ten years in office, it has often felt like the response to the housing crisis was only being discussed at the City level. There were most definitely affordable housing projects all over the region, but not a regional discussion happening. That has been a key change.
The reality is, City policy and/or land will solve this problem alone. We need to trust the experts when creating policy, utilize tools like PILOTs, join others in supporting changes in Lansing (like Workforce PILOTs) and continue regional discussions like those started with Housing North to attack this issue on multiple fronts.

How do you believe the City should engage with regional partners to attract more young people and working age families to the region?

The City must always be willing to sit at the table for any of these discussions and enact policies when possible to make it a place everyone can live with real age and socio-economic diversity. We do some work with previously mentioned affordable housing policy, but our work with the Arts Commission, City Opera House, and other entities is changing how Traverse City is seen (like the new Mural Festival) as well. Arts and culture are not at all the solutions to these major issues, but they are a way to show the vibrancy of the people in our community that is also key to attracting people.
That said, this is where partnerships are essential because the City cannot dictate pay or even private enterprise that might attract younger people. Housing costs and better paying jobs take a multi-pronged approach the City will not be able to manage alone. Our Economic Development deal with Traverse Connect is one of the ways we are working on these issues, but so is our staff’s active and engaged approach to working with regional partners.

Do you support the use of tax increment financing as a tool for the region to share in the cost of the City’s infrastructure and community development?

Yes. In the case of TIF 97, the numbers to run the downtown alone will take more from the City’s general fund than eliminating TIF will send back to it. It will also lose nearly $1 million in regional support that is key to maintaining and improving the City’s aging infrastructure (e.g.- the four bridge projects downtown in the last few years)
As we look at corridor improvements like 14th Street, the numbers for making any real change there cannot be done with the City’s regular budgeting and financing alone. The 8th Street project was fortunate timing of grants available, City budget, and state/federal funding. That unicorn is unlikely to appear again, especially in the coming years. TIFs are one of the few tools communities in Michigan have for regional cost sharing.

Why are you interested in serving the people, families, and businesses of Traverse City?

Traverse City needs steady and principled leadership. Over the past two years there has been serious turmoil at the position of City Manager, resulting in wasted time and money that should have been invested in the City for its residents. It’s time to get Traverse City back on track, and if elected I intend to work with City Commissioners and the new City Manager to end the palace intrigue and establish a professional culture.

Are there current City policies, projects, or approaches that you are hoping to change or champion, and if so, how?

1. The condition of our streets and the pace at which we address them (see infrastructure question)
2. Repair the leaking sewer system that wastes millions of dollars every year and threatens Grand Traverse Bay (see infrastructure question)
3.  Make government decisions clear, transparent, and public by promoting a culture of asking questions so that residents, commissioners, and business owners understand “”why”” a decision is made, even if they don’t agree with the decision. Focus on building consensus on the City Commission to establish goals and priorities that will guide the City Manager and Staff in order to more wisely spend tax dollars.

How will you utilize your role to support economic development and business growth sustainability in our region?

A focus on making Traverse City the best it can be for its current residents will continue to attract individuals and families; some of who will bring a business or start a business. Working for the benefit of residents is the best way to work for the benefit of business.

How will you engage with the business community when considering issues that impact our local and regional economy?

I will always be available to meet and discuss issues with individuals, for profit, and non-profit entities. In addition I will encourage the City Commission to hold periodic town hall style forums at which real discussions can be held between the public and the elected body.

What specific infrastructure projects would you like to see to make our region more attractive to potential businesses and residents?

1. Condition of streets and the pace at which we address them. Traverse City already has a pavement rating system, PASER, in place. As a community we can discuss what minimal condition we want our streets to be in, and the cost to achieve that condition. Are we willing to spend the tax dollars to achieve that condition, and how many years will it take? A needed discussion at the City Commission with significant public input.
2. Traverse City has a sanitary sewer system and a storm water sewer system that are in disrepair threaten the water quality of Grand Traverse Bay, and cost millions of dollars a year as we treat storm water unnecessarily at the waste water treatment plant. As with streets, it is time to discuss a goal and the time and money needed to achieve that goal.”

How will you work to increase the availability and affordability of workforce housing in the City?

Focus on building consensus on the City Commission for things we can agree on, such as adding workforce housing to our primary corridors; Garfield, 8th, 14th, Woodmere, etc. Additionally, revisit the report provided to Traverse City by Rob Bacigalupi that identified underutilized, and sometimes forgotten parcels of public land that could be used for workforce housing. Development projects take time and often hit roadblocks, so Traverse City should be feeding the pipeline regularly so that the public can see real results on the ground.

How do you believe the City should engage with regional partners to attract more young people and working age families to the region?

As in my earlier answer, I will work to make Traverse City the best it can be for its current residents, and this will attract families. For example, I am currently chair of the Brown Bridge Trust Fund ad hoc tasked with prioritizing Parks investments for November’s ballot initiative. A priority is playground equipment, both classic and newer interactive features, specifically for the benefit of young families. For “quality of life” at all ages: for over a decade I have been the leading voice on the City Commission for investments and improvements at Hickory Hills with the goal of attracting more users – current and future residents.

Do you support the use of tax increment financing as a tool for the region to share in the cost of the City’s infrastructure and community development?

When the question “why” can be answered multiple times satisfactorily I do support its use. The Traverse City DDA has lost its way, and is not fiscally responsible with our region’s tax dollars. “Cost of City’s infrastructure” are words that they hide behind but do not provide a track record or future plan to support. Now that a vote of residents is needed, I hope that they will start fresh and find investments that are worthy of tax payers saying “yes.”

Why are you interested in serving the people, families, and businesses of Traverse City?

I’m running because our region’s economic success depends on smart local government that understands business needs and actually delivers results.

My background gives me unique insight into what drives business success. Growing up working in my family’s restaurant in a small Michigan tourist town, I learned how local businesses shape community character and economic health. Today, in my role helping companies across the U.S. and Canada grow their sales operations, I see daily what businesses need to thrive and create the family-sustaining careers that Traverse Connect champions.

I bring proven experience in areas critical to our regional economy:

Resource Attraction & Infrastructure: Secured over $60 million in federal and regional funding for transportation infrastructure – the backbone that supports business operations and workforce mobility. As commissioner, I’ll leverage those same skills to bring additional resources our region needs to compete.

Workforce Development: Through my work on BATA’s board and having lead more than 100 community engagement sessions, I understand that attracting talent requires housing availability, transportation options, and overall livability. I’m focused on addressing our 2,700-unit housing shortage while preserving community character through unique programs and through regional collaboration.

Business-Friendly Growth: I support strategic development using tools like PILOT programs and smart zoning that creates workforce housing without compromising what makes our region attractive to businesses and families.

Regional Collaboration: My experience facilitating public-private partnerships aligns with Traverse Connect’s mission. Whether working with townships on housing or state agencies on infrastructure, I know our economic success requires working together across boundaries.

What sets me apart is my track record of delivering tangible results – exactly the skills needed to advance Traverse Connect’s vision of making our region “”a diversified economic destination of choice.

Our businesses deserve a commissioner who understands that good governance is good for business – someone who can work as a strategic partner with the business community while making the infrastructure and policy investments that drive long-term regional prosperity. That’s the experience and partnership approach I’ll bring to City Commission.

Are there current City policies, projects, or approaches that you are hoping to change or champion, and if so, how?

Accelerated Housing Solutions
Our 2,700-unit housing shortage is hurting business recruitment and retention. I’ll champion aggressive use of PILOT programs along with strategic partnerships to fast-track workforce housing development (in the region). We need to streamline approval processes and actively pursue state and federal housing resources, including leveraging the Michigan Attainable Housing Act. When businesses can’t recruit workers because of housing costs, everyone loses.

Complete Streets Implementation
As someone actively involved in the Complete Streets ad hoc committee process, I’ll champion rapid implementation of infrastructure that supports both business operations and workforce mobility. This means prioritizing street improvements that include sidewalks, bike lanes, and transit connections – especially linking residential neighborhoods to employment centers and downtown.

Regional Economic Partnerships
I’ll champion stronger collaboration with surrounding townships on workforce housing and transportation solutions. Our economic region doesn’t stop at city limits – businesses need regional solutions for housing their workers and moving goods and services.

How will you utilize your role to support economic development and business growth sustainability in our region?

As Commissioner, I’ll be the business community’s strategic partner by creating policies and priorities that help companies grow and succeed. My approach focuses on building the foundation businesses need while removing barriers that hold them back.

How will you engage with the business community when considering issues that impact our local and regional economy?

I believe in proactive partnership, not reactive damage control. This means building relationships before decisions need to be made, not after problems arise. I’ll maintain regular communication with Traverse Connect, attend meetings, and schedule quarterly business roundtables where local employers can share their challenges and priorities directly. When major economic issues come up – whether it’s housing policy, infrastructure investment, or regulatory changes – the business community will have a seat at the table from day one.

What specific infrastructure projects would you like to see to make our region more attractive to potential businesses and residents?

My infrastructure priorities focus on regional capacity and connectivity that support both business expansion and quality of life. First, we need redundancy in our wastewater and water treatment systems so we can extend these critical services beyond city limits. This isn’t just about growth – it’s about giving businesses confidence they can expand operations and helping surrounding townships develop workforce housing that our employers desperately need. When we can serve a broader region with reliable utilities, we become more competitive for business attraction and can better support regional economic development.

How will you work to increase the availability and affordability of workforce housing in the City?

I’ll tackle workforce housing as both a business necessity and a regional challenge. My approach starts with use of PILOT programs to incentivize developers to include affordable units in their projects, while also rethinking how we use underutilized properties throughout the city for strategic infill development. We can add housing density without destroying neighborhood character by focusing on empty lots, outdated commercial buildings, and other overlooked spaces that can accommodate workforce housing.

How do you believe the City should engage with regional partners to attract more young people and working age families to the region?

The city should lead regional efforts that market our area as a place where young professionals can build careers, not just visit on vacation. This means partnering with organizations like Traverse Connect, NMC, and surrounding townships to create coordinated workforce development programs, career pathway initiatives, and housing solutions that serve the entire region.

Do you support the use of tax increment financing as a tool for the region to share in the cost of the City’s infrastructure and community development?

I respect the decision voters made in 2024 requiring any new TIF plans to be approved by referendum. That democratic process gives our community direct control over these decisions, which I support. As commissioner, my focus will be on working within whatever framework voters approve, while ensuring we pursue all available tools and partnerships to fund the infrastructure and development our business community needs.

Why are you interested in serving the people, families, and businesses of Traverse City?

I am interested in serving the residents and families of Traverse City because as a husband and father of a family in Traverse City I am committed to making Traverse City a safe, connected and thriving place for every family and every resident. Supporting families can be accomplished through efforts that support local resident owned businesses. Serving families and businesses alike supports the idea of community.

Are there current City policies, projects, or approaches that you are hoping to change or champion, and if so, how?

The most current City project that I am interested in is the Cities Strategic Action Plan effort. This has gathered my attention due to the interests that came together to focus attention on “where we are going as a city” and how as a city we are going to prioritize our tax dollars and attention. One of the interesting elements of the Strategic Plan was the focus on a need for childcare.

How will you utilize your role to support economic development and business growth sustainability in our region?

Identifying opportunities to support a year round economy and not an over reliance on tourism is a very important focus for me. Putting an emphasis toward non-tourism focused businesses that are consistent in demand for products and services leads to a more resident friendly approach that I strongly support.

How will you engage with the business community when considering issues that impact our local and regional economy?

Being available and open to speak with businesses about what their unique needs and concerns are is important to me. I have a strong willingness to speak with everyone, especially those who have a difference of opinion, particularly because I want collaboration and to gather a complete picture of what the issues or needs may be. It is essential to make the best decision for everyone involved.

What specific infrastructure projects would you like to see to make our region more attractive to potential businesses and residents?

Prioritizing an aggressive focus on improving our streets, sidewalks, stormwater runoff, fresh water and sewer systems ultimately benefits businesses and residents needs. This is a key point of why I am running for Traverse City Commission. I want these to receive the attention and prioritization that I believe they deserve.

How will you work to increase the availability and affordability of workforce housing in the City?

I want to prioritize the housing needs of the city by looking closely at the pros and cons of the housing projects and tools that can be used to finance and develop them. Development of housing is a priority and a concern of mine, but it cannot come at the expense of what makes our town and neighborhoods unique and the special place that we as residents love. In this area regional collaboration will continue to be important and essential.

How do you believe the City should engage with regional partners to attract more young people and working age families to the region?

I think young people and working age families are already strongly attracted to this area and the challenge is available and affordable housing options for them. So, as I spoke to in question 6, putting attention towards housing availability will be an essential component of attracting young people and families.

Do you support the use of tax increment financing as a tool for the region to share in the cost of the City’s infrastructure and community development?

Tax Increment Financing was a successful tool in the revitalization of the downtown corridor. However, I feel misalignment of financial priorities in the spending of TIF dollars has created a difference of opinions on the future of TIF districts. The voters must now approve any future uses of TIF. I support the right of city voters to do that.

Why are you interested in serving the people, families, and businesses of Traverse City?

I’m running for City Commission to help guide Traverse City forward in a way that reflects the voices and values of the people who live here. I’m committed to working alongside residents, business owners, fellow commissioners and city staff to find practical community-focused solutions.I see this as a way to give back to Traverse City.

Are there current City policies, projects, or approaches that you are hoping to change or champion, and if so, how?

I believe that when you have healthy neighborhoods, you have a healthy city. But right now we’re seeing top-down decisions that don’t necessarily reflect neighborhood values or vision. I support growth – but it has to reflect the character of our City and the voice of the people who live here.

How will you utilize your role to support economic development and business growth sustainability in our region?

I believe economic growth works best when it supports the long-term health of the community. Which means encouraging development that creates local opportunities, respects our environment, and maintains the quality of life that makes this area such a great place to live and visit.

How will you engage with the business community when considering issues that impact our local and regional economy?

I believe open communication is key. I plan to stay connected with local business owners and industry groups to better understand their needs and concerns. When decisions come up that could affect the local or regional economy, I want to hear directly from the people impacted by these decisions.

I believe we need to work towards solutions that create a healthy business environment, and a strong community.

What specific infrastructure projects would you like to see to make our region more attractive to potential businesses and residents?

Repair of our roads, address the flooding of streets after heavy rain, manage the sewer runoff into the bay and complete the sidewalk addition/repair in the neighborhoods.

How will you work to increase the availability and affordability of workforce housing in the City?

I believe this needs to be a regional solution. We need to be working with our neighboring townships to come up with a plan for actual affordable housing that fits within the character of the neighborhoods.

How do you believe the City should engage with regional partners to attract more young people and working age families to the region?

The lack of affordable housing and lack of childcare is a major concern that doesn’t end at the city limits. These are essential needs families have when relocating to our region. Regional partnering provides not only collaboration, but shared costs and shared solutions.

Do you support the use of tax increment financing as a tool for the region to share in the cost of the City’s infrastructure and community development?

Yes

Why are you interested in serving the people, families, and businesses of Traverse City?

I’m proud to call Traverse City home. It’s where I’ve raised my family and spent more than 25 years serving our community—supporting schools, parks, nonprofits, and local government. Our City Commission needs thoughtful, experienced leadership that can both preserve what makes Traverse City special and tackle urgent challenges like housing affordability, infrastructure investment, economic development, and smart growth.

I’m running for City Commission because I want to help move our city forward in a strategic, proactive way that benefits both residents and businesses. If elected, I’ll bring a common-sense approach, a strong track record of collaboration, and a proven ability to turn good ideas into real results.

Are there current City policies, projects, or approaches that you are hoping to change or champion, and if so, how?

Yes. I see three key opportunities for the new City Commission:

1. Hire a Permanent City Manager
   Strong, steady, and stable leadership is essential for effective city government. Hiring the next permanent City Manager is one of the most important decisions facing the new Commission. We must ensure the process is transparent and rooted in public trust. Just as important, the City Commission must fully support the selected individual and provide the tools and support they need to succeed.
2. Implement the Strategic Plan
   With input from more than 1,500 residents, business owners, and community leaders, Traverse City’s first-ever strategic plan clearly outlines our community’s priorities. The next step is implementation. That will require focus, leadership, and clear alignment between City policy, the budget, and the plan’s core pillars. I’m committed to ensuring City Commission follows the Plan and drives real, measurable progress on the issues that matter most.
3. Redefine the Culture of City Government
   To address regional challenges—like housing access and affordability, infrastructure needs, childcare, economic development, and climate resilience—we must build stronger relationships and partnerships across the region. That begins with reshaping the culture of city government to be more proactive, collaborative, and focused. I will work to create a culture within the city government that is more responsive to residents and more engaged with the broader region. As a Commissioner, I will also work to rebuild public trust through clear communication and meaningful public engagement—ensuring that residents and businesses are informed, heard, and included in decisions that shape our future.

How will you utilize your role to support economic development and business growth sustainability in our region?

As a City Commissioner, I will support business growth and economic development by grounding my decisions in the City’s new Strategic Plan. A core pillar of that plan is to “expand business diversity and innovation capability to build a year-round economy.” To advance this strategy, I will champion the following key action areas:

• Moderate the seasonal nature of tourism by strengthening the development of a year-round, diversified economy.
• Attract talent and innovation capability by positioning our community as an attractive, livable place to work and invest.
• Explore opportunities in recreation- and resource-based products and businesses that leverage our natural assets.
• Build on the region’s specialized advanced manufacturing sector to diversify and stabilize our economy.

I will keep the City Commission focused on strategic budget alignment, data-driven planning and evaluation, and close collaboration with partners like Traverse Connect to design and deliver programs that reflect these priorities. Through proactive and intentional leadership, we can help transform Traverse City’s economy into one that sustains businesses year-round, supports our workforce and residents, and fosters a vibrant, innovative, and balanced economy for the future.

How will you engage with the business community when considering issues that impact our local and regional economy?

Strong engagement with the business community is essential for crafting smart, effective policy. Business leaders offer critical insight on housing, workforce issues, zoning, and economic development.
I’m committed to active listening, open communication, and genuine collaboration. I will attend Traverse Connect events, maintain open lines of dialogue, and seek broad input from the business community on policies affecting our shared economy.

I have earned the trust and respect of many business leaders across the community through more than 25 years of long-standing involvement in local organizations and initiatives. Business owners and City residents know that I listen, lead with integrity, and deliver results—and they know I’ll be a City Commissioner who is deeply rooted in the community and committed to tackling the challenging issues we face.

What specific infrastructure projects would you like to see to make our region more attractive to potential businesses and residents?

In collaboration with the City’s key partners throughout the region, I will prioritize infrastructure investments that align with the City’s core values and new strategic plan, including:

• Municipal Infrastructure: Upgrade water, sewer, and stormwater systems to support growth and protect water quality.
• Blue Economy: Support the development of a year-round, diversified economy by advancing projects like FishPass and the Freshwater Research Center, and by fostering innovation through partnerships with organizations such as 20Fathoms.
• Public Spaces: Support the development of a Farmers Market Pavilion and other spaces that strengthen local business and community connection.
• Parks, Trails, and Freshwater Assets: Continue investing in parks, trails, beaches, the urban tree canopy, and the Boardman/Ottaway River’s health, access, and recreation.

How will you work to increase the availability and affordability of workforce housing in the City?

I will work to increase the availability and affordability of workforce housing through zoning and land use reform, aligning City plans and budgets with real housing goals, strengthening regional partnerships with townships, developers, nonprofits, and the state and taking advantage of innovative newly available tools like the state’s new housing TIF and the Michigan Attainable Housing Facilities Act, which provides tax incentives to encourage the development and renovation of affordable housing.

A key opportunity lies in reimagining the City’s underutilized corridors. These areas are already served by infrastructure, yet current zoning often limits innovative, mixed-use development. By updating these policies, we can support more housing without disrupting the character of existing neighborhoods.

My experience leading multi-jurisdictional projects, building public-private partnerships, and aligning systems for long-term results sets me apart from other candidates. I’ll work for forward-thinking, transparent housing policies that truly serve our community—and help more people call Traverse City home.

How do you believe the City should engage with regional partners to attract more young people and working age families to the region?

This is an issue that’s near and dear to my heart. As a parent of young adults, I want them—and others like them—to have the opportunity to live here, build meaningful careers, and raise their families in Traverse City.

To attract and retain young people and working families, the City needs to work with regional partners, including employers, developers, local school districts, and NMC, to address the barriers—particularly in housing, childcare, and education.

At the same time, we must continue investing in what makes Traverse City a great place to live—our neighborhoods, vibrant public spaces, strong schools, and opportunities for connection and recreation. These are the things that build lasting communities.

Do you support the use of tax increment financing as a tool for the region to share in the cost of the City’s infrastructure and community development?

I support TIF as a smart, flexible tool that helps fund public infrastructure—not just downtown, but across the city. TIF has supported essential improvements in our downtown core, along key corridors, through Brownfield redevelopment, and now, with the state’s new housing TIF, can help unlock workforce housing projects as well. These tools allow us to meet infrastructure needs without placing the full burden on City taxpayers, and they help align development with our broader community goals.

Following the 2024 ballot initiative, any new or amended TIF plans now require voter approval. As a City Commissioner, I’ll work with our partners to advance TIF proposals that are grounded in public input, aligned with our Master Plan and Strategic Action Plan, and designed to deliver clear value to residents across the city and region. With this approach, TIF can continue to be a critical tool for shared regional progress.

Why are you interested in serving the people, families, and businesses of Traverse City?

I am running for city commission because I am committed to preserving the unique communities that define our city. Traverse City is more than just a beautiful place, it’s a network of neighborhoods filled with families, vibrant local businesses, and a spirit of community that sets us apart. I aim to support thoughtful development that reflects the needs and values of our residents and safeguard our natural resources. I also want to advocate for local businesses, encourage affordable housing options that do not degrade our city’s character, and promote community engagement at every level.
As our city grows, I believe we must manage change in ways that best fit our citizens and protect the character of our city. We all want a Traverse City that remains welcoming, connected, and thriving for generations to come.

Are there current City policies, projects, or approaches that you are hoping to change or champion, and if so, how?

One of my key initiatives is to strengthen regional collaboration with our surrounding governments to address some of our toughest challenges. Housing, homelessness, and diversifying our economy are issues that are too significant for the city to handle alone. A more collaborative approach to address such issues is key to ensure a thriving Traverse City. Representing and/or creating regional task forces to establish shared goals and to create strategic initiatives for this region must be a priority.

Another Initiative is to focus on the maintenance of our current infrastructure and public spaces. Our parks, public spaces, and roads must be maintained to the highest levels if we want to retain young families and encourage economic growth in the region.

How will you utilize your role to support economic development and business growth sustainability in our region?

As a city commissioner and a member of our business community, I believe the long-term prosperity of Traverse City depends on fostering a thriving, resilient, and inclusive local economy that values both entrepreneurship and collaboration. Our city’s limited geographic size of only eight square miles underscores the necessity of partnering with our regional neighbors to secure shared growth and opportunity.
I am committed to engaging with local business groups, supporting policies that promote business development, and ensuring Traverse City remains a dynamic place to live, work, and invest. I will champion:

• Robust public private partnerships to leverage diverse expertise and investment.
• Forward thinking infrastructure and workforce initiatives that serve the needs of our businesses and residents.
• Smart, responsible land use that encourages sustainable growth and opportunity for all.
• Active participation in regional discussions and alliances, recognizing that the economic health of Traverse City is inseparable from that of the broader Grand Traverse area.

Together, by collaborating across city lines and investing in our shared future, we can build an even stronger foundation for business success and resiliant communities, ensuring Traverse City’s prosperity for generations to come.

How will you engage with the business community when considering issues that impact our local and regional economy?

I will support local business groups by being active with organizations such as the Traverse City Downtown Development Authority, Traverse Connect, and sector-specific groups to hear concerns and share insights. As earlier stated, engaging with regional bodies is critical. Collaborating with neighboring townships, Grand Traverse County, and economic development organizations to align priorities and resources is vital for our economy.

What specific infrastructure projects would you like to see to make our region more attractive to potential businesses and residents?

A key initiative of mine is to ensure an adequate budget for enhancements to our public spaces. Developing a comprehensive maintenance strategy for our parks and public spaces will ensure these areas remain beautiful, safe, and accessible for all. We all thrive around beauty and nature and Traverse City has an abundance of both. As city commissioner I will advocate strongly to enhance our cities aesthetics for all to enjoy. On a regional level I will champion needed infrastructure investments by advocating for more available transportation, broadband/fiber and workforce development projects that benefit both Traverse City and the larger region.

How will you work to increase the availability and affordability of workforce housing in the City?

As city commissioner, I am committed to making Traverse City a place where local workers can live, work, and thrive. Our businesses and public institutions depend on a strong workforce, and addressing housing availability and affordability is critical to our economic vitality and community well-being.
To increase workforce housing, I will pursue a comprehensive approach:

1. Expanding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Support ADUs by streamlining permitting, updating zoning, and offering incentives for homeowners to create and rent affordable units to local workers. This practical solution allows for gentle infill, preserves neighborhood character, and adds rental options quickly.
2. Community Engagement and Education: Foster open dialogue with residents to ensure new housing fits neighborhood needs, and provide guidance to help homeowners participate in programs like ADU development.
3. Encouraging Diverse Housing Types: Promote a range of housing options such as duplexes, townhomes, and mixed-use developments. By removing unnecessary barriers and updating zoning codes, we can create affordable homes that meet the needs of families, singles, and seniors alike
4. Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborate with local developers, nonprofits, and regional partners to leverage resources and create innovative workforce housing projects. This could involve identifying underutilized public land or offering strategic incentives.
5. Regional Collaboration: Work closely with surrounding jurisdictions to coordinate housing strategies. Our region’s success depends on a unified approach to affordability, particularly given Traverse City’s compact footprint.
6. Preserving Existing Affordability: Support policies and programs that prevent displacement and deterioration of naturally affordable housing, keeping long-term residents in their homes.

By advancing these strategies together, we can create more affordable, accessible homes for our essential workers, strengthening Traverse City’s economy and ensuring a vibrant future for all.

How do you believe the City should engage with regional partners to attract more young people and working age families to the region?

Traverse City must actively collaborate with regional partners to ensure we maintain a vibrant downtown, expand affordable housing, invest in family-friendly infrastructure, and create opportunities for education and career development. By presenting a unified, vibrant regional identity and working together across municipal lines, we can build a diverse and dynamic community where new generations want to live, work, and stay.

Do you support the use of tax increment financing as a tool for the region to share in the cost of the City’s infrastructure and community development?

Yes, I support TIFF as it has been a proven way to drive positive growth and improvements in our downtown area. It is the only regional tax sharing method available and by utilizing this tool, specific areas are ensured funding for years to come.