Township Board: Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at 5:30 pm (Joint Planning and Housing Commission Resolution #8)

**Executive Summary**

**Introduction**
Resolution #08 of 2024, adopted by the Leelanau Township Board, addresses a significant housing need identified by the 2019 Northwest Michigan Target Market housing study. The study reveals a requirement for 367 rental units and 301 owner-occupied units in Leelanau County by 2025, particularly impacting those with an income at or below 80% of the Average Median Income. The resolution acknowledges that stable and attainable housing is crucial for fostering a reliable workforce and sustaining a year-round economy within the region.

**Joint Planning and Housing Commission Exploration**
The resolution puts forth the intention of Leelanau Township and the Village of Northport to collaboratively explore the establishment of a joint planning and housing commission. This initiative is supported by Michigan State laws which allow for the formation of such commissions through cooperative agreements among municipalities. This endeavor aims not only to facilitate the development of rental housing solutions but also to ensure that the needs for attainable and year-round housing options are adequately addressed.

**Next Steps and Accountability**
In the resolution, the Township Supervisor is mandated to investigate the possibilities of launching the joint commission and to report back to the Township Board by June 2024. Moreover, the Township Supervisor is granted the authority to undertake necessary actions within the existing budget parameters to advance this initiative. The meeting where this resolution was adopted was held on March 12, 2024, in accordance with the Open Meetings Act, ensuring transparency and public access to governmental processes.