Summary
The Leelanau Township Board adopted Resolution #08 of 2024, authorizing exploration of a joint Township/Village planning and housing commission with the Village of Northport. The resolution passed 5-0 at a Regular meeting held March 12, 2024. Mike McMillan moved for adoption, Jessica Alpers supported, and Gina Harder, Jessica Alpers, Georgie Murray, Denise Dunn, and Mike McMillan voted in favor, with no members voting against.
Affordable Housing Initiatives
The resolution cites the 2019 Northwest Michigan Target Market housing study, which identified a future market need for 367 rental housing units and 301 owner-occupied housing units within Leelanau County through 2025, with the most acute need among populations at or below 80% of Average Median Income. Citing this need, and the importance of attainable, year-round rental housing for a stable workforce and year-round economy in the Village of Northport and Leelanau Township, the Board resolved to direct the Township Supervisor to explore establishing a joint Township/Village planning commission and housing commission. This commission would be responsible for studying, planning, and potentially operating attainable, year-round rental housing. The resolution references enabling state law, including the joint municipal planning act (MCL 125.131), the Urban Cooperation Act (MCL 124.501), and the municipal housing commission statute (MCL 125.651).
Action Items
- The Township Supervisor is directed to explore establishment of a joint Township/Village planning commission and housing commission for study, planning, and potential operation of attainable, year-round rental housing.
- The Township Supervisor must report back to the Township Board on this task as soon as practical, but no later than the June 2024 meeting.
- The Township Supervisor is authorized to take steps necessary to accomplish this task, within current budget constraints.