Traverse City Commission to Consider Density Limits and Water Pact

The Traverse City Commission, freshly sworn in following the recent election, will open its term by addressing a broad agenda that touches housing policy, intergovernmental cooperation, public infrastructure, and internal personnel matters. The meeting is set to cover proposed modifications to dwelling density limits in several zoning districts, a negotiated water agreement with Garfield Township, additional housing related items, an update on the FishPass project at the Union Street Dam site, and closed sessions on firefighter collective bargaining and a review of the interim city manager.

The proposed changes to density limits were triggered by an applicant request, prompting commissioners to review how current limits interact with development proposals and housing demand. Changes to density rules carry practical consequences for housing supply, neighborhood character, and the capacity of local infrastructure. City staff and commissioners will weigh whether ordinance revisions are needed to reconcile municipal zoning objectives with market interest and state planning guidance.

The water agreement with Garfield Township is positioned as a key regional utility matter. Agreements of this type can affect where residents receive service, how costs are apportioned, and the citys role in broader water management planning. Commissioners will evaluate terms that could influence service delivery and fiscal responsibilities for residents in both jurisdictions.

The meeting will also include an update on the FishPass project at the Union Street Dam site. Officials will present the project timetable and list of partners involved in the river restoration and fish passage effort. The FishPass initiative is significant for public access, ecological restoration of the Boardman River watershed, and potential recreational and economic benefits for the city and surrounding townships.

Members of the public should note that the commission agenda includes closed sessions related to firefighter bargaining and evaluation of the interim city manager. Those sessions will be held outside the public record under statutory exceptions, while any resulting proposals or contract terms will surface in later open meetings. Commissioners are expected to flag upcoming public meeting dates for hearings and deliberations on ordinance changes, and probable next steps include additional public input sessions and formal votes before any code amendments take effect.

For residents, the meeting is an early indicator of policy directions on housing and regional cooperation under the new commission. Stakeholders concerned about density, water service, river restoration, or labor negotiations should follow the posted agenda, attend public comment opportunities, and monitor subsequent meetings where draft ordinances and agreements will move toward final decisions.