Past Convening Events
Bringing together local leaders and the community to help bring awareness of local initiatives and foster collaboration between organizations.
Annual Meeting with Guest Speaker Mary Reilly, Presented on Public Act 233 of 2023
August 15, 2024 at Little Traverse Township Hall
The Annual Meeting featured a review of Harbor Inc.'s organizational year and a presentation by Mary Reilly, a land use educator with MSU Extension. Mary, an expert in planning and zoning with over 20 years of experience, discussed Public Act 233 of 2023. This Act introduces major changes to the permitting process for large-scale renewable energy facilities, including solar, wind, and battery storage systems, transferring permitting authority to the Michigan Public Service Commission while offering options for local regulatory control. The program provided insights into the Act's key elements to aid community planning and zoning.
Annual Meeting with Guest Speaker Jennifer Wixson, Child Care Initiative
August 23, 2023 at Harbor Springs History Museum
Harbor Inc. provided updates on their ongoing projects, including a presentation by Jennifer Wixson addressing the persistent shortage of child care services in rural Northern Michigan. This issue has far-reaching implications, affecting parents, future parents, local employers, and child care providers. The broader problem of underfunding and unsustainability in America's child care system is not unique to Emmet County but extends nationwide. Nonetheless, it's crucial to recognize that quality, affordable, and dependable child care remains a cornerstone for the economic stability of all families.
Recreation Ready with Guest speaker Dr. John Hartig, Presented on "Reconnecting People to Nature in the Motor City Through Greenways and Blueways"
June 8, 2023 at Nub’s Nob Resort
Dr. Hartig delivered an enlightening presentation on the revitalization of the Detroit area waterways and green spaces to bring community together in the outdoors. Following Dr. Hartig, six local recreation organization leaders gave updates on their current projects: Little Traverse Conservancy, Emmet County Headlands, Top of Michigan Trails Council, West Traverse Township, City of Harbor Springs, and TOMMBA.
