LEELANAU COUNTY — With the housing crisis impacting the availability of workforce housing in Leelanau County, one local nonprofit organization has launched a major fundraising effort to purchase property that could one day hold affordable housing for local workers.
With an original goal of $300,000, the Sleeping Bear Gateways Council has already raised $600,000 in donations and pledges over the past few months.
The Council’s goal is to secure enough land for up to 300 housing units spread throughout the county. Board of Directors members say they are currently considering four different properties, three in Empire Township and one in Kasson Township, with the hopes of purchasing or leasing them long-term.
Having already doubled their original goal of $300,000, the nonprofit believes the community’s strong response shows residents understand the urgency of the issue.
The council hopes that owning land will help attract nonprofit developers and outside funding sources that can turn those parcels into homes.
The nonprofit has also called on local townships to consider adjustments to zoning rules that would allow for higher-density housing to become a reality.
The Sleeping Bear Gateways Council is continuing to raise funds and hopes to close on its first property soon. Donations and more information can be found here.