GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY — The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians is considering the purchase of the Boardman Lake Ottaway River Campus from Northwestern Michigan College with plans to transform the building into a governmental services center.
According to a dec. 17 news release, the proposal is intended to improve access to essential services for Grand Traverse County and surrounding regions while centralizing governmental services for the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians.
Tribal Chairwoman Sandra L. Witherspoon said the building represents a productive use of an existing community asset that would contribute to both governmental services and public recreational access.
The Tribe said the proposal would improve coordination among its government services and better meet community needs. The Boardman Lake Ottaway River Campus is proposed to serve as a centralized location to facilitate better access for tribal members.
Witherspoon said the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians values its long-standing relationship with Northwestern Michigan College and appreciates the college’s consideration of the proposal.
“GTB sincerely appreciates NMC’s thoughtful and responsive consideration of our proposal,” Witherspoon said.
She added the site’s natural beauty would be preserved and remain available for public recreational purposes.
The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians is a federally recognized Tribe that serves its members through governance, cultural preservation and community services. The Tribe holds historical significance in the Grand Traverse Bay area and is recognized by the 1836 Treaty of Washington, which affirms its rights to hunt, fish and gather within its traditional lands.
The Tribe said it looks forward to continued discussions with Northwestern Michigan College leadership to pursue a mutually beneficial path for the acquisition and use of the campus. Further details are expected to be shared as the review process continues.