What is your name, and current position/title if available:
Lance Boehmer, Director of Enterprise Sales at Motive, and a current member of the Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA) Board of Directors.
How long have you lived in Traverse City?
I’ve lived in Traverse City for 5 years and have roots here that run deep in Charlevoix; it’s home for my family and me.
How do you spend your free time?
You’ll usually find me outdoors - running the trails, flying small planes out of TVC, or volunteering with TART Trails. I also enjoy biking downtown, spending time on the water, and supporting local businesses.
What are your favorite things about the area (geography)?
I love how Traverse City sits at the crossroads of nature - where forests, trails, and bays all meet. It’s one of the few places where you can bike to the beach, hike through the woods, and grab dinner downtown in the same day.
What are your favorite things about the community (people)?
Traverse City is full of people who care. Whether it’s a trail cleanup, a school event, or a local fundraiser, there’s always someone showing up to help. That shared sense of pride and stewardship is what makes this place special.
Are you a part of any community organizations?
Yes - I serve on the BATA Board of Directors, volunteer with TART Trails, and am an active member of the Civil Air Patrol. I also organize the annual Rainbow Run fundraiser and support several local nonprofits.
What are the biggest issues facing Traverse City right now (pick 3)?
Housing affordability for people who live and work here.
Safe and accessible mobility, including sidewalks, bike lanes, and school routes.
Balancing growth with environmental responsibility so we preserve what makes TC unique.
Why do you want to get involved with local politics?
Because Traverse City is at a crossroads—and the choices we make now will define how livable and connected our city becomes. I want to make sure we grow responsibly while keeping Traverse City a place where families, workers, and retirees can all thrive.
Please list all relevant experience you have for the Commission.
I’ve managed multimillion-dollar budgets, led large teams, and negotiated complex projects across public and private sectors. I currently serve on the BATA Board, bringing real experience in transportation, budgeting, and community engagement. I’ve also led community organizations and local initiatives focused on infrastructure and quality of life.
Why do you want the job?
Because I care deeply about Traverse City’s future. This role gives me the opportunity to combine my business leadership experience with my passion for community to make meaningful progress on housing, transportation, and sustainability.
What is your vision for Traverse City?
A connected, sustainable city that balances growth with character - where you can live, work, and play year-round without losing what makes this place feel like home.
List three measurable goals you have for your term, if elected:
-Add 50 new attainable housing units within city limits through ADU incentives.
-Complete or fund 5 miles of new sidewalks and bike lanes connecting neighborhoods to schools and parks.
-Expand year-round transit ridership by 10% by improving neighborhood connectivity.
