In 2018, the Grand Traverse County Board of Commissioners voted to abolish the county planning commission (Source). In light of the 2020 census data and Housing North’s 2023 Housing Assessment Report, Trenton believes that a planning commission or department should be reinstated at the county in order to energize municipal collaboration and find innovative solutions for the housing crisis in GT County. We need a plan.

Trenton is dedicated to finding a balanced consensus on the issue of short-term rentals in Grand Traverse County. He recognizes the importance of both property rights and the need to address community concerns. Trenton plans to initiate a collaborative dialogue among residents, property owners, and local officials, working towards common-sense regulations that preserves the safety of our neighborhoods while allowing responsible short-term rental operations to thrive. By fostering open communication and compromise, Trenton aims to create a win-win solution that benefits all stakeholders in the county.

Trenton acknowledges the pressing housing crisis in Grand Traverse County and believes that it should be declared a public health emergency. By doing so, he intends to raise awareness about the far-reaching implications of this crisis, which include homelessness, housing instability, and increased stress on public health services. Trenton is committed to mobilizing resources, collaborating with local organizations, and implementing innovative strategies to address this emergency comprehensively, ensuring that all residents have access to safe and affordable housing, ultimately improving the overall health and well-being of our community.