They keep our region running, and they’re being priced out.

At last week’s Sleeping Bear Gateways Council’s Capital Fundraising event, two trusted community leaders, Glen Arbor Fire Chief Bryan Ferguson and CEO of Munson Health Care Ed Ness, delivered a shared message that’s hard to ignore:

Essential workers in our region— including nurses, EMTs, caregivers, teachers, and tradespeople—are traveling up to 65 miles each way just to serve us. That kind of commute isn’t sustainable. And without access to attainable housing nearby, we risk losing the very people who protect our homes, care for our families, and keep our towns running.

When housing isn’t close, nothing runs smoothly.

Brendan Mullane, Managing Director of the Leelanau County Road Commission, underscored just how deeply this issue affects public safety and infrastructure.

In his words:

“The Leelanau County Road Commission is a local government agency where the proximity of its employees is directly correlated to its effectiveness.”

For example, snowplow drivers are on call 24/7 during winter. When they live more than 30 miles away (and some now do), response times suffer. That slows down school openings, emergency access, and travel across the region. And with pay rates around $24/hour, living close to work isn’t realistic for most.

Housing access is shrinking, while needs keep growing.

In a recent Traverse Ticker Q&A, local real estate leaders asked the question:

Q: Where is the northern Michigan real estate market headed in two years?

Chart showing the housing needs in Leelanau County in the next five years.

They offered this blunt forecast: Supply is limited. Demand is high. Land prices are preventing ownership for young working families.

The question is no longer whether we have a housing crisis. It’s what we’re going to do about it.

The legacy we leave starts now.

This region has always depended on those who showed up, who worked hard, stayed involved, and gave back. Now, it’s our turn to carry that legacy forward.

Because the strength of our communities doesn’t come from property values or tourist traffic, it comes from the people who call this place home year-round.

How Can You Help?

There are so many meaningful ways you can support the work of the Sleeping Bear Gateways Council and help strengthen our community.

  1. Our region has always been shaped by those who came here, stayed, and supported the causes that matter most. You are part of that legacy. Make a donation today.
  2. If you haven’t already, subscribe to our newsletter to stay in the loop—there’s a sign-up link right at the bottom of our homepage. And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for regular updates and stories from the region.
  3. Help us spread the word—talk to your friends, neighbors, business owners, and local officials. Share our newsletter with organizations you’re connected to, like your Yacht Club or GAL friends.
  4. Do you own land that might be suitable for conservation or community use? We’d love to hear from you—whether you’re open to donating or selling it to a local 501(c)(3), your contribution could make a lasting impact.
  5. Looking for hands-on ways to get involved? Consider volunteering with us. Every bit of support helps us protect and enhance the gateway communities of the Sleeping Bear Dunes.
  6. Please attend Zoning and Village Council meetings, encouraging their support in tackling the attainable housing crisis we have in our communities.