More than 20 Benzie residents, community leaders, and local officials are now working together to further the goals of the regional, citizen-based Grand Vision planning process in Benzie County.

More than 20 Benzie residents, community leaders, and local officials are now working together to further the goals of the regional, citizen-based Grand Vision planning process in Benzie County.
It’s been a busy and uncertain six months for local officials in Benzie County. Cuts in revenue continue, forcing officials to make tough decisions on funding priorities.
The State of Michigan likes Benzie, too, albeit for different nature-based reason: The county is one of the best places in the state for developing wind power.
Like every other local government in Michigan, Benzie County is really feeling the state budget crunch. That’s why, earlier this year, Benzie officials decided to cut their entire planning and zoning program; it’s a “non-mandated” service, so it is an easy target for cuts.
Seven townships in Benzie County may be stripped of all of their zoning protections due to the county’s serious budget shortfall.
Seventeen years ago, some Grand Traverse-area residents launched a grassroots movement to better manage the area’s growth. They wanted to protect the area’s pristine environment, farmland, and uniqueness.