VOTE411 Voter Guide

I’m Lance Boehmer, a neighbor, volunteer, and business consultant. I’m running for City Commission because I believe in a Traverse City that grows with intention, protecting what makes it special while building a future where everyone feels at home.

I grew up in rural Michigan, working in my parents’ 1950s diner. That taught me the value of service, hard work, and knowing your neighbors.

My public service career started at IndyGo in Indianapolis, where I led community engagement and helped pass a referendum that connects thousands of residents to jobs, healthcare, and education. I later held leadership positions in the automotive space with Subaru of America, Cars.com, and Cox Automotive, focusing on strategic growth and partnerships.

Today, I lead the sales team at Motive, helping businesses thrive year-round. Here in Traverse City, I serve on the BATA Board, volunteer with TART Trails, the Grand Traverse Safe Streets Alliance and the Complete Streets ad hoc committee. I also support Civil Air Patrol's search-and-rescue efforts.

I’m running because I want smart, inclusive progress. Housing that keeps teachers and service workers here, safe and connected neighborhoods, and a future that honors our character and natural beauty

1. Housing that keeps our neighbors here: Our region faces a shortage of over 2200 homes/apartments, risking the ability of teachers, firefighters, and working families to stay here. I’ll use tools like the Michigan Attainable Housing Facilities Act and PILOT programs to incentivize property owners to offer affordable long-term rentals. I’ll streamline permitting, build public-private partnerships, and collaborate with townships to expand housing without sacrificing neighborhood character. 2. Safe, connected streets for all: As a homeowner, I’ve seen kids walk to school without sidewalks or lighting - it’s unacceptable. On the BATA Board and Complete Streets committee, I helped craft policies prioritizing pedestrian safety, bike lanes, ADA access, lighting, and reliable transit. Using my experience securing over $60 million in transit funding, I will finish sidewalks, expand trails, and strengthen equitable mobility infrastructure. 3. A strong, year‑round economy: Many local businesses struggle outside of summer. With experience in automotive tech and business consulting, I’ll use my skills to reduce regulatory barriers, diversify our economy beyond tourism, grow regional partnerships to foster business success and livable wages.

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I’ve spent 25 years supporting Traverse City’s schools, parks, nonprofits, and local government. I co-founded the nonprofit Preserve Hickory, leading a $5 million effort to improve Hickory Hills after a prior Commission voted to close it. As Chair of the Joint Rec Authority, I’ve helped steward more than 240 acres of public parkland, including Hickory Forest, Hickory Meadows, and Historic Barns Park. I co-chaired a school millage renewal that secured $100 million for TCAPS students, served on nonprofit boards including the Great Lakes Sports Commission and the Grand Traverse Ski Club, and coached more than 100 kids in track at Central Grade School. A graduate of the City Academy, I bring both experience and a deep understanding of local government operations. I’m running for City Commission because the decisions made by the next Commission will shape our community for generations. We face urgent challenges: housing that’s unaffordable for too many, childcare, infrastructure that hasn’t kept pace with growth, and the responsibility to protect what makes Traverse City special. My background and proven leadership uniquely qualify me to bring people together, build partnerships, and work across jurisdictions to drive real results.

First, strong, stable leadership is essential to local government. Selecting the next City Manager is a critical decision. The process must be open, transparent, and rooted in public trust. The new Commission must not only select the right person, but must also ensure the individual has the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed. Second, the new Commission must focus their deliberations on the priorities of City residents. With input from more than 1,500 engaged citizens, Traverse City’s first-ever Strategic Plan clearly outlines the community’s vision. The next step is disciplined implementation. That means aligning policy and budget decisions with the plan’s pillars while tracking measurable progress on housing affordability, infrastructure improvements, economic development, and climate resilience. Finally, the new Commission has an opportunity to reshape the culture of local government. I will work to foster a culture that is responsive to residents, transparent in decision-making, and committed to strengthening partnerships across the region. Rebuilding public trust through clear communication and meaningful engagement is essential to shaping a strong future for Traverse City and requires collaborative leadership.

I am running for city commission because I am committed to preserving the unique communities that define our city. Traverse City is more than just a beautiful place, it’s a network of neighborhoods filled with families, vibrant local businesses, and a spirit of community that sets us apart. I aim to support thoughtful development that reflects the needs and values of our residents and safeguard our natural resources. I also want to advocate for local businesses, encourage affordable housing options that do not degrade our city’s character, and promote community engagement at every level. As our city grows, I believe we must manage change in ways that best fit our citizens and protect the character of our city. We all want a Traverse City that remains welcoming, connected, and thriving.

As a small business owner and a public servant with over 11 years of planning commission experience I am ready to bring practical approaches, fiscal responsibility and collaboration to the city commission. Ensuring a safe, vibrant community for generations to come.

Regional Collaboration - I will work to build strong collaborative relationships with our regional government bodies. for a city of only 8sq miles we face major challenges often seen in much larger communities such as housing, homelessness, and a greater need to diversify and grow our local economy. Aligning our strategies and goals regionally is essential to finding sustainable solutions for these issues.

Preserving our character - I am dedicated to to preserving the character and nature of Traverse City. Our city is truly a wonderful place, and as word spreads, we are experiencing increased growth and change. It is vital that we implement creative zoning and thoughtful design standards to maintain the unique charm of Traverse City for generations to come.

Parks and Recreation - I will establish a comprehensive maintenance strategy for our parks and public spaces. Our community grounds are a treasures resource, and it is crucial that we give them the care and attention they need to remain beautiful, safe, and accessible for all.