Our November theme is “A Grand Place to Gather.” Fall in Grand Traverse County is pure magic — a season painted in golds, reds and orange hues that turn every drive and trail into a postcard. It’s a grand time to gather — around bonfires, at pumpkin patches or sharing a meal made from Michigan’s finest flavors. Here, Autumn isn’t just a season; it’s a celebration of community, color and connection.
New 911 Emergency Operations Center
Moving forward with a new Emergency Operations and Communications Center marks an important step toward a safer, more connected community. The new facility will provide advanced technology, improved infrastructure and a modern workspace designed to support first responders as they handle emergencies efficiently and effectively. From faster response times to more reliable communication systems, this investment strengthens our ability to protect lives and property throughout the region.
Beyond the technology, the new center represents a commitment to the people behind the calls — the dedicated dispatchers who serve as the first voice of help in times of crisis. By giving them the tools, training and environment they deserve, we’re ensuring that residents and visitors alike receive the highest level of emergency service possible. This is about more than a building — it’s about building trust, safety, and resilience for everyone in our community.
Learn more about Project Alpha moving forward here.
Camp Greilick
Grand Traverse County Parks and Recreation is excited to announce plans to breathe new life into a beloved piece of local history. The former Boy Scout Camp Greilick, which hasn’t welcomed scouts since 2016, is set to be transformed into a public park.
With approval from the East Bay Township Planning Commission, the county is moving forward to open roughly 200 acres of this scenic property for everyone to enjoy. “Nothing would make us happier than creating a thriving hub of outdoor recreation for youth and adults alike,” said John Chase, Grand Traverse County Parks and Facilities Director.
With careful planning, the new park promises to be a welcoming place for families, youth programs, and community members to enjoy the outdoors while preserving the spirit of this treasured property.
Learn more about the project here.
Commitment to Building a New Jail
Grand Traverse County is planning a new Justice Facility Complex to help create meaningful, long-term improvements in how we deliver criminal justice services in our community. To accomplish this, we need involvement from organizations and individuals with justice-sector related expertise.
If you are interested in being a part of the Justice Facility Advisory Committee, please submit an application here.
Veterans Affairs: Honoring All Who Have Served!
This Veterans Day, we honor and thank the brave men and women of Grand Traverse County who have served our country with courage, dedication and sacrifice. Your commitment to protecting our freedoms and way of life does not go unnoticed, and our community is deeply grateful for your service. Today, we celebrate you — our veterans — and the countless contributions you’ve made to keep our nation safe and strong. Thank you for your unwavering dedication and for inspiring all of us with your courage and resilience.
Winter Preparedness and Holiday Safety Tips
Winter in Northern Michigan is beautiful — and unpredictable. As the snow flies and temperatures drop, it’s essential to prepare early to stay safe and comfortable. Make sure your home is winter-ready by checking your heating system, sealing windows and doors, and keeping an emergency kit stocked with flashlights, blankets, batteries and nonperishable food. If you’re traveling, equip your vehicle with snow tires, an ice scraper, jumper cables and a first aid kit. Always check the weather before heading out, and let someone know your route when conditions are icy or visibility is low. Preparation now means peace of mind when storms roll in.
The holiday season also brings joy — and a few extra safety reminders. Keep live Christmas trees well-watered and away from heat sources to prevent fires, and check lights and cords for fraying before hanging them. Never leave candles unattended and always use caution when cooking large holiday meals. If you’re hosting guests, clear walkways of snow and ice to prevent slips and make sure carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. Whether you’re cozying up at home or celebrating with loved ones, a little extra care can help ensure your holidays are merry, bright and safe all season long.
Recess Event on October 1:
Recess is an afterwork networking event for business professionals in Grand Traverse County. Recess 2025 is brought to you by us. Our theme this year is “Grand Traverse County: A grand place to live, work and play.” At each Recess we will be delivering Public Service Announcements relevant to what’s going on in the county that month.
In November our mini theme is “A Grand Place to Gather”. Mike Roof will speak on Veterans affairs and Board member Lauren Flynn will speak on county highlights from the year.
Recess will take place on Friday, November 7 from 5-7 PM at the Traverse City Curling Club.
Learn more here.