Title: In Harbor Springs, We Trust

Date: Compiled 10.21.24

Introduction:
On October 17, 2024, just 19 days before the upcoming election, the community of Harbor Springs uncovered troubling information about the “VoteNO” campaign against proposed zoning changes. It was revealed that the campaign was led not by local citizens, as claimed, but by a professional political operative with ties to current development efforts. This disclosure raised significant concerns about transparency, trust, and the motivations behind community campaigns.

Key Points:

1. Discovery of Manipulation:
   • The “VoteNO” campaign presented itself as a grassroots effort, claiming to represent local interests. However, investigation through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request revealed a professional political operative’s involvement, leading to questions about the authenticity of the campaign’s messaging.
2. Campaign Messaging:
   • The campaign’s slogan was “Trust your Neighbors.” This slogan became ironic as residents realized they had been misled about the origins and intentions of the campaign.
3. Historical Context:
   • Since the hiring of the new City Manager in 2019, the community has engaged in various planning initiatives. The 2022 Public Participation Plan aimed at enhancing community involvement, yet many residents felt their concerns regarding zoning changes were not addressed adequately.
4. Concerns About Zoning Changes:
   • Many residents voiced fears that proposed zoning changes could lead to increased density and overdevelopment, threatening the unique character of Harbor Springs.
   • A petition with over 600 signatures was submitted in protest of the zoning code, highlighting widespread opposition among property owners.
5. Process and Due Process Issues:
   • Residents trusted that the city would notify them of upcoming changes through tax bills and that their voices would be heard in city meetings. However, they faced obstacles in addressing their concerns directly to city officials.

1. Referendum and Election Dynamics:
   • A referendum was initiated to allow voters to decide on the zoning code, but not all council members supported placing it on the ballot. This raised concerns about the government’s responsiveness to community input.
2. Legal and Ethical Implications:
   • The situation poses potential legal issues, such as the adequacy of public notice and whether due process was followed in the decision-making process regarding zoning changes. Residents argue that property rights must be respected and that significant changes should involve clear communication and engagement with affected parties.
3. Current Community Sentiment:
   • Despite the challenges faced, the residents of Harbor Springs continue to trust their community and the voters. However, there is skepticism towards external developers and political entities that may not prioritize local interests.

Conclusion:
The situation in Harbor Springs highlights essential themes of trust, community engagement, and the need for transparency in local governance. As the November 5 election approaches, it is crucial for voters to be informed about the implications of zoning changes and the motivations behind various campaigns. Residents are encouraged to advocate for their interests and ensure that their voices are heard in the democratic process.

Legal Considerations:

• Transparency and Accountability: Local governments must ensure that community campaigns are transparent and that any political operatives involved are disclosed.
• Due Process: The community must be informed of changes that impact property rights and zoning, ensuring that all voices are considered in planning decisions.
• Public Engagement: Governments should facilitate genuine public participation, allowing residents to express concerns and influence decision-making processes.

This summary encapsulates the key points and underlying issues in the Harbor Springs community regarding the recent developments in zoning changes and the surrounding political activities.