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City renews three‑year economic development contract with Traverse Connect
Summary
The commission approved a three‑year agreement with Traverse Connect to provide economic development services, beginning May 1, 2025, for $52,500 for year one with 3% annual increases in later renewals; the hire will focus on business attraction, site redevelopment, regional convening and ongoing project reporting.
The City Commission approved a three‑year agreement with Traverse Connect to provide economic development services for the city, starting May 1, 2025. The contract authorizes $52,500 for the first year with a 3% increase in each of the two subsequent annual renewals. Funding will come from the economic development fund.
Traverse Connect CEO Warren Kahl summarized the organization’s ongoing and potential services, saying the work includes continuing business attraction and expansion support, site redevelopment activities, national outreach for trade and industry events, and regular reporting to city leadership. He told the commission that specific project work varies from year to year as business inquiries and opportunities arise.
Commissioners asked for more detail on deliverables and timing. Commissioner Jackie Stanley, among others, praised the added scope page in the proposal but urged further integration with the city’s strategic planning process and clearer metrics for reporting. City Manager Liz clarified that Traverse Connect had provided timely operational help in previous instances, such as advising on funding pathways and advocacy activities in Lansing.
Commissioner Heather Shaw moved to waive competitive bidding and to authorize the mayor and city clerk to execute the three‑year agreement, with the city manager and city attorney approving substance and form. The motion passed; Commissioner Anderson voted no citing concerns about the timing relative to the city’s pending strategic plan and the absence of a formal RFP process.
The contract will position Traverse Connect as a regional convener for economic development initiatives and a local contact for business recruitment, redevelopment site help and outreach projects such as mobility and outdoor technology showcases. Commissioners asked staff to track deliverables and recommended regular briefings to the commission so city goals from the strategic plan can guide annual work plans under the contract.
