Traverse City DDA Executive Director Harry Burkholder is targeting a June board vote on the TIF 97 extension plan, which would then go before voters on November 3, 2026. The April 13 joint session between the DDA board and city commissioners produced a clear directional signal: commissioners support extension, but at a reduced capture rate that returns more revenue to the city and other taxing jurisdictions than the current plan.

The current plan generates $4.8–5 million per year for services that most residents and visitors encounter daily: the Clean and Green maintenance team, trash and recycling collection, public restrooms, street lighting, holiday lights, the community police officer, and the Sarah Hardy Farmers Market. A 30-year extension at a 70/30 split would leave approximately $3.6 million annually for the DDA after core services, with roughly $2.3 million available for capital projects.

Commissioner Jackie Anderson summarized the political environment: "Voters effectively a year ago voted that they want a say." The 2024 charter amendment that required voter approval for TIF extensions was itself a signal from the electorate. The DDA's challenge is to frame the November question in terms that honor that signal — demonstrating that the district is asking for accountability, not just authorization.

TC Taxpayers for Justice is organized, has a website, and has published the November 3 date. Their campaign frames the extension as a commitment to 30 more years of tax diversion from general services.

Watch: The revenue split language in the June board vote. The difference between a 60/40 and 70/30 split is approximately $500,000 annually to the DDA — $15 million over the 30-year extension.

Source: 9and10News, March and April 2026; TC Taxpayers for Justice.