LWVLC March 2026 Forum Features Groundworks Leaders On Sustainable Growth

Community members are invited to attend a public forum on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at noon at the Leelanau County Government Center in Suttons Bay. The event, Sustainable Solutions in Locally Grown Food, Clean Energy, and Transportation, will feature three leaders from the Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities. Since 1995, Groundwork has empowered people who want to help build a better Michigan through innovative, locally based solutions that foster a clean environment, a strong economy, and a healthy community.  The Groundwork specialists will share updates on transformative initiatives for advancing transportation, food equity, and clean energy across northern Michigan.

Carolyn Ulstad, Transportation Program Manager, will provide the latest developments on the North+South Passenger Rail project. Carolyn has guided the project through the complex process of securing state and federal approvals and millions of dollars in funding for required studies. She has met with stakeholders in communities from Detroit and Ann Arbor to Clare and Kalkaska, gathering input and building regional support. Her presentation will outline the project’s progress and what lies ahead for this ambitious rail initiative.

Christina Barkel, Food Equity Specialist, will discuss Groundwork’s innovative regional food access system, which now delivers nutrient-rich, locally grown produce to 75 food pantries and meal sites. This nationally recognized model expands markets for local farms while ensuring families have access to fresh, health-giving food. Christina will also highlight the broader scope of Groundwork’s local food initiatives.

Lyla Hollis, Clean Energy Specialist, will share updates on Groundwork’s clean energy efforts, including the highly attended transnational Line 5 webinar and the Access MI Solar program, which has helped 80 families install home solar systems. She will also discuss work with local townships to implement Michigan’s new clean energy siting laws.

The forum is free and open to the public.  You may bring your lunch.

The League of Women Voters is a national, political organization that encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in their government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy.  The League is non-partisan and as an organization does not endorse or oppose candidates or political parties.  To learn more about the LWVLC go to https://www.lwvleelanau.org