TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. – Laura Ness has officially filed to run for a seat on the Traverse City Commission in the November 4 election. A 25-year resident and community advocate, Ness is best known for her leadership in improving city parks, championing public-private partnerships, and serving on a wide range of boards and commissions.

“Traverse City is at a crossroads. We need thoughtful leadership that protects what makes this place special while addressing the real challenges ahead—like housing, climate resilience, and preserving our community character,” Ness said. “I’m running because I believe in collaborative problem-solving, transparent decision-making, and always putting the community—and the City of Traverse City—first.”

Ness currently serves as Chair of the City of Traverse City and Garfield Township Recreational Authority, where she helped lead the acquisition of 75 acres of new parkland and oversaw a $5 million renovation project at Historic Barns Park. She is also Chair of the Hickory Hills Advisory Committee and President and Co-Founder of Preserve Hickory, a nonprofit that helped launch a $5 million revitalization of Hickory Hills through a successful public-private campaign. Her contributions were recognized by the City with a Mayoral Proclamation and Key to the City.

Beyond parks, Ness has provided leadership to many community organizations, including the Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park, Traverse City Area Public Schools, the Great Lakes Sports Commission, Citizens for Students Millage Campaign, and 100 Women Who Care. She is a past President of the Grand Traverse Ski Club and a 2022 inductee into its Hall of Fame. A recent graduate of the City Academy, she brings a deep understanding of local government operations and a strong track record of civic engagement.

As a candidate, Ness will focus on strengthening community trust, ensuring thoughtful growth, investing in public infrastructure, and supporting housing solutions that reflect Traverse City’s values. She also believes in fostering a respectful, mission-driven culture within city government—one that honors the work of public employees and engages citizens as partners in progress.