On this episode of The Conversation, Christal Frost sits down with Harry Burkholder, executive director of the Traverse City Downtown Development Authority, for an in-depth look at one of the most consequential questions facing Traverse City voters this November: the future of downtown's TIF 97 funding plan.

The Conversation is brought to you by TVC Cherry Capital Airport - Your Northern Michigan Connection.

With voters set to decide on the proposed Infrastructure First plan, Harry breaks down how Tax Increment Financing works, how it helped transform downtown Traverse City over the past 30 years, and what would change under the proposed 20-year extension.

The conversation tackles the biggest questions surrounding the proposal, including competing estimates of its financial impact, concerns about funding for other public services, the controversy over heated sidewalks and parking decks, and what happens if voters reject the extension. Harry also addresses some common misconceptions about TIF funding and explains how the revised proposal would share revenue with other taxing entities.

Whether you're leaning yes, leaning no, or still trying to make sense of it all, this episode offers a closer look at the history, financial realities, and competing priorities behind a decision that could shape downtown Traverse City for decades to come.

New rules, major roadwork, and a river with complicated challenges ahead.

Currently is brought to you by Omnivet, emergency vet care when you need it most, locally owned and conveniently located in Traverse City.

Christal and Beth Milligan (Traverse City Ticker) break down a contentious City Commission vote on prowling and trespassing ordinances, a new attainable housing district, and a proposed overhaul of several downtown streets. Plus, a look at efforts to improve the Lower Boardman River and the constraints shaping what's possible.

Currently is a Compass Local podcast, produced by Pancake Boy Productions.

Road construction, major infrastructure plans, and downtown sidewalk disruptions take center stage this week.

Currently is brought to you by Omnivet, emergency vet care when you need it most, locally owned and conveniently located in Traverse City.

Christal and Beth Milligan (Traverse City Ticker) discuss ongoing construction projects across Grand Traverse County, including what's next for Bluff Road, Hammond Road, and Three Mile Road. They also explore an ambitious proposal seeking more than $47 million in federal funding to replace four Boardman River crossings following this spring's devastating flooding, including a potentially significant overhaul of the South Airport Road crossing near Logan's Landing.

Plus, with construction projects closing sidewalks throughout downtown Traverse City, how are those closures approved, and what do they mean for pedestrian safety and accessibility?

Currently is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.

A community mourns, proposed public safety rules spark debate, and a ski hill scrambles to prepare for winter.

Currently is brought to you by Omnivet, emergency vet care when you need it most, locally owned and conveniently located in Traverse City.

Christal and Beth Milligan (Traverse City Ticker) discuss the loss of a TC Central student following a crash on Old Mission Peninsula, proposed prowling and trespassing ordinances in Traverse City, and a change of plans at Hickory Hills ahead of ski season. Plus, updates on Shawn Winter's lawsuit and road projects on South Airport, Beitner, and Hammond, along with a look at what's happening around town.

Currently is a Compass Local podcast, produced by Pancake Boy Productions.

How did a game played on ice become one of Traverse City's most welcoming communities?

The Conversation is brought to you by TVC Cherry Capital Airport - Your Northern Michigan Connection.

On this episode of The Conversation, Christal is joined by Jodie Gobler of the Traverse City Curling Club to unpack a sport that is far more than 42-pound stones and frantic sweeping. Jodie explains the basics of the game, from the strategy behind a well-placed shot to the science of sweeping, and why curlers call it chess on ice. They also explore the club's culture of sportsmanship, friendship, and post-game "broom stacking," plus the dedicated Garfield Avenue facility that has helped the club grow to more than 300 members.

Jodie also shares how the Traverse City Curling Club is opening its 2026-27 season beginning Sunday, October 11, with a full week of ways to get involved, including a free Juniors Open House, public open house, Try Curling classes, Intro to League Play, and the Mighty Ducks Adaptive Curling Open House. Whether you are competitive, curling-curious, or simply looking for a new way to connect during a Northern Michigan winter, learn more at tccurling.org.

Currently: The Conversation is a Compass Local podcast, produced by Pancake Boy Productions.

Major improvements could be coming to several TCAPS schools, the South Airport Road project is creating tensions at the Road Commission, and a wave of new restaurants and retailers is opening around Traverse City.

Support for Currently comes from West Shore Bank, committed to the well-being of our community.

Christal and Beth Milligan (Traverse City Ticker) discuss the potential focus of TCAPS' next bond proposal, including Oak Park and Glenn Loomis. They also break down the disagreement over the South Airport Road contract and communications between the Road Commission and local officials. Plus, Beth shares the latest restaurant and retail news, from Beyond Juicery to new boutiques and other businesses opening their doors around town.

Currently is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.

Traverse City has a new planning director, Warehouse MRKT has been sold, public art projects are on the way around town, and TC State Park is reopening for fall camping.

Support for Currently comes from West Shore Bank, committed to the well-being of our community.

Beth Milligan joins Christal Frost to break down what Claire Karner brings to the city's planning department, what a building sale could mean for Warehouse MRKT's current tenants, and where some familiar businesses are headed next. They also discuss the future of the Clinch Park tunnel, new art installations planned near Boardman Lake, and the return of the Traverse City Mural Festival. Plus, find out when campers can once again reserve a site at the State Park this fall.

Currently is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.

Major infrastructure decisions are taking shape across northern Michigan.

Support for Currently comes from West Shore Bank, committed to the well-being of our community.

Christal and Beth Milligan (Traverse City Ticker) discuss the legal questions surrounding a proposed solar project and what drivers can expect as plans move forward for South Airport Road.

Plus, Beth highlights two stories from the Northern Express: a look at how Kalkaska Public Schools have evolved over the years and the French-inspired food and atmosphere earning Chez Amie rave reviews in Traverse City.

Currently is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.