Imagine 60+ houses here instead of the beautiful landscape and wildlife….

Holly, MI - We moved here for its beautiful rural charm and the peace that the wide-open spaces offer. Like many, our young family was drawn to the tranquility and the sense of community that only a rural township can provide. The fields, the farms, and the serene environment are integral to why we chose this place as our home. But now, this lifestyle is under threat as there's a proposal to rezone agricultural land on Hickory Ridge Road and Rose Center Road for residential development. This change is not in the interest of our community; instead, it primarily benefits developers from Perry, MI, who have little concern for the special characteristics of our township.

Rezoning this land would have initiate the demise of the very essence of Rose Township. Once the rezoning kicks in, sprawling agricultural landscapes will transform into dense residential areas, disrupting wildlife, increasing traffic, straining already stressed public services, and diminishing our quality of life. The increased residential development could also lead to higher taxes in the long term for infrastructure expansion and maintenance without a significant boost to our local economy.

Data from the American Farmland Trust indicates that Michigan has lost more than 650,000 acres of farmland in recent decades to development. This trend is detrimental not only to our local environment but also to the broader state economy.

Instead of rezoning, efforts should be channeled into sustainable agricultural practices and other rural development strategies that support and preserve farming. We can protect our rural heritage while promoting economic growth by focusing on agri-tourism and local farmer's markets. This can create jobs, stimulate the local economy, and foster community cohesion without sacrificing our land to unnecessary development.

We need your help to make sure the needs of our community are prioritized over outside developers. Protecting our farmlands is crucial for maintaining the character and the ecological health of our community.

Please sign this petition to urge the Rose Township authorities to keep the Hickory Ridge Road and Rose Center Road lands zoned for agriculture. Together, we can preserve the unique rural identity that makes Holly, MI, a special place to call home.