Ann's Nest Clears Major Hurdle
Planning Commission Recommends Approval
Ann’s Nest Sit Map
A donor-funded property purchase means construction could begin soon after the West Traverse Township Board's final vote on June 9.
It's official: the West Traverse Township Planning Commission has recommended approval of Ann's Nest's special use permit, moving our vision for a residential community for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities one major step closer to reality.
The proposal now heads to the West Traverse Township Board for final consideration at a meeting on June 9. And in encouraging news, a donor has already stepped forward to fund the purchase of the six-acre wooded property on South State Road in Harbor Springs, meaning we'll be able to close on the land within two weeks of final approval.
What's planned
The development will include five homes, each housing four to six residents, for a total of 30 residents. The wooded six-acre site will also include an Activity Center designed to support daily programming, social connection, and family engagement.
Architect Nick Liebler of White & Liebler Architects is designing the homes and activity center to blend naturally with the surrounding landscape, while Dave Grossi of Site Planning has developed a landscaping plan featuring native trees and evergreen screening. Downward-directed lighting will help minimize any impact on neighboring homes.
Why it matters
"For years, families in Emmet and Charlevoix counties have watched their loved ones move far from home because local housing options simply don't exist," said Paul Matthews (Co-Founder of Ann's Nest). "We're working to change that reality by creating a place where individuals can remain close to family while living with dignity in a supportive community."
Ann's Nest Executive Director Mary Grace McCaskill echoed that commitment to the surrounding community: "Our commitment from day one has been to be good neighbors and create something that fits Harbor Springs. We want this to feel like a quiet residential neighborhood — a place where residents can build friendships, experience belonging, and remain closely connected to their families and the broader community."
The home designs draw inspiration from David's House Ministries, a Grand Rapids-area organization with more than 25 years of experience building homes for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The road ahead
Ann's Nest has launched a $5 million capital campaign to prepare the site, construct the first home, and build the Activity Center — and more than 250 donors have already stepped up to support that vision.
"This isn't just about building homes — it's about building hope," said Bob Vala (Co-Founder). "It's about telling families that their children with disabilities belong here, in this community, and that we're committed to making that a reality."
If the Township Board approves the recommendation on June 9, construction can begin as soon as funds are raised for site preparation and the first phase of building.
Want to help?
Reach Ann's Nest at 231-412-0042, by email at info@annsnest.org, or visit www.annsnest.org to learn more about getting involved.
