LAWRENCE, MICHIGAN
Lawrence Housing Committee
The Lawrence Housing Committee was formed in January 2022 by Matthew Sanborn and formally recognized by the Lawrence Township Planning Commission in February 2022. It is a joint, open committee between Lawrence Township and the Village of Lawrence, established to support efforts that expand and improve the local housing stock.
Purpose and Role
The Lawrence Housing Committee serves in an advisory capacity. Its purpose is to:
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Share housing-related information and resources with township and village planners
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Provide updates and insights on local housing needs, availability, and development trends
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Support future housing initiatives without direct involvement in planning approvals or funding decisions
The committee also connects with statewide and regional housing resources, including the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) and its Get Housing Ready Guide, which provides practical strategies to help communities attract housing development and reduce barriers.
The Housing Committee does not vote on housing projects or control funding decisions. Instead, it functions as a collaborative body that gathers data, engages stakeholders, and provides input and recommendations to the Township Board, Planning Commission, and the public.
Who Can Participate?
The Housing Committee is open to the public, with targeted participation from:
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Building, community, and economic development staff
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Property owners and real estate professionals
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Township and village supervisors or administrators
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Members of governing bodies and school systems
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Local business owners and neighborhood leaders
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Representatives from:
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Downtown Development Authority (DDA)
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Corridor Improvement Authority (CIA)
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Land Bank Authority
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Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
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Meetings
Meetings are scheduled as needed and take place at:
Lawrence Township Hall
411 N. Paw Paw Street
Lawrence, MI 49064
Meeting notices are posted in accordance with the Michigan Open Meetings Act.
Contact Information
For more information about the Lawrence Housing Committee or to express interest in participating:
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Email:
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Phone: (269) 674-4255
LAWRENCE TOWNSHIP
411 N Paw Paw St
P.O. Box 445
Lawrence, MI 49064
Office Phone: 269-674-4255
Click here for a map view.
Information from the Lawrence Township Board of Directors
On January 15, 2026, the Lawrence Township Board of Directors approved the posting of the following letter to provide residents with background and context regarding the Van Buren District Library (VBDL) building located in Lawrence Township.
This letter outlines the historical agreements related to the building, how circumstances have changed over time, and the Board’s responsibility to evaluate long-term financial obligations on behalf of Lawrence Township taxpayers.
The Board remains committed to transparency, fiscal responsibility, and open, good-faith communication as discussions continue.
Adobe Acrobat document [90.5 KB]
Lawrence Senior Services 2026 Calendar
Planning a Brush or Burn Pile Cleanup?
Be sure to contact the Fire Department at 269-674-8833 before you burn.
Let’s keep our community safe—always follow local fire safety regulations.
New Village Playground Project
Lawrence Joint Parks and Recreation is planning a vibrant, inclusive playground in the Village of Lawrence—a joyful space for children and families to gather and play. A $302,000 fundraising campaign is underway to help secure a DNR matching grant for construction.
Interested in supporting the project?
View the Sponsorship Package or contact the Village for
more information.
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