# Crowther for State Representative – District 90 > Rachel Crowther is a small business owner, community leader, and elected official with deep roots in the Rockford area and Courtland Township. As a current Courtland Township Trustee and longtime community volunteer, she has built a record of thoughtful leadership grounded in transparency, accountability, and collaboration. Her service with the Rockford Area Community Foundation, Rockford’s Got Talent fundraiser, the Courtland Township Parks Committee, Experience Grand Rapids, and the Kent County Lodging Association, along with being named the 2016 Joe Tomaselli Hotelier of the Year, reflects a lifelong commitment to strengthening local economies and building vibrant communities. --- ## Home URL: https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com ###### Community. Integrity. Compassion. # Your Voice. Your Values. Your Representative. **Supporting a**[statewide data center moratorium](/1324a795-99e3-4836-b4ff-fbd1b9efd1bf) **to protect local communities and give residents a real voice.** **Getting** **money out of politics** **and power back to the people.** **Fighting for a** **transparent government** **that puts people first.** Watch Now ##### The Momrade interview with Rachel Crowther Why she’s running, why she isn’t taking any corporate PAC money, and how she’ll work for the people and priorities of House District 90. ###### Share Now ## Real-World Experience Community Focused Leadership *As your next State Representative for District 90, I am* *committed* *to working hard on the issues that impact our families, small businesses, farms, schools, seniors, and local communities while ensuring* *every voice* *is heard and represented in Lansing. Government should be* *of* *the* *people**, by* *the* *people**, and* *for the* *people**.* *District 90 deserves a representative who listens, leads with integrity, and works every day to deliver real results for the* *people* *who call this community home.* **I believe it's time to get money out of politics and return government to the people it was meant to serve.** Where I Stand Introductory photo ###### Make Your Voice Count ## Powered by grassroots support. I work for YOU! **No corporate PAC money.** **No billionaire family money.** I believe it's time to get money out of politics and return government to the people it was meant to serve. Your contribution helps us engage more people in the conversation. Other ## Showing up, staying connected, and putting our community and YOU first. Join Us Community First Share Now --- ## About URL: https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/about ###### Add your eyebrow here # About the Candidate Add your description here Watch Now ###### Meet Your Neighbor ## Leadership • Collaboration • Community **Rachel Crowther is a local small business owner, community leader, and elected official with deep roots in the Rockford area and Courtland Township.** As a current Courtland Township Trustee and longtime community volunteer, Rachel has built a record of thoughtful leadership grounded in transparency, accountability, and collaboration. Her service with the Rockford Area Community Foundation, Rockford’s Got Talent fundraiser, the Courtland Township Parks Committee, Experience Grand Rapids, and the Kent County Lodging Association, along with being named the 2016 Joe Tomaselli Hotelier of the Year, reflects a lifelong commitment to strengthening local economies and building vibrant communities. **With deep roots in the community, Rachel believes in bringing people together to build a strong future for everyone.** ## Support local leadership that puts every voice at the table. Join Us photo (generic) ###### ## In Our Community ## Make a plan to vote! November 3rd, 2026 ###### Election Day #### November 3rd ###### Early In-Person Voting #### October 24th - November 1st ###### Mail-in Voting #### Request by October 30th --- ## Issues URL: https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/MovingOurCommunityForwardTogether ###### Add your eyebrow here # Issues Add your description here Watch Now #### Make life more affordable #### Strengthen Our Communities #### Work for you, not special interests **checkMark** --- ## Data Centers URL: https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/datacenters ###### Community. Integrity. Compassion. # New Page **Supporting a** **statewide data center moratorium** **to protect local communities and give residents a real voice.** **Getting** **money out of politics** **and power back to the people.** **Fighting for a** **transparent government** **that puts people first.** Watch Now ###### I’m Taking a Stand Where Does My Opponent Stand? ###### Share Now ## My Record on Data Centers **October 8,2025** Rachel mentioned an article a resident shared with her about Data Center water usage to the Courtland Township Board and she shared that wil the board**.** **December 10, 2025** Rachel once again mentioned during board comments to keep data centers on the township radar. **March 17,2026** Data Centers appeared on the Courtland Township Planning Commission agenda. Rachel attended the meeting as a resident and spoke in favor of a moratorium. **April 21, 2026** Courtland Planning Commission reviewed a draft 12-month moratorium on data centers in Courtland Township. **June 8, 2026** Rachel released the first in a series of press releases supporting a statewide data center moratorium. Published in the [Lowell First Look.](https://lowellsfirstlook.com/mi-house-district-90-state-representative-candidate-rachel-crowther-calls-for-stronger-oversight-of-data-centers/) **June 10, 2026** Full Courtland Township Board voted unanimously to pass a 12-month township mortorium on data centers to write a strong ordinance to protect the community. **June 23, 2026** Rachel attended the bi-partisan No Data Center Rally in Lansing. [Read More](https://www.mlive.com/politics/2026/06/lawmakers-michigan-activists-rally-at-capitol-for-statewide-data-center-moratorium.html) **June 24, 2026** Rachel attended and spoke at the Solon Township public hearing about Draft Five of Solon Township’s proposed data center zoning ordinance. **July 13, 2026** Rachel attended and spoke at the Solon Township Board meeting in support of extending the moratorium in the township. **August 26,2026** Rachel attended and spoke at the Solon Township Planning Commission meeting in opposition of the proposed data center. **September 8, 2026** Spoke at the Algoma Township Board Meeting in support of stricter zoning language and an extension of a moratorium that has expired. **September 15,2026** Spoke at the Algoma Township Planning Commission Meeting in support of stricter zoning language and an extension of a moratorium. **To read more about Rachel's stance on a statewide 12-month moratorium on Data Centers,** [CLICK HERE.](/b515e067-daf8-4b94-b80c-1b86100408bf#block-e84467e3-47fd-4284-913f-f1bacdc5afa0) --- ## In the News URL: https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/in-the-news ###### Community. Integrity. Compassion. # In the News Rachel Crowther has secured the Democratic nomination for Michigan's 90th House District and is advancing to the November general election. As one of the most competitive legislative races in West Michigan, Rachel is focused on bringing people-first leadership to Lansing through practical solutions, transparency, and a commitment to putting communities before special interests. Watch Now ## Latest Campaign News Read more NEWS ARTICLE PRESS RELEASE --- ## Events URL: https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/events ###### Add your eyebrow here # Events Add your description here Watch Now ###### Join the Conversation ## All Are Welcome Building Community **Together** Show less Show more Past Events Virtual Event Multiple Times Show more dates Show more times Show fewer dates Show fewer times There are no upcoming events. RSVP Taco Talks Lowell Pride Festival -GRRD Grattan Township Pancake Breakfast Politics and Pints Sparta Parade Memorial Day Ruck ###### Be Part of the Conversation ## Local Events & Meetups Show less Show more Past Events Virtual Event Multiple Times Show more dates Show more times Show fewer dates Show fewer times There are no upcoming events. RSVP --- ## Endorsements URL: https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/endorsements ###### Add your eyebrow here # Endorsements Add your description here Watch Now ###### Organizations Logo Logo Logo Logo Logo Rachel is proud to have the support of elected officials, community leaders, advocates, and neighbors across Kent County who believe in building community first, accountable government. #### Rev. Nathan Dannison ###### Senior Minister, Fountain Street Church #### Neil Blakeslee ###### Former City of Rockford Mayor and civic leader in the Rockford Community Neil Blakeslee #### Dale Dalman ###### Retired missionary and pastor with the Evangelical Covenant Church, and Mayor Pro Tem of the City of Rockford #### Jose Rodriguez ###### President Grand Rapids School Board, Community Organizer #### Abbie Groff-Blaszak ###### East Grand Rapids City Commissioner #### Ed Ross ###### Former Mayor City of Rockford and community leader Ed Ross #### Tricia Anderson ###### Planning Commissioner City of Rockford #### Charles Baker ###### City of Rockford Council Member, Community Advocate Charles Baker #### Mary Ann Andersen ###### Former Courtland Township Trustee, Community advocate #### Ivan Diaz ###### Former Kent County Commissioner and community organizer Ivan Diaz #### Robert S. Womack ###### Kent County Commissioner #### Ron Howell ###### City of Cedar Springs Council Member, Former Cedar Springs City Manager #### Kris Pachla ###### Kent County Commissioner Photo of ##### Elected Officials - **Rev. Nathan Dannison**, Senior Minister, Fountain Street Church - **Neil Blakeslee,** Former City of Rockford Mayor, Civic Leader - **Ivan Diaz,** Former Kent County Commissioner, Community Organizer - **Ed Ross,** Former Mayor of Rockford, Community Leader - **Charles Baker,** City Council Member, Community Advocate - **Mary Ann Andersen**, Former Courtland Township Trustee, Community advocate. - **Jose Rodriguez,** President Grand Rapids School Board, Community Organizer - **Dale Dalman,** Retired missionary and pastor with the Evangelical Covenant Church, and Mayor Pro Tem of the City of Rockford - **Robert S. Womack,** Kent County Commissioner - **Ron Howell,** City of Cedar Springs Council Member, Former Cedar Springs City Manager - **Kris Pachla,** Kent County Commissioner - **Abbie Groff-Blaszak,** East Grand Rapids City Commissioner - **Tricia Anderson,**Planning Commissioner City of Rockford ##### Organizations - **MEA,** Support for public school funding, student safety, and academic resources. - **Organize for Peace**, Supporting candidates who stand up for democracy, human rights, and accountability—while building real political power through grassroots organizing. - **Iron Workers Local Union No. 25,** Provide our contractors with the best trained, highly skilled, safe, and productive iron workers possible. - **Teamsters Local 406,** Fighting for better wages, benefits, and working conditions for workers in a wide range of industries. - **MI List****,** Pro-choice Democratic women - **Our Revolution,** Independent organization to take on corporate power, elect progressives, and fight for a government that works for all of us, not the billionaire class. - **MI Rural PAC**, Rural Democratic candidates - **MDP Rural Caucus**, A voice for rural communities to communicate concerns and needs to the MDP. - **Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan**, Sexual and Reproductive Health Champion, Choice is Freedom! - **Progressive Women's Alliance of West Michigan PAC**, Work to increase women’s political leadership - **Michigan Democratic Party Progressive Caucus,** Promote progressive​ activities within the Democratic Party, and progressive candidates at all levels of government. - **2026 Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate,** Advocates for gun violence prevention and is committed to governing with gun safety in mind. - **2026 Mental Health Candidate,** The candidate is committed to supporting policies that expand access to mental health care, improve crisis response, strengthen youth mental health services, and build a stronger mental health system for all. --- ## Transparency URL: https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/transparencycampaignfinance ###### Community. Integrity. Compassion. # Transparency Stronger communities start with us. Watch Now ###### I believe public service starts with trust. ###### Share Now **Total Raised to Date** **$31,225.40 ******10/5/26* **ActBlue Fundraising App-** Grassroots individual donors, no corporate money. **$13,660.40 ******10/5/26* **184 individual donors, average donation $80.00** **Kent County Democratic Party -** Standard, grassroots local political party, not a corporate PAC or dark money PAC. **$12,250.00 check** **Michigan List-** An organization dedicated to recruiting, training, and funding pro-choice Democratic women running for public office across Michigan. Not a dark money or corporate PAC. **$250.00 check** **MI Rural PAC**- Recruits, vets, and financially supports Democratic candidates running for public office in rural areas of Michigan. Not a dark money or corporate PAC. **$500.00 check** **Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan** Endorses candidates who champion sexual and reproductive health. Relies primarily on grassroots supporters. **$100.00 check** **Progressive Women's Alliance of West Michigan PAC -**Endorses and promotes the election of candidates and the advocacy of progressive values. **$500.00 check** **Second Congressional District Democratic Party** Stands for the unique needs, challenges, and experiences of our rural hard working communities. **$175.00 check** --- ## Volunteer URL: https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/volunteer ###### Add your eyebrow here # Volunteer Add your description here Watch Now ###### Get Involved --- ## Campaign Resources URL: https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/CampaignResources ###### Add your eyebrow here # News Add your description here Watch Now ##### Find your polling place ##### Candidates & Proposals ##### Register to vote ##### North East Kent Dems ## Campaign Resources Everything you need in one place to register, find your polling location, and stay informed so you’re ready to vote with confidence. ## Map of House District 90 House District 90 Map Map of House District 90 HD90 is a vibrant and diverse community of 92,912 people spanning 294.4 square miles, from rural landscapes to growing neighborhoods and small-town downtowns. It represents families, farmers, small business owners, seniors, and young people, not a political party, but people. **This district belongs to everyone who calls it home.** When we focus on what unites us instead of what divides us, we remember that together we rise — as one community, working red, blue, and every shade in between toward a stronger future. --- ## Contact URL: https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/contact ###### Add your eyebrow here # Contact Add your description here Watch Now ###### Join the Community Conversation ## Looking forward to connecting with you soon ## Serving Our Community First --- ## Issues: Public Education URL: https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/issues/prioritize-public-education-youth-success ###### Strengthen Our Communities ### Prioritizing Public Education & Youth Success - Strengthen public schools - Focus on literacy development - Support student mental health - Provide universal free school meals - Ensure every child has the resources they need to succeed Michigan has a complex education system shaped by an aging workforce and a housing shortage, which affects its ability to attract young families to communities. Michigan continues to struggle with academic achievement, including how to financially support rural and under-resourced districts. I support efforts to codify the 15-year weighted funding formula, ensuring consistent more predictable funding. Lock in the School Aid funding for K-12 schools. I support a mandatory statewide homeschool registry for districts that are allowing homeschool students to enroll in public school classes and or play sports. Tracking how the next generation is being educated can help drive future district decisions on education and how to better support the overall safety and needs of our community. I believe in sitting down with organizations like the Home School Legal Defense Association to ensure that all efforts support every child in Michigan. Families choosing either public or private education are doing what they believe is best for their children. Legislators willing to work in a bipartisan manner to address the economic importance of strong public schools, while also respecting families who choose homeschooling, will be essential in navigating and improving Michigan’s K-12 education system. Another important issue is how we support workforce training in our more rural communities. Not every student will pursue a traditional four-year college degree, and we must better prepare students for careers that can support them after high school. This includes expanding trade programs, internships and apprenticeships. Providing new funding mechanisms or partnerships taught the state to support the needs of our modern workforce. Electing representatives who believe in public education and are committed to providing safe learning environments in communities to prepare the next generation of leaders is key. I will listen to the needs of the community and drive conversations to benefit the communities of District 90. A voice for all families, caregivers, students, parents, and educators because that’s what good local government should do. Michigan has a complex education system impacted by an aging workforce and a housing shortage, contributing to attracting young families to communities. Michigan continues to struggle with academic achievement, including how to financially support rural and under-resourced districts. I support efforts to codify the 15-year weighted funding formula ensuring consistent more predictable funding. Lock in the School Aid funding for K-12 schools. Another important issue is how we support workforce training in our more rural communities. Michigan has a complex education system impacted by an aging workforce and a housing shortage, contributing to attracting young families to communities. Michigan continues to struggle with academic achievement including how to financially support rural and under-resourced districts. --- ## Issues: Healthcare URL: https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/issues/expand-accessible-healthcare-mental-health-services ###### Make Life More Affordable ## **Expand Accessible Healthcare & Mental Health Services ** - Access to care for families, seniors, and veterans - Strengthen mental health services - Provide affordable access to healthcare As the co-owner of a fitness and yoga studio, I’ve spent years supporting people while they build healthier lives through movement and community. I believe healthcare should be affordable, accessible, and focused on patients instead of corporate profits. As a current Courtland Township Trustee, I’ve worked to strengthen that foundation locally, supporting parks, recreation, and public spaces that give families places to move and gather. I believe the [MiCare Ac](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-HB-4407)t raises important questions about how we guarantee healthcare as a public good. As your State Representative, I would work with healthcare providers, patients, businesses, and my colleagues in both parties to explore how Michigan can build a system that provides universal access while protecting quality and supporting local hospitals. In Lansing, I'll fight to put people before corporate profits, strengthen our local healthcare system, and ensure every family has the opportunity to live a healthier life. I'll focus on getting things done. That means expanding access to local healthcare by investing in community health centers, rural healthcare, and mental health services so every Michigander can get care closer to home. That means working across party lines to find sensible solutions to solve food insecurity, mental health access. One way to lower healthcare costs is by supporting [SB 3/HB 4544](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-HB-4544) to establish a Prescription Drug Affordability Board and [SB 973–977](https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2026-SB-0973) to create a Michigan-based insurance marketplace with a reinsurance program that could reduce premiums by 10–15%. And supporting our healthcare workforce by backing [HB 5455](https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2026-HB-5455), expanding training opportunities, and making it easier for qualified doctors, nurses, therapists, and behavioral health professionals to serve Michigan communities. Too often, politicians tell us healthcare is solely an individual responsibility while insurance companies and pharmaceutical corporations continue to report record profits. Until our federally elected officials start making decisions that support the people over corporations, I will fight to ensure Michigan is doing everything in our power to lower costs for Michiganders. That means investing in prevention, mental health, clean water, education, parks and recreation, and local economies that give families stability and dignity. As your State Representative, I would work with healthcare providers, patients, businesses, and my colleagues in both parties to explore how Michigan can build a system that provides universal access while protecting quality and supporting local hospitals. --- ## Issues: Infrastructure URL: https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/issues/create-infrastructure-for-the-future ###### Strengthen Our Communities ### **Create Infrastructure for the Future** - Invest in reliable roads - Maintain and improve clean water systems - Expand high-speed internet in underserved rural areas - Ensure every community has the resources to compete and grow Reliable high-speed internet is no longer a luxury - it's essential infrastructure for our families, farms, schools, and small businesses. [Spectrum's](https://corporate.charter.com/newsroom/spectrum-expands-fiber-broadband-network-in-kent-county-michigan)recent fiber expansion in northern Kent County, including Courtland Township where I serve as Trustee, will connect approximately 850 additional homes and businesses. However, thousands of rural households are still estimated to lack reliable broadband access, particularly in our northern HD90 townships. For many small businesses, unreliable internet means lost sales, fewer online opportunities, barriers to using modern technology, and a harder path to growth and competition in today’s economy. As your next State House Representative, I will support continued investments in rural broadband and legislation that strengthens House Bill 4287 by adding provisions that address affordability and permit streamlining. Every family deserves access to telehealth, online learning, and remote work opportunities. Every entrepreneur, farmer, and small business deserves the tools to succeed, regardless of their ZIP code. Broadband isn't just about internet access - it's about economic development, educational opportunity, and keeping northern Kent County connected for generations to come. I’ll work to make sure all our neighbors, farmers, and small businesses have access to the tools and resources they need. Invest in reliable roads, clean and modern water systems, and high-speed internet especially in underserved rural communities so every part of Michigan has the infrastructure needed to thrive and compete. --- ## Issues: Local Economies URL: https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/issues/building-strong-local-economies-growing-small-businesses ###### Make Life More Affordable Building Strong Local Economies & Growing Small Businesses ## Building Strong Local Economies & Growing Small Businesses Michigan already has programs that support entrepreneurship, downtown revitalization, and economic growth, but too often rural communities and small towns struggle to access the same opportunities and resources as larger cities. **I support:** - Supporting rural and locally owned small businesses - Investing in vibrant downtowns and community gathering spaces - Expanding opportunities for entrepreneurs and family businesses - Reducing barriers that make it harder to start and grow a business - Strengthening workforce development and skilled trades partnerships - Expanding broadband and infrastructure investments that help communities compete **As a State Representative, I would work to strengthen and expand existing programs by:** - Increasing support for rural economic development - Improving access to grants and technical assistance for smaller communities - Expanding downtown revitalization and façade improvement programs - Supporting locally owned businesses and community-based entrepreneurship - Encouraging responsible growth that keeps communities strong while preserving local character Strong communities are built from the ground up — by small businesses, local employers, entrepreneurs, and the people who invest back into the places they call home. Support rural and local small businesses, strengthen Michigan’s downtowns, and give entrepreneurs the tools to create jobs and keep our communities thriving. I'll work to put more state resources behind Michigan’s Main Street businesses by requiring large corporations receiving state aid to invest in Michigan-based small businesses. We’ll expand access to financing, technical support, and growth opportunities while creating a one-stop Office of Small Business Growth to cut red tape, connect entrepreneurs with resources, and help small businesses create good-paying jobs. Write a short blurb about an issue your campaign is highlighting. Try to keep the text a similar size between the various issue blurbs. --- ## Issues: Transparent & Accountable Government URL: https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/issues/demanding-transparent-accountable-government ###### Restore trust that government is working for you - Hold local and state officials accountable to the people they represent - Ensure full transparency in development decisions and public infrastructure planning - Strengthen open, accessible, and accountable decision-making for major public projects - Protect community voice in all major government decisions through clear and open processes [Watch Video](https://www.facebook.com/reel/28038169962502529) ### No More Corporate Money & Influence in Lansing Michigan voters deserve better than the same old political machine with a different name on the ballot. For too long, Lansing has operated on a simple formula: wealthy donors, corporations, industry PACs and political insiders put money into campaigns, candidates get elected, and the system stays the same. [Rachel Crowther](https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/) is running to break that cycle in her bid to become the State Representative for House District 90. Rachel is committed to keeping corporate money out of politics, starting with her grassroots campaign that is accepting no corporate donations or PAC contributions. Her opponent, [Lynn Afendoulis](https://www.transparencyusa.org/mi/candidate/angelynn-afendoulis-can?cycle=2022-election-cycle), calls her campaign grassroots. But her campaign funding history tells a different story, one of corporate and utility special interests. Afendoulis' 2022 failed House campaign reported approximately $360,000 in contributions, including $10,500 contributions from several major political committees, $5,000 from the Michigan Oil & Gas PAC and additional contributions from the billionaire members of well-known West Michigan families. That's not the kind of grassroots model Rachel is talking about. Grassroots efforts rely on ordinary people working to create change. Working families who aren’t writing $10,500 checks to political committees. Parents who don’t have corporate PACs. Small-business owners without armies of lobbyists. These are the people who are supporting Rachel’s campaign; ordinary people she will fight for when she becomes their State Representative. Rachel supports [Michiganders for Money Out of Politics,](https://mopupmichigan.org/) aninitiative to restrict political contributions from regulated electric and gas utilities and certain government contractors, plus strengthen disclosure of political spending. But Rachel doesn’t believe we should wait for the Money Out of Politics initiative to be approved by Michigan voters to reject corporate influence. She is showing voters they come first by not accepting any corporate contributions or corporate PAC donations. Rachel has pledged to reject corporate PAC money and regulated utility money because her obligation is to the people who live here. That independence matters when it comes to the issues facing our communities. Rachel supports a [12-month statewide moratorium](https://planetdetroit.org/2026/03/lawmakers-propose-michigan-data-center-moratorium/) on new data centers while Michigan establishes responsible standards for their electricity use, water consumption, infrastructure demands and impact on local communities. She can take that position because she doesn't owe the data-center industry, utility companies, or corporate special interests a political favor. Michigan can grow its economy without giving corporations a blank check. We can welcome innovation without sacrificing our communities. This election is a choice between politics as usual and something different. One candidate is part of the established political fundraising system. [Rachel Crowther](https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/) is building something outside of it. Rachel is not bought and paid for. She's accountable to the people. Michigan doesn't need another politician who knows how to work the system. We need someone willing to change it. No corporate PACs. No political machine. No billionaire agenda. Just people-first leadership for the people who live, work and raise their families here. ** ** Hold local and state officials accountable to the people they represent Ensure full transparency in development decisions and public infrastructure planning Strengthen open, accessible, and accountable decision-making for major public projects Protect community voice in all major government decisions through clear and open processes Rachel supports Michiganders for Money Out of Politics, aninitiative to restrict political contributions from regulated electric and gas utilities and certain government contractors, plus strengthen disclosure of political spending. --- ## Issues: Housing Access URL: https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/issues/michigans-housing-challenge-requires-more-than-one-solution ###### Strengthen Our Communities ## Housing- Tackling Michigan’s housing challenge ##### There is no one-size-fits-all solution for Michigan's housing crisis I still remember the day my husband and I bought our first home. We were filled with excitement as we picked up the keys, opened the door, and stepped into an empty house that held so much possibility. Like so many families, we filled that home with memories, the first meal that didn’t quite turn out as planned, our first Christmas, weekends spent tackling DIY projects, and all the ordinary moments that became part of our story. Years later, handing those keys to someone else was bittersweet, because we weren’t just leaving a house, we were saying goodbye to a chapter of our lives. A home is more than four walls and a roof. It is where families grow, where traditions begin, where children feel safe, and where neighbors become friends. Every hardworking family deserves the opportunity to experience that sense of security, pride, and possibility. Michigan's housing shortage is one of the biggest challenges facing our state, but there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Every community is different, and that's why I believe we need practical, flexible policies that give local leaders the tools to address their own housing needs instead of single-solution mandates from Lansing. I support common-sense incentives that encourage communities to modernize their zoning when it makes sense for them, rather than state mandates that remove local decision-making. For example, I support the Housing Readiness Incentive (HRI) Grant Program which gives townships, cities and local governments financial support to modernize local zoning and land use plans. Michigan is a diverse state, with growing suburbs, rural townships, and small towns that each face unique housing challenges. The best solutions are built in partnership with local communities, not imposed upon them. As a State Representative, I would work to reward communities that take proactive steps to expand housing opportunities while preserving the character that makes their places unique. Incentive-based programs can encourage thoughtful planning without taking away local control. I believe in a layered approach to addressing Michigan's housing challenges. That means combining thoughtful zoning reform, smart infrastructure investments, responsible tax incentives, and modern building policies to expand housing opportunities while respecting local communities. The Housing Tax Increment Financing (TIF) under Act 381 is one example of how we can support responsible growth without the one size fits all state mandates. **Invest in infrastructure –** Housing and infrastructure must also go hand in hand. If we want to build more homes for future generations, we need to invest in the roads, water systems, sewer capacity, and public infrastructure that make responsible growth possible. Prioritizing infrastructure funding alongside new housing development will help create safer, stronger communities for decades to come. Provide local incentives - I also believe local governments should have greater flexibility to offer targeted, temporary property tax incentives that encourage the rehabilitation of blighted properties and support housing projects that fit their long-term community plans. Revitalizing existing neighborhoods is often just as important as building new ones. **Update regulations -** To address the rising cost of construction, we should continue reviewing our zoning regulations and building codes to identify opportunities to reduce unnecessary costs while maintaining safety and quality. Working alongside local officials, builders, and industry experts, we can modernize outdated regulations and make it easier to build the homes Michigan families need. **Prioritize workforce housing -** We should also continue investing in workforce housing through strategic state tax credits and gap funding that helps move quality housing projects from the planning stage to completion. Solving Michigan's housing shortage will require partnerships between state government, local communities, the private sector, and nonprofit organizations. I come from a working-class background, and I understand how deeply families rely on housing they can afford. For too long, we have been told that economic growth at the top will eventually trickle down to working families, but too many people are still struggling with rising housing costs and limited options. No single policy or political party is going to solve a housing shortage of more than 100,000 homes. Real progress will come from collaboration, innovation, and a willingness to work together on practical solutions. We can create more pathways to homeownership, support workforce housing, revitalize existing neighborhoods, and protect seniors and longtime homeowners from unnecessary tax burdens. By working together, we can make housing more attainable while preserving the communities that make Michigan such a great place to call home. Michigan’s housing shortage is one of the biggest challenges facing our state, but there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Every community is different, and that’s why I believe we need practical, flexible policies that give local leaders the tools to address their own housing needs instead of single-solution mandates from Lansing. --- ## Issues: Data Centers URL: https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/issues/stronger-oversight-of-data-centers-to-protect-kent-countys-water-and-communities ###### Restore trust that government is working for you Data Center Protectings ## Stronger Oversight -12-Month State Wide Moratorium As corporations move aggressively to develop data centers across Michigan, West Michigan communities are facing decisions with lasting consequences for residents, natural resources, and local infrastructure. For decades, families in Rockford, Plainfield, and Algoma Townships have lived with the fallout of the PFAS crisis. Residents lost trust in the water coming out of their taps, and these communities have spent years dealing with the environmental failures they did not create. *"The lesson here isn't complicated,"* said Rachel Crowther, candidate for State Representative M90. *“When governments fail to ask hard questions and regulate an emerging industry before approving development, our families, kids, and grandkids will pay the price for generations."* As discussions continue about bringing data centers and AI-related infrastructure to West Michigan, Crowther says local leaders must proceed cautiously. *"Do data centers bring economic opportunity? Maybe. But they also place significant demands on water, energy, and local infrastructure,"* Crowther said. *"This is not simply a conversation about zoning, manufacturing, or technology. It is a conversation about protecting our local ecosystems and preserving the quality of life that makes our communities special."* Crowther stressed that communities already impacted by groundwater contamination cannot afford to take a "build first, ask questions later" approach. *"I support innovation and economic growth, but I refuse to ask our neighborhoods to shoulder unknown risks while large corporations pocket the profits,"* she said. *"Before any data center or large-scale industrial facility receives state incentives or local approval, it must prove it will not harm our communities."* **Crowther is calling for three key protections:** **Independent Environmental Studies:** These include full reviews of impacts on local aquifers, ongoing monitoring of residential wells, and strong protections for the Rogue River, Grand River, and surrounding watersheds. **Full Disclosure of Chemicals Used:** Companies must fully disclose chemicals used in cooling systems and industrial processes, provide transparent waste disposal plans, and be held financially responsible for any future contamination. If a company pollutes, it should pay for the cleanup, not taxpayers. **Resident Engagement:** Residents deserve a meaningful voice in public hearings, complete transparency regarding water and energy demands, and guarantees that local taxpayers will not be forced to subsidize infrastructure for private developments. Local governments remain the first line of defense in protecting community interests. Crowther also expressed support for bipartisan legislation introduced in Lansing that would temporarily pause new data center development while the state evaluates long-term impacts on communities and infrastructure. The legislation, [Senate Bills 1018-1020](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2026-SB-1018)**and** [House Bills 5594-5596](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2026-HB-5596), would establish a one-year moratorium on new data center projects, allowing policymakers and local governments time to study impacts on Michigan's electrical grid, water resources, land use, and local communities. *"We've already seen the devastating cost of delayed action and weak oversight,"* Crowther said. *"We learned that lesson the hard way with PFAS. We shouldn't have to learn it again. These bipartisan bills provide an opportunity to slow down, ask the right questions, and ensure we are protecting residents before approving projects that could have consequences for decades."* As State Representative, Crowther — who runs her own business in Rockford and is a Courtland Twp. trustee — pledged to advocate for responsible growth that balances economic opportunity with environmental stewardship and local control. *"I want a strong Michigan economy, affordable housing and sustainable job growth, but never at the expense of the clean water our children drink,"* Crowther said. *"The people of Kent County deserve growth that is sustainable, transparent, and fair. Let's build a future we can actually be proud to pass down."* As State Representative, Crowther — who runs her own business in Rockford and is a Courtland Twp. trustee — pledged to advocate for responsible growth that balances economic opportunity with environmental stewardship and local control. Since the start of my campaign I have supported a 12-month statewide moratorium and stricter regulations for hyper scale data centers and data mining. As I listen to the concerns of residents in our district, I’m convinced this is an essential step to ensure we fully understand the implications of data centers and put necessary safeguards in place. --- ## Issues: Rural Character URL: https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/issues/protecting-natural-resources-rural-character ###### Strengthen Our Communities Protecting Natural Resources & Rural Character ## Protecting Natural Resources & Rural Character - Protect lakes, rivers, and clean drinking water - Support responsible growth that respects local communities - Champion regulations that safeguard rural character - Ensure strong protections for natural resources - Advocate for thoughtful oversight of data center development #### Northern Kent County’s farms are more than businesses they’re family legacies, local jobs, and a cornerstone of our economy. From the family farms of Tyrone Township to the orchards of Sparta’s Fruit Ridge, we need to protect the agricultural land that feeds our communities and supports generations of farmers. Voluntary Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) programs give farmers more options to preserve their land, invest in their operations, reduce debt, and create a pathway for the next generation. The PDR program has already preserved more than 3,000 acres of farmland across Kent County, with an estimated 2,000 acres located right here in House District 90. In fact, Vergennes Township is home to the historic 106-acre Howard Farm, the very first farm preserved through Kent County’s PDR program. Protecting farmland also protects local jobs. Our agricultural economy supports equipment dealers, packing facilities, cold storage operations, farm markets, and countless small businesses throughout our region. Once productive farmland is lost to development, it’s nearly impossible to replace. That’s why I support bipartisan efforts like Senate Bills 685, 690, and 699, which strengthen Michigan’s farmland preservation programs, improve access to state matching funds, and help ensure family farms can continue benefiting from programs that keep working lands in production. These are common-sense solutions that respect private property rights while giving landowners the tools they need to protect their family’s legacy. This campaign isn’t about party politics it’s about people. While others focus on partisan talking points, I’m focused on the real issues facing our communities: protecting family farms, supporting small businesses, preserving our rural character, expanding access to affordable healthcare, strengthening public education, and investing in infrastructure that keeps our communities thriving. House District 90 deserves a representative who listens first, leads with integrity, and focuses on real solutions. I will be a voice for the people of this district and the issues that matter most to our families, farmers, workers, seniors, and small businesses. Preserve Michigan’s farmland, open spaces, lakes, rivers, wetlands, and clean drinking water by investing in farmland preservation and conservation easements, strengthening protections for wetlands and groundwater, and directing growth toward already-developed areas. Write a short blurb about an issue your campaign is highlighting. Try to keep the text a similar size between the various issue blurbs. --- ## Events: Event title here URL: https://www.rachelcrowthermi.com/events/event-1 **firstName** First Name **lastName** Last Name **phoneNumber** Phone Number **zipOrPostalCode** ZIP Code **email** Email Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Write a short blurb about the event. --- ## Footer Contact: info@rachelcrowthermi.com Powered by