NLEA 2026 Economic Symposium Closing Panel: A Conversation with the Northern Michigan Caucus Part 2

Friday, May 15th, from 8 am – 2 pm at Boyne Mountain Resort, MBN joined the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance for their 2026 Economic Symposium. Following the Keynote Speaker, David Malpass, there were several Breakout Sessions to choose from: Made in Northern Michigan: How Regional Manufacturing Is Powering a Stronger Economy – Grown in Northern Michigan: State of the Agriculture Sector – Built in Northern Michigan: Developing a Strong Construction Sector – Open For Business: How Local Leaders Can Encourage Business and Community Investment – The annual awards luncheon, then, finally, was the two-part video content shared here covering the... Closing Panel: A Conversation with the Northern Michigan Caucus Northern Lakes Economic Alliance of Michigan's communities and businesses don’t operate in a vacuum; they operate within a policy environment that can either support or inhibit them. Join members of the Northern Michigan Caucus for a dynamic and candid conversation about the state decisions shaping the region’s economic future. This closing panel brought to the gathering the legislators influencing policies around infrastructure, housing, taxes, regulatory reform, and other areas critical to economic resilience. Gain insight into what’s emerging from Lansing, how it impacts northern Michigan, and how regional leaders can work together to advance practical, forward-thinking solutions. Representative Parker Fairbairn, 107th District Representative Cam Cavitt, 106th District Senator John Damoose, 37th District The session was moderated by the NLEA President and CEO, Payton Heins, CEcD.