Rep. Ray Franz has introduced legislation that would manufacture Sleeping Bear license plates to raise funds for the lakeshore.
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LANSING -- Soon you may be able to have a northern Michigan landmark on your license plate.
Representative Ray Franz, R-Onekama, has introduced legislation that would help fundraising efforts for the Preserve Historic Sleeping Bear organization by making special license plates.
The plate would allow local drivers, as well as those from all corners of the state to join together in a display of admiration for the park.
"The spotlight always shines on the dunes' scenic beauty and stunning natural features," said Franz. "What sometimes gets overlooked is the large number of historic resources within the park that can be every bit as breathtaking when you consider the struggles and resourcefulness of the people who made the shoreline area their home in the early years of our state. Supporting the preservation efforts through the dedicated license plate embraces both scenic and cultural aspects of the park.
The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore along Lake Michigan was established in 1970 by Congress to safeguard the natural geography and forests. The park also brags 64 miles of beaches, two islands, 26 inland lakes and the monumental sand dunes.
In 1998, the park service intended to demolish more than 200 structures within the grounds of the park.
A grass-roots effort led by local resulted in the Preserve Historic Sleeping Bear group, which has partnered with the park to protect and enhance the historical resources in the park.
Franz' bill would give money raised by the license plate sales to the group on a quarterly basis.
You can contact Rep. Franz with comments or questions by calling toll-free 1-855-DIST-101 (1-855-347-8101) or email rayfranz@house.mi.gov. You can also visit his website by clicking here.
