BELLAIRE — A new bill moving through Lansing could reshape court service operations in Northern Michigan. Lawmakers are considering legislation that would allow Antrim County to leave the 86th district court, which it currently shares with Grand Traverse and Leelanau counties.

County leaders say the shared district court has created various challenges for residents, specifically when it comes to traveling back and forth to Grand Traverse County for services. They argue that a district court specific to Antrim County would bring essential services closer to home and allow for more local control of budgeting, staffing, and scheduling.

Officials in the neighboring counties have pushed back, warning that a separation could raise costs and put pressure on existing staff. They argue the three-

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