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HomeMy WebLinkAboutResolutions - 2012.03.07 - 20017MISCELLANEOUS RESOLUTION #12045 March 7, 901 9 BY: PLANNING AND BUILDING COMMITTEE, DAVID POTTS, CHAIRPERSON IN RE: PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION — SUPPORT OF APPLICATION FOR A MICHIGAN RECREATION PASSPORT PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT GRANT FOR ACCESSIBILITY IMPROVEMENTS AT ADDISON OAKS COUNTY PARK To the Oakland County Board of Commissioners Chairperson, Ladies and Gentlemen: WHEREAS, the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission has been notified by the Department of Natural Resources that application for cost sharing grants from the Recreation Passport Grant Program may be submitted by April 2, 2012; and WHEREAS, the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission has identified and established priorities for improvements within the adopted FY 2012-2016 Capital Improvement Program Budget Plan; and WHEREAS, this program ties in with the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission's Strategic Master Plan objective 2.10.1 to develop and implement a system-wide phased accessibility plan with the goal of creating ADA compliance; and WHEREAS, the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission recommends the filing of the following application to the Department of Natural Resources for a $45,000 grant (75% of total project costs) with a local match of $15,000 (25%); and WHEREAS, the grant agency requires a resolution from the Governing Body in support of the application. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Oakland County Board of Commissioners authorizes and approves the Recreation Passport Grant Program development grant application, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Oakland County Board of Commissioners directs its Chairperson or designee to execute said application on behalf of the County of Oakland. Chairperson, on behalf of the Planning and Building Committee, I move the adoption of the foregoing resolution. PLANNING AND BUILDING COMMITTEE PLANNING & BUILDING COMMITTEE VOTE: Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote. GRANT REVIEW SIGN OFF — Parks & Recreation GRANT NAME: 2012 Michigan Recreation Passport Program - Accessibility Improvements at Addison Oaks County Park FUNDING AGENCY: Michigan Department of Natural Resources DEPARTMENT CONTACT PERSON: Melissa Prowse 858-0906 STATUS: Grant Application DATE: February 17, 2012 Pursuant to Misc. Resolution #01320, please be advised the captioned grant materials have completed internal grant review. Below are the returned comments. The captioned grant materials and grant application package (which should include an application Report from Fiscal Services to the Chairperson of the Board of Commissioners, the grant application, and this Sign Off email containing grant review comments) may be submitted to the Chairperson of the Board of Commissioners for review and signature, with informational copies to the appropriate Board of Commissioners' committee(s). DEPARTMENT REVIEW Department of Management and Budget: Approved. — Laurie Van Pelt (2/7/2012) Department of Human Resources: Approved. — Karen Jones (2/7/2012) Risk Management and Safety: Approved By Risk Management - Andrea Plotkowslci (2/9/2012) Corporation Counsel: Based on the attached environmental report, I saw no legal issues that must be resolved before the above-referenced grant application is submitted. — Jody S. Hall (2/15/2012) COMPLIANCE The grant application references a number of specific federal and/or state regulations. Below is a list of these specifically cited compliance related documents for this grant. Michigan Natural Resources and Environments Protection Act 451 of 1994 as amended by PA 32 of 2010 http://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(ajfbnz3f..F0m5xliry33tuft0jv))/mileg.aspx?pagetgetObiect&obj e ctNanae----2010-HB-5752 Michigan Occupational Code Act 299 of 1980; MCL 339.2011 http://www.legislature .mi .gov/(S(aifbnz3g0m5xliry33mft0jv))/mileg.aspx?page=getObiect&obj e ctName=me1-339-2011 U.S. 2010 Americans with Disabilities Act Standards for Accessible Design http://www.ada. gov/201 OADAstandards index .htni IN SUPPORT OF THE APPLICATION FOR A MICHIGAN RECREATION PASSPORT PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT GRANT FOR THE OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION ACCESSIBILITY IMPROVEMENTS AT ADDISON OAKS COUNTY PARK WHEREAS, the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission has been notified by the Department of Natural Resources that application for cost sharing grants from the Recreation Passport Grant Program may be submitted by April 2, 2012; and WHEREAS, the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission has identified and established priorities for improvements within the adopted FY 2012-1016 Capital Improvement Program Budget Plan; and WHEREAS, this program ties in with the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission's Strategic Master Plan objective 2.10.1 to develop and implement a system-wide phased accessibility plan with the goal of creating ADA compliance; and WHEREAS, the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission recommends the filing of the following application to the Department of Natural Resources for a $45,000 grant (75% of total project costs) with a local match of $15,000 (25%): NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission hereby requests the Oakland County Board of Commissioners authorize and approve the Recreation Passport Grant Program development grant application. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission hereby requests the Board of Commissioners direct its Chairperson or designee to execute said application on behalf of the County of Oakland. Moved by: Mr. VanderVeen Supported by: Mrs. Long Date: January 11,2012 Environmental Report for Accessibility Improvements at Addison Oaks Park Oakland County Boyd Brokenshaw, Addison Oaks County Park Supervisor February 15, 2.012 Site Conditions Addison Oaks Park is a 1,140-acre park in northeast Oakland County with two lakes, spring-fed ponds, and natural wooded and meadow areas. The park contains a modern campground with 174 sites, six group camping areas, and six camper cabins. All individual campsites have both water and electrical service. Modern restroom/shower buildings are available for campers. The park also contains a large concession building with restrooms, numerous picnic shelters, small boat launch, boat rental area, swimming beach, and playground equipment. In addition to the recreation facilities, Addison Oaks Park has a conference center l, park office, maintenance garage, and its own wastewater treatment plant consisting of a series of sewage lagoons. The treatment plant was developed with assistance from a Recreation Bond grant, BF91-025. Environmental Assessment Results Items #3, #6, and #7 were checked "yes" in Section E of the application for the following reasons: #3: Pesticides for weed control is stored and used on the property. They are stored in the maintenance garage. #6: As mentioned above, there is a sewage treatment plant on the property. #7: There are 2 fuel storage tanks located within the maintenance garage. One holds a maximum of 1,000 gallons of biodiesel oil. The other holds a maximum of 1,000 gallons of gasoline. Assessment and Cleanup Actions Needed Oakland County Parks and Recreation believes that all areas of Addison County Park designated for public outdoor recreation, including the areas where the proposed boat launch and fishing pier will be installed, are safe and that there is no need for any cleanup actions at this time. To ensure continued safety and environmental protection, Addison Oaks maintenance staff will continue to carry out the following procedures: #3: All required procedures will continue to be followed for the use and storage of pesticides to avoid any safety concerns and unwanted environmental effects. #6: Signs, vegetative screening, and its location away of the recreation activity areas of the park all discourage and prevent public exposure to the lagoons and other components making up the sewage treatment plant. Maintenance and records on the lagoon system are regularly performed and recorded by the Oakland County Water Resources Department. 1 No grant funds have been used to acquire the land or develop this facility. The conference center is separated by distance and a separate driveway from the majority of the park land, which used solely for public outdoor recreation purposes. #7: The fuel tanks are double walled and there is an alarm system on the tanks. A spill kit is located in the maintenance garage next the fuel tanks in case of a fuel spill. Staff has been trained in the proper use of the spill kit. Implementation Responsibilities The Addison Oaks Park Supervisor, Boyd Brokenshaw, and the Park Crew Chief, Keith Lindsey, will continue to supervise and train their staff to ensure that all safety and environmental precautions are taken at all times. Tentative Schedule N.A. Confirmation Statement We have read and understand the following statements: If grant funding is recommended, the applicant will be required to submit additional, detailed information to the DNR regarding property conditions and if this information indicates the property may be contaminated, the applicant must obtain written DNR approval before developing the property. The grant is subject to cancellation if the additional information indicates that site will not or cannot be made safe for its intended use within the grant period; or the presence of contamination, even with the implementation of due care actions, will have a substantial negative impact on the overall recreation or resource protection values of the site. Boyd Brokenshaw, Park Supervisor Melissa Prowse, Business Development Representative i;,, • i ; 1'4 • ' '' ' y. : _ , ...•• • ••: —_,.. Name of Applicant (Government Unit) Federal IU Number t...ounty OAKLAND COUNTY 38-600-4876W OAKLAND Name of Authorized Representative (responsible for application day-to-clay) Tale MELISSA PROWSE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT REP Address Telephone 2800 WATKINS LAKE ROAD ( 248 858-0906 City State ZIP E-mal WATERFORD MICHIGAN 48328 I? rows ern@ oak ov . cum State House District State Senate District U.S. Congressional District 43 26 9 Address of Site City, Village or Township at site 1480 W ROMEO ROAD LEONARD --County in Which site is located Town, Range and Section Numbers of site location Ea-litude/Longitude at park entrance OAKLAND T5N, R11E, SEC. 33,34,35 _ TAN R I F. .SEC Pack Name OAKS COUNTY PARK ProtiAod811-g.Ig inipIll exceed 40charac ers)_ MOVEMENTS AT ADDISON OAKS PARK r L Pro sDecpr IS TO CONSTRUCT A UNIVERSALLY ACCESSIBLE FISHING PIER AND INSTALL A UNIVERSALLY ACCESSIBLE SMALL BOAT LAUNCH AT ADDISON OAKS PARK.. —:,......4. See the 2012 Recreation Passport Grant Program Application Guidelines booklet aC1956) for guidance. SOURCES OF MATCHING FUNDS PROJECT COST AMOUNTS a. General Funds or Local Restricted Funds (Applicant's own cash) $i_a,Eo.o(29_ b. Force Account Labor/Materials (Applicant's own paid labor or materials) $ 4,200.00 c. Federal or State Funds $ .00 d. Cash Donations $ .00 e. Donated Labor and/or Materials $ . .00 _ f. Value of any Land Repurposed to Recreation as Part of the Project (2xSEV) $ .00 g. Total Match (Must be at least 25% of total project cost) 15 ,000.00 h. Grant Amount Requested (Round to the nearest 100 dollars) $ 45,000.00 i. Total Project Cost (Must equal the total estimated cost in Section D1) $ 60,000.00 PLEASE ROUND ALL AMOUNTS TO THE NEAREST $100 Page 2 of 6 PR1g56 (Rev 12)06/2012) Page 3 of 6 Pk1956 (Rev, 12/0600121 • -1.-..;:11161 !Complete only if you entered a value for any or all of items c, a'. or e in Section B of this application. c. Federal or other state funds - Provide the information requested below for each federator state program from which matching funds will be provided. TITP-r-o-g7a7—ri -Name Administering Agency Contact Name for Administering Agency Telephone Amount ( $ Type of Funds Li Grant funds awarded Date grant funds approved E Grant funds applied for, not yet approved Estynated approval date 0 Appropriated funds Date appropriate° [ii Other, explain Is documentation containing the scope of work and budget for the other grant funds included with application? 0 No 0 Yes - Is documentation (such as a grant approval letter) that verifies the availability of funds included with application? E No 0 Yes (2)Program Name Administering Agency -Contact Name for Administering Agency Telephone Amount ( ) $ ' Type of Funds 0 Grant funds awarded Date grant funds approved D Grant funds applied for, not yet approved Estimeleo approval date E Appropriated funds Date appropriated 0 Other, explain Is documentation containing the scope of work and budget for the other grant funds included with application? E No 0 Yes Is documentation (such as a grant approval letter) that verifies the availabiIity of funds included with application? 0 Nb 0 Yes — d. Cash Donations - List the individual sources and the amounts to be donated below. SOURCE. AMOUNT $ — $ $ Is a letter of intent from each donor included with application? Ej No 0 Yes e. Donated Labor or Materials - Inciude each item to be donated, the source, dollar value, and how the dollar value was determined, ITEM SOURCE. DOLLAR VALUE VALUATION METHOD $ $ $ IS a letter of intent from each donor included with application? 0 No 0 Yes COST 37,000.00 6 7 8 9, 10 5. N . A . YES ;SOcti: NO YES El Li Li 123 D einTaiEtag iali.! - Applicant's current control of the site: 51 Fee Simple Perpetual Easement Li Lease Project Cost Estimate Table List the specific development scope items (play equipment, parking lot paving, landscaping) rather than aspects of project execution (materials, labor, equipment, site clearing). Do not include ineligible items such as engineering costs beyond 15% of the subtotal and contingencies. Facilities must be designed to be in compliance with the 2010 Americans with Disabilities Act Standards for Accessible Design. SCOPE ITEMS Limit each item description to 25 characters. Do Universal Design? SIZE OR Not Abbreviate, QUANTITY SMALL BOAT LAUNCH 2 KAYAK/CANOE CADDY IES___ 1 _ $ 200.00 3, FISHING PIER YES 1 $ 19,500.00 4 _ ACCESS ROUTE YES 10 ET $ 2,500.00 YES 1 Permit Fees 500.00 SUBTOTAL $ 59,700.00 ENGINEERING (These fees tnay not exceed 15% of subtotal) $ 300.00 TOTAL ESTIMATED COST (Total Estimated Cost must match item h. of Section 4201 this form) $ 60,000.00 1,AUVIZi 1li3 .,-'.11111111111111111111110111111111111111111111111111111111111E t is the expected life of the facilities constructed as part of the project? (Please . note: Program requires commitment of minimum 20 years if no enclosed structure and 20-25 YEARS 40 years with enclosed structure). If you are submitting multiple applications, what is the priority for this application? (1 = highest) Is unimpeded access to the project site secured through ownership or easement or lease of term no less than the length of time that control of the project site is secured? WI the project be usedfor the viewing Of professional or semi-professional arts, athletics or intercollegiate or interscholastiosports? if yes, what percentage of normal operating hours will be used in this capacity? NO WII fees be charged at the park? - VEHICLE PERMITS MCYes LiNo ... vv $5/DAY.$310/Y.R $10/DAY $48/YR If yes, what will be the fees for residents r nat mu one the fees for non-residents? Has applicant received DNR recreation grant(s) in the past? Is there an entrance sign identifying the site as a public recreation srte open to all users? Has applicant closed, sold, or transferred any parkland or recreation facilities in the past 5 years? Does applicant have a "residents only' policy for this park or other parks or recreation facilities? Page 4 of 6 P51956 (Rev 12451/2012) Page 5 of 6 PR1956 (Roy 12/06/201T, Complete the following property checklist On the environmental conditions at the project site and adjacent areas, using information from the past ten years or longer, as appropriate. If you answer YES or UNKNOWN to any of the questions, you are required to prepare an environmental report. See Recreation Passport Grant Program Application Guidelines for guidance, NO YES UNKNOWN 1. Does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge that any portion of the property gj El 0 is or has been used for industrial purposes; including manufacturing and/or minerals' processing or extraction (sand, gravel, oil, or gas) at this time or in the past'? 2. Does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge that any portion of the property Ei [l]Li is currently being used or has been used in the past for a gas station, motor vehicle service or repair facility, commercial printing facility, dry cleaners, photo developing lab, junkyard, landfill, waste treatment, storage, processing or recycling or disposal facility? . Does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge that any of the following are or Li ELi have in the past been stored, discarded, or used on the property – automotive or industrial batteries, pesticides or other chemicals used in agricultural practices, paints, industrial waste, or other chemicals in drums or other containers? 4. Does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge that fill dirt or other fill material EN n El of unknown origin is on this property or has in the past been placed on the property? 5. Does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge of any evidence of leaks, spills, [3 0 El or stains from a substance other than water at this time or in the past? 6. Does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge that there are or have in the 21 r] 0 past been waste disposal pits, lagoons, or ponds on the property? 7'. Does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge that there are at this time or 0 El 0 have in the past been registered or unregistered storage tanks on the property? 8 Does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge that contaminated groundwater u El Li lies below the property? 9. If there is a water well on the property, does the applicant, landowner, or others have 7 El 0 knowledge that contaminants have been identified in the well that exceeded legal standards or has the well been idenlified as contaminated by a government agency? .__ — 10. Has the landowner been notified about any current violations of environmental laws PS 0 Li pertaining to activities on the property or does applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge about past violations'? 11. Has the landowner been notified of any environmental assessments of the property that 0 Li identified a) the presence of hazardous substances, petroleum products, or contamination; or b) the need for further assessment? 12. Does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge that any hazardous gg [7] Li substances, unidentified waste materials, tires, or automotive or industrial batteries have been dumped above ground, buried, or burned on the property? 13, Is the property listed on any federal or state list of contaminated sites, including the site of [1] Li a leaking underground storage tank? 14. Does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge that any of the adjoining 0 0 properties are currently being used or have been used in the past for the purposes listed in the previous questions 1-13? 15. Has an environmental assessment been completed for the site? If yes, provide the most 0 0 current. o__, – Are permits required for the development of the site'? Li NO Lxj YES Ell UNKNOWN , i If yes, complete the following table: TYPE OF PERMIT PERMITTING AGENCY EFFORTS TAKEN TO OPTAIN PERMIT OR DETERMINE PERMIT REQUIREMENTS JOINT PERMIT MDEO APPLICATION FOR DOCK PERMIT SUBMITTED; WILL APPLY FOR PERMITS FOR PIER AND LAUNCH PIOR TO BIDDING AND CONSTRUCTION. ,.2.--- F.T.M1,71 . ffr_ 1:"111: 7 I I hereby certify that I am an official of the applicant agency and have the legal authonly to make the necessary commitments to apply for this grant also certify that I have read and understand all of the commitments and responsibilities listed in the Recreation Passport Grant Program booklet (1C1956) related to this grant. Printed/typed name of authorized agent Title of authorized agent Signature Date Complete all information, sign, and mail to GRANTS MANAGEMENT MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES PO BOX 30425 LANSING MI 48909-7925 OVERNIGHT or EXPRESS MAIL to GRANTS MANAGEMENT MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES MASON BUILDING, 3R0 FLOOR 530 W ALLEGAN LANSING MI 48933 Mailed applications must be postmarked by the US Postal Service no later than 11:59pnt April 2, 2012. DO NOT FAX APPLICATION. Page 6 of 6 PR19-56 {Rey 12/0E/2012) Accessibility Improvements at Addison Oaks County Park PROJECT DESCRIPTION The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission (OCPRC) is seeking financial assistance from the Recreation Passport Program to improve the accessibility of Addison Oaks County Park for all people by replacing aging facilities with a universally accessible fishing pier and a universally accessible canoe/kayak boat launch on Buhl Lake. All boat docks at the launch area will be replaced in 2012 with Oakland County Park funds, including the one to which the accessible launch will be attached. The dock system will exceed ADA requirements. In addition, parking and access routes will be improved to exceed ADA requirements. Finally, a hand operated cart will be provided to aid in the transport of kayaks and canoes from automobiles to the launch. Addison Oaks Park is a 1,140-acre park in northeast Oakland County with two lakes, spring-fed ponds, and natural wooded and meadow areas. The park provides a variety of recreation opportunities, including swimming, boating, fishing, picnicking, hiking, mountain bike trails, equestrian trails, camping, camper cabins, disk golf, geocaching, hunting (deer archery and a lottery-based controlled deer hunt in the eastern portion of the park only) and the winter activities of cross country skiing and ice fishing. There are 6.8 miles of single-track mountain bike trails and 11 additional miles of multiple-use trails. Both the fishing pier and the boat launch area are located on the 37-acre Buhl Lake, which is used for boating (no gas motors) and fishing. Swimming only is allowed at Adams Lake, a four-acre lake within the park. Pedal boats, rowboats, and mountain bikes are available for rent by day users and campers at the boat launch site from Memorial Day until Labor Day. Hand-operated bicycles and trail chairs are available for people with disabilities at the same fee as the regular bike rental. PROJECT JUSTIFICATION AND SUPPORT For more than a century, residents from across Southeast Michigan have been attracted by the many opportunities to enjoy Oakland County's natural features. Many parks and natural areas in Oakland County have an "Up North" feeling, with the advantage of being located considerably closer to home. Given the large population that resides in SE Michigan, there is a need for numerous parks to accommodate both the numbers and the various recreational opportunities area residents and visitors enjoy. The Oakland County Park system was created in 1965 and has acquired more than 6,500 acres of public land, including significant and rare natural areas, and developed thirteen public parks. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) and Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority (HCMA) have also acquired and developed regional park and recreation facilities in Oakland County and elsewhere in SE Michigan to help ensure adequate public access to parks and recreation without overuse of the resource and recreation opportunities they desire. 1 Following decades of steady population growth, there has been a leveling off in southeastern Michigan since the 1970s. However, according to US Census data from 2000 to 2010, the total population of SE Michigan declined by 2.7 percent. Oakland County saw only a slight growth of 0.7 percent. However, the population of people aged 65+ in the area increased by 7.7 percent and, according to projections made by the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG), is expected to double from about 0.6 million in 2010 to 1.2 million by 2035. Meeting the recreational needs of this aging population will present new challenges for park and recreation providers. Chief among them will be the renovation and/or construction of facilities that meet or exceed the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act as aging Baby Boomers demand equal access to the natural areas and recreation opportunities they enjoy. This project proposes to improve and increase the access to boating and fishing at Addison Oaks Park by replacing an inaccessible fishing pier and installing a universally accessible canoe/kayak boat launch onto an accessible dock. The wooden dock system at the boat launch area has deteriorated such that OCPRC is replacing the existing docks with new, accessible docks during the summer of 2012. While not part of this proposal, these docks are an important part of a larger plan to improve the entire boat launch area and make it universally accessible. Budget and Grant justification Each year, staff for the OCPRC prepares a work plan budget to address the most critical maintenance and repair needs and capital improvement projects to meet the recreation needs of park users. When determining work plans, (1) protecting public health and safety, and (2) compliance with regulations, are always the two highest priorities. The work plan and budget for less critical maintenance, repair, and capital improvement costs are projected out over the next fifteen years. As can be expected, the needs of an aging park system always exceed the budget available. The boat launch project is a part of the "Boathouse, Buhl Lake" item listed on the capital improvement plan (CIP) for construction in 2013. The current boat house is actually more of a small booth from which boats and bicycles are rented. The boathouse item listed on the OP includes the overall renovation of the boat launch area including docks, parking lot, access routes, and boat launch, as well as a larger, accessible boat and bicycle storage building with restrooms. The fishing pier is listed on the capital improvement plan for construction in 2015. By using grant funds, OCPR can replace facilities that are past their life expectancy, not fully accessible, and/or inadequate for the current need, and provide new park experiences where there is a demand, sooner than otherwise possible. In addition, obtaining grant funds allows us to budget for facilities, such as these universally accessible facilities, which may cost somewhat more to build, but will provide better access, a smaller environmental footprint, and cost savings through decreased maintenance over the long-term. The maintenance of the fishing dock and boat launch will be incorporated into the grounds maintenance budgets of the park. Staff anticipates that the current costs for overall operation 2 and care of facilities within the park system will not significantly increase following the completion of this project. PROJECT DESIGN Location of Project. Addison Oaks Park was chosen as the park site for this project because of the deterioration and inadequacy of the existing boat launch facilities and fishing pier. The locations for the project sites within the park are the same as the current locations of these facilities. In addition, the boat launch area is located halfway between the camping and day use areas of the park. This location provides easy access within the park to both campers and day-users by means of a paved trail that encircles Buhl and Adams Lakes, and by use of the park roadway. Addison Oaks Park is located in Addison Township, in the northeast corner of the county. According to NRPA guidelines', regional parks such as Addison Oaks draw from a service area of about one hour driving time. Using one hour as a guide, it would be expected that people from Pontiac and Troy (within Oakland County) would be likely to visit the park, along with residents from Flint, Lapeer, Sterling Heights, Harrison Township, Richmond, Detroit, and the areas in- between. For the past three years, OCPRC has been collecting home zip codes from people using the park system. As the maps in attachments 1-3 indicate, the one-hour driving distance is a good approximation of the distance the majority of park users travel to visit this park. Other factors also influence people's choices of where to recreate, including the existence and proximity of other parks. In addition to Addison Oaks, other regional parks—Stony Creek Metropark, Bald Mountain State Park, Orion Oaks County Park, and Independence Oaks County Park—are all located in or near northeast Oakland County. Each park offers some of the same amenities, which are primarily natural resource-based, but none offers a universally accessible small boat launch, Given the population of 4.2 million people in Oakland County and the counties surrounding it, the amount of use supports multiple regional parks. In addition to access by car, bicyclists and pedestrians may access the park by means of the Polly Ann Trail. Bicyclists and pedestrians are not charged an entrance fee to Addison Oaks Park. The entrance to the park is about 2.3 miles away from the Polly Ann Trail, with compacted dirt roads providing the route into the park. As part of the county-wide Oak Routes Plan, Oakland County, Addison Township, Oakland Township, and the DNR have collaborated on plans for a trail connecting the Polly Ann Trail to Addison Oaks Park, Bald Mountain State Recreation Area, and Oakland Township's Cranberry Lake Park. The 2007 MNRTF grant to Oakland County (TF07-030) to build a connector trail along Romeo Road and through Addison Oaks Park is the first segment of this connector trail system to begin development. Finally, North Oakland Transit Authority provides free transportation to senior citizens, people with disabilities, and other transit-dependent residents of Addison, Oxford, and Orion Township to and from Addison Oaks Park, delivering and picking them up at the specific area of the park Recreation, Park, and Open Space Standards and Guidelines, National Recreation and Park Association, 1995. 3 the rider wishes to visit. People who arrive at the park by means of public transportation are not charged an entrance fee. Oakland County Parks and Recreation recognizes and provides assistance to people in communities in Oakland County who do not have the means to easily access Oakland County Parks. Since 1982, the County's Recreation Assistance Partnership Program (RAPP) has provided bus transportation to Oakland County Parks. One of the buses is fitted with a lift system for accessibility. The county hopes to eventually replace all buses with cleaner-running, accessible passenger vehicles. OCRPC also brings recreation facilities and programs to communities in the form of mobile stages, bounce houses, and other transportable recreation equipment. These services are available to any community in the county for a cost, but communities may apply for a grant to help offset the cost for their residents. Most recently, the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission approved $150,000 to support the 2012 program, demonstrating the strong support this program has from the commission. With the RAPP program, people who might not otherwise have the means to visit Oakland County parks or enjoy the programs and services we offer are able to do so at reduced cost and greater convenience. Design Choices/Universal Design The proposed kayak/canoe launch is a unique boat launch system that was conceived and put into production by a number of recreation professionals who were inspired by the Access to Recreation Initiative. To our knowledge, it is the best existing design to maximize accessibility to small boats for people with disabilities. However, OCPR will seek out other universally accessible launch systems to insure fairness, best price, and the product that best provides access. To ensure that there is access to the boast launch system, OCPR will construct the following prior to or during the project period: • Accessible floating docks to replace the fixed wooden docks. The dock holding the kayak/canoe launch will be ten feet wide. • Transition plates from the access route to the docks. • At least two accessible parking spots in the existing small parking lot (one currently exists). • Signs, tactile pads, and strong contrast pavement markings on the bicycle trail encircling Buhl Lake to warn both bicyclists on the trail and pedestrians that are crossing the trail to reach the boat launch. • Hard surface access route (60 inches wide) to the launch dock with a maximum 5% running slope and 2% cross slope. • A caddy for canoes and kayaks will be available free of charge use to transport small boats to the launch dock from the parking lot. The proposed fishing pier will be built with all lowered railings (34 inches maximum) to allow fishing from any part of the dock by people who use a wheel chair. There will a bench on the dock so that people can choose to sit and fish. At least one tackle box stand will be provided. There will be a 60 inch wide access route (maximum 5% running slope and 2% cross slope) 4 connecting the dock to the existing accessible paved trail, and transition plates between the access route and the dock. in addition, more than the required minimum number of accessible parking spaces will be created in the large day use parking lot and some of them will be located nearest to the accessible trail. Signs, strong contrast pavement markings, and tactile pads will be added to the existing trail to warn both bicyclists on the trail and pedestrians that are using the trail to reach the fishing dock. Environmental Sustainability Because the road way, parking lots, trail, and launch area have already been developed, replacing aging facilities at the same locations greatly reduces the need to clear or otherwise alter other, undisturbed sites within the park. At the small boat launch area, the parking lot and access routes will be surfaced with aggregate (meeting all accessibility requirements, including slope, firmness, stability, and slip resistance) to prevent surface runoff into the lake. The boat launch dock is made of polyethylene with hollow sections for floatation. The beige color allows sunlight to filter through and will not release chemicals into the water. Compared to wood, the materials are long-lasting and virtually maintenance-free, thus preventing environmental impact and saving cost from cleaning, painting, replacement, and employee time. In addition to the sustainable features of the facilities proposed in this application, Oakland County Parks has already established the following green initiatives: Recycling • Parks employees recycle paper, plastic, metals, batteries, lights and ink cartridges in special collection containers. • Recycling programs for patrons at all campgrounds, waterparks, golf courses and day use parks are being established. Cleaning products • All park facilities now utilize "green" cleaning products that are low in volatile organic compounds, reducing the amount of toxins in the air. Bio-fuel • All parks' equipment runs on bio-diesel fuel. • All parks use bio-lubricants for cleaning and lubricating equipment. Land & Mite! • All parks now have designated "no mow zones," which will decrease the amount of gas and energy used in maintaining park property and allows for natural plant progression. • Integrated Pest Management principles have been established system-wide to reduce the use of chemical pesticides. • Efforts are being made to propagate native plant material in Oakland County Parks' newly acquired greenhouses, for use on park property. 5 • An exemplary storm water management project has been installed at Waterford Oaks County Park to protect water quality in the Clinton River Watershed. • As parking lots at the parks are renovated, bio-swales are installed to collect storm water and help protect streams and tributaries within the watershed. Energy Conservation • Energy audits have recently been conducted at facilities to identify improvements for efficiency. These audits have provided valuable roadmaps for upgrades that will be done as funding sources allow. • Lighting changes funded through energy conservation grants have reduced energy consumption. • Employees participate in energy management procedures to eliminate the use of personal electronic devices at the workplace. • Energy management of HVAC systems is conducted at all park facilities through a computer program. • Equipment replacement with Energy Star Equipment is practiced. Recognition • Groveland Oaks is the first (non-golf course) park in Michigan to be environmentally certified by the Michigan Turfgrass Environmental Stewardship Program, All five Oakland County golf courses have also achieved certification. Safety and Crime Prevention Addison Oaks County Park has a large entrance sign that is standard to the park system. The park is fenced around its entire perimeter to prevent trespassing both into and out of the park onto private property. There are directional signs on all major roads near the site and continue on to direct travelers to the entrance. The entrance is monitored by means of a contact station, which is staffed twenty four hours a day when the campground is open (one week before Memorial Day until late October). Park hours are clearly posted and the entrance gate is closed at 9pm for day use visitors. Registered campers are allowed to enter and leave the park at any time as long as they have their camping pass in their vehicle. The park has street lights along the main campground road and exterior lighting at all bath houses and restrooms for the safety of visitors. The section of the paved trail that goes through the campground area is also illuminated by street lights. In addition, Oakland County Sheriff Officers patrol the park from Memorial Day through Labor Day and for special events during the shoulder seasons. The main roadway within the park from the entrance splits roughly east and west but dead ends in both directions, discouraging motor vehicle cruising within the park. Trails for the most part do not cross the park road. (The only exceptions are within the campground area and a short connector trail along the roadway from the bike rental area to the mountain bike trail). The roadway is located towards the perimeter of the park to avoid the areas of active park use. 6 The active use areas within the park are located to safely separate those that could create conflict and/or safety concerns. For example, only boating and fishing are allowed on Buhl Lake; swimming only is allowed on Adams Lake. Mountain bikers have a separate 6.8-mile, single track trail to avoid conflicts with other types of trail users. The mountain bike trail is one- way only to avoid bicycle collisions. All trails within the park are looped. Communications and Marketing The parks system's Communications and Marketing Unit functions as an in-house agency providing communications, marketing, promotions, advertising, media relations, photography, videography, design, printing, signage, and website content development for the county's 13 parks and golf courses. Information is communicated via the system's award-winning portaI 2, DestinationOakland.com , Facebook, Twitter, news releases, magazines, newspapers, and 300+ outside websites, including Travel Michigan. Community Connections Initiative, a quarterly newsletter, is emailed to all of Oakland County's cities, villages and townships and is posted on DestinationOakland.com . Additionally, e-marketing messages are sent to more than 91,000 individuals who have opted in to receive information on parks, programs, special events and discount offers. In 2011, a print campaign was initiated with The Oakland Press, a daily newspaper with a Sunday circulation of 72,000 and 3.5 million page views. The Special section focuses on outdoor recreation, including camping, golf, waterparks, and more. Four-color brochures are distributed twice annually at local libraries, Great Lakes Crossing Mall, real estate offices, boy/girl scouts, sports shops, city/village/township offices, recreation departments, chambers of commerce, and Oakland County offices. Oakland County has developed a very strong tie to the people it serves who have a disability. Our partnerships with more than 30 non-profit agencies, schools, and disabled sports organizations enable us to cooperatively provide and advertise unique recreation options. Two certified therapeutic recreation specialists and one special education teacher coordinate programs and assist individuals in participating in all programs. Inclusion services are offered to encourage and enhance opportunities for people with varying abilities to participate in programs and events hosted by Oakland County Parks. Oakland County Parks encourages and supports the participation of individuals with disabilities in all programs. 2 Recognized as an "Outstanding Agency Website" by the national organization, the Center for Digital Government, in 2010. Websites were judged on innovation, functionality, and efficiencies. 7 FISCAL NOTE (MISC . #12045) March 7,2012 BY: Finance Committee, Tom Middleton, Chairperson IN RE: PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION — SUPPORT OF APPLICATION FOR A MICHIGAN RECREATION PASSPORT PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT GRANT FOR ACCESSIBILITY IMPROVEMENTS AT ADDISON OAKS COUNTY PARK To the Oakland County Board of Commissioners Chairperson, Ladies and Gentlemen: Pursuant to Rule XII-C of this Board, the Finance Committee has reviewed the above referenced resolution and finds: 1. The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission has been notified by the Department of Natural Resources that application for cost sharing grants from the Recreation Passport Grant Program may be submitted by April 2, 2012. 2. This program ties in with the Commission's Strategic Master Plan to develop and implement a system-wide accessibility plan with the goal of creating American Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance. 3. Filing of the grant application to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources in the amount of $45,000 is recommended (75% of the total project costs) with a match of $15,000 (25%). 4. Matching funds are available in the FY2015 Parks and Recreation Capital Improvement Plan. 5. The funding period of this grant extends from November 2012 - November 2015. 6. No budget amendment is required at this time. FINANCE COMMITTEE FINANCE COMMITTEE Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote with Greimel absent. ( Resolution #12045 March 7, 2012 Moved by Taub supported by Gershenson the resolutions (with fiscal notes attached) on the amended Consent Agenda be adopted (with accompanying reports being accepted). AYES: Covey, Crawford, Dwyer, Gershenson, Gingell, Gosselin, Hatchett, Hoffman, Jackson, Long, Matis, McGillivray, Middleton, Nash, Nuccio, Potts, Quarles, Runestad, Scott, Taub, Weipert, Woodward, Zack, Bosnic. (24) NAYS: None. (0) A sufficient majority having voted in favor, the resolutions (with fiscal notes attached) on the amended Consent Agenda were adopted (with accompanying reports being accepted). I HEREBY APPRO THE RARING.' RESOLUTION STATE OF MICHIGAN) COUNTY OF OAKLAND) I, Bill Bullard Jr., Clerk of the County of Oakland, do hereby certify that the foregoing resolution is a true and accurate copy of a resolution adopted by the Oakland County Board of Commissioners on March 7, 2012, with the original record thereof now remaining in my office. In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the County of Oakland at Pontiac, Michigan this 7th day of March, 2012. eud2,a_efl Bill Bullard Jr., Oakland County