HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 2011.06.01 - 39262OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING
June 1, 2011
Chairman Fisher called the meeting to order at 9:10 a.m. in the commission room of the Parks Commission's
administration office.
COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT:
Chairman Gerald Fisher, Secretary J. David VanderVeen, Chairperson Emeritus Pecky D. Lewis, Jr.,
Robert Kostin, Christine Long, Joseph Colaianne, Gary McGillivray, John Scott
Mr. Colaianne attended as Vice Chairman McCulloch's representative.
COMMISSION MEMBERS ABSENT WITH NOTICE:
Eric Wilson
ALSO PRESENT:
Parks and Recreation
OC Fiscal Services
OC Corporation Counsel
OC Facilities Maintenance
Past Parks Commissioner
Private Citizen
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Daniel Stencil, Executive Officer
Susan Wells, Manager-P & R Operations
Mike Donnellon, Chief -Parks Fac., Maint. & Ops.
Terry Fields, Chief - Recreation Programs & Services
Jim Dunleavy, Chief, Parks Ops. & Maint. — N. District
Larry Gee, Chief, Parks Ops. & Maint. — S. District
Karen Kohn, Supervisor — Administrative Services
Desiree Stanfield, Communications Supervisor
Tim Nowicki, Recreation Program Supervisor
Lynn Conover, Parks Naturalist
Kathleen Dougherty, Educational Resource Specialist
Brittany Bird, Natural Resources Planner
Matt Bierlein, Intern
Jeff Phelps, Supervisor II
Jody Hall, Assistant Corporation Counsel
Mike Hughson, Property Management Specialist
Charles Palmer
Fay Palmer
Moved by Mr. Scott, supported by Mr. McGillivray to approve the minutes of the regular
meeting of May 4, 2011, as written.
AYES: Fisher, Kostin, Lewis, Long, Colaianne, McGillivray, Scott, VanderVeen (8)
NAYS: (0)
Motion carried on a voice vote.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
Moved by Mr. Lewis, supported by Mr. Kostin to approve the agenda as presented.
AYES: Fisher, Kostin, Lewis, Long, Colaianne, McGillivray, Scott, VanderVeen (8)
NAYS: (0)
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(Commission Meeting, June 1, 2011)
Motion carried on a voice vote.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
There were no comments or questions received by the public.
CONSENT AGENDA:
Moved by Mrs. Long, supported by Mr. Scott to approve all items under the Consent Agenda
as follows: Internal Service Funds Journal Voucher Register for month ending 4/30/11 (FM 7,
FY 11); Payment Register for month ending 4/30/11 (FM 7, FY 11); Monthly Financial
Statement Executive Summary for month ending 4/30/11 (FM 7, FY 11); and Second Quarter
FY 2011 Forecast.
AYES: Fisher, Kostin, Lewis, Long, Colaianne, McGillivray, Scott, VanderVeen (8)
NAYS: (0)
Motion carried on a voice vote.
RECOGNITION PRESENTATION — CHARLES PALMER:
Parks Commissioner Charles Palmer submitted his resignation to Oakland County Board of Commissioners
Chairman Gingell in May, effective immediately.
Chairperson Emeritus Lewis shared a brief history of Mr. Palmer's accomplishments during his public service
to the residents of Oakland County. Chairman Fisher presented Mr. Palmer with a plaque in recognition of his
years of service and dedication on the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission.
PARTNERSHIP PRESENTATION: WATERFORD MOTT HIGH SCHOOL— WATER QUALITY TESTING AT
WATERFORD OAKS:
Mrs. Gannon-Piacentini's Honors Geophysical students participated in a Stream Leaders Program through the
Clinton River Watershed Council, in which they performed water quality testing at Waterford Oaks. The
students presented a video they prepared of the work/testing performed.
STAFF INTRODUCTION:
Matt Bierlein, a student at Central Michigan University, is working with Chief of Parks Operations and
Maintenance — North District Jim Dunleavy as an intern. Matt will be working on several projects, including
Emergency Action Plans, Independence Oaks -North Grand Opening, the Oakland County Fair, and the staff
and Board of Commissioners' FAM Tours.
FY 2012 PROPOSED OPERATING BUDGET ADOPTION:
Moved by Mr. Scott, supported by Mr. Colaianne to adopt the 2012 General Appropriations
Act of $23,107,000 and the subsequent Operating Expense Budget of $23,107,000 (as
shown in the 2012 Operating Budget Book).
Moved by Mr. Colaianne, supported by Mr. McGillivray to amend the motion to adopt the
2012 General Appropriations Act of $23,107,000 and the subsequent Operating Expense
Budget of $23,107,000 (as shown in the 2012 Operating Budget Book) with the following
change: On Page 80, reduce the total expenditures for the Independence Oaks Nature
Program to $234,400 with the balance of $234,400 added to Operating Budget Contingency.
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VOTE ON THE AMENDMENT TO THE MOTION:
AYES: Fisher, Kostin, Lewis, Long, Colaianne, McGillivray, Scott, VanderVeen (8)
NAYS: (0)
Amendment to the motion carried on a voice vote.
VOTE ON THE MOTION AS AMENDED:
AYES: Fisher, Kostin, Lewis, Long, Colaianne, McGillivray, Scott, VanderVeen (8)
NAYS: (0)
Motion as amended carried on a voice vote.
Staff will make a presentation on the nature interpretive program/nature center at the September meeting,
including recommendations on the W int Nature Center, continuing efficiencies, consolidation/collaboration with
other nature centers in the region, and outreach programs.
RED OAKS GOLF COURSE TUFF SHED BUILDING AND SITE DEMOLITION/RESTORATION:
Moved by Mr. McGillivray, supported by Mr. Lewis to advise the Oakland County Water
Resource Commissioners staff to proceed with the contract to Springline Excavating, LLC for
the demolition and restoration of the existing building and site for the recently purchased Tuff
Shed property along John R immediately in front of the Red Oaks Golf Course Pro Shop in
the amount of $54,757.00; and the contract to DTE Energy to remove several utility poles and
lines from the site in the amount of $14,628.00; plus a five percent contingency of $3,470.00,
for a total amount of $72,855.00. Also, to approve the transfer of $35,432.00 from the FY
2011 Capital Improvement Program Contingency to the site demolition/restoration project.
AYES: Fisher, Kostin, Lewis, Long, Colaianne, McGillivray, Scott, VanderVeen (8)
NAYS: (0)
Motion carried on a voice vote.
Staff noted the benefits of this property acquisition, including the greater visibility of the golf course, potential
training facility/putting area, and a green belt for the pro shop building. In addition, we will have the opportunity
to provide a connector trail along the property line north to Thirteen Mile Road.
CONSUMERS ENERGY COMPANY EASEMENT RESOLUTION — ORION OAKS:
Moved by Mr. McGillivray, supported by Mr. VanderVeen to adopt the following resolution
recommending approval of an easement to Consumers Energy at Orion Oaks County Park:
WHEREAS, Oakland County owns and the Parks and Recreation Commission
operates the Orion Oaks County Park, located at 2301 Clarkston Road in Orion Township;
and
WHEREAS, Consumers Energy Company owns and operates an 8-inch high-
pressure gas main located within the park parallel and adjacent to the Joslyn Road Right -of -
Way since 1961; and
WHEREAS, Consumers Energy Company desires to connect the new Orion
Township Senior Center to the existing gas main by June 1, 2011; and
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WHEREAS, Oakland County Parks and Recreation, Corporation Counsel, and
Property Management staff are actively working with Orion Township and Consumers Energy
Company to make the necessary connections.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Oakland County Parks and
Recreation Commission hereby requests that the Oakland County Board of Commissioners
authorize and approve the granting of the easement to Consumers Energy Company to
connect their existing high-pressure gas main at Orion Oaks County Park to the Orion
Township Senior Center.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission hereby requests that the Oakland County Board of Commissioners direct its
Chairperson or designee to execute said easement.
AYES: Fisher, Kostin, Lewis, Long, Colaianne, McGillivray, Scott, VanderVeen (8)
NAYS: (0)
Motion carried on a voice vote.
Property Management Specialist Mike Hughson noted there are two sections of pipeline along Joslyn that
were relocated outside the road right-of-way in 1961, but no easement were obtained. County staff is working
with Consumers Energy staff to get those two easements in place. ,
INDEPENDENCE OAKS -NORTH PARKING LOT CHANGE ORDER:
Moved by Mr. Scott, supported by Mr. Lewis to increase the contract with James P.
Contracting, Inc. for the construction of the public access at Independence Oaks -North in the
amount of $10,719.70 for approval of two field change orders --to remove and replace the
existing paved road shoulder where the new approach meets Sashabaw Road and install
owner -supplied gravel for approximately 1,200 linear feet of gravel trail connecting the
parking lot to the new boardwalk --for a total contract amount of $70,249.70. Also, to approve
the transfer of $7,742 from the FY 2011 Capital Improvement Program Plan Contingency to
the Independence Oaks -North New Gravel Parking Lot Project.
AYES: Fisher, Kostin, Lewis, Long, Colaianne, McGillivray, Scott, VanderVeen (8)
NAYS: (0)
Motion carried on a voice vote.
PROPOSED POLICY ON THE SALE OF ALCOHOL IN PARK FACILITIES:
Moved by Mr. Scott, supported by Mr. VanderVeen to approve the policy on the sale of
alcohol in park facilities.
AYES: Fisher, Kostin, Lewis, Long, Colaianne, McGillivray, Scott, VanderVeen (8)
NAYS: (0)
Motion carried on a voice vote.
Chairman Fisher noted this policy will ultimately be incorporated in the Commission's Rules and Regulations
for approval by the Oakland County Board of Commissioners.
JULY IS NATIONAL PARKS AND RECREATION MONTH RESOLUTION:
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Moved by Mrs. Long, supported by Mr. Kostin to adopt the following resolution recommending
approval of July as National Parks and Recreation Month:
WHEREAS, the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission's mission is to
provide all residents of Oakland County with recreational, leisure, and learning experiences,
parks, open spaces, and facilities, resulting in a comprehensive county park system that
enhances quality of life; and
WHEREAS, parks, recreation activities, and leisure experiences provide
opportunities for young people to live, grow, and develop into contributing members of
society; and
WHEREAS, parks and recreation creates lifelines and continued life experiences for
older members of our community; and
WHEREAS, parks and recreation generates opportunities for people to come
together and experience a sense of community through fun recreational pursuits; and
WHEREAS, parks and recreation agencies provide outlets for physical activities,
socialization, and stress -reducing experiences; and
WHEREAS, parks, playgrounds, nature trails, open spaces, community and cultural
centers, and historic sites make communities attractive and desirable places to live, work,
play, and visit, in a manner that contributes to our ongoing economic vitality; and
WHEREAS, parks, greenways, and open spaces provide a welcome respite from
our fast -paced, high-tech lifestyles while simultaneously protecting and preserving our natural
environment; and
WHEREAS, parks and recreation agencies touch the lives of individuals, families,
groups, and the entire community, which positively impacts upon the social, economic,
health, and environmental quality of our community.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Oakland County Parks and
Recreation Commission hereby requests the Oakland County Board of Commissioners
proclaim July as National Parks and Recreation Month.
AYES: Fisher, Kostin, Lewis, Long, Colaianne, McGillivray, Scott, VanderVeen (8)
NAYS: (0)
Motion carried on a voice vote.
LEWIS E. WINT NATURE CENTER/FRIENDSHIP WOODS FOLLOW-UP REPORT:
In response to Commission directive, staff presented information on the nature interpretive program, one of
the Commission's core program service areas identified in the Strategic Master Plan. The presentation
included information on operational efficiencies in the Lewis E. W int Nature Center, cost and staff reductions,
increases in program pricing and marketing efforts, with continued focus on maintaining a high level of
interpretive services to the residents of Oakland County.
Additional considerations:
• Reducing nature center hours/days of operation and/or targeted times of the year
• How best to use skilled full-time/part-time non -eligible staff
• Marketing efforts to the Boy Scouts of America and Girl Scouts of America
• Regionalization/collaboration with other nature centers in the county
Staff noted that nature centers in the county were recently invited to participate in a survey to assist in better
understanding the market they serve. Staff will share those results with the Commission once they are
tabulated.
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Future direction includes:
• Explore regional operations and partnerships
• Evaluate nature center hours of operation and level of staffing, including increased use of volunteers
• Continue to evaluate and explore nature interpretive trends, including our outreach program and use
of the facility
• Develop program plans for presentation at the September Commission meeting
• Adjust the FY 2012 Operating Budget in October, per Commission and staff recommendations, to
support the new vision
• Commission consideration to amend the pricing policy to include the level of cost recovery to be
established for the facility
ACTIVITY REPORT:
The Activity Report for April (FM 07 FY 2011) was accepted as filed.
EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S REPORT:
In addition to the Executive Officer's report filed in the agenda, the following information was noted:
---Update on the State of Michigan's Recreation Passport Program, with $9 million in revenues as of May 18.
---The sale of 6,000 waterpark passes facilitated through a recent Groupon.com offer.
---Parks will be hosting a park tour for all county and park commissioners on Wednesday, June 8.
--Oakland County Parks and Recreation was recognized by Centro Multicultural La Familia, Inc. for
spearheading an indoor community garden program at the Waterford Oaks Greenhouse and by Oakland
County Executive L. Brooks Patterson for its partnership in the Count Your Steps Program.
---Staff provided a summary of current coyote management practices and associated public education efforts.
OLD BUSINESS:
None
NEW BUSINESS:
None
The next Commission meeting will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 6, 2011.
Meetina was adCdurned at 11:10 a.m.
J. David VanderVee`h, Secretary Karen S. Kohn CPS/CAP, Recording Secretary
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