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HomeMy WebLinkAboutResolutions - 2024.03.14 - 41054 AGENDA ITEM: Grant Application TF24-0047 to the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund for the Acquisition of 71.17 Acres of Property in Troy DEPARTMENT: Parks & Recreation MEETING: Board of Commissioners DATE: Thursday, March 14, 2024 9:30 AM - Click to View Agenda ITEM SUMMARY SHEET COMMITTEE REPORT TO BOARD Resolution #2024-3924 _ 24-15 Motion to adopt the attached suggested resolution. ITEM CATEGORY SPONSORED BY Grant Brendan Johnson INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND Oakland County Parks and Recreation has been working for the past several years with the Six Rivers Land Conservancy and Troy School District to acquire the 69.5-acre "Turtle Woods" property in Troy as well as an adjacent 1.67-acre residential parcel for road access and parking. OCPR applied to the Trust Fund in 2023 for this acquisition but unfortunately was not funded due to the large volume of applications and a grant score that was below the funding threshold for that year. OCPR has worked with the Troy School District to increase their match contribution to the grant for the 2024 application, which will score additional points and hopefully result in a funded project this round. The School District has agreed to donate 50% of the value of the property as match (last year it was 25%). This equates to a $1.875M value donation. The goal for Turtle Woods is to operate it as an Oakland County Parks Nature Preserve, providing trails, boardwalks and scenic wildlife overlooks in this rapidly developing area of the county. The property is home to rare natural communities and several rare species of plants, as well as the Blandings Turtle, a state species of concern. POLICY ANALYSIS BUDGET AMENDMENT REQUIRED: No Committee members can contact Michael Andrews, Policy and Fiscal Analysis Supervisor at 248.425.5572 or andrewsmb@oakgov.com or the department contact persons listed for additional information. CONTACT Melissa Prowse, Manager - Parks & Recreation Planning & Development ITEM REVIEW TRACKING Aaron Snover, Board of Commissioners Created/Initiated - 3/14/2024 David Woodward, Board of Commissioners Approved - 3/14/2024 Hilarie Chambers, Executive's Office Approved - 3/14/2024 Lisa Brown, Clerk/Register of Deeds Final Approval - 3/15/2024 AGENDA DEADLINE: 03/14/2024 9:30 AM ATTACHMENTS 1. Draft Trust Fund Application 2024 Turtle Woods 2. Grant Review Sign-Off TF24-0047 Turtle Woods APP 3. Turtle Woods Presentation 2024 COMMITTEE TRACKING 03-05-2024 Legislative Affairs & Government Operations - Recommend to Board 03-14-2024 Full Board - Adopt Motioned by: Commissioner Philip Weipert Seconded by: Commissioner Linnie Taylor Yes: David Woodward, Penny Luebs, Karen Joliat, Kristen Nelson, Christine Long, Robert Hoffman, Philip Weipert, Gwen Markham, Angela Powell, William Miller III, Yolanda Smith Charles, Charles Cavell, Ajay Raman, Ann Erickson Gault, Linnie Taylor (15) No: None (0) Abstain: None (0) Absent: Michael Spisz, Marcia Gershenson, Brendan Johnson, Michael Gingell (4) Passed March 14, 2024 RESOLUTION #2024-3924 _ 24-15 Sponsored By: Brendan Johnson Parks & Recreation - Grant Application TF24-0047 to the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund for the Acquisition of 71.17 Acres of Property in Troy Chair and Members of the Board: WHEREAS Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission requests to apply for a grant in the amount of $2,175,000 from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (grant application TF24- 0047) for the acquisition of 71.17 acres in Troy (“Turtle Woods”); and WHEREAS the 71.17 acres includes 69.5 acres of undeveloped land commonly referred to as “Turtle Woods” as well as an adjacent 1.67 acre residential parcel to be used for access and parking; and WHEREAS Oakland County is hereby making a financial commitment to the project in the amount of $425,000 in cash matching funds; and WHEREAS the sale of the property is being discounted by 50% or a match donated value of $1,875,000 by Troy School District in their purchase agreement with Six Rivers Land Conservancy, which will be assigned to Oakland County if/when a grant is awarded. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Oakland County Board of Commissioners supports and approves the grant application to the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund for $2,175,000 to purchase 71.17 acres of land in Troy for the creation of a nature preserve. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that staff is authorized to submit the electronic application on behalf of the Oakland County Board of Commissioners. Chair, the following Commissioners are sponsoring the foregoing Resolution: Brendan Johnson. Date: March 14, 2024 David Woodward, Commissioner Date: March 14, 2024 Hilarie Chambers, Deputy County Executive II Date: March 15, 2024 Lisa Brown, County Clerk / Register of Deeds COMMITTEE TRACKING 03-05-2024 Legislative Affairs & Government Operations - Recommend to Board 03-14-2024 Full Board - Adopt Motioned by Commissioner Philip Weipert seconded by Commissioner Linnie Taylor to adopt the attached Grant: Grant Application TF24-0047 to the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund for the Acquisition of 71.17 Acres of Property in Troy. Yes: David Woodward, Penny Luebs, Karen Joliat, Kristen Nelson, Christine Long, Robert Hoffman, Philip Weipert, Gwen Markham, Angela Powell, William Miller III, Yolanda Smith Charles, Charles Cavell, Ajay Raman, Ann Erickson Gault, Linnie Taylor (15) No: None (0) Abstain: None (0) Absent: Michael Spisz, Marcia Gershenson, Brendan Johnson, Michael Gingell (4) Passed ATTACHMENTS 1. Draft Trust Fund Application 2024 Turtle Woods 2. Grant Review Sign-Off TF24-0047 Turtle Woods APP 3. Turtle Woods Presentation 2024 STATE OF MICHIGAN) COUNTY OF OAKLAND) I, Lisa Brown, 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 14, 2024, 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 Circuit Court at Pontiac, Michigan on Thursday, March 14, 2024. Lisa Brown, Oakland County Clerk / Register of Deeds Section A: Applicant Site and Proj ect Inform ation Instructions: 1. Click Sav e to save changes. 2. See the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application Guidelines here for guidance. M ichigan Natural Re source s Trust Fund 2024 Grant Application This information is requested by authority of Part 19 of Act 451 of 1994, to be considered for a recreation grant. Is the application for site development or land acquisition? Development [X] Acquisition *Name of Applicant (Government Unit) Oakland County *SIGMA Vendor Number CV0048080 *SIGMA Address ID 172 *Name of Authoriz ed Representative Melissa Prowse Address 2800 Watkins Lake Rd *County Oakland County Telephone (248) 858-4620 *State House District District 57 *State Senate District District 9 *U.S. Congress District District 11 The following link contains District Maps - https://www.michigan.gov/micrc/mapping-process/final-maps *Proposal Title (Not to exceed 60 characters) Turtle Woods Acquisition *Proposal Description Acquisition of 71 acres of forested property as a Nature Preserve located north of Square Lake Rd between John R. and Dequindre in Troy. Due to its size and abundant natural resources this property provides easy access to nature in a densely populated region. The site will be developed as a nature preserve, with minimal improvements to facilitate quiet enjoyment of nature. *Title Manager City Waterford State MI *ZIP 48328 *E-mail prowsem@oakgov.com Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 *Park Name Turtle Woods Nature Preserve (upon acquisition) *Address of Site 2403 E Square Lake Rd *City, Village or Township of Site Troy *Zip 48085 *Latitude/Longitude at park entrance 42.608117 -83.101789 *Site Location - Please place a pin at the entrance of the park 42.608117, -83.101789 *County in which Site is located Oakland County $$$ Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 Section B: Proj ect Funding and Explanation of Match Sources Instructions: 1. Click Sav e to save changes. 2. See the Natural Resources Trust Fund Application Guidelines here for guidance. SOURCES OF MATCHING FUNDS PROJECT COST AMOUNTS *Grant amount requested (round to the nearest hundred dollars)$2,175,000 Total Match (Must be at least 25% of total project cost)$2,300,000 Total Project Cost (Must equal the total estimated cost on Section C: Project Details page)$4,475,000 Percentage of match commitment (M ust be at least 25% of total project cost)51 % a) General Funds or Local Restricted Funds (Applicant's own cash)$425,000 b) Force Account Labor/Materials (Applicant's own paid labor or materials)$ c) Federal or State Funds $ *Administering Agency *Contact Name for Administering Agency *Telephone *Amount $ *Type of Funds Grant funds awarded Date grant funds approved Grant funds applied for, not yet approved Estimated approval date Appropriated funds Date appropriated *Is documentation containing the scope of work and budget for the other grant funds included with application? Yes No *Is documentation (such as grant approval letter) that verifies the availability of funds included in the application? Yes Check to add program information for additional State or Federal funds that will be used as Match. *(2) Program Name Other, explain No Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 *Administering Agency *Contact Name for Administering Agency *Telephone *Type of Funds Grant funds awarded Date grant funds approved Grant funds applied for, not yet approved Estimated approval date Appropriated funds Date appropriated *Is documentation containing the scope of work and budget for the other grant funds included with application? Yes No *Is documentation (such as grant approval letter) that verifies the availability of funds included in the application? Yes No d) Cash Donations $ e) Donated Labor and/or Materials f) Donated Land Value (acquisition applications only)$1,875,000 You have entered a value for item f). Please describe how the value of the land donation was determined. * * Is a letter from the landowner committing to the donation of a portion of fair market value and any conditions placed upon their commitment included with application? [X] Yes No *(3) Program Name *Amount $ Other, explain $ OCPR had an appraisal done for the Turtle Woods property in January 2023. The estimated property value is $3,750,000. TSD used 50% of this number to determine the value they would donate. Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 Section C1: Proj ect Details Instructions: 1. All required fields are marked with an *. 2. Use the Save button to save text and calculate data on each page. 3. Save at least every 30 minutes to avoid losing data. 4. See the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application Guidelines here for guidance. 5. You may upload a cost breakdown in the required uploads page as supporting documentation. Land Acquisition Applications ONLY *Interest acquired will be (check all that apply) Fee Simple Easement Other *What are the current land uses that exist on the parcel? (check all that apply) [X]Undeveloped/natural land Agricultural [X]Residential Commercial (including timber extraction) Recreational Other (describe) *Any buildings on the site? *Any encroachments or boundary disputes with neighbors? *Was an assessor, appraiser, broker or listing used to justify the estimated appraised value? If yes, please provide expert documentation in the Required Attachments page. Parcel Information Table *Itemize estimated cost information for each parcel. For phased projects, the parcels and dollar amounts provided should include all phases. LANDOWNER ACREAGE STATE EQUALIZED VALUE (SEV) (1) ESTIMATED APPRAISED VALUE ($) Six Rivers Land Conservancy Darrol Colberg TOTALS 71 $123,190 $4,450,000 [X] No [X] Yes [X] No Yes No [X] Yes 69.50 $0 $3,750,000 1.67 $123,190 $700,000 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 (2) ESTIMATED INCIDENTAL COSTS Prorated Taxes $4,000 Recording Fees $200 Transfer Tax Title Insurance Appraisal Fees Closing Fees TOTAL APPRAISED VALUE (1) Environmental Assessment Costs$5,000 TOTAL INCIDENTAL COSTS (2) TOTAL $25,000 TOTAL ACQUISITION COSTS Comments: There is a residential home on the property owned by Mr. and Mrs. Colberg. OCPR would remove the home to develop parking. The Turtle Woods property was appraised by a contracted appraiser by OCPR. The Colberg parcel value is estimated by Oakland County's property specialist, who is also an appraiser, based on local comparables and discussions with the Colbergs. The SEV is misleading as the house has remained in the family for multiple generations and has had no sale transactions for decades. They may potentially split their lot into 3 buildable lots before they sell, which would possibly account for a higher appraised value. The $700,000 estimate includes this potential split into 3 buildable lots by estimating $150,000 each for the two empty lots and $400,000 for the middle lot with the home on it. The Colbergs indicated to OCPR staff in January 2024 that they still want to sell their home and move this year. Six Rivers is working to potentially secure the property if needed. $6,000 $2,600 $5,000 $2,200 $4,450,000 $25,000 $4,475,000 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 Section D: Justification of Need Instructions: 1. Click Sav e to save changes. 2. See the Natural Resources Trust Fund Application Guidelines here for guidance. *2) Is this a duplicate application that has been previously applied for funding under one of our Recreation Grant Programs that was not funded? No [X]Yes Is this a duplicate application that is being applied for this application cycle under one of our Recreation Grant Programs?[X]No Yes *3) What page(s) of your recreation plan is the need for the proposed project discussed? If proposed project is on only one page, please enter the page number in both boxes *4) What was the date(s) of public meeting to discuss submission of the grant application? *5) Did you gather public input from individuals with disabilities, their families, or advocates? No [X] Yes *6) Are you the primary provider of recreation services to any surrounding communities, as documented in your recreation plan? [X] No Yes List Communities: *1) If you are submitting multiple acquisition or development applications, what is the priority for this application? (1 = highest) 1 If yes, please list the application number. TF23-0039 From: 243 To: 246 2/21/2024 Additional dates: 3/6/2024 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 *7) Explain how you plan to address safety considerations and crime prevention in the project area? OCPR contracts with the OC Sheriff’s Office to provide Deputies who regularly patrol our parks. Additional measures that increase safety include park signage clearly noting hours of operation, and who to call in an emergency. Parking areas will be lit (with appropriate fixtures) and any restrooms, trash receptacles, trailhead signage, etc. will be well-lit. OCPR staff patrol our parks on a regular basis to clean restrooms, empty trash, answer questions, etc., providing a consistent presence. *8) Explain how you will make the public aware of the project, as well as the efforts you will use to publiciz e and promote your project. Include marketing methods that will effectively communicate with persons with disabilities. Many people in Troy are already aware of the project-we’ve had many residents express their gratitude that OCPR is looking to acquire and operate the property as a nature preserve. A public Open House Feb 21st was heavily publicized on social media and in the Oak Press and very well attended. Our county web site is being overhauled to be more accessible, and we are working to publish information in multiple languages and formats. The disability community will be directly engaged in planning. *9) Does the applicant have a formal recreation department or committee? Please explain below. For park committees, describe how members are appointed, their roles and responsibilities. List of members and meeting schedule. Oakland Co Parks and Recreation has a formal Commission (PC) which reports up to the OC Board of Commissioners. The PC consists of 10 appointed members, 6 elected officials and 4 members of the public. The Commission meets the 1st Wed of the month at 2:00 p.m. at 2800 Watkins Lake Road, Waterford. Ebony Bagley, Chair, Dave VanderVeen, Vice Chair, Andrea LaFontaine, Secretary, Lola Banks, Ann Erickson Gault, Christine Long, Jim Nash, Nancy Quarles, Yolanda Smith-Charles, Shanell Weatherspoon Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 Section E: Application History and Stewardship Instructions: 1. Click Sav e to save changes. 2. See the Natural Resources Trust Fund Application Guidelines here for guidance. NO YES *1) Questions 1 is for acquisition applications only - for development projects, leave blank and move to question 2. Will the applicant have adequate funds on hand to complete the acquisition transaction without any third party assistance (i.e. loans, lines of credit, etc.) until partial reimbursement and final audit is completed (approximately 180 days after closing)? If yes, please provide documentation that supports this on the Required Attachments page. *2) Has applicant received DNR recreation grant(s) in the past?[X] If yes, does applicant currently have an open, active grant?[X] *3) Has applicant closed, sold, or transferred any parkland or recreation facilities in the past 5 years? (If yes, provide comments below.)[X] * 4) Does applicant have a known unresolved conversion of grant-assisted parkland? (Note: a conversion is a change from public outdoor recreation use to some other use.) (If yes, provide comments below.) [X] *5) Does applicant have a "residents only" policy for this park or other parks or recreation facilities? (If yes, provide comments below.) [X] *6) Do you now or do you intend in the future to charge an entrance fee to the project site?[X] Comments: We did convert property at Independence Oaks in the past 5 years - by selling a house on Sashabaw Road to a local historic preservation group, and also by allowing the Road Commission for Oakland County to install a round-about at Sashabaw and Oak Hill which required approximately 1,000 square feet of the corner of the park at that intersection. Both conversions are mitigated with the acquisition of 3.4 acres of wetland property adjacent to the park. Conversion mitigation paperwork was sent to MDNR in December 2022 for review/approval and conditional approval was received from DNR staff in March 2023. [X] *7) What is the applicant's current year budget for parks and recreation? $38,261,000.00 *8) What are the estimated operation and maintenance costs associated with the project? $150,000.00 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 Section F: Site Conditions Instructions: 1. 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. 2. If you answer Y ES or UNKNOWN to questions 1-15, you are required to prepare an environmental report. See the Natural Resources Trust Fund Application Guidelines here for guidance. 3. Click Sav e to save changes. NO YES UNKNOWN *1) Does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge that any portion of the property 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? [X] *2) Does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge that any portion of the property 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? [X] *3) Does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge that any of the following are or 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? [X] *4) Does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge that fill dirt or other fill material of unknown origin is on this property or has in the past been placed on the property?[X] *5) Does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge of any evidence of leaks, spills, or stains from a substance other than water at this time or in the past?[X] *6) Does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge that there are or have in the past been waste disposal pits, lagoons, or ponds on the property?[X] *7) Does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge that there are at this time or have in the past been registered or unregistered storage tanks on the property?[X] *8) Does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge that contaminated groundwater lies below the property?[X] *9) If there is a water well on the property, does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge that contaminants have been identified in the well that exceeded legal standards or has the well been identified as contaminated by a government agency? *10) Has the landowner been notified about any current violations of environmental laws pertaining to activities on the property or does applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge about past violations? [X] *11) Has the landowner been notified of any environmental assessments of the property that identified a) the presence of hazardous substances, petroleum products, or contamination; or b) the need for further assessment? [X] *12) Does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge that any hazardous substances, unidentified waste materials, tires, or automotive or industrial batteries have been dumped above ground, buried, or burned on the property? [X] *13) Is the property listed on any federal or state list of contaminated sites, including the site of a leaking underground storage tank?[X] *14) Does the applicant, landowner, or others have knowledge that any of the adjoining properties are currently being used or have been used in the past for the purposes listed in the previous questions 1-13? [X] [X] Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 *15) Has an environmental assessment been completed for the site?[X] If yes, please provide documentation that supports this on the Required Attachments page. *16) Are permits required for the development of the site?[X] If yes, please complete the following table: TYPE OF PERMIT PERMITTING AGENCY EFFORTS TAKEN TO OBTAIN PERMIT OR DETERMINING PERMIT REQUIREMENTS Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control not yet begun permitting process EGLE Wetland Permits not yet begun permitting process EMRIP Enrollment would enroll this new property in CCAA for eastern massasauga If 'Yes' or 'Unknown' was selected for any of the questions on this page, please explain here: Oakland County Water Resource Commission Michigan EGLE Michigan DNR Phase I and Phase II Environmental Assessments completed as well as a Due Care Plan for the property. The Phase II indicated groundwater contamination at the far north end of the property, where groundwater is flowing onto the property south from the golf course (former quarry/landfill). The Due Care Plan indicates that no response action is needed unless plans change and the site is developed. We will not be utilizing a well for drinking water at the site. Development is several years out if the property is acquired, so no development permits have yet been applied for. Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 Section G: Natural Features of The Proj ect Site Instructions: 1. Click Sav e to save changes. 2. Great Lakes connecting waters are defined in the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application Guidelines. 3. See the Natural Resources Trust Fund Application Guidelines here for guidance. To the best of your knowledge, does the project site include: *Great Lakes shoreline or Great Lakes connecting water frontage? [X] No Yes *Inland lake frontage? *River and/or tributary frontage? Is the river or tributary a state natural river or a federally dedicated wild and scenic river? *Wetland acreage or frontage? If yes, please list the number of acres of the type(s) of wetland(s) on site: Marsh 11.72 Forest 24.00 Boreal Forest Fen Shrub Type unknown Is documentation of type and quality with application? No If yes, source of information: ASTI Baseline_Ecological Assessment 2016 *Other water acreage or frontage? *Sand dunes? [X] No Yes No [X] Yes If yes, name of water body: Stream Frontage - Chrissman Drain How many linear feet of frontage? 2,950 [X] No Yes No [X] Yes Bog Dune and swale complex Prairie 9.00 [X] Yes [X] No Yes Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 *Dedicated state or federal listed wilderness or dedicated natural area or Pigeon River County State Forest land or inholding? *Rare species or any other significant feature as defined by the Michigan Natural Features Inventory? No [X] Yes if too many to list here, include in the application narrative. Population/range locations denoted on site plan or other map? [X] No Yes [X] No Yes [X] No Yes If yes, list species or feature and status.Historic occurence of spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata), state threatened. Significant population of Blanding's Turtles, species of special concern. Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 Section H: W ildlife Values of The Proj ect Site Instructions: 1. Click Sav e to save changes. 2. See the Natural Resources Trust Fund Application Guidelines here for guidance. Will the proposed park or park development: * Protect wildlife habitat (for example, breeding grounds, winter deeryards, den sites)?No [X] Yes If yes, list species: How many acres of habitat does the site provide? *Act as a wildlife corridor between existing protected areas or buffer an existing protected area? Turtles, migratory birds, plants, EMR 69.50 [X] No Yes Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 Section I: Natural Resource Recreation Opportunities Instructions: 1. Click Sav e to save changes. 2. See the Natural Resources Trust Fund Application Guidelines here for guidance. Will the proposed park or park development provide new or additional: *Water recreation opportunities?[X] No *Motorized recreation opportunities (ORV and/or Snowmobile)?[X] No *Hunting Opportunities?[X] No *Fishing opportunities? *Bird watching or other nature viewing opportunities? If yes, what species can be viewed? *Nature interpretation or education opportunities?No If yes, how are the interpretation or education opportunities provided? (check all that apply) [X]Interpretive signage [X]Part time or volunteer naturalist Interpretive brochures [X] Full time naturalist Nature center Have you formed a partnership with another organization to provide interpretive/educational services? If yes, name of organization: Yes Yes Yes [X] No Yes No [X] Yes Red eyed vireo, American redstart, rose- breasted grosbeak, common yellowthroat, ovenbird, owls [X] Yes No [X] Yes Stage Nature Center - Troy Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 Provided examples of interpretive materials, descriptions of classes, and other documentation on the interpretive/educational services provided with application: This park will serve as a location for a new staffing model piloted by Oakland County Parks to create Urban Park Rangers. These rangers will maintain the small amount of infrastructure on site (parking lot, trash cans, etc.), assist with trails and natural resources maintenance and provide interpretative events on site to celebrate the cultural and natural features of the park. Turtle Woods creates a unique opportunity for new awareness of the importance of natural resources and recreation, as well as sustainability. OCPR has a robust nature interpretive program including naturalist-guided programs and classes, as well as self-guided interpretive opportunities through a series of interpretive signs. Current programs that could be utilized at Turtle Woods include Fall Color Hikes, Michigan "Shell-ebrities" (Turtle Program), Naturalist-Guided Walks in the Woods, and Vernal Pools programs and hikes. Interpretive signage throughout the park system focuses on interpretation of both local and regional topics including sustainability, fish and wildlife, birds, vernal pools, forest ecology, and more. OCPR naturalists and our Natural Resource Outreach Coordinator will work to create new interpretive signage for Turtle Woods, highlighting its unique features and its importance to the local and regional landscape. Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 Section J: Public Access Opportunities Instructions: 1. Click Sav e to save changes. 2. See the Natural Resources Trust Fund Application Guidelines here for guidance. * Will the site be open to the general public? No [X] Yes List the hours open to the public: From To Closed Sunday dusk Monday dawn Tuesday dusk Wednesday dawn Thursday dawn dusk Friday dawn dusk Saturday dawn Holidays Comment: dawn dusk dawn dusk dusk dawn dusk Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 Section K: Trails Instructions: 1. Click Sav e to save changes. 2. See the Natural Resources Trust Fund Application Guidelines here for guidance. * Is the proposed site a trail? * Is this proposed project part of the Iron Belle Trail (Governor's Showcase Trail)? View the interactive IBT map here. (Applicable for Development or Acquisition) [X] No Yes [X] No Yes Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 Application Narrative Instructions: 1. The application narrative is an important source of information used to evaluate and score your application. It will provide Grants Management with an overall picture of your proposed project. It is strongly recommended that you review the MNRTF Application Guidelines for additional clarification of what items should be included in the application narrative. 2. Click Sav e to save changes. 3. See the Natural Resources Trust Fund Application Guidelines here for guidance. *I. Project Justification and Support: *II. Project Description: OCPR and our partners are proposing the acquisition of Turtle Woods to become an OCPR Nature Preserve in Troy. While the community has nicknamed the property Turtle Woods (TW), it is not actually an official park or nature preserve, but rather surplus property for the Troy School District. Six Rivers Land Conservancy has secured the property with a purchase agreement that is assignable to OCPR. The purchase price is established 50% lower than appraised value, showing TSD’s commitment to sell at a bargain sale rate to support creation of a public natural area. The property has abundant natural resources that OCPR will protect, enhance, and steward through natural resource management. The pandemic has further emphasized the importance of parks and natural spaces for physical and mental health. Not everyone can drive 30 minutes to a large park to immerse themselves in nature, so we are working towards providing those experiences closer to where people live. Turtle Woods is integral to this plan, with 70 acres of undeveloped natural areas in SE Oakland County. Turtle Woods is unique in that its significant size offers habitat to a wide variety of wildlife. Many species need larger open spaces for foraging, prey for predators, and breeding. Uplands on the site offer ample wildlife food sources and breeding opportunities. A large variety of plant species are present including both early (open prairie) and late successional (mature forest) habitats. Both wetland and upland exist on the property, increasing wildlife diversity. See ASTI Baseline Assessment. This acquisition aligns with multiple SCORP objectives and the main SCORP GOAL to Protect and Manage natural assets to provide relevant, quality experiences that meet the fun, relaxation and health needs of residents and visitors. OCPR works to foster future generations of stewards through education and experiences. Nature Centers are important, but getting out in nature is better. Exposure to nature increases people’s appreciation for these resources and fosters future stewardship. Project partners thus far include land conservancies, Stage Nature Center, Evanswood Church, and the city of Troy. We anticipate many beneficial partnerships for programming and education. A public open house held on 2/21/2024 was attended by more than 50 stakeholders and residents, all of whom expressed support. We anticipate multiple sustainable demonstration projects at this site including alternative parking lot surfacing, demonstration gardens, solar-powered restrooms/lighting and an EV charging station. OCPR wants to provide the types of recreation people want close to where they live. With nearly 300,000 people living within a 15-minute drive-time, Turtle Woods can provide new access to nature and trails for a significant number of Michiganders. We envision a place for people to relax, restore, and immerse themselves through the quiet enjoyment of nature. Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 *III. Natural Resource Access and Protection: The future use of the site is as a Nature Preserve, where quiet enjoyment of nature and passive recreation including hiking and wildlife viewing are primary uses. Turtle Woods has been utilized for years by neighboring residents who have cut pathways and built small bridges and boardwalks. The property can be utilized now, as is, with minimal trail clearing. Longer-term, OCPR will map out potential better locations for trails and boardwalks to avoid sensitive areas. Trails will include aggregate, boardwalks and more rustic (natural surface) hiking trails based on location. Access to the site will be immediate. We anticipate developing new trails and boardwalks over the next 3-5 years. We don’t intend additional future development other than parking, trails, and a restroom facility adjacent to parking. Parking will be the minimum number of spaces needed to properly service the park (35-40). The Robertson development provides 13 public spaces but additional parking is needed. We are proposing acquisition of an adjacent residential property to provide access and additional parking. We have a willing seller for residential property located 2473 E. Square Lake Road, which is part of this application. We are pursuing sustainable parking lot surfacing, bioswales, native plants and EV charging. We will place portable restrooms at the site until solar-powered modular restrooms are installed adjacent to the parking lot. Our design standards for Nature Preserves are under development, the goals are to be minimal, functional, and accessible. The existing sidewalk on Square Lake Road will tie into a pedestrian pathway into the park, providing separate, safe pedestrian access. While the design phase for Turtle Woods has not yet begun, OCPR will incorporate CPTED concepts into all our park improvement projects including open sight lines, lighting, and use of landscaping. Designed elements at the park will be minimal and fully accessible, including the parking area and adjacent amenities (trash receptables, restrooms, trailhead signage) and park trails. Design criteria for the site will include equitable, simple and intuitive use, perceptible information, tolerance for error, and low physical effort. We intend future development to utilize the most sustainable designs that will function on the site. We are gearing up system wide for alternative pavements, solar energy, EV charging stations, new stormwater retention and minimizing disturbance to natural areas. Parking will be visible from Square Lake Road and easy to access. The City of Troy has committed to working with OCPR to design a functional, safe entrance/exit including extending an existing deceleration lane and approving signage on Square Lake Road. Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 IV. Other Information: Turtle Woods (TW) is a refuge for native plants and wildlife in an increasingly urbanized area. Neighbors have been using a self-maintained trail system through upland and wetland habitats, showcasing unique natural communities and species of the property. OCPR will formalize and maintain trails for improved access. OCPR operates 14 parks, with most larger parks in northern OC. Acquiring TW and creating a nature preserve in Troy will allow OCPR to provide a nature experience closer to many residents, making it more likely people will visit the preserve and enjoy the many benefits of spending time in nature. OCPR Natural Resources unit will maintain natural features through removal of invasive species, prescribed burns, and active native plant restoration (assessing existing natural features, determining historic cover, removing or adding native species, etc.) Preserving green space is a goal of the 2014 OC Green Infrastructure (GI) Plan and is one of eight policies identified in SEMCOG’s 2014 GI Plan. The plan advises “Public accessibility to the green infrastructure network is paramount, including access to parks, trails, water, and ensuring public spaces are designed for all residents.” TW provides key GI in Southeast MI, in addition to preserving unique natural communities and species. TW is in an area identified as a key hub in the OC Green Infrastructure Vision. TW was likely a mixed conifer swamp prior to adjacent development. ASTI (2019) identified unique natural communities and species including Southern Hardwood Swamp (vulnerable on the state level), and remnant Wet- mesic Prairie- identified by MNFI as critically imperiled and a priority for management and restoration. Wahoo (Euonymus atropurpurea), a state special concern species, was identified and OCPR will improve habitat to increase populations. OCPR has demonstrated experience using techniques including prescribed fire, native seeding, targeted invasive species control, forest stand management and other restoration techniques to improve ecological function and biodiversity. Wetlands in the Southern Hardwood Swamp will be evaluated to determine if unique species are utilizing the site. TW historically harbored spotted turtle. Rare species observed include Blanding’s turtles and plant species wahoo and seedbox. Great-horned owls and owlets were observed in 2019; mature owls were observed in 2021, providing unique opportunities to talk about raptors with school groups. Given its location and features, TW likely serves as a migration stop for birds. Wildlife viewing will be one of the main uses and promoted heavily to residents. Plans involve placement and construction of boardwalks and viewing platforms to provide an immersive nature experience. An OCPR core value is protection and preservation of natural resources. Our goal is to ensure sustainability of natural resources through maintenance of invasive species and promotion/mgmt of native plants and wildlife. Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Application 2024 TF24-0047 GRANT REVIEW SIGN-OFF – Parks and Recreation APP00129 GRANT NAME: Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund FUNDING AGENCY: Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) DEPARTMENT CONTACT: Melissa Prowse / (248) 249-2801 STATUS: Application (Greater than $50,000) DATE: 02/29/2024 Please be advised that the captioned grant materials have completed the internal grant review. Below are the returned comments. The Board of Commissioners’ liaison committee resolution and grant application package (which should include this sign- off and the grant application with related documentation) should be placed on the next agenda(s) of the appropriate Board of Commissioners’ committee(s) for grant acceptance by Board resolution. DEPARTMENT REVIEW Management and Budget: Approved – Sheryl Johnson (02/28/2024) Human Resources: Approved by Human Resources. No position impact. – Heather Mason (02/28/2024) Risk Management: Approved. No County insurance requirements detailed. – Robert Erlenbeck (02/28/2024) Corporation Counsel: Approved. I have reviewed the 2024 Trust Fund Land Acquisition Application for Turtle Woods and found no legal issues that must be resolved before the application is executed. – Jody Hall (02/26/2024) Turtle Woods Nature Preserve Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Grant Application Approval Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission March 6, 2024 TF24-0047 –Turtle Woods Applicant: Oakland County Parks and Recreation Project: Turtle Woods Acquisition –Troy –Oakland County Grant Request: $2,175,000 (Total Project: $4,475,000) Turtle Woods: 69.5 acres Residential Lot: 1.67 acres (Square Lake Rd. access/parking) Nearly 40 acres of wetland. Surrounded by residential development and a golf course. TF24-0047 Turtle Woods Acquisition 3,750,000$ MNRTF Application (50%)1,875,000$ TPS Match Value (50%)1,875,000$ Parking Acquisition + Incidentals Parking Parcel(s) Estimated Value 700,000$ Due Diligence + Closing Costs (est)25,000$ Subtotal 725,000$ MNRTF Application (41%)300,000$ OCPRC Cash Match (59%)425,000$ Total Project Cost 4,475,000$ MNRTF Request Application Request Amount (49%)2,175,000$ 49% Match: TPS Donation of 50% of TW value 1,875,000$ 42% Match: OCPR Cash Match - Parking/Incidentals 425,000$ 9% Total Project Cost 4,475,000$ 100% Total 51% match = 25 additional points Turtle Woods TF24-0047 New subdivision currently under construction –public access (13 spaces) Residential lot 1.7 acres willing seller parking/access Square Lake Road EvanswoodRoad“Turtle Woods” 69.5 acres Sanctuary Lake Golf Course TF24-0047 15-minute drive time = 300,000 people Location, location, location. TF23- 0039 TF24-0047 TF23-0039 Rare species / Rare conservation opportunity •Spotted Turtle (1998) •Blanding’s Turtle (state special concern) •Wahoo (state special concern) •Seedbox (state endangered) Southern Hardwood Swamp Wet Mesic Prairie Remnant TF24-0047 Turtle Woods Nature Preserve Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Acquisition Grant Request