HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgendas/Packets - 2024.01.24 - 41326Call Meeting to Order
Roll Call
Pledge of Allegiance
Approval of Agenda
Public Comment
NOMINATION & ELECTION OF 2024 OFFICERS:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
A Chairperson Elect Chris Ward / 858-4944
B Vice Chairperson Elect Chris Ward / 858-4944
C Secretary Elect Chris Ward / 858-4944
PRESENTATIONS/RECOGNITIONS:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
D Southfield Oaks Park Action Plan Preliminary Informational Donna Folland / 736-9087
E Oak Park Woods Park Action Plan Preliminary Informational Donna Folland / 736-9087
COMMUNICATIONS/REPORTS:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
F Waterford Wave Pool Operation Informational Erik Koppin / 909-7702
REGULAR AGENDA:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
1 Oakland County Fair Association Agreement Approval & Fwd to BOC Tom Hughes / 343-1011
2 Oakland Astronomy Club License Agreement Approval Tom Hughes / 343-1011
3 Independence Oaks - Manor House Demolition Approval Mark Adams / 762-3822
4 Volunteer Policy Update Approval Stephanie Mackey / 431-1268
5 Financial Reserves Strategic Plan / Year End Statement Approval Chris Ward / 858-4944
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
NEW & MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
6 Director's Report Informational Chris Ward / 858-4944
7 Executive Committee Update Informational J. David VanderVeen / 821-0903
ANNOUNCEMENTS
View Recorded Meetings Here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKv6lUWH4IJEASENpEwjhoPSueR6nFVXp
View Agenda Packets/Minutes Here:
https://www.oakgov.com/community/oakland-county-parks/get-involved/parks-
commission
Public Access Information
If you require special accommodations because of a disability, please contact the Parks & Recreation Department at
(248) 858-0906, Ext. 9, at least three (3) business days in advance of the meeting.
ADJOURNMENT TO: March 6, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. or to the Call of the Chair
Approval of Minutes - December 6, 2023 Regular Meeting & December 6, 2023 Closed Session Meeting
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
J. David VanderVeen, Acting Chairman
Wednesday, January 24, 2024 @ 2:00 pm
Parks Commission Room - 2800 Watkins Lake Rd, Waterford, MI 48328
Regular Monthly Meeting Agenda
December 6, 2023
Acting Chairman VanderVeen called the meeting of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission to order at 2:00 p.m. in the Parks Commission Room.
Acting Chairman VanderVeen held a moment of silence in honor of Parks Commission Chairman, Gary
R. McGillivray, who passed away on November 3, 2023.
Acting Chairman VanderVeen announced that Amanda Herzog was elected to the Royal Oak City
Commission and has resigned her seat on the Parks Commission as of November 27, 2023.
COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT:
J. David VanderVeen, Ebony Bagley, Christine Long, Andrea LaFontaine, Jim Nash, Nancy Quarles,
Lance Stokes
COMMISSION MEMBERS ABSENT WITH NOTICE:
Yolanda Smith Charles
OTHERS PRESENT:
PARKS AND RECREATION Chris Ward, Director
Jim Dunleavy, Manager-Operations
Melissa Prowse, Manager-Planning & Development
Aaron Stepp, Manager-Internal Services
Sarah Cook-Maylen, Chief-Environmental Sustainability & Planning
Zach Crane, Supervisor-Parks Engineering & Development
Donna Folland, Chief-Planning & Resource Development
Tom Hughes, Chief-Park Operations & Maint. – North District
Erik Koppin, Chief-Park Operations & Maint. – South District
Brandy Sotke-Boyd, Chief-Recreation Programs & Services
Desiree Stanfield, Chief-Marketing & Communications
Mark Adams, Project Manager Engineer
Kelley Moss, Recreation Program Supervisor
Melissa Nawrocki, Recreation Program Supervisor
Jami Monte, Staff Assistant
Simon Rivers, Associate Planner
Nathaniel Brech, Recreation Program Coordinator
Riley Hayes, Recreation Program Coordinator
Libby Soncrainte, Recreation Program Coordinator
Shannon Kenny, Technical Office Specialist
Kristen Kittell, Technical Office Specialist
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Acting Chairman VanderVeen proposed to amend the agenda as follows:
1.Insert “Changes to January/February OCPRC Scheduled Meetings” as Item 7 under the Regular
OAKLAND COUNTY
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
2800 WATKINS LAKE ROAD, WATERFORD, MICHIGAN 48328
Telephone: (248) 858-0906
REGULAR MEETING
J. David VanderVeen, Acting ChairmanEbony Bagley
Secretary
Christine Long
Andrea LaFontaine
Jim Nash
Nancy Quarles
Yolanda Smith Charles
Lance Stokes
RETURN TO AGENDA
December 6, 2023 Page 2
Agenda.
2. Renumber Item 7, Director’s Report, as Item 8 under New & Miscellaneous Business.
3. Renumber Item 8, Executive Committee Update, as Item 9 under New & Miscellaneous Business.
4. Renumber Item 9, Wildlife Crossing Overpass Park, as Item 10 under Other Business.
5. Renumber Item 10, Pursuant to MCL 15.268(a) – Chris Ward Performance Evaluation, as Item
11 under Closed Session.
Long moved to approve the agenda, as amended. Seconded by Bagley.
Motion carried on a voice vote.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Stokes moved to approve the November 1, 2023 Regular meeting minutes, and the November
1, 2023 Closed Session meeting minutes, as presented. Seconded by Bagley.
Motion carried on a voice vote.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
PRESENTATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
A. Fireworks & Flannels – Winter Event Presentation
Ms. Soncrainte and Ms. Hayes presented the winter event that is being planned: Fireworks & Flannels.
COMMUNICATIONS/REPORTS
B. 2023 Golf Report
Mr. Hughes provided a report of the 2023 golf season.
C. Capital Planning and Development Projects Update
Mr. Crane provided an update on the capital planning and development projects.
REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS
1. 2024 OCPR Fees & Charges and Appreciation Days
Nash moved to approve the 2024 OCPR Fees & Charges and Appreciation Days, as presented.
Seconded by Quarles.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
2. Recreation Assistance Partnership Program (RAPP) Request
Bagley moved to approve the Recreation Assistance Partnership (RAPP) Request, as
presented. Seconded by LaFontaine.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
3. Final Red Oaks (Nature Preserve & Ambassador Park) Park Action Plan
Quarles moved to approve the Final Red Oaks (Nature Preserver & Ambassador Park) Park
Action Plan, as presented. Seconded by Long.
December 6, 2023 Page 3
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
4. FY2024 Capital Equipment Amendment
Long moved to approve the FY2024 Capital Equipment Amendment, as presented. Seconded
by Bagley.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
5. Catalpa Oaks License Agreement – South Oakland Soccer Association (SOCS)
Nash moved to approve the Catalpa Oaks License Agreement – South Oakland Soccer
Association (SOCS), as presented. Seconded by LaFontaine.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
6. Revocation/Termination of License Agreement and Letter of Understanding for the James
Harvey Davis Home
Quarles moved to approve the Revocation/Termination of License Agreement and Letter of
Understanding for the James Harvey Davis Home, as presented. Seconded by Stokes.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
7. Changes to January/February OCPRC Scheduled Meetings
Quarles moved to approve the Changes to January/February OCPRC Scheduled Meetings, as
presented. Seconded by LaFontaine.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
NEW & MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS
8. Director’s Report
Director Ward provided an overview of his report.
9. Executive Committee Update
Acting Chairman VanderVeen provided an update from the Executive Committee meeting that was held
on November 27, 2023.
OTHER BUSINESS
10. Wildlife Crossing Overpass Park
Commissioner Stokes provided a presentation on a wildlife crossing overpass park.
CLOSED SESSION:
11. Pursuant to MCL 15.268(a) – Chris Ward Performance Evaluation
Quarles moved that the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission go into Closed
December 6, 2023 Page 4
Session for the purposes of considering the personnel evaluation of OCPR Director, Chris Ward.
Seconded by LaFontaine.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
The Commission recessed from 3:58 p.m. to 4:04 p.m.
The Commission went into Closed Session at 4:04 p.m.
The Commission reconvened in Open Session at 4:13 p.m.
ANNOUNCEMENTS/ADJOURNMENT
At 4:13 p.m., there being no further business to come before the Commission, the meeting was
adjourned to January 24, 2024, or to the Call of the Chair.
Ebony Bagley, OCPRC Secretary Jami Monte, Recording Secretary
NOTE: The foregoing minutes are subject to Commission approval.
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: A, B, C
Department: Administration
From: Chris Ward, Director
Subject: Nomination & Election of 2024 Officers
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
The Parks and Recreation Commission is organized under the provisions of the County and
Regional Parks Act, Act 261 of 1965. Section 3 of the Act states, in part:
Each January a county commission and a regional commission shall elect from its membership a
president, a secretary, and other officers as it considers necessary. The officers shall hold office
for the calendar year in which they are elected and until their successors are elected and qualified.
The Commission’s bylaws also provide for the establishment of an Executive Committee
consisting of the officers of the Commission. It has been the tradition of the Commission in recent
years to supplement the membership of the Executive Committee with an additional member
nominated by the Commission Chairperson. The Executive Committee meets monthly with staff
management to review the upcoming Commission agenda and discuss major issues facing
Oakland County Parks.
In accordance with state law and your bylaws, the Commission should conduct elections to
establish their officers to serve throughout 2024 and may consider appointing additional
member(s) to the Executive Committee. The bylaws provide for a Chairperson, Vice Chairperson
and Secretary. It would be advisable to avoid more than 5 members on the Committee, as this
would constitute a quorum of the full Commission under the Open Meetings Act.
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Move to elect ________________ to the office of Chairperson.
Move to elect ________________ to the office of Vice Chairperson.
Move to elect ________________ to the office of Secretary.
RETURN TO AGENDA
Southfield Oaks
Park Action Plan
Beech Woods Park,
City of Southfield, Michigan
DRAFT DATE: 1/13/2024
Approved by Oakland County Parks Commission: DATE TBD
A pproved by Southfield – DATE TBD
RETURN TO AGENDA
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission
J. David VanderVeen, Acting Chairman
Ebony Bagley, Secretary
Christine Long, Executive Committee Member
Yolanda Charles, Commissioner
Andrea LaFontaine, Commissioner
Jim Nash, Commissioner
Nancy L. Quarles, Commissioner
E. Lance Stokes, Commissioner
Executive Leadership Team
Chris Ward, Director – Park and Recreation
Melissa Prowse, Manager – Planning and
Development
Jim Dunleavy, Manager – Park and Recreation
Operations
City of Southfield Mayor and City Council
Kenson J. Siver, Mayor
Michael “Ari” Mandelbaum, Council President
Nancy L.M. Banks, Council President Pro Tem
Daniel Brightwell, Councilman
Llyod C. Crews, Councilman
Charles Hicks, Councilman
Coretta Houge, Councilwoman
Linnie Taylor, Councilwoman
City of Southfield Staff
Frederick E. Zorn, City Administrator
Terry Fields, Director, Parks & Recreation
Department
Steve Griffith, Park Services, Park Operations
Rick B. Swilley, Facility Supervisor, Beech Woods
Recreation Center
Nancy Keener, Assistant to the Director
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
2800 Watkins Lake Road
Waterford, MI 48328
OaklandCountyParks.com
Oakland County Parks Staff Contacts – Planning and Resource Development
Donna Folland, Chief (248) 736-9087 follandd@oakgov.com
Simon Rivers, Associate Planner (248) 421-9033 riverss@oakgov.com
Oakland County Parks Staff Contacts – Park Operations
Erik Koppin, Chief of Operations – South District (248) 909-7702 koppine@oakgov.com
Doug Ammon, Park Supervisor – Catalpa and Glen Oaks (248) 851-8356 ammond@oakgov.com
Oakland County Parks Staff Contacts – Natural Resources and Nature Education
Sarah Cook-Maylen, Chief of Natural Resources and Sustainability (248) 343-1353
maylens@oakgov.com
Mary Blumka, Supervisor of Nature Education (248) 625-6473 blumkam@oakgov.com
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 1
Table of Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................2
Community Context....................................................................................................................................................7
Community Engagement ......................................................................................................................................... 12
Environmental Condition......................................................................................................................................... 20
Existing Conditions .................................................................................................................................................. 21
Strategic Plan ........................................................................................................................................................... 33
Capital Improvement Plan ....................................................................................................................................... 43
Park Operations and Maintenance Plan .................................................................................................................. 48
Letter of Intent ........................................................................................................................................................ 53
Interlocal Partnership Agreement ........................................................................................................................... 56
Boundary Survey ..................................................................................................................................................... 73
Nature Preserve Policy ............................................................................................................................................ 74
Southfield City Approvals ........................................................................................................................................ 76
References ............................................................................................................................................................... 77
Appendix A: Public Engagement Report .................................................................................................................. 78
Introduction
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 2
Introduction
Beech Woods Park resides on the ancestral,
traditional, and contemporary lands of the
Anishinaabe, known as the Three Fires Confederacy,
comprised of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and
Potawatomi. The land that became the park has a
specific connection to the Potawatomi since it is
directly adjacent to what was once the Tonquish
Reservation, land set aside for that tribal nation in the
1807 Treaty of Detroit. This land and the surrounding
lands had long been part of Potawatomi history.
In 1830 Robert Robertson became the first person to
purchase the land that became the park. Subsequent owners of the land into the 1870s included the
Cook, Delling and Spencer families. During this time a one-room school was built along the road on the
western boundary of the land. In 1874 the land was purchased by the Klett family and would remain
owned by that family well into the 1900s.
In 1971 the land became the property of the City of Southfield and Beech Woods Park began to be
developed on it. Over time park improvements have included the addition of a playlot in 2003, a stream
stabilization project in 2009 and the initiation of an ongoing “Greening Project” in 2010.
Beech Woods Park is the second largest park in the City of Southfield, smaller than only Civic Center
Park, which is home to City Hall and Southfield’s administrative offices. Formerly home to a 9-hole golf
course, Beech Woods Park is an 82-acre park which features the Beech Woods Recreation Center, tennis
courts, a playground, a picnic shelter, and open space. There is also a driving range, including portions
that are heated and lighted, for year-round play.
In 2019, the Southfield Parks and Recreation Department commissioned an assessment of the course by
the National Golf Foundation, which found that the course required $2.4 million in initial cost to bring
the course up to modern standards and necessitated $485,000 in ongoing operations and maintenance
cost. Due to the high costs of operating the golf course, the golf course closed in 2019 and the City of
Southfield undertook a Beech Woods master planning project to determine the future of the property.
In June 2021, the Beech Woods Park Master Plan was published, detailing community engagement,
existing conditions and research, and implementation and funding.
Oakland County Parks and the City of Southfield have partnered to re-envision the southern 39 acres of
Beech Woods Park. Under the terms of the Southfield Oaks Partnership agreement, Oakland County has
committed to investing at least $2 million to transform the former 9-hole golf course on the banks of the
Rouge River into a space for people to relax, socialize, be active and immerse themselves in nature.
Oakland County Parks will operate the park as Southfield Oaks County Park while the City of Southfield
retains ownership. This Park Action Plan is intended to serve as a roadmap for both the city and the
county for the future of Southfield Oaks at Beech Woods Park.
Introduction
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 3
Definitions
Several agencies and locations are mentioned throughout the document that may also have alternate
names or acronyms. These items may also be referenced differently in the attached legal documents
(Letter of Intent and Interlocal Partnership Agreement). The definition list below provides the terms
used throughout this document.
ARPA – American Recovery Plan Act State and Local Recovery Funds
Beech Woods Park – the 82-acre park located at 22200 Beech Road, Southfield, Michigan 48033, owned
by the City of Southfield.
Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan – The OCBOC-approved program
allocating ARPA State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds for OCPRC to invest in park and outdoor
recreational spaces in OCP and community parks.
Oakland County Board of Commissioners – Oakland County’s governing body, which also approves
certain approvals made by the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission – specifically those
concerning land acquisition, grant funding, and use agreements.
Oakland County Parks – the park system, its land and operations, which is overseen by the Oakland
County Parks and Recreation Commission.
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission – the 10-member board that is responsible for
planning, developing, and operating parks and recreation facilities, making rules and regulations,
establishing a fee structure, approving budget expenditures, acquiring new parkland, acceptance of
grant funding, and the entrance into use agreements.
OCBOC – acronym for Oakland County Board of Commissioners
OCP – acronym for Oakland County Parks
OCPRC – acronym for Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission
Southfield – refers to the City of Southfield, its geographic location, and its government.
Southfield Oaks – name of the future Oakland County Park, located at the southern 39 acres of Beech
Woods Park.
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan
The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 updated the vision of Oakland County
Parks (OCP) to focus beyond the parks currently managed by OCP to ensuring that all Oakland County
residents experience the benefits of recreation.
“Everyone in Oakland County has access to a park, public space, or recreational opportunity to
relax, be active, socialize, and connect with nature.”
The Recreation Master Plan went further to identify four core values that would be the basis for
decisions and strategies in the coming five years.
Introduction
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 4
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Ground all actions and decisions in equity and justice and provide
parks and recreation services that feel safe and welcoming to everyone.
Health and Wellness: Increase access to the spaces and experiences that promote physical,
mental, and social health for all.
Environmental Sustainability and Natural Resources Stewardship: Plan, build, and operate our
parks and services in a sustainable manner while collaborating with local communities. Care for
the natural environment, preserve land and open space for future generations, meet current
recreation needs without compromising the future, and build community resilience and
adaptation to climate change.
Fiscal Responsibility and Organizational Excellence: Implement our mission with a robust,
innovative, and diverse parks and recreation organization and ground our decisions in sound
fiscal policy.
These core values are the foundation for new community partnerships to enhance the access and
quality of recreation in local communities in Oakland County. (OCP 1/26/2023)
Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan
In October 2022, the Oakland County Board of Commissioners approved allocation to the Oakland
County Parks and Recreation Commission for $15M in Oakland County American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)
State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to invest in park and outdoor recreational spaces. OCP agreed to
match the ARPA allocation with a minimum amount of $5.2M (OCP 1/26/2023).
Approximately 60% of this funding was designated for investment in community parks with the
remainder to be invested in existing OCP parks. Investment in community parks has the following
objectives:
• Transform and eliminate historic inequities in the distribution of the benefits of the Oakland
County Parks system and significantly enhance our capacity to serve residents of densely
populated diverse core urban cities.
• Rejuvenate municipal parks that are underutilized due to existing conditions that compromise
accessibility, participation, and use by residents, including outdated or inoperable recreation
equipment and facilities, deteriorating infrastructure, and disinvestment and underutilization of
natural resources/park amenities.
• Sustain the one-time investment of ARPA funding through partnerships that will incorporate
four existing municipal parks into the Oakland County Parks system, securing long-term, ongoing
investments from OCPR in park facilities and maintenance.
• Expand accessibility and use of existing community park facilities to serve regional recreational
needs.
• Make investments in park infrastructure that will have the greatest impact in improving the
health and well-being of our residents.
• Provide much needed financial aid to chronically underfunded communities to address priority
local park and outdoor recreation needs.
Prior to the BOC approval of the Healthy Communities Investment Plan, the City of Southfield and OCP
signed a Letter of Intent that signified their intention to develop a partnership to invest Oakland County
Introduction
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 5
ARPA funds in improvements at the former golf course at Beech Woods Park and for OCP to operate this
areas as an Oakland County Park for an agreed period of time (City of Southfield and County of Oakland
9/7/2022).
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
The City of Southfield and OCP negotiated and signed an Interlocal Partnership Agreement that details
the long-term relationship intended to improve the former golf course at Beech Woods Park for the
residents of Southfield and Oakland County, to be managed by OCP as an Oakland County Park. This
Park Action Plan and its component parts are requirements of the Interlocal Partnership Agreement
(City of Southfield and County of Oakland 11/16/2023). The Park Action Plan is described in Section 4.7,
quoted below:
4.7. Park Action Plan. By January 15, 2024, OCPRC shall submit a Park Action Plan to the City.
The provisions of the Park Action Plan shall reflect the intentions of the City and OCPRC that the
Park shall be primarily managed as a nature preserve featuring passive recreational amenities
consistent with the surrounding community. OCPRC shall endeavor to incorporate the City’s
Recreation Master Plan, Beech Woods Park Master Plan, OCPRC’s Recreation Master Plan and
the community engagement utilized in the development of these plans. The Park Action Plan
shall be submitted to the OCPRC for approval prior to submittal to the City’s Representative for
comments and recommendations. The Park Action Plan shall not be implemented by OCPRC
without prior written approval by the City Representative. The City Representative shall submit
its comments and recommendations to the OCPRC Representative within thirty (30) Days of
receipt of the Park Action Plan. OCPRC Representative shall review and consider the City
Representative’s comments and recommendations and shall endeavor to address all comments
and recommendations. Notwithstanding any other provision, if the City Representative does not
approve the Park Action Plan by March 31, 2024, the County may terminate this Agreement.
Such termination shall not be deemed a breach or default of the City. Modifications to the Park
Action Plan shall be codified according to the procedure set forth in this Section.
The Park Action Plan fulfills multiple requirements provided by the Interlocal Partnership Agreement.
The table below relates the chapters of the Park Action Plan to individual sections of the Interlocal
Partnership Agreement.
Park Action Plan Section Interlocal Partnership Agreement Reference / Notes
Introduction 4.7 Park Action Plan
Community Context
Community Engagement 3.3.4 Park Planning – section indicates the requirement for 2
community forums during the Transition Period
Existing Conditions 3.2.1. Grants & Endowments
3.2.2. Agreements between City and Third Parties
3.3.3. Premises Inspections
Environmental Condition 3.4 Environmental Condition
3.4.1 Environmental Assessments
3.4.2 Copies of Environmental Assessments
6.4 Liability for Environmental Matters
Strategic Plan 1.11 Park Access Improvements
Introduction
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 6
Park Action Plan Section Interlocal Partnership Agreement Reference / Notes
2.6 Designation of Park & Name of Park
3.3.4 Park Planning
4.4 Park Improvement Projects
4.5 Park Maintenance/Repairs
4.7. Park Action Plan
4.10 Park Access/Parking
4.14 Signs
5.2 Payment for Park Access Improvements
5.7 Park Grants
Capital Improvement Plan 1.2 Capital Improvement Project
4.4 Park Improvement Projects
4.9 Park Capital Improvement Plan
5.1 Initial OCPRC Investment
Park Operations and
Management Plan
1.14 Park Fees and Charges
1.15 Park Revenue
4.3 Park Management and Operations
4.6 Park Utilities and Services
4.8 Park Operations and Management Plan
4.10 Park Access/Parking
4.13 Park Rules
4.15 Volunteers
4.16 Sponsorship of Events/Programs at Park by Third Parties
4.17 Use of Park by Third Parties
4.18 Use of Park by the City
5.4 Establishment of Park Fees & Charges
5.5 Park Revenue
5.7 Annual Accounting and Audits
Community Context
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 7
Community Context
Beech Woods Park is in the southwest side of the City of Southfield, one of just four majority-Black
municipalities in Oakland County. Understanding Southfield’s demographic characteristics will help
Oakland County Parks (OCP) evaluate if our community engagement is reaching the people of Southfield
and to provide information so that Southfield residents will access and enjoy the future park features
and activities at the park. Because OCP is a county agency with a regional mission, there is also a data
analysis provided of all Oakland County residents and all households within a 10-minute drive of the
park.
Community Description – City of Southfield
The City of Southfield is located directly north of Detroit, part
of the Metro Detroit metropolitan area. Southfield has a total
area of approximately 26 square miles. Southfield is bounded
by the City of Farmington Hills to the west; the Villages of
Beverly Hills, Bingham Farms, and Franklin to the north; the
Cities of Berkley, Oak Park, and Royal Oak to the east; and the
Cities of Detroit and Redford to the south. Southfield also
completely contains Lathrup Village, an independent city, in
the eastern part of the city.
The land that now makes up Southfield was surveyed by
European-American settlers in 1817, initially designated as
Ossewa Township in 1830, and changed to Southfield Township later that year. Today, Southfield
Township comprises three villages: Beverly Hills, Bingham Farms, and Franklin. There is also a small
unincorporated part that is not part of a village that occupies 0.17 acres with a population of
approximately 20 persons. Southfield was incorporated as a city in 1958, later branding itself as the “A
Place for Everyone” (Southfield 12/12/2023).
In 2023, Southfield has a population of 76,759 people, with a population density of 2,924 residents per
square mile. Southfield has a Diversity Index of 48, compared to 54 for Oakland County. The Diversity
Index from Esri represents the likelihood that two
persons, chosen at random from the same area, belong
to different races or ethnic groups. The city has a
majority Black population, with 70% Black/African
American, 21% White, 2.4% Asian, and 4.2% reporting
two or more races. Southfield is also home to a large and
vibrant Jewish community. The median household
income for Southfield residents is $61,481, with 13% of
households below the federal poverty level.
The City of Southfield owns 31 public parks and
recreational facilities, totaling 470 acres of land. The
2022-2026 Southfield Parks and Recreation Master Plan,
Community Context
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 8
adopted by the City Council on January 27, 2022, inventories these recreation sites, and sets goals for
future improvements. Beech Woods Park is one of three community parks identified in the Recreation
Master Plan; community parks include areas for intense active recreation as well as passive recreation
opportunities to meet community-based needs, preserve unique landscapes and open spaces, and
attract users of all ages (Southfield 01/27/2022).
10-Minute Drive-Time Analysis
With future investment and operation of Beech Woods Park by Oakland County Parks in collaboration
with the City of Southfield, we also consider the demographic characteristics of people living within a
10-minute drive of the park. The 10-minute drive time area includes most of Southfield and parts of
Farmington Hills, and Wayne County. The population within the 10-minute drive of Beech Woods Park is
181,477 people.
The 10-minute drive time area has a diversity index of 59 compared to 54 for Oakland County and 48 for
Southfield. 57% of the population is Black/African American, compared to nearly 71% in Southfield and
14% in Oakland County. 92% speak only English in the home, compared with 85% for Oakland County.
The median household income for residents of this area is $57,961, with 15% of households below the
federal poverty level. See data tables at the end of this section.
Figure A: Map of the geographic area within a 10-minute drive of Beach Woods Park
Community Context
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 9
Table 1. Demographic comparison tables
Geography
2023 Total
Population
2023 Median
Household
Income
2021 Total
Households
Southfield City, MI 76,759 $ 61,481 33,395
Beech Woods Park (10-minute drive) 181,477 $ 57,961 75,592
Oakland County, MI 1,285,938 $ 91,020 520,393
Table 2. Demographic comparison – Diversity Index
Geography 2023 Diversity Index
Southfield City, MI 48
Beech Woods Park (10-minute drive) 59
Oakland County, MI 54
Figure B: Demographic comparison – Race and ethnicity
2023
White
Pop-
ulation
2023
Black/
African
America
n Pop-
ulation
2023
America
n
Indian/
Alaska
Native
Pop-
ulation
2023
Asian
Pop-
ulation
2023
Pacific
Islander
Pop-
ulation
2023
Other
Race
Pop-
ulation
2023
Pop-
ulation
of Two
or More
Races
2023
Hispanic
Pop-
ulation
Southfield City, MI 21%71%0%2%0%1%4%2%
Beech Woods (10-minute drive)34%56%0%3%0%1%5%3%
Oakland County, MI 69%13%0%9%0%2%6%5%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
Pe
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Community Context
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 10
Figure C: Demographic comparison – Languages spoken in the home
Figure D: Demographic comparison – Age distribution (2023)
2021 Speak
Only English
2021 Speak
Spanish
2021 Speak
Other Indo-
European
Language
2021 Speak
Asian-Pacific
Island
Language
2021 Speak
Other
Language
Southfield City, MI 91%1%3%1%3%
Beech Woods (10-minute drive)92%2%3%2%2%
Oakland County, MI 84%3%6%4%3%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
Pe
r
c
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2
0
2
1
p
o
p
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l
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t
i
o
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Age
0-4
Age
5-9
Age
10-
14
Age
15-
19
Age
20-
24
Age
25-
29
Age
30-
34
Age
35-
39
Age
40-
44
Age
45-
49
Age
50-
54
Age
55-
59
Age
60-
64
Age
65-
69
Age
70-
74
Age
75-
79
Age
80-
84
Age
85+
Southfield City, MI 4%5%5%6%6%6%6%6%6%6%6%6%8%7%6%4%3%3%
Beech Woods (10 minutes)5%5%6%6%6%6%6%6%6%6%7%7%7%7%5%4%2%3%
Oakland County, MI 5%6%6%6%5%6%6%6%6%6%7%7%7%6%5%3%2%2%
0%
1%
2%
3%
4%
5%
6%
7%
8%
9%
Pe
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t
2
0
2
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t
i
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Community Context
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 11
Figure E: Demographic comparison – Household income distribution (2023)
Figure F: Demographic comparison – Income and disability
Less than
$15,000
$15,000-
$24,999
$25,000-
$34,999
$35,000-
$49,999
$50,000-
$74,999
$75,000-
$99,999
$100,000
-
$149,999
$150,000
-
$199,999
$200,000
or
greater
Southfield City, MI 11%7%8%13%20%13%17%6%6%
Beech Woods (10 minutes)12%8%8%14%18%12%16%6%5%
Oakland County, MI 7%5%5%9%14%13%19%12%15%
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
Pe
r
c
e
n
t
2
0
2
3
p
o
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
2021
Households
Below the
Poverty Level
2021
Households
Receiving Food
Stamps/SNAP
2021 Owner
Households with
No Vehicles
2021
Households with
1+ Persons with
a Disability
Southfield City, MI 13%13%1%31%
Beech Woods (10-minute drive)15%18%2%30%
Oakland County, MI 8%7%2%23%
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
Pe
r
c
e
n
t
2
0
2
1
p
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o
n
Community Engagement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 12
Community Engagement
The Park Action Plan is built on input from the public, park users, and local officials and stakeholders.
We seek engagement on multiple levels and on multiple occasions and will continue to engage the
community as planning and on-the-ground activities commence. Two types of community engagement
will be done for Southfield Oaks: planning engagement prior to creating a vision and goals and a
preliminary action plan for the park and design engagement to engage the community in planning
specific amenities and improvements as part of an overall master plan.
Planning Engagement
The purpose of planning engagement is to understand how people engage with the park and what is
important to them about the park. Listening to the public is an important first step that provides
information to guide the design process. The community engagement summarized in this Park Action
Plan is planning engagement.
As part of planning engagement, we communicate with stakeholders and conduct research to help us
better understand the community and its characteristics such as languages spoken, demographics,
median income, and potential barriers to park use. The results of research and engagement will help
prioritize design of future improvements and help guide decisions.
Design Engagement
The purpose of this engagement is to share multiple design scenarios with the public and get
information on their preferences and why. This will be led by the design consultant with support from
OCP Planning and Design staff. The planning engagement above will provide important information
about the community’s priorities and needs into the design process. Following an internal review
process, the consultant will develop multiple design visions/layouts. After we determine these are
feasible alternatives, we will host one or more open houses that include a design charette where
designers and staff share multiple concepts with the community and ask for their input. Design
engagement will occur after this Park Action Plan is approved and the design process commences.
Existing Community Engagement Data
We consulted reports from recent community engagement. The key documents consulted for Beech
Woods Park are the 5-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan documents for Southfield and Oakland
County (OCP 1/26/2023).
Beech Woods Park Community Engagement
Purpose
The purpose of this public engagement was to communicate with the stakeholders and community
members to gain insights into what the community would like to see in a renovated park under Oakland
County Parks management and through capital improvements. It was also our intention to reach
community members who are not currently engaged or who have not historically felt welcomed or
invited into parks, to identify barriers to their participation, and address gaps in equitable park access.
Community Engagement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 13
Methods
The public engagement methods used included an online survey, a park planning open house, and a
stakeholder meeting. The survey was available online for three weeks, November 16 – December 8,
2023.
Two engagement events were held in Southfield:
A park planning open house at the annual Christmas Tree Lighting event at Southfield Municipal
Campus. Participants had a variety of ways in which to engage and provide input on Beech
Woods Park, including verbal feedback, written comment cards, and a prioritization activity. A
large board presented participants with the opportunity to identify amenities and features that
they felt were the highest priority or best fit. Paper copies of the survey were available.
A virtual stakeholder meeting with members of the Beech Woods Acres Homeowner
Association.
Publicity and Promotion
Several methods were used to reach as many engaged park users as possible including social media
posts, e-marketing messages, news releases, communication with community organizations, and hosting
public engagement events in Southfield. A postcard was mailed to all Oakland County addresses within a
10-minute driving distance (approximately 29,200 addresses).
Summary Survey Results
Survey respondents were generally supportive of the partnership between Oakland County Parks and
the City of Southfield to revitalize Beech Woods Park. There were 241 unique survey entries. Most were
completed online, and one was completed on paper. Approximately 75% of the responses were from
Southfield.
Importance of park features
Both Southfield respondents and regional respondents value Beech Woods Park for its 82-acres of
diverse and community-friendly uses. The most important park features for respondents are listed
below:
1. Paths and walking tails
2. Trees and shade
3. Restrooms
4. Access for all abilities
5. Native flowers and pollinators
Experiences and barriers to enjoyment of parks
To ask about negative or unwelcoming experiences at parks, a list of scenarios was provided that
included: feeling unwelcome; lack of transportation; limited accessibility; language barriers; limited
information; parks not well-maintained; entrance fees too costly; and none of the above. The biggest
barrier to enjoyment of parks for respondents was parks not being well maintained (24%); meanwhile,
21% of respondents selected none of the above.
Community Engagement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 14
Open-ended survey responses
Respondents had several opportunities to leave open-ended responses in the survey; over 270
responses were collected from approximately 240 respondents. Open ended responses gave insight into
Beech Woods Park over the years, and some primary themes emerged.
The top five topics mentioned most frequently were:
1. Natural spaces (trees, native plants, invasive species)
2. Trails/paths (biking, walking, cross-country skiing)
3. Appreciation/excitement/positive memories
4. Dog-friendly amenities
5. Former Beech Woods Golf Course
Summary Open House Results
Date and Time Location Event Approximate
count
Tues., Dec. 5, 6 – 8 pm Southfield Municipal
Campus Front Lawn
Southfield Tree Lighting
Ceremony
50
We engaged with approximately 50 community
members at the open house, including families
and children. Attendees of all ages were invited to
participate in the engagement, including a
prioritization exercise and completing the survey
if they had not already done so.
A board presented participants with opportunities
to vote for amenities and features that they felt
were the highest priority or best fit. The
prioritization board reflected the importance the
community puts on paths and walking trails, views of the Rouge River, restrooms, pavilions and
gathering spaces, and community events.
The prioritization exercise was popular, as attendees were given a certain number of dots with which to
cast their votes directly on the boards. In total, over 90 votes were cast.
The top priorities for open house participants were:
1. Paths and walking trails
2. Views of the Rouge River
3. Restrooms
4. Pavilions and gathering spaces
5. Community events
6. Health and wellness programs
Community Engagement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 15
Summary Stakeholder Meeting Results
Date and Time Location Event Count
Tues., Dec. 5, 3 – 4:30 pm Virtual Stakeholder Meeting 10
During the virtual meeting, the following images were displayed to allow for comments and feedback
about potential improvements to Beech Woods Park:
• A map of the property showing the division of Beech Woods between the City of Southfield-
managed areas and the Oakland County Parks-managed areas.
• Renderings of walking and biking trails, ponds, pollinator gardens, open green space,
boardwalks, and gathering spaces.
• City plans for future parking lot expansion and improvement.
Top 5 topics discussed by the participants were:
1. Property delineation between the park and neighboring properties, including natural buffers
with vegetation along fence lines.
2. Safety of the park and neighboring properties.
3. Rouge River access (flooding issues, future recreational opportunities).
4. Accessibility (walking, biking, path/trail surface materials, benches, shade structures).
5. Four-season access to the park.
Conclusions
Based on the response from Southfield residents and park users from a wider area, there was support
and appreciation for the partnership between the City of Southfield and Oakland County Parks. OCP is
grateful to attendees and respondents for their generous participation and understands the importance
of keeping the priorities they expressed at the forefront:
1. Paths and trails (walking, biking, cross-country skiing)
2. Natural spaces (trees, native plants, Rouge River, invasive species)
3. Clean, working restrooms
4. Access for people of all abilities
5. Honoring the history of the former Beech Woods golf course
Citywide Engagement
Public engagement was conducted in the fall of 2021 for development of the Southfield 5-year Parks and
Recreation Master Plan. Public engagement was also conducted in the spring and summer of 2021 for
the development of the Beech Woods Park Master Plan. The City of Southfield used the following public
engagement methods:
Online surveys
In-person and virtual public community open houses
Stakeholder meetings
Focus groups.
Details about these methods and their main takeaways are in the table below. Unless otherwise
indicated, the responses outlined below reflect the community’s priorities for the OCP-managed portion
Community Engagement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 16
of Beech Woods Park. Any responses specific to the Southfield-managed portion of Beech Woods Park
are noted.
Table 3: Beech Woods Park Master Plan Public Engagement (February – June 2021)
ACTIVITY MAIN TAKEAWAY(S)
Online Survey Respondents were asked to discuss their priorities for Beech Woods
Park. Residents appreciated the natural setting of Beech Woods Park
but desired more opportunities for gathering and activities. Residents
expressed a strong desire for multigenerational opportunities, catering
to youth, middle-aged, and senior populations.
Top community priorities for Beech Woods Park:
Nature trails and walking facilities
Family and kid-friendly spaces/amenities
Sidewalk connectivity, bike lanes, and multimodal
transportation access.
Focus Groups
Pop-Up Engagement Boards
Virtual Open Houses Attendees were asked to rank their preferred design concepts for
Beech Woods Park, as well as comment on provided scenarios.
Comments included a preference for ample parking spaces, as well as
incorporating safe walking and biking paths.
Table 4: Southfield Parks and Recreation Master Plan Public Engagement (October – November 2021)
QUESTION/TOPIC MAIN TAKEAWAY
Master Plan Survey Respondents were asked several questions related to Southfield Parks
and Recreation. Below are themes related to Beech Woods Park:
Beech Woods Park was the third most visited park in the City
of Southfield.
Biking and walking trails availability fell short of demand.
The most desired improvements included walking paths and
outdoor fitness.
Public Community Open
Houses (2)
Attendees participated in different engagement stations, including
preferences activities, drawing worksheets, an open discussion forum,
a survey station, and boards with input for each individual park and
facilities. Below are themes and priorities related to Beech Woods
Park:
General priorities of attendees included passive recreation,
connectivity to other parks, and accessibility throughout parks.
Attendees had previously enjoyed walking trails, natural areas,
and picnics.
Programs and amenities attendees were interested in
increasing included nature programming and walking trails.
Preserving and protecting the natural feel of Beech Woods
Park was a top priority.
Attendees wanted to create more natural buffers and berms
between Beech Woods Park and the surrounding residents.
Community Engagement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 17
QUESTION/TOPIC MAIN TAKEAWAY
Stakeholder Meeting Approximately 25 local community leaders from religious institutions,
businesses, and non-profit organizations came together in a
brainstorming session. Meeting attendees brought a wide range of
ideals and viewpoints.
Table 5: Public Engagement Comments – Southfield-managed Portion of Beech Woods Park
QUESTION/TOPIC MAIN TAKEAWAY
Beech Woods Master Plan
Engagement
Priorities for the non-OCP-managed portion of Beech Woods Park
include:
Improved golf facilities
New splash pad
Family and kid-friendly spaces/amenities
New dog park
Increased programming
Sidewalk connectivity
Bike lanes
Multimodal transportation access
Ample parking
Southfield Parks and Rec
Master Plan Engagement
Survey
Respondents were asked several questions about Southfield Parks and
Recreation. Below are themes and priorities related to Beech Woods
Park:
Beech Woods Recreation Center was the second most used
facility.
More than 80% of respondents had never used the Beech
Woods Wellness Center.
The open gym at the Beech Woods Recreation Center was the
most popular program/class offered by Southfield Parks and
Recreation.
The most desired improvements included a splash pad and
nature center.
Open Houses
Respondents participated in several activities in which they were
asked about their priorities for Southfield Parks and Recreation. Below
are themes related to Beech Woods Park:
Attendees wanted to add a nature center, indoor walking, and
disc golf.
Attendees wanted to remove the concession stand, as well as
the conceptual amphitheater and outdoor basketball courts in
the Beech Woods Park Master Plan.
Programs and facilities attendees prioritized included opening
indoor walking tracks, teen/youth fitness classes and activities,
and higher backboards at Beech Woods Recreation Center.
Community Engagement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 18
Countywide Engagement
Oakland County Parks conducted the Community Needs Assessment in 2022 which provided baseline
insight to the park needs of county residents (ETC Institute 2022). Main takeaways from this
engagement as it pertains to Hawthorne Park planning are as follows:
• Future of Parks and Recreation: When asked for their priority actions for Oakland County Parks,
the highest number of respondents felt managing freshwater and stormwater resources to
protect water quality and reducing flooding was very important (73%). Other actions
respondents felt were very important were maintaining roads and park infrastructure (61%) and
reducing waste by recycling and composting (60%).
• Barriers to Recreation: The highest reported barriers to recreation in the county-wide survey
were lack of information, not liking the outdoors and not having time. The least reported
barriers at the county level were a lack of adequate transportation and feeling unwelcome.
• Important Park Features: The amenities/facilities that were most important to respondents are
displayed on the chart below, with the top four choices being Trails-hiking, Farmers markets,
Beaches and Natural areas/open space.
• Most visited Facility Type- Trails, Farmers markets, Natural areas and open space and beaches
were also the top four choices selected by respondents as their most visited facility type.
• Priorities for Facility Investment- Priority Investment Ratings were developed based on the
importance of an amenity and the number of residents with an unmet need for that amenity.
The same four items were ranked at the highest PIR: Beaches, Trails-hiking, Farmers markets,
Natural areas and open space.
• Priorities for Programming: Measured using the same formula as the facility PIR, the top priority
programs are Adult fitness & wellness programs, Farmers market programs, Community
festivals, Art/antique/craft shows, and Food truck rallies.
Community Engagement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 19
Figure G: Parks and Recreation Facilities Most Important to Households by percentage of respondents who selected the items as
a top priority
Environmental Condition
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 20
Environmental Condition
Phase I Environmental Site Assessment
Phase I ESA was performed by ASTI that revealed one recognized environmental condition (REC):
“The Subject Property has been used as a golf course from 1975 to 2019. Pesticides have been applied
as part of golf course maintenance and care. Residual pesticide concentrations may remain in on-site
soil, particularly on putting greens where applications are typically the strongest. Residual pesticides
typically result in elevated metal concentrations in near surface soil.”
Final report is pending. Due to this REC, ASTI has recommended conducting a Phase II ESA.
Phase II Environmental Site Assessment
Pending.
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 21
Existing Conditions
Location
Beech Woods Park is in Southfield south of 9-Mile Road and east of Beech Road. The park is 81.86 acres.
Address: 22200 Beech Rd, Southfield, MI 48033
Parcel ID: 24-32-51-015
Township and Range: Township 1 North, Range 10 East
Park Description
Beech Woods Park is an 82-acre park which features the Beech Woods Recreation Center, tennis courts,
a playground, a picnic shelter, and open space. There is also a driving range, including portions that are
heated and lighted, for year-round play. The former 9-hole golf course is in the south part of the park.
The 39 acres that will comprise Southfield Oaks is part of this former golf course.
Grant History
Unless otherwise noted, all grant-funded facilities and improvements listed in the table below remain
open to the public for the purpose of outdoor recreation.
Grant
Number
Source Year Summary
26-00935 Land and Water Conservation
Fund
1977 Beech Woods Park Tennis Court. Develop 1
acre for lighted and fenced tennis courts,
area landscaping, and LWCF sign. $25,708
RP14-0115 Recreation Passport 2014 Beech Woods Group Picnic Area
Improvement Project. Improvement of the
large group picnic area adjacent to the
Beech Woods Recreation Center. Provide
new picnic site furnishings, repair
accessible ramp. $45,000
Other Property Restrictions
No additional property restrictions have been identified.
Site Analysis
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 22
Beech Woods Master Plan Site Analysis
Site Analysis
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 23
Natural Resources
For almost 2 million years, southeast Michigan and Oakland County were covered by glaciers that
retreated at the end of the last ice age approximately 10,000-15,000 years ago. Dominant landscape
features including hills, lakes, and rivers; and resulting natural communities consisting of plants and
animals are based on the soils and resulting ecosystems that formed since that glacial
retreat. Indigenous populations managed those ecosystems for thousands of years using techniques
such as prescribed fire. The introduction of European settlement in Oakland County in the 1800s
resulted in the conversion of natural ecosystems to agriculture and industry. Beech Woods Park was no
exception and was managed for agricultural purposes along the Rouge River.
Beech Woods Park was likely a mixed hardwood swamp and oak-hickory forest prior to European
settlement and shows remnants of its former composition in the woodlots and floodplain of the rouge
where golf course development was less impactful. The topography slopes towards the Rouge River in
the South and contains about a 40-foot elevation change from the driving range down to the river. The
natural communities change with that elevation as well and contain more dry oak dominated forests in
the higher areas that change to more remnant floodplain species and communities as the property gets
closer to the Rouge River. The entire park is located within the Rouge River Watershed and contains
two additional waterbodies that are not visible in their current configurations on historical aerials but
may be groundwater fed and could have been previously underground until uncovered during golf
course development. The Rouge River watershed is the second most developed in the state of Michigan,
is primarily surrounded by development and therefore has little connection to its historical floodplain.
Additionally, the Rouge is prone to extreme water level fluctuations especially during storm events.
Restoration of the Rouge will focus on bank stabilization, and reconnection of the river to the floodplain
to increase water storage capacity along with sediment and nutrient storage. Restoration of the
floodplain will benefit the health of the river, help reduce downstream flooding, and provide critical
wildlife habitat in a developed portion of Oakland County. Restoration of the two other small ponds will
focus on naturalizing their shorelines, removing existing seawalls, and aquatic plant restoration to
increase herpetofauna habitat. Stormwater assets on-site should be managed as naturally as possible
to support water absorption in an urban environment and prevent pressure on existing systems.
The forests on the property were primarily absent prior to the 1940’s aerials which indicates they were
farmed. The history of the woodlot and age of the forest will be investigated. The forest will be
managed to promote gap-phase dynamics, improve the diversity of understory plants, provide a wildlife
corridor including migratory bird stopover, and high-quality recreational experiences.
The former open golf course areas will be converted to a mix of prairie and floodplain habitat with
Michigan native species. This will be accomplished through control of existing invasive species, seeding
and planting of Oakland County native species and prescribed burning to stimulate the existing
seedbank and support new seeding. Additionally, shrub mowing may be necessary in the wooded
margins of the property to improve understory habitat.
Site Analysis
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 24
Boundaries
Boundaries Aerial Photo (2020) Photo
Chain link fence
Approximately 0.37 miles of
chain-link fence on the
southeast side of the park and
0.38 miles of chain-link fence on
the southwest side of the park.
The fences abut several
residences.
Photo 7/17/2023
Split rail fence
Approximately 100-feet long
split rail wooden fence along
the northern side river in the
southeast corner of the park.
Photo 7/17/2023
Rouge River
The Rouge River is the southern
boundary of Beech Woods.
Approximately a quarter mile of
the river flows through the
park. It is surrounded by trees
and wetlands on both sides.
Photo 7/17/2023
Site Analysis
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 25
Buildings
Buildings Aerial Photo (2020) Photo
Restroom building
Approximately 16’ x 20’
bathroom building near Hole
#4. The building is in fair
condition. Constructed prior to
1990.
Photo 7/17/2023
Hardscapes
Recreation Center Parking Lot
Asphalt parking lot, outlined in
yellow at right, has 208 parking
spaces; 7 are accessible. All
spaces are approximately 8’ x
18’. The parking lot serves the
Beech Woods Recreation Center,
as well as the adjacent driving
range and tennis courts.
The parking lot is outside of the
proposed OCP-operated area.
Aerial photo at right shows the
parking lot and the spatial
relationship with the future
Southfield Oaks.
Future
Southfield
Oaks
Site Analysis
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 26
Irrigation System
Irrigation System Aerial Photo (2023) Photo
South Irrigation Pond
Pond is within proposed OCP-
operated area. Approximately
30,000 SF area at time of aerial
photo. Constructed with golf
course in 1975.
Photo 7/17/2023
North Irrigation Pond
Pond is mostly outside of
proposed OCP-operated area.
Approximately 18,000 SF area
at time of aerial photo.
Constructed with golf course in
1975.
Photo 7/17/2023
Irrigation Lines, controllers, and heads
Locations of irrigation equipment is noted on the drawing below (detail not visible) and will be
incorporated into GIS.
Figure H: Irrigation Plan (undated)
Site Analysis
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 27
Open Space
Open Space Aerial Photo (2020) Photo
Former golf course
Beech Woods Golf Course (9-
hole) was constructed in 1975
and closed in 2019. Golf course
landscape and infrastructure is
still in place, but not
maintained.
Photo 7/17/2023
Figure I: Page from Beech Woods Golf Course construction drawings dated 3/30/1975.
Site Analysis
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 28
Figure J: Sketch showing approximate layout of former 9-hole golf course (2023 aerial)
Site Analysis
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 29
Signs
Signs Aerial Photo (2020) Photo
Golf course signs
There are several tee signs
throughout the former golf
course, indicating course
location. The signs are in good
condition.
Photo 7/17/2023
Trails and Boardwalks
Trails and Boardwalks Aerial Photo (2020) Photo
Cart paths
Asphalt cart paths remain
from the former golf
course, in mostly poor
condition.
Photo 7/17/2023
Utilities and Infrastructure
The following figures show locations of utilities and stormwater infrastructure at Beech Woods Park and
vicinity. See symbol legend at right.
Symbol legend – insert here.
Site Analysis
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 30
Figure K: Utility map at Beech Road and West 9-Mile Road
Site Analysis
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 31
Figure L: Utility map at central part of Beech Woods Park at Beech Road
Site Analysis
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 32
Figure M: Utility map at southern part of Beech Woods Park at Beech Woods Road and Shiawassee Road
Strategic Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 33
Strategic Plan
The strategic plan for Southfield Oaks is designed to guide the park into the future and identify what actions are
needed to make progress and how we will know the efforts were successful. It will help us to set priorities, focus
energy and resources, and ensure we are working toward common goals. It also will help us to evaluate results
and adjust our direction in response to a changing environment.
Park Vision
The park vision is a statement that inspires and guides us; it is aspirational and declares our intent and direction
and states the long-term outcome of our work.
Southfield Oaks at Beech Woods Park is a popular destination for Southfield and Oakland County
residents to explore and learn and leave feeling peaceful, refreshed, and rejuvenated. As an Oakland
County nature preserve, Southfield Oaks highlights the natural and cultural history of the area, helping to
educate and connect Oakland County residents. The park is safe and welcomes everyone. It is resilient
and helps create a more sustainable future for the people of Southfield and for the environment.
Park Goals
The park goals are the broader strategies that will lead us to the realization of our park vision.
1. Honor the value of parks and natural areas to the residents of the City of Southfield.
2. Collaborate with City officials, staff, organizations, and residents who have invested in and cared for the
park over the years.
3. Execute a transition to Oakland County Parks operation that is transparent, maintains open lines of
communication, and acknowledges the park is owned by the City of Southfield.
4. Operate the park and invest in improvements in a manner that is fiscally responsible for Oakland County
Parks and enhances the fiscal sustainability of the City of Southfield.
5. Improve and build sparse, minimal, and thoughtfully placed park features, including benches,
boardwalks, overlooks, docks, and restrooms, that are constructed with locally sourced and sustainable
materials, and that contribute to a more sustainable, green future through intentional stormwater
management and community education opportunities.
6. Establish Southfield Oaks as an Oakland County nature preserve.
7. Adhere to the seven Leave No Trace Principles1: Plan ahead and prepare; travel and camp on durable
surfaces; dispose of waste properly, leave what you find, minimize campfire impacts, respect wildlife,
and be considerate of other visitors.
8. Connect residents to nature through restoration of natural assets and nature education programming to
improve regional biodiversity and resilience to climate change.
1 LEAVE NO TRACE PRINCIPLES: These seven principles were established by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics,
and built on work by the US Forest Service, National Park Service, and Bureau of Land Management. The principles are
based on and informed by scientific research in the fields of recreation ecology and human dimensions of natural resources.
(www.LNT.org)
Strategic Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 34
9. Foster a welcoming environment for all park users through varied methods and processes, including
universal design[1], multi-lingual signage and promotion, clean, working restroom facilities, and regular
cleaning and maintenance.
10. Employ strategies involving design, programming, maintenance, and resident involvement to create a
safe park environment.
City of Southfield Parks and Recreation Master Plan
The City of Southfield Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2022-2026 identified potential park upgrades for the
OCP-managed portion of Beech Woods Park, including installing new signage and implementing the 2021 Beech
Woods Park Master Plan.
The Southfield Recreation Master Plan also identified upgrades for the Southfield-managed portion of Beech
Woods Park, which included installing new signage and a golf ball machine at the driving range.
The Recreation Master Plan notes that Beech Woods Park is one of the four most visited park by survey
respondents. The Beech Woods Recreation Center is the second most visited facility in the City of Southfield; the
open gym at Beech Woods Recreation Center was the most frequently attended class/program by survey
respondents. Moreover, survey respondents desired parks and recreation improvements, such as walking paths,
a nature center, and outdoor fitness equipment (Southfield 01/27/2022).
City of Southfield Beech Woods Park Master Plan
Due to the high maintenance and operating costs of the Beech Woods Golf Course, the City of Southfield
undertook a Beech Woods master planning project in 2019 to determine the future of the property. In June of
2021, the Beech Woods Park Master Plan was published, detailing community engagement, existing conditions
and research, and implementation and funding.
The Beech Woods Park Master Plan identified potential park upgrades for the OCP-managed portion of Beech
Woods Park, including:
Developing a network of paved and unpaved trails.
Investing in stormwater infrastructure.
Installing a boardwalk near the banks of the Rouge River.
Adding a new parking lot on the southern end of the park.
The Beech Woods Park Master Plan also identified upgrades for the Southfield-managed portion of Beech
Woods Park, which included, adding new basketball courts, expanding parking lots, developing a great lawn with
a sledding hill and amphitheater, and installing new picnic pavilions, a playground, and splash pad. (Southfield
7/30/2021)
The following images from the Beech Woods Park Master Plan relate to the former golf course area.
[1] Universal design results in a built environment that allows independent use and inclusive participation by people with
disabilities, without separating them from others. When building new facilities or renovating existing structures, we strive
to design universally accessible facilities and structures that are easily used by all.
Strategic Plan
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Timeline
Improvements and development at Southfield Oaks will be guided by community engagement, site conditions
and context, as well as available funding.
Key Dates and Milestones
November 29, 2023 – Executed date for Interlocal Partnership Agreement and beginning of Transition
Period.
December 29, 2023 – Deadline for City to provide grant agreements and other documentation of third-
party agreements and property restrictions to OCP.
January 15, 2023 – OCP deadlines to submit the following to the City:
o Park Action Plan
o Park Operations and Management Plan
o Capital Improvement Plan
February 15, 2023 – City deadline to provide review and comments to OCP on the following:
o Park Action Plan
o Park Operations and Management Plan
March 1, 2023 – City deadline to provide review and comment to OCP on the Capital Improvement Plan
March 31, 2024, or the date City Council approves the Park Action Plan, whichever occurs last – End of
Transition Period and beginning of OCP operation of park.
Strategic Plan
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December 31, 2024 – per American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) guidelines, the deadline for all ARPA-funded
contracts to be executed.
December 31, 2026 – per ARPA guidelines, the deadline for all ARPA-funded projects to be completed.
Park Objectives
The park objectives outline a variety of strategies and specific actions and projects that will implement the
overall vision and goals for the park. Many of the objectives are general in nature and will be developed in more
detail during park design and development. Objectives that are also identified as Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
projects are also indicated to the right of the individual objective and are further detailed in the CIP chapter.
I Park Operations
OCP responsibility for operating and managing Southfield Oaks, including programs and
events, is detailed in the Park Operations and Management Plan (POMP)
A OCP responsibility for operating and managing Southfield Oaks, including programs
and events, is detailed in the Park Operations and Management Plan (POMP) POMP
B OCP Nature Preserve: Park will be designated an OCP Nature Preserve and managed
per the OCP Nature Preserve Policy
II Natural Resources Management
A Natural Areas Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance unique natural
communities and promote biodiversity across the landscape.
1 Survey property and classify natural communities to develop management
recommendations
2 Treat existing invasive species populations utilizing mechanical, manual and
chemical methods.
3 Upland and Floodplain Restoration
Restore former open golf course areas to a mix of prairie and floodplain habitat
through control of existing invasive species, seeding and planting of Oakland
County native species and prescribed burning to stimulate the existing
seedbank and support new seeding
CIP SO001
4 Perform prescribed burns as part of restoration process and ongoing property
maintenance.
B Freshwater Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance wetland habitat and
associated aquatic organisms.
1 Perform aquatic monitoring of two on-site ponds, the Rouge River, and any
connecting or other on-site streams
2 Rouge River Restoration
Restore the Rouge River with bank stabilization and installation of woody
debris/structures, and reconnection of the river to the floodplain to increase
water storage capacity along with sediment and nutrient storage
CIP SO003
3 Ponds Restoration
Restore two ponds with shoreline naturalization, removal of existing seawalls,
and aquatic plant restoration to increase aquatic wildlife and herpetofauna
habitat.
CIP SO002
4 Documentation, monitoring, and maintenance of stormwater infrastructure
5 Compliance with Oakland County Phase II Stormwater permit
Strategic Plan
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C Forestry: Protect, restore, and enhance diverse forest systems and shade trees for
recreational users.
1 Survey existing forested areas and document non-native trees, forest pests and
diseases and hazardous trees along trails
2 Tree Planting
Develop and implement a tree planting plan for recreational shade and
biodiversity improvements
CIP SO004
3 Remove non-native trees as resources allow
4 Shrub mowing in the woods and along forest margins to improve understory
habitat.
D Wildlife: Protect, restore, and enhance rare and unique native wildlife species and
biodiversity.
1 Survey for non-native, nuisance and native wildlife species and populations
2 Improve wildlife habitat in conjunction with other restoration projects
III Facilities and Assets
A Accessibility and Universal Access
Perform accessibility audit of facilities, trails, and features to ensure compliance with
the ADA, prioritizing any non-compliant items to be brought up to standards.
Incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and
improvements to existing facilities are made.
B Boundaries
Inventory and assess all park boundaries and determine appropriate materials for
delineation and appropriate level of vegetation management. Identify and
implement projects to replace or remove damaged or deteriorated fences, gates, and
other boundary delineation, including golf course nets. Use the boundary
specification that accomplishes needed boundary identification and appropriate
security level, minimizes maintenance requirements, allows for wildlife movement,
and enhances the welcoming appearance of the park. Incorporate a neighborhood
communication plan into all external boundary projects.
1 External Boundary Evaluation/Installation
Evaluate park boundary and install appropriate type of boundary delineation
per OCP Boundary Standards that establishes the park boundary, discourages
encroachment, and allows for movement of wildlife.
CIP SO006
2 Internal Boundary
The transition between the OCP-managed Southfield Oaks and Southfield-
managed Beech Woods Park is not expected to be delineated by fences or
boundary markers. Appropriate signage will identify Southfield Oaks.
2 Park Entrance
Plan and install park ingress and egress in partnership with Southfield per
Interlocal Partnership Agreement (Sections 1.11, 4.10, 5.2)
C Buildings
Maintain an annually updated inventory of building roofs (materials, colors,
inspection results, installation, and repair dates) and building equipment
(manufacturer information, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) in the
park and forecast timeline for upgrades and replacements. Transition building
practices, equipment, materials, and supplies to sustainable alternatives to meet
sustainability targets and decrease impact on surrounding environments.
Strategic Plan
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1 Restroom Building Evaluation and Improvement/Replacement
Evaluate existing restroom building and renovate with new fixtures and finishes
and restore functionality for public use. Evaluate whether replacement in
existing or alternate location is the more feasible option.
CIP SO007
2 Shelters Evaluation/Potential Construction
Evaluate need for smaller shelters for shade and small gatherings. Design and
construct as appropriate and feasible.
CIP SO008
D Hardscapes
1 Entrance and parking
Design and construction of entrance road and parking lots is by Southfield in
partnership with OCP per Interlocal Partnership Agreement (Sections 1.11,
4.10, 5.2)
E Information Technology
Identify and implement projects to improve customer service, park and building
safety, staff efficiency, workplace conditions with technological innovation and
equipment. Actions may include: 1) security cameras and lighting, 2) enhanced wi-fi
connectivity for staff and public, 3) point-of-sale improvements, 4) vehicle and
pedestrian counters, and 5) timed, automatic locking systems.
1 Evaluate the need for technological improvements at the park and install
infrastructure and equipment as feasible and appropriate.
CIP SO011
E Irrigation System
1 Decommission existing golf course irrigation infrastructure; incorporate
irrigation ponds into natural resource restoration
F Open Space
1 Maintain open space areas for unstructured play
2 Provide universally accessible site furnishings throughout park – e.g., benches,
picnic tables, shade elements.
G Playgrounds
Design and construct playgrounds and access routes that comply with the
requirements of the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) and the Consumer Products
Safety Commission at a minimum. Apply Universal Design principles wherever
possible to foster play between people with and without disabilities and
intergenerationally. Address the needs of the whole child with a variety of ground
level, elevated level, and sensory experiences. Consider linking playgrounds to other
spaces to play - in nature, in open space, or with water. Consider associated
amenities such as shade structures, benches, and drinking water, as well as
convenient parking and restroom access.
1 Play Pockets Design/Installation
Based on public engagement, consider the need for additional smaller play
elements and sensory features. If determined to be feasible, incorporate play
area design into a larger design process that incorporates universal design; and
considers community need, site context, and natural resources impacts.
CIP SO010
2 Consider installation of adult exercise equipment
H Signs
1 Identification of Southfield Oaks
2 Trailhead signage
3 Wayfinding signage
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4 Natural resources interpretive signage
5 Historical interpretive signage, including Indigenous history and information
honoring former golf course use
I Stormwater Infrastructure – See II B Freshwater Stewardship
J Sustainability Improvements
Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets
including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing, or installing renewable
energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and
access, reducing water, herbicide, and disposable product use, improving stormwater
resilience, and reduction and management of waste.
1 Environmental Sustainability Evaluation/Potential Installations
Consider the installation of environmental sustainability improvements at the
park and install infrastructure and equipment as feasibility and appropriate.
CIP SO009
2 Strategize how to provide shelter and/or relief from extreme heat events
K Trails and Boardwalks
New trail development is supported by a comprehensive planning process that
maximizes the trail user experience within the context of long-term sustainability.
Trails are designed and constructed based on a parkwide trail plan is suited to site
conditions, minimizes impacts on natural areas, and meets the requirements of the
Americans with Disabilities Act and the Architectural Barriers Act Standards. To the
extent possible, consider connectivity within the regional trail network and local
pathways.
1 Trail and Boardwalk Network and Construction
Design and construct a looped trail network that maximizes viewsheds,
provides a variety of habitat experiences as well as access to amenities, and
provides connectivity with future entrance road, parking area, and park to be
located on City property. Trailheads, upland trails, and boardwalks through
wetlands are universally accessible and comply with OCP Trail Standards.
CIP SO013
L Utilities and Infrastructure
M Water Access
1 Rouge River Viewing and Access Structure
Design and construct universally accessible structures that are incorporated
into the Trail and Boardwalk Network and provide views and enjoyment of the
Rouge River. Determine the feasibility of incorporating fishing, kayak launch, or
other access.
CIP SO005
III Connectivity
A Neighborhood Connectivity
Maintain existing connections to adjacent neighborhoods via city sidewalks
B Connectivity with Beech Woods Park
Maintain a seamless transition between Southfield Oaks and Beech Woods Park with
signage denoting OCP operation and Healthy Communities program investments by
OCP
C Public Transit
Evaluate access via SMART bus and other public transport
V Property Management
A Property Agreements and Restrictions
Coordinate all design and new uses with existing property restrictions
Strategic Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 42
1 DNR grant agreements
2 Add appropriate habitat to the OCP Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake
Implementation Plan to ensure Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake protection
B Property Acquisition – Acquisition of additional property is not anticipated
Capital Improvement Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 43
Capital Improvement Plan
Capital Improvement Plan
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Capital Improvement Plan
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Capital Improvement Plan
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Capital Improvement Plan
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Park Operations and Management Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 48
Park Operations and Maintenance Plan
Park Operations and Management Plan
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Park Operations and Management Plan
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Park Operations and Management Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 51
Park Operations and Management Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 52
Letter of Intent 9/7/2022
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 53
Letter of Intent
Letter of Intent 9/7/2022
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 54
Letter of Intent 9/7/2022
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 55
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 56
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
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Interlocal Partnership Agreement
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Interlocal Partnership Agreement
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Interlocal Partnership Agreement
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Interlocal Partnership Agreement
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Interlocal Partnership Agreement
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Interlocal Partnership Agreement
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Interlocal Partnership Agreement
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Interlocal Partnership Agreement
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Interlocal Partnership Agreement
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Interlocal Partnership Agreement
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Interlocal Partnership Agreement
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Interlocal Partnership Agreement
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Interlocal Partnership Agreement
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Interlocal Partnership Agreement
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Interlocal Partnership Agreement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 72
Boundary Survey
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 73
Boundary Survey
Boundary survey is in progress.
Nature Preserve Policy
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 74
Nature Preserve Policy
Nature Preserve Policy
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 75
Southfield Approvals
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 76
Southfield City Approvals
INSERT documentation.
References
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 77
References
City of Southfield and County of Oakland. 11/16/2023. Interlocal Partnership Agreement. Waterford MI:
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission.
City of Southfield and County of Oakland. 9/7/2022. Letter of Intent. Waterford MI: Oakland County
Parks and Recreation Commission.
ETC Institute. 2022. Oakland County Parks Needs Assessment Findings Report. Waterford MI: Oakland
County Parks and Recreation Commission.
OCP. 1/26/2023. Oakland County Parks 5-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027. Waterford
MI: Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission.
Southfield. 01/27/2022. 2022-2026 Southfield Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Southfield MI: City of
Southfield.
Southfield. 7/30/2021. Beech Woods Park Master Plan. Southfield MI: City of Southfield.
Southfield. 12/12/2023. Sustainable Southfield 2.0 Comprehensive Master Plan 2023-2028. Southfield
MI: City of Southfield City Council.
Appendix A: Public Engagement Report
PARK ACTION PLAN 2023-2028: Southfield Oaks / Beech Woods Park Page 78
Appendix A: Public Engagement Report
Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park
Park Action Plan
David H. Shepherd Park,
City of Oak Park, Michigan
DRAFT DATE: 1/13/2024
Approved by Oakland County Parks Commission: DATE TBD
A pproved by Oak Park – DATE TBD
RETURN TO AGENDA
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission
J. David VanderVeen, Acting Chairman
Ebony Bagley, Secretary
Christine Long, Executive Committee Member
Yolanda Charles, Commissioner
Andrea LaFontaine, Commissioner
Jim Nash, Commissioner
Nancy L. Quarles, Commissioner
E. Lance Stokes, Commissioner
Executive Leadership Team
Chris Ward, Director – Park and Recreation
Melissa Prowse, Manager – Planning and
Development
Jim Dunleavy, Manager – Park and Recreation
Operations
Aaron Stepp, Manager – Business and Internal
Services
City of Oak Park Mayor and City Council
Marian McClellan, Mayor
Carolyn Burns, Mayor Pro Tem
Julie Edgar, Council Member
Shaun Whitehead, Council Member
Solomon Radner, Council Member
City of Oak Park Staff
Erik Tungate, City Manager
Crystal VanVleck, Deputy City Manager of
Community Services
Dave DeCoster, Deputy City Manager of
Municipal Services
Laurie Stasiak, Recreation Director
Courtney Flynn, Director of Communications and
Public Information
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
2800 Watkins Lake Road
Waterford, MI 48328
OaklandCountyParks.com
Oakland County Parks Staff Contacts – Planning and Resource Development
Donna Folland, Chief (248) 736-9087 follandd@oakgov.com
Simon Rivers, Associate Planner (248) 421-9033 riverss@oakgov.com
Oakland County Parks Staff Contacts – Park Operations
Erik Koppin, Chief of Operations – South District (248) 909-7702 koppine@oakgov.com
Doug Ammon, Park Supervisor – Catalpa and Glen Oaks (248) 851-8356 ammond@oakgov.com
Oakland County Parks Staff Contacts – Natural Resources and Nature Education
Sarah Cook-Maylen, Chief of Natural Resources and Sustainability (248) 343-1353
maylens@oakgov.com
Mary Blumka, Supervisor of Nature Education (248) 625-6473 blumkam@oakgov.com
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 1
Table of Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................2
Community Context....................................................................................................................................................8
Community Engagement ......................................................................................................................................... 13
Environmental Condition......................................................................................................................................... 20
Existing Conditions .................................................................................................................................................. 21
Strategic Plan ........................................................................................................................................................... 36
Capital Improvement Plan ....................................................................................................................................... 44
Letter of Intent ........................................................................................................................................................ 47
Interlocal Partnership Agreement ........................................................................................................................... 50
Boundary Survey ..................................................................................................................................................... 64
Oak Park Approvals ................................................................................................................................................. 67
References ............................................................................................................................................................... 68
Appendix A: Park Operations and Management Plan ............................................................................................. 69
Appendix B: Public Engagement Report .................................................................................................................. 75
Introduction
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 2
Introduction
David H. Shepherd Park resides on the ancestral, traditional, and contemporary lands of the
Anishinaabe, known as the Three Fires Confederacy, comprised of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and
Potawatomi. Evidence of a Native presence on and near the land includes its location between the
Saginaw Trail to the west and several secondary trails located in the eastern part of Southfield
Township.
In 1835 Appollos and Abigail Dewey became the first people to purchase the land that became the park.
1846 the Deweys sold the land to Betsey, Abigail’s sister, and her husband Abner Davis. Over time the
land was owned by the McClelland, Harman, Hanrahan, Chevillot and Siterlet families, the latter which
owned it into the early 1940s.
After Oak Park was incorporated as a city in 1945, a civic center was developed which included a park
known initially as Major Park but called “Oak Park Park” by many residents. The park included a hill
designed for sledding and created using truckloads of dirt from the many basement excavations which
had resulted from the housing boom in the 1950s. In 1981 the park was renamed David H. Shepherd
Park, in honor of a long-time serving mayor who had died of a heart attack that year.
Oakland County Parks (OCP) and the City of Oak Park have entered into the Oak Park Partnership
agreement aimed at rejuvenating and maintaining the northern 17 acres of Shepherd Park. Under the
terms of the Oak Park Partnership agreement, Oakland County will invest more than $1.5 million to
improve park facilities and assume long-term responsibility for park management and maintenance. This
Park Action Plan is intended to serve as a roadmap for both the city and the county for the future of
Shepherd Park.
Figure A: Aerial photograph of 17-acre area proposed partnership area
17-acre future
Oak Park Woods
at Shepherd Park
Introduction
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 3
Oak Park noted this partnership in its Recreation Master Plan as:
“Coordination with Oakland County to incorporate mobility, recreation, infrastructure and utility
plans at the local level, securing state and local funding for implementation (most recently seen
in the Oak Park Complete Streets Plan). Partnership with Oakland County also encourages
participation in county-wide programming, special events, and sharing of resources. The City is
working with the Oakland County on a long term agreement for a partnership and investment to
Shepherd Park”. (Oak Park 2023, p.33)
Figure B: Event at Shelter 1 at Shepherd Park 1
1 Photo credit: Oak Park Recreation Master Plan (Oak Park 2023)
Introduction
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 4
Definitions
Several agencies and locations are mentioned throughout the document that may also have alternate
names or acronyms. These items may also be referenced differently in the attached legal documents
(Letter of Intent and Interlocal Partnership Agreement). The definition list below provides the terms
used throughout this document.
ARPA – American Recovery Plan Act State and Local Recovery Funds
David H. Shepherd Park – the 57-acre park located between Northfield Blvd and Oak Park Blvd, west
of Coolidge Hwy and east of Church Street, owned by Oak Park.
Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan – The OCBOC-approved program
allocating ARPA State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds for OCPRC to invest in park and outdoor
recreational spaces in OCP and community parks.
Oak Park – refers to the City of Oak Park, its geographic location, and its government.
Oak Park Woods – refers to Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park, the shortened form of the park name
used in this document.
Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park – proposed name to refer to the future Oakland County Park,
located at the northern 17 acres of Shepherd Park.
Oakland County Board of Commissioners – Oakland County’s governing body, which also approves
certain approvals made by the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission – specifically those
concerning land acquisition, grant funding, and use agreements.
Oakland County Parks – the park system, its land and operations, which is overseen by the Oakland
County Parks and Recreation Commission.
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission – the 10-member board that is responsible for
planning, developing, and operating parks and recreation facilities, making rules and regulations,
establishing a fee structure, approving budget expenditures, acquiring new parkland, acceptance of
grant funding, and the entrance into use agreements.
OCBOC – acronym for Oakland County Board of Commissioners
OCP – acronym for Oakland County Parks
OCPRC – acronym for Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission
Shepherd Park – refers to David H. Shepherd Park
Introduction
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 5
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan
The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 updated the vision of Oakland County
Parks (OCP) to focus beyond the parks currently managed by OCP to ensuring that all Oakland County
residents experience the benefits of recreation.
“Everyone in Oakland County has access to a park, public space, or recreational opportunity to
relax, be active, socialize, and connect with nature.”
The Recreation Master Plan went further to identify four core values that would be the basis for
decisions and strategies in the coming five years.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Ground all actions and decisions in equity and justice and provide
parks and recreation services that feel safe and welcoming to everyone.
Health and Wellness: Increase access to the spaces and experiences that promote physical,
mental, and social health for all.
Environmental Sustainability and Natural Resources Stewardship: Plan, build, and operate our
parks and services in a sustainable manner while collaborating with local communities. Care for
the natural environment, preserve land and open space for future generations, meet current
recreation needs without compromising the future, and build community resilience and
adaptation to climate change.
Fiscal Responsibility and Organizational Excellence: Implement our mission with a robust,
innovative, and diverse parks and recreation organization and ground our decisions in sound
fiscal policy.
These core values are the foundation for new community partnerships to enhance the access and
quality of recreation in local communities in Oakland County. (OCP 1/26/2023)
Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan
In October 2022, the Oakland County Board of Commissioners approved allocation to the Oakland
County Parks and Recreation Commission for $15M in Oakland County American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)
State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to invest in park and outdoor recreational spaces. OCP agreed to
match the ARPA allocation with a minimum amount of $5.2M (OCP 1/26/2023).
Approximately 60% of this funding was designated for investment in community parks with the
remainder to be invested in existing OCP parks. Investment in community parks has the following
objectives:
• Transform and eliminate historic inequities in the distribution of the benefits of the Oakland
County Parks system and significantly enhance our capacity to serve residents of densely
populated diverse core urban cities.
• Rejuvenate municipal parks that are underutilized due to existing conditions that compromise
accessibility, participation, and use by residents, including outdated or inoperable recreation
equipment and facilities, deteriorating infrastructure, and disinvestment and underutilization of
natural resources/park amenities.
Introduction
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 6
• Sustain the one-time investment of ARPA funding through partnerships that will incorporate
four existing municipal parks into the Oakland County Parks system, securing long-term, ongoing
investments from OCP in park facilities and maintenance.
• Expand accessibility and use of existing community park facilities to serve regional recreational
needs.
• Make investments in park infrastructure that will have the greatest impact in improving the
health and well-being of our residents.
• Provide much needed financial aid to chronically underfunded communities to address priority
local park and outdoor recreation needs.
Prior to the BOC approval of the Healthy Communities Investment Plan, the City of Oak Park and OCPRC
signed a Letter of Intent that signified their intention to develop a partnership to invest Oakland County
ARPA funds in improvements at the David H. Shepherd Park and for OCP to operate these areas as parts
of an Oakland County Park for an agreed period of time (City of Oak Park and County of Oakland
9/7/2022).
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
The City of Oak Park and OCP negotiated and signed an Interlocal Partnership Agreement that details
the long-term relationship intended to improve David H. Shepherd Park for the residents of Oak Park
and Oakland County, to be managed by OCP as an Oakland County Park. This Park Action Plan and its
component parts are requirements of the Interlocal Partnership Agreement (City of Oak Park and
County of Oakland 8/8/2023).
The Park Action Plan fulfills multiple requirements provided by the Interlocal Partnership Agreement.
The table below relates the chapters of the Park Action Plan to individual sections of the Interlocal
Partnership Agreement.
Park Action Plan Section Interlocal Partnership Agreement Reference / Notes
Introduction 4.7 Park Action Plan
Community Context
Community Engagement 3.3.4 Park Planning
Existing Conditions 3.2.1. Grants & Endowments
3.2.2. Agreements between City and Third Parties
3.3.3. Premises Inspections
Environmental Condition 3.4 Environmental Condition
3.4.1 Environmental Assessments
3.4.2 Copies of Environmental Assessments
6.4 Liability for Environmental Matters
Strategic Plan 2.6 Designation of Park & Name of Park
3.3.4 Park Planning
3.3.5 Park Programming
4.4 Park Improvement Projects
4.5 Park Maintenance/Repairs
4.7. Park Action Plan
4.8 Park Operations and Management Plan
4.9 Park Capital Improvement Plan
Introduction
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 7
Park Action Plan Section Interlocal Partnership Agreement Reference / Notes
4.10 Park Access/Parking
4.14 Signs
5.6 Park Grants
Capital Improvement Plan 1.2 Capital Improvement Project
4.4 Park Improvement Projects
4.9 Park Capital Improvement Plan
5.1 Initial OCPRC Investment
Park Operations and
Management Plan
1.13 Park Fees and Charges
1.14 Park Revenue
4.3 Park Management and Operations
4.5 Park Maintenance/Repairs
4.6 Park Utilities
4.8 Park Operations and Management Plan
4.10 Park Access/Parking
4.12 Park Rules
4.13 Park Security
4.14 Signs
4.16 Sponsorship of Events/Programs at Park by Third Parties
4.17 Use of Park by Third Parties
4.18 Use of Park by the City/County
5.2 Maintenance Fee
5.3 Establishment of Park Fees & Charges
5.4 Park Revenue
5.5 Annual Accounting and Audits
5.6 Park Grants
The final sections, provided for reference, include:
Letter of Intent
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
Boundary Surveys
Oak Park Approval
References
Appendix A: Public Engagement Report
Community Context
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 8
Community Context
David H. Shepherd Park is on the western side of Oak Park, one of the most diverse cities in Oakland
County. Understanding Oak Park’s demographic characteristics will help Oakland County Parks (OCP)
evaluate if our community engagement is reaching the people of Oak Park and if Oak Park residents are
accessing and enjoying the park features and activities at the park.
Because OCP is a county agency, there is also a data analysis provided of all Oakland County residents
and all households within a 10-minute drive of the park.
Community Description – City of Oak Park
The City of Oak Park is located directly north of Detroit, part of the Metro Detroit metropolitan area.
Oak Park has a total area of 5 square miles. Oak Park is bounded by the City of Southfield to the west;
the City of Berkley and the City of Huntington Woods to the
north; the City of Pleasant Ridge and the City of Ferndale to
the east; the Charter Township of Royal Oak to the south
and east; and the City of Detroit to the south.
The land that now makes up Oak Park was first surveyed by
European-American settlers in 1817, designated as Royal
Oak Township by Michigan’s first governor, Lewis Cass. The
township originally also comprised the areas that now make
up Hazel Park, Ferndale, Madison Heights, Pleasant Ridge,
Huntington Woods, Royal Oak, Berkley, Clawson, and the
Charter Township of Royal Oak. Oak Park was incorporated
as a village in 1927 and later as a city in 1945, branding itself
as the “City with a Future” (Oak Park 11/9/2020).
In 2023, Oak Park has a population of 29,827 people. With a population density of 5,912 residents per
square mile, Oak Park is one of the most densely population municipalities in Oakland County. It is also
one of the more diverse cities in Oakland County, with a Diversity Index of 59 compared to 54 for
Oakland County. The Diversity Index from Esri represents the likelihood that two persons, chosen at
random from the same area, belong to different races or
ethnic groups. The city has a majority Black population,
with 56% Black/African American, 37% White, and 5%
reporting two or more races. Oak Park is also home to a
large and vibrant Jewish community. The median
household income for Oak Park residents is $58,480,
with 12% of households below the federal poverty level.
The City of Oak Park owns 14 public parks and/or
recreational facilities, totaling 100.8 acres of land. The
2023 Elevate Oak Park Parks and Recreation Master Plan
& Asset Management Study, adopted by the City Council
on December 16, 2022, inventories these recreation
Community Context
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 9
sites, and sets goals for future improvements. Shepherd Park is the only city park identified in the
Recreation Master Plan as a community park. Community parks are designed for both day and evening
activities, providing amenities like large play structures, recreation fields, walking trails, and swimming
pools and attracting users of all ages. (Oak Park 2023)
10-Minute Drive-Time Analysis
With future investment and operation of Shepherd Park by Oakland County Parks in collaboration with
the City of Oak Park, we also consider the demographic characteristics of people living within a 10-
minute drive of the park. The 10-minute drive time area includes all of Pontiac and parts of Royal Oak,
Southfield, Berkley, Ferndale, and Hazel Park. The population within the 10-minute drive of Shepherd
Park is 206,400 people.
The 10-minute drive time area is slightly more diverse than the City of Oak Park and Oakland County
with a diversity index of 59 compared to 54 for Oakland County and 57 for Oak Park. 49% of the
population is Black/African American, compared to 56% in Oak Park and 14% in Oakland County. Like
Oak Park, the Hispanic population is 2.6%, with less than 2% speaking Spanish in the home.
The median household income for residents of this area is $66,900, with 14% of households below the
federal poverty level. See data tables at the end of this section.
Figure C: Map of the geographic area within a 10-minute drive of Shepherd Park
Community Context
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 10
Table 1. Demographic comparison tables
Geography
2023 Total
Population
2023 Median
Household
Income
2021 Total
Households
Oak Park City, MI 29,827 $ 58,480 12,262
Shepherd Park (10-minute drive) 206,396 $ 66,863 90,084
Oakland County, MI 1,285,938 $ 91,020 520,393
Table 2. Demographic comparison – Diversity Index
Geography 2023 Diversity Index
Oak Park City, MI 57
Shepherd Park (10-minute drive) 59
Oakland County, MI 54
Figure D: Demographic comparison – Race and ethnicity
2023
White
Population
2023
Black/Afric
an
American
Population
2023
American
Indian/Ala
ska Native
Population
2023
Asian
Population
2023
Pacific
Islander
Population
2023
Other
Race
Population
2023
Population
of Two or
More
Races
2023
Hispanic
Population
Oak Park City, MI 43%56%0%2%0%1%5%2%
Shepherd Park (10 minutes)69%49%0%2%0%1%5%3%
Oakland County, MI 36%13%0%9%0%2%6%5%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
Pe
r
c
e
n
t
2
0
2
3
p
o
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
Community Context
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 11
Figure E: Demographic comparison – Languages spoken in the home
Figure F: Demographic comparison – Age distribution (2023)
2021 Speak
only English
2021 Speak
Spanish
2021 Speak
Other Indo-
European
Language
2021 Speak
Asian- Pacific
Island
Language
2021 Speak
Other
Language
Oak Park City, MI 87%2%4%3%5%
Shepherd Park (10 minutes)93%1%2%1%2%
Oakland County, MI 84%3%6%4%3%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
Pe
r
c
e
n
t
2
0
2
1
p
o
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
Age
0-4
Age
5-9
Age
10-
14
Age
15-
19
Age
20-
24
Age
25-
29
Age
30-
34
Age
35-
39
Age
40-
44
Age
45-
49
Age
50-
54
Age
55-
59
Age
60-
64
Age
65-
69
Age
70-
74
Age
75-
79
Age
80-
84
Age
85+
Oak Park City, MI 6%6%7%6%6%7%7%6%6%6%6%6%7%6%5%3%2%2%
Shepherd Park (10 minutes)5%5%6%6%6%7%7%7%7%6%6%6%7%6%5%4%2%2%
Oakland County, MI 5%6%6%6%5%6%6%6%6%6%7%7%7%6%5%3%2%2%
0%
1%
2%
3%
4%
5%
6%
7%
8%
Pe
r
c
e
n
t
2
0
2
3
p
o
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
Community Context
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 12
Figure G: Demographic comparison – Household income distribution (2023)
Figure H: Demographic comparison – Income and disability
Less than
$15,000
$15,000-
$24,999
$25,000-
$34,999
$35,000-
$49,999
$50,000-
$74,999
$75,000-
$99,999
$100,000
-
$149,999
$150,000
-
$199,999
$200,000
or
greater
Oak Park City, MI 9%9%9%14%19%14%17%3%5%
Shepherd Park (10 minutes)11%7%7%12%17%14%17%8%7%
Oakland County, MI 7%5%5%9%14%13%19%12%15%
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
Pe
r
c
e
n
t
2
0
2
3
p
o
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
12.0%
18.6%
2.8%
30.9%
13.5%
15.3%
2.9%
26.2%
8.3%7.0%
1.5%
22.6%
0.0%
5.0%
10.0%
15.0%
20.0%
25.0%
30.0%
35.0%
2021 Households Below the
Poverty Level
2021 Households Receiving
Food Stamps/SNAP
2021 Owner Households
with No Vehicles
2021 Households with 1+
Persons with a Disability
Oak Park City, MI Shepherd Park (10 minutes)Oakland County, MI
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PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 13
Community Engagement
The Park Action Plan is built on input from the public, park users, and local officials and stakeholders.
We seek engagement on multiple levels and on multiple occasions and will continue to engage the
community as planning and on-the-ground activities commence. Two types of community engagement
will be done for Shepherd Park: planning engagement prior to creating a vision and goals and a
preliminary action plan for the park and design engagement to engage the community in planning
specific amenities and improvements as part of an overall master plan.
Planning Engagement
The purpose of planning engagement is to understand how people engage with the park and what is
important to them about the park. We are not proposing anything, we are listening. The community
engagement summarized in this Park Action Plan is planning engagement.
As part of planning engagement, we communicate with stakeholders and conduct research to help us
better understand the community and its characteristics such as languages spoken, demographics,
median income, and potential barriers to park use. The results of research and engagement will help
prioritize design of future improvements and help guide decisions.
Design Engagement
The purpose of this engagement is to share multiple design scenarios with the public and get
information on their preferences and why. This will be led by the design consultant with support from
OCP Planning and Design staff. The planning engagement above will provide important information
about the community’s priorities and needs into the design process. Following an internal review
process, the consultant will develop multiple design visions/layouts. After we determine these are
feasible alternatives, we will host one or more open houses that include a design charette where
designers and staff share multiple concepts with the community and ask for their input. Design
engagement will occur after this Park Action Plan is approved and the design process commences.
Existing Community Engagement Data
We consulted reports from recent community engagement. The key documents consulted for Shepherd
Park are the 5-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan documents for Oak Park (Oak Park 2023) and
Oakland County (OCP 1/26/2023).
Shepherd Park Community Engagement
Purpose
The purpose of this public engagement was to understand the stakeholders and community members
who are already invested in Shepherd Park, to gain insights they might have about the park, and to
evaluate what the community would like to see under Oakland County Parks management and through
capital improvements. It was also our intention to reach community members who are not currently
engaged in the park or who have not historically felt welcomed or invited into parks, to identify barriers
to their participation, and address gaps in equitable park access.
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Methods
The public engagement methods used include an online survey and three public open houses held in the
community. The survey was available online September 13-October 9, 2023. There were 139 unique
survey entries, including 119 completed online and 20 on paper. 123 surveys, nearly 90% of survey
responses, were from Oak Park.
Three open houses were held in Oak Park with approximately 40 participants. Open house participants
had a variety of ways in which to engage and provide input on Shepherd Park. A large park maps allowed
opportunities to point out special features, memories or notable locations, and many indicated using the
space for family gathering and play. A second board presented participants with the opportunity to
identify amenities and features that they felt were the highest priority or best fit. Paper copies of the
survey were available at the open houses.
Understanding and responding to the needs of Oak Park residents is a priority of this partnership.
Oakland County Parks used strategic methods to invite Oak Park residents to participate, both in the
survey and to engage with OCP during the public open houses. A few examples of these methods were:
Holding community meetings in Oak Park with games, activities, and more.
Sending out postcards to all Oak Park addresses with event dates and QR code linking to survey.
Publicity and Promotion
Several methods were used to reach as many engaged park users as possible including social media
posts, e-marketing messages, news releases, and hosting community events in Oak Park. A postcard was
mailed to all Oak Park addresses (approximately 10,300 addresses).
Survey Results Summary
Survey respondents were generally supportive of the partnership between Oakland County Parks and
the City of Oak Park to revitalize Shepherd Park. Most respondents (95.7%) have visited Shepherd Park
and have enjoyed it. Almost all respondents expressed excitement at the prospect of the park
revitalization project.
Importance of park features
Both Oak Park respondents and regional respondents value Shepherd Park for its 57-acres of diverse and
community-friendly uses. The most important park features for respondents are listed below.
Paths and walking trails
Restrooms
Healthy forest
Native flowers and pollinators
Quiet areas and scenic views
Experiences and barriers to enjoyment of parks
To ask about negative or unwelcoming experiences at Shepherd Park or other parks, a list of scenarios
was provided that included: parks not well-maintained; limited information; feeling unwelcome; limited
accessibility; entrance fees too costly; language barriers; and none of the above. Nearly half of the
responses to this question reported no negative experiences while visiting Shepherd Park or other parks.
For respondents who reported negative experiences at parks, more than two-thirds reported concerns
regarding maintenance.
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Open-ended survey responses
Respondents had several opportunities to leave open-ended responses in the survey; over 250
responses were collected from nearly 140 respondents. Open ended responses gave insight into
Shepherd Park over the years, and some primary themes emerged.
Restroom accessibility, lighting, safety, and cleanliness were mentioned frequently.
The wooden train outside of the OCP boundary was identified as an important piece of the
park’s history that should not be removed.
Respondents enjoy the walking path and are passionate about the natural beauty of Shepherd
Park.
Oak Park residents are happy to see the park being invested in and excited to enjoy it for many
years to come.
Summary Open House Results
Oakland County Parks hosted three park planning open houses in Oak Park. The two events held at the
Oak Park Community Center were both planned as free community events with mobile recreation units
at Shelter 1 in Shepherd Park. On both days, inclement weather forced the cancellation of the mobile
recreation units and the open houses moved indoors to the Community Center. This resulted in much
lower attendance than expected. The events took place at the following times and saw estimated
participation numbers as indicated:
Tuesday, Sept. 26, 5 - 7 pm – Public Open House, Oak Park Community Center (approximately 10
attendees)
Wednesday, Sept. 27, 12 - 2 pm – Public Open House, Oak Park Farmer’s Market (approximately
25 attendees)
Thursday, Oct. 5, 5 - 7 pm - Public Open House, Oak Park Community Center (approximately 5
attendees)
The events were attended by approximately 40 community members, including families and children.
Attendees of all ages were invited to participate in the engagement, including a prioritization exercise
and completing the survey if they had not already done so.
A board presented participants with opportunities to vote for amenities and features that they felt were
the highest priority or best fit. The prioritization board reflected the importance the community puts on
accesible restrooms, event and entertainment spaces, quiet areas and scenic views, and fun playground
features.
A large map of the property was provided, and attendees were encouraged to use sticky notes to
indicate areas of significance. This significance could be personal, such as a memory or something they
had done in the park, many indicating family gatherings and play, or it could be informational, such as
known wildlife, or any concerns they might have.
The prioritization exercise was very popular, as attendees were given a certain number of stickers with
which to cast their votes directly on the boards. In total, over 100 votes were cast.
Conclusions
Based on the response from both Oak Park residents and park users from a wider area, there is strong
support for the future operation of and investment in the park by Oakland County Parks. OCP is grateful
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PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 16
to attendees and respondents for their generous participation and understands the importance of
keeping the priorities they expressed at the forefront:
Preserving nature and walking paths.
Maintaining a clean, safe park with working amenities.
Provide spaces where everyone is welcome to gather, relax, and play.
Citywide Engagement
Public engagement was conducted in the spring and summer of 2022 for development of the City of Oak
Park 5-year Parks and Recreation Master Plan using the following methods:
Online discussion and mapping activity
Community meetings
Details about these methods and their main takeaways are in the table below. Unless otherwise
indicated, the responses outlined below reflect the community’s priorities for the OCP-managed portion
of Shepherd Park. Any responses specific to the Oak Park-managed portion of Shepherd Park will be
noted.
Table 3: Community Engagement – Phase 1 (June 2022)
ACTIVITY MAIN TAKEAWAY(S)
MURAL Board (online) –
Priority Sort
Respondents were asked to rank their priorities for Open Spaces and
Mobility. Below are their responses.
Open Spaces
1. Arts and Culture
2. Placemaking
3. Recreation and Play
4. Public Safety
5. Environmental Sustainability
Mobility
1. Bike & Pedestrian Infrastructure and Safety
2. Accessibility
3. Streetscape Design
4. Transportation Impacts & Parking
General Comments
• Priorities are different for each park.
• Streets should be designed for accessibility.
• A regional bus system is needed.
• Create bike lanes.
MURAL Board (online) –
Mapping Activity
Comments
Respondents desired the following amenities, combined into the
following themes:
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PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 17
ACTIVITY MAIN TAKEAWAY(S)
Idea General
Comments
• Exterior Facilities – playgrounds, outdoor fitness equipment, fire
pits, event pavilion, grills with tables, pavilions, wooden train.
• Natural features- gardens, nature preserve, rain gardens.
• Park security- safety buttons, signage (including wayfinding signs),
more lighting.
• Community events and programming – food truck event space,
performance space, fitness for all ages, bulletin boards for
community posts, concerts.
• Pathways – outdoor walking loop, trails, and paths.
• Accessibility- pathway between facilities, restrooms, drinking
fountains, water stations, benches, and seating.
In-Person Open House &
Comments
Table 4: Community Engagement – Phase 2 (Fall 2022)
QUESTION/TOPIC MAIN TAKEAWAY
Booth at Farmer’s Market –
Scenario Planning
Attendees were asked to rank their preferred design concepts for
Shepherd Park, as well as comment on the provided scenarios.
Concept Plan A – 11 votes.
South baseball diamond removed, parking added in south, farmer’s
market added in south.
Concept Plan B – 4 votes
Senior housing added in east, farmer’s market added in east, walking
loops added.
Concept Plan C – 6 votes.
North baseball diamond removed, parking added in south, farmer’s
market in south, community plaza added.
Comments
Participants wanted the following new amenities: concert space, more
pavilions, a splash pad, exercise stations, a bike path, and a small dog
park.
Participants wanted the following improved amenities: basketball
courts, walking paths, minigolf, and more benches and grills.
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PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 18
QUESTION/TOPIC MAIN TAKEAWAY
Online Concept Survey Respondents were asked which design concept they liked best and
why, as well as what they would add to the park that has not yet been
suggested.
Concept A – Community center location (adjacent to nature),
consolidated parking in the southern area, performance space,
farmer’s market shed, pedestrian path, indoor and outdoor skating
rink.
Concept B – Senior housing, additional walking paths, farmer’s market
space, wellness center and entrepreneurial space, more pavilions,
centrally-located splash pad.
Concept C – Consolidated parking in the southern area, most similar to
current design, makes the best use of space, senior housing, additional
pavilion.
Suggestions: Disc golf, parallel parking, traffic calming measures,
electric vehicle charging stations, bike racks, water refilling stations,
additional drinking fountains, dog drinking fountain, food and
beverage carts, more tree diversity, more accessibility.
30 Day Public Review Period Ranking
According to public engagement, new walking trails and greenways
were listed as a top priority. Respondents were asked to choose which
type they preferred. Below are the rankings:
1. New walking trails in parks (22 votes)
2. A connected greenway (22 votes)
3. Indoor walking path (17 votes)
4. Other (7 votes)
Comments
Additional comments included: Improve existing parks, add new
walking trails, improve restrooms, add new community recreation
center, add more restrooms, create mini parks, add bike paths,
increase sustainability, add a dog park.
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PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 19
Table 5: Public Engagement Comments – Oak Park-managed Portion of Shepherd Park
QUESTION/TOPIC MAIN TAKEAWAY
Online Discussion Priorities for the non-OCP-managed portion of Shepherd Park
include:
Outdoor Recreation – Covered pavilion near library, better pool
maintenance, more flexibility at court areas (include pickleball,
basketball, tennis, and more), new splash pad, outdoor ice skating,
better miniature golf maintenance, and wooden train.
Indoor Rec – Recreation center, indoor walking loop, senior
programming, multi-use courts, fitness rooms, multipurpose rooms
for fitness classes and meetings, game room, indoor pool,
conference space, storage, kitchen, and snack bar.
Countywide Engagement
Oakland County Parks conducted the Community Needs Assessment in 2022 which provided baseline
insight to the park needs of county residents (ETC Institute 2022). Main takeaways from this
engagement as it pertains to Hawthorne Park planning are as follows:
• Future of Parks and Recreation: When asked for their priority actions for Oakland County Parks,
the highest number of respondents felt managing freshwater and stormwater resources to
protect water quality and reducing flooding was very important (73%). Other actions
respondents felt were very important were maintaining roads and park infrastructure (61%) and
reducing waste by recycling and composting (60%).
• Barriers to Recreation: The highest reported barriers to recreation in the county-wide survey
were lack of information, not liking the outdoors and not having time. The least reported
barriers at the county level were a lack of adequate transportation and feeling unwelcome.
• Important Park Features: The amenities/facilities that were most important to respondents are
displayed on the chart below, with the top four choices being Trails-hiking, Farmers markets,
Beaches and Natural areas/open space.
• Most visited Facility Type- Trails, Farmers markets, Natural areas and open space and beaches
were also the top four choices selected by respondents as their most visited facility type.
• Priorities for Facility Investment- Priority Investment Ratings were developed based on the
importance of an amenity and the number of residents with an unmet need for that amenity.
The same four items were ranked at the highest PIR: Beaches, Trails-hiking, Farmers markets,
Natural areas and open space.
• Priorities for Programming: Measured using the same formula as the facility PIR, the top priority
programs are Adult fitness & wellness programs, Farmers market programs, Community
festivals, Art/antique/craft shows, and Food truck rallies.
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PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 20
Environmental Condition
Phase I Environmental Site Assessment
The Phase I ESA was conducted by ASTI Environmental, with the final report dated May 24, 2023.
The report indicated that the property was wooded vacant land from at least 1937 until 1956 when the
current public park was developed and has remained recreation until present day. The report concluded
the following:
“This assessment has revealed no recognized environmental conditions (RECs), controlled recognized
environmental conditions (CRECs), or significant data gaps in connection with the Subject Property.”
(ASTI 5/24/2023)
Existing Conditions
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 21
Existing Conditions
Location
David H. Shepherd Park is in Oak Park south of Northfield Blvd and east of Church Street and north of
Oak Park Blvd. The Oak Park Recreation Master Plan indicates that Shepherd Park is 56.8 acres. The
Oakland County ArcGIS recreation layer indicates that Shepherd Park is 43.39 acres, comprising nine
parcels. Adding the parcel that contains the city offices brings the parcel acreage total to 55 acres. The
list of parcels and park/community features within each is seen in the table below and identified on the
aerial photo on the next page.
Addresses: Park owner address is 14000 Oak Park Blvd, Oak Park MI 48237-2082
Township and Range: Township 1 North, Range 11 East
Section: 30
Park Description
David H. Shepherd Park is the largest park in the City of Oak Park, featuring paved walking paths,
pavilions, grills with tables, playgrounds, basketball courts, a sledding hill, play tunnels, play tires, a
wooden train, and a wooden truck. The property is also the location of an indoor ice arena, outdoor
pool, putt putt golf course, and the Oak Park Community Center.
Table 6: Shepherd Park parcels
Map Parcel ID Acres Assets and features
1 25-30-251-001 2.37 Open space
2 25-30-251-002 6.32 west parking lot, Shelter 1 and Playground 1
3 25-30-251-003 3.29 open space, basketball courts
4 25-30-251-004 6.47 open space, Shelter 2, tennis courts
5 25-30-251-005 6.51 east parking lot, Playground 2, Shelter 3, Joe Forbes Field,
swimming pool
6 25-30-401-005 10.69 CP2 ball field, sledding hill, Community Center parking lot and
driveways, Community Center, putt putt golf course
7 25-30-276-028 1.67 open space
8 25-30-276-029 2.54 open space
9 25-30-276-030 3.62 indoor ice rink and driveways
Subtotal 43.48
10 25-30-426-001 11.09 Parking lot and drive, Oak Park city offices, public safety
department, and public library
Total 54.57
Existing Conditions
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 22
Figure I: Aerial photo (2023) showing parcels and park boundaries at David H. Shepherd Park in Oak Park
Grant History
Unless otherwise noted, all grant-funded facilities and improvements listed in the table below remain
open to the public for the purpose of outdoor recreation.
Grant
Number
Source Year Summary
BF89-283 Michigan Bond Fund 1989
Shepherd Park Infrastructure: Replace
ballfield lights at Merton Colburn Field,
replace fencing at Merton Colburn and
CP#2 ballfield, replace handicapped-capped
accessible asphalt path through nature
area.
$81,300.00
Rec Plan 2023 Update: Asphalt is in fair
condition. Fencing has some issues with it
becoming raised up and rusting. Lighting
structures are in good shape and used on a
regular basis, some individual lights were
replaced in 2022. (Oak Park 2023)
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Existing Conditions
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 23
Other Property Restrictions
Additional property restrictions have not been identified.
Natural Resources
For almost 2 million years, southeast Michigan and Oakland County were covered by glaciers that
retreated at the end of the last ice age approximately 10,000-15,000 years ago. Dominant landscape
features including hills, lakes, and rivers; and resulting natural communities consisting of plants and
animals are based on the soils and resulting ecosystems that formed since that glacial
retreat. Indigenous populations managed those ecosystems for thousands of years using techniques
such as prescribed fire. The introduction of European settlement in Oakland County in the 1800s
resulted in the conversion of natural ecosystems to agriculture and industry. Shepherd Park was no
exception and was managed for agricultural purposes as detailed in the Introduction.
Shepherd Park was likely a mixed hardwood swamp prior to development prior to European settlement
but shows very few remnants of its former composition except potentially the woodlot. The topography
is completely flat except for a small man-made hill in the southwest portion of the park. The park is
located within the Clinton River Watershed and contains no natural waterbodies but experiences
seasonal flooding in the wooded sections of the park. Stormwater assets on-site should be managed as
naturally as possible to support water absorption in an urban environment and prevent pressure on
existing systems.
The woodlot on the property is present in 1940’s aerials which indicates it was likely not farmed,
perhaps because of wet soil. Adjacent property was all agricultural before being developed in the
1950’s and 1960s. The history of the woodlot and age of the forest will be investigated. It is known that
several trees were planted as part of a documented United Nations (UN) tree project and will be
inventoried to determine if they are appropriate for a Michigan native forest. The forest will be
managed to promote gap-phase dynamics, improve the diversity of understory plants, provide a wildlife
corridor including migratory bird stopover, and high-quality recreational experiences.
Additionally, native plant species will be planted in both formal garden beds to provide examples of
natural landscaping in a developed setting.
Existing Conditions
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 24
Figure J: Excerpt from Oak Park Recreation Master Plan
Existing Conditions
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 25
Boundaries
Boundaries Aerial Photo (2023) Photo
Joe Forbes Field fence
295 linear feet of chain-link
fence on the east side of the
park is located within OCP area.
11,346 SF (0.26 acre) area of the
ball field is within OCP area.
Photo 6/5/2022
Buildings
A
C
B
D
E
F
Existing Conditions
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 26
Buildings Aerial Photo (2023) Photo
A. Shelter 1 and restrooms
Approximately 3,200 sq ft,
Shelter 1 is in the northwestern
portion of the park. It contains
17 picnic tables. The pavilion
building also contains two
bathrooms and a preparation
kitchen. Construction drawings
dated 10/28/1971 have been
provided by Oak Park and are
on file.
Photo 6/5/2022
C. Shelter 2
Approximately 2,200 sq ft,
Shelter 2 is in the northeastern
portion of the park. It contains
12 picnic tables.
Constructed prior to 1997
(aerial).
Photo 9/27/2023
D. Shelter 3
Approximately 340 sq ft,
Shelter 3 is in the northeastern
portion of the park. It contains
3 picnic tables.
Not visible prior to current year
(2023) aerial due to tree cover.
Photo 9/27/2023
E. Utility building
Approximately 10’ x 10’ utility
building near the baseball
diamond on the eastern side of
the park. The OCP boundary
runs through the building. The
exterior of the building is in
good condition.
Photo 9/27/2023
Existing Conditions
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 27
F. Past gazebo
An apparent gazebo appears in
the center of the wooded area
in aerial photographs from
1963 to 1980.
1980 aerial photo shown at
right.
Courts and Fields
Courts and Fields Aerial Photo (2023) Photo
Joe Forbes Field
11,346 SF (0.26 acre) area of the
ball field is within OCP area.
Constructed prior to 1963.
Photo 6/5/2022
Existing Conditions
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 28
Hardscapes
A B
E
G
C
D
F
H
Existing Conditions
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 29
Hardscapes Aerial Photo (2023) Photo
A. West parking lot
Asphalt parking lot with 64
parking spaces, 4 of which are
accessible spaces. All spaces
are approximately 8’ x
16’. Constructed prior to 1963
(aerial).
Photo 9/27/2023
Hardscapes Aerial Photo (2023) Photo
B. East parking lot
Asphalt parking lot with 30
parking spaces, 2 of which are
accessible spaces. All spaces
are approximately 8’ x 16’.
Constructed prior to 1963
(aerial). Reconstructed in 2015.
Photo 9/27/2023
C. On-street parking
Approximately 70
perpendicular parking spaces
are located along Northfield
Blvd at the north side of the
park.
D. Shelter 1 paved area
Approximately 5,000 SF asphalt-paved open space
Four sidewalk connector asphalt paths connect Northfield Blvd sidewalks pavilions, playgrounds, and
park trails. Each is 6-8 LF wide. All sidewalks were constructed prior to 1963 (aerial).
E. Sidewalk connector 1
325-LF pathway connecting with sidewalk connector 2
F. Sidewalk connector 2
320-LF pathway connecting with Shelter 1 and Playground 1
G. Sidewalk connector 3
190-LF pathway connecting with Shelter 2 and Playground 2
H. Sidewalk connector 4
307-LF pathway connecting with Shelter 3
Existing Conditions
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 30
Open Space
Open Space Aerial Photo (2020) Photo
Site furnishings
Affixed benches and grills, as
well as moveable picnic tables
are located throughout the
park. Many are not located on
ADA accessible routes.
Photo 6/5/2022
Playgrounds
A
B
C
D
E
Existing Conditions
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 31
Playgrounds
Playgrounds Aerial Photo (2020) Photo
A. Playground 1
Playground for ages 5-12.
Constructed prior to 2000.
Photo 6/5/2022
B. Playground 2
Playground for ages 2-5.
Branded as “Oceans of Fun.”
Installed in 2002.
Photo 6/5/2022
C. Play truck
18’ in length plywood play
truck and three large truck tires
constructed prior to 1980.
Not ADA-compliant. Accessed
by two stair ladders.
Currently located within OCP
area.
Photo 6/5/2022
D. Play tunnels
Two 8’ length concrete play
tunnels constructed prior to
1980.
Not ADA-compliant. Currently
located within OCP area.
Photo 6/5/2022
Existing Conditions
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 32
Playgrounds Aerial Photo (2020) Photo
E. Play train
75’ L plywood play train
consisting of 3 separate train
cars constructed prior to 1980.
Not ADA-compliant. Accessed
by two stair ladders.
Located outside of OCP area.
Photo 6/5/2022
Existing Conditions
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 33
Signs
Signs Aerial Photo (2020) Photo
Entrance sign
Park sign at corner of Church
Street and Northfield Blvd.
Photo 6/5/2022
Entrance sign
Park sign at entrance to west
parking lot, off Northfield Blvd.
Photo 9/7/2023
Shelter 1 rules sign
Sign on Shelter 1 with park
shelter rules and closing time.
Photo 9/27/2023
Native Wildflower Garden Sign
Located on the north perimeter
of the woods.
Existing Conditions
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 34
Trails
Trails and Boardwalks Aerial Photo (2020) Photo
A. Park perimeter trail
The asphalt loop is 12’ wide and
approximately 0.5 mile long.
Approximately 0.26 mile of the
trail is in the OCP area.
Trail layout in place prior to
1963 (aerial).
Photo 6/5/2022
B. Forest trail
An 800-feet long asphalt trail
runs diagonally through the
wooded areas of Shepherd
Park.
Trail layout in place prior to
1963 (aerial).
Photo 6/5/2022
A
B
Existing Conditions
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 35
Utilities and Infrastructure
Utilities and Infrastructure Aerial Photo (2023) Photo
Water fountain
A drinking fountain is in the
northwest portion of the park,
attached to Shelter 1.
Photo 9/27/2023
Joe Forbes Field light poles (2)
Located within OCP area.
Figure K: City Complex drainage (undated), cropped to show OCP area
Strategic Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 36
Strategic Plan
The strategic plan for Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park is designed to guide the park into the future and
identify what actions are needed to make progress and how we will know the efforts were successful. It will help
us to set priorities, focus energy and resources, and ensure we are working toward common goals. It also will
help us to evaluate results and adjust our direction in response to a changing environment.
Park Vision
The park vision is a statement that inspires and guides us; it is aspirational and declares our intent and direction
and states the long-term outcome of our work.
Oak Park Woods at David H. Shepherd Park is a popular destination for Oak Park and Oakland County
residents to be active and social and to relax and connect with nature. The park is safe and accessible
and welcomes everyone. It is resilient and helps create a more sustainable future for the people of Oak
Park and for the environment.
Park Goals
The park goals are the broader strategies that will lead us to the realization of our park vision.
1. Honor the rich history of David H. Shepherd Park and its value to Oak Park residents.
2. Collaborate with City officials, staff, organizations, and residents who have invested in and cared for the
park over the years.
3. Execute a transition to Oakland County Parks operation that is transparent, maintains open lines of
communication, and acknowledges that while OCP operates the northern 17 acres, the park is owned by
Oak Park.
4. Foster a welcoming environment for all park users through varied methods and processes, including
universal design [1], multi-lingual signage and promotion, clean, working restroom facilities, and regular
cleaning and maintenance.
5. Operate the park and invest in improvements collaboratively, sharing staff and resources in a manner
that is fiscally responsible for Oakland County Parks and enhances the fiscal sustainability of Oak Park.
6. Improve and build park features that focus on nature play, are resilient and adapted to the landscape,
and contribute to a more sustainable, green future through intentional stormwater management,
sustainable building and operating processes, and community education opportunities.
7. Connect residents to nature through restoration of natural assets and nature education programming.
8. Present residents with opportunities to gather and recreate with family and friends in the park by
providing and improving picnic shelters, picnic tables, benches, open greenspaces, programming, and
special events.
[1] Universal design results in a built environment that allows independent use and inclusive participation by people with
disabilities, without separating them from others. When building new facilities or renovating existing structures, we strive
to design universally accessible facilities and structures that are easily used by all.
Strategic Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 37
City of Oak Park Parks and Recreation Master Plan
The City of Oak Park Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 identified potential park upgrades for the
OCP-managed portion of Shepherd Park, including:
Increasing the amount of available parking.
In collaboration with Oakland County Parks and Recreation, create improved park facilities.
Upgrading existing picnic shelters and bathrooms, play areas, and path system.
Adding a new picnic pavilion on the north side of the park.
The Oak Park Recreation Master Plan also identified upgrades for the Oak Park-managed portion of Shepherd
Park, which included, creating a new indoor community recreation center; adding a new sports court area;
adding a new outdoor splash pad; adding senior housing facilities; and creating a new community plaza space.
The Recreation Master Plan notes that survey respondents were in favor of non-motorized pathways, nature
preservation, and mixed-use facilities. (Oak Park 2023)
Timeline
Improvements and development at Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park will be guided by community
engagement, site conditions and context, as well as available funding.
Key Dates and Milestones
August 8, 2023 – Executed date for Interlocal Partnership Agreement and beginning of Transition Period.
December 31, 2023 – per Interlocal Partnership Agreement, the deadline for OCP to submit Park Action
Plan to Oak Park City Representative.
June 30, 2024 – Date for end of Transition Period and beginning of operation of park as Oak Park Woods
at Shepherd Park, or the date Park Action Plan is approved by City Representative, whichever occurs
last.
December 31, 2024 – per American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) guidelines, the deadline for all ARPA-funded
contracts to be executed.
December 31, 2026 – per ARPA guidelines, the deadline for all ARPA-funded projects to be completed.
Strategic Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 38
Figure L: Excerpt from Oak Park Recreation Master Plan
Strategic Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 39
Park Objectives
The park objectives outline a variety of strategies and specific actions and projects that will implement the
overall vision and goals for the park. Many of the objectives are general in nature and will be developed in more
detail during park design and development. Objectives that are also identified as Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
projects are also indicated to the right of the individual objective and are further detailed in the CIP chapter.
I Park Operations and Management
Shared responsibility for operating and managing Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park,
including programs and events, is detailed in the Park Operations and Maintenance Plan
(POMP). POMP
II Natural Resources Management
A Natural Areas Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance existing natural
communities and promote biodiversity across the landscape.
1 Surveys for priority invasive species and rare or unique native plants
2 Treatment and removal of priority invasive species
3 Restoration of priority natural communities and habitats through native
seeding and winter shrub removals.
4 Installation of no-mow zones, turf conversion, and landscape conversions to
native plants
B Freshwater Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance wetland habitat and
associated aquatic organisms.
1 Stormwater infrastructure assessment and monitoring
C Forestry: Protect, restore, and enhance diverse forest systems and shade trees for
recreational users.
1 Develop forest management plan for long term maintenance of tree diversity
2 Monitor for forest pests and diseases and provide rapid responses to
detections
3 Tree maintenance and removals, tree planting and re-forestation
4 Development and implementation of debris management plan
D Wildlife: Protect, restore, and enhance rare and unique native wildlife species and
biodiversity.
1 Survey for threatened, endangered, and special concern species along with
priority native and non-native species.
2 Manage nuisance and non-native wildlife
3 Restoration of priority habitat for wildlife to increase habitat connectivity and
wildlife corridors.
III Facilities and Assets
A Accessibility and Universal Access
Perform accessibility audit of facilities, trails, and features to ensure compliance with
the ADA, prioritizing any non-compliant items to be brought up to standards.
Incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and
improvements to existing facilities are made.
B Boundaries
Inventory and assess all park fences and determine appropriate materials for
delineation and appropriate level of vegetation management. Evaluate entire park
Strategic Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 40
boundary and determine appropriate methods to secure park boundary, per OCP
Boundary Standards.
1 Joe Forbes Field
Ball field fence is partly within the OCP area and will be maintained and
managed by Oak Park, with no usage by OCP. Oak Park
2 Park perimeter boundary
The perimeter of the park will remain without fence or boundary markers
3 OCP/Oak Park area boundary
Oak Park will be managing the grounds of both areas and the transition
between the two areas is not expected to be delineated by fences or boundary
markers
C Buildings
Identify projects to improve, renovate, or expand existing building interior and/or
exterior, or to add a new building. A full Planning Review is a pre-requisite to
implementing major changes. This review contains the following: 1) detailed
description of existing conditions, 2) analysis of usage, cost recovery, and other
indicators to confirm need for project, 3) historical analysis if asset is over 50 years
old, 4) analysis of opportunities to advance OCP Core Values with the project, and 5)
short and long-term goals for improved building.
1 Shelter 1
Renovate existing pavilion and associated restroom and serving kitchen interior
and exterior with new roof, fixtures and finishes to improve functionality for
public use. Install automatic locks on restrooms for park opening and closing.
Consider security needs. Evaluate if replacement is a more feasible option.
Evaluate historic usage of shelter and if expansion of the building is warranted
and feasible.
CIP
OP001
2 Shelter 2
Evaluate condition of building. Consider renovation of pavilion interior and
exterior with new roof, fixtures and finishes to improve functionality for public
use. Evaluate if replacement is a more feasible option. Evaluate usage of
shelter and if expansion of the building is warranted and feasible.
CIP
OP002
3 Shelter 2 restrooms
New restroom building next to Shelter 2 is planned by Oak Park. Neutral
finishes are planned that will coordinate with capital improvements that are
designed and implemented as part of the Healthy Communities project. Oak Park
4 Shelter 3
Evaluate condition of building. Consider renovation of pavilion interior and
exterior with new roof, fixtures and finishes to improve functionality for public
use. Evaluate if replacement is a more feasible option. Evaluate usage of
shelter and if expansion of the building is warranted and feasible
CIP
OP003
5 Shelter 1 HVAC evaluation/potential installation
Consider if there is a need for a winterized and heated restroom and/or kitchen
to serve park visitors during winter months. Select sustainable options,
including high-efficiency water heaters and Energy Star-rated appliances
CIP
OP004
6 Shelter Roof Inspections/Replacements Program
Inspect all roofs annually for replacement need. Make repairs as needed and
replace when continued maintenance is no longer feasible.
CIP
OP005
Strategic Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 41
7 Utility Building
Utility building is located with one third of the footprint in OCP area and will be
maintained and managed by Oak Park, with no usage by OCP. Oak Park
D Courts and Fields - none
1 Joe Forbes Field is partly within OCP area and will be programmed, maintained,
and managed by Oak Park, with no usage by OCP. Oak Park
F Hardscapes
Identify and implement projects to replace pavement areas based on expected life
cycle, repair record, and ongoing staff inspections of various paving materials
including asphalt, concrete, and paver units. The standard pavement concept budget
prior to construction will include options for bioswales, stormwater management,
permeable pavement, and other considerations. Eliminate coal tar sealing.
1 East and West Parking Lots
Evaluate the condition of entry drives and parking lots and plan for
improvements as needed. In cooperation with Oak Park, consider the need for
additional parking in overall park design and strategize potential location for
additional parking, if needed.
CIP
OP0012
2 Park Sidewalks and Sidewalk Connectors
Monitor condition and schedule annual repairs as needed. Oak Park will alert
OCPRC if any sidewalk issues are identified through the Oak Park Sidewalk
Program (e.g., trip hazards). OCPRC is responsible for correcting hazardous
sidewalks via OCPRC or Oak Park concrete contractor.
MMP or
Oak Park
G Open Space
1 Maintain open space areas for unstructured play
2 Provide universally accessible site furnishings throughout park – e.g., benches,
picnic tables
H Playgrounds
Design and construct playgrounds and access routes that comply with the
requirements of the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) and the Consumer Products
Safety Commission at a minimum. Apply Universal Design principles wherever
possible to foster play between people with and without disabilities and
intergenerationally. Address the needs of the whole child with a variety of ground
level, elevated level, and sensory experiences. Consider linking playgrounds to other
spaces to play - in nature, in open space, or with water. Consider associated
amenities such as shade structures, benches, and drinking water, as well as
convenient parking and restroom access.
1 Nature Playground
Design and construct a nature-themed playground that is universally accessible
and creates a gateway to experiences that build curiosity about nature.
Integrate the design with the improved woodlot and link with OCP nature
education programming.
CIP
OP007
2 Play Pockets
Consider the need for additional smaller play elements and sensory features
dispersed throughout the park. If determined to be feasible, incorporate play
area design into a larger design that incorporates universal design; and
considers community need, site context, and natural resources impacts.
CIP
OP008
Strategic Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 42
3 Playground 1
Inspect playground annually for safety and condition. Repair as needed and
maintain accessible play surface and access routes. Replace components or
entire play structure when continued maintenance is no longer feasible. If the
entire structure is to be removed, evaluate replacement or removal in the
context of the overall park design and the needs of park visitors.
CIP
OP009
4 Playground 2
Inspect playground annually for safety and condition. Repair as needed and
maintain accessible play surface and access routes. Replace components or
entire play structure when continued maintenance is no longer feasible. If the
entire structure is to be removed, evaluate replacement or removal in the
context of the overall park design and the needs of park visitors.
CIP
OP010
5 Truck and concrete pipes within OCP area. Determine the future of these play
features in collaboration with Oak Park: 1) relocated to Oak Park area or 2)
remove completely.
6 Consider the installation of adult exercise equipment
I Signs
1 Design and install wayfinding and interpretive signage MMP
2 Enhance street entrances with OCP signage MMP
3 Identify transition between two park areas with minimal signage MMP
J Sustainability Improvements
Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets
including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing, or installing renewable
energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and
access, reducing water, herbicide, and disposable product use, improving stormwater
resilience, and reduction and management of waste.
1 Incorporate sustainable elements - consider stormwater capture and re-use,
net zero building practices and materials, alternative energy infrastructure, and
EV charging.
CIP
OP006
2 Strategize how to provide shelter and/or relief from extreme heat events
K Technology Improvements
Identify and implement projects to improve customer service, park and building
safety, staff efficiency, workplace conditions with technological innovation and
equipment. Actions may include: 1) security cameras and lighting, 2) enhanced wi-fi
connectivity for staff and public, 3) point-of-sale improvements, and 4) timed,
automatic locking systems.
CIP
OP011
L Trails
New trail development is supported by a comprehensive planning process that
maximizes the trail user experience within the context of long-term sustainability.
Trails are designed and constructed based on a parkwide trail plan is suited to site
conditions, minimizes impacts on natural areas, and meets the requirements of the
Americans with Disabilities Act and the Architectural Barriers Act Standards. To the
extent possible, consider connectivity within the regional trail network and local
pathways. Reference OCP Trail Standards.
1 Enhance and clarify trail system, including trail heads, trail distances, and
wayfinding signage MMP
Strategic Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 43
2 Trail System Improvements
Evaluate condition, accessibility, and overall design of existing paved trail
system. Evaluate the need for additional trails and/or modifications such as
reroutes or surface improvements. Consider accessibility, site context, and
natural resources impacts. All trails must comply with OCP Trail Standards.
Coordinate any design changes and improvements with Oak Park to ensure
that the connectivity with city trails and pathways is maintained or enhanced.
CIP
OP013
3 Create new unpaved trails that meet the ADA-compliant hiking standard that
provide a forest-immersion experience and connect with new nature-themed
playground.
CIP
OP014
M Utilities and Infrastructure
1 Need to clarify which utilities are available to each asset/facility
2 Lighting to Joe Forbes Field – two light poles are within OCP area and will be
maintained by Oak Park, with no usage by OCP POMP
IV Connectivity
A Neighborhood Connectivity
Maintain existing connections to adjacent neighborhoods via city sidewalks
B Connectivity within Shepherd Park
Maintain a seamless transition between OCP and Oak Park areas of Shepherd Park
with signage denoting the investment by OCP
C Public Transit
Evaluate access via SMART bus and other public transit
V Property Management
A Property Agreements and Restrictions
Coordinate all design and new uses with existing property restrictions
1 DNR grant agreements
B Property Acquisition – Acquisition of additional property is not anticipated
Capital Improvement Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 44
Capital Improvement Plan
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission (OCPRC) proposes the following Capital
Improvements within the next 5 years following the policies and procedures of OCPRC. Inclusion of the
project in this CIP is not a guarantee that the project will be implemented. Each project will be evaluated
based on the core values of OCP to ensure the project will meet the needs of the community and
residents and is feasible for long-term maintenance. Each project requires final approval by the OCPRC
before releasing funding for the project.
Building Updates and Additions
Identify projects to improve, renovate, or expand existing building interior and/or exterior, or to add a
new building. A full Planning Review is a pre-requisite to implementing major changes. This review
contains the following: 1) detailed description of existing conditions, 2) analysis of usage, cost recovery,
and other indicators to confirm need for project, 3) historical analysis if asset is over 50 years old, 4)
analysis of opportunities to advance OCP Core Values with the project, and 5) short and long-term goals
for improved building.
Project ID: OP001 Shelter 1 Update/Replacement
Scope: Renovate existing pavilion and associated restroom and serving kitchen interior and exterior with
new roof, fixtures and finishes to improve functionality for public use. Install automatic locks on
restrooms for park opening and closing. Consider security needs. Evaluate if replacement is a more
feasible option. Evaluate historic usage of shelter and if expansion of the building is warranted and
feasible.
Project ID: OP002 Shelter 2 Update/Replacement
Scope: Renovate existing pavilion interior and exterior with new roof, fixtures and finishes to improve
functionality for public use. Evaluate if replacement is a more feasible option. Evaluate usage of shelter
and if expansion of the building is warranted and feasible.
Project ID: OP003 Shelter 3 Update/Replacement
Scope: Renovate existing pavilion interior and exterior with new roof, fixtures and finishes to improve
functionality for public use. Evaluate if replacement is a more feasible option. Evaluate usage of shelter
and if expansion of the building is warranted and feasible.
Building Equipment and HVAC Replacements
Identify and implement projects to replace building equipment and HVAC systems based on expected
life cycle, repair record, and ongoing staff inspections of more than 700 building equipment systems in
the park system. Review all HVAC options, including all electric (net zero), powering through solar
panels, and heat pump options. Review high-level cost estimates prior to construction. Select high
efficiency water heaters and Energy Star-rated appliances.
Project ID: OP004 Shelter 1 HVAC Evaluation/Potential Installation
Scope: Consider if there is a need for a winterized and heated restroom and/or kitchen to serve park
visitors during winter months. Select sustainable options, including high-efficiency water heaters and
Energy Star-rated appliances.
Capital Improvement Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 45
Building Roof Replacements
Identify and implement projects to replace building roofs based on expected life cycle, repair record,
and ongoing staff inspections of more than 230 building roofs in the park system. For each roofing
project, staff will prepare a standard conceptual budget that includes options for green roofs and metal
roofs and minimizes asphalt shingle/petroleum-based roofing options. Initial budget estimates for most
roofs will be based on metal roof unit costs.
Project ID: OP005 All Shelters and Restrooms Replacement Program
Scope: Inspect all roofs annually for replacement need. Make repairs as needed and replace when
continued maintenance is no longer feasible.
Environmental Sustainability Programs
Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including
reduction in single-use plastics, electrification of vehicles and equipment, and stormwater management.
Project ID: OP006 Environmental Sustainability Evaluation/Potential Installations
Scope: Evaluate the feasibility for installing environmental sustainability improvements at the park and
install infrastructure and equipment as feasible and appropriate.
Playground Construction and Replacement
Design and construct playgrounds and access routes that comply with the requirements of the
Americans with Disability Act (ADA) and the Consumer Products Safety Commission at a
minimum. Apply Universal Design principles wherever possible to foster play between people with and
without disabilities and intergenerationally. Address the needs of the whole child with a variety of
ground level, elevated level, and sensory experiences. Consider linking playgrounds to other spaces to
play - in nature, in open space, or with water. Consider associated amenities such as shade structures,
benches, and drinking water, as well as convenient parking and restroom access.
Project ID: OP007 Nature Playground Design/Construction
Scope: Design and construct a nature-themed playground that is universally accessible and creates a
gateway to experiences that build curiosity about nature. Integrate the design with the improved
woodlot and link with OCP nature education programming.
Project ID: OP008 Play Pockets Design/Installation
Scope: Consider the need for additional smaller play elements and sensory features dispersed throughout
the park. If determined to be feasible, incorporate play area design into a larger design that incorporates
universal design; and considers community need, site context, and natural resources impacts.
Project ID: OP009 Playground 1 Improvement/Potential Replacement or Removal
Scope: Inspect playground annually for safety and condition. Repair as needed and maintain accessible
play surface and access routes. Replace components or entire play structure when continued
maintenance is no longer feasible. If the entire structure is to be removed, evaluate replacement or
removal in the context of the overall park design and the needs of park visitors.
Project ID: OP010 Playground 2 Improvement/Potential Replacement or Removal
Scope: Inspect playground annually for safety and condition. Repair as needed and maintain accessible
play surface and access routes. Replace components or entire play structure when continued
maintenance is no longer feasible. If the entire structure is to be removed, evaluate replacement or
removal in the context of the overall park design and the needs of park visitors.
Capital Improvement Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 46
Road and Parking Lot Replacements
Identify and implement projects to replace pavement areas based on expected life cycle, repair record,
and ongoing staff inspections of the over one million square yards of various paving materials including
asphalt, concrete, and paver units. The standard pavement concept budget prior to construction will
include options for bioswales, stormwater management, permeable pavement, and other
considerations. Eliminate coal tar sealing.
Project ID: OP0011 Parking Lots and Entry Drives Evaluation/Potential Improvements
Scope: Evaluate the condition of entry drives and parking lots and plan for improvements as needed. In
cooperation with City, consider the need for additional parking in overall park design and strategize
potential location for additional parking, if needed.
Technology Improvements
Identify and implement projects to improve customer service, park and building safety, staff efficiency,
workplace conditions with technological innovation and equipment. Actions may include: 1) security
cameras and lighting, 2) enhanced wi-fi connectivity for staff and public, 3) point-of-sale improvements,
and 4) timed, automatic locking systems.
Project ID: OP0012 Information Technology Evaluation/Potential Installations
Scope: Evaluate the need for technological improvements at the park and install infrastructure and
equipment as feasible and appropriate.
Trails Construction and Improvements
New trail development is supported by a comprehensive planning process that maximizes the trail user
experience within the context of long-term sustainability. Trails are designed and constructed based on
a parkwide trail plan is suited to site conditions, minimizes impacts on natural areas, and meets the
requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Architectural Barriers Act Standards. To the
extent possible, consider connectivity within the regional trail network and local pathways. Reference
OCP Trail Standards.
Project ID: OP0013 Trail System Evaluation/Improvement
Scope: Evaluate condition, accessibility, and overall design of existing paved trail system. Evaluate the
need for additional trails and/or modifications such as reroutes or surface improvements. Consider
accessibility, site context, and natural resources impacts. All trails must comply with OCP Trail Standards.
Coordinate any design changes and improvements with Oak Park to ensure that the connectivity with
city trails and pathways is maintained or enhanced.
Project ID: OP0014 Forest Trails Design/Construction
Scope: Create new unpaved trails that meet the ADA-compliant hiking standard that provide a forest-
immersion experience and connect with new nature-themed playground.
Letter of Intent
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 47
Letter of Intent
Letter of Intent
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 48
Letter of Intent
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 49
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 50
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 51
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 52
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 53
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 54
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 55
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 56
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 57
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 58
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 59
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 60
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 61
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 62
Interlocal Partnership Agreement
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 63
Boundary Survey
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 64
Boundary Survey
Boundary Survey
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 65
Boundary Survey
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 66
Oak Park Approvals
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 67
Oak Park Approvals
INSERT documentation.
References
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 68
References
ASTI. 5/24/2023. Shepherd Park Phase I Environmental Site Assessment. Brighton MI: ASTI
Environmental.
City of Oak Park and County of Oakland. 8/8/2023. Interlocal Partnership Agreement. Waterford MI:
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission.
City of Oak Park and County of Oakland. 9/7/2022. Letter of Intent. Waterford MI: Oakland County Parks
and Recreation Commission.
ETC Institute. 2022. Oakland County Parks Needs Assessment Findings Report. Waterford MI: Oakland
County Parks and Recreation Commission.
Oak Park. 2023. 2023 Elevate Oak Park Parks & Recreation Master Plan & Asset Management Study. Oak
Park MI: City of Oak Park.
Oak Park. 11/9/2020. CIty of Oak Park Master Plan. Oak Park MI: City of Oak Park City Council.
OCP. 1/26/2023. Oakland County Parks 5-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027. Waterford
MI: Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission.
Appendix A: Park Operations and Management Plan
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Appendix A: Park Operations and Management Plan
Appendix A: Park Operations and Management Plan
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Appendix A: Park Operations and Management Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 71
Appendix A: Park Operations and Management Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 72
Appendix A: Park Operations and Management Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 73
Appendix A: Park Operations and Management Plan
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 74
Appendix B: Public Engagement Report
PARK ACTION PLAN 2024-2028: Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park Page 75
Appendix B: Public Engagement Report
ATTACH final PE Report
Oakland Couny Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 1
Department: Park Operations
From: Thomas Hughes, Chief, Park Operations and Maintenance – North District
Subject: Oakland County Fair Association Agreement
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
On January 1, 2017, Oakland County Parks and Recreation (OCPR) and the Oakland County
Fair Association (OCFA) entered into a 5-year lease and cooperative agreement. This was a
continuation of agreements that have been in place since the Oakland County Fair moved to
Springfield Oaks in 1971. The agreement allows the OCFA to continue to use Springfield Oaks
Park for 4 weeks in the summer to host the Oakland County Fair. The agreement also allows for
the lease of Building E by the OCFA to be used as their Administrative Office Building.
The current agreement was automatically renewed for another 5 years on January 1, 2022. Over
this time, there have been amendments to the agreement which allowed for improvements and
investments into Springfield Oaks Park. In 2023, the Oakland County Fair Association applied for
and received a grant to improve asphalt paths and pave the entrance drive to the Ellis Barn. A
commitment to a long-term agreement was required to receive the grant. To satisfy the
requirement, a 10-year agreement between OCPR and the OCFA will replace the current
agreement. The new agreement will end on December 31, 2034. Changes and updates were
made to the current agreement to create a new one. Changes made include:
•The Oakland County Fair Association will contract directly with the Oakland County
Sheriff’s Department for any patrol services needed instead of using OCPR’s OCSD
contract.
•A set rate for rental for the Oakland County Fair Association to use the Springfield Oaks
Activity Center for fundraising events that support the Oakland County Fair.
•Increasing the time allowed for grounds clean up following the end of the fair from 5 days
to 7 days with a per day clean up fee per day when the 7 days are exceeded.
•Identifying storage areas available to use that didn’t exist when the current agreement was
drafted.
•Creation of a $20,000 Capital Improvement and Maintenance Fee to be used for park
improvements, which will increase 2% annually beginning January 1, 2025. This is a fee
in addition to the Parking Fee and Storage Fee that is in the current agreement.
ATTACHMENTS
1.Agreement between Oakland County Parks and the Oakland County Fair Association
RETURN TO AGENDA
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommend to approve the 10-year agreement between the Oakland County Parks and
Recreation and the Oakland County Fair Association.
MOTION
Move to approve the 10-year agreement between the Oakland County Parks and Recreation and
the Oakland County Fair Association.
Page 1 of 13
Final Version (12-13-23)
AGREEMENT BETWEEN OAKLAND COUNTY AND
OAKLAND COUNTY 4-H FAIR ASSOCIATION
This Agreement is entered into between the Oakland County 4-H Fair Association
(“Association”), 12451 Andersonville Road, Davisburg, Michigan 48350 and the County of
Oakland (“County), by and through its statutory agent the Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission (“OCPRC”), 2800 Watkins Lake Road, Waterford, Michigan 48328. This
Agreement includes the following as further described below: (1) Lease of the Springfield Oaks
Administrative Building/Building E; (2) Cooperative Fair Agreement; (3) License for indoor
vehicle/boat storage; and (4) License for use of Springfield Oaks Activity Center Kitchen
(hereinafter collectively referred to as “Agreement”). The Parties agree to the following terms
and conditions.
1. Introduction
1.1. Since 1971 the Association has annually held the Oakland County 4-H Fair, becoming
the Oakland County Fair in 2007, (“Fair”) at Springfield Oaks County Park.
1.2. OCPRC and the Association have identified recreational and community benefits that
are associated with providing a quality fair within Oakland County. The Fair supports
the agriculture industry, rural recreation, economic development, environmental
stewardship, education, and the County’s rich agricultural heritage.
1.3. Since 2007 the Association has used the Administrative Building/Building E for office
and administrative use.
1.4. The Parties desire to extend the agreement for the Fair and lease for the Administrative
Building/Building E at Springfield Oaks along with other uses.
2. Term and Termination
2.1. Term. This Agreement shall commence on January 1, 2024 and shall end December
31, 2034 (“Term”).
2.2. Termination. Either party may terminate and/or cancel this Agreement or any part
thereof at any time upon three hundred and sixty-five days (365) days written notice to
the other Party, for any reason, including convenience, without incurring obligation or
penalty of any kind. The effective date of termination and/or cancellation shall be
clearly stated in the written notice.
3. Exhibits. This Agreement incorporates the following Exhibits:
3.1. Exhibit A: Description and Depiction of Building E/Administrative Building, 12451
Andersonville Road, Davisburg, Michigan.
3.2. Exhibit B: Custodial Guidelines
3.3. Exhibit C: Building and Grounds Used for Fair
3.4. Exhibit D: Winter Storage Schedule
3.5. Exhibit E: Insurance Specifications
4. Lease of Springfield Oaks Administrative Building.
4.1. Leased Premises. OCPRC leases to the Association a building known as Building
E/Administrative Building, located at 12451 Andersonville Road, Davisburg, Michigan
48350 ("Premises"), which is further described and depicted in Exhibit A.
4.2. Hold Over. In the event the Association holds over after the expiration of this
Agreement without a written agreement, the hold over shall be construed to be a
Page 2 of 13
Final Version (12-13-23)
tenancy from month-to-month for the Premises on the same terms and conditions
contained in this Agreement, for a period not to exceed ninety (90) calendar days.
4.3. Rent. The Association shall not pay OCPRC rent for the Premises. In exchange for
not paying rent, the Association shall pay the utilities, during the entire Term of this
Agreement, for the following buildings and grounds located at 12451 Andersonville
Road, Davisburg, Michigan, 48350: the Administrative Building/Building E, the Ellis
Barn, the Rabbit Barn, the Miracle of Birth, the Septic System, the Campground, the
Fairground Pit, and the parking lights in the field. Utilities shall include electricity and
gas (natural and propane). Bills for all utilities and services shall be placed in the
Association’s name.
4.4. Security Deposit. No security deposit is required of the Association for the Premises.
4.5. Utilities and Services.
4.5.1. Utilities. Except as otherwise provided herein, the Association shall be solely
responsible for and promptly pay all utilities for the Premises and other
locations, as set forth in Section 4.3.
4.5.2. Association Provided Services/Systems. The Association shall provide and
pay for the following for the Premises: (1) the Association’s telephone system;
(2) the Association’s computer system (including access to the internet); (3) any
other system or service the Association deems necessary for it business on the
Premises; (4) the Association shall maintain the flower beds surrounding the
Premises, in a condition similar to flower beds in other portions of the Park; and
(5) the Association shall plant flower pots to place around the exterior of the
Premises.
4.5.3. Custodial Services. The Association, at its sole cost, shall clean the entire
interior of Building E/Administrative Building, including the restrooms and
showers, except that the Association will not be required to clean the restrooms
and showers when those areas are used by OCPRC or third parties who received
permission to use those areas through OCPRC. When cleaning the Premises,
the Association shall comply with the custodial guidelines set forth in Exhibit B.
4.5.4. OCPRC Provided Services. OCPRC shall provide and pay for the following
services for the Premises: (1) trash removal, (2) snow and ice removal from
sidewalks, steps and parking areas, (3) parking lot and structural building
maintenance, and (4) lawn care services.
4.6. Use and Occupancy.
4.6.1. Use by Association. The Premises shall be used for office space and meetings
for the Association.
4.6.2. Use by Third-Parties. The Association may permit third parties to use the
Community Room in Building E/Administrative Building for events pursuant to
a written contract between the Association and the third party. The Association
will provide OCPRC with a fee schedule, a copy of the use schedule on a
monthly basis, and a copy of all contracts for use of the Community Room.
Such contracts shall require that persons/entities using the Premises indemnify
the Association and County and name the Association and County as additional
insured on all insurance policies. Upon request, the Association shall provide
OCPRC with the executed contracts.
Page 3 of 13
Final Version (12-13-23)
4.6.3. Set-Up and Clean-Up. The Association will be responsible for all set-up and
clean-up of all the Association’s scheduled events and set-up and clean-up for
other events held at the Premises that were scheduled through the Association.
4.6.4. Cleanliness of Premises. The Association shall keep the Premises and the area
immediately surrounding Building E/Administrative Building clean, free of
trash, and in good order, wear and tear from reasonable use and damage from
the elements excepted.
4.7. Maintenance and Repairs. OCPRC shall maintain, repair, and keep the Premises in
good condition, including, but not limited to, the roof, ceilings, walls, floors,
foundations, electrical and plumbing systems, sidewalks, parking areas, exterior glass,
heating and cooling systems, septic system, and water system (including wells and
water tower).
4.8. Equipment, Furniture, and Supplies.
4.8.1. Office Equipment, Furniture, and Supplies. The Association shall provide, at
its expense, furniture, office supplies, and equipment it deems necessary for its
operations at the Premises. The Association, at its expense, shall be solely
responsible for the maintenance and repair of all furniture and equipment used
on the Premises.
4.8.2. Restroom/Shower Supplies. The Association shall provide, at its expense, all
supplies for the restrooms and showers, such as toilet paper, paper towel, soaps,
etc.; provided however, that when OCPRC uses the Premises, for whatever
reason, OCPRC, at its expense, shall replace/replenish the restroom/shower
supplies to ensure the supplies are full at the completion of OCPRC use of the
Premises.
4.9. Compliance with Laws. OCPRC shall, at its own expense, promptly comply with all
applicable federal, state and municipal laws and regulations affecting the Premises,
including any barrier-free requirements.
4.10. Security. OCPRC shall provide and pay for lighting for the exterior of the Premises
including common areas and parking areas directly adjacent to the Premises, in a
manner deemed adequate by OCPRC. OCPRC shall provide and pay for keys for the
Premises.
4.11. Access. OCPRC shall have twenty-four (24) hour access to the Premises, without
notice, for the purpose of inspecting, repairing, and maintaining the Premises.
4.12. Parking. OCPRC shall provide the Association with twelve (12) assigned parking
spaces for the Association’s exclusive use near the Premises.
4.13. Quiet Enjoyment. Upon performance of its obligations under this Agreement and
subject to the terms of this Agreement, the Association shall peacefully and quietly
hold and enjoy the Premises for the Term of this Agreement, without hindrance or
interruption by OCPRC or its agents or employees.
4.14. Destruction of Premises.
4.14.1. In the event, the Premises are partially damaged or destroyed by fire or other
casualty, the damage to the Premises shall be promptly repaired or rebuilt by
OCPRC. In the event the Premises cannot be repaired or rebuilt within one
hundred eighty (180) days after such damage or destruction, the Association
shall have the right to terminate this Agreement and vacate the Premises within
ninety (90) days after the occurrence of such damage or destruction. While the
Page 4 of 13
Final Version (12-13-23)
Premises are being repaired, the utilities owed by the Association, pursuant to
Section 4.3, shall be reduced in proportion to the fraction of the Premises
rendered unusable (in the discretion of the Association). If more than thirty-five
percent (35%) of the Premises are damaged or destroyed by a casualty, the
Association may elect to remain on the Premises or to vacate the Premises.
4.14.2. Notwithstanding any other provisions, in the event that more than thirty-five
(35%) percent of the Premises are damaged or destroyed by fire or other
casualty, OCPRC may elect to either repair or rebuild the Premises or to
terminate this Agreement by giving written notice to the Association within
ninety (90) days after the occurrence of such damage or destruction. The
Association will have ninety (90) days from the date of the notice to vacate the
Premises. If OCPRC elects to rebuild or repair the Premises, then the utilities
owed by the Association, pursuant to Section 4.3, shall be reduced in proportion
to the fraction of the Premises rendered unusable (in the discretion of the
Association) until the Premises are repaired or rebuilt. In no event shall
OCPRC be required to repair or replace any property of the Association.
4.15. Eminent Domain. If the whole Premises are taken by any public authority under the
power of eminent domain, then this Agreement shall be terminated on the day the
public authority takes possession of the whole Premises. If less than the whole, but
more than thirty-five percent (35%) of the Premises are taken by any public authority
under the power of eminent domain, then either Party may terminate this Agreement
upon thirty (30) days written notice to the other Party. In the event neither Party elects
to terminate this Lease, the Lease shall terminate on the date the public authority takes
possession of the Premises. Neither Party shall have any future liability or obligation
under the Lease if it is terminated under this Section
4.16. Condition Upon Surrender. Upon expiration or termination of this Agreement, the
Association shall return all keys to OCPRC, surrender the Premises in the same
condition as it was on the date this Agreement commenced (reasonable wear and tear
excepted), and shall remove its personal property. If the Association does not remove
its personal property within thirty (30) calendar days of the termination/expiration of
this Agreement, such property shall become the property of OCPRC and OCPRC may
remove, dispose, and/or use such property, in its sole discretion.
5. Cooperative Fair Agreement
5.1. Fair Management.
5.1.1. Responsibility for Fair. The Association is solely responsible for the
development, operation, and management of the annual Fair, including all costs
associated therewith, except as otherwise expressly provided herein.
5.1.2. Designated Representative of Association. The Association officers are the
authorized representatives of the Association and all communications, requests,
and development of policy regarding the Fair will go through the Association
Board. The order of authority of the Association Officers is as follows:
President, Vice President, Recording Secretary, Treasurer, and Corresponding
Secretary. The Association General Manager is the designated representative
for operation of the Fair.
Page 5 of 13
Final Version (12-13-23)
5.1.3. Designated Representative of OCPRC. The Chief of Park Operations and
Maintenance is OCPRC’s designated representative regarding services or
questions associated with the Fair.
5.1.4. Fair Contracts. The Association shall enter into contracts with persons/entities
that will provide or perform arena events, concessions, carnivals, and other
events or services during the Fair. The Association shall provide the template
contract that it will use with the above-referenced persons/entities to the
OCPRC Director for review and approval by April 1. Such contracts shall
require that all above-referenced persons/entities indemnify the Association and
County and name the Association and County as additional insured on all
insurance policies. Upon request, the Association shall provide OCPRC with
the executed contracts with the above-referenced persons/entities.
5.1.5. Fair Electrical Needs. The Association is responsible for defining the
electrical needs of commercial vendors in all approved contracts and informing
the Park Supervisor of these needs by June 1.
5.1.6. Fair Schedule of Events and Fair Layout. The Fair schedule of events and
the Fair event Layout shall be submitted to the OCPRC Director one month
prior to the start of the Fair. The schedule of events shall include the following:
(1) opening and closing times for the Activity Center; (2) carnival hours; (3)
dates and starting and ending times for all events, including special events; and
(4) any other information which OCPR may request.
5.1.7. Review of Fairgrounds. The Park Supervisor and the Chief of Park Operations
and Maintenance will meet with the Association General Manager and
designated Association members approximately one (1) month prior to the start
of the Fair to conduct a review of the Fair grounds.
5.1.8. Fair Walk-Through. On the first Tuesday of the Fair each year, OCPRC staff
and the Association General Manager and designated Association members will
complete a walk-through of the Fair, review any issues concerning the Fair, and
develop a list of ideas to assist the Fair in future years.
5.1.9. Fair Review. The Parties shall meet by October 1st each year to discuss and
review the most recent Fair and ideas for the next Fair.
5.1.10. Fair Surveys. OCPRC will conduct surveys of persons coming to the Fair. The
results of the surveys will be reviewed by both Parties no later than October 1.
5.2. Facility Use.
5.2.1. Facilities to Be Used. OCPRC provides the Association with the right to use
the building and grounds of the Springfield Oaks County Park ("Park") as
described and depicted in Exhibit C ("Facilities") for the Fair, which includes,
but is not limited to preparation, operation, dismantling and clean-up of the Fair.
Exhibit C can be amended, at any time, to address the need of the Parties to use
different facilities. OCPRC Director has the authority to approve changes to
Exhibit C.
5.2.2. Period of Use. The right to use the Facilities shall commence seven (7)
calendar days prior to the start of the Fair, The right to use the Facilities shall
end seven (7) calendar days after the end of the Fair.
Page 6 of 13
Final Version (12-13-23)
5.2.3. Fair Dates. By October 1 each year, the Association shall submit to the
OCPRC Director the dates for the Fair and the Facilities that will be used for the
next year’s Fair.
5.3. Responsibilities of Association and OCPRC.
5.3.1. Daily Maintenance Functions. Except as otherwise expressly provided in this
Agreement, OCPRC shall be responsible to perform daily maintenance and
repair functions for the Park and Facilities during the Fair; such functions shall
include, but not be limited to, building/facility upkeep, pre-agreed set-up and
tear down of equipment, electrical systems checks and septic tank maintenance.
5.3.2. Emergency Repairs/Emergency. During the Fair, the Park Supervisor or
his/her designee will be on call 24 hours a day for any emergency repairs.
OCPRC will provide a list of emergency contacts if the Park Supervisor cannot
be contacted.
5.3.3. Manure Removal. The Association shall be responsible for the daily removal
of manure from the Park and Facilities to areas designated by the Park
Supervisor.
5.3.4. Association Equipment. The Association shall be responsible for the repair
and upkeep of all the Association-owned equipment and rented equipment.
5.3.5. Cleanliness of Park during the Fair. The Association shall clean-up all
litter/trash in the carnival area, camping area, arena area, animal tents, and
parking area, at least daily, during the Fair.
5.3.6. Clean-Up after the Fair. The Association shall complete clean-up of all
Facilities and the Park, including the campground, used for the Fair within
seven (7) calendar days of the end of the Fair. The Association shall pay a five
hundred dollars ($500.00) fee per day when clean-up exceeds the period of use
set forth in Section 5.2.
5.3.7. Items Provided by Association. The Association shall provide and pay for the
following during the Fair: (1) portable toilets, (2) tent rental, (3) equipment
rental, (4) temporary electrical services for set up, and (5) all other equipment or
services needed for the Fair, unless specifically provided by OCPRC herein.
5.4. Fair Equipment & Storage.
5.4.1. Equipment Identification. Each Party shall clearly mark its equipment, in
order to permit easy identification of equipment ownership.
5.4.2. Equipment Storage. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement,
during the Term of this Agreement, OCPRC shall provide the Rabbit Barn, the
stall areas in the Livestock Barn, the Horse Area Storage Shed, and mutually
designated portions of the Horse Barn year-round, to store Association
equipment and supplies to operate Fair, at no cost to the Association.
5.5. Camping.
5.5.1. Campground Licenses/Permits. OCPRC shall be responsible to obtain and
pay for the state campground license, any County required licenses/permits, and
the rally permit for the campground each year by January 1, provided that the
Association shall reimburse OCPRC for the cost of the rally permit.
5.5.2. Campground Areas. The Association shall be responsible for designating
camping areas, setting up the camp sites, registering campers, and providing
portable toilet facilities for the campground.
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Final Version (12-13-23)
5.5.3. Compliance with Camping Laws. The Association shall comply with and
shall require all campers to comply with OCPRC Rules and Regulations and all
applicable State laws and regulations regarding camping.
5.6. Parking.
5.6.1. Parking Attendants. The Association shall provide volunteers to set up all
parking areas and provide parking attendants during the Fair.
5.6.2. Collection of Parking Fees. The Association shall be responsible for setting
the amount of and collecting parking fees and issuing parking passes.
5.6.3. Accounting of Parking Fees. The Association shall be responsible for
accounting and depositing parking fees.
5.6.4. Receipt of Parking Fees. Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, the
Association shall keep all monies generated from parking fees.
5.7. Safety and Security.
5.7.1. Security Services. The Association shall provide and pay for all security
services, including but not limited to, public safety services and law
enforcement services for the Facilities and all Fair parking areas during the Fair.
The Association shall contract directly with the entities to provide the services
set forth in this Section, including but not limited to, the Oakland County
Sheriff’s Office.
5.7.2. Emergency/First Aid Services. The Association shall be responsible for
providing and obtaining First Aid/EMS services during the Fair and for each
arena event, including having an ambulance on site for each arena event. The
Association shall provide a schedule of First Aid/EMS personnel to the Chief of
Park Operations and Maintenance by June 1. The Association shall be
responsible for all costs incurred for this service.
5.7.3. Trusty Crews. If trusty crews are available, OCPRC will work with the
Association for scheduling trusty crews by June 1.
5.8. Fair Marketing and Promotions.
5.8.1. OCPRC Marketing Staff. OCPRC will provide marketing staff to work with
designated Association persons to market and promote the Fair.
5.8.2. Marketing Agreement. The Association and OCPRC Director or his/her
designee shall create a Marketing and Promotions Agreement for each Fair by
March 1 each year.
5.8.3. Oakland County Parks Days. During the Fair each year, there shall be two
days designated as "Oakland County Parks Days". The Marketing and
Promotions Agreement shall include details regarding the “Oakland County
Park Days” at the Fair.
5.9. Emergency Action Plan. The Association shall create an Emergency Action Plan for
the Fair and it shall be reviewed annually by the Parties by June 1 each year. The
Springfield Oaks Emergency Action Plan will be reviewed annually by the Oakland
County Emergency Response and Preparedness by June 1. If the Emergency Action
Plan for the Fair is activated or incident occurs during the Fair which may implicate the
Emergency Action Plan for the Fair, then the Association shall immediately contact
OCPRC designated representative sent forth in Section 5.1.3.
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5.10. Financial Responsibilities. Except as otherwise specifically provided by in this
Agreement, the Association shall be responsible for all costs and expenses incurred in
the operation, set up and clean-up of the Fair.
6. License for Indoor Vehicle/Boat Storage.
6.1. Right for Indoor Storage. The Association may use the following barns for indoor
storage of vehicles and boats: Rabbit Barn, Poultry Barn, Livestock Barn, Goat Barn,
Horse Barn, Miracle of Birth Barn (herein collectively “Barns”), and Pavilion. Use of
the above-listed facilities, for indoor storage of vehicles and boats, shall commence and
end according to the schedule set forth in Exhibit D.
6.2. Safety Precautions. The Association shall ensure that all non-street vehicles and boats
are drained of all gas prior to storage in the Barns. The Association shall also ensure
that all propane tanks are removed from the vehicles and boats prior to storage in the
Barns.
6.3. Required Policies and Procedures. The Association shall implement any policies or
procedures required by the County’s insurance carrier regarding the storage of the
vehicles and boats in the Barns.
6.4. Written Agreements. The Association shall have a written agreement with each
vehicle/boat owner for the storage. The written agreement to be used with the owners
of the vehicles/boats shall be annually renewed and approved by Oakland County Risk
Management and Oakland County Corporation Counsel.
6.5. Insurance Certificates. Prior to storage, the Association shall obtain insurance
certificates for each vehicle and/or boat stored in the Barns. The insurance certificates
shall meet all requirements set forth in the agreement between the Association and
owners of the vehicles/boats.
6.6. Property Damage/Loss. The Parties acknowledge and agree that the County shall not
be liable or responsible for any property loss or damage resulting from fire, theft, or
other means to vehicles and boats stored in or around the Barns.
7. License for Springfield Oaks Activity Center Kitchen and Use of Springfield Oaks
Activity Center.
7.1. Use by Association. The Association shall have exclusive use of the Springfield Oaks
Activity Center Kitchen (“Kitchen”), except that OCPRC or the County may request to
use the kitchen if the OCPRC/County use does not conflict with the Association use.
7.2. Licensing. Pursuant to law, the Association, at its cost, shall obtain and maintain the
license for operating the Kitchen.
7.3. Kitchen Equipment/Use Repairs. Except for the sinks and ansul system, which are
fixtures to the Kitchen, all equipment in the Kitchen, at the time of execution of this
Agreement, including but not limited to the freezers, ovens, refrigerators, deep fryers,
plates, cups, glasses, coffee makers, silverware, and baking utensils, shall be deemed the
property of the Association. The County shall maintain and repair the sinks and ansul
system and shall provide an annual inspection of the Kitchen; provided that the
Association shall reimburse OCPRC for the costs associated with the inspection and the
maintenance and repair of such equipment. OCPRC shall invoice the Association for
such costs and the Association shall pay such invoice within thirty (30) days of receipt.
The Association shall be responsible for the maintenance, repair, and replacement of all
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equipment in the Kitchen, except the sinks and ansul system. The Association shall keep
the equipment in the Kitchen in a good condition, so as not to cause damage to Kitchen,
Premises, Facilities, Barns, and Park.
7.4. Use of Springfield Oaks Activity Center. The Association may use the Springfield
Oaks Activity Center at a rate of five hundred dollars ($500.00) per event, increasing ten
dollars ($10.00) per year for the duration of this Agreement, commencing with the
Spring and Fall Crops and Fair Fiesta in 2024. The Association may use the Springfield
Oaks Activity Center free of charge for “Discovery Day” for the duration of this
Agreement. The use of the Springfield Oaks Activity Center must be scheduled through
OCPCR designated staff. Use of the Springfield Oaks Activity Center is subject to the
terms and conditions of this Agreement.
8. General Terms and Conditions. The terms and conditions contained in Section 8 apply
equally to the entire Agreement.
8.1. Monies Owed to OCPRC. In consideration for use of the Premises, Facilities, Park,
Barns, and Kitchen, the Association shall pay OCPRC the following in the form of cash
monies and/or the equivalent in paid receipts from approved maintenance and/or capital
improvement projects, as approved by OCPRC in its sole discretion and subject to
Section 8.6: (1) ten percent (10%) of the gross receipts associated with vehicle parking
for the Fair by September 1st, for the year in which the Fair was held (“Parking Fee”);
(2) fifteen percent (15%) of the gross receipts associated with the indoor storage of
vehicles and boats, on County property, by September 1st, for the year in which the
vehicles and boats were stored (:Storage Fee”); and (3) twenty thousand dollars
($20,000.00) each year on first day of each year this Agreement is in effect for capital
improvement projects or maintenance projects for the Park (“Capital Improvement and
Maintenance Fee”). The Capital Improvement and Maintenance Fee shall increase
annually by two percent (2%) beginning on January 1, 2025. By amendment to this
Agreement, the Parties may agree to increase the Capital Improvement and
Maintenance Fee on a one-time basis or an on-going basis.
8.2. Use of Monies Paid to OCPRC. Each year the OCPRC Director or his/her designee
and the Association President shall meet to discuss and create a list of capital
improvement projects or maintenance projects that are needed or may be needed at the
Park. OCPRC shall approve such projects before they can be performed. If OCPRC
does not approve any projects on the list by the end of OCPRC’s fiscal year (in which
they were approved) or a list is not created, then OCPRC may use the Parking Fee and
Storage Fee, in its sole discretion, for any recreational purpose. The Capital
Improvement and Maintenance Fee shall be used for capital improvement projects or
maintenance projects on the list created by this Section. If OCPRC does not approve
any projects on the list by the end of OCPRC’s fiscal year (in which they were
approved) or a list is not created, then the Capital Improvement and Maintenance Fee or
any unused portion thereof, shall be accounted for in a designated OCPRC fund to be
carried over to be used in the next fiscal year or subsequent year(s). All monies that are
in this designated OCPRC Fund at the expiration or termination of this Agreement,
OCPRC’s money.
8.3. Insurance. The Association shall obtain and maintain insurance according to the
specifications set forth in Exhibit E, which specifications shall be set by the County
Risk Management Department or its successor department. The County Risk
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Management Department or its successor department may review the insurance
specifications contained in Exhibit E every five (5) years for adequacy. After such
review, if the County Risk Management Department determines, in its reasonable
discretion, that the coverages in effect at the time of review are inadequate, then the
Association may be required to increase the coverages to reflect the litigation awards
and the insurance climate as it exists at that time.
8.4. “As-Is.” The Association acknowledges that it is leasing and/or using the Premises,
Facilities, Park, Barns, and Kitchen “As Is” and it had an opportunity to inspect the
Premises, Facilities, Park, Barns, and Kitchen.
8.5. Liability.
8.5.1. Damage to County/OCPRC Property. The Association shall be responsible
for any damage to any County or OCPRC property or facility that is caused by
the Association, its employees, agents, volunteers, or subcontractors on the
Premises, Facilities, Park, Barns, or Kitchen, because of the Association’s use
of the Premises, Facilities, Park, Barns, or Kitchen. If damage occurs, OCPRC
shall make the necessary repairs and/or replacements or cause a third party to
make the necessary repairs or replacements; provided, however, that
Association shall reimburse OCPRC the cost for repairing and/or replacing the
damaged property or facilities. If the County makes a claim under its insurance
policy and the claim is approved and paid, the Association’s liability under this
Section is capped at the amount of the County’s insurance deductible and the
Association shall reimburse the County for any such deductible. OCPRC shall
invoice the Association for the costs under this Section and the Association
shall pay the invoice within thirty (30) days of receipt.
8.5.2. Damage to Association Property. The Association shall be solely liable and
responsible for any property loss or damage resulting from fire, theft or other
means to its personal property located, kept, or stored on the Premises,
Facilities, Park, Barns, or Kitchen.
8.5.3. Third Party Claims. The Association shall be solely liable and responsible for
any Claims, as defined herein, occurring at or on the Premises, Facilities, Park,
Barns, or Kitchen which arise out of the acts or omissions of the Association or
its employees, agents, volunteers, or subcontractors use of the Premises,
Facilities Park, Barns, or Kitchen.
8.5.4. Hazardous Material/Debris. The Association shall not cause to be discharged
or allow any person or entity to discharge any hazardous material, waste, or
debris on any OCPRC or County property. The Association shall be responsible
for cleanup, remediation, and/or restoration of any pollution resulting from any
leaks/spills caused by the Association’s use of the Premises, Facilities, Park,
Barns, or Kitchen, including the storage of vehicles and boats.
8.5.5. Indemnification. The Association shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless
the County, its Boards, Commissions, officials, and employees from any and all
Claims, as defined herein, that are incurred by or asserted against the County or
its Boards, Commissions, officials, and employees by any person or entity
which are alleged to have been caused by or found to arise from the acts or
omissions of the Association or its employees, agents, volunteers, or
subcontractors.
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8.5.6. Definition of Claim. “Claim” means any loss; complaint; demand for relief or
damages; lawsuit; cause of action; proceeding; judgment; penalty; costs or other
liability of any kind which is imposed on, incurred by, or asserted against the
County or for which the County may become legally or contractually obligated
to pay or defend against, whether commenced or threatened, including, but not
limited to, reimbursement for reasonable attorney fees, mediation, facilitation,
arbitration fees, witness fees, court costs, investigation expenses, litigation
expenses, or amounts paid in settlement.
8.6. Alterations or Improvements. The Association shall not make any alterations or
improvements to or upon the Premises, Facilities, Park, Barns, or Kitchen without the
prior written consent of the OCPRC Director. Any alterations or improvements made
to or upon the Premises, Facilities, Park, Barns, or Kitchen shall become the sole
property of OCPRC immediately upon completion, unless the OCPRC Director agrees
otherwise in writing, prior to construction. Any alterations or improvements made to or
upon the Premises, Facilities, Park, Barns, or Kitchen shall be performed by a properly
qualified contractor approved by the OCPRC Director. Any alteration or improvement
identified in the annual project review meeting (described in Section 8.2) and
commenced, shall be completed in the fiscal year agreed to. Alterations or
improvements shall be made only during normal business hours and done in such a way
as not to interfere with the use of the Premises, Facilities, Park, Barns, or Kitchen by
others. Any contractor retained by the Association shall comply with MCL 129.201, et
seq. Any remodeling, renovation, improvements, or other modifications to the
Premises, Facilities, Park, Barns, or Kitchen by the Association will be at the
Association’s sole expense, unless otherwise agreed by the Parties in writing.
8.7. Signs. With prior written permission of the OCPRC Director and the local
governmental entity, as applicable, the Association may attach, install, or erect signs on
the interior and exterior walls of the Premises, Facilities, Park, Barns, or Kitchen as
necessary for the Association’s use or business at the Premises, Facilities, Park, Barns,
or Kitchen. All signs on or around the Premises, Facilities, Park, Barns, or Kitchen
shall comply with OCPRC Rules and Regulations and local ordinances.
8.8. Rental Schedule. OCPRC shall provide a facility rental schedule for Springfield Oaks
County Park to the Association for the upcoming year by Oct 1. OCPRC shall provide
an updated schedule on a monthly basis, if there are any changes.
8.9. Assignment. Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, the Association shall not
assign, sublet or in any manner transfer this Agreement or any estate or interest therein
without the prior written consent of OCPRC.
8.10. No Third-Party Beneficiaries. Except as provided for the benefit of the Parties, this
Agreement does not and is not intended to create any obligation, duty, promise,
contractual right or benefit, right to be indemnified, right to be subrogated to the
Parties’ right in this Agreement, or any other right in favor of any other person or
entity.
8.11. Compliance with Laws. The Association shall comply with all federal, state, and local
laws, statutes, ordinances, regulations, insurance policy requirements, and requirements
applicable to its activities under this Agreement, including but not limited to Michigan
Department of Agricultural and Rural Development rules, regulations, and orders and
the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services rules, regulations, and orders,
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and Oakland County Division, regulations, and orders. The Association shall also
comply with all OCPRC Rules and Regulations.
8.12. Reservation of Rights. This Agreement does not, and is not intended to impair, divest,
delegate, or contravene any constitutional, statutory, or other legal right, privilege,
power, obligation, duty, or immunity of the County.
8.13. Binding Effect. The terms and conditions of this Agreement shall be binding and shall
inure to the benefit of the Parties and their respective representatives, successors, and
assigns.
8.14. Captions. Section and subsection numbers, captions, and any index to sections or
subsections contained in this Agreement are intended for the convenience of the reader
and are not intended to have any substantive meaning and shall not be interpreted to
limit or modify any substantive provisions of this Agreement. In this Agreement, for
any noun or pronoun, use of the singular or plural form, use of the nominative,
possessive, or objective case, and any reference to gender (masculine, feminine, and
neuter) shall mean the appropriate form, case, or gender as the context requires.
8.15. Waiver. Waiver of any term or condition under this Agreement must be in writing and
notice given pursuant to this Agreement. No written waiver, in one or more instances,
shall be deemed or construed as a continuing waiver of any term or condition of this
Agreement. No waiver by either Party shall subsequently affect its right to require
strict performance of this Agreement.
8.16. Cumulative Remedies. A Party’s exercise of any remedy shall not preclude the
exercise of any other remedies, all of which shall be cumulative. A Party shall have the
right, in its sole discretion, to determine which remedies are to be exercised and in
which order.
8.17. Severability. If a court of competent jurisdiction finds a term or condition of this
Agreement to be illegal or invalid, then the term or condition shall be deemed severed
from this Agreement. All other terms or conditions shall remain in full force and effect.
8.18. Notices.
8.18.1. All notices for OCPRC shall be sent to: Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission, Director, 2800 Watkins Lake Road, Waterford, Michigan 48328
8.18.2. All notice for the Association shall be sent to: Oakland County 4-H Fair
Association, General Manager, 12451 Andersonville Road, Davisburg,
Michigan, 48350 and Oakland County 4-H Fair Association, President, 12451
Andersonville Road, Davisburg, Michigan, 48350
8.19. Modifications/Amendments. Any modification or amendments to this Agreement
must be in writing and signed by both parties. Any modifications or amendments to
this Agreement shall be approved by OCPRC and executed by the Chairperson of the
Parks Commission, on behalf of the County. OCPRC is authorized to accept donations
or gifts of equipment, money, or improvements to facilities or real property from the
Association, which donation or gift shall be codified as an amendment to this
Agreement.
8.20. Governing Laws/Consent to Jurisdiction and Venue. This Agreement shall be
governed, interpreted, and enforced by the laws of the State of Michigan. Except as
otherwise required by law or court rule, any action brought to enforce, interpret, or
decide any Claim arising under or related to this Agreement shall be brought in the
Sixth Judicial Circuit Court of the State of Michigan, the 50th District of the State of
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Michigan, or the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan,
Southern Division, as dictated by the applicable jurisdiction of the court. Except as
otherwise required by law or court rule, venue is proper in the courts set forth above.
The choice of forum set forth above shall not be deemed to preclude the enforcement of
any judgment obtained in such forum or taking action under this Agreement to enforce
such judgment in any appropriate jurisdiction.
8.21. Entire Agreement. This Agreement represents the entire agreement and understanding
between the Parties. This Agreement supersedes all other prior oral or written
understandings, communications, agreements, or contracts between the Parties. Upon
full execution of this Agreement, the January 1, 2017 Agreement between the Parties
shall terminate. The language of this Agreement shall be construed as a whole
according to its fair meaning and not construed strictly for or against any Party.
8.22. Execution in Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each of
which shall be an original and all shall constitute one instrument/document.
THE COUNTY OF OAKLAND:
______________________________________________________________________________
David T. Woodward, Chairperson, Date
Oakland County Board of Commissioners
THE OAKLAND COUNTY 4-H FAIR ASSOCIATION:
______________________________________________________________________________
By: Date
Oakland Couny Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 2
Department: Park Operations
From: Thomas Hughes, Chief, Park Operations and Maintenance – North District
Subject: Oakland Astronomy Club License Agreement
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
The Oakland Astronomy Club (OAC) is a non-profit organization that has been utilizing the
viewing platform at Addison Oaks for over 30 years. The goal of the OAC is to provide astronomy
education, recreation, and research opportunities to the members and general public, both youth
and adult. Addison Oaks is a unique dark sky location in Oakland County to provide this
opportunity. Through established agreements during this time, the OAC has provided these
opportunities at Addison Oaks in exchange for use of the viewing platform and storage of
astronomy equipment at the Addison Oaks viewing platform. The OAC also provides astronomy
programs to support park events and the campground recreation program at Addison Oaks.
The proposed agreement with the OAC was reviewed and updated by Corporation Counsel. This
would be a three-year agreement that would be valid until December 31, 2026. Insurance
requirements will be reviewed annually to ensure they are up to date.
ATTACHMENTS
1.Oakland Astronomy Club License Agreement
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommend to approve the license agreement between the Oakland Astronomy Club and
Oakland County Parks for the use of astronomy viewing platform at Addison Oaks County Park.
MOTION
Move to approve the license agreement between the Oakland Astronomy Club and Oakland
County Parks for use of the viewing platform at Addison Oaks County Park.
RETURN TO AGENDA
Page 1 of 8
OAC LICENSE AGREEMENT 01-24-24
License Agreement
The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission (OCPRC) hereby grants a License for use
of its property as set forth herein to:
Name of Entity or Person (“Licensee”): Oakland Astronomy Club (OAC)
Address: c/o Bill Girardin (Treasurer), 600 Shelley Dr, Rochester Hills, MI 48307
Contact Person: Gary Dietz (2021 President)
Telephone Number: 248.425.5753
E-Mail Address: garymdietz@comcast.net
For and in consideration of the issuance of this License, the Parties agree to the following terms
and conditions:
1. Use of OCPRC Property. Licensee may only use the property described below for the
purposes set forth in this Agreement.
1.1. Property. Addison Oaks County Park including Lake George Field, viewing platform
and platform shed. (“Property”)
1.2. Events. OAC viewing events and programs.
1.3. Uses.
1.3.1. OAC may utilize the viewing platform shed for storage of astronomy viewing
equipment.
1.3.2. OAC may use the property and the Lake George Field platform for nighttime
viewing.
1.3.3. OAC sponsored viewings, events, and programs are also permitted if an OAC
member is present at all times.
1.3.4. OAC may have one pavilion rental, from April 15 to October 31, for a club
meeting/event, each calendar year the Agreement is in effect. Cost shall be $0 if
rental is on a weekday or $50 (current weekday rate) if rental is on a Saturday or
Sunday. Rental may not fall on a holiday at the reduced rate.
1.4. Term of Agreement. This Agreement shall begin on 1/24/2024 (“Effective Date”),
and notwithstanding a license generally being terminable at the will of the licensor,
and presuming no default by the Licensee in performance of any of the terms and
conditions of this Agreement, which may cause the license to be immediately
revoked, it shall end on 12/31/2026 (“Termination Date”).
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OAC LICENSE AGREEMENT 01-24-24
1.5. Fee. -$0-
1.6. Condition of Property. During this Agreement, Licensee shall keep the Property in
good order, in a clean and safe condition, and free of trash. Except for normal wear
and tear, Licensee’s use of the Property shall not cause damage or waste to the
Property and shall not disrupt OCPRC’s operations on or around the Property.
Licensee is responsible for putting all trash and debris into the appropriate
receptacles.
1.7. Condition of Property upon end of Agreement. Except for normal wear and tear, at
the expiration or termination of this Agreement, Licensee shall leave or return the
Property in the same condition that Licensee found it. The Property must be clean
and free of all trash and debris. Licensee shall remove of all of its personal property
within thirty (30) days of expiration or termination of this Agreement. If Licensee does
not remove its personal property within the thirty (30) day period, such property shall
be deemed the property of OCPRC and OCPRC shall remove and dispose of it as OCPRC
sees fit. Licensee shall be responsible for all costs incurred by OCPRC associated with
the removal and disposal of Licensee’s personal property.
1.8. Compliance with Law and Park Rules. Licensee, including its employees, agents,
invitees, volunteers, subcontractors, and any other persons on the Property because
of Licensee’s use of the Property, must comply with all applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances, the OCPRC Rules and Regulations, and the
provisions of this Agreement. Failure to comply with this Section may result in the
immediate termination of the use of the Property, without advance notice to Licensee
and without refund of the Fee, at OCPRC’s sole discretion.
1.9. Signs/Advertisement. Licensee shall not place any signs or advertisements on the
Property without the prior written approval of the OCPRC Executive Director or
his/her designee. Licensee shall not use the Property in Licensee advertising or
informational documents (either electronic or printed copies) without the prior
written approval of the OCPRC Executive Officer or his/her designee.
1.10. Alterations, Additions, Changes to Property. Licensee shall not make any
alterations, additions, or changes to the Property, without the prior written approval
of the OCPRC Executive Officer or his/her designee.
1.11. Property AS IS. LICENSEE ACCEPTS THE PROPERTY “AS IS.” LICENSEE
ACKNOWLEDGES THAT LICENSEE HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO INSPECT THE
PROPERTY AND EITHER INSPECTED THE PROPERTY OR CHOSE NOT TO INSPECT THE
PROPERTY.
1.12. No Smoking. Smoking is prohibited on the Property.
1.13. Alcohol Use on Property.
1.13.1. Licensee shall not sell or allow anyone to sell alcoholic beverages on the
Property, unless prior written approval is given by OCPRC.
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OAC LICENSE AGREEMENT 01-24-24
1.13.2. Alcoholic beverages may be consumed, served, and/or sold on the Property,
subject to law and the OCPRC Rules and Regulations; except that there are no
alcoholic beverages permitted at park beaches, waterparks, or waterpark parking
lots.
1.13.3. BY LAW, NO ONE UNDER 21 MAY CONSUME OR TASTE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
ON THE PROPERTY OR OTHER COUNTY PROPERTY. LICENSEE AGREES AND
WARRANTS THAT THERE SHALL BE NO SERVICE OR SALE TO OR CONSUMPTION OF
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES BY PERSONS UNDER AGE 21.
1.13.4. Licensee shall monitor service and consumption of alcoholic beverages at the
Property. Licensee specifically acknowledges that it is solely liable for the service
and consumption of any alcoholic beverages at the Property and that such liability
shall extend to any aspect regarding the service or consumption of alcoholic
beverages.
2. Licensee (OAC) Responsibilities.
2.1. OAC and OCPRC shall create a communication process through which the parties will
transmit notices and communications required by this Agreement.
2.2. Usage of the field and platform is weather dependent; however, an OAC member
must notify the Park Supervisor 24-hours in advance.
2.3. An OAC member must notify Park Supervisor of outing cancellations.
2.4. OAC mutually agreed upon programs reviewed annually
2.5. An OAC member must provide a summary of the previous month’s public outings.
The summary must include group name and number of participants.
2.6. OAC must provide an updated member list annually or when changes are made.
2.7. OAC must provide a lock for the shed on viewing platform. OAC must grant OCPRC
staff access to the shed within 24-hours of a request being made.
2.8. OAC must provide a lock for the main gate on the west side of the Buhl Estate
parking lot. OCPRC staff must be given a copy of the key/combination to the lock.
The lock must be daisy-chained with the OCPRC lock. Replacement of locks shall be
at the OAC’s sole expense.
2.9. OAC shall limit vehicles driving to the platform as much as possible. Parking is
available in the Buhl Estate parking lot.
2.10. OAC must communicate to the Park Supervisor any repairs that need to be
completed to the grounds and/or viewing platform/shed.
2.11. All OAC members using Addison Oaks for viewing opportunities must have a valid
Oakland County Parks Annual Vehicle Pass.
2.12. OAC must notify the Park Supervisor within 24-hours of any damage/injury on the
Property.
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OAC LICENSE AGREEMENT 01-24-24
2.13. Licensee no Agent of County/OCPRC. Licensee, including its employees, agents,
invitees, volunteers, subcontractors, and any other persons on the Property because
of Licensee’s use of the Property, shall not, in any manner, hold themselves out to
be agents, employees, or volunteers of OCPRC or Oakland County, Michigan
(“County”).
2.14. Permits/Licenses. Licensee is responsible for and shall obtain, at its sole expense, all
necessary licenses, permits, and other governmental approvals that are necessary
for use of the Property, including a liquor license for the sale of alcoholic beverages
(if the sale of alcoholic beverages is approved by OCPRC).
3. OCPRC Responsibilities.
3.1. OCPRC shall repair and maintain the viewing platform and shed.
3.2. OCPRC shall maintain a portable restroom in Lake George Field. The portable
restroom is available for use by all park users.
4. Liability/Assurances.
4.1. Damage to County or OCPRC Property. Licensee shall be responsible for any
damage to the Property or to any County facility/property that is caused by
Licensee, its employees, agents, invitees, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, or
any other persons on or at the Property because of Licensee’s use of the Property. If
there is more than one Licensee, they shall be jointly and severally liable for such
damage. If damage occurs, OCPRC shall make the necessary repairs and/or
replacements or cause a third party to make the necessary repairs and/or
replacements. Licensee shall reimburse OCPRC the cost for repairing and/or
replacing the damaged facilities/property. OCPRC shall invoice Licensee for such
costs and Licensee shall pay such costs within thirty (30) days of receiving the bill.
4.2. Damage to Licensee’s Property. Licensee shall be solely and entirely liable and
responsible for any loss or damage resulting from fire, theft or other means to its
personal property located, kept, or stored on the Property.
4.3. Liability for Claims. Licensee shall be solely liable and responsible for any Claims, as
defined herein, occurring at or on the Property, which arise out of Licensee’s or its
employees, agents, invitees, volunteers or subcontractors use of the Property.
4.4. Hazardous Material/Waste. Licensee shall not cause or allow any person or entity
to discharge any hazardous material, waste, or debris on or around any OCPRC or
County Property.
4.5. Indemnification. Licensee shall indemnify, hold harmless, and defend (at the
County’s election) the County, its Boards, Commissions, elected or appointed
officials, and employees from any and all Claims that are incurred by or asserted
against the County, its Boards, Commissions, elected or appointed officials, and
employees by any person or entity which are alleged to have been caused by or
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OAC LICENSE AGREEMENT 01-24-24
found to arise from the acts, performances, errors, or omissions of Licensee or its
employees, agents’, volunteers, subcontractors, invitees, or any other persons at or
on the Property because of Licensee’s use of the Property.
4.6. Definition of Claim. “Claim” means any loss; complaint; demand for relief or
damages; lawsuit; cause of action; proceeding; judgment; penalty; costs or other
liability of any kind which is imposed on, incurred by, or asserted against the County
or for which the County may become legally or contractually obligated to pay or
defend against, whether commenced or threatened, including, but not limited to,
reimbursement for reasonable attorney fees, mediation, facilitation, arbitration
fees, witness fees, court costs, investigation expenses, litigation expenses, or
amounts paid in settlement.
4.7. Reservation of Rights/Limitation of Liability. In no event shall the County be liable for
any consequential, incidental, indirect, special, and punitive or other damages
arising out of this Agreement. This Agreement does not, and is not intended to
impair, divest, delegate, or contravene any constitutional, statutory, or other legal
right, privilege, power, obligation, duty, or immunity of the County.
4.8. Attorney Fees. The County shall be entitled to reasonable costs and attorney fees
from Licensee to enforce any provision of this Agreement.
4.9. Survival. Section 4 and the duties and obligations contained herein shall survive the
expiration or termination of this Agreement.
5. Insurance. Licensee shall obtain and maintain insurance according to the specifications
set forth in Exhibit A. Exhibit A is incorporated into this Agreement.
6. Termination
6.1. Either Party may terminate this Agreement upon ninety (90) days written notice to
the other Party for any reason.
7. No Interest in Property. Licensee, by virtue of this Agreement, shall have not have any
title to or interest in the Property or any portion thereof. Licensee has not, does not, and
will not claim any such title, interest, or any easement over the Property. This Agreement
and/or any related affidavit or instrument shall not be recorded with the Oakland County
Register of Deeds. OCPRC shall consider any such recording to be a slander of title.
8. Successors and Assigns. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of
the successors and assigns of the Parties. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Licensee shall
not assign any portion of this Agreement without the prior written consent of OCPRC.
9. Waiver. Waiver of any term or condition under this Agreement must be in writing. No
written waiver, in one or more instances, shall be deemed or construed as a continuing
waiver of any term or condition of this Agreement. No waiver by either Party shall
subsequently affect its right to require strict performance of this Agreement.
Page 6 of 8
OAC LICENSE AGREEMENT 01-24-24
10. Cumulative Remedies. A Party’s exercise of any remedy shall not preclude the exercise of
any other remedies, all of which shall be cumulative. A Party shall have the right, in its
sole discretion, to determine which remedies are to be exercised and in which order.
11. Amendments. This Agreement cannot be modified unless reduced to writing and signed
by both Parties.
12. Severability. If a court of competent jurisdiction finds a term or condition of this
Agreement to be illegal or invalid, then the term or condition shall be deemed severed
from this Agreement. All other terms or conditions shall remain in full force and effect.
Notwithstanding the above, if Licensee’s promise to indemnify, defend, and hold the
County harmless is found illegal or invalid, Licensee shall contribute the maximum it is
permitted to pay by law toward the payment and satisfaction of any Claims against the
County.
13. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed, interpreted, and enforced by the laws
of the State of Michigan.
14. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, including
facsimile copies, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which shall together
constitute one instrument.
15. Entire Agreement. This Agreement sets forth all covenants, promises, agreements,
conditions and understandings between the Parties concerning the use of the Property
and there are no covenants, promises, agreements, conditions or understandings, either
oral or written, between the Parties other than are herein set forth.
16. Authorization. The Parties represent that their respective signatories have the requisite
authority to execute and bind them to the duties and responsibilities contained herein.
APPROVED AND AUTHORIZED BY LICENSEE:
NAME:
TITLE:
DATE:
SIGNATURE
APPROVED AND AUTHORIZED BY OCPRC:
NAME:
TITLE:
DATE:
SIGNATURE
Page 7 of 8
OAC LICENSE AGREEMENT 01-24-24
EXHIBIT A - INSURANCE
REQUIREMENTS
A. Insurance Coverages. Licensee shall provide and maintain, at its expense, all insurance
as set forth below. The insurance shall be written for not less than any minimum coverage
herein specified or required by law, whichever is greater.
1. Commercial General Liability Insurance: with the following minimum limits:
$1,000,000 Bodily Injury & Property Damage Each Occurrence Limit
$1,000,000 Personal & Advertising Injury Limit
$1,000,000 Products/Completed operations
$5,000 Medical Expense (Any One Person)
$2,000,000 General Aggregate Limit
Commercial General Liability Insurance shall contain the following minimum coverages:
• Occurrence Form
• Premises/Operations
• Personal and Advertising Injury
• Independent Contractors
• Broad Form Property Damage
• (Blanket) Broad Form Contractual (including coverage for obligations assumed
in this Agreement)
2. Supplemental Coverages – As Needed ☐ Host Liquor Liability Insurance with a limit of $1,000,000 each occurrence shall
be required when alcohol is served to guest with no charge. ☐ Liquor Legal Liability Insurance with a limit of $1,000,000 each occurrence shall
be required when a cash bar is present and/or alcohol is served by a Caterer. ☐ Other:
3. Workers’ Compensation Insurance with limits statutorily required by any applicable
Federal or State Law and Employers Liability insurance with limits of no less than
$500,000 each accident, $500,000 disease each employee, and $500,000 disease
policy limit. This requirement is waived if there are no Licensee owners or
employees.
☐ Fully Insured or State approved self-insurer. ☐ Sole Proprietors must submit a signed Sole Proprietor form. ☐ Exempt entities, Partnerships, LLC, etc., must submit a State of Michigan form
WC-337 Certificate of Exemption.
4. Commercial Automobile Liability Insurance covering bodily injury or property
damage arising out of the use of any owned, hired, or non-owned automobile with a
combined single limits of $1,000,000 each accident. This requirement is waived if
Page 8 of 8
OAC LICENSE AGREEMENT 01-24-24
there are no company owned, hired or non-owned automobiles utilized in the
performance of this Agreement.
B. General Insurance Provisions. All certificates of insurance and insurance policies shall
contain the following provisions and/or clauses with evidence of same provided to the
County of Oakland, 1200 North Telegraph Road, Pontiac, Michigan 48341:
1. All policies of insurance shall be on a primary, non-contributory basis with any other
insurance and/or self-insurance carried by the County of Oakland.
2. The insurance company(s) issuing the policy or policies shall have no recourse
against the County of Oakland for subrogation, payment of any premiums,
deductibles, or assessments under any form of policy.
3. Any and all deductibles in the required insurance policies shall be assumed by and
be at the sole risk of Licensee.
4. All policies must be endorsed to include a written waiver of subrogation in favor of
the County of Oakland.
5. All insurance policies must be endorsed to name as Additional Insured: the County
of Oakland and it officers, directors, employees, appointees and commissioners.
6. Licensee shall require their contractors or sub-contractors not protected under
Licensee’s insurance policies, to procure and maintain insurance with coverages,
limits, provisions, and/or clauses equal to those required of Licensee in this
Agreement.
7. Certificates of insurance must bear evidence of all required endorsements and
clauses and must be provided no less than thirty (30) days prior to the event and/or
use of the Property; provided however, if the Property is reserved less than thirty
(30) days prior to the event and/or use of the Property, the insurance certificate
must be provided three (3) business days prior to the event and/or use of the
Property.
8. All policies of insurance required in this Agreement shall be issued by companies
that are licensed and approved to do business in Michigan and shall have and
maintain a minimum A.M. Best rating of A:V or greater.
C. A valid proof of insurance / certificate of insurance must be provided annually
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 3
Department: Development & Engineering
From: Mark J. Adams, Project Manager Engineer
Subject: Independence Oaks – Manor House Demolition
PROJECT CATEGORIES
Approval Type: Conceptual Approval Construction Approval General Approval
Project Type: Capital Improvement Maintenance Enhancement
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1.SCOPE
a.Complete demolition and removal of the existing Independence Oaks Manor House located at 10275
Sashabaw Road Clarkston, MI 48348.
b.Existing utilities will be disconnected and removed, including water, gas and electricity.
c.In a two-phase demolition process, Allied Construction will begin removing the existing residence,
storage shed and detached garage this Spring. Removal of the existing asphalt paving will occur in
the next fiscal year.
2.NEED
a.The building and adjacent garages have been abandoned for over a decade and show signs of
significant deterioration, in addition to the presence of mold and asbestos.
b.Public access is not currently provided and is a requirement of the 2010 Michigan Natural Resources
Trust Fund grand OCPR used to acquire the property. The grant stipulates that the property must be
used to preserve natural areas and to provide outdoor recreation to the general public. See Planning-
Review for future phases that will establish trail connectivity and public access.
3.REVIEW AND APPROVAL HISTORY
Date Description
9/6/23 FY24 MMP Budget Approval
4.FUNDING
a.Current budgeted amount:
i.MMP – Asset Removal Program $50,000
ii.FY23 MPP Contingency $28,000
(1)Total Funding $78,000
b.Recommended total amount:
(1)Allied Construction $78,000
(2)15% Construction Contingency $12,000
ii.Total Project Cost $90,000
RETURN TO AGENDA
Page 2
ATTACHMENTS
1. Attachment A – Planning Review
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends approval of expenditure of up to $90,000 for the removal of the Manor House at Independence
Oaks County Park.
MOTION
Move to approve expenditure of up to $90,000 for the removal of the Manor House at Independence Oaks County
Park.
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Update: January 13, 2024
Asset Identification ................................................................................................................................................................. 2
Site Characteristics .................................................................................................................................................................. 3
Proposal .................................................................................................................................................................................. 3
Legal Review............................................................................................................................................................................ 8
Grant Compliance Review ....................................................................................................................................................... 8
Tracking ................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
APPENDIX A: Historical Significance Evaluation – Manor House and Garage ........................................................................ 9
APPENDIX B: Historical Significance Evaluation – Log Garage .............................................................................................. 14
References ............................................................................................................................................................................ 21
ATTACHMENT 1: Site Map .................................................................................................................................................... 21
Figure A: Site Map 1 (see attachment 1 for full size map)
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Update: January 13, 2024
Figure B: Site Map 2
Asset Identification
Park: Independence Oaks
Budget center: IND
Asset name: Manor House, Manor House Garage, Log Cabin Garage
Fiscal Services Asset ID: 8455 – PLAND IND Upper Bushman (Arnold)
Parcel ID:
Oakland County: 08-03-201-008; 162.31 acres
ITC Transmission: 08-03-201-005; 5.33 acres
CVT: Charter Township of Independence
Watershed: Clinton River
Subwatershed: Upper Clinton
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Update: January 13, 2024
Site Characteristics
☒ Grant agreement:
☒ Proposed project will comply with grant agreements.
☐ Further review with grant agencies is required.
☒ EMR managed land
☒ Project will comply with EMR restrictions.
☐ Project will not comply. Approval by US Fish & Wildlife is required.
☐ Conservation or wetland easement:
☐ The proposed project will comply with easement restrictions.
☐ Further review with easement agencies is required.
☐ Environmental assessments and/or due care plan:
☒ Utility easement – ITC Transmission corridor is a separate parcel
☐ Infrastructure: None
☒ Trail connectivity – existing non-ADA-compliant mowed trail connects with driveway and connects with the
North Park parking lot.
☒ Historical asset evaluation:
☐ Proposed project involves/impacts assets that are less than 50 years old.
☒ Proposed project involves/impacts assets that are 50 or more years old. Historical significance
evaluation attached as an appendix.
☐ The assets are determined to be historically significant.
☒ The assets are NOT historically significant.
Proposal
Asset Description
This review includes three buildings and an asphalt driveway at 10275 Sashabaw, as well as associated fuel storage tanks
(above and underground), septic field, well, and electrical connection.
Manor House – 4,349 SF wood structure with vinyl siding; concrete and stone crawlspace and basement;
includes 400 SF attached garage with 400 SF apartment above; house has been built at different stages.
Manor House Garage – 450 SF structure with 3 garage bays, currently used for cold storage of park equipment.
Log Garage – 150 SF log building has been used for storage. It is severely deteriorated.
Driveway – 11-foot wide by 0.21-mile or 1,120-foot asphalt drive from Sashabaw Road to the attached garage of
the Manor House. Used for maintenance access only. 235 feet of the drive pass through a parcel owned by ITC
Transmission. Gated at Sashabaw Road.
Three other buildings were on the North Park property but have been removed from the park:
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Update: January 13, 2024
The Guest House – 1,368 SF 2-story building was located south of the Manor House. It had been rented for a few
years after property acquisition. The building was considered unstable and removed in 2014 by OCPR staff.
The Oak Hill House – 768 SF wood structure was located on the corner of Sashabaw and Oak Hill Road. It was
used as a rental house for several years after property acquisition. It has been removed and the site restored in
2021 (OCPR/PRD, 1/27/2021)
The Bailey House – 2,464 SF wood structure is located on Sashabaw Road to the south of the Manor House area;
it is considered historically significant and not a candidate for removal. Through a land swap, the house on a 1-
acre parcel was transferred to a private party for restoration in 2021. The land swap qualified for mitigation of
the resulting conversion and has been approved by the DNR.
Problem Statement
The 186-acre North Independence Oaks County Park property was acquired in 2010 with funding from the Michigan
Natural Resources Trust Fund – Project Number TF06-199. The purpose of the acquisition was preservation of high-
quality natural areas and outdoor recreation. The presence of these buildings, especially when formerly used as rental
properties, does not comply with this purpose, and it has been the intent of OCPR to remove the buildings when
feasible.
Natural Resources
The area surrounding the manor house spans the transition between upland and wetland along Upper Bushman Lake,
adjacent natural communities that were likely present before development of the residence included rich conifer swamp
and southern-shrub carr that look down over what is likely a wet prairie. These are unique and diverse natural
communities and the removal of buildings and infrastructure will allow this area to be reincorporated into the natural
landscape. Following removal, the area will be evaluated for an existing seed bank and may be seeded with either
native seed or a cover crop to promote native plant integration and will be managed along with the surrounding areas
using prescribed fire and invasive species control.
Historical Significance
The three buildings are more than 50 years old but have been determined not to be historically significant. See attached
Historical Significance Evaluation documents for Manor House and Garage and the Log Garage for detailed evaluation
and further recommendations for documenting the history of these assets.
Long Term Vision
Independence North has been designated a Nature Preserve. This section of the park will be restored to match
the surrounding natural communities and enhance remnant communities still present.
Explore the feasibility of integrating the Manor House area into the Independence Oaks trail system to allow
passive use and enjoyment of the area. This process will require approval from MDNR and USFWS to amend the
original trail plan for the area. Discuss potential use of ITC corridor for trail development.
Establish a history center at a different location that provides storage for artifacts and tools and has access to a
classroom or other accessible public space for history programming.
Establish inventory system and protocols for retention and storage of reclaimed materials; identify a workspace
for use of reclaimed materials and criteria for implementing projects.
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Update: January 13, 2024
Proposed Actions
Three phases are proposed:
1. Remove buildings and restore the site. This will include management of the following:
a. Asbestos testing
b. Utility Disconnections
i. Utilities will be disconnected from dwellings as part of demolition.
ii. Provide water/electrical connections to site for future development.
c. Temporary well abandonment
d. Septic/leach field cleanout
e. Aboveground Storage Tanks
(AST) – considered RECS (cite
ASTI Phase I ESA p 14-15)
i. 200–250-gallon gasoline
AST to north of Log
Garage
ii. Estimated 150-gallon
propane AST to south of
former Guest House
(removed)
iii. 2 ASTs in basement of
Manor House
f. Underground Storage Tanks (UST) – considered RECS (cite ASTI Phase I ESA p 14-15)
i. Suspected underground storage tank (UST) evidenced by vent pipe and fill port west of Manor
House – likely heating oil
ii. Suspected UST to north of Log Garage
g. Fill should be clean of invasive species and debris including construction waste. Soil should ideally
include at least 6% organic material or be matched to the surrounding soil profile (clay, sand, loam mix
etc.)
h. Seeding will be completed by OCPR natural resources staff and will be custom mix based on the site
locations and surrounding area. Seed mixes contain Oakland County native species; are sourced within
a 250-mile radius; and are developed to support existing communities and to ensure genetic material
from specific species doesn’t interfere with existing on-site native species.
2. Determine future use of the area:
a. Develop a detailed Park Action Plan for the area as part of the North Independence Nature Preserve and
for passive outdoor recreation in the area.
b. Evaluate potential to incorporate existing non-ADA compliant mowed trail and plan to upgrade to OCP
Hiking Trail standard.
c. Evaluate the need for existing 11’ asphalt driveway leading from Sashabaw Road to the Manor House.
Plan to remove all or part of driveway and/or repurpose as part of the trail system.
Figure C: Location map from ASTI Phase I ESA (date, page)
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Update: January 13, 2024
d. Identify funding in the OCPR budget for natural resources restoration and, if feasible and compliant with
EMR restrictions, trail development.
e. Implement Park Action Plan.
3. Manage existing reclaimed materials that have been removed from the Manor House, as well as any future
reclaimed materials:
a. Develop protocols for integrating historical artifacts into education programs.
b. Develop protocols for storage and use of reclaimed materials.
Project Standards
The Asset Removal Program identifies park assets that are at the end of their useful life and where replacement or
renovation is not feasible. The Asset Future Determination planning review is a pre-requisite to implementing removals.
This review contains the following: 1) legal and compliance review, 2) historical analysis if asset is over 50 years old, 3)
examination alternatives to removal, 4) if warranted, confirmation of the need for asset removal, 5) site restoration
plan, and 6) short and long-term goals for site once the site is restored. Asset removals will comply with Oakland County
Board of Commissioners (BOC) policy and all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
Natural Resources Management Project Standards
Summarize/describe as needed and check appropriate items below.
☒ Wildlife emergence. All EMR best practices should be followed for construction and the entire construction
area will require erosion control fencing to exclude snakes from active construction.
☒ Tree or plant materials removal. Any tree removals should include consultation with NR.
☒ Tree disease (e.g., oak wilt). See above, tree removals and trimming should occur during winter months to
prevent the spread of oak wilt.
☒ Invasive species. NR will provide invasive species locations and consult on BMPs for removal pre and post
construction.
☒ Equipment staging. All equipment should be staged within the existing lawn and within the silt fencing.
☒ Topsoil and seeding. All topsoil and seed specifications should be provided by NR.
☒ Long-term maintenance. NR will provide maintenance of native seed and invasive species on-site.
☐ Other: NA
Reviewer: Sarah Cook Maylen, Chief of Natural Resources and Sustainability, 9/22/2023
Environmental Regulations
Compliance with the following environmental regulations and permits is required (check all that apply):
☒ US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake implementation Plan (EMRIP)
compliance. This property is included in managed land and to create a new trail that connects the house site
with the existing trail system USFWS and MDNR review will be required. All EMR best practices should be
followed for construction and the entire construction area will require erosion control fencing to exclude snakes
from active construction.
☒ Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) wetland regulations. SESC permitting
will determine EGLE permit necessity.
☐ Road Commission of Oakland County (RCOC) right of way permitting. NA.
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Update: January 13, 2024
☒ Oakland County Water Resources Commission (WRC) soil erosion and sedimentation control (SESC)
permitting. SESC permitting is necessary for this project.
☐ Other: NA.
Reviewer: Sarah Cook Maylen, Chief of Natural Resources and Sustainability, 9/18/2023,
Alternatives
Potential uses have been explored for the Manor House:
In 2012, staff explored the feasibility of the building serving as park and non-profit office space, but it was not
possible to comply with parking and other local regulations.
In 2016, the Parks Commission requested staff determine the feasibility of restoring the building to use as a
conference center. This proposal met the same obstacles with local ordinances and, per correspondence with
DNR, would have been considered a conversion, i.e., non-compliant with the MNRTF grant agreement.
(OCPR/PRD, 4/12/2016) (OCPR/PRD, 1/18/2017)
From 2015 to 2020, the building was used as a park history center, with staff and volunteers cleaning and sorting
artifacts found throughout the park system. This valuable collection is used for education programs and is being
relocated.
Through 2023 the building has been used to store reclaimed materials from the park system. These materials
are being removed and discarded or relocated in preparation for demolition.
Additional Considerations
ITC Corridor Property: Project vehicles using the drive will pass through the ITC property. Communicate with ITC
regarding the project. Any future modifications to the existing asphalt drive will require communication with ITC
regarding the section within the ITC property.
Tasks and Timeline
Integrate Planning (PRD), Operations (Ops), Project Management (PM), and Natural Resources NR) milestones into the
timeline.
Date (Month/Year) Item Action / Notes Responsibility (Name
or Unit)
9/6/2023 Budget $50,000 approved for asset removal as part of
the FY2024 Maintenance Management Plan
PM
October 2023 Pre-Construction Request Utility Disconnections PM
11/1/2023 Building contents Deadline to complete cleanout of buildings and
contents
PRD
November 2023 ITC Corridor Alert ITC to the project (Heavy Equipment
notification)
PRD
November 2023 Historical artifacts Complete organization and relocation of
artifacts to Administration Building
PRD
November 2023 Project
Management
Kick-off meeting on-site Mark Adams (PM)
Donna Folland (PRD)
Winter 2024 Park Action Plan Confirm future vision and action plan for area PRD to coordinate
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Update: January 13, 2024
Date (Month/Year) Item Action / Notes Responsibility (Name
or Unit)
Spring 2024 Construction Construction Demolition Schedule PM
Spring 2024 Restoration Site Restoration (OCPRC Staff) NR
Legal Review
Legal review: No legal review is needed at this time; given the facts stated at the time of the review, especially because
the structures are being removed, disposed of, and not sold or given to a third-party.
Open Matter Management file? Yes ☐ No ☒
Reviewer: Jody Hall, Assistant Corporation Counsel, 10/4/2023
Grant Compliance Review
☐ There are no grant agreements related to this asset
☒ Asset removal plan complies with grant agreements. Cite relevant grant agreements and pertinent language:
The Grant Agreement indicates that the project area must remain in public outdoor recreation and that any
lease on the property requires DNR approval: MNRTF Project Number TF06-199
Section 12.a: “The GRANTEE agrees that lands in the project area are being acquired with MNRTF
assistance and shall be maintained in public outdoor recreation use in perpetuity. No portion of the
project area shall be converted to other than public outdoor recreation use without the approval of the
DEPARTMENT and the BOARD. The DEPARTMENT and the BOARD shall approve such conversion only
upon such conditionals as it deems necessary to assure the substitution by GRANTEE of other outdoor
recreation properties of equal or greater fair market value and of reasonable equivalent usefulness and
location. Such substituted land shall become part of the project area and will be subject to all the
provisions of the Agreement. “
Section 11: “The project area and any facilities located thereon shall not be wholly or partially conveyed,
either in fee or otherwise, or leased for a term of years, or for any other period, nor shall there be any
whole or partial transfer of title, ownership, or right of ownership or control without the written
approval and consent of the DEPARTMENT.”
☐ Further review with granting agencies is required prior to removal or other major changes to the asset.
Provide details and/or cite relevant grant agreements and pertinent language: Not applicable.
Reviewer: Donna Folland, Supervisor – Planning and Resource Development, 9/18/2023
Tracking
Date Created: 9/13/2023.
Update Date: 1/13/2024
Review coordinated by: Simon Rivers, Donna Folland
Natural Resources (NR) staff: Sarah Cook Maylen, Eric Diesing
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Update: January 13, 2024
Park Operations (Ops) staff: Tom Hughes, Jeremy Brown
Planning and Resourced Development (PRD) staff: Donna Folland, Jon Noyes, Carol Bacak-Egbo
Project Management (PM) staff: Zach Crane, Mark Adams
Date of CMT Meeting: 11/6/2023
☒ Reviewed with CMT ☒ CMT input incorporated ☒ CMT minutes are on file
APPENDIX A: Historical Significance Evaluation – Manor House and Garage
Asset Identification
Park: Independence Oaks
Budget center: IND
Asset name: Manor House
Evaluation conducted by:
Name: Carol Bacak-Egbo
Title: Historian
Date: 9/24/2023
Age of Asset
Is the asset more than 50 years old?
Yes ☒ No ☐ Details: Add text or NA
Historical Significance Criteria
If the asset is more than 50 years old, answer the following questions to determine if it is historically significant. If one or
more of the criteria below is checked, the asset is considered historically significant.
Manor House
Log Cabin Garage
Manor House Garage
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Update: January 13, 2024
Criterion A. Is the asset potentially associated with a pattern of events or a historic trend that made a significant
contribution to the development of a community?
Yes ☐ No ☒ Details: NA
Criterion B. Can the asset be associated with individuals whose specific contributions to history can be identified
or documented?
Yes ☐ No ☒ Details: NA
Criterion C. Does the asset embody distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction?
Yes ☐ No ☒ Details: NA
Criterion D. Does the asset have, or did it formerly have, information to contribute to our understanding of
human history or prehistory?
Yes ☐ No ☒ Details: NA
Is the asset historically significant? (is one or more criterion checked?)
Yes ☐ No ☒
Integrity of Historically Significant Assets – NA
Timeline
Information from OCPR records:
Information Importance Source
1940 Arnold Barrett purchased the land (162 acres)
where the house was constructed from E.V.
Bailey who was the nephew of William Bailey, the
original owner of the land
Acreage Report
1941 The Barretts built a ‘small, simple cabin on the
property which the Barrett’s used on weekends
in the summer.
Interview with Mrs. Maria
(Arnold) Barrett – Conducted
by M. Drake and S. Loria on
June 24, 2011
1941 Arnold Barrett liked the property so much he
decided to build a house and live there
permanently. According to Maria Arnold,
daughter, the Barrett’s were ‘constricted in terms
of what they could build because the supplies
weren’t available due to it being war time. This
may account for why the house was fairly simple
despite the Barrett’s apparent wealth. The living
room, dining room and the bedroom off of the
living room were all part of the original house.
There was also a kitchen and another small
bedroom where the current kitchen is located
Interview with Mrs. Maria
(Arnold) Barrett – Conducted
by M. Drake and S. Loria on
June 24, 2011
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Update: January 13, 2024
Information Importance Source
now. The family room, the room at the far (south)
end of the house was originally a sun porch with
screens.
1944 A baby girl was born to the Barretts and at that
time they added an addition to the house
consisting of the two lower bedrooms off what
would later become the solarium. The child later
died just a few months later of a crib death (note
the death certificate listed the cause of death as
‘asphyxasia”)
Death Certificate for Maria
Arnold
1946 Maria, another daughter, was born. The Barretts
did not have any other children.
Interview with Mrs. Maria
(Arnold) Barrett – Conducted
by M. Drake and S. Loria on
June 24, 2011
1946 –
1980
The Barretts continued to use the home as their
main residence.
Interview with Mrs. Maria
(Arnold) Barrett – Conducted
by M. Drake and S. Loria on
June 24, 2011
June, 1953
-
The Oxford Garden Club visited what was
referred to a the “Arnold Barrett estate”. The
house was described as being surrounded by
virgin cedar trees which were bordered by
flowers and shrubs ‘of all descriptions’ The group
toured the home which was described as being
‘as beautiful as the grounds outside” and being
furnished with modern and antique furniture.
Oxford Leader, June 19, 1953
Sept 1959 The Clarkston Farm and Garden club met at the
house. Other newspaper articles indicate this
group and others frequently met at the house
during this time period.
The Clarkston News,
September 10,1959
Summer,
1980
Harriett Barrett died
Interview with Mrs. Maria
(Arnold) Barrett – Conducted
by M. Drake and S. Loria on
June 24, 2011
Winter,
1981
Arnold Barrett died and Maria Barrett Arnold and
her husband Craig inherited the property.
Interview with Mrs. Maria
(Arnold) Barrett – Conducted
by M. Drake and S. Loria on
June 24, 2011
PLANNING REVIEW: ASSET FUTURE DETERMINATION
Independence Oaks MANOR HOUSE AREA BUILDINGS Page 12 of 21
Update: January 13, 2024
Information Importance Source
1981 Maria and Craig Arnold decided to keep the
property and renovate the house. They took a
small breakfast nook, the kitchen and a bedroom,
which they later turned into a study, and created
a solarium. They also reconfigured the area
where the two lower bedrooms were and added
the master suite with the bedroom and the
library.
Interview with Mrs. Maria
(Arnold) Barrett – Conducted
by M. Drake and S. Loria on
June 24, 2011
1990 The Arnolds added the room above the garage.
Some park records refer to this area as a
“mother-in-law’s apartment” but there is no
record of Craig Arnold’s mother living there and
Maria Arnold’s mother had died by this time.
Perhaps this was term was only used because
later this area was rented out as an apartment by
Oakland County Parks.
Interview with Mrs. Maria
(Arnold) Barrett – Conducted
by M. Drake and S. Loria on
June 24, 2011
December,
2010
The Arnolds moved out of the house after selling
the land to Oakland County.
Interview with Mrs. Maria
(Arnold) Barrett – Conducted
by M. Drake and S. Loria on
June 24, 2011
2011 Oakland County Parks essentially mothballed the
house for some time The house was evaluated as
a rental but it was determined it was too big and
the resultant rental fee would make it unlikely
that anyone would want to rent it. Eventually the
small cabin was rented as well as the separate
space referred to as the “mother-in-law’s
apartment”.
OCPR records and Interview
with Jon Noyes on
September 18, 2023
2015 –
2020
The house became a volunteer work center and a
central repository for artifacts that were
scattered in several different parks. Volunteers
worked on triaging and repurposing artifacts.
Carol Egbo’s History Corps also used the house
for processing artifacts from park archaeological
excavations as well History Corps educational
workshops led by Carol Egbo. Iin addition the
house was used to construct Nature Center
displays and exhibit items. Later the house was
used to create elements used in launching the
ORV park.
OCPR records and Interview
with Jon Noyes on
September 18, 2023
PLANNING REVIEW: ASSET FUTURE DETERMINATION
Independence Oaks MANOR HOUSE AREA BUILDINGS Page 13 of 21
Update: January 13, 2024
Conclusions and Recommendations
• The original sections of the Manor House were constructed as a personal residence around 1941. It appears it
was smaller and less elaborate than the Barrett family wanted due to shortages of materials during the Second
World War. Over time several additions and renovations were made to the house.
• The design of the house does not appear to adhere to any particular architectural style and is not of
architectural significance. Neither the architect or the builder of the house was able to be determined.
• In later years the house was the home of a volunteer workspace, a temporary history center, an archaeological
workspace and several history-related projects.
• Despite the beautiful setting in which the house is located, its age of 80+ years and the family history relating to
the structure there is currently no substantial evidence to declare it historically significant.
• Depending on what the plans for the redevelopment of the site entail, one option would be to maintain the
oldest section of the structure instead of demolishing the entire building.
Additional Photos
Photos above : Manor House attached garage with second floor apartment.
PLANNING REVIEW: ASSET FUTURE DETERMINATION
Independence Oaks MANOR HOUSE AREA BUILDINGS Page 14 of 21
Update: January 13, 2024
APPENDIX B: Historical Significance Evaluation – Log Garage
Asset Identification
Park: Independence Oaks
Budget center: IND
Asset name: Log Cabin Garage
Evaluation conducted by:
Name: Carol Bacak-Egbo
Title: Historian
Date: 9/24/2023
Age of Asset
Is the asset more than 50 years old?
Yes ☒ No ☐ Details: Add text or NA
Historical Significance Criteria
If the asset is more than 50 years old, answer the following questions to determine if it is historically significant. If one or
more of the criteria below is checked, the asset is considered historically significant.
Criterion A. Is the asset potentially associated with a pattern of events or a historic trend that made a significant
contribution to the development of a community?
Yes ☐ No ☒ Details: Add text or NA
Criterion B. Can the asset be associated with individuals whose specific contributions to history can be identified
or documented?
Yes ☐ No ☒ Details: Add text or NA
Criterion C. Does the asset embody distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction?
Manor House
Log Cabin Garage
Manor House Garage
PLANNING REVIEW: ASSET FUTURE DETERMINATION
Independence Oaks MANOR HOUSE AREA BUILDINGS Page 15 of 21
Update: January 13, 2024
Yes ☐ No ☒ Details: Add text or NA
Criterion D. Does the asset have, or did it formerly have, information to contribute to our understanding of
human history or prehistory?
Yes ☐ No ☒ Details: Add text or NA
Is the asset historically significant? (is one or more criterion checked?)
Yes ☐ No ☒
Integrity of Historically Significant Assets – NA
Timeline
Information from OCPR records:
Maria Barrett indicated that the area at the intersection of Sashabaw and Clarkston Roads was once called “McClellan
Hill”, named for the family that owned property in that area. At the northeast corner of the intersection, there used to
be an apple orchard and log structure that was used as part of a gas station. McClelland owned that land. This is where
CVS is now located. At some point the McClellands’ sold that property to another person, who got rid of the log cabin to
build a small vegetable/fruit store. Maria’s father, Arnold Barrett, purchased that log cabin structure around 1950 and
moved it onto their property for use as a residential auto storage garage.
Information Importance Source
1893 Elizabeth Thurstin sold Wm (William)
and Frank Scrace the W ½ of the SE ¼
of section 15 of Independence
Township.
Pontiac Gazette, 14 April
1893
1896 The land at the corner of Sashabaw
and Clarkston roads is owned by F.
and W. Scrace – no residence is shown
on the land. NOTE: this was Frank and
William Scrace, two brothers.
1896 map
1903 The orchards of Frank Scrace were
said to ‘compare favorably with any
others, his peaches being particularly
excellent.” He also had a lot of farm
land along Pine Knob Rd. It is possible
the orchard at the corner Sashabaw
and Clarkston had been started by
him.
Biographical Record of
Oakland County,
Michigan, 1903
June, 1900 David McClelland is living in
Birmingham Village with his wife Retta
and his son Lavern – His occupation is
conductor on the Electric Railroad – he
is renting a house
1900 Federal Census
PLANNING REVIEW: ASSET FUTURE DETERMINATION
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Update: January 13, 2024
Information Importance Source
1908 The land at the corner of Sashabaw
and Clarkston roads is owned by F.
Scrace – no residence is shown on the
land
1908 map
April, 1910 David McClelland is living with his wife
Retta and his son A. LaVerne in
Bloomfield Township in Birmingham
Village – He was listed as an
automobile mechanic working on his
own account – He was living on
“Marten” – nearby roads were Bates
and Maple – he was renting a house
1910 Federal Census
1918 David and Emmeretta McClelland
moved from Birmingham to Clarkston.
Find a Grave
information on
Emeretta McClelland
Sept. 1918 Arthur Laverne McClelland was
employed by his father in farming –
His address was R.D.2 Clarkston
Arthur Laverne
McClelland’s WWI Draft
Registration
Jan. 1920 David McClelland, his wife Emmeretta
and son LaVerne are living in
Independence Township near David
Jones, Verne Reason, Raymond Miller
and Horace Mills – his occupation is
general farming – he owned his own
house but had a mortgage on it
1920 Federal Census
1921 The land at the corner of Sashabaw
and Clarkston roads is owned by Arch.
McIntyre
1921 – W.S. McAlpine
Map Co.
1930 The land at the corner of Sashabaw
and Clarkston roads is owned by David
McClelland
1930 - W.S. McAlpine
Map co.
Apr 1930 David McClelland and his wife
Emeretta are living on Robertson
Boulevard in Clarkston – their home
was valued at 10,000 ( a bit more than
houses around it) - “none’ is listed as
occupation
1930 Federal Census
Apr 1930 A. LaVern McClelland and family were
living on Bushman Road – His
occupation was listed as a fruit farmer
– he was renting the house – Norman
and Hattie Locke were listed just 3
houses away
1930 Federal Census
PLANNING REVIEW: ASSET FUTURE DETERMINATION
Independence Oaks MANOR HOUSE AREA BUILDINGS Page 17 of 21
Update: January 13, 2024
Information Importance Source
Feb. 1934 Reference to David McClelland
orchard at the corner of Sashabaw
and Clarkston roads
Establishes that the orchard was
there in 1934
Establishes that David McClelland
owned the orchard at the time
Oxford Leader
newspaper – Feb. 16,
1934
Aug 1937 Archie McIntyre living in Clarkston and
specializing in farm land. He had been
with Floyd Kent Realty for over 12
years – making it around 1925 - he
was shown as the owner of the land
on the 1921 map
Clarkston News, Aug 20,
1937
Oct 1938 Emeretta McClelland died and was
buried in Greenwood Cemetery in
Birmingham
May 1940 Arthur Laverne McClelland was living
at 7900 Sashabaw Road – He owned
his own house – He and his wife
Mabel had 5 children including David
age 16 – Neighbors included the Smith
family and the Stickney family and EV.
Bailey – His occupation was a paint
mixer in an automobile factory – He
had lived in the same house in 1935
1940 Federal Census
June 1940 David McClelland sold his home on
Robertson Court in Clarkston (the road
was a short road between Main Street
and Clarkston Road) and erected a
small house on the corner of
Sashabaw and Clarkston Roads.
In 1940 David McClelland built a
small house on the corner of
Sashabaw and Clarkston roads
Oxford Leader
newspaper – June 7,
1940
Feb. 1942 Arthur LaVerne McClelland was living
at 7900 Sashabaw – He was employed
at Pontiac Motor Car – He was 42
years old
Arthur Laverne
McClelland’s WWII Draft
Registration
1947 The land at the corner of Sashabaw
and Clarkston roads is owned by David
McClelland
1947 - W.S. McAlpine
Map Co.
June 1948 David McClelland died and was buried
in Greenwood Cemetery in
Birmingham
Find a Grave
Ancestry.com
Sept. 1948 Mr. and Mrs. Lavern McClelland
moved to the house on the corner of
Sashabaw and Orion-Clarkson Roads,
Lavern McClelland had been living
elsewhere and moved to the
house on the corner of Sashabaw
Oxford Leader
newspaper – Sept. 3,
1948
PLANNING REVIEW: ASSET FUTURE DETERMINATION
Independence Oaks MANOR HOUSE AREA BUILDINGS Page 18 of 21
Update: January 13, 2024
Information Importance Source
formerly owned by his father, David
McClelland
and Clarkston that his father built
in 1948
Oct. 1949 David McClelland broke the ground for
a building on the corner of Sashabaw
and Clarkston where he was going to
conduct a ‘business of repair,
lubrication, and car washing.
David McClelland built a building
on the corner of Sashabaw and
Clarkston to be used for car repair,
lubrication, and car washing.
NOTE: no mention is made here of
it being a gas station.
NOTE: This would have been the
grandson of the senior David
McClelland who died in 1948 –
This David McClelland was the son
of Lavern McClelland
Oxford Leader
newspaper – Oct. 14,
1949
1950 Arnold Barrett purchased that log
cabin structure and moved it onto his
property for use as a residential auto
storage garage.
Record of an interview
with Maria Arnold in an
OCPR document with no
date or author
1952 Pierre Gourand moved from Paris with
his parents (Michel and Pierette) who
were grocers and wanted to ‘set up
shop in America.
The Clarkston News,
Oct. 29, 1997
1956 The Gourand’s who had been
operating a cider mill in Southfield
bought ‘the land’ in Independence
because it had an apple orchard as
well as ‘a building’.
The family was said to have built its
business on gasoline sales and apples.
The Gourand’s bought the land at
the corner of Sashabaw and
Clarkston.
The Clarkston News,
Oct. 29, 1997
1960 Pierre Gourand bought the business
from his parents when he was 21.
The Clarkston News,
Oct. 29, 1997
The 1960s Gas sales ended in the Gourand
business in the 1960s
The Clarkston News,
Oct. 29, 1997
Dec. 1970 Pierre’s Market located Clarkston at
Sashabaw had Christmas trees for sale
for $3.49
Pierre’s Market was there in 1970, The Clarkston News,
Dec. 17, 1970
July 1986 An article referred to Pieree’s Market
on the corner of Sashabaw and
Clarkston
Pierre’s Market was there in 1986 Oxford Leader
newspaper – July 23,
1986
June 1990 Pierre’s Orchard was hiring a person
for retail sales
The business was referred to as
Pierre’s Orchard
Oxford Leader
newspaper – June 6,
1990
PLANNING REVIEW: ASSET FUTURE DETERMINATION
Independence Oaks MANOR HOUSE AREA BUILDINGS Page 19 of 21
Update: January 13, 2024
Information Importance Source
Oct. 1997 Pierre Gourand, owner of Pierre’s
Country Market on northeast corner
of Sashabaw and Clarkston had sold
five of his eight acres to a developer
for a shopping center.
The Clarkston News,
Oct. 29, 1997
Feb. 2010 A record of the Arnold’s former house
indicates the log shed is 15’ by 17.5’
and “40% Good” condition
An indication of the status of the
log cabin in 2020
Independence Township
Assessing Records as
listed in an OCPR
document with no date
or author
Conclusions and Recommendations
It is unclear when the log cabin was constructed and why. Likely it was built sometime in the 1940s by the
McClelland family. Whether it was part of their orchard business or part of their gas station is unclear.
Arnold Barrett appears to have purchased the log cabin around 1950 when it would still have been relatively
new. According to an interview with Maria Arnold, his daughter, new owners had purchased the McClelland land
and wanted to replace the log cabin with a small store.
It does not seem that the log cabin was built with the intent of reproducing any known historical structure like a
former family log structure. There are no records describing why a log cabin design was chosen for the structure
or the origin of the specific design.
Further research needs to be completed regarding whether the design of the log cabin follows any of the
traditional log cabin construction methods used in Michigan. That might possibly add to the historical
significance of the structure.
Additional Photos
PLANNING REVIEW: ASSET FUTURE DETERMINATION
Independence Oaks MANOR HOUSE AREA BUILDINGS Page 20 of 21
Update: January 13, 2024
Photo above left: south side of building; photo above right: east side of building
Photo above left: north side of building; photo above right: west side of building
Photo above: interior of building
PLANNING REVIEW: ASSET FUTURE DETERMINATION
Independence Oaks MANOR HOUSE AREA BUILDINGS Page 21 of 21
Update: January 13, 2024
References
OCPR/PRD. (1/18/2017). PAM Meeting Notes. Waterford MI: Oakland County Parks and Recreation.
OCPR/PRD. (1/27/2021). Planning Review Asset Future Determination Oak Hill House. Waterford MI: Oakland County
Parks and Recreation.
OCPR/PRD. (4/12/2016). PAM Meeting Notes . Waterford MI: Oakland County Parks and Recreation.
ATTACHMENT 1: Site Map
Revision Date:
Location:
Independence Oaks NorthManor House Area
November 1, 2023 By Dean Serafimovski
K:\ParksRec\General\Design\Data_Share\Dean\Planning Miscellaneous Projects\Planning Review\IND Manor House Map 11x17
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Independence Oaks County Park9501 Sashabaw RoadClarkston, MI 48348
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Independence Oaks County Park
Legend/ Map Symbols
www.OaklandCountyParks.com
2800 Watkins Lake RoadWaterford, MI248-858-0906
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ITC TransmissionParcel No. 08-03-201-0055.33 Acres
ITC TransmissionParcel No. 08-02-152-0025.68 Acres
ITC Transmission ParcelsGarage
Buildings/Structures
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 4
Department: Internal Services
From: Stephanie Mackey, Organizational and Employee Development Supervisor
Subject: Volunteer Policy Update
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
Oakland County Parks has a long history of volunteer support for Recreation Programs and
Events, Operations and Environmental Stewardship. Historically, Parks has not conducted
background checks on volunteers. Through collaboration with the Southeast Michigan Volunteer
Coordinators Network and requests from staff, the Organizational and Employee Development
Unit recommends implementation of volunteer background checks through Verified First.
Implementation of Volunteer Background Checks through Verified First will provide screening
services that includes a Nationwide Criminal Database, Social Security Address Trace, Sex
Offender Database and Nationwide Sex Offender Registry that are integrated into our volunteer
management database, Volgistics. Implementation with Verified First enables us to run
background checks while protecting personal information according to the law, without having any
of that information stored in our database.
This change is outlined in the updated Volunteer Policy and Volunteer Agreement.
ATTACHMENTS
1.Volunteer Policy (Redlined & Clean versions)
2.Volunteer Agreement, Criminal Background Check and Waiver of Liability (Redlined &
Clean versions)
MOTION
Move to adopt the updated Volunteer Policy to include performing criminal background checks on
volunteers, superseding the Commission’s previously adopted Volunteer Policy.
RETURN TO AGENDA
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
04/14/10
Dated Revised:
01/13/2101/11/24
C: 10-001
Page 1 of 4
Volunteer Policy
I. PURPOSE: The purpose of this policy is to outline the process that Oakland County
Parks and Recreation staff uses to manage volunteers at various facilities, programs and
events.
II. PROCEDURE:
A. General Guidelines
1. The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Executive OfficerDirector or
his/her designee shall oversee the implementation and interpretation of
this policy.
2. No volunteer shall be allowed to perform volunteer services without a
signed Volunteer Agreement, Criminal Background Check, and Waiver of
Liability (collectively the “Agreement”). The Agreement must be signed
annually.
3. BCriminal background checks will be conducted on Adult Volunteers ages
18 and up annually at the renewal of the Agreement. These Bbackground
checks may include, but not be limited to, access to the Nationwide Sex
Offender Registry, Nationwide Criminal Database, Social Security
Address Trace, Sex Offender Database and Nationwide Sex Offender
Registry
1.
2.4. The Volunteer Coordinator shall have responsibility for working with Park
Supervisors and Recreation Program Supervisors (Park/Program
Supervisors) on recruitment, selection, orientation, training and retention
of volunteers.
B.A. Recruitment & Selection
1. The Volunteer Coordinator will work with Park/Program Supervisors to
document volunteer position descriptions for each volunteer opportunity.
2. Park/Program Supervisors will request volunteers for various positions,
operations schedules, programs, and events by contacting the Volunteer
Coordinator.
3. The Volunteer Coordinator will use a variety of methods to post volunteer
opportunities, e.g., websites, social media. e-marketing messages, fliers,
and other communications.
4. Individuals interested in volunteer positions must contact the Volunteer
Services Office. Contact can be made in many different ways, depending
on the volunteer opportunity:
a. Online
b. By email
c. By phone
d. Through a referral from a Park/Program Supervisor
5. Selection of volunteers will comply with Oakland County’s Equal
Employee Opportunity Policy.
Formatted: Adjust space between Latin and Asian text,
Adjust space between Asian text and numbers
Formatted: Font: (Default) Times New Roman, 12 pt
Formatted: Outline numbered + Level: 3 + Numbering
Style: 1, 2, 3, … + Start at: 1 + Alignment: Right + Aligned
at: 1.38" + Indent at: 1.5"
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
04/14/10
Dated Revised:
01/13/2101/11/24
C: 10-001
Page 2 of 4
Volunteer Policy
6. No volunteer shall be assigned to a Park/Program Supervisor who is a
relative of the volunteer. For the purpose of this rule, a "relative" shall be
a person holding the following relationship to the employee, whether that
relationship is natural, adoptive, step or foster in nature:
Spouse
Child
Parent
Brother
Sister
Grandparent
Grandchild
First Cousin
Uncle
Aunt
Niece
Nephew
Parent-in-law
Child-in-law
Brother-in-law
Sister-in-law
7. The Volunteer Coordinator will ensure that all volunteers complete an
application and Agreement & Waiver.
a. The Volunteer Coordinator will review all volunteer applications
and conduct necessary background checks to determine eligibility
for a facility, program or event.
b. The Volunteer Coordinator may conduct an initial phone screening
to gauge if the applicant is a possible fit for a volunteer position.
c. Contact information for potential volunteers are forwarded to
appropriate Park Supervisor for review. The Park Supervisor may
contact the potential volunteer for follow up and will confirm the
volunteer assignment with the Volunteer Coordinator.
d. The Volunteer Coordinator will assign eligible volunteers to
various programs and events.
8. If the potential volunteer is not a fit for current needs, the Volunteer
Coordinator will communicate with that person to thank them for their
interest and encourage them to consider future opportunities.
C. Orientation and Training
1. Orientation will be conducted at the location where the individual will
perform volunteer services or if applicable at a general volunteer
orientation. This decision is made at the discretion of the Park/Program
Supervisor working with the Volunteer Coordinator and may be in a
formal group setting or informal 1:1 format.
a. Orientation may include an organizational overview, review of
Oakland County Park and Recreation Rules and volunteer
expectations for the assigned facility, program or event.
b. Volunteers will be given the opportunity to ask questions about the
volunteer position, operation, program, or event as needed.
2. Training on position duties may be conducted by the Park/Program
Supervisor, Volunteer Coordinator, or any other staff member designated
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
04/14/10
Dated Revised:
01/13/2101/11/24
C: 10-001
Page 3 of 4
Volunteer Policy
by the Park/Program Supervisor.
3. Training may occur on an as-needed basis related to volunteer duties at the
discretion of the Park/Program Supervisor.
D. Supervision and Evaluation of Volunteers
1. Supervision and evaluation of volunteers is important to ensure adequate
training is provided and verify satisfactory conduct and performance.
2. Volunteer schedules must be established by Park/Program Supervisors in
advance.
a. Exceptions to established and previously communicated operations
schedules must be approved by the Park Supervisor or their
designee at a facility to ensure adequate and appropriate coverage
for the facility.
b. Changes to program and event schedules must be communicated to
the Volunteer Services Office so changes can be communicated to
volunteers.
3. Volunteer time reporting must be approved by a staff member who has
direct knowledge of the volunteer’s service and is not a relative of the
volunteer as defined in section B.6. of this policy.
a. Park Supervisors or their designee will audit volunteer time to
ensure that hours reported are accurate.
b. The Volunteer Services Office will work with Program
Supervisors to confirm the time reported for various programs and
event sign in sheets.
4. In an effort to maintain a mutually beneficial relationship, volunteer
performance will be reviewed at the discretion of the Park/Program
Supervisor with input from the Volunteer Coordinator.
5. The Volunteer Coordinator will initiate periodic reviews with
Park/Program Supervisors as necessary to ensure that current volunteer
expectations, positions and schedules are effective for the facility,
program or event and support volunteer retention efforts.
6. The Executive OfficerDirector or his/her designee, at their sole discretion,
may terminate a volunteer for any reason.
E. Rewards and Recognition of Volunteer Service
1. Recognition of volunteer service may take many forms, depending on the
nature of the volunteer service.
2. In accordance with the Agreement & Waiver, volunteers may be eligible
for free and/or discounted passes or programs, pursuant to the rules,
policies, and expectations established for the Volunteer Program.
Volunteer benefits are specified in each volunteer position description for
individual operations or programs.
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
04/14/10
Dated Revised:
01/13/2101/11/24
C: 10-001
Page 4 of 4
Volunteer Policy
3. Rewards and Recognition of Volunteer Service are provided solely as an
incidental benefit and do not constitute compensation for services.
4. The Executive Officer Director or his/her designee has the authority to
review and approve volunteer positions and associated volunteer benefits.
5. Recognition events may be held on a periodic basis to promote volunteer
knowledge of facilities, programs, and events as well as appreciation for
volunteers and relationship building between volunteers and paid staff.
6. The Director or his/her designee Executive Officer will review and
approve expenses for volunteer recognition events consistent with
Commission/County budget policies and procedures.
Formatted: Font: Times New Roman, 12 pt
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
04/14/10
Dated Revised:
01/11/24
C: 10-001
Page 1 of 4
Volunteer Policy
I. PURPOSE: The purpose of this policy is to outline the process that Oakland County
Parks and Recreation staff uses to manage volunteers at various facilities, programs and
events.
II. PROCEDURE:
A. General Guidelines
1. The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Director or his/her designee
shall oversee the implementation and interpretation of this policy.
2. No volunteer shall be allowed to perform volunteer services without a
signed Volunteer Agreement, Criminal Background Check, and Waiver of
Liability (collectively the “Agreement”). The Agreement must be signed
annually.
3. Criminal background checks will be conducted on Adult Volunteers ages
18 and up annually at the renewal of the Agreement. These background
checks may include, but not be limited to, access to the Nationwide Sex
Offender Registry, Nationwide Criminal Database, Social Security
Address Trace, Sex Offender Database and Nationwide Sex Offender
Registry
4. The Volunteer Coordinator shall have responsibility for working with Park
Supervisors and Recreation Program Supervisors (Park/Program
Supervisors) on recruitment, selection, orientation, training and retention
of volunteers.
A. Recruitment & Selection
1. The Volunteer Coordinator will work with Park/Program Supervisors to
document volunteer position descriptions for each volunteer opportunity.
2. Park/Program Supervisors will request volunteers for various positions,
operations schedules, programs, and events by contacting the Volunteer
Coordinator.
3. The Volunteer Coordinator will use a variety of methods to post volunteer
opportunities, e.g., websites, social media. e-marketing messages, fliers,
and other communications.
4. Individuals interested in volunteer positions must contact the Volunteer
Services Office. Contact can be made in many different ways, depending
on the volunteer opportunity:
a. Online
b. By email
c. By phone
d. Through a referral from a Park/Program Supervisor
5. Selection of volunteers will comply with Oakland County’s Equal
Employee Opportunity Policy.
6. No volunteer shall be assigned to a Park/Program Supervisor who is a
relative of the volunteer. For the purpose of this rule, a "relative" shall be
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
04/14/10
Dated Revised:
01/11/24
C: 10-001
Page 2 of 4
Volunteer Policy
a person holding the following relationship to the employee, whether that
relationship is natural, adoptive, step or foster in nature:
Spouse
Child
Parent
Brother
Sister
Grandparent
Grandchild
First Cousin
Uncle
Aunt
Niece
Nephew
Parent-in-law
Child-in-law
Brother-in-law
Sister-in-law
7. The Volunteer Coordinator will ensure that all volunteers complete an
application and Agreement & Waiver.
a. The Volunteer Coordinator will review all volunteer applications
and conduct necessary background checks to determine eligibility
for a facility, program or event.
b. The Volunteer Coordinator may conduct an initial phone screening
to gauge if the applicant is a possible fit for a volunteer position.
c. Contact information for potential volunteers are forwarded to
appropriate Park Supervisor for review. The Park Supervisor may
contact the potential volunteer for follow up and will confirm the
volunteer assignment with the Volunteer Coordinator.
d. The Volunteer Coordinator will assign eligible volunteers to
various programs and events.
8. If the potential volunteer is not a fit for current needs, the Volunteer
Coordinator will communicate with that person to thank them for their
interest and encourage them to consider future opportunities.
C. Orientation and Training
1. Orientation will be conducted at the location where the individual will
perform volunteer services or if applicable at a general volunteer
orientation. This decision is made at the discretion of the Park/Program
Supervisor working with the Volunteer Coordinator and may be in a
formal group setting or informal 1:1 format.
a. Orientation may include an organizational overview, review of
Oakland County Park and Recreation Rules and volunteer
expectations for the assigned facility, program or event.
b. Volunteers will be given the opportunity to ask questions about the
volunteer position, operation, program, or event as needed.
2. Training on position duties may be conducted by the Park/Program
Supervisor, Volunteer Coordinator, or any other staff member designated
by the Park/Program Supervisor.
3. Training may occur on an as-needed basis related to volunteer duties at the
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
04/14/10
Dated Revised:
01/11/24
C: 10-001
Page 3 of 4
Volunteer Policy
discretion of the Park/Program Supervisor.
D. Supervision and Evaluation of Volunteers
1. Supervision and evaluation of volunteers is important to ensure adequate
training is provided and verify satisfactory conduct and performance.
2. Volunteer schedules must be established by Park/Program Supervisors in
advance.
a. Exceptions to established and previously communicated operations
schedules must be approved by the Park Supervisor or their
designee at a facility to ensure adequate and appropriate coverage
for the facility.
b. Changes to program and event schedules must be communicated to
the Volunteer Services Office so changes can be communicated to
volunteers.
3. Volunteer time reporting must be approved by a staff member who has
direct knowledge of the volunteer’s service and is not a relative of the
volunteer as defined in section B.6. of this policy.
a. Park Supervisors or their designee will audit volunteer time to
ensure that hours reported are accurate.
b. The Volunteer Services Office will work with Program
Supervisors to confirm the time reported for various programs and
event sign in sheets.
4. In an effort to maintain a mutually beneficial relationship, volunteer
performance will be reviewed at the discretion of the Park/Program
Supervisor with input from the Volunteer Coordinator.
5. The Volunteer Coordinator will initiate periodic reviews with
Park/Program Supervisors as necessary to ensure that current volunteer
expectations, positions and schedules are effective for the facility,
program or event and support volunteer retention efforts.
6. The Director or his/her designee, at their sole discretion, may terminate a
volunteer for any reason.
E. Rewards and Recognition of Volunteer Service
1. Recognition of volunteer service may take many forms, depending on the
nature of the volunteer service.
2. In accordance with the Agreement, volunteers may be eligible for free
and/or discounted passes or programs, pursuant to the rules, policies, and
expectations established for the Volunteer Program. Volunteer benefits
are specified in each volunteer position description for individual
operations or programs.
3. Rewards and Recognition of Volunteer Service are provided solely as an
incidental benefit and do not constitute compensation for services.
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
04/14/10
Dated Revised:
01/11/24
C: 10-001
Page 4 of 4
Volunteer Policy
4. The Director or his/her designee has the authority to review and approve
volunteer positions and associated volunteer benefits.
5. Recognition events may be held on a periodic basis to promote volunteer
knowledge of facilities, programs, and events as well as appreciation for
volunteers and relationship building between volunteers and paid staff.
6. The Director or his/her designee will review and approve expenses for
volunteer recognition events consistent with Commission/County budget
policies and procedures.
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION VOLUNTEER AGREEMENT,
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY
Revised January 2024
Volunteer Information: Emergency Contact:
(Last Name) (First Name) (M.I.) (Last Name) (First Name) (M.I.)
(Address) (Relationship)
(City, Zip Code) (Telephone)
(Telephone)
(Email)
Volunteer Agreement
I agree to act as a Volunteer for the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission
(the “Volunteer Program”). I understand and agree that I am not an employee of Oakland County
or Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission (“OCPRC”); that I am acting solely as a
volunteer; and that I will not receive any compensation for my volunteer activities. I also
understand that because I am a volunteer and not an employee, I will not be eligible to participate
in any employee benefit plans or programs and that I am not considered an employee. My
position as a volunteer can be terminated at any time either by me or by OCPRC without notice
for any reason or no reason.
In order to effectively carry out my volunteer duties, I agree to follow the rules applicable
to OCPRC employees and to follow the direction of OCPRC management. I acknowledge that
even though I am a volunteer, my volunteer time will be scheduled in advance and that I will
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION VOLUNTEER AGREEMENT,
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY
Revised January 2024
comply with the schedule. Failure to be on time or otherwise comply with the schedule will
result in my removal from the Volunteer Program.
As part of my participation in the Volunteer Program, I understand that I may be eligible
for free and/or discounted passes or programs, pursuant to the rules, policies, and expectations
established for the Volunteer Program. I acknowledge and agree that such free and/or discounted
passes or programs are provided to me solely as an incidental benefit and are not intended as, nor
constitute, compensation for services. The manner and amount of free and/or discounted passes
or programs provided to volunteers may be changed by OCPRC at any time and without notice.
Criminal Background Checks
To provide for the safety and security of OCPRC Park patrons and pursuant to OCPRC
policy, I understand and acknowledge that OCPRC performs criminal background checks on all
volunteers, including but not limited to, access to the Nationwide Sex Offender Registry,
Nationwide Criminal Database, Social Security Address Trace, Sex Offender Database and
Nationwide Sex Offender Registry. I understand and accept that, depending on the volunteer
position for which I applied, results of the Criminal Background Check may or may not prohibit
my participation in the Volunteer Program. I also understand and accept that a false statement,
dishonest answer, misrepresentation, or omission on my volunteer application will be sufficient
to reject my application and may result in the termination of my volunteer position upon
discovery.
Waiver of Liability
In consideration of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation permitting me to participate
in the Volunteer Program, I agree to this Waiver of Liability. I understand that as part of my
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION VOLUNTEER AGREEMENT,
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY
Revised January 2024
volunteer duties I may be near potential hazards. I recognize and accept such dangers and assume
all responsibility for and risk of bodily injury, death, property damage, whether known or
unknown, and whether caused by my negligence or the negligence of employees, patrons or
others. I agree to waive, release and discharge the County of Oakland, Oakland County Parks
and Recreation Commission, and the elected and appointed officials, officers, staff, agents,
employees, volunteers (referred to collectively herein as the “County”) from all liability,
damages, injuries, claims or demands on account of injury to me, including death, whether
caused by the County, me, or any other individual arising out of or in any way connected to the
operation of the OCPRC and my acting as a volunteer.
I have read and voluntarily signed this Volunteer Agreement, Criminal Background
Check and Waiver of Liability (collectively “Agreement”). I authorize OCPRC or its agent to
conduct a criminal background check that may include accessing information from the
Nationwide Criminal Database, Social Security Address Trace, Sex Offender Database,
Nationwide Sex Offender Registry and other databases depending on the volunteer position for
which I applied. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement. There are no other agreements
modifying its terms. I acknowledge that no one has made any representations to me that have not
been expressly stated in this Agreement. Any modifications to this Agreement must be made in
writing and signed by me and a duly authorized officer of the County and must specifically refer
to and expressly amend this Agreement.
Volunteer Signature
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION VOLUNTEER AGREEMENT,
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY
Revised January 2024
Date
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION VOLUNTEER AGREEMENT,
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY
Revised January 2024
Volunteer Information: Emergency Contact:
(Last Name) (First Name) (M.I.) (Last Name) (First Name) (M.I.)
(Address) (Relationship)
(City, Zip Code) (Telephone)
(Telephone)
(Email)
Volunteer Agreement
I agree to act as a Volunteer for the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission
(the “Volunteer Program”). I understand and agree that I am not an employee of Oakland County
or Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission (“OCPRC”); that I am acting solely as a
volunteer; and that I will not receive any compensation for my volunteer activities. I also
understand that because I am a volunteer and not an employee, I will not be eligible to participate
in any employee benefit plans or programs and that I am not considered an employee. My
position as a volunteer can be terminated at any time either by me or by OCPRC without notice
for any reason or no reason.
In order to effectively carry out my volunteer duties, I agree to follow the rules applicable
to OCPRC employees and to follow the direction of OCPRC management. I acknowledge that
even though I am a volunteer, my volunteer time will be scheduled in advance and that I will
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION VOLUNTEER AGREEMENT,
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY
Revised January 2024
comply with the schedule. Failure to be on time or otherwise comply with the schedule will
result in my removal from the Volunteer Program.
As part of my participation in the Volunteer Program, I understand that I may be eligible
for free and/or discounted passes or programs, pursuant to the rules, policies, and expectations
established for the Volunteer Program. I acknowledge and agree that such free and/or discounted
passes or programs are provided to me solely as an incidental benefit and are not intended as, nor
constitute, compensation for services. The manner and amount of free and/or discounted passes
or programs provided to volunteers may be changed by OCPRC at any time and without notice.
Criminal Background Checks
To provide for the safety and security of OCPRC Park patrons and pursuant to OCPRC
policy, I understand and acknowledge that OCPRC performs criminal background checks on all
volunteers, including but not limited to, access to the Nationwide Sex Offender Registry,
Nationwide Criminal Database, Social Security Address Trace, Sex Offender Database and
Nationwide Sex Offender Registry. I understand and accept that, depending on the volunteer
position for which I applied, results of the Criminal Background Check may or may not prohibit
my participation in the Volunteer Program. I also understand and accept that a false statement,
dishonest answer, misrepresentation, or omission on my volunteer application will be sufficient
to reject my application and may result in the termination of my volunteer position upon
discovery.
Waiver of Liability
In consideration of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation permitting me to participate
in the Volunteer Program, I agree to this Waiver of Liability. I understand that as part of my
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION VOLUNTEER AGREEMENT,
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY
Revised January 2024
volunteer duties I may be near potential hazards. I recognize and accept such dangers and assume
all responsibility for and risk of bodily injury, death, property damage, whether known or
unknown, and whether caused by my negligence or the negligence of employees, patrons or
others. I agree to waive, release and discharge the County of Oakland, Oakland County Parks
and Recreation Commission, and the elected and appointed officials, officers, staff, agents,
employees, volunteers (referred to collectively herein as the “County”) from all liability,
damages, injuries, claims or demands on account of injury to me, including death, whether
caused by the County, me, or any other individual arising out of or in any way connected to the
operation of the OCPRC and my acting as a volunteer.
I have read and voluntarily signed this Volunteer Agreement, Criminal Background
Check and Waiver of Liability (collectively “Agreement”). I authorize OCPRC or its agent to
conduct a criminal background check that may include accessing information from the
Nationwide Criminal Database, Social Security Address Trace, Sex Offender Database,
Nationwide Sex Offender Registry and other databases depending on the volunteer position for
which I applied. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement. There are no other agreements
modifying its terms. I acknowledge that no one has made any representations to me that have not
been expressly stated in this Agreement. Any modifications to this Agreement must be made in
writing and signed by me and a duly authorized officer of the County and must specifically refer
to and expressly amend this Agreement.
Volunteer Signature
Date
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION VOLUNTEER AGREEMENT,
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY
Revised January 2024
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 5
Department: Administration
From: Chris Ward, Director
Subject: Financial Reserves Strategic Plan / Year End Statement
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
The Commission approved a new Net Position and Financial Reserves policy at the September
6, 2023, meeting as a result of recommendations provided by Plante Moran to update our financial
policies and procedures. The purpose of this policy is to facilitate improved multi-year long-term
planning and prudent management of our limited financial reserves (Net Position).
This policy provides for:
•Maintenance of a Budget Stabilization Reserve or “rainy day fund” target of 25% of our
annual operating budget expenditures to ensure the continuity of services and sufficient
cash flow in the event of unexpected events or a financial downturn.
•An annual accounting of our Net Position, including funding obligated to existing and
anticipated financial liabilities or obligations, assignment of funds for planned future
expenditures and unobligated or assigned funds which are available for the Commission
to expend in support of our strategic goals and objectives.
•A process for the Commission to evaluate our overall fiscal health and establish a multi-
year financial plan for the use of our financial reserves.
•A report of the final year end actual revenues and expenditures of the preceding fiscal
year operating budget.
In accordance with this policy, the Commission will adopt a Financial Reserves Strategic Plan
and receive a Year-End Statement detailing the unaudited actual expenditures and revenues of
the previous fiscal year’s operating budget.
The following documents provide a snapshot of our financial position as of the close of FY 2023.
Revenues exceeded expenditures resulting in an overall surplus of $4,690,921 which was added
to the balance of our financial reserves. The total amount of unrestricted financial reserves
reflected in our Net Position is $33,584,119.13. This amount does not account for funds which
are obligated to completion of prior year Capital Improvement Projects, dedicated for completion
of the Capital Improvement Project and Equipment Plans for our current fiscal year and funds
obligated for the payment of previously awarded grants from the Community Park and Trail Grant
Program. The FY24 CIP Plan approved by the Commission in September includes a significant
one-time increase in planned expenditure to fulfill our $5 million match commitment for the $15
million in ARPA funding provided under the Healthy Communities Plan which will draw down our
financial reserves over the next several years as projects are completed.
As proposed the Financial Reserves Strategic Plan includes:
•$6.3 million for the FY 25 Capital Improvement Plan
•$800,000 for the FY 25 Capital Equipment Plan
•$650,000 for the FY 24 Local Park and Trail Capital Grant program
RETURN TO AGENDA
• Establishment of a Fairgrounds Maintenance assignment to account for funds paid by the
Fair Board under the terms of our new agreement.
• Assignment of funding from excess revenues from our Golf program for reinvestment in
facilities
• Assignment of funding from excess revenues from the Holly Oaks ORV Park for
reinvestment in facilities
The overall financial position of Oakland County Parks remains strong. A large influx of federal
funding has provided an opportunity to create a more equitable park system and to make much
needed investment in revitalizing our facilities. As we look forward, it is important that we remain
mindful of the one-time nature of these additional funds and the inflationary pressures on our
operating budget which could limit our ability to fund future capital needs.
The attached resolution, Financial Reserves Strategic Plan and Year-End Financial Report are
recommended for your approval.
MOTION
Move to adopt the attached resolution, Financial Reserves Strategic Plan and Year-End Financial
Report.
FY2023 Year End Report
Table of Contents
Resolution ..................................................................................................................................................... 1
Fund Assignments ......................................................................................................................................... 2
Year End Fund Balance .................................................................................................................................. 3
Fund Balance Forecast ............................................................................................................................... 4-5
Year End Parks Summary .............................................................................................................................. 6
Year End Parks Fund Revenue Summary ...................................................................................................... 7
Year End Parks Fund Expense Summary ....................................................................................................... 8
Year End Golf Summary ................................................................................................................................ 9
Year End Camping Summary ....................................................................................................................... 10
Year End Waterpark Summary .................................................................................................................... 11
Capital Improvement Actuals ................................................................................................................ 12-15
Capital Equipment Actuals .......................................................................................................................... 16
Write-offs ............................................................................................................................................... 17-18
Contributions/Donations ............................................................................................................................ 19
FY 2023 Budget Amendments ............................................................................................................... 20-26
1
MISCELLANEOUS RESOLUTION
BY: Commissioner J. David VanderVeen, Acting Chairperson,
IN RE: DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION - FISCAL YEAR 2023
YEAR-END REPORT AND BUDGET AMENDMENTS
To the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Board of
Commissioners Chairperson, Members of the Public:
WHEREAS all accounts have been posted and final adjustments made for Fiscal Year (FY) 2023,
subject to any audit adjustments; and
WHEREAS the results of operations after consideration of expenditures, accruals, encumbrances,
appropriations, transfers, adjustments, and closing entries was a favorable variance compared to
the amended budget for Parks and Recreation Fund; and
WHEREAS the unaudited FY 2023 year-end Parks and Recreation Unrestricted Net Position is
$33,584,119; and
WHEREAS The unaudited final FY 23 operating budget expenses were $32,960,472 and revenues
were $37,651,393, resulting in $4,690,921 of budget favorability added to the unrestricted net position
(financial reserves); and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Parks and Recreation Commissioners accepts the
report of operations for Fiscal Year 2023 and the results of operations by line-item after inclusion
of expenditures, accruals, encumbrances, appropriations, transfers, adjustments, and closing entries
are approved.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED details of Unrestricted Net Position and Fiscal Assignments will be found
in attached Appendix A Year End Report.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the FY 2023 – FY 2026 budgets be amended as detailed in the
attached Schedules A budget amendments.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED A budget stabilization financial reserve of not less than 25% or three
months of the annual operating expenditures reflected in annual budget (excluding depreciation and
budgeted surplus funds). The purpose of maintaining these reserves is to ensure continuity of services
during an economic downturn or emergency and to ensure adequate cash flow throughout the budget
year.
Chairperson, on behalf of the Parks and Recreation Commission, I move adoption of the foregoing
resolution.
Commissioner J. David Vanderveen
Acting Chairperson, Parks and Recreation
Commission
Appendix A:
The unaudited final FY 23 operating budget expenses were $35,301,585 and revenues were
$37,651,393, resulting in $2,626,880 of budget favorability added to the unrestricted net position
(financial reserves).
Golf Operation Programs revenues were $6,523,606 and expenditures (excluding depreciation
expense) were $5,698,344, resulting in net favorability of $908,338 available for reinvestment for
future golf operations and capital expenses.
Campground Operation Programs revenues were $2,352,253.16 and expenditures (excluding
depreciation expense), were $3,145,398, resulting in net unfavourability of ($793,145).
Waterpark Operation Programs revenues were $1,699,710 and expenditures (excluding
depreciation expense) were $2,163,529, resulting in net unfavourability of ($463,819).
Unrestricted Net Position (Financial Reserves)
•FY 23 Year End Balance was $33,584,119.
ASSIGNMENT OF RESERVES
•Assigned to FY 2024 and previous Capital Asset Plan Expenditures - $15,871,516
•Planned FY 2025 Capital Asset Plan Expenditures - $7,100,000
•Assigned to Community Grant Program Reimbursement Obligations - $1,173,511
•Planned FY 2024 Community Grant Program Expenditures - $650,000
•Assigned to ORV Operational and Capital Expenses - $84,898
•Assigned to Golf Operational and Expenses - $908,338
•Assigned to Fairground Maintenance Expenses - $20,000
DONATIONS/WRITE-OFFS
Donations for Fiscal Year 2023 totaling $19,759.
Total recommended to write-off as uncollectable is $9,634.
2
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and investment pool 34,517,717.06
101500 Undeposited cash 0.00
104100 Accrued interest on investment receivable 73,103.74
115001 Accounts receivable 384,480.85
115491 Credit Card Chargebacks 0.00
115499 Allowance for Uncoll. Accts. Rec.(100,704.96)
126500 Due from State of Michigan 338,651.15
130000 Due from Other Funds 26,462.39
Inventories 121,115.72
145100 Deferred Charges 2,720.71
Total current assets 35,363,546.66
Noncurrent assets:
161000 Non Depreciable Capital Assets 31,133,310.66
161600 Capital Projects in Progress 6,030,638.31
162100 Infrastructure 72,552,696.73
163150 Buildings and Improvements 34,689,099.64
165000 Equipment and Vehichles 9,301,550.88
Less accumulated depreciation (85,192,571.46)
Total capital assets (net of accumulated depre 68,514,724.76
Total assets 103,878,271.42
LIABILITIES
Current liabilities:
201210 Vouchers Payable AP Cont 450,285.46
201220 Employee Expenses Payable 1,904.15
205210 Accrued Payroll System 365,967.98
207100 Due to Municipalities (483.00)
207270 Due to other governmental units (State of Michiga 0.00
208000 Due to Other Funds 17,210.92
Unearned revenue 232,822.44
Deposits (430,639.11)
240100 Refundable Deposits 9,005.81
230852 Accounts payable 1,133,352.88
Total current liabilities 1,779,427.53
Noncurrent liabilities:
None
Total noncurrent liabilities -
Total liabilities 1,779,427.53
NET POSITION
Unrestricted 33,584,119.13
Invested in capital assets 68,514,724.76
Total net position 102,098,843.89$
County of Oakland
Parks and Recreation Fund
Statement of Position
September 30, 2023
3
Actuals Budget
Add-Back Net Net
Levy Budget Taxable Actual/Budgeted Charges for Total Net Capitalized Capital Non-cash expense Position Position
Year Year Value Adj.Taxable Value Millage Max Property Tax Revenue Services Revenues Expenses (*)CIP Equipment Depreciation Projection Percent
2019 2020 60,238,662,497$ 0.23099 13,735,450.00$ 6,334,009.00$ 21,273,081.00$ 23,151,350.00$ 3,468,227.80$ 377,802.37$ -$ 18,603,825.31$ 80%
2020 2021 4.47%62,933,893,150$ 0.34727 21,580,907.53$ 10,307,911.32$ 33,002,929.10$ 26,321,007.46$ 3,345,963.87$ 386,243.43$ -$24,924,028.33$ 95%
2021 2022 3.85%65,355,802,388$ 0.34439 22,148,123.85$ 11,001,996.79$ 32,996,726.00$ 28,547,111.30$ 2,088,774.50$ 466,587.63$ -$30,718,746.28$ 108%
2022 2023 6.46%69,579,490,494$ 0.31328 23,237,773.51$ 12,428,105.30$ 37,651,393.18$ 32,960,472.61$ 5,168,551.30$ 582,720.89$ -$33,584,119.13$ 102%
2023 2024 7.53%74,817,009,367$ 0.34310 25,514,468.00$ 12,160,164.00$ 38,261,932.00$ 36,336,468.00$ 10,330,000.00$ 800,000.00$ 2,805,677$ 22,443,744.13$ 62%
2024 2025 5.82%79,170,817,312$ 0.33351 26,768,285.00$ 12,160,164.00$ 39,515,749.00$ 37,143,452.00$ 6,300,000.00$ 800,000.00$ 2,700,274$ 20,416,315.13$ 55%
2025 2026 4.39%82,643,868,875$ 0.33579 27,710,341.00$ 12,160,164.00$ 40,457,805.00$ 37,486,962.00$ 2,070,000.00$ 800,000.00$ 2,588,027$ 23,105,185.13$ 62%
2026 2027 3.96%85,916,575,269$ 0.33492 28,775,193.70$ 12,403,367.28$ 41,178,560.98$ 38,799,005.67$ 4,200,000.00$ 828,000.00$ 3,219,547$ 23,676,287.44$ 61%
2027 2028 3.91%89,279,281,089$ 0.33405 29,824,006.37$ 12,651,434.63$ 42,475,441.00$ 40,156,970.87$ 4,200,000.00$ 856,980.00$ 3,219,547$ 24,157,324.57$ 60%
2028 2029 3.87%92,734,461,318$ 0.33319 30,898,189.31$ 12,904,463.32$ 43,802,652.62$ 41,562,464.85$ 4,200,000.00$ 886,974.00$ 3,219,547$ 24,530,085.35$ 59%
2029 2030 3.85%96,304,738,079$ 0.33226 31,998,275.17$ 13,162,552.58$ 45,160,827.76$ 43,017,151.12$ 4,200,000.00$ 918,018.00$ 3,219,547$ 24,775,290.99$ 58%
4
A budget stabilization financial reserve of not less than 25% or three months of the annual operating
expenditures reflected in annual budget (excluding depreciation and budgeted surplus funds). This amount
is consistent with Oakland County’s financial policies and best practices recommended by the Government
Finance Officers Association (GFOA). The purpose of maintaining these reserves is to ensure continuity of
services during an economic downturn or emergency and to ensure adequate cash flow throughout the
budget year.
$-
$5,000,000
$10,000,000
$15,000,000
$20,000,000
$25,000,000
$30,000,000
$35,000,000
$40,000,000
$45,000,000
$50,000,000
2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029
Fiscal Year
Net Position Forecast
Total Revenues
Net Expenses
Capital Projects
Net Position
Depreciation
5
Adopted Amended Actual Favorability/UNF Percentage
$36,881,934.00 $37,200,058.00 $37,651,393.18 $451,335.18 1.21%
$36,881,934.00 $37,200,058.00 $32,960,472.61 $4,239,585.39 11.40%
• Camping Operation expenses unfavorable by $4,544 due to Personnel due to Holiday, Annual Leave, Overtime, Holiday Overtime. Also,
operating costs mostly attributed to Security Expense and Water and Sewer Charges.
• Golf Operation expenses unfavorable by ($232,807) mainly attributed to Personnel due to Holiday, Annual Leave, Overtime and Holiday
Overtime. Also, operating costs for Expendable Equipment, Capital Outlay, Equipment Maintenance Costs.
Expenses
• Transfer to Municipalities totaling $36,832 for Communities Grant program payments to Cities, Villages and Townships.
• Waterpark Operation expenses favorable by $164,103 due to salaries and fringe benefits as not able to fill many part-time positions that
were budgeted. As well as part-time staff not working the number of hours each position was allocated. Operating costs were higher than
anticipated by $58,043 due Building Maintenance Charges, Grounds Maintenance and Recreation Supplies.
• Transfers Out totaling $37,592 for transfers to Motor Pool fund for new vehicles.
• Tax Revenue unfavorable as property tax revenue came in less than anticipated ($682,526).
Parks and Recreation
2023 Year End Report
Total Revenues
Summary of FY2023 Activity
Total Expenses
Revenues
• Personnel total expenses of $17,421,360 which was $864,590 less than anticipated mainly attributed to vacancies, turnover, part-time staff
not working the number of hours budgeted.
• Charges for Service overall favorable $329,861 mainly attributed to Golf and Camping Operations.
• Investment Income overall favorable $708,638 as increase in Market Value and adjustment from reversal in FY2022.
• Grant Revenue totaling $289,625 due to Federal Grant for National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) Grant for Mill Dam Project and
Michigan DNR Grant Funding.
• Other Revenues came in from Sale of Equipment and Sale of Vehicles in the amount of $50,425
• Golf Operation revenue favorable by $1,141,145 due to Green Fees, Rental Golf Carts and Sales Retail attributed to increased activity as
well as restructure of golf fees over the last couple years.
• Camping Operations revenue favorable by $64,470 due to Fees Camping.
• Waterpark Operations revenue unfavorable by ($498,889) due to Entrance Fees Gen Admission and Sales Retail due to less than
anticipated attendance.
6
Adopted Amended Actual Favorability/UNF Percentage
$36,881,934.00 $37,200,058.00 $37,651,393.18 $451,335.18 1.21%
$23,920,300.00 $23,920,300.00 $23,237,773.51 ($682,526.49)-2.85%
$0.00 $10,364.00 $10,364.40 ($0.40)0.00%
$300,000.00 $300,000.00 $342,300.36 $42,300.36 0.00%
$12,274,271.00 $12,418,771.00 $12,748,632.05 $329,861.05 2.66%
$190,000.00 $190,000.00 $898,637.95 $708,637.95 372.97%
$0.00 $0.00 $51,424.51 $51,424.51 100.00%
$197,363.00 $277,623.00 $279,260.40 $1,637.40 0.59%
$0.00 $83,000.00 $83,000.00 $0.00 0.00%
Taxes
• Unfavorable as property tax revenue came in less than anticipated.
Federal Grants Revenue
Parks and Recreation
2023 Year End Report
Total
Summary of Revenues
Investment Income
• Increase in Market Value and adjustment from reversal from FY2022. Budget remaining at $190,000 due to uncertain market conditions.
Transfers In
•Transfers In from Board of Commissioners General Fund to Parks for Trailways Development Agreement $58,000. Also, Transfer In from
General Fund Economic Development Department to Parks for Rochester Fire and Ice Festival $25,000.
• Federal Grant Revenue recorded for National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) Grant for Mill Pond Dam Project.
• Favorable due to Sale of Equipment $27,885 and Sale of Vehicles $20,201.
Other Revenues
Charges for Services
• Charges for Services were favorable mainly attributed to Green Fees $642,625 and Rental Golf Carts 339,239 due to increase in activity and
restructure of golf fees over last couple years. Also Fees Daily Use was favorable by $244,566. Was partially offset by unfavorable Entrance
Fees General Admission ($556,040) at Waterparks and Sales Retail ($170,387) due to less than anticipated activity. Antenna Site
Management ($68,306) due to revenue being recorded as uncollected revenue, has been fixed for FY24.
Intergovernmental General Reimb.
• Favorable primarily attributed to Local Community Stabilization Share greater than anticipated. Funding was a transfer from the Oakland
County General Fund.
Capital Asset
•Favorable due to State of Michigan DNR Grant funding.
7
Adopted Amended Actual Favorability/UNF Percentage
$36,881,934.00 $37,200,058.00 $32,960,472.61 $4,239,585.39 11.40%
$18,294,696.00 $18,285,951.00 $17,421,360.38 $864,590.62 4.73%
$10,756,751.00 $10,900,870.00 $10,246,211.39 $654,658.61 6.01%
$3,258,100.00 $3,258,100.00 $3,271,631.67 ($13,531.67)-0.42%
$250,000.00 $250,000.00 $361,832.00 ($111,832.00)-44.73%
$1,733,752.00 $1,803,257.00 $1,622,029.17 $181,227.83 10.05%
$75,000.00 $75,000.00 $37,408.00 $37,592.00 50.12%
$2,513,635.00 $2,626,880.00 $0.00 $2,626,880.00 100.00%
Personnel
• Favorability within personnel mainly attributed to vacancies, turnover, part-time staff not working the number of hours
budgeted.
Operating
Parks and Recreation
2023 Year End Report
Total
Summary of Expenses
Budgeted Equity Adjustments
•Budgeted Equity Adjustments as no actuals were pulled from the adjustments to cover any overages for FY2023.
Transfers Out
•Transfers Out less than anticipated as fewer transfers to Motor Pool than budgeted for new vehicles.
•Favorable General Program Administration $882,003 is based on actual and projected maintenance activitiy. Also Fav. Special
Events Projects $217,144, Indirect Costs $151,140, Equipment Rental Expense $138,589, Advertising $105,954, Design Fees
$100,000, Contracted Services $84,356 due to less than anticipated use. Partially offset by unfav. Grounds Maintenance
($480,499), Expendable Equipment ($165,277), Building Maintenance Charges ($149,582), Charge Card Fee ($97,472), Equipment
Maintenance ($75,670), Uniforms ($63,152) and Water and Serage Charges ($58,964) due to greater than anticipated activity.
• Fav. Internal Services include Insurance Fund $95,951, Telephone Communications $58,649, Motor Pool $54,833, Drain
Equipment $16,465. Partially offset by unfav. Info Tech Operations ($46,816) based on actual usage.
Internal Support
Transfer to Municipalities
• Transfer to Municipalities unfavorable as Local CVT grants have been paid for current and past years approved projects was
greater than anticipated.
Depreciation Expense
• Unfavorable based on depreciation schedule of capital expenses greated than budget allocation.
8
Adopted Amended Actual Favorability/UNF Percentage
$5,382,461.00 $5,382,461.00 $6,523,606.14 $1,141,145.14 21.20%
$6,000,842.00 $6,088,360.00 $6,321,167.48 ($232,807.48)33.32%
$5,382,461.00 $5,382,461.00 $6,523,606.14 $1,141,145.14 21.20%
$3,259,182.00 $3,258,424.00 $3,457,714.42 ($199,290.42)-6.12%
$1,599,590.00 $1,687,866.00 $2,064,464.36 ($376,598.36)-22.31%
$881,450.00 $881,450.00 $622,823.39 $258,626.61 29.34%
$260,620.00 $260,620.00 $176,165.31 $84,454.69 32.41%
Revenues
• Favorable due to Green Fees $643,097, Rental Golf Carts $339,239, Sales Retail $126,064 due to greater anticipated use and fees
for golf being updated.
Personnel
Parks and Recreation
2023 Year End Report
Revenue
Summary of Golf Programs
Expenses
• Unfavorable Personnel due to Holiday, Annual Leave, Overtime and Holiday Overtime greater than anticipated.
• Fav. Internal Services include Insurance Fund $67,686, Info. Tech Operations $7,155, Telephone Communications $1,915, and
Motor Pool $1,244 due to less than anticipated use.
Internal Support
Depreciation Expense
• Depreciation Favorable mostly attributed to savings within Equipment category.
Operating Expense
• Unfavorable due to Expendable Equipment ($107,388), Capital Outlay ($80,763), Equipment Maintenance ($69,440),
Merchandise ($68,133), Charge Card Fee ($52,138), Water and Sewage Charges ($35,050), and Building Maintenance Charges
($28,777) due to greater than anticipated use. Partially offset by Favorable Equipment $39,931, Ground Maintenance $26,014,
Recreation Supplies $7,370 due to less than anticpated activity.
9
Adopted Amended Actual Favorability/UNF Percentage
$2,287,783.00 $2,287,783.00 $2,352,253.16 $64,470.16 2.82%
$3,564,900.00 $3,671,280.00 $3,675,824.66 ($4,544.66)-0.12%
$2,287,783.00 $2,287,783.00 $2,352,253.16 $64,470.16 2.82%
$1,670,865.00 $1,669,561.00 $1,753,872.17 ($84,311.17)-5.05%
$1,058,115.00 $1,165,799.00 $1,238,872.53 ($73,073.53)-6.27%
$652,420.00 $652,420.00 $530,426.00 $121,994.00 18.70%
$183,500.00 $183,500.00 $152,653.96 $30,846.04 16.81%
Revenues
• Favorable due to Fees Camping $149,426, due to greater anticipated use. Partially offset by unfav. Antenna Site Management
($30,306), Fees Day Use ($25,746), Sales Retail ($19,524) and Rental Equipment ($17,808) due to less than anticipated activity.
Personnel
Parks and Recreation
2023 Year End Report
Revenue
Summary of Camping Programs
Expenses
• Unfavorable Personnel due to Holiday, Annual Leave, Overtime and Holiday Overtime greater than anticipated.
• Favorable Internal Services include Insurance Fund $25,780 and Motor Pool $7,976 due to less than anticipated use. Partially
offset by unfav. Info Tech Operations ($4,212).
Internal Support
Depreciation Expense
•Depreciation Favorable mostly attributed to savings within Building Improvements category.
Operating Expense
• Unfavorable due to Security Expense ($113,348), Water and Sewer Charges ($14,238), Small Tools ($11,468) and Expendable
Equipment ($10,467) due to greater than anticipated activity . Partially offset by Favorable Building Maintenance Charges $56,546
due to less than anticpated activity.
10
Adopted Amended Actual Favorability/UNF Percentage
$2,198,600.00 $2,198,600.00 $1,699,710.69 ($498,889.31)-22.69%
$2,788,724.00 $2,791,174.00 $2,627,070.03 $164,103.97 5.88%
$2,198,600.00 $2,198,600.00 $1,699,710.69 ($498,889.31)-22.69%
$1,511,659.00 $1,511,659.00 $1,143,182.81 $368,476.19 24.38%
$903,815.00 $906,265.00 $964,308.07 ($58,043.07)-6.40%
$286,900.00 $286,900.00 $463,541.57 ($176,641.57)-61.57%
$86,350.00 $86,350.00 $56,037.58 $30,312.42 35.10%
Revenues
• Unfavorable due to Entrance Fees Gen Admission ($290,040) and Sales Retail ($236,783) due to less anticipated attendance,
climate and staff shortages. Partially offset by favorable Entrance Fees Swimming Class $32,546 due to greater than anticipated
use.
Personnel
Parks and Recreation
2023 Year End Report
Revenue
Summary of Waterpark Programs
Expenses
• Favorable Personnel due to Holiday, Annual Leave, Overtime and Holiday Overtime less than anticipated. Also, not filling all part
time positions assumed in budget projections.
• Fav. Internal Services include Insurance Fund $28,181, Info. Tech Operations $6,139, and Motor Pool $4,535 due to less than
anticipated use.
Internal Support
Depreciation Expense
• Depreciation unfavorable attributed to Infastructure category, as the cost of maintaining aging facilities.
Operating Expense
• Unfavorable due to Building Maintenance Charges ($43,718), Grounds Maintenance ($36,913), Recreation Supplies ($26,673),
Expendable Equipment ($20,976) due to aging waterpark facilities. Partially offset by Favorable Merchandise $66,313 due to less
than anticipated use.
11
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission
FY2023 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
BUDGET TO ACTUAL EXPENSE REPORT
Tuesday, October 3, 2023
Asset Name Project Name
Budget
Center Adopted Budget Expended Amt Budget Balance
Project
ID
CIP
Number
Commission
Approved
Changes Updated Budget
Internally
Approved
Changes
BUDGET BALANCE = Updated Budget
LESS Expended Amt
Budget Note
Open $6,806,273 $0 ($84,233)$6,722,040 $2,523,480 $4,198,560
_Projects $0Program or Project Group:$0 $0 $80,000 $80,000 $80,000
2720 $0Wavepool Pump ReplacementWaterpark Pump House $80,000$80,000 Pulled from CIP 17097$0 $0 $80,000FY2023
ADA Compliance, Accessibility and Universal Design $0Program or Project Group:$50,000 $0 $0 $50,000 $50,000
123 $02023 Projects TBDAccessibility $50,000$50,000$50,000 $0 $0FY2023
Amenities and Site Improvements $579,801Program or Project Group:$2,931,673 $0 ($159,188)$2,772,485 $2,192,684
2719 $11,652BMX Storage ShedBMX Yard and Outside $4,34817393$16,000$0 $0 $16,000FY2023
1735 $101,170ADDGroup Area 3 & 4 RepurposingSite and Grounds ($28,450)3604 $72,720 Approval 6/1/2022$45,000 $0 $27,720FY2022
149 $13,498GLGReplacementMaintenance Chemical Mixing $46,50217114$60,000$60,000 $0 $0FY2023
53 $203,058INDReplacementsDock and Boardwalk ($3,545)3619 $199,513 Approval 12/1/2021$200,000 $0 ($487)FY2022
163 $26,148INDBeach Site and Buildings ImprovemenSite and Grounds $44,5223609$70,670 Approval 5/4/2022$25,000 $0 $45,670FY2022
58 $0INDReplacementSite and Grounds $150,00017104$150,000$150,000 $0 $0FY2023
1550 $136ORNMaintenance Yard Utility ConnectionUtilities and Infrastructure $29,86417094$30,000$30,000 $0 $0FY2023
711 $7,005RDDReplacementDog Park Contact Station Shed $17,99517095$25,000$25,000 $0 $0FY2023
1315 $0RDPSite and Landscape ImprovementsNature Center $24,000$24,000$40,000 $0 ($16,000)FY2022
1173 $15,500RWP*ImprovementsWaterpark Wave Pool and Watersl $2,40917097$17,909 CIP to be closed new CIP
and MMP
$250,000 $0 ($232,091)Multi-Year
90 $201,634SACNatural Area RestorationMill Pond Dam $4,436,3913128$4,638,025$4,638,025 $0 $0FY2023
1733 $0SACNatural Area Restoration GrantMill Pond Dam ($825,035)3128 ($825,035)($825,035)$0 $0FY2023
1734 $0SACNatural Area Restoration Local MatchMill Pond Dam ($1,706,317)3128 ($1,706,317)($1,706,317)$0 $0FY2023
Boardwalk Bridge and Deck Repair Program $58,053Program or Project Group:$135,000 $0 $0 $135,000 $76,947
2345 $02023 Projects TBDBoardwalks, Bridges, Decks $30,000$30,000$30,000 $0 $0FY2023
164 $41,464LYGReplacementHole #11 Boardwalk $53,53617101$95,000$95,000 $0 $0FY2023
2351 $16,589SPG, SPR ConstructionHole #10 Boardwalk (NEW)($6,589)17206 $10,000$10,000 $0 $0FY2023
Boardwalk Bridge and Deck Replacement Projects $41,524Program or Project Group:$35,000 $0 $0 $35,000 ($6,524)
62 $41,524LYGReplacementHole #17 Boardwalk ($6,524)17101 $35,000$35,000 $0 $0FY2023
Boundary Maintenance $0Program or Project Group:$70,000 $0 $0 $70,000 $70,000
2346 $02023 Projects TBDBoundaries $10,000$10,000$10,000 $0 $0FY2023
1683 $0RDGHole #2 Net ReplacementBoundaries $30,00017103$30,000$30,000 $0 $0FY2023
2072 $0RDGHole #7 Net ReplacementBoundaries $30,00017103$30,000$30,000 $0 $0FY2023
Building Equipment and HVAC Replacements $398,378Program or Project Group:$590,000 $0 $0 $590,000 $191,622
1616 $7,800GLC, GLG Electrical ImprovementsClubhouse $132,20017144$140,000$140,000 $0 $0FY2022
825 $390,577RWPPool Boiler Replacements (ComponenWaterpark Maintenance Building $59,4233638$450,000 Eng Approval 1/5/2022$450,000 $0 $0FY2023
Building Roof Replacements $374,865Program or Project Group:$425,000 $0 ($17,799)$407,201 $32,336
2353 $15,5002023 Projects TBDBuilding Roofs $9,50017092$25,000$25,000 $0 $0FY2023
157 $9,000GRVRoof Replacement ShinglePark House 6000 Grange Hall $4507108$9,450 Approval 6/1/2022$17,000 $0 ($7,550)FY2022
2045 $22,000INDRoof ReplacementBeach Cove Pavilion $50017092$22,500$22,500 $0 $0FY2023
Page 1 of 4 12
Asset Name Project Name
Budget
Center Adopted Budget Expended Amt Budget Balance
Project
ID
CIP
Number
Commission
Approved
Changes Updated Budget
Internally
Approved
Changes
BUDGET BALANCE = Updated Budget
LESS Expended Amt
Budget Note
181 $160,375RWPRoof Replacement MetalWaterpark Bathhouse ($44,218)17093 $116,157 Approval 6/1/2022$120,000 $0 ($3,843)FY2022
1106 $0RWPRoof Replacement MetalWaterpark Maintenance Building $30,00017093$30,000$30,000 $0 $0FY2023
187 $160,375RWPRoof Replacement MetalWaterpark Pavilion $33,21917093$193,594 Approval 6/1/2022$200,000 $0 ($6,406)FY2022
1149 $7,615WTRStorage Shelter West Roof ReplacemePark Storage Shelter West $2,88517092$10,500$10,500 $0 $0FY2023
Environmental Sustainability Programs $77,989Program or Project Group:$225,000 $0 $0 $225,000 $147,011
2347 $77,989Drinking Water Stations 2023 TBDSustainability ($2,989)17310 $75,000$75,000 $0 $0FY2023
2348 $0Electrification Infrastructure 2023 TBSustainability $75,000$75,000$75,000 $0 $0FY2023
2349 $0Stormwater Compliance ProjectsSustainability $75,000$75,000$75,000 $0 $0FY2023
Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan $35,250Program or Project Group:$0 $0 $0 $0 ($35,250)
2607 $35,250Park ImprovementsPark Assets ($35,250)17364 $0$0 $0 $0FY2023
Irrigation System Improvements $0Program or Project Group:$308,000 $0 ($32,000)$276,000 $276,000
99 $0SPGReplacementGolf Course Irrigation System $276,00017197$276,000$308,000 $0 ($32,000)FY2023
Paved Pathway Replacements $861,552Program or Project Group:$950,000 $0 $44,754 $994,754 $133,202
2123 $565,280LYGReplacementGolf Cart Paths ($65,670)7102 $499,610$475,000 $0 $24,610FY2023
2125 $296,271SPGReplacementGolf Cart Paths $198,8737102$495,144$475,000 $0 $20,144Multi-Year
Road and Parking Lot Replacements $96,069Program or Project Group:$1,086,600 $0 $0 $1,086,600 $990,531
61 $40,632LYC, LYG, LYP Entrance Drive ReplacementPavement and Drainage $570,96817281$611,600$611,600 $0 $0FY2023
63 $40,754LYGParking Lot ReplacementPavement and Drainage $434,24617281$475,000$475,000 $0 $0FY2023
2134 $14,683SACPavement ImprovementsPavement and Drainage $38,06717196$52,750$52,750 $0 $0FY2023
2141 $0SACPavement Improvements ReimbursePavement and Drainage ($52,750)($52,750)($52,750)$0 $0FY2023
Closed $2,499,400 ($10,344)($4,152)$2,484,904 $2,516,453 ($31,549)
_Projects $198,253Program or Project Group:$134,000 $7,656 $18,902 $160,558 ($37,695)
2249 $10,990ACCConference Center HVAC System ReplConference Center $9,0102885$20,000$0 $0 $20,000FY2022
2309 $0GRVDecking ReplacementsCabins $75,000$75,000 CIP to GRV 1/5/2022$84,000 ($9,000)$0FY2022
1821 $0GRVUtility Enclosure - COMPLETEDConcession $20,000$20,000$20,000 $0 $0FY2023
160 $19,610GRVReplacementFirewood Shed ($4,610)3642 $15,000$15,000 $0 $0FY2022
1936 $129,100HRVParking LotThe Ledge Parking Area $69,8023172$198,902 Approval 3/2/2022$200,000 $0 ($1,098)FY2022
1937 $0HRVParking Lot Grant ReimbursementThe Ledge Parking Area ($200,000)3172 ($200,000)($200,000)$0 $0FY2022
2247 $26,273ORNDog Park Asphalt ImprovementsPavement and Drainage ($9,617)3648 $16,656 MMP to CIP 2/10/2022$0 $16,656 $0FY2022
2097 $12,281WTRDeck Repairs/ReplacementLookout Lodge $2,71917280$15,000$15,000 $0 $0FY2023
_Projects / Playground Replacement and Improvement $251,070Program or Project Group:$240,000 $0 $24,000 $264,000 $12,930
281 $81,595ADDRelocation and ReplacementCampground Playground $6,4053649$88,000 Approval 12/1/2021$80,000 $0 $8,000FY2022
1224 $86,470GRVReplacementPines Playground $1,5303651$88,000 Approval 12/1/2021$80,000 $0 $8,000FY2022
56 $83,005INDReplacementMoraine Knoll Playground $4,9953650$88,000 Approval 12/1/2021$80,000 $0 $8,000FY2022
Accessibility Transition Program $0Program or Project Group:$50,000 $0 $0 $50,000 $50,000
2354 $02022 Projects TBDAccessibility $20,000$20,000 Approval 6/1/2022$50,000 $0 ($30,000)FY2022
2334 $0ADDGroup Area 3 & 4 Access RoutesSite and Grounds $15,000$15,000 Approval 6/1/2022$0 $0 $15,000FY2022
2335 $0INDAccess RoutesMoraine Knoll Playground $15,000$15,000 Approval 6/1/2022$0 $0 $15,000FY2022
Amenities and Site Improvements $341,176Program or Project Group:$249,900 $0 $144,600 $394,500 $53,324
1819 $64,833ADDConversion to Park OfficesHouse 1480 W Romeo Road $47,86717232$112,700$0 $0 $112,700FY2023
2439 $11,076INDContact Station Well ReplacementContact Station $92417229$12,000$0 $0 $12,000FY2023
2221 $181,560INDBridge ReplacementNature Center Bridge $3,44017207$185,000$185,000 $0 $0FY2023
Page 2 of 4 13
Asset Name Project Name
Budget
Center Adopted Budget Expended Amt Budget Balance
Project
ID
CIP
Number
Commission
Approved
Changes Updated Budget
Internally
Approved
Changes
BUDGET BALANCE = Updated Budget
LESS Expended Amt
Budget Note
2440 $20,811ORNDog Park Well ReplacementUtilities and Infrastructure ($811)17228 $20,000$0 $0 $20,000FY2023
79 $62,895RWPLazy River Tube Corral ADA Entrance Waterpark River Ride $1,90517184$64,800 Approval 6/1/2022$64,900 $0 ($100)FY2022
Building Equipment and HVAC Replacement Program $50,034Program or Project Group:$155,000 ($18,000)($59,547)$77,453 $27,419
2311 $0ACCRestroom Furnace ReplacementConference Center $5,500$5,500 CIP to ACC 1/5/2022$10,000 ($4,500)$0FY2022
2310 $0ADDWater Softener ReplacementMaintenance Building $13,000$13,000 CIP to ADD 1/5/2022$15,000 ($2,000)$0FY2022
2246 $38,176GLCWalk-in Cooler Condensing UnitClubhouse $2,2773652$40,453 Approval 2/10/2022$0 $0 $40,453FY2022
2356 $0RDGPro Shop Furnace ReplacementGolf Clubhouse ($3,500)($3,500)CIP to RDG 1/5/2022$0 ($3,500)$0FY2022
2355 $0RWPPool Boiler Replacements 2022 BudgeWaterpark Maintenance Building $0$0 Moved to FY2023$100,000 $0 ($100,000)FY2022
2225 $7,697SACHVAC Controls Grand HallActivity Center ($7,697)$0$0 $0 $0FY2022
2325 $0SPGHVAC Replacement - DONEMaintenance Building North $10,500$10,500 CIP to SPG 1/5/2022$15,000 ($4,500)$0FY2022
121 $4,161WLGHVAC Replacement (Component ID 5Maintenance Building $5,83917249$10,000$10,000 $0 $0FY2023
2312 $0WTRTube Heater ReplacementsPlatform Tennis Courts (2)$1,500$1,500 CIP to WTR 1/5/2022$5,000 ($3,500)$0FY2022
Building Equipment and HVAC Replacements $67,905Program or Project Group:$0 $0 $66,750 $66,750 ($1,155)
105 $67,905ADMHVAC ReplacementAdministration Building ($1,155)13639 $66,750 Eng Approval 1/5/2022$0 $0 $66,750FY2023
2436 $0GLCBrides Room HVAC Replacement (CoClubhouse $0$0$0 $0 $0FY2023
Building Roof Replacement Program $13,500Program or Project Group:$41,000 $0 ($20,500)$20,500 $7,000
2327 $0GRVRoof Replacement ShingleGroup Area 1 Pavilion $2,500$2,500 CIP to MMP$5,000 $0 ($2,500)FY2022
2328 $0GRVRoof Replacement ShingleGroup Area 10 and 11 Pavilion $3,000$3,000 CIP to MMP$6,000 $0 ($3,000)FY2022
2329 $0GRVRoof Replacement ShingleGroup Area 12 and 13 Pavilion $3,000$3,000 CIP to MMP$6,000 $0 ($3,000)FY2022
2330 $0GRVRoof Replacement ShingleGroup Area 2 and 3 Pavilion $3,000$3,000 CIP to MMP$6,000 $0 ($3,000)FY2022
2331 $0GRVRoof Replacement ShingleGroup Area 4 and 5 Pavilion $3,000$3,000 CIP to MMP$6,000 $0 ($3,000)FY2022
2332 $0GRVRoof Replacement ShingleGroup Area 6 and 7 Pavilion $3,000$3,000 CIP to MMP$6,000 $0 ($3,000)FY2022
2333 $0GRVRoof Replacement ShingleGroup Area 8 and 9 Pavilion $3,000$3,000 CIP to MMP$6,000 $0 ($3,000)FY2022
2341 $13,500WTRRoof Replacement ShingleHouse and Shed 2896 Watkins Lak ($13,500)7145 $0$0 $0 $0FY2022
Building Roof Replacements $68,473Program or Project Group:$79,000 $0 $5,864 $84,864 $16,391
1809 $53,181GLCRoof Replacement ShingleClubhouse $2,65917183$55,839 Approval 6/1/2022$42,500 $0 $13,339FY2022
161 $12,000INDRoof Replacement ShingleBoathouse ($975)7107 $11,025 Approval 6/1/2022$18,500 $0 ($7,475)FY2022
1623 $1,138INDRoof ReplacementCamp Wilderness Pavilion 1 North $4,86217092$6,000$6,000 $0 $0FY2023
1624 $1,139INDRoof ReplacementCamp Wilderness Pavilion 2 South $4,86117092$6,000$6,000 $0 $0FY2023
1058 $1,015INDRoof Replacement ShingleLakepoint Pavilion $4,985$6,000$6,000 $0 $0FY2022
Doors and Windows Replacement Program $204,700Program or Project Group:$0 $0 $0 $0 ($204,700)
28 $204,700GLCWindow and Door ReplacementClubhouse ($204,700)2854 $0$0 $0 $0FY2022
Paved Pathways Management Program $34,200Program or Project Group:$0 $0 $34,200 $34,200 $0
2194 $34,200WLGProposed newGolf Cart Paths $03647$34,200 MMP to CIP 2/10/2022$0 $0 $34,200FY2022
Roads and Parking Projects $1,287,142Program or Project Group:$1,550,500 $0 ($218,421)$1,332,079 $44,937
1980 $312,840INDPavingPark Entrance Boulevard ($79,945)3636 $232,895 Approval 5/4/2022$287,500 $0 ($54,605)FY2022
1979 $312,709INDPavingPark Entrance Road $70,6863636$383,395 Approval 5/4/2022$438,000 $0 ($54,605)FY2022
1982 $348,884INDPavingPark Road North $84,0103636$432,894 Approval 5/4/2022$487,500 $0 ($54,606)FY2022
1983 $312,709INDPavingPark Road South ($29,814)3636 $282,895 Approval 5/4/2022$337,500 $0 ($54,605)FY2022
Cancelled $896,000 ($4,500)($3,888)$887,612 $626,150 $261,462
_Projects $0Program or Project Group:$166,000 $0 $0 $166,000 $166,000
1917 $0RDPSite and Landscape Improvements ReiNature Center $0$0$0 $0 $0FY2022
1678 $0RWPExterior RenovationWaterpark Bathhouse $85,000$85,000$85,000 $0 $0FY2023
Page 3 of 4 14
Asset Name Project Name
Budget
Center Adopted Budget Expended Amt Budget Balance
Project
ID
CIP
Number
Commission
Approved
Changes Updated Budget
Internally
Approved
Changes
BUDGET BALANCE = Updated Budget
LESS Expended Amt
Budget Note
85 $0SACSiding ReplacementBarns $81,000$81,000$81,000 $0 $0FY2023
Building Equipment and HVAC Replacement Program $0Program or Project Group:$10,000 ($4,500)$0 $5,500 $5,500
2316 $0WTRBoiler Replacement (Component ID 4Paradise Peninsula Landing Buildin $5,500$5,500 CIP to WTR 1/5/2022$10,000 ($4,500)$0FY2022
Irrigation System Replacement Projects $626,150Program or Project Group:$720,000 $0 ($3,888)$716,112 $89,962
34 $493,600GLGUpgrade Phase IIGolf Course Irrigation System $3,7003605$497,300 Approved 2/10/2022$500,000 $0 ($2,700)FY2022
1179 $132,550WLGReplacements Phase IIGolf Course Irrigation System $86,2623606$218,812 Approved 2/10/2022$220,000 $0 ($1,188)FY2022
$5,666,082
Adopted Budget
Commission
Change Updated BudgetInternal Change Expended Amt Budget Balance
$10,201,673 ($14,844)($92,273)$10,094,556 $4,428,474
Page 4 of 4 15
Date
Approved Qty.
Budget
Center Item Category Budget
Actual
Expense
Projected
Expense
(Over)/Under
Budget Comments
08/30/22 1 GLG Solo Rider ADA Golf Cart EQP 14,059.00 15,059.00 (1,000.00) BA0000171,10-19-2022, SINV00138032
08/30/22 1 SPG Solo Rider ADA Golf Cart EQP 14,059.00 15,059.00 (1,000.00) BA0000172,12-31-2022,SINV00138032
08/30/22 1 WLG Solo Rider ADA Golf Cart EQP 14,059.00 15,059.00 (1,000.00) BA0000173,12-31-2022,SINV00138032
08/30/22 1 NR Skid Steer with Mulching Head EQP 130,000.00 129,350.00 650.00
Skid Steer with Mulching Head (Approved FY2022 / Delivered
FY2023),SINV00146962, ASSET ID:BA0000149(Skid Steer), ASSET
ID:BA0000150(Mulching Head).11/29/22
09/01/21 1 LYG Toro Mower EQP 68,000.00 81,083.57 (13,083.57)
Toro 4500D Mower (Approved FY2022 / Delivered FY2023),
SINV00141866, ASSET ID#BA0000114,11/2/22
09/01/21 1 RDG Toro Fairway Mower EQP 62,000.00 74,668.63 (12,668.63)
Toro Reelmster 5410D (Approved FY2022 / Delivered
FY2023),SINV00141873, BA0000112,11/2/22
09/01/21 1 SPG Greens Mower EQP 33,000.00 38,736.36 (5,736.36)
Toro Greensmaster 3150Q Mower (Approved FY2022 / Delivered
FY2023),SINV00141869, ASSET ID#BA0000113, 11/2/22
09/01/22 1 ADD Skid Steer EQP 60,000.00 51,341.33 8,658.67 BOBCAT RT-50, ASSET ID: BA0000557, SINV00202070,8/16/23
09/01/22 2 ADD (2) Light Duty Utility Vehicles EQP 18,000.00
09/01/22 1 FM Mini Skid Steer w/ Attachments EQP 55,000.00
09/01/22 1 GLG Toro 3500 EQP 40,000.00
09/01/22 1 GLG Rough Mower EQP 70,000.00
09/01/22 1 GRV Zero Turn Mower EQP 16,000.00 14,799.00 1,201.00
GRV - EXMARK LAZER Z X-SERIES ZERO TURN MOWER, ASSET
ID:BA0000162, 12/22/22 ,SINV00150668
09/01/22 1 GRV Medium Duty Utility Vehicle EQP 25,000.00
09/01/22 1 GRV Light Duty Utility Vehicle EQP 10,000.00
09/01/22 1 IND Medium Duty Utility Vehicle EQP 22,000.00
09/01/22 1 IND Tractor w/ Front Attachment EQP 70,000.00
09/01/22 1 LYG Heavy Duty Utility Vehicle EQP 30,000.00
09/01/22 2 LYG (2) Light Duty Utility Vehicles EQP 18,000.00
09/01/22 1 NR Bobcat Toolcat EQP 95,000.00
09/01/22 1 REC Trailer EQP 10,000.00 11,055.00 (1,055.00) 2023 HAUL ABOUT #LNX8520TA3, ASSET ID:BA0000454, 5/12/23,
SINV00182517
09/01/22 1 RDG Greens Mower EQP 35,000.00
09/01/22 1 SPG Greens Mower EQP 35,000.00
09/01/22 1 SPG Light Duty Utility Vehicle EQP 9,000.00
09/01/22 1 SPG Large Area Turf Sprayer EQP 42,000.00
09/01/22 1 WTR Zero Turn Mower EQP 22,000.00
09/01/22 1 WTR Light Duty Utility Vehicle EQP 10,000.00
09/01/22 1 WLG Light Duty Utility Vehicle EQP 10,000.00
09/01/22 1 WLG Surrounds Mower EQP 40,000.00
09/01/22 1 WLG Turbine Blower EQP 8,500.00
01/31/22 1 HRV Pontiac Loader EQP 40,000.00 40,000.00 -
Asset ID:BA0000272, serial #0928HLCXK00746,Resolution#2023-
2584_23-38.
Financial transfer with JE011446 in Accounting Date 03/06/202
Total 1,125,677.00 582,720.89 - (29,543.89)
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION
Capital Equipment Report
Fiscal Month 12, FY2023, as of 9/30/2023
*** Please inform Fiscal Services of any planned changes in budgeted purchases ***
96,510.00 (4,510.00)New 2023 John Deere 310G BACKHOE LOADERASSET
ID:BA0000484, 5/17/23, SINV00189919
16
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION
FY2023 Uncollectible Debt Write-offs
October 1, 2022 - September 31, 2023
Name (Last, First) OR Type of Case Number Description of Budget Transaction OC BoC Approval Month
last four digits of credit card #Debt (if credit card)Revenue Owed Center Date Date (if >$1000)Amount Written-off
XXXX9137 Credit Card CB822793539001 Waterpark entry fees RWP 10/08/22 44.00 10/22
XXXX8020 Credit Card CB722870011801 Waterpark entry fees WWP 10/14/22 40.00 10/22
XXXX8020 Credit Card CB722870011901 Waterpark entry fees WWP 10/14/2022 40.00 10/22
XXXX8020 Credit Card CB722870011701 Waterpark entry fees WWP 10/14/2022 60.00 10/22
XXXX3105 Credit Card CB722210163101 Waterpark entry fees WWP 10/31/2022 40.00 12/22
XXXX6264 Credit Card CB722560242701 Waterpark entry fees RWP 11/02/22 110.00 12/22
XXXX3106 Credit Card CB722580077601 Waterpark entry fees RWP 11/02/22 54.00 12/22
XXXX3106 Credit Card CB722580077501 Waterpark entry fees RWP 11/02/22 144.00 12/22
XXXX1421 Credit Card CB722950051001 Waterpark entry fees RWP 11/17/22 36.00 12/22
XXXX7714 Credit Card CB722730066901 Waterpark entry fees RWP 11/03/22 132.00 03/23
XXXX0976 Credit Card CB831804241201 Waterpark entry fees RWP 06/30/23 208.00 08/23
XXXX0997 Credit Card CB831814787201 Waterpark entry fees RWP 07/02/23 156.00 08/23
XXXX7330 Credit Card CB831885048801 Waterpark entry fees RWP 07/09/23 42.00 08/23
XXXX2015 Credit Card CB531890104801 Waterpark entry fees RWP 07/10/23 104.00 08/23
XXXX9198 Credit Card CB731920262901 Waterpark entry fees RWP 07/11/23 108.00 08/23
XXXX0864 Credit Card CB831904069201 Waterpark entry fees RWP 07/10/23 156.00 08/23
XXXX5645 Credit Card CB831944399501 Waterpark entry fees RWP 07/15/23 144.00 08/23
XXXX3304 Credit Card CB831933175401 Waterpark entry fees RWP 07/15/23 144.00 08/23
XXXX8333 Credit Card CB831955521501 Waterpark entry fees RWP 07/16/23 48.00 08/23
XXXX6387 Credit Card CB832074235101 Waterpark entry fees RWP 07/27/23 54.00 08/23
XXXX6736 Credit Card CB832083537101 Waterpark entry fees RWP 07/29/23 52.00 08/23
XXXX5412 Credit Card CB732120003001 Waterpark entry fees RWP 07/31/23 260.00 08/23
XXXX3715 Credit Card CB731920036901 Waterpark entry fees RWP 07/11/23 160.00 08/23
XXXX3715 Credit Card CB731930081301 Waterpark entry fees RWP 07/12/23 160.00 08/23
XXXX4002 Credit Card CB532100103501 Waterpark entry fees RWP 07/31/23 72.00 08/23
XXXX7495 Credit Card CB832113557901 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/02/23 162.00 08/23
XXXX7495 Credit Card CB832113558001 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/02/23 72.00 08/23
XXXX2804 Credit Card CB832123660801 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/03/23 144.00 08/23
XXXX8998 Credit Card CB832183085301 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/07/23 312.00 08/23
XXXX4142 Credit Card CB832204274601 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/09/23 104.00 08/23
XXXX9532 Credit Card CB832254006501 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/14/23 96.00 08/23
XXXX9532 Credit Card CB832254006401 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/14/23 48.00 08/23
XXXX0216 Credit Card CB832253408501 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/14/23 156.00 08/23
XXXX0969 Credit Card CB832253058001 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/14/23 520.00 08/23
XXXX8361 Credit Card CB832245120801 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/14/23 96.00 08/23
XXXX4001 Credit Card CB532250006001 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/15/23 650.00 08/23
XXXX9102 Credit Card CB832284082701 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/17/23 24.00 08/23
XXXX9237 Credit Card CB832283056401 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/17/23 160.00 08/23
OCPR Uncollectible Debt Write-offs FY2023 11/9/2023 10:51 PM
17
XXXX4293 Credit Card CB832293585501 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/18/23 528.00 08/23
XXXX4293 Credit Card CB832293585401 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/18/23 192.00 08/23
XXXX7935 Credit Card CB832314318001 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/20/23 260.00 08/23
XXXX7935 Credit Card CB832314317901 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/20/23 260.00 08/23
XXXX6288 Credit Card CB832314311201 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/20/23 52.00 08/23
XXXX6656 Credit Card CB832344292801 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/23/23 72.00 08/23
XXXX6656 Credit Card CB832344292701 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/23/23 48.00 08/23
XXXX2561 Credit Card CB832344285701 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/23/23 72.00 08/23
XXXX5097 Credit Card CB832384152301 Waterpark entry fees WWP 08/27/23 210.00 08/23
XXXX1525 Credit Card CB832414415701 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/30/23 120.00 08/23
XXXX0600 Credit Card CB732300118801 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/18/23 72.00 09/23
XXXX3423 Credit Card CB732330090901 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/21/23 80.00 09/23
XXXX1729 Credit Card CB832330009701 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/21/23 72.00 09/23
XXXX0606 Credit Card CB732350294301 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/23/23 162.00 09/23
XXXX9529 Credit Card CB832360062001 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/24/23 180.00 09/23
XXXX1085 Credit Card CB732370163101 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/25/23 78.00 09/23
XXXX1198 Credit Card CB732380074401 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/26/23 216.00 09/23
XXXX2822 Credit Card CB732400017401 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/28/23 144.00 09/23
XXXX4022 Credit Card CB732410032301 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/29/23 96.00 09/23
XXXX1969 Credit Card CB732430089901 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/31/23 364.00 09/23
XXXX0844 Credit Card CB732430088701 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/31/23 130.00 09/23
XXXX5342 Credit Card CB732430053201 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/31/23 130.00 09/23
XXXX6597 Credit Card CB832414594901 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/31/23 156.00 09/23
XXXX6597 Credit Card CB832414594801 Waterpark entry fees RWP 08/31/23 78.00 09/23
XXXX9757 Credit Card CB832434557301 Waterpark entry fees RWP 09/02/23 520.00 09/23
XXXX8320 Credit Card CB832493393001 Daily Entry HRV 09/08/23 30.00 09/23
XXXX2739 Credit Card CB732020194201 Waterpark entry fees RWP 09/11/23 200.00 09/23
Total 9,634.00$
Oakland County Fiscal Services Policy: If it is determined that a receivable is uncollectible, then amounts up to $1,000 may be
written off by approval of the manager of Fiscal Services. All write-offs shall be reported to the Board of Commissioners with the
quarterly forecast report. Write-offs in excess of $1,000 require Board of Commissioners’ approval.
Authorized by: ________________________________________________
OCPR Uncollectible Debt Write-offs FY2023 11/9/2023 10:51 PM
18
Date Rcpt #Fee Paid Type
10/9/2022 5097018 20.00$ General Contribution
11/4/2022 5120793 2,000.00$ Memorial Bench
11/4/2022 5120802 2,000.00$ Memorial Bench
11/4/2022 5120198 2,000.00$ Memorial Bench
11/20/2022 5124964 40.00$ General Contribution
11/21/2022 5124978 1,000.00$ Bench Plaque
11/21/2022 5124983 1,000.00$ Bench Plaque
12/2/2022 5126372 1.00$ General Contribution
12/7/2022 5126952 2.00$ General Contribution
12/12/2022 5127608 250.00$ Sensory Garden
1/3/2023 5129470 1,000.00$ Bench Plaque
1/3/2023 5129484 1.00$ General Contribution
2/13/2023 5135898 1,000.00$ Bench Plaque
2/14/2023 5136133 20.00$ General Contribution
2/23/2023 5137082 8.00$ General Contribution
3/10/2023 5138457 10.00$ General Contribution
4/5/2023 5145079 50.00$ General Contribution
4/15/2023 5159597 25.00$ General Contribution
4/21/2023 5164534 2,010.00$ Memorial Bench
4/22/2023 5165450 10.00$ General Contribution
4/22/2023 5165457 40.00$ General Contribution
4/25/2023 5167552 40.00$ General Contribution
4/26/2023 5168129 10.00$ General Contribution
5/9/2023 5186880 10.50$ General Contribution
5/11/2023 5190304 1.00$ General Contribution
5/13/2023 5195546 10.00$ General Contribution
5/17/2023 5203597 145.00$ Bench Plaque
6/10/2023 5271166 20.00$ General Contribution
6/17/2023 5290873 10.00$ General Contribution
6/22/2023 5312200 2.00$ General Contribution
7/13/2023 5438863 1.00$ General Contribution
7/31/2023 5538350 2,000.00$ Memorial Bench
7/31/2023 5538313 1,000.00$ Bench Plaque
8/8/2023 5574400 2,000.00$ Memorial Bench
8/26/2023 6013095 5.00$ General Contribution
8/28/2023 6191970 2,000.00$ Memorial Bench
9/24/2023 8282531 17.00$ General Contribution
19,758.50$ FY2023 Total
Parks and Rec. Contributions FY2024
19
R/E Fund Name Division Name
Fund #
(FND)
Cost Center
(CCN) #
Account #
(RC/SC)
Program #
(PRG)
Grant ID
(GRN) #
Budget
Fund
Affiliate
(BFA)
Ledger
Account
Summary Account Title
FY 2023
Amendment
E Parks and Recreation Planning FND50800 CCN5060104 SC730373 PRG160000 730000 Contracted Services (50,000)$
E Parks and Recreation Planning FND50800 CCN5060104 SC731213 PRG160000 730000 Membership Dues (280)
E Parks and Recreation Planning FND50800 CCN5060104 SC731339 PRG160000 730000 Periodicals Books Publ Sub (250)
E Parks and Recreation Planning FND50800 CCN5060104 SC731346 PRG160000 730000 Personal Mileage (500)
E Parks and Recreation Planning FND50800 CCN5060104 SC731388 PRG160000 730000 Printing (2,000)
E Parks and Recreation Planning FND50800 CCN5060104 SC731500 PRG160000 730000 Public Information (2,000)
E Parks and Recreation Planning FND50800 CCN5060104 SC731941 PRG160000 730000 Training (500)
E Parks and Recreation Planning FND50800 CCN5060104 SC732018 PRG160000 730000 Travel and Conference (2,500)
E Parks and Recreation Planning FND50800 CCN5060104 SC732165 PRG160000 730000 Workshops and Meeting (1,500)
E Parks and Recreation Planning FND50800 CCN5060104 SC750399 PRG160000 750000 Office Supplies (500)
E Parks and Recreation Planning FND50800 CCN5060104 SC750504 PRG160000 750000 Small Tools (5,000)
E Parks and Recreation Planning FND50800 CCN5060104 SC750581 PRG160000 750000 Uniforms (200)
E Parks and Recreation Planning FND50800 CCN5060104 SC774636 PRG160000 770000 Info Tech Operations (16,700)
E Parks and Recreation Planning FND50800 CCN5060104 SC774677 PRG160000 770000 Insurance Fund (2,000)
E Parks and Recreation Planning FND50800 CCN5060104 SC778675 PRG160000 770000 Telephone Communications (3,000)
E Parks and Recreation Adminstrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC730373 PRG160000 730000 Contracted Services 50,000
E Parks and Recreation Adminstrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC731213 PRG160000 730000 Membership Dues 280
E Parks and Recreation Adminstrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC731339 PRG160000 730000 Periodicals Books Publ Sub 250
E Parks and Recreation Adminstrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC731346 PRG160000 730000 Personal Mileage 500
E Parks and Recreation Adminstrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC731388 PRG160000 730000 Printing 2,000
E Parks and Recreation Adminstrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC731500 PRG160000 730000 Public Information 2,000
E Parks and Recreation Adminstrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC731941 PRG160000 730000 Training 500
E Parks and Recreation Adminstrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC732018 PRG160000 730000 Travel and Conference 2,500
E Parks and Recreation Adminstrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC732165 PRG160000 730000 Workshops and Meeting 1,500
E Parks and Recreation Adminstrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC750399 PRG160000 750000 Office Supplies 500
E Parks and Recreation Adminstrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC750504 PRG160000 750000 Small Tools 5,000
E Parks and Recreation Adminstrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC750581 PRG160000 750000 Uniforms 200
E Parks and Recreation Adminstrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC774636 PRG160000 770000 Info Tech Operations 16,700
E Parks and Recreation Adminstrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC774677 PRG160000 770000 Insurance Fund 2,000
E Parks and Recreation Adminstrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC778675 PRG160000 770000 Telephone Communications 3,000
Total Expenditures -$
Oakland County, Michigan
Parks and Recreation reallocation of budget FY23
Schedule "A"
WHEREAS a FY 2023 budget amendment is recommended for the Parks and Recreation to reallocate the line item budgets from CCN5060104 Planning to CCN5060101 Administrative Services. Fiscal
Years 2024-2026 will be moved during the budget process.; and
20
R/E Fund Name Division Name
Fund #
(FND)
Cost Center
(CCN) #
Account #
(RC/SC)
Program #
(PRG)
Grant ID
(GRN) #
Project ID #
(PROJ)
Region
(REG)
Budget
Fund
Affiliate
(BFA)
Ledger
Account
Summary Account Title
FY 2023
Amendment
E Parks and Recreation Marketing & Communications FND50800 CCN5060120 SC702010 PRG160000 730000 Salaries (325,758)$
E Parks and Recreation Marketing & Communications FND50800 CCN5060120 SC722740 PRG160000 730000 Fringe Benefits (156,328)
E Parks and Recreation Marketing & Communications FND50800 CCN5060120 SC730072 PRG160000 730000 Advertising (243,000)
E Parks and Recreation Marketing & Communications FND50800 CCN5060120 SC730373 PRG160000 730000 Contracted Services (133,000)
E Parks and Recreation Marketing & Communications FND50800 CCN5060120 SC731213 PRG160000 730000 Membership Dues (100)
E Parks and Recreation Marketing & Communications FND50800 CCN5060120 SC731339 PRG160000 730000 Periodicals Books Publ Sub (100)
E Parks and Recreation Marketing & Communications FND50800 CCN5060120 SC731346 PRG160000 730000 Personal Mileage (1,000)
E Parks and Recreation Marketing & Communications FND50800 CCN5060120 SC731388 PRG160000 730000 Printing (15,000)
E Parks and Recreation Marketing & Communications FND50800 CCN5060120 SC731500 PRG160000 730000 Public Information (56,000)
E Parks and Recreation Marketing & Communications FND50800 CCN5060120 SC731836 PRG160000 750000 Sponsorship (8,700)
E Parks and Recreation Marketing & Communications FND50800 CCN5060120 SC732018 PRG160000 750000 Travel and Conference (1,000)
E Parks and Recreation Marketing & Communications FND50800 CCN5060120 SC750399 PRG160000 750000 Office Supplies (500)
E Parks and Recreation Marketing & Communications FND50800 CCN5060120 SC750581 PRG160000 770000 Uniforms (200)
E Parks and Recreation Marketing & Communications FND50800 CCN5060120 SC774636 PRG160000 770000 Info Tech Operations (27,000)
E Parks and Recreation Marketing & Communications FND50800 CCN5060120 SC774677 PRG160000 770000 Insurance Fund (2,000)
E Parks and Recreation Marketing & Communications FND50800 CCN5060120 SC778675 PRG160000 730000 Telephone Communications (3,700)
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC702010 PRG160000 730000 Salaries 325,758
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC722740 PRG160000 730000 Fringe Benefits 156,328
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC730072 PRG160000 730000 Advertising 243,000
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC730373 PRG160000 730000 Contracted Services 133,000
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC731213 PRG160000 730000 Membership Dues 100
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC731339 PRG160000 730000 Periodicals Books Publ Sub 100
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC731346 PRG160000 730000 Personal Mileage 1,000
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC731388 PRG160000 730000 Printing 15,000
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC731500 PRG160000 730000 Public Information 56,000
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC731836 PRG160000 750000 Sponsorship 8,700
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC732018 PRG160000 750000 Travel and Conference 1,000
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC750399 PRG160000 750000 Office Supplies 500
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC750581 PRG160000 770000 Uniforms 200
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC774636 PRG160000 770000 Info Tech Operations 27,000
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC774677 PRG160000 770000 Insurance Fund 2,000
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC778675 PRG160000 730000 Telephone Communications 3,700
Total Expenditures -$
Oakland County, Michigan
Parks and Recreation reallocation of budget FY23
Schedule "A"
WHEREAS a FY 2023 budget amendment is recommended for Parks and Recreation to reallocate the line item budgets from CCN5060120 Marketing & Communications to CCN5060101 Administrative Services. Fiscal Years 2024-2026
will be moved during the budget process; and
21
R/E Fund Name Division Name
Fund #
(FND)
Cost Center
(CCN) #
Account #
(RC/SC)
Program #
(PRG)
Grant ID
(GRN) #
Project ID #
(PROJ)
Region
(REG)
Budget
Fund
Affiliate
(BFA)
Ledger
Account
Summary Account Title
FY 2023
Amendment
R Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 RC695500 PRG160000 695000 Transfers In 58,000$
R Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 RC610313 PRG160000 610000 Federal Operating Grants 10,364$
R Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 RD690189 PRG160000 690000 Capital Asset Contributions 80,260$
Total Revenues 148,624$
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC730037 PRG160000 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp 13,210$
E Parks and Recreation Natural Resources FND50800 CCN5060103 SC730037 PRG160431 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp 67
E Parks and Recreation Recreation Programs & Commun FND50800 CCN5060110 SC730037 PRG160700 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp 4,758
E Parks and Recreation Marketing & Communications FND50800 CCN5060120 SC730037 PRG160000 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp 2,695
E Parks and Recreation Facilities Maintenance FND50800 CCN5060146 SC730037 PRG160700 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp 69
E Parks and Recreation Addison Oaks FND50800 CCN5060150 SC730037 PRG160710 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp 2,060
E Parks and Recreation Groveland Oaks FND50800 CCN5060152 SC730037 PRG160710 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp 9,690
E Parks and Recreation Holly Oaks FND50800 CCN5060154 SC730037 PRG160700 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp 3,004
E Parks and Recreation Independence Oaks FND50800 CCN5060160 SC730037 PRG160700 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp 363
E Parks and Recreation Orion Oaks FND50800 CCN5060162 SC730037 PRG160700 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp 537
E Parks and Recreation Waterford Oaks FND50800 CCN5060164 SC730037 PRG160500 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp 83
E Parks and Recreation Waterford Oaks FND50800 CCN5060164 SC730037 PRG160700 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp 1,630
E Parks and Recreation Waterford Oaks FND50800 CCN5060164 SC730037 PRG160740 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp 363
E Parks and Recreation Glen Oaks FND50800 CCN5060172 SC730037 PRG160010 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp 1,956
E Parks and Recreation Glen Oaks FND50800 CCN5060172 SC730037 PRG160720 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp 530
E Parks and Recreation Lyon Oaks FND50800 CCN5060174 SC730037 PRG160010 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp (650)
E Parks and Recreation Lyon Oaks FND50800 CCN5060174 SC730037 PRG160720 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp 2,998
E Parks and Recreation Red Oaks FND50800 CCN5060176 SC730037 PRG160010 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp 21,306
E Parks and Recreation Red Oaks FND50800 CCN5060176 SC730037 PRG160740 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp 2,087
E Parks and Recreation Springfield Oaks FND50800 CCN5060178 SC730037 PRG160010 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp (1,101)
E Parks and Recreation Springfield Oaks FND50800 CCN5060178 SC730037 PRG160700 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp 569
E Parks and Recreation White Lake Oaks FND50800 CCN5060180 SC730037 PRG160010 730000 Adj Prior Years Exp (505)
E Parks and Recreation Waterford Oaks FND50800 CCN5060164 SC731633 PRG160700 730000 Rental Property Maintenance 13,400
E Parks and Recreation Addison Oaks FND50800 CCN5060150 SC730198 PRG160710 730000 Building Maintenance Charges 13,357
E Parks and Recreation Addison Oaks Park FND50800 CCN5060150 SC730814 PRG160720 730000 Grounds Maintenance 6,505
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC730198 PRG160000 730000 Building Maintenance Charges 15,550
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC730789 PRG160000 730000 General Program Administration 13,600
E Parks and Recreation Glen Oaks Golf FND50800 CCN5060172 SC730198 PRG160010 730000 Building Maintenance Charges 2,765
E Parks and Recreation Glen Oaks Golf FND50800 CCN5060172 SC730814 PRG160010 730000 Grounds Maintenance 18,405
E Parks and Recreation Groveland Oaks Park FND50800 CCN5060152 SC730814 PRG160710 730000 Grounds Maintenance 5,261
E Parks and Recreation Independence Oaks Park FND50800 CCN5060160 SC730198 PRG160700 730000 Building Maintenance Charges 2,300
E Parks and Recreation Lyon Oaks FND50800 CCN5060174 SC730198 PRG160700 730000 Building Maintenance Charges 10,515
E Parks and Recreation Red Oaks Park FND50800 CCN5060176 SC730198 PRG160700 730000 Building Maintenance Charges 17,325
E Parks and Recreation White Lake Oaks Conf Cent FND50800 CCN5060180 SC730198 PRG160720 730000 Building Maintenance Charges 375
E Parks and Recreation Waterford Oaks FND50800 CCN5060164 SC730814 PRG160500 730000 Grounds Maintenance 30,285
E Parks and Recreation Facilities Maintenance FND50800 CCN5060910 SC730789 PRG106430 730000 General Program Administration (136,244)
E Parks and Recreation Addison Oaks Park FND50800 CCN5060150 SC730814 PRG160720 730000 Grounds Maintenance 10,681
E Parks and Recreation Catalpa Oaks Park FND50800 CCN5060170 SC730814 PRG160700 730000 Grounds Maintenance 2,095
E Parks and Recreation Glen Oaks Golf FND50800 CCN5060172 SC730198 PRG160010 730000 Building Maintenance Charges 891
E Parks and Recreation Glen Oaks Golf FND50800 CCN5060172 SC730814 PRG160010 730000 Grounds Maintenance 1,550
E Parks and Recreation Groveland Oaks Park FND50800 CCN5060152 SC730198 PRG160710 730000 Building Maintenance Charges 183
E Parks and Recreation Groveland Oaks Park FND50800 CCN5060152 SC730814 PRG160710 730000 Grounds Maintenance 37,000
E Parks and Recreation Independence Oaks Park FND50800 CCN5060160 SC730198 PRG160700 730000 Building Maintenance Charges 2,686
E Parks and Recreation Independence Oaks Park FND50800 CCN5060160 SC730814 PRG160700 730000 Grounds Maintenance 3,122
E Parks and Recreation Red Oaks Park FND50800 CCN5060176 SC730814 PRG160700 730000 Grounds Maintenance 6,809
E Parks and Recreation PR Springfield Oaks FND50800 CCN5060178 SC730814 PRG160010 730000 Grounds Maintenance 7,800
E Parks and Recreation White Lake Oaks Golf FND50800 CCN5060180 SC730814 PRG160010 730000 Grounds Maintenance 1,027
E Parks and Recreation Waterford Oaks Park FND50800 CCN5060164 SC730814 PRG160700 730000 Grounds Maintenance 3,148
E Parks and Recreation Facilities Maintenance FND50800 CCN5060910 SC730789 PRG106430 730000 General Program Administration (76,991)
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND50800 CCN5060101 SC778675 PRG160000 796500 Budgeted Equity Adjustments 69,505
Total Expenditures 148,624$
Oakland County, Michigan
Parks and Recreation 2nd Quarter Budget Amendments
Schedule "A"
WHEREAS a FY 2023 budget amendment is recommended for Parks and Recreation reflecting operating transfer-in related to Trailways Development Agreement; unbudgeted capital contribution from the DNR for parking lot pavement at the ORV;
funds received for the Restoring Riparian Habitat and Connectivity to the Shiawassee River by Removing Mill Pond Damn project; prior year payments; Rental Property Maintenance; Waterford Oaks rental home water restoration; and allocate funds
from General Program Administration account to various parks incurring maintenance project costs during the first and second quarter of FY2023.
22
R/E Fund Name Division Name
Fund #
(FND)Cost Center (CCN) #
Account #
(RC/SC)
Program #
(PRG)
Grant ID
(GRN) #
Project
ID #
(PROJ)
Region
(REG)
Budget
Fund
Affiliate
(BFA)
Ledger
Account
Summary Account Title
FY 2023
Amendment
FY 2024
Amendment
FY 2025
Amendment
E Parks and Recreation Addison Oaks Park FND5080 CCN5060150 SC730198 PRG160720 730000 Building Maint Charges 919$ - -
E Parks and Recreation Addison Oaks FND5080 CCN5060150 SC730814 PRG160710 730000 Grounds Maint $ 12,629
E Parks and Recreation Administrative Services FND5080 CCN5060101 SC730814 PRG160000 730000 Grounds Maint $ 13,050
E Parks and Recreation Glen Oaks FND5080 CCN5060172 SC730198 PRG160010 730000 Building Maint Charges $ 9,985
E Parks and Recreation Glen Oaks FND5080 CCN5060172 SC730814 PRG160010 730000 Grounds Maint $ 13,410
E Parks and Recreation Groveland Oaks Park FND5080 CCN5060152 SC730198 PRG160710 730000 Building Maint Charges $ 1,388
E Parks and Recreation Groveland Oaks FND5080 CCN5060152 SC730814 PRG160710 730000 Grounds Maint $ 63,267
E Parks and Recreation Independence Oaks FND5080 CCN5060160 SC730198 PRG160700 730000 Building Maint Charges $ 16,535
E Parks and Recreation Independence Oaks FND5080 CCN5060160 SC730814 PRG160700 730000 Grounds Maint $ 3,400
E Parks and Recreation Orion Oaks FND5080 CCN5060162 SC730198 PRG160700 730000 Building Maint Charges $ 2,307
E Parks and Recreation Red Oaks Park FND5080 CCN5060176 SC730198 PRG160700 730000 Building Maint Charges $ 36,380
E Parks and Recreation Red Oaks Park FND5080 CCN5060176 SC730814 PRG160700 730000 Grounds Maint $ 4,603
E Parks and Recreation Waterford Oaks FND5080 CCN5060164 SC730198 PRG160700 730000 Building Maint Charges $ 59
E Parks and Recreation Waterford Oaks FND5080 CCN5060164 SC730814 PRG160700 730000 Grounds Maint $ 33,257
E Parks and Recreation Facilities Maintenance FND5080 CCN5060910 SC730789 PRG106430 730000 General Program Admin $ (211,189)
Total Expenditures -$ -$ -$
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Facilities Maintenance Quarterly Transfer Report
FY2023 THIRD QUARTER
Schedule "A" DETAIL
WHEREAS a budget amendment is recommended for Parks and Recreation for 3rd Quarter transfers; and
23
R/E Fund Name Division Name
Fund #
(FND)Cost Center (CCN) #
Account #
(RC/SC)
Program #
(PRG)
Grant ID
(GRN) #
Project
ID #
(PROJ)
Region
(REG)
Budget
Fund
Affiliate
(BFA)
Ledger
Account
Summary Account Title
FY 2023
Amendment
FY 2024
Amendment
FY 2025
Amendment
E General Fund Economic Development FND10100 CCN1090101 SC731822 PRG171000 730000 Special Projects (25,000)$ - -
E General Fund Economic Development FND10100 CCN1090101 SC788001 PRG171000 788001 Transfers Out 25,000$
Total Expendiures -$ -$ -$
E Parks and Recreation Recreation Programs & Community Services FND50800 CCN5060110 RC695500 PRG160700 695500 Transfers In 25,000$ - -
Total Revenues 25,000$ -$ -$
E Parks and Recreation Recreation Programs & Community Services FND50800 CCN5060110 SC750154 PRG160700 750000 Expendable Equipment 25,000$ - -
Total Expenditures 75,000$ -$ -$
Parks and Recreation - Special Project Sponsorship of the Rochester Fire & Ice Festival
Oakland County, Michigan
Schedule "A" DETAIL
WHEREAS a budget amendment is recommended for the Fire & Ice Festival is to help increase interest and commerce to local businesses and restaurants at a time of year that is traditionally slower and to provide opportunities for winter recreation and social activities transfer
from Economic Development to Parks and Recreation; and
24
R/E Fund Name Division Name
Fund #
(FND)Cost Center (CCN) #
Account #
(RC/SC)
Program #
(PRG)
Grant ID
(GRN) #
Project
ID #
(PROJ)
Region
(REG)
Budget
Fund
Affiliate
(BFA)
Ledger
Account
Summary Account Title
FY 2023
Amendment
FY 2024
Amendment
FY 2025
Amendment
E General Fund Board of Commissioners FND10100 CCN5010101 SC731822 PRG180010 730000 Special Projects (58,000)$ - -
E General Fund Board of Commissioners FND10100 CCN5010101 SC788001 PRG180010 780000 Transfers Out 58,000 - -
Total Expenditures -$ -$ -$
Waterford Trailways Project
Oakland County, Michigan
Schedule "A" DETAIL
WHEREAS a budget amendment is recommended to correct actuals from a Transfer In from the Board of Commisioners Special Projects to partially fund Waterford Trailways; and
25
R/E Fund Name Division Name
Fund #
(FND)Cost Center (CCN) #
Account #
(RC/SC)
Program #
(PRG)
Grant ID
(GRN) #
Project
ID #
(PROJ)
Region
(REG)
Budget
Fund
Affiliate
(BFA)
Ledger
Account
Summary Account Title
FY 2023
Amendment
FY 2024
Amendment
FY 2025
Amendment
E Parks and Recreation PR Addison Oaks
FND5080
0 CCN5060150 SC730198 PRG160710 730000 Building Maint Charges $ 13,800 -$ -$
E Parks and Recreation PR Addison Oaks
FND5080
0 CCN5060150 SC730814 PRG160710 730000 Grounds Maintenance 24,135 - -
E Parks and Recreation PR Catalpa Oaks
FND5080
0 CCN5060170 SC730198 PRG160700 730000 Building Maint Charges 15,923 - -
E Parks and Recreation PR Glen Oaks
FND5080
0 CCN5060172 SC730198 PRG160010 730000 Building Maint Charges 10,232 - -
E Parks and Recreation PR Glen Oaks
FND5080
0 CCN5060172 SC730814 PRG160010 730000 Grounds Maintenance 24,600 - -
E Parks and Recreation PR Groveland Oaks
FND5080
0 CCN5060152 SC730814 PRG160710 730000 Grounds Maintenance 2,198 - -
E Parks and Recreation PR Independence Oaks
FND5080
0 CCN5060160 SC730789 PRG160700 730000 General Program Administration 5,014 - -
E Parks and Recreation PR Lyon Oaks
FND5080
0 CCN5060174 SC730198 PRG160700 730000 Building Maint Charges 19,560 - -
E Parks and Recreation PR Orion Oaks
FND5080
0 CCN5060162 SC730814 PRG160700 730000 Grounds Maintenance 14,842 - -
E Parks and Recreation PR Red Oaks
FND5080
0 CCN5060176 SC730198 PRG160700 730000 Building Maint Charges 2,762 - -
E Parks and Recreation PR Red Oaks
FND5080
0 CCN5060176 SC730814 PRG160700 730000 Grounds Maintenance 167,439 - -
E Parks and Recreation PR Springfield Oaks
FND5080
0 CCN5060178 SC730198 PRG160700 730000 Building Maint Charges 2,376 - -
E Parks and Recreation PR Springfield Oaks
FND5080
0 CCN5060178 SC730814 PRG160700 730000 Grounds Maintenance 1,384 - -
E Parks and Recreation PR Waterford Oaks
FND5080
0 CCN5060164 SC730198 PRG160700 730000 Building Maint Charges 2,624 - -
E Parks and Recreation Facilities Maintenance
FND5080
0 CCN5060910 SC730789 PRG106430 730000 General Program Administration (306,889)- -
Total Expenditures -$ -$ -$
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Facilities Maintenance Quarterly Transfer Report
FY2023 FOURTH QUARTER
Oakland County, Michigan
Schedule "A" DETAIL
WHEREAS a budget amendment is recommended for Parks and Recreation for 4th Quarter transfers; and
26
2800 Watkins Lake Road, Waterford, MI 48328
248-858-0906 OaklandCountyParks.com
Memo
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Chris Ward
Date: January 19, 2024
Re: Director’s Report
2024 mParks Fellowship Award and Conference
The mParks Fellowship Award is presented to a member who consistently demonstrates significant
investment, support, and guidance to fellow professionals. Honorees exemplify the highest level of
professionalism in all aspects of our profession, in his or her own organization and within the membership
of mParks. Congratulations go to Jim Dunleavy on his selection for the 2024 mParks Fellowship Award.
The award will be presented at the mParks Conference & Trade Show scheduled for February 27 - March
1 at the Radisson Plaza Hotel at Kalamazoo Center. Please let us know if you are interested in attending
this year’s conference. Email or call Heather Hughes at hughesh@oakgov.com and (248) 975-9717 for
more information.
2024 Fireworks and Flannels Event Cancellation
The Commission was briefed on Fireworks & Flannels, an exciting new event that we were planning to
host at Waterford Oaks this winter. After much deliberation, a decision was made not to move forward
with this year’s event due to potential conflicts with another very popular and well publicized winter event
that would be held on the same date. We were disappointed by this temporary setback but are eager to
move forward with the event next year with the benefit of additional time to plan and build partnerships
in the community to ensure it’s a big success.
Department of Interior Phragmite Control Partnership
Two of our staff members, Kegan Schildberg and Shayne Skolnik, were recently recognized by the
Department of Interior for their support during the last two summers of a research project being
conducted to develop a new management approach for the control of the invasive species Phragmites
australis.
RETURN TO AGENDA
Turtle Woods Trust Fund Acquisition Grant Plan
We were all disappointed with the decision of the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Board in
December not to approve our grant application to fund the acquisition of the Turtle Woods property in
Troy. There is reason for optimism that our request will be successful in 2024. The owner of the property,
the Troy School District, has indicated a willingness to discount the value of the property by an additional
25%, increasing the overall local match amount to more than 50%. Our application would receive an
additional 25 points under the DNR’s scoring criteria and the maximum possible score possible for this
property. It is possible that other proposals could be submitted that would score higher due to unique
attributes (like improving recreational access to a river or lake for instance) but we will have done
everything within our control to improve the odds of success.
Entrance Sign Design/Logo Refresh
We have discussed the need to update the entrance signs at our park facilities for consistency and
improved branding consistent with our core values. Staff have worked with our marketing consultant,
Crimson, to develop a new standard sign design aesthetic. Crimson provided multiple sign design options
and have also recommended options to refresh our logo. The Executive Committee reviewed these
proposals and has narrowed the choices to a limited number of options to help us reach a decision.
Crimson is making a few changes based on their input. I will present these options at the Commission
meeting in the hope that consensus can be reached so staff can move forward with implementation.
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Upcoming Events – February 2024
Active Adults
February 6 Brandon Library - Saginaw Trail Presentation
February 19 History of Farmington's Masonic Lodge and its connections to Glen Oaks
February 21 Fireside Chat – Mary Parker, John Anderson & other Freedom Seekers
February 24 Genesee County Historical Society - Challenges of Researching the
Underground Railroad
February 29 Birmingham Next – Indigenous Connections to Oakland County Parks
Adaptive
February 13 Cupids & Cupcakes – Waterford Oaks
Mobile Recreation
February 17 Mobile Stage: OCPRC Rec Program 5K Race
Nature Education
Field Trips & Birthday Parties
February 6 Active Adult Center of Madison Heights Field Trip – Red Oaks Nature Center
February 10 Dahlia’s 3rd Birthday Party – Red Oaks Nature Center
February 10 Charlie’s 7th Birthday Party – Red Oaks Nature Center
February 17 Rosie Badge Field Trip - Red Oaks Nature Center
Homeschool Series
February 8 Astronomy: Winter Night Sky - Red Oaks Nature Center
February 14 Astronomy: Winter Night Sky – Wint Nature Center
Outreach
February 1 Gretchko Elementary School Starlab Outreach – Wint Nature Center
February 2 Gretchko Elementary School Starlab Outreach – Wint Nature Center
February 18 Outdoor Adventure Center Starlab Outreach – Red Oaks Nature Center
Public Nature Programs
February 2 Morning Munchkins – Red Oaks Nature Center
February 9 Puddle Jumpers – Wint Nature Center
February 10 DIY Pottery: Mini Succulent Garden – Wint Nature Center
February 16 Playful Yoga for Little Ones – Wint Nature Center
February 24 Maple Magic – Red Oaks Nature Center
Oakland County Market
February 10 Cooking with edibleWOW
February 14 Gleaners Food Distribution
February 24 Cooking with edibleWOW
February 28 Gleaners Food Distribution
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Upcoming Events – February 2024
Springfield Oaks
Mon-Thurs Grand Hall – Evening Pickleball
Tue, Thurs Grand Hall – Afternoon Pickleball
February 10 Grand Hall – Corn Hole Tournament
February 16-26 Carousel Hall – Early Election Polls
February 18 Clubhouse – Private Baby Shower
Special Events
February 17 PJ 5K – Waterford Oaks Park
Oakland County Sheriff’s Office
Parks Unit
2023 Year End Report
The Parks Unit provides contractual law enforcement services to all Oakland County
owned parks, golf courses, water parks, and dog parks.
• Addison Oaks
• Catalpa Oaks
• Farmers Market
• Glen Oaks
• Groveland Oaks
• Highland Oaks
• Holly Oaks
• Independence Oaks
• Lyon Oaks
• Orion Oaks
• Pontiac Oaks
• Red Oaks
• Rose Oaks
• Southfield Oaks
• Springfield Oaks
• Waterford Oaks
• White Lake Oaks
Addison Oaks and Groveland Oaks both offer onsite camping with all the amenities.
Both campgrounds offer trails, hiking, biking, swimming, and a host of activities for
families to enjoy. Catalpa Oaks has four soccer fields, a playground and walking
pathways. Catalpa Oaks is also home to the Great Marshmallow Drop, drawing more
than 5,000 participants each year. Red Oaks, Orion Oaks and Lyon Oaks all have dog
parks. Red Oaks has a nature center, trails, dog park, and a wave pool. Lyon Oaks
has a golf course, soccer fields, dog parks, and trails. Orion Oaks has a boat launch,
trails, and dog pens. Pontiac Oaks has a boat launch, trails and outside activity center,
Holly Oaks is an off-road vehicle park with challenging hills and designed courses to
navigate, Waterford Oaks has a nature center, trails, BMX track, tennis courts and a
wave pool, Glen Oaks, Springfield Oaks and While Lake Oaks are beautiful state of the
art golf courses. Springfield Oaks is home to the Oakland County 4-H Fair which has
hosted record crowds over the last three years. Independence Oaks offers 1,268 acres
of lakes, plenty of trails to explore while enjoying a breath-taking view of nature. Park
Deputies provide both a visible patrol force and police services within the parks.
Mountain Bike Patrol
The Mountain Bike Patrol is used in a wide variety of police missions within the parks.
They are used for routine patrol, community, and public relations, searching for lost
children and other related missions. The Mountain Bike Patrol has proven to be an
asset at major public events in Oakland County such as the 4 – H Fair, Antique Festival,
Marshmallow Drop, Back Road Marathon, and other details.
Deer Stand Compliance & Controlled Hunting
Park Deputies are responsible for deer stand compliance and supervising controlled
hunts throughout the County Parks. Controlled hunts did not take place in 2023. The
Park deputies search for tree stands, ground blinds and trail cameras. The deputies
ensure the blinds are recorded and are compliant with park rules and the State of
Michigan. For the hunting season 2023, (252) two hundred and fifty-two blinds were
inspected.
Deer Blind Compliance Inspections During Hunting Season 2023:
Addison Oaks (24) Deer hunting blind inspections completed.
Highland Oaks (39) Deer hunting blind inspections completed.
Independence Oaks (34) Deer hunting blind inspections completed.
Lyon Oaks (97) Deer hunting blind inspections completed.
Orion Oaks (38) Deer hunting blind inspections completed.
Rose Oaks (17) Deer hunting blind inspections completed.
Springfield Oaks (3) Deer hunting blind inspections completed.
Tree stand located near the golf course.
Waterford Oaks Large apple bait pile located near Look Out Lodge. No tree
blinds located. Bait pile removed.
Park Unit Calls for Service (CFS)
Park Deputies responded to 8739 Calls for Service during 2023.
Column10
1000
2000
3000
4000
5000
6000
7000
8000
9000
10000
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
1172 1107 1303 670 1366 1215 1136 1189 1065 851 1002
3998
6183
9515
8744 8739
Park Unit Calls for Service
Animal Complaints 41
Area Check/Extra Patrol 7055
Arrest 8
Felony 2
Misdemeanor 6
Assault & Battery 5
Assist Citizen 162
CSC Criminal Sexual Conduct 1
Disorderly Conduct 11
Dumping Complaints 3
Family Trouble 6
Found Property 13
Harassment 1
Intoxicated Persons 5
Juvenile Complaints 21
Larceny Complaints 8
Lost Child 5
Lost Property 12
MDOP Property 5
Animal Complaints, 41
Arrest /Misd, 6
Arrest / Felony, 2
Assault & Battery, 5
CSC, 1
Disordely conduct, 11
Dumping complaints, 3
Family trouble, 6
Weapon complaints, 3
Harassment, 3
Intoxicated person, 5
Juvenile Complaints, 21
Larceny Complaints, 8
Lost child, 5
Traffic accidents, 11
MDOP property, 5
Medicals, 24
Neighbor trouble, 21
Noise complaints, 18
Susp circumstances, 30
Traffic complaints, 35
Animal Complaints
Arrest /Misd
Arrest / Felony
Assault & Battery
CSC
Disordely conduct
Dumping…
Family trouble
Weapon complaints
Harassment
Intoxicated person
Juvenile Complaints
Larceny Complaints
Lost child
Traffic accidents
MDOP property
Medicals
Neighbor trouble
Noise complaints
Susp circumstances
Traffic complaints
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45
Calls for Service 8739
Medical Assist 24
Neighbor Trouble 21
Noise Complaints 18
Open Buildings 9
Parking Complaints 9
Park Rule Violations 8
Public Relations 52
Signal X (Bank Deposits) 51
Suspicious Circumstance 30
Traffic Accidents 11
Traffic Complaints 36
Trespass 2
Weapon Complaints 3
Weather Emergency 1
Welfare Check 8
Vehicle Lockouts 14
Addison Oaks
CFS – Calls for service (2028)
(1) Animal complaint.
(31) Assist citizens.
(1936) Area checks / Extra Patrol.
(1) Domestic assault – Arrest
(1) Found property.
(1) Home invasion – Arrest.
(1) Larceny.
(1) MDOP – Malicious destruction of property.
(8) Medicals.
(2) Neighbor trouble.
(8) Noise complaints.
(7) Suspicious circumstances.
(1) Traffic accidents.
(20) Traffic complaints.
(1) UDAA – Stolen vehicle – Arrest
(8) Vehicle lockouts.
(1) Welfare check.
Catalpa Oaks
CFS – Calls for service (28)
(28) Area check / Extra patrol.
Glen Oaks
CFS – Calls for service (4)
(2) Area check / Extra patrol
(2) Dumping complaints.
Groveland Oaks
CFS – Calls for service (919)
(23) Animal complaint.
(1) Assault and battery.
(78) Assist citizens.
(631) Area checks / Extra Patrol.
(1) Civil matter.
(3) Disorderly conduct – Arrest.
(1) Family trouble.
(1) Fireworks complaint.
(2) Follow up investigations.
(7) Found property.
(18) Juvenile complaints.
(1) Larceny.
(1) Leud & lascivious conduct – Sex in public bathrooms.
(8) Lost property.
(1) MDOP – Malicious destruction of property.
(3) Medicals.
(16) Neighbor trouble.
(10) Noise complaints.
(9) Open buildings.
(8) Park rules & Regulations violations.
(52) Public relations.
(14) Suspicious circumstances.
(2) Traffic accidents.
(12) Traffic complaints.
(5) Traffic offenses.
(1) Traffic / Road hazard.
(1) Trespassing.
(1) UDAA – Stolen vehicle – Arrest
(2) Vehicle lockouts.
(2) Weapons complaints.
(1) Weather emergency.
(5) Welfare check.
Highland Oaks
CFS – Calls for service (66)
(2) Animal complaints.
(63) Area checks / Extra patrol.
(1) MDOP – Malicious destruction of property.
Holly Oaks
CFS – Calls for service (385)
(14) Assist citizens.
(359) Area checks / Extra patrol.
(1) Found property.
(1) Lost property.
(1) MDOP – Malicious destruction of property.
(4) Public relations.
(1) Suspicious circumstances.
(1) Traffic accident
(2) Traffic complaints.
(1) Vehicle alarm.
Lyon Oaks
CFS – Calls for service (154)
(146) Area checks / Extra patrol.
(2) Disorderly person.
(1) Harassing communications.
(2) Larceny from a vehicle.
(1) Larceny of a trail camera.
(1) Neighbor trouble.
(1) Welfare check.
Orion Oaks
CFS- Calls for service (565)
(5) Animal complaints.
(547) Area check / Extra patrol.
(2) Assault and Battery – Arrest.
(3) Assist citizen.
(1) Found property.
(3) Larceny from vehicle.
(1) Medical.
(5) Parking complaints.
(2) Traffic accidents.
(1) Vehicle lockout.
Pontiac Oaks
CFS – Calls for service (33)
(31) Area checks / Extra patrols.
(1) Lost property.
(1) Traffic complaint.
Red Oaks
CFS – Calls for service (906)
(5) Animal complaint.
(26) Assist citizens.
(813) Area checks / Extra Patrol.
(1) (CSC) Criminal sexual conduct #4.
(4) Family trouble.
(2) Found property.
(2) Juvenile complaints.
(1) Lost property.
(1) Medicals.
(3) Neighbor trouble.
(38) Signal X – Money drop.
(3) Suspicious circumstances.
(3) Traffic complaints.
(1) Trespassing.
(3) Vehicle lockouts.
Rose Oaks
CFS – Calls for service (66)
(2) Animal complaints
(62) Area checks / Extra patrols.
(1) Dumping complaint.
(1) Welfare check.
Springfield Oaks
CFS – Calls for service (272)
(2) Animal complaint.
(1) Assault and battery.
(6) Assist citizens.
(221) Area checks / Extra Patrol.
(1) Disorderly conduct – Arrest.
(1) Family trouble.
(5) Intoxicated persons.
(1) Juvenile complaint.
(5) Lost child / Missing person
(1) Lost property.
(10) Medicals.
(2) Parking complaint.
(2) Signal X – Money drop.
(3) Suspicious circumstances.
(5) Traffic accidents.
(6) Vehicle lockouts.
Waterford Oaks
CFS – Calls for service (2186)
(1) Animal complaint.
(1) Assault weapon – Felony – Arrest.
(4) Assist citizens.
(2) Assist motorist.
(2156) Area checks / Extra Patrol.
(1) Employee trouble.
(1) Escape Children Village – Two arrested.
(1) Found property.
(1) MDOP – Malicious destruction of property.
(1) Medicals.
(4) Parking complaint.
(11) Signal X – Money drop.
(2) Suspicious circumstances.
White Lake Oaks
CFS – Calls for service (59)
(58) Area check / Extra patrol.
(1) Civil matter.
Park Unit Reports (CR’s) Written
Park Deputies authored 74 reports during 2023.
Park Unit Special Details
The Park Unit was tasked with special details, in addition to providing police services to
the many parks we patrol.
The 4-H Oakland County Fair is held at Springfield Oaks and was founded by the
Milford Agricultural Society in the 1880's. It was an annual event that was held until
World War II in 1940. The Fair returned as an annual event again in 1945. As society
has grown and changed so has the role of the Fair. While the Fair has remained a
source of community it now serves as an educational opportunity, a connection with
agriculture and family friendly entertainment. The mission of the Oakland County Fair is
to provide a public educational showcase of our youth through hands-on experience
Column10
50
100
150
200
250
2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
244
205
120 100
69 65
91 87
123 102 112 121 120
60
105 97
74
Park Unit Written Reports
with exhibits, demonstrations, and presentations as young people develop life skills in a
family atmosphere. In 2023, there were several Calls for Service including medical
emergencies, assist citizens and several lost/found child incidents, but no major
significant Calls for Service to note. The Sheriff Office Parks Division provides between
12 to 15 deputies daily for the event. The event lasted ten days and has been heavily
attended with record attendance the last three years.
The Michigan Antique Festival is a two-day event held at Springfield Oaks Park in the
spring and fall each year. The festival features unique displays of vintage items, high
end antiques, and a huge classic car show. Food and beverages are also served during
the event. The Sheriff Office Parks Division provides two deputies for the event. Both
events were heavily attended with record setting numbers.
The Back Roads Half Marathon is a one-day event held at Independence Oaks Park.
The event is a 5K & 10K marathon with approximately 500 participants. Following the
event is a post-race celebration with live music, food, and beverages. The Sheriff Office
Parks Division provides five deputies for the event.
The Detroit 4Fest is a two-day event held at the Holly Oaks ORV Park. The event
features 4 wheel off roading, with trails to explore, hills to climb, rock courses to test
your skills, and acres of area to enjoy driving your off-road vehicle. The event also
features food trucks, beverages, venders, shopping, and off-road driving training. The
Sheriff Office Parks Division provides two deputies for the event.
The De Ronde van Grampian Gravel Race is a one-day event held at Addison Oaks
Park. The event is a 25/50-mile gravel bike race. The event also features food,
beverages, venders, shopping, and mechanical support. The Sheriff Office Parks
Division provides two deputies for the event.
Park Unit Training
Park deputies participated in the following training in 2023, which included:
• Sheriff’s Office In-Service Training (8-hour training twice per year)
• Mandatory on-line training
• Monthly Firearm/Weapons Training & Qualification
• Park Unit Meetings
• Park Unit Training
Holly ORV Park
The 106-acre Holly Oaks ORV Park opened Sept. 17, 2020. The Park is a joint State-
County project, operated by Oakland County Parks and Recreation in partnership with
the Michigan Department of Natural Resources via a 20-year operating agreement (with
a 10-year renewal). The Park, consisting of former and active sand and gravel mines, is
located off I-75 (at Grange Hall) and Dixie Highway across from Groveland Oaks
County Park and Campground. Holly Oaks is open to all types of ORVs, including full-
size vehicles, side-by-side, all-terrain vehicles, and motorcycles.
Command Summary
To recap 2023, the success of the Park Unit is a direct reflection of the daily hard work
and dedication by every deputy and command officer within the unit. 2023 presented
new challenges due to a reduction in staff. We lost one full time deputy position and had
a sergeant position reduced to a part time position. We had to continually adjust work
schedules and at times we were unable to fill all our contracted positions. Park’s
deputies adapted well to these challenges while continuing to provide service at a high
level. Their continued dedication to duty, professionalism, teamwork, and expertise is
greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Lieutenant Brent Miles