HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgendas/Packets - 2025.06.04 - 42089Call Meeting to Order
Roll Call
Pledge of Allegiance
Approval of Agenda
Public Comment
PRESENTATIONS/RECOGNITIONS:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
A Four Season Strategy Recommendations Informational Chris Ward / 858-4944
B Environmental Sustainability Update Informational Sarah Cook-Maylen / 343-1353
C Communications and Marketing 2024 Review Informational Desiree Stanfield / 705-4108
D Adaptive and Wellness Review Informational Sandy Dorey / 343-6287
COMMUNICATIONS/REPORTS:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
E FY2025 Monthly Financial Report Informational Kevin Syoen / 909-8764
F Community Grant Projects Update Informational Donna Folland / 736-9087
G Healthy Communities Projects Update Informational Donna Folland / 736-9087
REGULAR AGENDA:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
1 Water Safety and Swim Lesson Partnership MOU Approval & Fwd to BOC Erik Koppin / 909-7702
2 Purchase Agreement for 649, 675 and 677 W. Walton Blvd. at
Pontiac Oaks
Approval & Fwd to BOC Melissa Prowse / 249-2801
3 Recognizing July 2025 as Park and Recreation Month Approval Chris Ward / 858-4944
4 Creation of Deputy Director Position Approval & Fwd to BOC Chris Ward / 858-4944
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
NEW & MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
5 Director's Report Informational Chris Ward / 858-4944
6 Executive Committee Update Informational Ebony Bagley / 497-7991
CLOSED SESSION:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
7 Pursuant to MCL 15.268(d) - Discussion to consider the
purchase or lease of real property
Informational Melissa Prowse / 249-2801
ANNOUNCEMENTS
ADJOURNMENT TO: July 16, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. or to the Call of the Chair
Approval of Minutes - May 7, 2025 Regular Meeting & May 7, 2025 Closed Session
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
Ebony Bagley, Chair
Wednesday, June 4, 2025 @ 2:00 pm
Parks Commission Room - 2800 Watkins Lake Rd, Waterford, MI 48328
Regular Monthly Meeting Agenda
May 7, 2025
Chair Bagley called the meeting of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission to order at
2:03 p.m. in the Parks Commission Room.
COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT:
Ebony Bagley, J. David VanderVeen, Andrea LaFontaine, Lola Banks, Ann Erickson Gault, Christine
Long, Jim Nash, Nancy Quarles, Yolanda Smith Charles, Shanell Weatherspoon
COMMISSION MEMBERS ABSENT WITH NOTICE:
None.
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
Bill Singleton, Chief – Business Operations
Brandy Sotke-Boyd, Chief – Recreation, Programs & Services
Desiree Stanfield, Chief – Marketing & Communications
Darryn Horvath, Project Manager Engineer
Zach Zuchowicz, DEI & Community Engagement Coordinator
Alan Jaros, Project Advisor (Director of Bowers School Farm &
Johnson Nature Center)
Stephanie Mackey, Supervisor – Organizational & Employee Dev.
Liz Caltagirone, Parks Data Analyst
Jami Monte, Staff Assistant
FISCAL SERVICES Kevin Syoen, P&R Fiscal Coordinator
SIX RIVERS LAND CONSERVANCY Chris Bunch, Executive Director
PUBLIC Roman Wasylkevych, Waterford Community Greenways
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Long moved to approve the agenda, as presented. Seconded by VanderVeen.
Motion carried unanimously on a voice vote with Nash and Smith Charles absent.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Erickson Gault moved to approve the April 2, 2025 Regular meeting minutes and the April 2,
2025 Closed Session minutes, as presented. Seconded by Banks.
OAKLAND COUNTY
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
2800 WATKINS LAKE ROAD, WATERFORD, MICHIGAN 48328
Telephone: (248) 858-0906
REGULAR MEETING
Ebony Bagley, Chair J. David VanderVeen
Vice Chair
Andrea LaFontaine
Secretary
Lola Banks
Ann Erickson Gault
Christine Long
Jim Nash
Nancy Quarles
Yolanda Smith Charles
Shanell Weatherspoon
RETURN TO AGENDA
May 7, 2025 Page 2
Motion carried unanimously on a voice vote with Smith Charles absent.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
PRESENTATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
A. Natural Resources and Environment 2024 Review
Ms. Cook-Maylen provided an overview of the 2024 Natural Resources and Environment efforts.
B. Education and Nature Discovery Programming Strategy
Mr. Jaros provided an overview of the Education and Nature Discovery Programming Strategy.
COMMUNICATIONS/REPORTS
C. FY2025 Monthly Financial Report
Mr. Syoen provided an overview of the FY2025 monthly financial report.
REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS
1. Pontiac Oaks Park Action Plan Amendment
Nash moved to preliminarily approve the Pontiac Oaks Park Action Plan Amendment and
authorize staff to complete the plan in compliance with the Interlocal Partnership Agreement
dated February 14, 2025, and submit the Final Amendment to the School District of the City of
Pontiac Representative for approval. Seconded by Weatherspoon.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
2. BOC Healthy Communities Project – Catalpa Oaks
Smith Charles moved to approve expenditure not to exceed $1,100,400 to add renovation of two
soccer fields and the addition of a fitness court (contingent upon a minimum grant of $30,000) to
BOC Healthy Communities Project – Catalpa Oaks. Seconded by Weatherspoon.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
3. Oakland County Farmers Market Location
Erickson Gault moved to request that the Board of Commissioners take action to add the
operation of a farmers market as an authorized use of the 105-acre property transferred to
Oakland County Parks management, commonly known as Bicentennial Oaks. Seconded by
Weatherspoon.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
4. Proposed FY 2026-2028 Budget Review
Quarles moved to preliminarily approve and forward to the County Executive the FY 2026-2028
Budget Plan for Oakland County Parks and Recreation, including the FY 2026-2028 Operating
Budget, FY 2026 Capital Improvement Plan, and FY 2026 Capital Equipment Plan, as presented.
Seconded by Smith Charles.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
May 7, 2025 Page 3
5. Interlocal Agreement with the City of Farmington Hills for Heritage Park
Nash moved to recommend to the Board of Commissioners approval of the Interlocal Partnership
Agreement with the City of Farmington Hills for Heritage Park and authorize the Director to
finalize the terms of the agreement in consultation with Corporation Counsel. Seconded by Smith
Charles.
Motion carried on a roll call vote with Long voting no.
6. Interlocal Agreement with the City of Rochester Hills for Bloomer Park
LaFontaine moved to recommend to the Board of Commissioners approval of the Interlocal
Partnership Agreement with the City of Rochester Hills for Bloomer Park and authorize the
Director to finalize the terms of the agreement in consultation with Corporation
Counsel. Seconded by Erickson Gault.
Motion carried on a roll call vote with Long voting no.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
NEW & MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS
7. Director & Mission 26 Status Report
Director Ward provided an overview of his report.
8. Executive Committee Update
Chair Bagley stated that there is no further update outside of what was discussed today.
CLOSED SESSION
9. Pursuant to MCL 15.268(d) – Discussion to consider the purchase or lease of real property
Smith Charles moved that the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission enter into
Closed Session for the purposes of discussion to consider the purchase or lease of real property.
Seconded by Erickson Gault.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
The Commission went into Closed Session at 4:21 p.m.
The Commission reconvened in Open Session at 5:47 p.m.
VanderVeen moved to direct staff to proceed as discussed in Closed Session. Seconded by
LaFontaine.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
ANNOUNCEMENTS/ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner Smith Charles stated that she requested a report from the Visit Oakland County Survey
to be shared with the Parks Commission.
May 7, 2025 Page 4
Commissioner Nash invited Commissions to come out to the Art, Fish, Fun event at Beaudette Park on
June 7th from 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
At 5:49 p.m., there being no further business to come before the Commission, the meeting was
adjourned to June 4, 2025, or to the Call of the Chair.
Andrea LaFontaine, OCPRC Secretary Jami Monte, Recording Secretary
NOTE: The foregoing minutes are subject to Commission approval.
Communications & Marketing
FY 2024 Report
14551 Shields Rd, Holly, MI 48442
2024 mParks Integrated Marketing Communications Award
RETURN TO AGENDA
2024 Overview
• In FY2024, the Communications and Marketing Unit facilitated 280,278 total contacts with an estimated reach of 17,466,769
to promote OCP. A strong social media presence with boosted events, robust website content, news releases to media and
e-marketing messages continue to be the top ways OCP is promoted. This is augmented with paid advertising in key areas such
as campground publications (MARVAC and Camp Michigan), community recreation booklets for nature centers, and Michigan
Trails Magazine for trails. The Farmers Market is featured in edibleWOW Magazine and Taste the Local Difference Directory.
• Digital campaigns focused on promoting the golf courses, hiring needs, campgrounds, county market, and special events.
• Digital advertising includes OaklandCountyMoms.com for nature education and Recreation Programs and Services programs
and events. Wedding Pro ads are used to promote the Ellis Barn and Lyon Oaks, Springfield and White Lake Oaks event centers.
Combined impressions for these rental spaces was 43,005 impressions and 5,260 visitors to the OCP website.
• Holly Oaks ORV Park is advertised in a statewide publication.
2
Media Relations
• The Communications and Marketing Unit wrote and sent press releases to media sources. The broadcast reach was 9.4 million with
an earned media value of $132,666.
• TV coverage included seasonal jobs, Marshmallow Drop, millage ballot question, National BMX Race, Naturalization Ceremony
and Waterford Oaks Wave Pool on pause.
• Radio segments focused on National BMX Race, free swim lessons, millage ballot question and millage passed by voters.
• Staff wrote 23 Oakland County Blogs which had 8,827 pageviews. Topics include winter bird watching, Lyon Oaks improvements,
millage ballot question, canning and Addison Oaks Solar System Trail.
Pure Michigan Sign Program
• OCP participated in this highway sign program - the blue and white signs direct travelers to gas stations, hotels, restaurants and
recreation destinations.
• Four OCP facilities participate - Addison Oaks Campground, Groveland Oaks Campground, Holly Oaks ORV Park and Oakland
County Farmers Market.
• A combined traffic count for the locations was 170,335 vehicles a day for a total of 62.2 million motorists passing the signs in 2024.
FY 2022-2024
Marketing Activity
PAID MEDIA: Relates to advertising using traditional or other outlets.
OCPR tracks the reach and value of paid media that has reliable data
available – print, radio, television and digital.
OWNED MEDIA: Relates to the brand and content generated by outlets
controls. OCPR tracks the reach of owned media that has reliable data
available – email marketing, social media posts and press releases.
The broader definition of owned media also includes visual displays,
brochures, website and blogs.
EARNED BROADCAST MEDIA: Generated by other entities such as
journalists. OCPR tracks the reach and value of broadcast earned media.
E-MARKETING: 234,753 subscriptions; the average person has five
topics to which they subscribe.
TOTAL CONTACTS: This figure was calculated by adding the
following components: Number of print ads; Number of digital ads;
Number of e-messages; Number of e-marketing subscriptions; Number
of Facebook posts; Parks and Recreation Facebook ‘likes’; X Followers;
Instagram Followers; and Press Releases.
TOTAL ESTIMATED REACH: This figure is the summation of the
following: Print advertising estimated circulation; Digital estimated
impressions; Oakland County Blog views; Email Marketing estimated
reach; Boosted Facebook posts estimated reach; and Broadcast media
earned estimated reach.
SOCIAL MEDIA: Oakland County Parks has a strong presence on
social media in order to actively engage with existing and potential park
patrons. This is done with postings that pertain to programming as well
as topical information and updates that promote OCP Core Values. This
service is complemented by active social listening and general customer
service via responses to user post comments and direct messages.
In 2024, Oakland County Parks moved forward with its OCPR
Commission-approved plan to consolidate its 26 Facebook pages into
nine pages, organized by interest. Those pages are: OCP Campgrounds,
OCP Dog Parks, OCP Event Centers, OCP Aquatics, OCP Golf,
Oakland County Farmers Market, Holly Oaks ORV Park, OCP Natural
Resources and Nature Centers and Oakland County Parks (Main page).
The Oakland County Department of Public Communications has
assisted in this endeavor, working with Meta to implement a never-
before-tried “storefront” format that would allow OCP Social Media
management to more efficiently create and publish content to multiple
channels.
A boosted post is a paid advertisement that is targeted to the audience
of our choice. Our Facebook boosted posts reach a very large audience,
showing the impact we can have with a modest investment.
Paid Media 2022 2023 2024
Print Advertising
Number of Print Ads 27 31 65
Estimated Circulation 1,375,504 1,878,336 2,746,255
Investment $38,338 $25,176 $43,227
Digital
Number of digital ads 61 124 44
Estimated Impressions 11,480,331 4,795,562 2,997,627
Investment $79,774 $88,701 $15,557
Oakland County Blog
Number of blogs 7 7 23
Estimated views 1,452 961 8,827
Below is a snapshot of the print, digital, e-marketing, social media and other
high-level activity.
In FY2024, the Communications and Marketing Unit facilitated 280,278
total contacts with an estimated reach of 17,466,769 to promote OCP.
Owned Media 2022 2023 2024
Total Website Views 1,378,524 939,328 1,095,920
Email Marketing
Number of e-messages 281 181 158
Estimated reach 2,501,505 1,580,541 1,388,877
E-marketing subscriptions 189,001 216,518 234,753
Social Media
Number of Facebook posts 475 573 642
Estimated Reach 928,610 2,782,539 2,016,166
Boosted Post estimated reach 447,231 133,469 893,451
Primary Facebook Page ‘likes’20,178 30,128 32,428
X Followers 6,934 6,864 6,694
Instagram Followers 3,204 4,634 5,460
Press Releases
Published 51 51 34
Broadcast Media
Earned Estimated reach 2,665,512 9,892,678 9,411.732
Value $94,497 $43,049 $132,666
TOTALS
Total Contacts 200,034 259,104 280,278
Total Estimated Reach 18,404,571 18,280,887 17,466,769
3
Digital Analytics for FY2024
4
E-marketing (10/1/23-9/30/24)
Number of e-marketing messages sent: 158
Estimated reach: 1,388,877
E-marketing subscriptions: 234,753
News releases (10/1/23-9/30/24)
Number of news releases messages sent: 34
Website
Top 10 webpage views 10/1/23 through 9/30/24
Addison Oaks Solar System Trail, Leonard Lyon Oaks playground & pickleball courts, Wixom
Grand Openings
5
Mack-Rowe Playground, Royal Oak
Green Acres Playground, Hazel Park
Media Clips for FY2024
6
7
Fund Balance
Adopted Amended Actual Favorability/UNF Percentage
$40,794,204.00 $41,949,404.00 $52,634,405.18 $10,685,001.18 125.47%
$40,794,204.00 $41,949,404.00 $21,342,925.00 $20,606,479.00 50.88%
Adopted Amended Actual Favorability/UNF Percentage
$6,038,080.00 $6,038,080.00 $873,693.67 $5,164,386.33 14.47%
$6,425,949.00 $6,425,949.00 $3,326,925.10 $3,099,023.90 51.77%
Adopted Amended Actual Favorability/UNF Percentage
$1,881,414.00 $1,881,414.00 $0.00 $1,881,414.00 0.00%
$2,827,192.00 $2,827,192.00 $657,795.56 $2,169,396.44 23.27%
Adopted Amended Actual Favorability/UNF Percentage
$2,372,877.00 $2,372,877.00 $998,838.76 $1,374,038.24 39.64%
$3,872,472.00 $3,872,472.00 $1,826,243.31 $2,046,228.69 47.16%
Adopted Amended Actual Favorability/UNF Percentage
$350,000.00 $605,200.00 $99,872.24 $505,327.76 16.44%
$431,965.00 $431,965.00 $175,581.24 $256,383.76 40.65%
Awarded Amount Paid Out
$2,470,216.00 $1,195,500.00
$968,016.73
Expenses
Amount Remaining
$1,274,716.00
$1,660,719.72
FY 2024
FY 2025 YTD
The County strategy is to invest in longer term Agencies and Treasuries. Before the
unprecedented rise in short term rates this strategy consistently outpreformed the short term
investments (CDs and High Yeild Savings accounts). The quick rise in rates has led to current
Pool yeild lagging behind short term rates.
FY 2022 - 2025 YTD
Expenses
Investment Income
Summary of Community Grant Program
Parks and Recreation
Summary of Waterpark Programs
Summary of Golf Programs
FY 2024 YTD
Revenue
Expenses
Summary of Parks and Recreation
FY 2024 YTD
Revenue
Expenses
As of 9/30/2024 Current 4/30/2025
$31,918,234.31 $62,709,015.50
Revenue
Expenses
*Waterford Oaks Waterpark budget will be amended in Q2 Forecast.
FY 2024 YTD
Expenses
Summary of Campground Programs
Summary of ORV Park Operations
FY 2024 YTD
Revenue
FY 2024 YTD
Revenue
RETURN TO AGENDA
1
June 4, 2025 – Update
Oakland County Parks and
Recreation Commission
Community
Grant Programs
RETURN TO AGENDA
2
Summary
Oakland County Parks is committed to finding innovative ways to partner with local cities, villages and townships
(CVTs) to provide improved recreation opportunities in Oakland County. Leveraging millage funding, OCP
created the Community Grant Program to assist Oakland County municipalities with planning, preliminary
engineering/design and construction costs directly related to local park improvement and trail projects.
2022 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant Program
$1.1 M in grants to Oakland County CVTs to support local park and trail projects in the following communities:
° Auburn Hills Hawk Woods Nature Themed Playground - $100,000 (Closed)
° Birmingham Adams Park Development - $100,000 (Closed)
° Commerce Township Trailhead/Non-Motorized Trail Connect - $152,000 (Closed)
° Farmington Shiawassee Park Playscape Fence Replacement - $30,000 (Closed)
° Ferndale Wilson Park Accessibility Development - $100,000 (Closed)
° Hazel Park Bob Welch Baseball Field Modernization Project - $46,000 (Closed)
° Leonard Nature Park Development Planning - $22,800 (Closed)
° Novi Northwest Park Development - $100,000 (Closed)
° Oxford Farmers Market - $100,000 (Closed)
° Pontiac Mattie McKinney Hatchett Park Redevelopment - $100,000 (In Process)
° Rochester Paint Creek Trail Bridge 31.7 Design Engineering - $25,000 (In Process)
° Royal Oak Enhancing Access to the Royal Oak Arboretum - $71,250 (Complete)
° South Lyon Downtown South Lyon Park - $100,000 (In Process)
° West Bloomfield Trail/Nature Preserve Restroom - $100,000 (Closed)
2023 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant Program
$608,166 in grants to Oakland County CVTs to support local park and trail projects in the following communities:
° Beverly Hills Beverly Park Playground Restoration - $100,000 (In Process)
° Birmingham Trail Improvements to Booth Park Section of the Rouge River Trail Corridor - $25,000 (In Process)
° Commerce Township Bicentennial Park Renovations - $100,000 (Complete)
° Farmington Dinan Pocket Park - $100,000 (Closed)
° Ferndale Martin Road Park Revitalization Project - $64,000 (In Process)
° Leonard Polly Ann Trail Modernization and Safety Improvements - $25,000 (In Process)
° Madison Heights Basketball Court Replacement at Civic Center Park - $22,500 (Closed)
° Oakland Township Gallagher Trail - $63,750 (In Process)
° Orion Township Civic Center Sand Playground Phase 1 - $7,916 (Closed)
° Royal Oak Hamer Finch Wilkins Park - $50,000 (Complete)
° Southfield Lahser Woods Park Improvement Project Phase 1: Dog Park - $50,000 (In Process)
2024 Strategic Partnerships Grant Program
$565,000 in grants to support the following projects:
° Nine Mile Corridor Pathway Plan Development and Branding (Multijurisdictional)- $125,000 (Complete)
° Mill Pond Dam Recreation Improvements in Springfield Township- $115,000 (In Process)
° Innovation Hills Restrooms in Rochester Hills - $250,000 (In Process)
° Rosie’s Park Pickleball Courts in Madison Heights - $75,000 (Complete)
2025 Strategic Partnerships Grant Program
$200,000 grant to support the following project:
° Farmington Fitness Courts - $200,000 (In Process)
Project Status Key
In Process
Fully executed agreement in
place and project is underway.
Completed
Project work is complete and
CVT is completing grant close
out process.
Closed
Project work and grant close out
process are complete.
On Hold
Project is open but paused.
3
Auburn Hills
Hawk Woods Nature Themed Playground
2022 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Project Scope
The completed project included installing new playground equipment, a concrete accessible ramp and wood
fiber safety surfacing.
Status - Closed
4
Beverly Hills
Beverly Park Playground & Surface Renovation
2023 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Figure: Beverly Hills Park design rendering.
Project Scope
Renovate the Beverly Park playground to allow people of all abilities to enjoy outdoor recreation more fully at
the park. The new playground will offer unique play experiences with sensory play panels, bridges, slides,
climbers and ground level musical instruments. Additionally, the plan includes resurfacing the entire area to
increase ease of movement for all visitors. The playground designer and equipment manufacturer were both
selected based on their experience in planning accessible playgrounds.
Status – In Process
The Village of Beverly Hills was awarded a Spark Grant through DNR, which required several additional steps to
meet program guidelines. Plan specifications are now complete and are currently being reviewed by DNR. Once
approved – the project will be sent out to bid. Playground installation is anticipated to begin at the end of June
2025.
5
Birmingham
Adams Park Development
2022 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Project Scope
The completed project included installing a new play area, basketball court, garden seating plaza, landscaping
and trees, and a reserved large grassy area for a soccer field and space for track and field activities.
Status – Closed
6
Birmingham (continued)
Trail Improvements to Booth Park Section
2023 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Figure: Booth Park preliminary design landscape plan.
Project Scope
Develop the Booth Park corner feature/entry plaza and implement trail improvements at Booth Park, which is
the trailhead for the Rouge Trail.
Status – In Process
The City of Birmingham’s consultant – Grissim, Metz, Andriese Associates – was selected for design work in late
March 2024. Designs are 95% complete and City is preparing to bid out the project. The anticipated date of
completion is June 30, 2025.
7
Commerce Township
Trailhead/Trail Connect – 14 Mile to Metro Trail
2022 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Project Scope
The completed project included resurfacing the existing lot at Robert H. Long Nature Park and a new paved
pathway along the north side of 14 Mile Road connecting to MDOT’s Metro Trail, as well as new landscaping,
trees and green infrastructure.
Status – Closed
Bicentennial Park Renovations
2023 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Project Scope
The completed project included installing a 6-8’ wide asphalt pathway connecting the existing path in Glengary
Hills subdivision to the existing path at Bicentennial Park. It also included renovating the two existing/unusable
tennis courts – creating a pickleball court – renovating and expanding the basketball court and resurfacing the
existing parking lot. The parking lot was restriped to include two van accessible parking spots, and a 6-foot-wide
accessible pathway was constructed to connect the parking area to the courts.
Status – Complete
8
Farmington
Shiawassee Park Playscape Fence Replacement
2022 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Project Scope
The completed project replaced a 20+ year old wooden fence with new aluminum fencing, providing a sturdier,
lower-maintenance safety feature between playscape and the Rouge River.
Status - Closed
Dinan Pocket Park
2023 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Project Scope
The completed project created an inviting, accessible social gathering space for all. The new pocket park uses
environmentally friendly, low-maintenance materials and furniture, and features barrier-free conditions,
multiple seating options, trees, plants, string lights and natural gas firepits.
Status – Closed
9
Farmington (continued)
Fitness Courts at Shiawassee Park and Flanders Park
2025 Strategic Partnerships Grant
Aerial photos of Shiawassee Park (left) and Flanders Park (right).
Project Scope
Install new fitness courts at Shiawassee Park and Flanders Park.
Status – In Process
In February 2025, the City of Farmington approved the purchase of two fitness courts. In April 2025, the
concrete pad installation was awarded to Luigi Ferdinandi & Son Cement Company, which is now scheduling for
the concrete to be poured. Installation of the courts will begin 30 days after the concrete is poured.
Outstanding components include determining the exact location of the courts within the parks, delivery of the
courts, installation of the concrete pads and installation of the courts. The anticipated timeline for completion is
Fall 2025.
10
Ferndale
Wilson Park Accessibility Development
2022 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Project Scope
The completed project included a new accessible walking path, van accessible parking spaces, benches with
companion seating, accessible picnic tables, a drinking water fountain and bottle filler, shade structures and
interpretive signage. In addition to the OCP funding, the City of Ferndale received a GameTime grant – as part of
the 2023 mParks Statewide Funding Initiative. These funds went towards the purchase of play equipment.
MDNR also provided funding. The City of Ferndale held a ribbon cutting on October 27, 2024.
Status – Closed
11
Ferndale (continued)
Martin Road Revitalization Project
2023 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Figure: Playground concept design for Martin Road Park.
Project Scope
Add new ADA-compliant playground equipment to expand the play area and replace outdated equipment.
Renovate the park’s picnic area with new picnic tables (including some accessible picnic tables), new trash and
recycling bins and new grills. The plan also includes installing green infrastructure to improve stormwater
management.
Status – In Process
The City of Ferndale has broadened the scope of the project to include a more robust playground expansion. To
help fund this wider scope, they have applied for additional grants from DNR and are working with private
community partners for additional funding. The raingarden installation is complete and the City will be working
with their Department of Public Works and private contractors to install underdrainage and address other areas
of stormwater ponding as indicated in their Stormwater Management Plan from the Clinton River Watershed
Council.
Outstanding components include securing additional funding, completing the underdrainage system at the
playground, selecting a playground contractor and completing construction. They expect to select a contractor
in Spring 2025 and complete construction in Summer 2026.
12
Hazel Park
Bob Welch Baseball Field Modernization Project
2022 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Project Scope
The completed project included replacement of three sets of badly deteriorated bleachers and a scoreboard
that has not worked properly for close to three decades. Hazel Park has a long history and deep commitment to
baseball and its local field is dedicated to Bob Welch, a former MLB player and former resident of Hazel Park.
Baseball is the most popular youth sport in the community and Bob Welch Field is its most utilized park amenity.
This effort to modernize the field will have a significant and long-lasting positive impact for residents.
Status – Closed
13
Leonard
Leonard Nature Park Design Project
2022 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Project Scope
The completed project included evaluating the site and creating preliminary design and engineering plans for
enhancements to the existing infrastructure at the Leonard Nature Park. Final design plans focus on upgrading
the trails and amenities to be ADA-compliant and accessible, while protecting and conserving the integrity of the
natural resources at the park. The plans also include improving the connection to the adjacent Polly Ann Trail
and the installation of a small parking lot to make the site easier to access, as well as upgrading the picnic area
and adding accessible tables, new bike racks and waste receptacles.
Status – Closed
Polly Ann Trail Modernization Design Project
2023 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Project Scope
Develop design and engineering plans for improvements to the Polly Ann Trail within Oakland County.
Status – In Process
An amendment was made to the original agreement to change the scope of the project due to the higher than
anticipated engineering design estimates. The revised scope focuses on specific areas of the Polly Ann Trail
deemed most in need of improvements, reducing the portion of the trail included in the project from the full
16.9 miles to 4.1 miles of trail from Hosner Road to Elmwood Street. A modified RFP – based on the amended
change of scope – was approved by the Polly Ann Trailway Management Council (PATMC).
The project remains active, but bids are still coming in higher than available funds even with scaled back scope,
so the project team has been working with MDNR and Oakland County Economic Development to identify
additional funding sources. MDNR – on behalf of PATMC – has submitted two additional grant applications for
the project: Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program (U.S. Dept. of Transportation) and
Nutrition and Lifestyles Program (Michigan Health Endowment Fund). Grant awards will be announced in
September 2025 and – if awarded – expected timeline for project completion is October 2026.
14
Madison Heights
Basketball Court Rehabilitation at Civic Center Park
2023 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Project Scope
The completed project included tearing out the existing asphalt courts and applying new asphalt with a liquid
acrylic resurfacing application to increase longevity, boost curb appeal and improve court grip. The courts were
also restriped as part of the project.
Status – Closed
15
Madison Heights (continued)
Rosie’s Park Pickleball
2024 Strategic Partnerships Grant
Project Scope
The completed project included the construction of pickleball courts at Rosie’s Park. The courts are now open to
the public. In addition to the OCP grant, the City of Madison Heights provided $250,000 from its General Fund
Parks appropriation and entered into an agreement with the Southeast Michigan Pickleball Association for
multigenerational programming and $16,000 in funding. The Madison Heights Community Foundation provided
additional funding to put trees around the courts. A grand opening was held on May 30, 2025.
Status – Complete
16
Nine Mile Corridor – Multijurisdictional
Nine Mile Corridor Phase 2 Feasibility Study and Branding
2024 Strategic Partnership Grant
Project Scope
In 2023, Oakland County Parks facilitated (and matched) a grant from SEMCOG to develop a feasibility study for
a Nine Mile Pathway corridor in southern Oakland County. The initial project focused on communities between
I-275 and I-75, and included Farmington, Farmington Hills, Oak Park, Southfield, Ferndale and Hazel Park. In
2024, OCP provided funding for both Phase II of the Feasibility Study as well as a marketing and branding
strategy. Phase II brings in the rest of the communities along the corridor, including Novi, Northville, Lyon
Township and South Lyon.
17
Status – In Process
The Phase II report was completed in early 2025 and is currently being adopted by the four new
communities. Once that occurs, the four Phase II communities will officially sign on to the Nine Mile Task Force
MOU, which includes Oakland County and indicates each community’s interest in working together to develop
and connect non-motorized access along the entire 30-mile stretch of Nine Mile in Oakland County. Oakland
County Commissioners Taylor, Weipert and Cavell are currently appointed to the Task Force, which is
coordinated by OCP Planning and meets quarterly.
For the marketing and branding strategy component of the project, OCP worked with Crimson Agency on
creating a logo and brand guidelines for what is now referred to as the 9 Line. This iterative process included
representatives from all 10 communities who worked together to select both a name and a logo for the
corridor. Southfield has been the first community to install 9 Line signage, starting with a new sign at the
entrance to Bauervic Woods (on the 9 Line) as well as some custom art pieces along the corridor that match the
brand themes. OCP will continue to coordinate and convene the 9 Line communities and to assist with planning,
grant support, and marketing for the project.
18
Novi
Northwest Park Development
2022 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Photo credit (playground): Novi.org.
Project Scope
The completed project included a new parking lot at the trailhead, new playground equipment, an accessible
path, new landscaping, green infrastructure and site furnishings (bench, bike rack, trash receptacle, recycle bin
and bike repair station).
Status – Closed
19
Oakland Township
Oakland Township Gallagher Trail Gap
2023 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Project Scope
Install a new trail to fill a 390’ gap in an existing trail network located along Gallagher Road between Silverbell
Road and Orion Road. This new trail connection will provide safe access to the regional trail network and a
regional destination for the most populated area of the Township and surrounding communities.
Status – On Hold
The Township completed final engineering and obtaining permits and was prepared to bid the project this
spring but then voted to order preliminary engineering on paving Gallagher Road, which – according to the Road
Commission – may involve moving some of the existing safety path. They have decided to wait until that project
is completed or abandoned before moving forward with the grant project and have requested an extension on
the grant term. The timeline for completion is TBD.
20
Orion Township
Civic Center Sand Playground Phase 1
2023 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Project Scope
The completed project included installation of a 6-foot accessible concrete walkway, a two-basin accessible sand
and water table and two EZ-Diggers (one standard and one accessible).
Status – Closed
21
Oxford Township
Davis Family Farmers Market
2022 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Project Scope
The 4,000-square-foot, open-air pavilion was completed in October 2022 and provides lighting and access for
vendors to water and electricity. It will house market vendors and shelter park patrons during the spring,
summer and fall.
Status – Closed
22
Pontiac
Mattie McKinney Hatchett Park Redevelopment
2022 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Photos: sidewalk removal and counstruction fencing (courtesy of City of Pontiac).
Project Scope
Redevelop Mattie McKinney Hatchett including new outdoor fitness equipment, updated playground
equipment, new and repaired walking paths, park seating and updated general amenities.
Status – In Process
The City of Pontiac was going to be unable to complete the project by the original grant term end (May 2025) so
an amendment providing a year extension has been drafted and is going through the approval process with
Corporation Counsel. Construction began in April 2025 and sidewalk removal and stockpiled debris removal is
complete. Bike racks and basketball court equipment have been delivered. Outstanding components include
installation of bike racks, play structure, benches and trash receptacles. The anticipated timeline for completion
is September 2025.
23
Rochester
Paint Creek Trail Bridge Design Engineering
2022 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Photos: Existing bridge (left) to be replaced with single-span, 70’ steel truss bridge like Paint Creek Trail Bridge 33.7 (right)
Project Scope
Develop engineering plans and construction documents required for the Paint Creek Trailways Commission to
put the project to reconstruct Bridge 31.7 on the Paint Creek Trail out to bid. A 2016 structural inspection
determined the bridge had extensive deterioration of the timber superstructure, piers and abutments and
recommended vehicular loads be limited until repairs could be completed. Long term goals for the replacement
project include improving accessibility and safety for trail users, improving access for maintenance and
emergency vehicles, reducing erosion along the Paint Creek and improving the fisheries habitat of the Paint
Creek.
Status – In Process
The construction plans, project specifications, cost estimate and traffic control plans are 80% complete. The City
received Soil Erosion Approval on 9/18/2023 and EGLE Permit on 6/12/2023. They anticipate finalizing the
construction plans, project specifications, cost estimates and traffic control plan in October 2024.
24
Rochester Hills
Innovation Hills Restroom
2024 Strategic Partnership Grant
Project Scope
In partnership with the Oakland County Board of Commissioners, OCP is supporting the development of
restrooms at Innovation Hills Park in Rochester Hills. Since opening in 2021, the Innovation Hills playground has
become one of the most popular recreational destinations in Oakland County, drawing an estimated 400,000
visitors annually. Grant funding will facilitate the completion of much-needed restroom facilities that will serve
the playground area and enhance the visibility of OCP to a wider audience.
Status – In Process
The project is approximately 60% complete, including the utility hook ups, exterior wall and roof rough
carpentry. The exterior porch columns are framed, and the concrete porch slabs have been poured. Outstanding
components include installing the finishing layer on the exterior (roof, sliding doors, etc.) and completing the
interior work (painting, fixtures, lighting, HVAC). The anticipated timeline for completion is Summer 2025.
25
Royal Oak
Enhancing Public Access to Royal Oak Arboretum
2022 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Project Scope
The completed project included upgrading 1,300’ of trails within the Arboretum to hard-surface trails and
installing three ADA-compliant benches and two ADA-compliant parking spaces at the trailhead. The project was
implemented simultaneously with another grant project to plant 100 trees in the Arboretum, courtesy of the
Erb Family Foundation. A ribbon cutting was held on April 24, 2025.
Status – Complete
26
Royal Oak (Continued)
Hamer Finch Wilkins Park
2023 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Project Scope
The completed project remade Hamer Finch Wilkins Park (formerly Beechwood Park), creating a peaceful,
reflective garden that tells the story of Royal Oaks’ early black pioneers, Henry and Elizabeth Hamer. New ADA-
compliant pathways, a seating area and a picnic area – with an accessible picnic table – were constructed, and a
bronze sculpture of Elizabeth Hamer was installed. Six trees and more than 300 perennials were planted. The
City of Royal Oak held a ribbon cutting for the park on September 23, 2024.
Status – Complete
27
South Lyon
Downtown South Lyon Park
2022 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Figure: 100x70’ parcel at 390 S. Lafayette St. in downtown South Lyon (Images: City of South Lyon Parks & Rec Master Plan)
Project Scope
Creation of a 7,000 sq. ft. mini park at 390 S. Lafayette in downtown South Lyon. Potential ideas for the site
include a passive park with sitting areas and landscaping, swings, a gazebo or an art park.
Status – In Process
The South Lyon DDA was also awarded approximately $300,000 through a grant with Main Street Oakland
County. The City of South Lyon awarded the Phase 1 bid on May 27, 2025, and anticipates completing the
construction May 2026. A tentative conceptual plan for the site is above.
28
Southfield
Lahser Woods Park Improvement Project: Dog Park
2023 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Project Scope
Bring Southfield residents their first dog park, providing recreational fitness equipment, creating a solar-lit
walking path and installing a renovated gravel parking lot. Phase 1 of the project focuses on the park entrance,
parking lot and dog park.
Status – In Process
The pathways and all underground work are complete. The focus is now on building the dog park, improving the
parking lot and connecting new components with the trail. The project is 50% done with earthwork, grading,
fencing and gates, access control system, clay surface, turf restoration, bike rack, DTE electrical service and
camera pole still outstanding. The expected date of completion is July 1, 2025.
29
Springfield Township
Rotary Park and Mill Pond Park Connecting Pathway
2024 Strategic Partnership Grant
Project Scope
Construction of a boardwalk and pathway connecting Rotary Park and Mill Pond Park now that the Davisburg
Mill Pond Dam has been removed and the new open bottom culvert has been installed. The proposed design
would allow for a new, safe and convenient pathway connecting the two parks and provide the public with
access to the restored Shiawassee River.
Status – In Process
Design engineering on the project began in August 2024. Outstanding components include completing design
engineering and constructing the pathway. The project is expected to be completed in 2027.
30
West Bloomfield Township
West Bloomfield Trail/Nature Preserve Restroom
2022 Community Park & Trail Capital Grant
Project Scope
The completed project replaced two porta-john restrooms at the trailhead of the West Bloomfield Trail and
Nature Preserve with a prefabricated accessible restroom facility. A drinking fountain and bottle-filling station
was also added. A ribbon-cutting was held on September 18, 2024.
Status – Closed
1
June 4, 2025 – Update
Oakland County Parks and
Recreation Commission
RETURN TO AGENDA
2
Summary
In October 2022, the Oakland County Board of Commissioners approved the Oakland County Parks (OCP)
Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan, a $20.2M program aimed at enhancing
park and recreation opportunities utilizing American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds ($15M) matched with
funding from OCP ($5.2M).
The dedicated funds support park improvement projects located in areas most disproportionally impacted by
the COVID 19 pandemic. Projects were selected based on having the following community impacts:
Transform and eliminate historic inequities in the distribution of the benefits of the OCP system and
significantly enhance our capacity to serve residents of densely populated and diverse urban areas.
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
wellbeing of our residents.
Identified projects include improvements to the following existing OCP properties: Catalpa Oaks, Lyon Oaks, Red
Oaks and Waterford Oaks. Long-term local partnerships that enhance community parks and expand the OCP
system were established in Madison Heights, Oak Park, Pontiac and Southfield. Funding has also been allocated
for capital grants and partnerships with local communities: Hazel Park, Royal Oak Township, Oak Park, Pontiac
and Southfield.
Construction Updates
Timeline
Cover Photo: New trails at Pontiac Oaks County Park
3
Hazel Park
Green Acres Park Project
Photo: New accessible playground at Green Acres Park
Project Agreement
License Agreement and Consent to Work – May 11, 2023
Summary Project Scope
The City of Hazel Park was allocated $400,000 from the OCP Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation
Investment Plan for a new accessible playground with associated access routes, amenities, and manufacturer’s
warranty for play equipment, as well as planning assistance for future projects.
Location
Green Acres Park is a 17.9-acre park owned and operated by the City of Hazel Park.
Outreach and Engagement
Planning Open House – July 25, 2023
Playground Grand Opening – April 20, 2024
Status – Park Improvements – Closed
The playground replacement project removed outdated equipment and expanded the playground area from
1,125 square feet to approximately 4,500 square feet. The new playground has an urban nature theme and is
appropriate for children ages two to 12. Features include six swings (two infant, one accessible); three slides;
three musical play elements; two spring riders; three climbing structures; and activity panels that promote
sensory experience and imaginative play. Poured-in-place rubber surfacing enhances access to the main
playground features. Three bench seats with backs and shade structures are located around the play area.
The grant also funded restroom improvements, including plumbing, electrical, plumbing fixtures, new counters,
new bathroom accessories, new partitions, accessibility improvements, new lighting fixtures, paint and epoxy
floor finish.
4
Status – Planning Assistance – Closed
The original scope of the planning assistance was limited to developing a pocket park plan for Hazel Park’s
numerous small (under five acres) parks. An update of the City’s 5-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan was
incorporated into this scope and the new plan was approved by DNR and Hazel Park’s City Council in January
2025.
Hazel Park Community Center Modernization Project
Photo: Hazel Park Community Center
Project Agreement
Grant Agreement – August 21, 2023
Summary Project Scope
The City of Hazel Park was awarded a $300,000 grant from the OCP Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor
Recreation Investment Plan for upgrades to the Hazel Park Community Center. Upgrades may include HVAC
improvements, door and window replacements, updates to floors, walls and ceilings, and bathroom
improvements. The improvements will include the development of a new Oakland County Parks South Office,
which will be a community meeting and office space for OCP and Hazel Park staff as well as other partners and
groups.
Location
The Hazel Park Community Center is located at 620 W. Woodward Heights in the City of Hazel Park.
Status – In Process
Hazel Park has received 50% of the grant funds from OCP. The City has contracted with AKA Architects for
design and engineering services. Partial painting, roof work and flooring in the OCP office are complete, and
ductless mini-split and energy recovery ventilator (ERV) unit have been installed. Roof replacement, lobby
remodeling, reception desk window, front entrance security and inner doors installation are still outstanding.
Project is anticipated to be completed in August 2025.
5
Lyon Township and Wixom
Lyon Oaks County Park
Photo: Grand O pening at inclusive playground at Lyon Oaks County Park on June 22, 2024
Summary Project Scope
Increase opportunities for active outdoor recreation with a destination playground, flexible open space for
exercise, accessible pickleball courts and improved trail connectivity to the Huron Valley Trail. The project was
funded by the OCP Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan, including $200,000 in
ARPA funding and $690,000 from the OCP Capital Improvement Program. The GameTime Statewide Funding
Initiative grant covered 50% of the cost of the play equipment.
Location
Lyon Oaks is a 1,041-acre park in southwestern Oakland County in Lyon Township and the City of Wixom.
Outreach and Engagement
Grand Opening – Saturday, June 22, 2024
National Demonstration Site – The playground at Lyon Oaks meets the requirements to be a National
Demonstration Site (NDS) for both inclusive play and for physical activity. Survey data will be collected
on an ongoing basis and fed into a national database managed by PlayCORE. Site-specific data will be
available for internal review and planning purposes. The data collected at Lyon Oaks will be added to
aggregate national data, which will inform future playground design and development by the Center for
Outreach, Research and Education (CORE).
6
Status - Closed
The completed project includes the following components:
Old playground was replaced with a large, accessible playground that promotes physical and social
inclusion through universal design.
Pickleball courts allow guests with and without disabilities to play. The four courts can serve 16 players
at a time and are connected to the parking lot, pavilion and restroom by accessible routes.
Restrooms are available year-round (heat was installed in 2023 for the purpose of serving contact
station staff), extending the season of use for playground and pickleball courts.
All areas of the reactivated space are connected by access routes that – at a minimum – meet ADA
accessibility standards.
Paved improvements to the trailhead, close to accessible parking spaces, improves connection between
the Woods Edge area and the Huron River Trail as well as the park’s trail network.
Accessible parking, included as part of the park-wide Lyon Oaks paving project, provides three times the
minimum required accessible parking spaces.
7
Madison Heights
Red Oaks Play Garden honoring Gary R. McGillivray
Figure: Red Oaks Play Garden rendering
Project Agreements
Interlocal Partnership Agreement – August 7, 2023
Park Action Plan – November 17, 2023
Capital Improvement Plan – April 17, 2024
Summary Project Scope
The addition of Ambassador Park to Red Oaks County Park – as the Red Oaks Play Garden – will provide land not
located over G.W. Kuhn Drain that can support new infrastructure, including green restrooms. Improvements
will focus on senior-friendly intergenerational amenities and will honor the life and public service of former
Parks Commission Chair Gary R. McGillivray. The project is funded by the OCP Healthy Communities Park and
Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan, including $2,750,000 in ARPA funding and $4,390,465 from the OCP CIP.
Location
Red Oaks County Park is a 139-acre park located in southeastern Oakland County in the City of Madison Heights.
The complex includes a nature center, nature preserve, water park, dog park and golf course. The 7-acre former
Ambassador Park is now incorporated into the Red Oaks complex as Red Oaks Play Garden. The Nature Center,
Nature Preserve and Red Oaks Play Garden are operated by OCP and owned by the City of Madison Heights.
Outreach and Engagement
Stakeholder Engagement / Parks Improvement Planning Report by OHM – September 1, 2022
Survey – September 11-24, 2023
Planning Open Houses – September 16, 18, and 22, 2023
Design Open House – August 5, 2024
Status – In Process
OCP contracted with Wade Trim for design and engineering services and construction management contract
with DeMaria was executed December 10, 2024. The park closed in May for full renovation, including a new
playground and tot garden, hammocks, sledding hill improvements, restroom building with attached shade
structure and porch swings as well as a new parking lot. It is anticipated to reopen in 2026.
8
Oak Park
Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park
Figure: Rendering of the future Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park
Project Agreements
Interlocal Partnership Agreement – August 8, 2023
Park Action Plan – January 30, 2024
Summary Project Scope
Develop an open space gateway with accessible trails, seating and gathering areas, and install a nature-themed
playground, as well as updates to existing pavilions and restrooms. The project is funded by the OCP Healthy
Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan, including $2,500,000 in ARPA funding and
$5,460,168 from the OCP Capital Improvement Program.
Location
Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park is a 17-acre area located within David H. Shepherd Park in the City of Oak
Park. The park is jointly operated by OCP and Oak Park and is owned by the City of Oak Park.
Outreach and Engagement
Survey – September 13-October 9, 2023
Planning Open Houses – September 26 and 27, October 5, 2023
Design Open House – July 10, 2024
Status – In Process
OCP management commenced on July 1, 2024, incorporating Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park into the OCP
system. OCP contracted with Wade Trim for design and engineering services and construction management
contract with DeMaria was executed December 10, 2024. The park closed in May and work is underway on
pavilion and warming kitchen updates, a new restroom building, gathering and seating areas and a new play
area. The renovated area is expected to reopen in 2026.
9
Oak Park Event Hub – Farmers Market Structure
Figure: Oak Park Event Hub Farmers Market exterior rendering; below: floor plan
Project Agreement
Grant Agreement – August 8, 2023
Summary Project Scope
The City of Oak Park was awarded a $500,000 grant from the OCP Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor
Recreation Investment Plan to fund, in part, a four-season permanent Farmers Market building that will provide
access to often-subsidized, locally grown Michigan produce. The Farmers Market includes a commercial kitchen
for cooking classes and nutritional education, as well as opportunities for hands-on experiences preparing
healthy foods.
Location
The Oak Park Event Hub will be located at 13600 Oak Park Blvd. in the City of Oak Park.
Status – In Process
Oak Park has received 50% of the
grant funds. The City has
contracted with Neumann Smith
to complete the design of the
Event Hub project.
Groundbreaking is scheduled for
June 10, 2025. Project is expected
to be completed by Summer
2026.
10
Pontiac
Pontiac Oaks County Park
Photo: new paved trails at Pontiac Oaks County Park
Project Agreements
Interlocal Partnership Agreement – June 23, 2023
Transition Period Plan – June 28, 2023
Park Action Plan – October 3, 2023
Summary Project Scope
Provide a safe and welcoming environment for guests by updating buildings, adding amenities and increasing
accessibility. Manage shoreline vegetation and invasive species for clear views of Cregar Lake and Upper Silver
Lake. Install new accessible dock and boat launch (complete) and add accessible kayak launch. Undertake trail
improvements, natural area restoration and forest management to provide quality experiences in nature. Assist
the City with acquisition of additional parkland to increase park acreage. The project is funded by the OCP
Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan, including $1,300,000 in ARPA funding and
$915,000 from the OCP Capital Improvement Program.
Location
Pontiac Oaks, formerly known as Hawthorne Park, is a 77-acre park in Pontiac. The park is operated by OCP and
owned by the City of Pontiac.
Outreach and Engagement
Survey – August 7-30, 2023
Planning Open Houses – August 21, 22 and 26, 2023
Design Open House – July 16, 2024
11
Status – In Process
OCP management commenced in July of 2023, and the park formally transitioned to Pontiac Oaks on October 3,
2023, making it the 15th park in the OCP system. Pontiac Oaks improvements are being planned and executed in
two phases:
Phase I is complete – it addressed the immediate needs of the park to be safely open to the public:
New accessible fishing pier
Restroom facilities – with restored utilities and a new roof and furnishings
The playground was cleaned up and outdated equipment replaced
Regular maintenance and cleaning by OCP
Phase II is underway – construction has started and is anticipated to be completed by Fall 2025:
Accessible pathways
Nature-based play pockets
Improved lake views
New pavilion
Accessible kayak launch
12
Crystal Lake Park Revitalization
Photo: first phase master plan for Crystal Lake Park in Pontiac
Project Agreement
Grant Agreement – August 8, 2023
Location
Crystal Lake Park is a 43-acre park along the north side of Crystal Lake in the southwest portion of the City of
Pontiac. Currently closed to the public, it is owned and operated by Pontiac.
Summary Project Scope
The City of Pontiac received a $500,000 grant from the OCP Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation
Investment Plan to reclaim and revitalize Crystal Lake Park so that its abundant environmental, recreation and
historic resources may be enjoyed by residents. Due to vandalism and deteriorating conditions, the park has
been closed. Funding will provide resources for clean-up and repair and restoration of the amenities.
Status – In Process
Pontiac has received 50% of the grant funds. Mowing and brush removal are complete. The City has contracted
with CTI Contractor Services for construction, which will begin June 2025 and is anticipated to be complete
September 2026. The park master plan will be phased to ensure park opens to residents within the grant period.
13
Royal Oak Township
Mack-Rowe Park
Photo: Grand Opening at new playground at Mack-Rowe Park on May 18, 2024
Project Agreement
License Agreement – May 11, 2023
Summary Project Scope
The Charter Township of Royal Oak was allocated $300,000 from the OCP Healthy Communities Park and
Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan for a new accessible playground with associated access routes, amenities,
and manufacturer’s warranty for play equipment. With the partnership of Township staff and elected officials,
OCP completed the project for Royal Oak Township.
Location
Mack-Rowe Park is a five-acre park owned and operated by the Charter Township of Royal Oak.
Outreach and Engagement
Planning Open Houses – June 17 and July 26, 2023
Grand Opening – May 18, 2024
Status – Closed
The playground replacement project removed outdated equipment and expanded the playground area from
2,450 square feet to approximately 5,250 square feet. The new playground has an urban nature theme and is
appropriate for children ages two to 12. Features include six swings (two infant and one accessible); four slides;
two musical play elements; two spring riders; three climbing structures; and several activity panels that promote
sensory experience and imaginative play. Poured-in-place rubber surfacing enhances access to the main
playground features. Two bench seats with backs and shade structures are located around the play area.
Remaining grant funds provided for park rules signs, fence replacement, tree removals and planting, sport court
surfacing on the basketball court and conversion of the tennis court into a roller-skating rink.
14
Southfield
Catalpa Oaks County Park
Figure: Schematic master plan for Catalpa Oaks
Summary Project Scope
Improve the parking lot with new pavement and stormwater management and add an accessible plaza with
shaded gathering and seating areas to welcome visitors to the park. The project is funded by the OCP Healthy
Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan, including $750,000 in ARPA funding and
$1,490,000 from the OCP Capital Improvement Program.
Location
Catalpa Oaks is a 24-acre Oakland County Park located in the City of Southfield.
Outreach and Engagement
Stakeholder Engagement / Parks Improvement Planning Report by OHM – September 1, 2022
Status – In Process
OCP contracted with PEA for design and engineering services, and construction management contract with
DeMaria was executed December 10, 2024. The park closed in May to allow for work on new picnic shelter,
improved accessible pathways, playground expansion and paved parking lot. Renovations are expected to
conclude in Spring 2026 and intermittent closures are anticipated throughout that year to allow for turf growth.
15
Southfield Oaks County Park
Figure: Southfield Oaks concept sketch
Project Agreements
Interlocal Partnership Agreement – November 29, 2023
Park Action Plan – March 28, 2024
Summary Project Scope
Natural resources management and park development of the former nine-hole golf course will provide quality
experiences in nature with accessible trails, boardwalks and access to the Rouge River in a restored grassland
and forest habitat. Seating areas will provide opportunities to socialize and relax in a natural setting. The project
is funded by the OCP Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan, including $1,500,000
in ARPA funding and $1,500,000 from the OCP Capital Improvement Program. OCP also received $300,000 from
Sustain Our Great Lakes, a public-private partnership administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.
These funds will be used to reconnect and restore four acres of floodplain along the Rouge River.
Location
Southfield Oaks is a 39-acre area located within Beech Woods Park in the City of Southfield. The area is operated
by OCP and owned by the City of Southfield.
Outreach and Engagement
Survey – November 16 – December 8, 2023
Planning Open Houses – December 5, 2023
Status – In Process
OCP management commenced April 1, 2024. OCP contracted with Stantec for design and engineering services
and construction management. The former golf course will get new trails, restored natural areas, interpretive
stations and play and seating areas. Southfield Oaks is expected to open in 2026.
16
Beech Woods Park Playground and Shade Structure Project
Figure: City of Southfield Beech Woods Park playground
Project Agreement
Grant Agreement – November 29, 2023
Summary Project Scope
The City of Southfield was awarded a $500,000 grant from the OCP Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor
Recreation Investment Plan for the construction of an inclusive playground designed to provide a safe and
engaging environment for children of all abilities. This inclusive approach promotes social interaction and
enables children to develop valuable friendships while playing together.
Location
Beech Woods Park is an 82-acre park owned and operated by the City of Southfield.
Status – In Process
Southfield has received 50% of the grant funds. Construction is underway and about 90% of the playground is
complete, including the concrete, sidewalks, irrigation and stone seating area. All playground equipment has
been received from the vendor and most has been installed. Outstanding components include the rubber
surfacing – which is in process – mulch, plantings and installation of the last few elements of the playground.
The project is anticipated to be completed by June 2025.
17
Waterford Township
Waterford Oaks County Park
Figure: Waterford Oaks Renovation Master Plan
Summary Project Scope
Creation of a new and expanded playground and an accessible plaza with shaded gathering and seating areas to
welcome visitors to the park and provide opportunities to socialize and relax. The project is funded by the OCP
Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan, including $3,500,000 in ARPA funding and
$1,000,000 from the OCP Capital Improvement Program.
Location
Waterford Oaks is a 199-acre Oakland County Park located in Waterford Township.
Outreach and Engagement
Stakeholder Engagement / Parks Improvement Planning Report by OHM – September 1, 2022
18
Status – In Process
OCP contracted with DLZ for design and engineering services and a construction management contract with
DeMaria was executed December 10, 2024.
The existing platform tennis courts have been repaired, repainted and lined for pickleball (dual use).
The newly named “Cattail Cove” (formerly “Paradise Peninsula”) section of Waterford Oaks closed in May to
allow for a major playground expansion, new restrooms, new pavilion and new fitness area. It is anticipated to
reopen in 2026.
The final phase of the project will focus on development of an overall master plan for the park that considers
the future of the entire park, including its trail system and various facilities.
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 1
Department: Park Operations
From: Erik Koppin, Chief of Park Operations and Maintenance – South District
Subject: Water Safety and Swim Lesson Partnership MOU
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
Summer of 2025 marks the fourth year of partnering with the Huron-Clinton Metroparks to teach
essential water safety and learn-to-swim skills geared towards children ages 5 to 13 years old.
Registered participants will receive a swimsuit, swim caps, goggles, a bag, and a towel. The
partnership will be provided to 80-100 participants at Waterford Kettering High School.
Registration will be offered through strategic partnerships with Oakland County Sherrif’s PAL and
Pontiac Parks and Recreation. Registration fills up fast, with dates, times and details on how to
register being announced and advertised after completion of the agreement. Lessons are
tentatively planned to begin on July 9, 2025.
Based on meeting schedules, this request has been submitted to the Oakland County Board of
Commissioners (BOC) Legislative Affairs and Government Operations (LAGO) Committee for
approval at their June 3, 2025 meeting. If approved by the LAGO Committee and this body, it will
be considered for final approval by the full BOC at their June 11, 2025 meeting.
ATTACHMENTS
1.2025 Collaborative Partnership Memorandum of Understanding
MOTION
Move to approve the attached 2025 Collaborative Partnership Memorandum of Understanding
(MOU) between the Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority (HCMA) and Oakland County Parks
and Recreation Commission for the Water Safety and Swim Lesson Partnership as outlined in
the agreement; to request the Board of Commissioners to authorize the approval of the 2025
Collaborative Partnership Memorandum of Understanding; and to accept a donation of up to
$12,906 from the Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority to offset program costs, with the total
donation being reflected in a subsequent budget amendment once the final donation amount is
determined.
RETURN TO AGENDA
HURON-CLINTON METROPOLITAN AUTHORITY
AND
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
2025 Collaborative Partnership Memorandum of Understanding
The HURON-CLINTON METROPOLITAN AUTHORITY (“HCMA”) and the OAKLAND
COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION (“OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS”)
memorialize the following understandings regarding the Water Safety and Swim Lesson
Partnership between our agencies.
1. Purpose: The purpose of this partnership is to develop the Water Safety and Swim
Lessons program at WATERFORD KETTERING POOL to residents of PONTIAC
and neighboring areas, and to expand efforts to reduce drownings and increase
water safety.
2. Understandings:
a. HCMA will:
i. Provide up to $12,906 to the OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS for its use
in its Water Safety and Swimming Lessons program at the
WATERFORD KETTERING POOL location.
ii. Facilitate online registration for all swim lesson participants as
outlined in detail in attachment A.
1. Obtain liability waivers from all participants and the parents of
minor participants as part of the registration process prior to
the commencement of the Water Safety and Swim Lessons
program.
iii. Create pre and post lesson assessments and share with O AKLAND
COUNTY PARKS for use with every participant.
iv. Procure swim gear for the individual participants to include swim
suit/trunk, swim googles, swim cap, towel and swim bag.
v. Help with outreach and communication efforts to spread the word
about the free Water Safety and Swim Lessons program and this
partnership.
vi. Execute a joint marketing and communication campaign to promote
the free Water Safety and Swim Lessons program using agreed upon
language.
vii. Participate in a post swim lesson re-cap meeting within 4 weeks of
the final lesson.
viii. Create a post lesson experience survey and send post lesson
experience survey to all registered participants within 7 days of
their final lesson.
b. OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS will:
i. Invoice HCMA for up to $12,906 by SEPTEMBER 15, 2025 and
provide a W9 to allow payment to be processed.
ii. Provide between 60-100 registered participants with a free swim
lessons cohort to PONTIAC and neighboring residents during the
month of JULY of 2025.
iii. Be responsible for booking all swim lesson facilities, hiring
lifeguard/swim instructors, paying staff, securing insurance required,
maintaining paperwork as needed, and contacting participants about
any change in swim lesson schedules.
iv. Provide HCMA a copy of current swim instructor certifications for
applicable swim instructors.
v. Ensure all registered participants have a complete pre -lesson skills
assessment provided by HCMA. This can be completed by the swim
instructors or participant families but should be complete by the end
of the registered participants’ first lesson.
vi. Conduct post-lesson skills assessments provided by HCMA by
September 15, 2025.
vii. Participate in a post swim lesson re-cap meeting within 4 weeks of
the final lesson.
viii. Execute a joint marketing and communication campaign to promote
the free Water Safety and Swim Lessons program using agreed upon
language.
ix. Communicate with HCMA on any issues or shortfalls regarding the
swim lessons in good faith.
3. Enforcement by Parties. This Agreement shall be enforceable only by the Parties
hereto and no other person shall have a right to enforce any provisions contained
herein. This Agreement is not intended to convey third party rights to any other
person.
4. Severability. Should any portion of this Agreement be determined by a court of
appropriate jurisdiction to be unenforceable, such determination shall not affect the
remainder of this Agreement.
5. Entire Agreement. This Agreement, including any exhibits or attachments attached
hereto, which are incorporated herein and made a part hereof contains the entire
Agreement between the parties
Agreed and understood:
HURON-CLINTON METROPARKS
______________________________ DATE: ____________________
By: Amy McMillan
Its: Director
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
______________________________ DATE: ____________________
By:
Its:
OAKLAND COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
______________________________ DATE: ____________________
By:
Its:
Attachment A:
HCMA to facilitate the online registration process for the free Water Safety and Swim
Lessons program at WATERFORD KETTERING POOL.
HCMA will:
1. Host the online registration process
a. Registration set-up
b. Hold a waitlist and maximize participation by transferring waitlist
participants to open spots or no-show spots within the first two lessons
c. Share the link for online registration a minimum of 4 weeks ahead of the
first lesson to OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS, for use with Oakland County
Sheriff PAL and other identified Pontiac partner groups.
2. Create and share communication and promotion materials of swim lesson
registration
3. Send a post-lesson satisfaction survey to registered participants
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS will:
1. Send HCMA confirmed lesson schedule, which includes all dates, times, and
number of participants a minimum of 8 weeks ahead of first lesson.
2. Update HCMA of any no-call/no-shows immediately after each of the first two
lessons in a session.
3. Facilitate pre-lesson and post -lesson skill assessments to all registered
participants.
a. Pre-lesson skills assessments must be complete by the end of the
registered participants’ first lesson. All pre-skills assessments must be
uploaded using the link provided by HCMA by September 15, 2025.
b. Post-lesson skills assessments must be complete, and results sent to
HCMA by September 15, 2025.
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 2
Department: Planning + Development
From: Melissa Prowse, Manager – Planning + Development
Subject: Purchase Agreement for 649, 675 and 677 W. Walton Blvd. at Pontiac Oaks
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
In January 2025 the Parks Commission approved the purchase of 4 parcels of property on Walton
Road on the north side of Upper Silver Lake. This acquisition was funded through a grant from
Ducks Unlimited for wetland conservation. Recently, 3 additional parcels immediately west of
those acquired in January were listed for sale. This additional 8.22 acres would extend OCPR’s
ownership (and therefore Pontiac Oaks Park boundary) further west along the lake.
Acquiring these additional parcels will allow for an additional access/entry point to the park,
extension of a future trail, and additional shoreline that can be maintained with the rest of the
park’s shoreline, which will help in managing invasive species as well as creating improved
viewsheds. It could serve as another dock/launch location for fishing and kayak/canoe access as
well. The new 8.2 acres is directly across the lake from the shoreline opening and restoration
project currently underway at Pontiac Oaks, including the installation of a new trail along the water
that would look across the lake at this new property.
With the addition of this 8.2 acres Pontiac Oaks will have grown from the original 77 acres to more
than 121 acres in the past year, providing even more recreational and natural resources for
residents of Pontiac to enjoy.
The attached Purchase Agreement has a purchase price of $410,000, which is under the
appraised value. OCP staff have also been intalks with Ducks Unlimited, who have indicated that
they have an additional $60,000 that they are likely able to put towards this acquisition, to further
their support of the previous 17.4-acre acquisition. DU staff have indicated that we are very likely
to receive this funding, which would bring OCP’s acquisition cost down to $350,000.
ATTACHMENTS
1.Pontiac Oaks Acquisition Maps
2.Purchase Agreement
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the Commission approve the attached Purchase Agreement for 649, 675 and
677 Walton to add these parcels to Pontiac Oaks County Park and forward the Purchase
Agreement to the Oakland County Board of Commissioners for approval and execution.
MOTION
Move to approve the Purchase Agreement for 649, 675 and 677 W. Walton Boulevard, Pontiac,
MI 48340 to add these parcels to Pontiac Oaks County Park, and forward the Purchase
Agreement to the Oakland County Board of Commissioners for approval and execution.
RETURN TO AGENDA
FINAL VERSION 05-22-25 1
PURCHASE AGREEMENT
THIS PURCHASE AGREEMENT ("Agreement") is made and entered by and between The Estate
of Todd Hudson, deceased, Oakland County Probate Court File No. 2024-421,676-DE, through its
Personal Representative Chantel Nicole Cook, (now Chantel Nicole Hudson)1 ("Seller") and the
COUNTY OF OAKLAND, by and through its statutory agent, the Oakland County Parks and
Recreation Commission, a Constitutional and Municipal Corporation, 1200 N. Telegraph Road,
Pontiac, Michigan 48341 ("Purchaser"), for the purchase of real property and structures located
thereon which are specifically described in Exhibit A ("Premises"), including all rights, title,
interests, and mineral rights or mineral royalty interest in the Premises. Exhibit A is fully
incorporated into this Agreement. In consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements
contained herein, receipt of which is acknowledged by the Parties, the Parties agree as follows:
1. PURCHASE PRICE/DEPOSIT/OTHER COSTS OR FEES.
1.1. Property Transferred. Seller shall sell and Purchaser shall purchase the Premises,
subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
1.2. Purchase Price. Subject to the adjustments and prorations provided for in this
Agreement, the purchase price of the Premises is four hundred and ten thousand
dollars and no cents ($410,000.00) payable as set forth in this Agreement.
1.3. Approval of Agreement. The Oakland County Board of Commissioners shall have
sixty (60) calendar days from the date Seller executes this Agreement to approve and
execute this Agreement. If the Oakland County Board of Commissioners does not
approve and execute this Agreement within the sixty (60) day period, then the
Agreement shall be null and void.
1.4. Effective Date. This Agreement shall be effective on the date it is fully executed by
the Parties (“Effective Date”).
1.5. Earnest Money Deposit. Within ten (10) calendar days after the Effective Date,
Purchaser shall deposit with ATA National Title Group/Seaver Title, 42651
Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, MI, 48304 (the "Title Company") five
thousand dollars and no cents ($5,000.00) (“Deposit”). The Deposit shall be held in
a non-interest bearing account. The Deposit shall be applied toward the purchase
price at the time of Closing, if the sale is consummated, or shall be disbursed to
Seller or Purchaser in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.
1.6. Payment of Balance of Purchase Price. This is a cash sale. At the time of Closing,
after applying the Deposit, the balance of the purchase price minus any costs adjusted
at Closing shall be wired by Purchaser to the Title Company.
1The Personal Representative’s name, Chantel Nicole Cook was changed back to her maiden name by Order of the
Washtenaw County Circuit Court on September 20, 2024 in a divorce proceeding with the file number 2023-
002318-DO.
FINAL VERSION 05-22-25 2
1.7. Broker’s Fee. Seller, under a separate agreement, shall be responsible for and pay
any and all brokers’ fee in connection with the conveyance of the Premises.
Purchaser did not engage/retain a broker for the purchase of the Premises.
2. TITLE CONVEYED.
2.1. Form of Conveyance. At Closing, Seller shall convey fee simple, marketable title to
the Premises to Purchaser by warranty deed showing no exceptions, except for the
“Permitted Exceptions” (as defined in Section 4). The Premises shall include all
tenements, hereditaments, privileges and appurtenances belonging or in any way
appertaining to the Premises including the following: (1) all future land division
rights (2) all right, title and interest of Seller in any street, road or avenue, open or
proposed, in front of or adjoining the Premises, or any part thereof, to the centerline
thereof, (3) all water, air, riparian and mineral rights, (4) the use of appurtenant
easements, whether or not of record, strips and rights of way abutting, adjacent,
contiguous or adjoining the Premises, and (5) all assignable licenses, franchises,
rights and governmental or other permits, authorizations, consents and approvals,
which are necessary to own and/or operate the Premises, to the extent that the same
are legally assignable. The Premises shall also include the rights of Seller under any
express or implied guaranties, warranties, indemnifications and other rights, if any,
which Seller may have against suppliers, laborers, materialmen, contractors or
subcontractors arising out of or in connection with the installation, construction and
maintenance of the improvements, fixtures and personal property on or about the
Premises.
2.2. Encumbrances. After Seller’s executes this Agreement, Seller shall not lease, assign,
or grant a security interest or other lien that would encumber the Premises after the
Closing Date, unless approved in writing by Purchaser. Seller warrants that any
lease, assignment, security interest or other lien that encumbers or would encumber
the Premises shall be terminated prior to the Closing Date or satisfied out of the
consideration transferred at the time of Closing.
3. TITLE INSURANCE.
3.1. Within ten (10) calendar days of the Effective Date, Seller shall obtain from the Title
Company and deliver to Purchaser, a commitment for an ALTA Owner’s Policy of
Title Insurance in the amount of the total purchase price (the “Commitment”). The
Commitment shall be issued by the Title Company, without standard exceptions, and
shall bear a date later than the Effective Date, wherein the Title Company is to insure
the title to the Premises in the condition required herein.
3.2. At the time of Closing, Seller shall order and have a Policy of Title Insurance issued
(in the name of Purchaser) pursuant to the Commitment.
3.3. The cost of the Commitment and the Policy of Title Insurance shall be paid for by
Purchaser.
FINAL VERSION 05-22-25 3
3.4. Seller agrees to execute a standard form Owner’s Affidavit at the Closing to assist in
the Purchaser’s efforts to obtain coverage without standard exceptions. In addition to
the representations and warranties contained in said Owner’s Affidavit, Seller agrees
to execute an affidavit indicating the following: (1) Seller is not on notice, whether
actual or anticipated notice, of any pending claims against Seller that would affect
the sale of the Premises, and (2) there are no court orders prohibiting the sale of the
Premises.
4. TITLE OBJECTIONS.
4.1. Purchaser shall have fifteen (15) calendar days after receipt of the Commitment to
object to the condition of the title, based upon written opinion of Purchaser's
attorney, that the title is not marketable or that the Premises are not suitable for
Purchaser’s intended use (collectively “Title Defects”).
4.2. Upon written notice to Seller that, in the opinion of Purchaser’s attorney, there are
Title Defects, Seller shall have thirty (30) calendar days from the date Seller is
notified of such defect(s) to do either of the following: (1) remedy the Title Defects
to Purchaser’s satisfaction at Seller’s sole cost or (2) obtain, at Seller’s sole cost and
expense, a substitute commitment for title insurance insuring, in a manner
satisfactory to Purchaser, Purchaser's title against such Title Defects.
4.3. If Seller fails to remedy the Title Defects or obtain a substitute commitment for title
insurance within said period, Purchaser may do any of the following, at its sole
option: (1) waive the claimed Title Defects and close subject to same, (2) defer the
Closing Date until such time as the claimed Title Defects can be remedied, if such
defects can be remedied in a reasonable time, or (3) terminate this Agreement and
receive a full refund of the Deposit.
4.4. If Seller remedies the Title Defects or obtains a title policy within the time period
and Purchaser does not elect to terminate this Agreement, Purchaser shall complete
the sale of the Premises within fifteen (15) calendar days of written notification
thereof, but no sooner than the Closing Date specified herein.
4.5. For all purposes under this Agreement, all matters appearing on the Commitment and
the New Survey which are not objected to by Purchaser shall be deemed “Permitted
Exceptions.”
5. INSPECTION PERIOD AND DUE DILIGENCE INVESTIGATIONS.
5.1. Inspection Period and Due Diligence Investigation/Examination. Purchaser shall
have ninety (90) calendar days from the Effective Date (“Inspection Period”) to
conduct due diligence property investigations/examinations, including but not limited
to the following: (1) physical inspections, (2) testing of all aspects of the Premises,
(3) above and below ground environmental assessments, (4) building inspections, (5)
review of easements and restrictions of record, (6) investigation of availability and
condition of utility/sewer services, (7) review of any existing service agreements, (8)
FINAL VERSION 05-22-25 4
review of any applicable zoning, building and use restriction, and (9) other
examinations as Purchaser may deem necessary.
5.2. Survey. Purchaser shall, at its expense, obtain an ALTA/ACSM boundary survey of
the Premises (“New Survey”). Purchaser shall have fifteen (15) calendar days from
the receipt of the New Survey to determine if it matches the Premises described in
Exhibit A. If in the written opinion of Purchaser’s attorney, the New Survey does
not match the Premises described in Exhibit A, Seller (at its sole cost) shall have
thirty (30) calendar days from the date Seller is notified, in writing, of the particular
defect(s), to remedy the defects to Purchaser’s satisfaction. If Seller fails to or
cannot remedy the defects, Purchaser may do any of the following, at its sole option:
(1) waive the defects and close subject to same, (2) defer the Closing Date until such
time as the defect(s) can be remedied, or (3) terminate this Agreement. If Seller
remedies the defects and Purchaser does not elect to terminate the Agreement, then
Purchaser shall complete the sale of the Premises within fifteen (15) calendar days of
written notification thereof, but no sooner than the Closing Date specified herein. If
Purchaser terminates this Agreement pursuant to this Section, it shall receive a full
refund of the Deposit.
5.3. Phase I Environmental Assessment.
5.3.1. Purchaser shall, at its sole expense, obtain a Phase I Environmental Site
Assessment ("Phase 1”) performed consistent with applicable ASTM
standards.
5.3.2. If Purchaser is not satisfied with the results of the Phase I, for any reason,
then Purchaser may do any of the following, at its sole option and cost: (1)
terminate this Agreement and receive a full refund of the Deposit or (2)
commission a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment (“Phase II”).
Purchaser shall notify Seller within fifteen (15) calendar days after receipt
of the Phase I if it elects to terminate this Agreement for environmental
reasons or perform a Phase II.
5.3.3. If Purchaser elects to perform a Phase II, then the Inspection Period shall
automatically extend for another one hundred and eighty (180) calendar
days from the date Purchaser notified Seller of such election. If Purchaser
is not satisfied with the results of the Phase II, for any reason, then
Purchaser may terminate this Agreement and receive a full refund of the
Deposit.
5.4. Purchaser may perform any other investigations during the Inspection Period that it,
in its sole discretion, shall deem appropriate.
5.5. Seller shall, no later than five (5) calendar days after the Effective Date, turn over to
Purchaser copies of any and all documents and information Seller has related to the
Premises, including but not limited to, wetland reports, environmental reports,
FINAL VERSION 05-22-25 5
surveys, soil reports, easements, deed restrictions, past title commitments, etc….
Should Seller delay in turning over the above-referenced documents/information,
then the Inspection Period shall extend one day for each day such
documents/information is not turned over to Purchaser.
5.6. Nothing in this Agreement will prohibit the Parties from modifying or extending the
Closing Date if such changes are necessary based upon the due diligence property
investigations. Such modification or extension must be in writing and signed by both
Parties. A modification or extension under this Section may be approved and
executed by the Oakland County Board of Commissioners Chairperson.
5.7. Notwithstanding any other provision in this Agreement, upon the expiration of the
Inspection Period or within seven (7) calendar days thereafter or at any time during
the Inspection Period, Purchaser may terminate this Agreement, in its sole discretion,
by giving written notice to Seller that it is not satisfied with the condition of the
Premises, as evidenced by the due diligence investigations. If Purchaser terminates
this Agreement pursuant to this Section, Purchaser shall be entitled to a full refund of
the Deposit.
5.8. This Agreement is contingent upon the due diligence investigations and requirements
set forth in this Section.
6. CLOSING, AND CLOSING DOCUMENTS.
6.1. If this offer is accepted by Seller and the Oakland County Board of Commissioners
pursuant to Section 1.2 and if Seller can convey fee simple, marketable title and
comply with all of contingencies set forth in this Agreement, then Purchaser shall
complete the sale within fifteen (15) business days of the expiration of the Inspection
Period (“Closing Date” or “Closing”).
6.2. The Closing shall be held at the offices of the Title Company. The Title Company
will prepare the necessary documents for signatures.
6.3. Seller, at least five (5) calendar days prior to the Closing Date, shall submit to
Purchaser all closing documents required for this sale.
6.4. Seller shall sign and deliver at Closing, a statutory form warranty deed conveying fee
simple, marketable title to the Premises inclusive of all minerals rights or royalties, if
any, (pursuant to Michigan law) in the condition required by this Agreement and a
Non-Foreign Persons Affidavit.
6.5. All financial encumbrances upon the Premises shall be paid and discharged by Seller
prior to the Closing Date or shall be paid and discharged using the purchase money
for the Premises.
6.6. Seller shall pay for the recording of the Warranty Deed, any notary fees, and all the
property transfer taxes.
FINAL VERSION 05-22-25 6
6.7. At the Closing, Seller will sign an Affidavit of No Liens on the Title Company's
standard form, sufficient to permit the Title Company to delete the standard Schedule
B exceptions.
6.8. At the Closing, Seller will sign a Certificate of Accuracy, regarding the
Representations made by Seller in Section 12.
6.9. Seller and Purchaser will sign and/or prepare any other documents necessary to
complete the sale and transfer of the Premises.
6.10. Seller will provide to Purchaser an accounting of all rents and fees, if any, that
pertain to the Premises and were paid to Seller for periods that extend beyond the
Closing Date. Those rents that are for periods that extend beyond the Closing Date
shall be prorated back to the Closing Date and Seller shall tender to Purchaser a
cashiers check in the amount of those prorated rents, as well as for any other
adjustments or charges as reflected by the closing statement.
6.11. Seller shall be responsible to pay all current property taxes, any delinquent property
taxes, special assessments, or IRS liens on the property. All other property taxes
shall be the responsibility of the Seller.
6.12. Purchaser shall name a trail, natural feature, or erect a commentative sign on the
Premises, at the discretion and choice of Purchaser, after the time long-owner of the
Premises and avid outdoors man, Todd Ralph Hudson.
7. POSSESSION. Purchaser shall have possession of the Premises on the Closing Date.
8. RIGHT OF ENTRY AND ACCESS.
8.1. During this Agreement, Purchaser and its employees, contractors, and agents shall
have the right to enter and access the Premises at reasonable times for the purpose of
surveying, testing, performing environmental impact studies, site planning, and other
inspections or testing Purchaser deems necessary or desirable to determine if the
Premises are suitable for Purchaser’s use.
8.2. All inspections or testing shall be coordinated with Seller.
8.3. In the event that this sale does not take place, Purchaser, at its own expense, shall
restore the Premises to substantially the same condition that existed on the date this
Agreement was executed; to the extent such restoration is necessary due to
Purchaser’s actions.
9. DEFAULT OF SELLER. In the event Seller shall default in the performance of its
obligations herein, Purchaser, in addition to other remedies provided by law, may, in its sole
discretion, elect to proceed under either 9.1 or 9.2, but not both.
FINAL VERSION 05-22-25 7
9.1. Purchaser may specifically enforce this Agreement and require specific performance
of this Agreement by judicial decree; or
9.2. Purchaser may terminate this Agreement and receive a full refund of the Deposit.
10. DEFAULT OF PURCHASER. In the event Purchaser shall materially default in the
performance of its obligations herein, Seller may declare that Purchaser has forfeited all
rights hereunder and retain the Deposit as liquidated damages. The retention of the deposit
by Seller shall cancel this Agreement and be in full and final satisfaction of any and all
claims that Seller may bring against Purchaser.
11. RISK OF LOSS. No risk of loss shall pass to Purchaser prior to the Closing Date. Except as
otherwise provided in this Agreement, Purchaser acknowledges the following: (1) Seller has
made no representations or warranties with respect to the Premises; (2) the inspection rights set
forth in this Agreement are sufficient to enable Purchaser to inspect the Premises to determine if
they are satisfactory to Purchaser.
12. WARRANTIES BY SELLER. Seller warrants to Purchaser and certifies the following by
execution of this Agreement:
12.1. Seller has full authority to enter into and perform this Agreement in accordance with
its conditions, without breaching or defaulting any obligation or commitment that
Seller has to any third parties; Seller will provide Purchaser with any necessary
resolutions, waivers and consents or other documents that verify Seller has the
requisite authority;
12.2. Seller is the fee simple owner of the Premises and will discharge any liens or other
encumbrances prior to the Closing Date;
12.3. To Seller’s knowledge, the legal description set forth in Exhibit A is an accurate
description of the Premises and does not include any adjacent or contiguous land
owned by Seller or any third party;
12.4. To Seller’s knowledge, there are no leases, rights of first refusal, contracts, or other
agreements of any kind with respect to the Premises, which would impair
Purchaser’s right to receive fee title absolute;
12.5. To Seller’s knowledge, there are no lawsuits, actions, or proceedings pending or
threatened by any party, including governmental authorities or agencies, against or
involving the Premises which would affect Seller's ability to convey the Premises;
12.6. Seller has no notice or knowledge of any of the following:
12.6.1. any planned or commenced public improvements that might result in
special assessments or otherwise directly and materially affect the Premises;
FINAL VERSION 05-22-25 8
12.6.2. any government agency or court order requiring corrections of any existing
conditions; and
12.6.3. any request by an insurer or a mortgagee of the Premises requiring
correction of any existing conditions; and
12.7. Seller has not used the Premises for the purpose of disposing, refining, generating,
manufacturing, producing, storing, handling, treating, transferring, processing or
transporting Hazardous Materials. As used in this Agreement, the term "Hazardous
Materials" shall mean any hazardous or toxic substances, wastes or materials, or
flammable explosives, including, without limitation, those described in the
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980,
as amended, the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act, as amended, the Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act, Parts 20, 211 and 213 of the Natural Resources
Environmental Protection Act, and all rules, regulations and policies promulgated
thereto (collectively, the "Environmental Laws").
13. WARRANTIES BY THE PURCHASER. Purchaser warrants the following to Seller:
13.1. Purchaser is a Michigan Constitutional and Municipal Corporation; and
13.2. Purchaser has full authority and funding to enter into and perform this Agreement in
accordance with its conditions.
14. SURVIVAL OF THE WARRANTIES. The warranties of the Parties contained in this
Agreement shall survive for two (2) years after the Closing Date.
15. LIABILITY. Seller shall indemnify, hold harmless, and defend Purchaser from any and all
alleged losses, claims, suits, causes of action, litigation, or other demands for damages of any
kind, pertaining to the Premises (including attorney fees) prior to the Closing Date, except
those losses, claims, suits, causes of action, litigation, or other demands for damages, arising
solely out of the acts of Purchaser or its employees, contractors, or agent(s) while performing
any surveys or due diligence inspections of the Premises prior to the Closing Date. Seller
shall be responsible for paying any and all judgments, damages awarded, costs and expenses
(including attorney fees and court costs) and any other liabilities that result from any such
alleged losses, claims, suits, causes of action, litigation, or other demands for damages of any
kind pertaining to the Premises prior to the Closing Date, except as noted above in this
Section.
16. CONDEMNATION/EMINENT DOMAIN.
16.1. In the event that all or any portion of the Premises shall be taken by the exercise of
eminent domain or condemnation proceedings prior to the Closing Date, Purchaser
may, at its option, terminate this Agreement by giving written notice to Seller. If
Purchaser elects to terminate this Agreement as a result of a condemnation
proceeding or exercise of eminent domain, then Purchaser shall receive a full refund
of the Deposit.
FINAL VERSION 05-22-25 9
16.2. If Purchaser does not elect to terminate this Agreement in the event of the exercise of
eminent domain or condemnation, Purchaser shall accept title to the Premises
without any reduction of the purchase price and Seller shall assign to Purchaser at
Closing all of Seller’s right, title, and interest in and to any resulting condemnation
award.
17. NOTICE. Any notice, request, demand, consent, approval or other communication given
hereunder shall be in writing and shall be sent by registered or certified mail, return receipt
requested, addressed to the other Party at its address as set forth below:
Seller:
Purchaser: Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission
Attention: Director
2800 Watkins Lake Road
Waterford, Michigan 48328
Property Management Specialist
County of Oakland Department of Facilities Management
One Public Works Dr.
Waterford, Michigan 48328
248-858-5380
17.1. Any Party may change its address for notice by providing notice as required by this
Section. Any notice by either Party shall be sufficient if signed on behalf of said
Party by any elected or appointed official thereof.
18. TIME OF THE ESSENCE. Time is of the essence for this Agreement.
19. COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS. The Parties shall comply with all federal, state, and local
laws, statutes, ordinances, and regulations, applicable to their activities under this
Agreement.
20. NO IMPLIED WAIVER. Absent a written waiver, no act, failure to act, or delay to act by a
Party to pursue or enforce any right or remedy under this Agreement shall constitute a
waiver of those rights with regard to any existing or subsequent breach of this Agreement.
No waiver of any term, condition, or provision of this Agreement, whether by conduct or
otherwise, in one or more instances, shall be deemed or construed as a continuing waiver of
any term, condition, or provision of this Agreement. No waiver by either Party shall
subsequently affect its right to require strict performance of this Agreement.
21. SEVERABILITY. If a court of competent jurisdiction finds a term, condition, or provision
of this Agreement to be illegal or invalid, then the term, condition, or provision shall be
deemed severed from this Agreement. All other terms, conditions, and provisions of this
Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.
FINAL VERSION 05-22-25 10
22. CAPTIONS. The section and subsection numbers, captions, and any index to such sections
and 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. Any use of the singular or plural
number, any reference to the male, female, or neuter genders, and any possessive or
nonpossessive use in this Agreement shall be deemed the appropriate plurality, gender or
possession as the context requires.
23. AGREEMENT MODIFICATIONS OR AMENDMENTS. Any modifications, amendments,
rescissions, waivers, or releases to this Agreement must be in writing and signed by both
Parties.
24. 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 Court of the State of 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.
25. COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterpart copies,
all of which together shall constitute and be deemed an original and shall constitute one
and the same instrument binding on the Parties.
26. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This document 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. 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.
FINAL VERSION 05-22-25 12
EXHIBIT A – LEGAL DESCRIPTIONS
649 W Walton Boulevard, Pontiac Michigan 48340-1052
T3N, R10E, SEC 7 PART OF SW 1/4 BEG AT PT DIST S 02-04-30 E 2682.58 FT & N 87-38-
22 E 513.39 FT FROM W 1/4 COR, TH N 02-04-30 W 634.29 FT, TH N 89-15-07 E 250.07 FT,
TH S 02-04-30 E 627.25 FT, TH S 87-38-22 W 250 FT TO BEG 3.62 A 4-21-03 FR 005.
Parcel Number: 14-07-376-013
675 W Walton Boulevard, Pontiac Michigan 48340-1052
T3N, R10E, SEC 7 PART OF SW 1/4 BEG AT PT DIST S 02-04-30 E 1983.32 FT & N 89-15-
07 E 228.41 FT FROM W 1/4 COR, TH N 89-15-07 E 135.01 FT, TH S 02-04-30 E 689.03 FT,
TH S 87-38-22 W 134.98 FT, TH N 02-04-30 W 692.83 FT TO BEG EXC NLY 50 FT TAKEN
FOR RD 1.98 A 10-29-91 FR 006 Parcel Number: 14-07-352-016
677 W Walton Boulevard, Pontiac Michigan 48340-1052
T3N, R10E, SEC 7 PART OF SW 1/4 BEG AT PT DIST S 01-26-40 W 1981.37 FT & S 87-52-
50 E 367.52 FT FROM W 1/4 COR, TH S 01-26-40 W 687.91 FT, TH S 89-31-40 E 117.50 FT,
TH N 01-26-40 E 685.32 FT, TH N 87-52-50 W 117.51 FT TO BEG EXC NLY 50 FT TAKEN
FOR RD, ALSO W 32.50 FT OF FOLLOWING DESC PARCEL BEG AT PT DIST S 02-04-30
E 2682.58 FT & N 87-38-22 E 480.89 FT FROM W 1/4 COR, TH N 02-04-30 W 685.23 FT,
TH N 89-15-07 E 85.72 FT, TH N 86-29-39 E 316.14 FT, TH N 01-16-24 W 60.05 FT, TH N
86-29-39 E 1064.10 FT, TH S 02-15-09 E 770.42 FT, TH S 87-38-22 W 1468.77 FT TO BEG
2.19 A 7-26-94 FR 018 & 376-004 Parcel Number: 14-07-352-019
77.33 acres
18.97 acres
17.36 acres
Pontiac Oaks
TOTAL: 113.66 acres
PROPOSED TOTAL: 121.88 acres
PROPOSED
8.22 acres
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 3
Department: Administration
From: Chris Ward, Director
Subject: Recognizing July 2025 as Park and Recreation Month
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
Attached for the Commission’s consideration and approval is a proposed resolution recognizing
July 2025 as Park and Recreation Month. The Board of Commissioners will present this
designation as a proclamation at its full Board July 17, 2025 meeting.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission approve the attached
proposed resolution recognizing July 2025 as Park and Recreation Month.
MOTION
Move to adopt the proposed resolution in support of proclaiming July 2025 as Park and Recreation
Month.
RETURN TO AGENDA
IN RE: PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION – RECOGNIZING JULY 2025 AS PARK
AND RECREATION MONTH
To: Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission
Chairperson, Ladies and Gentlemen:
WHEREAS park and recreation agencies across the country, including in Oakland County, foster
a sense of belonging in their community by providing welcoming and inclusive programs, essential
services for all ages and abilities, and safe, accessible spaces to build meaningful connection;
and
WHEREAS for nearly 60 years, the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission has been
dedicated to providing all residents with quality recreation experiences and spaces that support
healthy lifestyles, promote the protection of natural resources and enhance the quality of life
throughout Oakland County; and
WHEREAS Oakland County Parks plays a vital role in the protection of our environment through
green infrastructure, maintenance of public lands, and preserving wildlife habitats and advocates
for our land, water, trees, open spaces and wildlife; and
WHEREAS parks and recreation professionals provide spaces, programs and services essential
to Oakland County’s vitality and advances health equity, improving individual and community-
level health outcomes, and enhancing quality of life; and
WHEREAS parks, playgrounds, trails, beaches, nature centers and green spaces make
communities more attractive and desirable places to live, work, play and visit, which contributes
significantly to the ongoing economic health and resiliency of those communities and their
residents; and
WHEREAS since 1985, people in the United States have celebrated Park and Recreation Month
in July to promote building strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of parks
and recreation, and to recognize the hundreds of thousands of parks and recreation professionals,
employees and volunteers that provide exceptional programming and maintain our beautiful
parks.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission proclaims July 2025 as Park and Recreation Month and encourages all county
residents to celebrate by visiting a new or favorite park and by participating in their choice of
recreation activities.
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 4
Department: Administration
From: Chris Ward, Director
Subject: Creation of Deputy Director position
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
As organizations grow in scope, complexity, and responsibility – particularly in public
sector agencies like Parks and Recreation – it becomes increasingly important to
establish a staff leadership structure that can meet these challenges and ensure we
continue to innovate and evolve as circumstances require. During the past six months
since our millage proposal was approved, it’s become increasingly clear that the support
of a Deputy Director is necessary to keep pace with the challenges of leading our
department.
Deputy Director/Assistant Administrator positions currently exist in other county
departments headed by an appointed Director/Administrator, including Economic
Development, Human Resources, Circuit Court Admin, and District Court Admin.
A Deputy Director can oversee day-to-day operations, supervise key departments, and
lead complex initiatives, freeing the Director to focus on strategic planning, partnerships,
and governance.
Most high-performing public agencies – especially in large or growing jurisdictions – adopt
an executive leadership structure with a Director and Deputy Director. This alignment with
best practices ensures the organization remains competitive, adaptable, and well-
positioned for grant funding, accreditation, and partnerships.
I am requesting your support to finalize work with the Human Resources Department to
develop a new job classification of Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation and request
approval of the Board of Commissioners to create the position.
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Move to authorize the Director to proceed with the development of an appointed Deputy
Director of Parks and Recreation job classification in consultation with the Human
Resources Department and to request approval of the Board of Commissioners to create
the position.
RETURN TO AGENDA
2800 Watkins Lake Road, Waterford, MI 48328
248-858-0906 OaklandCountyParks.com
Memo
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Chris Ward
Date: May 22, 2025
Re: Director’s Report
Detroit Community’s Choice Awards
Each year, the Detroit Community’s Choice Awards recognizes over 300 businesses and organizations,
all thanks to community involvement! Completely driven by public participation, the program begins with
nominations and voting determines the finalists and winners in each category. White Lake Oaks Golf
Course was chosen by the community and won as the best in the area in the Sports & Fitness Category.
See the full list of categories and winners here: https://yourchoiceawards.com/detroit/
SPDF Sponsors
As staff prepare to host more than 120 people from park districts all over the country at the Special Park
District’s Forum (SPDF) next week, we wanted to take a moment to inform the Commission of our very
generous sponsors of this event. Oakland County works with incredible vendors who often support us in
other ways, such as sponsoring this exciting educational and networking event that OCPR is co-hosting
with the Metroparks, Michigan DNR and Wayne County Parks. Our sponsors for the 2025 conference
include:
MidStates Recreation - Presenting Sponsor
Carhartt - Platinum Sponsor
Rolls Mechanical - Gold Sponsor*
DLZ - Silver Sponsor*
DeMaria - Silve Sponsor*
NACPRO - Silver Sponsor
Nowak & Fraus Engineers - Bronze Sponsor*
Giffels Webster - Bronze Sponsor*
Stantec - Bronze Sponsor*
AKA Architects - Bronze Sponsor*
Crimson - Bronze Sponsor*
Discraft - Bronze Sponsor*
City of Dearborn - Bronze Sponsor
Anglin Civil - Bronze Sponsor*
RETURN TO AGENDA
Spartan Distributors - Friend Sponsor
OHM - Friend Sponsor*
National Restoration - Friend Sponsor*
MAX Lifts - Friend Sponsor
4imprint - Friend Sponsor
Skips Livery - Friend Sponsor
Hubbell, Roth & Clark - Friend Sponsor
*Current or former Oakland County vendor
Whimsical Woodlands 2025 Event Summary
See attached document for the full 2025 event summary.
Whimsical Woodlands 2025 Event Summary
Hosted at Johnson Nature Center
Sunday, April 27, 2025 from 10am-4pm
Presented by Oakland County Parks
This year’s Whimsical Woodlands event welcomed a vibrant crowd of nature lovers, families, and community
members for a magical day immersed in the beauty of nature at Johnson Nature Center in Bloomfield Twp.
Drawing approximately 1,100 guests out onto the trails, this free event transformed the forest into an
enchanting world of creativity, outdoor adventure, and environmental appreciation.
The event’s success was made possible due to the strong partnership with Oakland County Parks, whose
generous support elevated the experience for the community. Their involvement included the provision of two
buses to assist with offsite parking logistics, a climbing tower, promotional support, a hippocampi trail chair, a
popular archery activity station, and a sponsorship that helped bring key features of the event to life.
We are deeply grateful for the invaluable support and collaboration of our partners, which also included the
Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Farmington Nature Center, Girl Scouts of Southeastern
Michigan, Bowers School Farm, Alpine Crossings Family Farm, Friends of Johnson Nature Center, North Hills
Middle School, and the Bloomfield Township Public Library.
The event offered a wide variety of engaging activities for all ages. Highlights included:
Live music with interactive performances, inviting audience participation and enhancing the festive
atmosphere.
A life-sized log cabin fairy house, brought to life by costumed actors and storytellers, offering immersive
storytelling experiences.
Earth-friendly crafts and hands-on nature activities promoting environmental education.
Fishing with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, providing a unique outdoor experience for
budding anglers.
A charming trail display of over 50 community-built fairy houses and gnome homes, creatively nestled
throughout the forest and delighting trail-goers of all ages.
A variety of local vendors offering a variety of handmade and nature-inspired goods.
Whimsical Woodlands 2025 not only engaged our community in whimsical imagination and outdoor play but
also fostered a sense of stewardship and environmental awareness. With enthusiastic participation and the
valuable support of partners like Oakland County Parks, this event has opportunity to grow further as a
beloved annual tradition and unique draw for the region.
Event Survey Report
Event images by
Enchanted Photography
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Upcoming Events – June 2025
Active Adults
June 18 Cruise Crooked Lake – Independence Oaks
June 20 Senior Picnic – Madison Heights
June 30 After Hours 50 Plus – Red Oaks Waterpark
June-August Riverwalk (Monday – Thursday)
Adaptive
June 1 Disability Dirt Day – Holly Oaks
June 5 DNEM Bike Clinic – Independence Oaks
June 12 Adaptive Cycling – Independence Oaks
June 17 Adaptive Golf Clinic – Red Oaks
June 26 DivserAbility Day – Independence Oaks
History
June 5 Presentation at Pontiac Transportation Museum
June 10 Presentation for Oakland County Assessors
June 14 Archeological Dig – Addison Oaks
June 17 Presentation at Brandon Public Library
June 24 Sunset on Crooked Lake – Independence Oaks
June 25 History Coalition of Oakland County
June 28 Presentation for White Lake Historical Society
Groveland Oaks Campground
June 7 Off Season Fun, Trail/Scavenger Hunt Contest on Own
June 13 Celebrate Parents, Family Movie
June 14 Bee Visit with presentation, hive, craft, games and honey tasting, Hennah
Tattoos, Family Craft, $3 Train Rides, DJ Steve
June 15 Basketball Contest
June 20 Lake Life, Family Movie
June 21 $3 Train Rides, Tattoos, Fishing/BIG Games & Conest, Fishing with the Staff,
DJ Steve
June 22 Fun Sports
June 27 Animal Antics, Family Movie
June 28 Nature Center Visit, Zany Zoo Inflatables, Animal Crafts, Dan Dan the Creature
Man, $3 Train, DJ Steve
June 29 Fun Sports
Holly Oaks ORV
June 6 & 7 Free ORV Weekend
Mobile Recreation
June 1 Bouncer - Waterford Kettering High School Class of 2025 All Night Party
June 1 Bus & Tent - OCPRC - Adaptive Rec Disability Dirt Day
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Upcoming Events – June 2025
June 1 Chaos and Commotion - Waterford Mott Pool & Fitness Senior Sunset
June 3 Arctic Rush & Jumbo Games - Oakview School, Special Education Outdoor Day
June 3 Chaos and Commotion -Andersonville Elementary Picnic Clintonwood Park
June 3 Jump N' Jam - North Sashabaw Elementary Field Day
June 3 Go Games! - Kennedy School Field Day
June 3 Bouncer - Herrington Elementary Field Day
June 4 Stage - Dearborn Heights Parks & Rec
June 4 Bouncer - School for the Mind and Body End of School
June 4 Arctic Rush - Greenfield Elementary Field Day
June 4 Climbing Tower & Chaos - North Hill PTA 5th Grade Farewell Party
June 4 Climbing Tower & Bouncer Webber Elementary Family Fun Night
June 5 Stage - Oxford Twp P & R Seymour Festival
June 5 Tent - OCPRC - Adaptive Rec Pride Event Courthouse
June 5 Stage & Go Games - Oakland County DEI, Pride County Market
June 5 Chaos and Commotion - Delta Kelly Elementary 5th Grade Graduation
June 5 Climbing Tower, Go Games, & Fun-Struction - Oakridge Elementary School
June 5 Jump N' Jam - Wixom Family Fun Night
June 6 Stage - Lyon Events Org. Kite Fest James Atchison Memorial Park
June 6 Climbing Tower - Holly elementary School Field Day
June 6 Climbing Tower - Davisburg Elementary Field Day Davisburg Elementary
June 6 Climbing Tower, Chaos, & Go Games - Dublin Elementary Ice Cream Social
June 6 Jump N' Jam - Helen Keller Elementary Fun Fair
June 7 Pirate Paradise - Little Guide LLC Safety Day
June 7 Bouncer - Lyon Events Organization, 16th Annual Lyon Twp International Kite
June 7 Chaos and Commotion - Orion Twp Public Library Reading Kickoff Orion Twp
June 7 Jump N' Jam - Ferndale P & R Geary Park Skate Jam Geary Park
June 7 Tent, Go Games, Arctic Rush, & Stage Pure Oakland Water Art, Fish, Fun
June 7 Putt It - Ferndale Area District Library Summer Reading Kick-Off
June 7 Climbing Tower - Milford P & R Spring Picnic Milford Twp
June 7 Chaos and Commotion Abigail's Pride, Pride in the Park Abigail's Pride
June 7 Fun-Struction - Troy Public Library Summer Library Program Kick-off Troy
June 8 Mobile Stage - Leader Dog for the Blind, Barks and Brews 5k Frank
June 8 Fun-Struction - Lyon Events Organization 16th Annual Lyon Twp Kite Festival
June 8 Climbing Tower & Obstacle - Kingsbury Country Day School Kpa School Fair
June 9 Bus (2) - OCPRC - Rec Program Service Parks Conference
June 9 Climbing Tower - Commerce Elementary End of the Year Party
June 9 Zany Zoo - McGregor Elementary PTA, 5th Grade Farewell
June 10 Chaos and Commotion & Go Games - Baldwin Elementary 5th Grade Party
June 10 Climbing Tower - Grayson Elementary 5th Grade Promotion
June 10 Stage - OCPRC - Rec Program Service SPDF Milliken State Park
June 10 Jump N' Jam & Tower - Loon Lake Elementary Summer Send Off
June 11 Tents - Sheriffs Dept Michigan Fallen Heroes Memorial Cookout
June 11 Go Games! - Oakland Family Services End of Year
June 11 Fun-Struction - Clarenceville Summer Camp UNO your Friends
June 11 Stage - Lyon Twp DDA - Concert Series New Hudson Methodist Church
June 11 Jump N' Jam - Lyon Twp DDA Music on the Grand
June 11 Climbing Tower - Clawson Middle School Eighth Grade Promotion Celebration
June 12 Tent - OCPRC - Independence tent Twin Chimneys
June 12 Bleachers & Stage - Great Lakes Academy Graduation
June 12 Tent - OCPRC - Adaptive Rec Special Parks Forum Holly Oaks
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Upcoming Events – June 2025
June 12 Chaos - Farmington Hills Kickoff to Summer-Free Community Event
June 12 Stick-It Archery - Ferndale P & R Pajama Movie Night Ferndale Parks
June 12 Tower - Holly Area Community Coalition Teen Block Party
June 13 Stage - Oakland Twp P & R Music in the Meadows Bear Creek Nature Park
June 13 Chaos Pirate - Huntington Woods Public Library Bounce into Summer reading
June 13 Bouncer, Go Games, Fun-Struction - Royal Oak Public Library Summer Reading
June 13 Arctic Rush – Brandon Twp Parks and Rec Movie in the Park
June 13 Climbing Tower - Greentrees North, Ice Cream Social
June 14 Bleachers - Pontiac Juneteenth Freedom Day Parade & Festival
June 14 Stage – Pontiac Juneteenth Event
June 14 Climbing Tower - Milford Public Library Summer Reading Kickoff
June 14 Putt It - Macomb Twp P & R Tons o' Trucks Seneca Middle School
June 14 Campground Archery - OCPRC - Addison Oaks Addison
June 14 Go Games! - Lyon Township Public Library Summer Reading Kickoff
June 14 Climbing Tower - Madison Heights Citizens United Juneteenth Celebration
June 14 Stage - Royal Oak Twp P & R Concert Series Mack Rowe Park
June 14 Chaos and Commotion - City of Troy 70th Birthday Party
June 14 Bouncer & Jump N' Jam - Royal Oak Parks and Rec Juneteenth Celebration
June 15 Climbing Tower - City of Troy Touch-A-Truck Troy
June 15 Stage - Smith, Don-Avon Car Show Greenfield Rd
June 17 Bus - Leadership Oakland Junior Leadership Oakland
June 17 Go Games! - Salem South Lyon District Library Summer Reading Kick-off
June 17 Jump N' Jam & Fun-Struction - Walled Lake City Library Summer Reading
June 17 Chaos and Commotion - Ferndale Summer Day Camp
June 17 Pirate Paradise - Village of Wolverine Lake Tuesdays in the Park
June 18 Bus – OCPRC Bus Tour
June 18 Stage, Tents, and Go Games - OCPRC - RPS Juneteenth County Courthouse
June 18 Chaos and Commotion - Sylvan Lake Summer Blastoff
June 19 Stage - West Bloomfield Twp Parks & Rec Juneteenth Celebration
June 19 Fun-Struction - Oxford Early Learn Summer Camp
June 19 Climbing Tower- Royal Oak Juneteenth Celebration City of Royal Oak
June 19 Chaos and Commotion – Wixom Family Fun Night
June 20 Stage - American Cancer Society Inc Relay for Life Detroit Marygrove College
June 20 Arctic Rush - Madison Heights Parks & Recreation Summer Camp
June 20 Climbing Tower - Huron Clinton Metroparks (HCMA) Family Camping
June 21 Stage - American Cancer Society Inc Relay for Life Detroit Marygrove College
June 21 Stage - Marygrove Conservancy Summer Event
June 21 Jump N' Jam - Orion Twp Public Library 90's Fun Party
June 21 Stage - Holly Area Chamber of Commerce, Concert & Food Trucks
June 21 Giant Curling - Kensington Metropark, Family Camping
June 21 Watch It - Huron Clinton Metroparks (HCMA) Family Camping- Bad Guys
June 24 Stage - Huntington Woods P&R Concert
June 24 Giant Curling & Arctic Rush - Lake Orion Community Enrichment Camp Chill
June 24 Jump N' Jam - Southfield P & R Summer Camp Southfield Sports Arena
June 24 Climbing Tower & Chaos - Huntington Woods P&R Concert in the Park
June 25 Climbing Tower - Brandon Twp Library Summer Reading
June 25 Go Games! Brandon Twp. Library, Reading Kick-Off Library
June 25 Climbing Tower - Lyon Twp DDA Touch a Truck
June 25 Bus - OCPRC - Adaptive Rec Diversability Day
June 25 Stage - Lyon Twp DDA Summer Concert Series New Hudson Methodist Church
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Upcoming Events – June 2025
June 25 Pirate Paradise & ClimbingTower - Rochester Hills Festival of the Hills
June 26 Pirate Paradise & Fun-Struction - Oakland University Summer Camp
June 26 Stage - Berkley P and R Concert Oxford Park
June 26 Stage - Macomb Twp Parks and Recreation Concert Series Macomb Corners
June 26 Go Games! - OCPRC - Adaptive Rec Twin Chimneys
June 26 Tents - OCPRC - Mobile Rec & Special Events Wheels and Squeals BMX
June 26 Arctic Rush - Orion Twp Community Programs Summer Sizzle-Community
June 26 Jump N' Jam - Wixom, City of Family Fun Night
June 26 Climbing Tower & Pirate Paradise - Springview Community Church Bible School
June 27 Stick-It Archery - Leader Dogs Rochester Summer Camp
June 27 Climbing Tower - MSU Tollgate Farm Summer Camp
June 27 Chaos and Commotion - Bloomfield Hills Schools Summer Camp
June 28 Stages (2) - Grosse Point Parks and Rec Kercheval
June 28 Zany Zoo OCPRC - Campground Rec Groveland
June 28 Pirate Paradise - West Bloomfield Twp Parks & Rec Summer on the Bank
June 28 Zany Zoo - OCPRC Addison Oaks
June 28 Tower, Stage, & Jump N’ Jam - Highland DDA Red, White, and Blues Fest
June 29 Stage & Bleachers - Living Waters Church Youth Service
June 29 Stage - M1 Concourse Event
June 29 Bouncer - Work Picnic Waterford Oaks
June 29 Chaos and Climbing Tower - Meadows Automotive Work Picnic Parkview Tent
June 29 Climbing Tower - Madison Heights Parks & Recreation Food Truck Rally
Nature Education
Field Trips & Birthday Parties
June 4 FT Waterford Schools Wint
June 4 FT Wee Love Daycare RONC
June 6 FT Waterford Schools Wint
June 6 FT Oakland County
June 7 FT Scout Pack 1589
June 8 BP Josie turns 6 Wint
June 8 BP Elaina turns 8 RONC
June 10 BP Chase turns 6 Wint
June 11 FT American House Lakeshore RONC
June 11 FT Children’s Ark Wint
June 14 FT Oakland Audubon Young Birders RONC
June 14 BP Grayson turns 8 RONC
June 15 BP Julia turns 8 Wint
June 17 FT Oakland Christian Summer Camp Wint
June 18 FT StarLab Madison Heights Active Adult Center RONC
June 19 FT Archery Camp with Wint
June 24 FT Pontiac United Ed Coalition Group Wint
June 28 BP Madelyn turns 5 RONC
Public Nature Programs
June 5 ECHO Wint
June 6 Morning Munchkins RONC
June 12 ECHO Wint
June 13 Puddle jumpers
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Upcoming Events – June 2025
June 19 ECHO Wint
June 19 Trailblazers RONC
June 20 Walk in the woods RONC
June 25 CABB (Clarkston Area Backyard Birders) Wint
June 26 ECHO Wint
June 27 Walk in the Woods Wint
June 28 Fired up about Fireflies RONC
June 29 Digging in Clay Wint
Oakland County Market
June 1 Spring Flower Days
June 7 Saturday Morning Yoga
June 7 Saturday Morning Tai Chi
June 11 Gleaners Food Distribution
June 19 Lunchtime Yoga
June 25 Gleaners Food Distribution
Springfield Oaks
June 5 Private photo shoot – Ellis Barn
June 6-7 Mane 2 Tail Horse Show – Equestrian Center
June 7-8 Private Wedding – Grand Hall, Event Center
June 21 Buckshots Golf Outing – Golf Course
June 22-26 MSU Horse Camp – Equestrian Center and Event Center
Special Events
June 26 Wheels & Squeals – Waterford Oaks