HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgendas/Packets - 2025.11.05 - 42424Call Meeting to Order
Roll Call
Pledge of Allegiance
Approval of Agenda
Public Comment
PRESENTATIONS/RECOGNITIONS:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
A Staff Introduction - Julie O'Brien Informational Zachary Crane / 240-1079
B Service Award - Donna Folland Informational Ebony Bagley / 497-7991
COMMUNICATIONS/REPORTS:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
C FY2025 Monthly Financial Report Informational Kevin Syoen / 909-8764
D Oakland County Parks Expansion - Bringing parks closer to
residents Informational Chris Ward / 858-4944
REGULAR AGENDA:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
1 2026 Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission
Meeting Schedule
Approval Jami Monte / 858-4603
Approval & Fwd to BOC Jim Dunleavy / 343-6224
Approval & Fwd to BOC Chris Ward / 858-4944
Approval & Fwd to BOC Chris Ward / 858-4944
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
NEW & MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
15
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Approval of Minutes - October 1, 2025 Regular Meeting and October 1, 2025 Closed Session
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
Ebony Bagley, Chair
Wednesday, November 5, 2025 @ 2:00 pm
Independence Oaks - Wint Nature Center, 9501 Sashabaw Road, Clarkston, MI 48348
Regular Monthly Meeting Agenda
Public Access Information
(248)858-0906, Ext. 9, at least three (3) business days in advance of the meeting.
ADJOURNMENT TO: December 3, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. or to the Call of the Chair
https://www.oakgov.com/community/oakland-county-parks/get-involved/parks-commission
October 1, 2025
Commissioner Erickson Gault, in her capacity as a member of the OCPRC Executive Committee, acting
as meeting facilitator in the absence of the elected officers, called the meeting of the Oakland County
Parks and Recreation Commission to order at 1:05 p.m. at the Red Oaks Golf Course, located at 29600
John R Road, Madison Heights, Michigan 48071.
COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT:
Ebony Bagley, Yolanda Smith Charles, Andrea LaFontaine, Ann Erickson Gault, Kate Baker, Lola Banks,
Christine Long, Eric McPherson, Jim Nash, Shanell Weatherspoon
COMMISSION MEMBERS ABSENT WITH NOTICE:
None
OTHERS PRESENT:
PARKS AND RECREATION Chris Ward, Director
Alan Jaros, Deputy Director
Jim Dunleavy, Manager-Park Management & Operations
Melissa Prowse, Manager – Community Services & Accessibility
Sarah Cook-Maylen, Chief – Natural Resources Management
Zach Crane, Supervisor – Design, Engineering & Compliance
Donna Folland, Chief – Planning & Public Engagement
Tom Hughes, Chief – Park Operations – North District
Erik Koppin, Chief – Park Operations – South District
Bill Singleton, Chief – Business Systems
Ashlie Smith, Chief – Nature & Outdoor Education
Brandy Sotke-Boyd, Chief – Recreation Programs & Services
Kevin Syoen, Chief – Budget & Procurement
Zach Zuchowicz, DEI & Community Engagement Coordinator
Ryan Dansescu, Park Supervisor – Red Oaks
Sandy Dorey, Recreation Program Supervisor
Jami Monte, Staff Assistant
Jess Whatley, Associate Planner
Tiffany Mason, Communications & Marketing Assistant
Shannon Kenny, Technical Office Specialist
COUNTY EXECUTIVE’S OFFICE J. David VanderVeen, Project Advisor / former OCPRC Commissioner
MSU EXTENSION Kristi Evans, Director
PUBLIC Nancy Quarles, former OCPRC Commissioner
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Long moved to approve the agenda, as presented. Seconded by Nash.
Motion carried on a voice vote with Bagley, Smith Charles, LaFontaine and Weatherspoon
absent.
OAKLAND COUNTY
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
2800 WATKINS LAKE ROAD, WATERFORD, MICHIGAN 48328
Telephone: (248) 858-0906
REGULAR MEETING
Ebony Bagley, Chair Yolanda Smith Charles
Vice Chair
Andrea LaFontaine
Secretary
Ann Erickson Gault
Kate Baker
Lola Banks
Christine Long
Eric McPherson
Jim Nash
Shanell Weatherspoon
RETURN TO AGENDA
October 1, 2025 Page 2
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
McPherson moved to approve the minutes of the September 3, 2025, regular meeting and
September 3, 2025 Closed Session, as presented. Seconded by Baker.
Motion carried on a voice vote with Bagley, Smith Charles, LaFontaine and Weatherspoon
absent.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
Commissioner Erickson Gault temporarily postponed items A, B and C until all Commissioners arrived.
COMMUNICATIONS/REPORTS
D. FY2025 Monthly Financial Report
Mr. Syoen provided an overview of the FY2025 Monthly Financial Report.
E. Waterpark Season Summary
Mr. Koppin provided an overview of the 2025 waterpark season.
Vice Chair Smith Charles arrived and assumed the role of meeting facilitator.
REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS
1. Martha Foshia Residential Lease – Springfield Oaks
2. Robert Hatt Residential Lease – Groveland Oaks
Long moved to postpone Items 1 and 2 until the next meeting on November 5, 2025. Seconded
by Erickson Gault.
Motion carried on a roll call vote with Bagley and LaFontaine absent.
3. Beaudette Park License Agreement and Consent to Work Amendment
Nash moved to approve the License Agreement and Consent to Work Beaudette Park –
Restroom Facility. Seconded by Baker.
Motion carried on a roll call vote with Bagley and LaFontaine absent.
4. Position Creation – Recreation Program Coordinator
Erickson Gault moved to recommend to the Oakland County Board of Commissioners approval
of the creation of a full-time position dedicated to Active Adult recreation programming.
Seconded by Banks.
Motion carried on a roll call vote with Bagley and LaFontaine absent.
5. Clinton River Oaks Park Partnership Agreement with the City of Rochester
Erickson Gault moved to recommend to the Oakland County Board of Commissioners approval
of the Interlocal Partnership Agreement with the City of Rochester for the operation and
management of approximately 48 acres of city-owned property to be incorporated into Clinton
River Oaks Park, and authorize the Director of Oakland County Parks and Recreation to finalize
agreement language with Corporation Counsel. Seconded by Weatherspoon.
October 1, 2025 Page 3
Long moved to amend the main motion to add “and the Parks Commission requests that the
Board of Commissioners approve the Clinton River Oaks Plan in full, or defer the action until the
Parks and Recreation Commission determines whether it will recommend proceeding with a
partial plan.” Seconded by Erickson Gault.
Motion to amend carried on a roll call vote with Bagley absent.
Main motion, as amended, carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
Chair Bagley arrived and assumed the role of meeting facilitator.
PRESENTATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
A. Service Award – Nancy Quarles
Chair Bagley recognized and thanked Nancy Quarles for her service on the Oakland County Parks and
Recreation Commission.
B. Service Award – J. David VanderVeen
Chair Bagley recognized and thanked J. Davide VanderVeen for his service on the Oakland County
Parks and Recreation Commission.
C. Service Award – Melissa Prowse
Chair Bagley recognized and thanked Melissa Prowse for her work in the Oakland County Parks and
Recreation department.
REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS
6. Policy on Naming of Parks, Facilities, and Amenities
Smith Charles moved to adopt the Policy on Naming of Parks, Facilities, and Amenities as the
official policy of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission. Seconded by Banks.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
Erickson Gault moved to designate the park name of the Turtle Woods property as “Turtle Woods
Nature Discovery Park”. Seconded by Nash.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
Smith Charles moved that three members of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission, to be designated by the Chair, are hereby authorized to enter into negotiations with
the Waterford School Board for the purpose of reaching a mutually acceptable solution regarding
the naming of the park established under the existing partnership agreement between the
parties. Seconded by Baker.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
7. Mission 26 Update & Commissioner Engagement Opportunity
Commissioners volunteered to lead or co-facilitate the following stakeholder meetings:
1. Economic & Cultural Partnerships – McPherson, Smith Charles
2. Education & Learning – Bagley, Weatherspoon, Banks
3. Environmental & Natural Resources Stewardship – Smith Charles, Weatherspoon, Nash
4. Health & Wellbeing – Long, Bagley
October 1, 2025 Page 4
5. Universal Accessibility – Erickson Gault, Baker, Long
6. Volunteerism & Civic Engagement – Baker, LaFontaine, Banks
8. Frost School Partnership Pilot – MOU/License Proposal for Immediate Activation
Nash moved to authorize the OCPRC Executive Committee to review and approve the final
MOU/license agreement on behalf of the full Commission, allowing the partnership to move
forward more quickly while maintaining appropriate oversight. Seconded by Smith Charles.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
NEW & MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS
9. Director’s Report
Director Ward provided an overview of his report and also discussed .
10. Executive Committee Update
Chair Bagley stated that she attended the NRPA Annual Conference and a few trends stood out, such
as adult play, portable recreation, fancy dog parks, outdoor fitness and school pathways to employment.
CLOSED SESSION
11. Pursuant to MCL 15.268(d) – Discussion to consider the purchase or lease of real property
Baker 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 McPherson.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
The Commission went into Closed Session at 3:27 p.m.
The Commission reconvened in Open Session at 4:10 p.m.
Smith Charles moved to direct staff to proceed as discussed in Closed Session. Seconded by
Long.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
ANNOUNCEMENTS/ADJOURNMENT
At 4:11 p.m., there being no further business to come before the Commission, the meeting was
adjourned to November 5, 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.
Fund Balance
Adopted Amended Actual Favorability/UNF Percentage
$40,794,204.00 $60,346,604.00 $67,308,284.89 $6,961,680.89 111.54%
$40,794,204.00 $60,346,604.00 $40,884,281.82 $19,462,322.18 67.75%
Adopted Amended Actual Favorability/UNF Percentage
$6,038,080.00 $6,038,080.00 $7,493,560.69 $1,455,480.69 124.11%
$6,425,949.00 $6,525,265.00 $7,006,091.62 ($480,826.62)107.37%
Adopted Amended Actual Favorability/UNF Percentage
$1,881,414.00 $1,654,314.00 $1,970,235.58 $315,921.58 119.10%
$2,827,192.00 $2,222,560.00 $2,220,877.77 $1,682.23 99.92%
Adopted Amended Actual Favorability/UNF Percentage
$2,372,877.00 $2,167,677.00 $2,282,779.87 $115,102.87 105.31%
$3,872,472.00 $3,872,472.00 $4,085,754.21 ($213,282.21)105.51%
Adopted Amended Actual Favorability/UNF Percentage
$350,000.00 $605,200.00 $390,923.06 $214,276.94 64.59%
$431,965.00 $431,965.00 $362,067.31 $69,897.69 83.82%
Awarded Amount Paid Out
$2,720,216.00 $1,570,888.18
$2,099,166.10
Expenses
Amount Remaining
$1,149,327.82
$1,660,719.72
FY 2024
FY 2025
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).
FY 2022 - 2025 YTD
Expenses
Investment Income
Summary of Community Grant Program
Parks and Recreation
Summary of Waterpark Programs
Summary of Golf Programs
FY 2025 YTD
Revenue
Expenses
Summary of Parks and Recreation
FY 2025 YTD
Revenue
Expenses
As of 9/30/2024 Current 9/30/2025
$31,918,234.31 $49,070,862.95
Revenue
Expenses
*Waterford Oaks Waterpark budget will be amended in Q3 Forecast.
FY 2025 YTD
Expenses
Summary of Campground Programs
Summary of ORV Park Operations
FY 2025 YTD
Revenue
FY 2025 YTD
Revenue
RETURN TO AGENDA
Oakland County Parks Expansion
Bringing parks closer to residents
Liz Caltagirone
Ted Tansley
9/17/2025
RETURN TO AGENDA
Overview
•Over the last five years, Oakland County Parks has worked hard to expand our park system to
serve more residents and reach more people in areas where we do not have a presence.
•That effort is continuing in the next few years, when multiple new parks are being launched
through property acquisition and community partnerships.
•Mission 26 outlines a further expansion to more locations.
•It is important to know and quantify the impact of this expansion on Oakland County
residents. To that end, analysis on how far every resident is from their closest Oakland
County Park location was completed.
•Results:
•By 2035, residents’ average distance to an OCP location will decrease by nearly 40%.
•By 2028, 65,000 more residents will live within a mile of an OCP location, doubling walkable
access countywide.
Results
•By 2035, residents’ average distance to an OCP
location will decrease by nearly 40%.
•3.7 miles in 2020 2.9 miles in 2028 2.3 miles in 2035
•By 2028, 65,000 more residents will live within
one mile of an OCP location.
•5% of residents in 2020 10% in 2028 13% in 2035
•By 2028, 220,000 more residents will live
within three miles of an OCP location
•40% of residents in 2020 58% in 2028 73% in 2035
Population statistics sourced from Esri 2025 data
•The progression from 2020 to 2035 shows gaps closing in the major population centers of Rochester Hills, Troy, Oak Park, and Novi/Farmington Hills.
•Weighted distance includes population, so a higher number (red) means that more residents are farther from a location.
•The blue heatmaps at right show the change in weighted distance for each hexagon from 2020 to 2028 and 2035 respectively.
Appendix
Oakland County Park Locations
2020 2025 2028 2035
Addison Oaks
Catalpa Oaks
Glen Oaks
Groveland Oaks
Highland Oaks
Independence Oaks
Lyon Oaks
Farmer’s Market
Orion Oaks
Red Oaks
Rose Oaks
Springfield Oaks
Waterford Oaks
White Lake Oaks
Holly Oaks
Oak Park Woods
Pontiac Oaks
Red Oaks Play Garden
Bicentennial Oaks
Clinton River Oaks
Discovery Oaks
Heritage Oaks
Southfield Oaks
Turtle Woods
MSU Tollgate Farms
Bowers Farm
Johnson Nature Center
Apple Island
Pine Lake Park
Normandy Park
Pontiac Greenway
9Line
Analysis Setup
•First, all Oakland County Parks locations are located on a map, separated by the year in which they are or will be
added to the system.
•Next, the county area is divided into ~480 hexagons (radius of 0.76 miles each), and the population within each
hexagon is computed.
•Last, the centroid of each hexagon is found and is compared to all park locations around it to find the closest
location.
Example: Weighted Distance
This park is closest to
this population centroid
An example calculation for weighted distance is shown here:
•The closest park to this population centroid is the dark blue
park, which is 1.5 miles away from the centroid.
•The population of the hexagon corresponding to this
centroid is 1,000 people.
•The weighted distance of this population centroid is then
1.5miles*1000people, or 1,500 people-miles.
•This weighted distance calculation is repeated for every
centroid, then an average is taken by summing all the
weighted distances and dividing by the total population of
Oakland County.
•That gives us an average distance of every resident to an
Oakland County Parks location.
Hexagon radius = 0.76 miles
Additional Plots
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 1
Department: Administration
From: Jami Monte, Staff Assistant – Secretary to the Commission
Subject: 2026 Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Schedule
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
Annually, the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission (OCPRC) receives a proposed
schedule for the upcoming calendar year for approval. The OCPRC typically meets on the first
Wednesday of every month at 2:00 p.m. The calendar is drafted to ensure consistency for
strategic planning and public engagement.
The majority of meetings will be held in the Parks Commission Room at the Parks and Recreation
Administration building in Waterford Township, with two meetings being held off-site to highlight
different park locations. Commissioners typically choose one off-site meetings to coincide with
the Oakland County Fair which will be held July 10-19, 2026. The second off-site meeting location
will be determined by the Commission's chosen recreational activity, which may include golfing,
kayaking, or archery.
Listed below are the proposed meeting dates, which incorporate a date change to accommodate
the Oakland County Fair and an additional off-site location to be determined based on activity
selection.
2026 OCPRC Meeting Dates and Locations
•January 7: Parks Admin – Waterford
•February 4: Parks Admin – Waterford
•March 4: Parks Admin – Waterford
•April 1: Parks Admin – Waterford
•May 6: Parks Admin – Waterford
•May 20 (if needed): Parks Admin – Waterford
•June 3: Parks Admin – Waterford
•July 15: Springfield Oaks (Oakland County Fair) – Davisburg
•August 5: Parks Admin – Waterford
•September 2: Off-site location TBD
•October 7: Parks Admin – Waterford
•November 4: Parks Admin – Waterford
•December 2: Parks Admin – Waterford
ATTACHMENTS
1.2026 Oakland County Parks and Recreation Meeting Schedule
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Move to approve the 2026 Oakland County Parks and Recreation Meeting Schedule.
RETURN TO AGENDA
S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S
01 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4
4 5 6 7 8 9 10 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
18 19 20 21 22 23 24 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
25 26 27 28 29 30 31 29 30 31 26 27 28 29 30
S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S
1 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 03 4 1
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
10 11 12 13 14 15 16 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
17 18 19 20 21 22 23 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
24 25 26 27 28 29 30 28 29 30 26 27 28 29 30 31 23 24 25 26 27 28 29
31 30 31
S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 1 2 03 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5
6 07 8 9 10 11 12 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 29 30 27 28 29 30 31
OCPRC Meeting (Commission Room) - 2:00 p.m.OCPRC Budget Study Session - 2:00 p.m. (if needed)
OCPRC Meeting (Off-site: Oakland County Fair) - 2:00 p.m.Executive Committee Meeting - 1:00 p.m.
OCPRC Meeting (Off-site: Location TBD ) - 2:00 p.m.County Holidays
MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST
SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER
20
2
6
2026 Oakland County Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting Schedule
JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL
10/28/2025
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 2
Department: Development and Engineering
From: Mark Adams, Jr., Architectural Project Manager
Subject: Glen Oaks and Red Oaks Facility Improvements
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
1.Summary
As part of the FY26 Capital Improvement Plan, staff identified a number of improvement
projects to address deferred maintenance and MS4 (municipal separate storm sewer
system) permit compliance through EGLE (Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy
Department of the State of Michigan) projects at Glen Oaks Event Center and Golf Course
and the Red Oaks golf courses.
At Glen Oaks, the following projects were consolidated into a single bid package for
contractor procurement:
•Replacement of the original, existing slate roof over the clubhouse
•An addition to the existing Maintenance building for properly-vented mixing of
landscaping chemicals
•A new golf cart storage building
•Replacement of the clubhouse and grill room HVAC system and minor interior
renovations
•Modifications to the existing stormwater plumbing system for compliance with
EGLE regulations
At Red Oaks, the following projects were consolidated into a single bid package for
contractor procurement:
•Expansion of the inadequately sized golf cart storage and golf course maintenance
building
•Modifications to the existing stormwater infrastructure for compliance with EGLE
regulations
2.Scope of Work – Glen Oaks and Red Oaks Facility Improvements
Implementation of the budgeted FY26 projects at Glen Oaks and Red Oaks allows for the
following improvements:
•Glen Oaks Event Center – replacement of the existing, original slate roof, which
annually experiences slate falling from the roof
•Glen Oaks Event Center – replacement of 2 existing HVAC rooftop units (RTUs)
along with new ductwork and temperature controls
•Glen Oaks Golf Course – construction of a new golf cart storage building and
relocating it outside of the parcel zoning setback
•Glen Oaks Golf Course – an addition to the existing maintenance building, where
staff can mix and load fertilizers, pesticides, and other biostimulants in a properly-
vented space; an underground storage vault will also be installed for spillage and
proper disposal
RETURN TO AGENDA
• Glen Oaks Golf Course – EGLE mandated modifications to the maintenance
building’s stormwater system to divert runoff from vehicle washing and direct it into
sanitary sewer system.
• Red Oaks Golf Course – an addition to the existing golf cart storage building
• Red Oaks – EGLE mandated modifications to the golf cart storage and
maintenance building’s stormwater system to divert runoff from vehicle washing
and direct it into sanitary sewer system.
3. Project Budget
a. FY 25 Capital Improvement Program:
i. Red Oaks Golf Cart Barn Design $10,000
ii. MPP Vehicle Wash Station Compliance $100,000
b. FY 26 Capital Improvement Program:
i. Glen Oaks Golf Course Maintenance Improvements $1,437,500
ii. Glen Oaks Exterior Renovation and Roof Replacement $1,518,000
iii. Glen Oaks Clubhouse HVAC Upgrade & Interior Renovation $885,000
iv. Glen Oaks Boundary Fenceline Replacement $115,000
1. Total Budget $4,065,500
Note: Bid solicitations were requested from prequalified Oakland County general
contractors per the
County’s Responsible Bidder Policy.
c. Recommended total amount
i. Based on the received proposals from the current architect of record and
contractor bids for performing Facility Improvements at Red Oaks and Glen Oaks,
the Engineering, Development, and Compliance staff recommends moving
forward with the following amount:
a) Design and Engineering $205,000
b) General Contractor Estimate $2,687,870
c) Fenceline Replacement $75,000
d) Construction Contingency (15%) $440,000
1. Total Project Cost $3,407, 870
ATTACHMENTS
1. Attachment A – Project Location Maps
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Move to approve expenditure Not to exceed $3,407,870, to execute Facility Improvements at Red
Oaks and Glen Oaks golf courses.
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2020 IMAGERY
www.OaklandCountyParks.com
2800 Watkins Lake RoadWaterford, MI248-858-0906
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Glen Oaks Golf Course30500 13 Mile RoadFarmington Hills, MI 48334
ÊÊ
Glen Oaks Golf Course
ÊÊ Project Location
Maintenance Building
Conference Center
New slate roof and
HVAC
Improvements
Buildings Slated For Electrical Upgrades
Golf
Cart
Storage
Existing
Location
13 Mile
13 Mile
RED OAKS
GOLFCOURSE
RED OAKS GOLF COURSE
29600 JOHN R. ROAD
MADISON HEIGHTS, MI 48071
RED OAKS GOLF COURSE
RED OAKS GOLF MAINTENANCE BUILDING
(CORNER OF 13 MILE & MILTON RD.)
GOLF CART BARN
CLUBHOUSE
MAINTENANCE YARD
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 3
Department: Natural Resources Management
From: Sarah Cook-Maylen, Chief – Natural Resources Management
Subject: USDA Deer Management
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
White-tailed deer are a native species in Michigan with a rich cultural and ecological history.
However, over time and with a loss of natural predators, white-tailed deer populations in Michigan
have exploded to the detriment of residents, native plants, and the deer themselves.
Management of white-tailed deer populations is conducted across the state and is regulated by
the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR). The goal of deer management is to
maintain sustainable deer populations, reduce disease, reduce negative human/deer interactions
(such as vehicle crashes), reduce economic impacts to farmers and gardeners, provide a
recreational opportunity for sportspeople, and prevent degradation of our natural communities.
A pilot deer management firearm control program was carried out at Addison Oaks over three
evenings in February 2024. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Wildlife Services removed
a total of 75 deer, resulting in approximately 3000 pounds of venison donated through Michigan
Sportsmen Against Hunger. The number of deer removed matched the target number suggested
by MDNR as being necessary to help permanently reduce the population size. As expected, this
program proved significantly more efficient and used much less staff time than previous volunteer-
based culls. In 2025, Groveland Oaks was added to the cull rotation and had similar success to
Addison Oaks. All aspects of the program were carried out safely and smoothly.
In summary, Natural Resources Management recommends the following for winter 2026:
•Continue annual management at Addison Oaks and Groveland Oaks using USDA Wildlife
Services, modifying effort as necessary to reach and maintain an appropriate population
size.
•Continue annual infrared drone population surveys and plant surveys at relevant parks to
evaluate success.
ATTACHMENTS
•USDA Wildlife Services Cooperative Service Agreement
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Motion to approve the white-tail deer management program utilizing firearms at Addison and
Groveland Oaks and approve and forward the USDA Cooperative Service Agreement to the
Board of Commissioners.
RETURN TO AGENDA
(7/2019 version)
WS Agreement Number: ________________-RA
WBS:______________________________
[optional] Cooperator PO: _________________
ROWE-monthly or quarterly (billable) 1
COOPERATIVE SERVICE AGREEMENT
between
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS
and
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICE (APHIS)
WILDLIFE SERVICES (WS)
ARTICLE 1 – PURPOSE
The purpose of this Cooperative Service Agreement is to cooperate in a wildlife damage
management project as described in the attached Work Plan.
ARTICLE 2 – AUTHORITY
APHIS-WS has statutory authority under the Acts of March 2, 1931, 46 Stat. 1468-69, 7 U.S.C.
§§ 8351-8352, as amended, and December 22, 1987, Public Law No. 100-202, § 101(k), 101 Stat.
1329-331, 7 U.S.C. § 8353, to cooperate with States, local jurisdictions, individuals, public and
private agencies, organizations, and institutions while conducting a program of wildlife services
involving mammal and bird species that are reservoirs for zoonotic diseases, or animal species
that are injurious and/or a nuisance to, among other things, agriculture, horticulture, forestry,
animal husbandry, wildlife, and human health and safety.
ARTICLE 3 - MUTUAL RESPONSIBILITIES
The cooperating parties mutually understand and agree to/that:
1. APHIS-WS shall perform services set forth in the Work Plan, which is attached hereto and
made a part hereof. The parties may mutually agree in writing, at any time during the
term of this agreement, to amend, modify, add or delete services from the Work Plan.
2. The Cooperator certifies that APHIS-WS has advised the Cooperator there may be private
sector service providers available to provide wildlife damage management (WDM)
services that the Cooperator is seeking from APHIS-WS.
3. There will be no equipment with a procurement price of $5,000 or more per unit purchased
directly with funds from the cooperator for use on this project. All other equipment
purchased for the program is and will remain the property of APHIS-WS.
4. The cooperating parties agree to coordinate with each other before responding to media
requests on work associated with this project.
For Internal Use: ROWE-monthly or quarterly (billable)
ARTICLE 4 - COOPERATOR RESPONSIBILITIES
Cooperator agrees:
1.To designate the following as the authorized representative who shall be responsible for
collaboratively administering the activities conducted in this agreement;
Oakland County Parks
Sean Zera
2800 Watkins Lake Road
Waterford, MI 48328
(248) 520-7231
zeras@oakgov.com
For Internal Use: ROWE-monthly or quarterly (billable)
ARTICLE 5 – APHIS-WS RESPONSIBILITIES
APHIS-WS Agrees:
1. To designate the following as the APHIS-WS authorized representative who shall be
responsible for collaboratively administering the activities conducted in this agreement.
APHIS-WS State Director:
Anthony G. Duffiney
2803 Jolly Rd, Suite 100
Okemos, MI 48864
(517) 336-1928
anthony.g.duffiney@usda.gov
2. To conduct activities at sites designated by Cooperator as described in the Work and
Financial Plans. APHIS-WS will provide qualified personnel and other resources
necessary to implement the approved WDM activities delineated in the Work Plan and
Financial Plan of this agreement.
3. That the performance of wildlife damage management actions by APHIS-WS under this
agreement is contingent upon a determination by APHIS-WS that such actions are in
compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act, Endangered Species Act, and
any other applicable federal statutes. APHIS-WS will not make a final decision to
conduct requested wildlife damage management actions until it has made the
determination of such compliance.
4. To invoice Cooperator for actual costs incurred by APHIS-WS during the performance of
services agreed upon and specified in the Work Plan. Authorized auditing representatives
of the Cooperator shall be accorded reasonable opportunity to inspect the accounts and
records of APHIS-WS pertaining to such claims for reimbursement to the extent permitted
by Federal law and regulations.
Select billing frequency: Monthly or Quarterly
(Quarterly billing will be default)
ARTICLE 6 – CONTINGENCY STATEMENT
This agreement is contingent upon the passage by Congress of an appropriation from which
expenditures may be legally met and shall not obligate APHIS-WS upon failure of Congress to so
appropriate. This agreement may also be reduced or terminated if Congress only provides
APHIS-WS funds for a finite period under a Continuing Resolution.
For Internal Use: ROWE-monthly or quarterly (billable)
ARTICLE 7 – NON-EXCLUSIVE SERVICE CLAUSE
Nothing in this agreement shall prevent APHIS-WS from entering into separate agreements with
any other organization or individual for the purpose of providing wildlife damage management
services exclusive of those provided for under this agreement.
ARTICLE 8 – CONGRESSIONAL RESTRICTIONS
Pursuant to Section 22, Title 41, United States Code, no member of or delegate to Congress shall
be admitted to any share or part of this agreement or to any benefit to arise therefrom.
ARTICLE 9 – LAWS AND REGULATIONS
This agreement is not a procurement contract (31 U.S.C. 6303), nor is it considered a grant (31
U.S.C. 6304). In this agreement, APHIS-WS provides goods or services on a cost recovery basis
to nonfederal recipients, in accordance with all applicable laws, regulations and policies.
ARTICLE 10 – LIABILITY
APHIS-WS assumes no liability for any actions or activities conducted under this agreement
except to the extent that recourse or remedies are provided by Congress under the Federal Tort
Claims Act (28 U.S.C. 1346(b), 2401(b), and 2671-2680).
ARTICLE 11 – NON-DISCRIMINATION CLAUSE
The United States Department of Agriculture prohibits discrimination in all its programs and
activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex,
marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information,
political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or part of an individual’s income is derived from any
public assistance program. Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.
ARTICLE 12 - DURATION, REVISIONS, EXTENSIONS, AND TERMINATIONS
This agreement shall become effective on October 1, 2025, and shall continue through June 30,
2026, not to exceed five years. This Cooperative Service Agreement may be amended by mutual
agreement of the parties in writing. The Cooperator must submit a written request to extend the
end date at least 10 days prior to expiration of the agreement. Also, this agreement may be
terminated at any time by mutual agreement of the parties in writing, or by one party provided
that party notifies the other in writing at least 60 days prior to effecting such action. Further, in
the event the Cooperator does not provide necessary funds, APHIS-WS is relieved of the
obligation to provide services under this agreement.
For Internal Use: ROWE-monthly or quarterly (billable)
In accordance with the Debt Collection Improvement Act of 1996, the Department of Treasury
requires a Taxpayer Identification Number for individuals or businesses conducting business with
the agency.
Cooperator’s Tax ID No.: 38-6004876
APHIS-WS’s Tax ID: 41-0696271
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS
_______________________________________ _______________________
David T. Woodward Date
Chair of Oakland County Board of Commissioners
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICE
WILDLIFE SERVICES
_______________________________________ _______________________
Anthony G. Duffiney, State Director Date
USDA, APHIS, WS
2803 Jolly Rd, Suite 100
Okemos, MI 48864
_______________________________________ _______________________
Keith P. Wehner, Eastern Regional Director Date
USDA, APHIS, WS
Prepared by (APHIS-WS employee): Dave Madrigal
For Internal Use: ROWE-monthly or quarterly (billable)
WORK PLAN
In accordance with the Cooperative Service Agreement between Oakland County Parks
and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection
Service (APHIS), Wildlife Services (WS), this Work Plan sets forth the objectives, activities and
budget of this project during the period of this agreement.
Program Objective
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is authorized to protect American agriculture and
other resources from damage associated with wildlife. Wildlife Services activities are conducted
in cooperation with other Federal, State and local agencies, private organizations and individuals.
The APHIS WS program uses an Integrated Wildlife Damage Management (IWDM) approach
(sometimes referred to as IPM or “Integrated Pest Management”) in which a series of methods
may be used or recommended to reduce wildlife damage. These methods include the alteration of
cultural practices, habitats, and behavioral modifications to prevent damage. However,
controlling wildlife damage may require that the offending animal(s) are killed or that the
populations of the offending species be reduced.
Plan of Action
At the request of Oakland County Parks, Wildlife Services will remove white-tailed deer under
permits issued by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Wildlife Services will utilize
suppressed firearms from vehicles, ground blinds, elevated stands, and baiting. Wildlife Services
will perform field dressing and transport carcasses to local processor for donation to charity. At
the completion of this project, Okland County Parks may consult with Wildlife Services and the
Michigan Department of Natural Resources to determine if further control visits are necessary.
For Internal Use: ROWE-monthly or quarterly (billable)
FINANCIAL PLAN
Cost Element Full Cost
Personnel Compensation $16,760.36
Travel
Vehicles $600.00
Other Services
Supplies and Materials $1,900.00
Equipment $500.00
Subtotal (Direct Charges) $19,760.36
Pooled Job Costs 11.00% $2,173.64
Indirect Costs 16.15% $3,191.30
Aviation Flat Rate Collection
Agreement Total $25,125.29
The distribution of the budget from this Financial Plan may vary as necessary to
accomplish the purpose of this agreement, but may not exceed: $25,125.29
Cooperator Financial Point of Contact: APHIS-WS State Office Financial Point of Contact:
Jenifer Adcock, Fiscal Services Supervisor Teresa Stewart, Budget Technician
2800 Watkins Lake Rd 2803 Jolly Rd, Suite 100
Waterford, MI 48328 Okemos, MI 48864
(248) 420-1727 (517) 318-3460
adcockj@oakgov.com
teresa.stewart2@usda.gov
Oakland Couny Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 4
Department: Park Operations
From: Jim Dunleavy, Manager – Park Operations
Subject: FY2026 Capital Equipment Budget Amendment
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
Staff is requesting to amend the approved FY2026 Capital Equipment Budget. The budgeted
equipment was submitted in May 2025, since then some equipment priorities and needs have
changed for various operations. The equipment proposed to be changed in the FY2026 Capital
Equipment Budget is highlighted in the attached Proposed Amended FY2026 Capital Equipment
Budget. A summary sheet of the proposed changes is also attached for reference. The proposed
changes in equipment will decrease the budgeted expenditure and will not increase the budgeted
total. The Proposed Amended FY2026 Capital Equipment budgeted total will remain at
$4,500,000.
There are (125) one hundred and twenty-five items that were originally approved in the FY2026
Capital Equipment Budget. There are (21) twenty-one pieces of equipment that are requested to
be removed and (24) twenty-four items that are requested to be added. These changes are
anticipated to reduce the equipment expenditure total by $86,399.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Proposed FY2026 Capital Equipment Budget with Amended Changes Highlighted
2.Summary of FY2026 Capital Equipment Change Requests
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Move to approve the FY2026 Capital Equipment Budget, as amended.
RETURN TO AGENDA
Park/Department Program Approved Equipment Budget Amount Park/Department Program Requested Equipment Budget Amount
Remove:Replace With:
Addison Oaks ADD710 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty 25,000.00$ Addison Oaks ADD710 Articulating Cutting Head Attachment 25,000.00$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Z-Turn Mower 18,000.00$ Facilities Maintenance FM700 Track Lift 162,000.00$
Facilities Maintenance FM700 Compact Wheel Loader 95,000.00$ Glen Oaks GLG010 Non-Vibratory Rollers 6,455.00$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Leaf Rake 40,000.00$ Glen Oaks GLG010 Mower Accessories 10,884.92$
Independence Oaks IND700 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty 13,000.00$ Glen Oaks GLG010 Surrounds Mower 46,202.52$
Independence Oaks IND700 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty 13,000.00$ Independence Oaks IND700 Turbine Blower 15,000.00$
Independence Oaks IND700 Tractor w/ Backhoe 95,000.00$ Independence Oaks IND700 4x4 ATV 25,492.66$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty 13,000.00$ Independence Oaks IND700 Deck Over Trailer 13,500.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty 13,000.00$ Independence Oaks IND700 Rescue Boat 30,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Large Area Rough Mower 45,000.00$ Independence Oaks IND700 Brine Sprayer 9,995.58$
Natural Resources NR431 Stump Grinder 40,000.00$ Lyon Oaks LYP010 Verticut Units 19,000.00$
Natural Resources NR431 Tractor 45,000.00$ Natural Resources NR431 Skid Steer 80,000.00$
Orion Oaks ORN700 Tractor 35,000.00$ Orion Oaks ORN700 Fuel Tank 7,648.99$
Red Oaks RDP010 Greens Mower 45,000.00$ Orion Oaks ORN700 Z-Turn Mower 15,985.00$
Red Oaks RDP700 Venrac 72" Contour Mower Attachment 11,000.00$ Recreation REC020 Cargo Trailer 18,000.00$
Springfield Oaks SPR700 Z-Turn Mower 18,000.00$ Recreation REC020 Inflatable Obstacle Course 12,000.00$
Springfield Oaks SPR700 Z-Turn Mower 18,000.00$ Red Oaks RDP010 Surrounds Mower 45,885.06$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 9'6" MVP3 Snow Plow 9,500.00$ Red Oaks RDP700 Triplex Roller Kit 10,000.00$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Greens Mower 45,000.00$ Springfield Oaks SPR010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty 12,796.68$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Greens Mower 45,000.00$ Springfield Oaks SPR010 Utility Vehicle - Heavy Duty 29,976.69$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Fairway Mower 80,000.00$ Springfield Oaks SPR010 Turfline Greens Care 18,515.00$
----Waterford Oaks WTR700 Flat Bed Trailer 20,000.00$
----White Lake Oaks WLG010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty 29,741.40$
----White Lake Oaks WLG010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty 11,022.18$
Total Cost Removed Equipment 761,500.00$ Total Cost Requested Equipment 675,101.68$
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS FY2026
Capital Equipment Summary - Amended 11/5/2025
Park/Department Program Proposed Equipment Type Budgeted Amount
Addison Oaks ADD710 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Rokon Trail Grooming Motor Bike Grounds Equipment 13,000.00$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Attachment for Bobcat - Brush Grapple Mower 6,500.00$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Attachment for Bobcat - Brushcat Rotary Cutter Mower 9,000.00$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Z-Turn Mower Mower 18,000.00$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Turbine Blower Grounds Equipment 11,000.00$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Tractor Tractor 95,000.00$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Adult Handcycle Adaptive Equipment 5,951.00$
Addison Oaks ADD710 3 Wheel Off Road Wheel Chair Adaptive Equipment 5,425.00$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Z-Turn Mower Mower 18,000.00$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Articulating Cutting Head Attachment Mower 25,000.00$
Admin ADM000 6-person Shuttle Cart Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$
Catalpa Oaks CAT700 Z-Turn Mower Mower 18,000.00$
Catalpa Oaks CAT700 Z-Turn Mower Mower 18,000.00$
Facilities Maintenance FM700 Towable Generator Grounds Equipment 40,000.00$
Facilities Maintenance FM700 Towable Generator Grounds Equipment 40,000.00$
Facilities Maintenance FM700 Air Compressor Grounds Equipment 35,000.00$
Facilities Maintenance FM700 Compact Wheel Loader Tractor 95,000.00$
Facilities Maintenance FM700 Track Lift Grounds Equipment 162,000.00$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Topdressor Grounds Equipment 30,000.00$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Aerifier Grounds Equipment 35,000.00$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Toolcat w Accessories Tractor 120,000.00$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Greens Mower Mower 45,000.00$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Greens Mower Mower 45,000.00$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Greens Mower Mower 45,000.00$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Greens Brush Grounds Equipment 8,000.00$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Leaf Rake Grounds Equipment 40,000.00$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Non-Vibratory Rollers Grounds Equipment 6,455.00$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Mower Accessories Grounds Equipment 10,884.92$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Surrounds Mower Mower 46,202.52$
Groveland Oaks GRV710 Large Area Rough Mower Mower 95,000.00$
Groveland Oaks GRV710 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$
Groveland Oaks GRV710 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$
Groveland Oaks GRV710 Loader with Backhoe Tractor 95,000.00$
Groveland Oaks GRV710 Turbine Blower Grounds Equipment 11,000.00$
Groveland Oaks GRV710 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
Groveland Oaks GRV710 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
Groveland Oaks GRV710 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
Groveland Oaks GRV710 3 Wheel Off Road Wheel Chair Adaptive Equipment 5,425.00$
Holly Oaks HRV700 Bulldozer Tractor 200,000.00$
Holly Oaks HRV700 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 22,000.00$
Independence Oaks IND700 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 15,000.00$
Independence Oaks IND700 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
Independence Oaks IND700 Bobcat Toolcat Tractor 100,000.00$
Independence Oaks IND700 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$
Independence Oaks IND700 Utility Vehicle - Heavy Duty Utility Vehicle 50,000.00$
Independence Oaks IND700 4x4 ATV Utility Vehicle 30,000.00$
Independence Oaks IND700 3 Wheel Off Road Wheel Chair Adaptive Equipment 5,425.00$
Independence Oaks IND700 Turbine Blower Grounds Equipment 11,000.00$
Independence Oaks IND700 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
Independence Oaks IND700 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
Independence Oaks IND700 Tractor w/ Backhoe Tractor 95,000.00$
Independence Oaks IND700 4x4 ATV Utility Vehicle 25,492.66$
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS
FY2026 Capital Equipment - Amended 11/5/2025
Independence Oaks IND700 Deck Over Trailer Trailer 13,500.00$
Independence Oaks IND700 Rescue Boat Grounds Equipment 30,000.00$
Independence Oaks IND700 Brine Sprayer Grounds Equipment 9,995.58$
Independence Oaks IND700 Turbine Blower Grounds Equipment 15,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP700 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Greens Roller Grounds Equipment 25,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Turbine Blower Grounds Equipment 11,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Utility Vehicle - Heavy Duty Utility Vehicle 45,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Fairway Mower Mower 85,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Surrounds Mower Mower 45,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Z-Turn Mower Mower 18,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Bunker Rake Grounds Equipment 25,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Topdressor Grounds Equipment 25,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Lely 3-Point Hitch PTO Spreader Grounds Equipment 6,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Aerifier Grounds Equipment 35,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Large Area Rough Mower Mower 45,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Verticut Units Grounds Equipment 19,000.00$
Natural Resources NR431 Track Loader Tractor 90,000.00$
Natural Resources NR431 Fecon Bullhead 74SS Mulcher Mower 40,000.00$
Natural Resources NR431 Water Quality Sensor (4)Grounds Equipment 80,000.00$
Natural Resources NR431 4x4 Side by Side Utility Vehicle 30,000.00$
Natural Resources NR431 Portable self driven tracked boom lift Grounds Equipment 160,000.00$
Natural Resources NR431 Heavy duty High Flow brush cutter Mower 15,000.00$
Natural Resources NR431 Stump Grinder Grounds Equipment 40,000.00$
Natural Resources NR431 Skid Steer Grounds Equipment 80,000.00$
Natural Resources NR431 Tractor Tractor 45,000.00$
Orion Oaks ORN700 Tractor Tractor 35,000.00$
Orion Oaks ORN700 Fuel Tank Grounds Equipment 7,648.99$
Orion Oaks ORN700 Z-Turn Mower Mower 15,985.00$
Recreation REC020 Climbing Tower Recreation Equipment 45,000.00$
Recreation REC020 Towable Light Tower Recreation Equipment 8,000.00$
Recreation REC020 Towable Light Tower Recreation Equipment 8,000.00$
Recreation REC020 Inflatable Obstacle Course Recreation Equipment 12,000.00$
Recreation REC020 MOBILE STAGE 2 Recreation Equipment 165,000.00$
Recreation REC020 Cargo Trailer Trailer 18,000.00$
Recreation REC020 Cargo Trailer Trailer 18,000.00$
Recreation REC020 Inflatable Obstacle Course Recreation Equipment 12,000.00$
Red Oaks RDP010 Greens Mower Mower 45,000.00$
Red Oaks RDP010 Sprayer Grounds Equipment 60,000.00$
Red Oaks RDP700 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$
Red Oaks RDP700 Z-Turn Mower Mower 18,000.00$
Red Oaks RDP700 200 Gallon Electric Brine Sprayer Grounds Equipment 7,000.00$
Red Oaks RDP700 6'6" Compact Vehicle Snow Plow Grounds Equipment 6,000.00$
Red Oaks RDP700 Tig/Mig Welder Tools 7,000.00$
Red Oaks RDP700 Ventrac Boom Mower Attachment Mower 20,000.00$
Red Oaks RDP010 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$
Red Oaks RDP700 Venrac 72" Contour Mower Attachment Mower 11,000.00$
Red Oaks RDP010 Greens Mower Mower 45,000.00$
Red Oaks RDP010 Surrounds Mower Mower 45,885.06$
Red Oaks RDP700 Triplex Roller Kit Grounds Equipment 10,000.00$
Rose Oaks RSE700 Ventrac w/ Attachments Tractor 85,000.00$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Agrimetal Greens Roller Grounds Equipment 25,000.00$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Towable Generator Grounds Equipment 40,000.00$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Greens Mower Mower 45,000.00$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Surrounds Mower Mower 45,000.00$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Bunker Rake Grounds Equipment 25,000.00$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Utility Vehicle - Heavy Duty Utility Vehicle 50,000.00$
Springfield Oaks SPR700 Z-Turn Mower Mower 18,000.00$
Springfield Oaks SPR700 Z-Turn Mower Mower 18,000.00$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 12,796.68$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Utility Vehicle - Heavy Duty Utility Vehicle 29,976.69$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Turbine Blower Grounds Equipment 11,022.18$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Turfline Greens Care Grounds Equipment 18,515.00$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 Toolcat Tractor 90,000.00$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 Z-Turn Mower Mower 16,000.00$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 200 Gallon Electric Brine Sprayer Grounds Equipment 7,000.00$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 6'6" Compact Vehicle Snow Plow Grounds Equipment 6,000.00$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 22,000.00$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 Dump Trailer Trailer 15,000.00$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 Bed Mounted Salt Spreader Grounds Equipment 10,000.00$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 9'6" MVP3 Snow Plow Grounds Equipment 9,500.00$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 Flat Bed Trailer Trailer 20,000.00$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Utility Vehicle - Heavy Duty Utility Vehicle 50,000.00$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Large Area Rough Mower Mower 85,000.00$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Aerifier Grounds Equipment 30,000.00$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Greens Mower Mower 45,000.00$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Greens Mower Mower 45,000.00$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Fairway Mower Mower 80,000.00$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Utility Vehicle - Heavy Duty Grounds Equipment 29,741.40$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Grounds Equipment 11,022.18$
Total 4,214,849.86$
Contingency 207,000.00$
Grand Total 4,421,849.86$
Budget 4,500,000.00$
Variance 78,150.14$
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 5
Department: Administration
From: James Dunleavy, Manager – Park Operations
Subject: Springfield Oaks Residential Lease Renewal – Terry Foshia
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
In April 2009, The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission approved the Residential
Property Lease Policy. The purpose of the policy was to set forth procedures and guidelines to
manage residential properties located on Oakland County Parks property. The Oakland County
Parks and Recreation Director shall oversee the implementation and interpretation of this policy.
The property at Springfield Oaks located at 12080 Clark Rd, Davisburg, MI, is 1,344 square feet,
and has 3 bedrooms with 2 baths. It also has a 2-car garage and a basement and was built in
1972.
The house has been occupied by Terry Foshia for several years. We are requesting to move
forward with a 1-year lease, with the standard terms for terminating the lease early. The attached
lease agreement has been prepared and reviewed by Oakland County Corporation Counsel. The
lease rate includes a 2% increase from the prior year’s rent.
As Oakland County Parks continues to modernize operations and align with its long-term Mission
26 goals, staff have identified the need to evaluate the role of residential leases on park property.
These legacy arrangements were originally established to provide on-site caretaking or security,
but in many cases those functions are now performed through professional park operations,
maintenance, and technology systems. Continuing to hold residential leases can limit flexibility
for future park use, capital planning, and asset management. Phasing out residential leases over
time will allow the Commission to repurpose these properties for public benefit, program
expansion, or operational efficiency while ensuring fair treatment of existing tenants and
appropriate stewardship of County assets.
ATTACHMENTS
1.Residential Lease – Foshia – Springfield Oaks
2.Aerial Map for Residential Lease – Springfield Oaks
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Move to approve the Residential Lease with Terry Foshia for the Springfield Oaks Residential
Property located at 12080 Clark Rd, Davisburg, MI for a 1-year term effective January 1, 2026,
through December 31, 2026. In addition, staff is directed to develop and present to the
Commission a plan for phasing out residential lease arrangements on park property, including
options for future property use, maintenance, or disposition, consistent with the long-term mission
and operational needs of Oakland County Parks.
RETURN TO AGENDA
1
SPO Foshia Residential LEASE 2026 Foshia – Springfield Oaks
RESIDENTIAL LEASE AGREEMENT
NOTICE: MICHIGAN LAW ESTABLISHES RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS FOR PARTIES
TO RENTAL AGREEMENTS. THIS AGREEMENT IS REQUIRED TO COMPLY WITH
THE TRUTH IN RENTING ACT. IF YOU HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT THE
INTERPRETATION OR LEGALITY OF A PROVISION OF THIS AGREEMENT, YOU
MAY WANT TO SEEK ASSISTANCE FROM A LAWYER OR OTHER QUALIFIED
PERSON.
This Lease Agreement ("Lease") is entered into between the County of Oakland, 1200 North
Telegraph, Pontiac, MI 48341 ("Landlord"), by the through its statutory agent the Oakland
County Parks and Recreation Commission (“OCPRC”) and Terry Foshia ("Tenant") according to
the terms and conditions set forth below.
1.Premises. Tenant leases from landlord the real property located at 12080 Clark Road,
Davisburg, MI 48350 ("Premises"), together with any furnishings, fixtures, personal
property, and appurtenances provided by Landlord for Tenant’s use.
2.Term. The term of this Lease shall be for one (1) year, beginning on January 1, 2026
and ending on December 31, 2026. References in this Lease to the term of the Lease
shall include any renewal term(s). Tenant shall receive possession of the Premises upon
execution of the Lease.
3.Tenant Monetary Obligations.
3.1. The rental rate for the first year is set by taking the market rate and applying the
discount for performing residential duties. The rent is then increased by 2%
based on the previous years rent. Tenant shall pay Landlord the following rent
on or before the first day of each month during the term of this Lease:
January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026 $1043.00 per month
3.2. The rent shall be paid by check or money order made payable to the “County of
Oakland” and sent to the following address: Oakland County Parks and
Recreation, 2800 Watkins Lake Road, Waterford, Michigan 48328 or another
address designated by Landlord in writing.
3.3. Tenant shall pay the first monthly installment when Tenant executes this Lease.
The first monthly installment shall be pro-rated for such month, if the Lease is
executed on another day than the first day of the month.
3.4. Tenant shall pay Landlord a late fee of $25 for each monthly installment not
received by Landlord within five days of its due date. This increase shall be
considered additional rent and shall compensate Landlord for costs incurred
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SPO Foshia Residential LEASE 2026-Foshia – Springfield Oaks
because of late payments. Landlord’s right to collect this additional rent shall be
in addition to Landlord’s right to take action under other provisions of this Lease
for Tenant’s default in paying rent. Tenant shall pay all additional rent to
Landlord promptly after the due date of the delinquent installment. All rent paid
after the due date and payments to cover checks that have been returned for
insufficient funds must be paid at the place designated for payment, by cashier’s
check, certified check, or money order.
3.5. During the term of this Lease, Tenant shall obtain and maintain comprehensive
personal liability or tenant’s form insurance coverage in the minimum amount of
One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000.00). Tenant shall also provide the
Landlord with a certificate of insurance coverage listing the County of Oakland
and its employees, officers, and elected and appointed officials as additional
insureds.
3.6. A tenant who has a reasonable apprehension of present danger to him or her or his
or her child from domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking may have special
statutory rights to seek a release of rental obligation under MCL 554.601b.
4.Use of Premises.
4.1. Tenant shall use the Premises for private residential purposes only. No persons
other than the following listed person(s) shall occupy the Premises for more than
fourteen (14) days during the term of this Lease without the prior written approval
of Landlord: Martha Foshia
Landlord’s approval shall be given by the OCPRC Director or his or her designee.
4.2. Tenant shall not do any of the following or allow another person to do any of the
following:
4.2.1. Create any excessive noise or public nuisance;
4.2.2. Do anything to the premises or its surroundings that may be hazardous or
that will cause Landlord’s insurance to be cancelled or premiums to
increase;
4.2.3. Deface or damage any part of the premises;
4.2.4. Change the locks or install any additional locks or bolts without
Landlord’s prior written approval. Landlord’s approval shall be given by
the OCPRC Director or his or her designee;
4.2.5. Place a waterbed or other heavy article on the premises without
Landlord’s prior written approval. Landlord’s approval shall be given by
the OCPRC Director or his or her designee;
4.2.6. Install any equipment or appliances that, in Landlord’s opinion, would
cause unsafe conditions on or around the premises;
4.2.7. Accumulate refuse on or around the premises that might pose a health
hazard to Tenant or to the surrounding properties;
4.2.8. Permit any flammable liquids or explosives to be kept on or around the
Premises; and
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SPO Foshia Residential LEASE 2026-Foshia – Springfield Oaks
4.2.9. Bring any animals on the Premises without Landlord’s prior written
approval. Landlord’s approval shall be given by the OCPRC Director or
his or her designee.
4.3. Tenant Duties.
4.3.1. To the extent permitted by law, Tenant shall secure and protect the Park
Property and facilities therein, especially during "Park Closed" hours.
This shall include contacting and coordinating with police, fire or other
agencies as may be required and the preparation of an Unusual Incident
Report as required by Landlord.
4.3.2. Tenant shall arrange for emergency repair and maintenance services for
Park Property and facilities, as needed.
4.3.3. Tenant shall make reports to the Park Supervisor or other entity as may
be required by Landlord.
4.3.4. Landlord shall install smoke-detection devices for the Premises along
with batteries to operate the devices. Tenant must regularly test the
devices to ensure that they are operational and if not notify Landlord
immediately. Tenants must never remove batteries from smoke-
detection devices, except when necessary to replace the batteries.
4.3.5. The performance of “tenant duties,” set forth in the Lease does not and
is not intended to create an employee/employer relationship between
Landlord and Tenant.
5.Use of Illegal Substances. Tenant shall not violate or knowingly allow another person to
violate federal, state, or local laws regarding the use of controlled substances or the use
of alcohol by minors in or around the Premises. When aware of a violation of this
section, Landlord will file a formal police report.
6. Condition of Premises.
6.1. Except as otherwise expressly stated herein or in an Amendment to this Lease,
Tenant acknowledges that no representations were made by Landlord about the
condition of the Premises or promises to alter or to improve the Premises before
or during the term of the Lease.
6.2. Throughout the term of the Lease, Tenant shall keep the Premises in a good and
clean condition and shall allow no waste of the Premises or any utilities.
6.3. Except for normal wear and tear, Tenants shall return the Premises to Landlord in
the same condition as they were upon commencement of this Lease, including
cleanliness.
7.Utilities and Services for Premises. Tenant is responsible for the costs of utilities and
services for the Premises and for establishing accounts, if they are not already
established for the term of this Lease including but not limited to the following:
(a)garbage removal; (b) water and sewer; (c) gas/propane; (d) electricity; (e) ice
removal, including salting the driveway and any walks surrounding the Premises or on
the Premises; (f) telephones; (g) cable television; (h) Internet; and (i) cleaning for the
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SPO Foshia Residential LEASE 2026 Foshia – Springfield Oaks
interior of the building located on the Premises. All accounts for utilities and services
shall be in the name of Tenant.
8.Maintenance, Repairs, and Damage to Premises.
8.1. Landlord shall be responsible for snow removal and lawn/grounds services for the
Premises.
8.2. Landlord shall provide repair and maintenance for the Premises and its parking lot
or parking area, including but not limited to, building infrastructure, HVAC
system, utility infrastructure, plumbing and electrical system. Tenant shall notify
Landlord, in a timely manner and without delay, when there is a need for repairs
to the Premises.
8.3. Except for normal wear and tear to the Premises, Tenant shall be liable for any
damage to the Premises or other property of Landlord that is caused by the acts or
omissions of Tenant or Tenant’s guests, including but not limited to broken glass
and lost or broken keys. If damage occurs, Landlord or its agents shall make the
necessary repairs, and Tenant shall reimburse Landlord for all costs associated
with the repairs. Such reimbursement shall be paid by Tenant within thirty (30)
days of receiving an invoice from Landlord. If Landlord makes a claim and
receives payment under its property insurance for damage to the Premises, then
Tenant shall only be liable to Landlord for the amount of the deductible for the
property insurance for the Premises. Landlord shall send an invoice to Tenant for
the amount of the deductible and Tenant shall pay this amount within thirty (30)
days of receiving the invoice.
8.4. To the extent permitted by law, Landlord and Landlord’s agents shall not be liable
for any damage to property or loss of property that is caused by theft or casualty
on the Premises. Landlord recommends that Tenant obtain insurance to protect
Tenant’s personal property against such loss or damage.
9.Decorations and Alterations to Premises. Tenant shall not alter or decorate the Premises,
including but not limited to, removing any furnishings Landlord provides to Tenant,
driving nails into the woodwork, painting or using any adhesive material on the walls
without prior written approval from Landlord. Landlord’s approval shall be given by the
OCPRC Director or his or her designee. Landlord’s approval of a particular decoration
or alteration shall not be deemed consent to future decorations or alterations.
10. Assignment and Sublease of Premises. Tenant shall not assign or sublease the Premises
or any portion thereof.
11.Access to the Premises. Tenant shall allow Landlord and Landlord’s agents reasonable
access to the Premises to inspect, repair, alter, or improve the Premises. Landlord and
Landlord’s agents shall have immediate access to the Premises in case of an emergency
or if an emergency repair to the Premises is required. Tenant shall also allow insurance
carriers and representatives, fire department inspectors, police, or local health authorities
to inspect the Premises. Tenant shall allow Landlord or Landlord’s agents to show the
Premises to prospective tenants or purchasers at reasonable times during the sixty (60)
days prior to the expiration of this Lease.
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SPO Foshia Residential LEASE 2026-Foshia – Springfield Oaks
12. Vacation or Abandonment of the Premises. If Tenant removes substantially all Tenant’s
property from the Premises for a period of thirty (30) days, Landlord may immediately
enter and redecorate the Premises without abatement of rent and proceed as if Tenant
terminated this Lease. These acts by Landlord shall not affect Tenant’s obligations
under this Lease. If Tenant abandons the Premises before the Lease expires, all rent for
the remainder of the term of the Lease shall immediately become due.
13.Damage or Destruction of the Premises. If a casualty partially destroys the Premises but
they can be restored to a tenantable condition within thirty (30) days, Landlord shall
repair the Premises with reasonable dispatch; however, Landlord’s obligation to repair
the Premises shall be limited to the amount of insurance proceeds actually received by
Landlord. Tenant’s obligation to pay rent shall be suspended while the Premises are
untenantable. If a casualty damages the Premises to the extent that they cannot be
restored to a habitable condition within thirty (30) days, either Party may terminate this
Lease by giving the other party written notice within fifteen (15) days after the casualty.
Landlord shall not be liable for any reasonable delay or for providing housing for Tenant
during repairs.
14. Termination of Lease.
14.1. Tenant may terminate this Lease for any reason upon thirty (30) days written
notice to Landlord.
14.2. Landlord may terminate this Lease for any reason upon ninety (90) days written
notice to Tenant.
14.3. Upon termination of this Lease, Tenant shall surrender the Premises to Landlord
in the same condition they were upon commencement of Lease, normal wear and
tear excepted. Upon termination of this Lease, Tenant shall also notify Landlord
of the move-out date, return all keys to the Premises to Landlord, and transfer all
utility and service accounts into the name of the “County of Oakland.”
15.Default of Lease and Landlord’s Remedies.
15.1. If Tenant defaults on any obligations under this Lease or misrepresents any
information in the application for this lease, Landlord may, on written notice to
Tenant, terminate the Lease and enter the Premises as permitted by law; Tenant
and any other occupants shall surrender the Premises to Landlord by the date
stated in the notice. If Landlord terminates the Lease, Landlord may recover
Landlord’s expenses for enforcing Landlord’s rights under the Lease and
applicable law, including court costs and attorney fees, from Tenant, as permitted
by statute; and rent for the rest of the term of the Lease shall immediately become
due. Tenant may not be liable for the total accelerated amount because of
Landlord’s obligation to minimize damages, and either party may ask a court to
determine the actual amount owed, if any. If Tenant fails to pay rent or any other
sums when due to Landlord, Landlord serves a notice of default on Tenant as
required by law, and Tenant fails to remit the amounts due before the notice
period expires, the amount of court costs and attorney fees incurred by Landlord
in enforcing Landlord’s remedies and allowed by statute shall be added to the
amount of the arrearage.
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SPO Foshia Residential LEASE 2026-Foshia – Springfield Oaks
15.2. It is a violation of this Lease if Tenant, a member of Tenant’s household, or any
other person under Tenant’s control unlawfully manufactures, delivers, possesses
with intent to deliver, or possesses a controlled substance as defined by Michigan
law anywhere on the Premises or surrounding the Premises. Pursuant to
Michigan law, if Tenant violates this provision Landlord may serve a written
demand for possession for termination of this Lease giving Tenant 24 hours’
notice of the Lease termination and demand for possession. Tenant acknowledges
that an order of eviction/writ of restitution may be issued by the court
immediately after the entry of a judgment for possession. Tenant’s
initials:______.
15.3. Hold Over. Tenant may, with Landlord’s permission, continue to occupy the
Premises after the term of this Lease expires without renewing this Lease or
signing another Lease for the Premises. Such tenancy shall be on a month-to-
month basis and subject to the provisions of this Lease except that the monthly
rent shall increase by ten (10) percent from the rent for the last month of the term
of the Lease, and Landlord may increase rent on thirty (30) days’ notice to
Tenant.
16.Notices. Any notices under this Lease shall be in writing and delivered to the recipient
personally or by first class mail fully prepaid at the following locations:
Tenant: Terry Foshia
12080 Clark Road
Davisburg, MI 48350
Landlord: Oakland County Department of
Facilities Management Property Management
One Public Works Drive, Bldg. 95W
Waterford, MI 48328
and
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Director
2800 Watkins Lake Road, Bldg. 97W
Waterford, MI 48328
Unless otherwise required by law, the date of service shall be the date of hand delivery or
the mailing date.
17. Modifications. No modifications of this Lease shall be binding unless they are in writing
and signed by Landlord and Tenant.
18.Whole Agreement. This Lease sets forth the entire agreement between Landlord and
Tenant. There are no verbal or written agreements that are not contained in this Lease
between the parties.
19. Binding Effect. This Lease shall bind and benefit the parties to the Lease and their heirs,
personal representatives, successors, and permitted assigns.
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SPO Foshia Residential LEASE 2026-Foshia – Springfield Oaks
20.Severability. If any provision of this Lease is invalid, unlawful, or unenforceable to any
extent, the rest of the Lease and the application of the provision to the persons or
circumstances other than those for which it is invalid, unlawful, or unenforceable are not
affected.
21.Time of the Essence. Time shall be deemed to be of the essence in the performance of
this Lease.
22.Effective Date. This Lease is effective on the date stated in Section 2.
TENANT LANDLORD
Sign _________________________ Sign__________________________
Print Print
Date_________________________ Date__________________________
Clark
Andersonville
o
Revision Date:Location:
Springfield Oaks
Residential Property
12080 Clark Rd,
Davisburg, MI 48350
SHT. 1 OF 1
Legend
August 19, 2025 By Dean Serafimovski
K:\ParksRec\General\Design\Data_Share\Dean\Residential Lease Properties\12080 Clark Rd
ÊÊ
12080 Clark Road - Existing Residential Property
Springfield Oaks
12080 Clark Rd,
Davisburg, MI 48350
Located At Springfield Oak
www.OaklandCountyParks.com
2800 Watkins Lake Road
Waterford, MI
248-858-0906
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Hall
Scott
Dilley
Andersonville
Broadway
Clark
Eaton
Springfield Oaks Golf Course
12450 Andersonville Road
Davisburg, MI 48350
ÊÊ
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 6
Department: Administration
From: James Dunleavy, Manager – Park Operations
Subject: Groveland Oaks Residential Lease Renewal – Robert Hatt
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
In April 2009, The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission approved the Residential
Property Lease Policy. The purpose of the policy was to set forth procedures and guidelines to
manage residential properties located on Oakland County Parks property. The Oakland County
Parks and Recreation Director shall oversee the implementation and interpretation of this policy.
The property at Groveland Oaks located at 6000 Grange Hall Rd, Holly, MI, is 1,100 square feet
with 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths and a basement was built in 1974.
The house has been occupied by Robert Hatt for several years. We are requesting to move
forward with a 1-year lease, with the standard terms for terminating the lease early. The attached
lease agreement has been prepared and reviewed by Oakland County Corporation Counsel. The
lease rate includes a 2% increase from the prior year’s rent.
As Oakland County Parks continues to modernize operations and align with its long-term Mission
26 goals, staff have identified the need to evaluate the role of residential leases on park property.
These legacy arrangements were originally established to provide on-site caretaking or security,
but in many cases those functions are now performed through professional park operations,
maintenance, and technology systems. Continuing to hold residential leases can limit flexibility
for future park use, capital planning, and asset management. Phasing out residential leases over
time will allow the Commission to repurpose these properties for public benefit, program
expansion, or operational efficiency while ensuring fair treatment of existing tenants and
appropriate stewardship of County assets.
ATTACHMENTS
1.Residential Lease – Hatt – Groveland Oaks
2. Aerial Map for Residential Lease – Hatt - Groveland Oaks
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Move to approve the Residential Lease with Robert Hatt for the Groveland Oaks Residential
Property located at 6000 Grange Hall Rd, Holly, MI for a 1-year term effective January 1, 2026,
through December 31, 2026. In addition, staff is directed to develop and present to the
Commission a plan for phasing out residential lease arrangements on park property, including
options for future property use, maintenance, or disposition, consistent with the long-term mission
and operational needs of Oakland County Parks.
RETURN TO AGENDA
1
GRV Hatt Residential LEASE 2026– Groveland Oaks
RESIDENTIAL LEASE AGREEMENT
NOTICE: MICHIGAN LAW ESTABLISHES RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS FOR PARTIES
TO RENTAL AGREEMENTS. THIS AGREEMENT IS REQUIRED TO COMPLY WITH
THE TRUTH IN RENTING ACT. IF YOU HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT THE
INTERPRETATION OR LEGALITY OF A PROVISION OF THIS AGREEMENT, YOU
MAY WANT TO SEEK ASSISTANCE FROM A LAWYER OR OTHER QUALIFIED
PERSON.
This Lease Agreement ("Lease") is entered into between the County of Oakland, 1200 North
Telegraph, Pontiac, MI 48341 ("Landlord"), by the through its statutory agent the Oakland
County Parks and Recreation Commission (“OCPRC”) and Robert Hatt ("Tenant") according to
the terms and conditions set forth below.
1. Premises. Tenant leases from landlord the real property located at 6000 Grange Hall
Road, Holly, MI ("Premises"), together with any furnishings, fixtures, personal property,
and appurtenances provided by Landlord for Tenant’s use.
2. Term. The term of this Lease shall be for one (1) year, beginning on January 1, 2026
and ending on December 31, 2026. References in this Lease to the term of the Lease
shall include any renewal term(s). Tenant shall receive possession of the Premises upon
execution of the Lease.
3. Tenant Monetary Obligations.
3.1. The rental rate for the first year is set by taking the market rate and applying the
discount for performing residential duties. The rent is then increased by 2%
based on the previous year’s rent. Tenant shall pay Landlord the following rent on
or before the first day of each month during the term of this Lease:
January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026 $940.00 per month
3.2. The rent shall be paid by check or money order made payable to the “County of
Oakland” and sent to the following address: Oakland County Parks and
Recreation, 2800 Watkins Lake Road, Waterford, Michigan 48328 or another
address designated by Landlord in writing.
3.3. Tenant shall pay the first monthly installment when Tenant executes this Lease.
The first monthly installment shall be pro-rated for such month, if the Lease is
executed on another day than the first day of the month.
3.4. Tenant shall pay Landlord a late fee of $25 for each monthly installment not
received by Landlord within five days of its due date. This increase shall be
considered additional rent and shall compensate Landlord for costs incurred
2
GRV Hatt Residential LEASE 2026– Groveland Oaks
because of late payments. Landlord’s right to collect this additional rent shall be
in addition to Landlord’s right to take action under other provisions of this Lease
for Tenant’s default in paying rent. Tenant shall pay all additional rent to
Landlord promptly after the due date of the delinquent installment. All rent paid
after the due date and payments to cover checks that have been returned for
insufficient funds must be paid at the place designated for payment, by cashier’s
check, certified check, or money order.
3.5. During the term of this Lease, Tenant shall obtain and maintain comprehensive
personal liability or tenant’s form insurance coverage in the minimum amount of
One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000.00). Tenant shall also provide the
Landlord with a certificate of insurance coverage listing the County of Oakland
and its employees, officers, and elected and appointed officials as additional
insureds.
3.6. A tenant who has a reasonable apprehension of present danger to him or her or his
or her child from domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking may have special
statutory rights to seek a release of rental obligation under MCL 554.601b.
4. Use of Premises.
4.1. Tenant shall use the Premises for private residential purposes only. No persons
other than the following listed person(s) shall occupy the Premises for more than
fourteen (14) days during the term of this Lease without the prior written approval
of Landlord: Cattie Hatt
Landlord’s approval shall be given by the OCPRC Director or his or her designee.
4.2. Tenant shall not do any of the following or allow another person to do any of the
following:
4.2.1. Create any excessive noise or public nuisance;
4.2.2. Do anything to the Premises or its surroundings that may be hazardous or
that will cause Landlord’s insurance to be cancelled or premiums to
increase;
4.2.3. Deface or damage any part of the Premises;
4.2.4. Change the locks or install any additional locks or bolts without
Landlord’s prior written approval. Landlord’s approval shall be given by
the OCPRC Director or his or her designee;
4.2.5. Place a waterbed or other heavy article on the Premises without
Landlord’s prior written approval. Landlord’s approval shall be given by
the OCPRC Director or his or her designee;
4.2.6. Install any equipment or appliances that, in Landlord’s opinion, would
cause an unsafe condition on or around the Premises;
4.2.7. Accumulate refuse on or around the Premises that might pose a health
hazard to Tenant or to the surrounding properties;
4.2.8. Permit any flammable liquids or explosives to be kept on or around the
Premises; and
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GRV Hatt Residential LEASE 2026– Groveland Oaks
4.2.9. Bring any animals on the Premises without Landlord’s prior written
approval. Landlord’s approval shall be given by the OCPRC Director or
his or her designee.
4.3. Tenant Duties.
4.3.1. To the extent permitted by law, Tenant shall secure and protect the Park
Property and facilities therein, especially during "Park Closed" hours.
This shall include contacting and coordinating with police, fire or other
agencies as may be required and the preparation of an Unusual Incident
Report as required by Landlord.
4.3.2. Tenant shall arrange for emergency repair and maintenance services for
Park Property and facilities, as needed.
4.3.3. Tenant shall make reports to the Park Supervisor or other entity as may
be required by Landlord.
4.3.4. Landlord shall install smoke-detection devices for the Premises along
with batteries to operate the devices. Tenant must regularly test the
devices to ensure that they are operational and if not notify Landlord
immediately. Tenant must never remove batteries from smoke
detection devices, except when necessary to replace the batteries.
4.3.5. The performance of “tenant duties,” set forth in the Lease does not and
is not intended to create an employee/employer relationship between
Landlord and Tenant.
5. Use of Illegal Substances. Tenant shall not violate or knowingly allow another person to
violate federal, state, or local laws regarding the use of controlled substances or the use
of alcohol by minors in or around the Premises. When aware of a violation of this
section, Landlord will file a formal police report.
6. Condition of Premises.
6.1. Except as otherwise expressly stated herein or in an Amendment to this Lease,
Tenant acknowledges that no representations were made by Landlord about the
condition of the Premises or promises to alter or to improve the Premises before
or during the term of the Lease.
6.2. Throughout the term of the Lease, Tenant shall keep the Premises in a good and
clean condition and shall allow no waste of the Premises or any utilities.
6.3. Except for normal wear and tear, Tenants shall return the Premises to Landlord in
the same condition as they were upon commencement of this Lease, including
cleanliness.
7. Utilities and Services for Premises. Tenant is responsible for the costs of utilities and
services for the Premises and for establishing accounts, if they are not already
established for the term of this Lease including but not limited to the following:
(a) garbage removal; (b) water and sewer; (c) gas/propane; (d) electricity; (e) ice
removal, including salting the driveway and any walks surrounding the Premises or on
the Premises; (f) telephones; (g) cable television; (h) Internet; and (i) cleaning for the
4
GRV Hatt Residential LEASE 2026– Groveland Oaks
interior of the building located on the Premises. All accounts for utilities and services
shall be in the name of Tenant.
8. Maintenance, Repairs, and Damage to Premises.
8.1. Landlord shall be responsible for snow removal and lawn/grounds services for the
Premises.
8.2. Landlord shall provide repair and maintenance for the Premises and its parking lot
or parking area, including but not limited to, building infrastructure, HVAC
system, utility infrastructure, plumbing and electrical system. Tenant shall notify
Landlord, in a timely manner and without delay, when there is a need for repairs
to the Premises.
8.3. Except for normal wear and tear to the Premises, Tenant shall be liable for any
damage to the Premises or other property of Landlord that is caused by the acts or
omissions of Tenant or Tenant’s guests, including but not limited to broken glass
and lost or broken keys. If damage occurs, Landlord or its agents shall make the
necessary repairs, and Tenant shall reimburse Landlord for all costs associated
with the repairs. Such reimbursement shall be paid by Tenant within thirty (30)
days of receiving an invoice from Landlord. If Landlord makes a claim and
receives payment under its property insurance for damage to the Premises, then
Tenant shall only be liable to Landlord for the amount of the deductible for the
property insurance for the Premises. Landlord shall send an invoice to Tenant for
the amount of the deductible and Tenant shall pay this amount within thirty (30)
days of receiving the invoice.
8.4. To the extent permitted by law, Landlord and Landlord’s agents shall not be liable
for any damage to property or loss of property that is caused by theft or casualty
on the Premises. Landlord recommends that Tenant obtain insurance to protect
Tenant’s personal property against such loss or damage.
9. Decorations and Alterations to Premises. Tenant shall not alter or decorate the Premises,
including but not limited to, removing any furnishings Landlord provides to Tenant,
driving nails into the woodwork, painting or using any adhesive material on the walls
without prior written approval from Landlord. Landlord’s approval shall be given by the
OCPRC Director or his or her designee. Landlord’s approval of a particular decoration
or alteration shall not be deemed consent to future decorations or alterations.
10. Assignment and Sublease of Premises. Tenant shall not assign or sublease the Premises
or any portion thereof.
11. Access to the Premises. Tenant shall allow Landlord and Landlord’s agents reasonable
access to the Premises to inspect, repair, alter, or improve the Premises. Landlord and
Landlord’s agents shall have immediate access to the Premises in case of an emergency
or if an emergency repair to the Premises is required. Tenant shall also allow insurance
carriers and representatives, fire department inspectors, police, or local health authorities
to inspect the Premises. Tenant shall allow Landlord or Landlord’s agents to show the
Premises to prospective tenants or purchasers at reasonable times during the sixty (60)
days prior to the expiration of this Lease.
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GRV Hatt Residential LEASE 2026– Groveland Oaks
12. Vacation or Abandonment of the Premises. If Tenant removes substantially all Tenant’s
property from the Premises for a period of thirty (30) days, Landlord may immediately
enter and redecorate the Premises without abatement of rent and proceed as if Tenant
terminated this Lease. These acts by Landlord shall not affect Tenant’s obligations
under this Lease. If Tenant abandons the Premises before the Lease expires, all rent for
the remainder of the term of the Lease shall immediately become due.
13. Damage or Destruction of the Premises. If a casualty partially destroys the Premises but
they can be restored to a tenantable condition within thirty (30) days, Landlord shall
repair the Premises with reasonable dispatch; however, Landlord’s obligation to repair
the Premises shall be limited to the amount of insurance proceeds actually received by
Landlord. Tenant’s obligation to pay rent shall be suspended while the Premises are
untenantable. If a casualty damages the Premises to the extent that they cannot be
restored to a habitable condition within thirty (30) days, either Party may terminate this
Lease by giving the other party written notice within fifteen (15) days after the casualty.
Landlord shall not be liable for any reasonable delay or for providing housing for Tenant
during repairs.
14. Termination of Lease.
14.1. Tenant may terminate this Lease for any reason upon thirty (30) days written
notice to Landlord.
14.2. Landlord may terminate this Lease for any reason upon ninety (90) days written
notice to Tenant.
14.3. Upon termination of this Lease, Tenant shall surrender the Premises to Landlord
in the same condition they were upon commencement of Lease, normal wear and
tear excepted. Upon termination of this Lease, Tenant shall also notify Landlord
of the move-out date, return all keys to the Premises to Landlord, and transfer all
utility and service accounts into the name of the “County of Oakland.”
15. Default of Lease and Landlord’s Remedies.
15.1. If Tenant defaults on any obligations under this Lease or misrepresents any
information in the application for this lease, Landlord may, on written notice to
Tenant, terminate the Lease and enter the Premises as permitted by law; Tenant
and any other occupants shall surrender the Premises to Landlord by the date
stated in the notice. If Landlord terminates the Lease, Landlord may recover
Landlord’s expenses for enforcing Landlord’s rights under the Lease and
applicable law, including court costs and attorney fees, from Tenant, as permitted
by statute; and rent for the rest of the term of the Lease shall immediately become
due. Tenant may not be liable for the total accelerated amount because of
Landlord’s obligation to minimize damages, and either party may ask a court to
determine the actual amount owed, if any. If Tenant fails to pay rent or any other
sums when due to Landlord, Landlord serves a notice of default on Tenant as
required by law, and Tenant fails to remit the amounts due before the notice
period expires, the amount of court costs and attorney fees incurred by Landlord
in enforcing Landlord’s remedies and allowed by statute shall be added to the
amount of the arrearage.
6
GRV Hatt Residential LEASE 2026– Groveland Oaks
15.2. It is a violation of this Lease if Tenant, a member of Tenant’s household, or any
other person under Tenant’s control unlawfully manufactures, delivers, possesses
with intent to deliver, or possesses a controlled substance as defined by Michigan
law anywhere on the Premises or surrounding the Premises. Pursuant to
Michigan law, if Tenant violates this provision Landlord may serve a written
demand for possession for termination of this Lease giving Tenant 24 hours’
notice of the Lease termination and demand for possession. Tenant acknowledges
that an order of eviction/writ of restitution may be issued by the court
immediately after the entry of a judgment for possession. Tenant’s
initials: .
15.3. Hold Over. Tenant may, with Landlord’s permission, continue to occupy the
Premises after the term of this Lease expires without renewing this Lease or
signing another Lease for the Premises. Such tenancy shall be on a month-to-
month basis and subject to the provisions of this Lease except that the monthly
rent shall increase by ten (10) percent from the rent for the last month of the term
of the Lease, and Landlord may increase rent on thirty (30) days’ notice to
Tenant.
16. Notices. Any notices under this Lease shall be in writing and delivered to the recipient
personally or by first class mail fully prepaid at the following locations:
Tenant: Robert Hatt
6000 Grange Hall Road
Holly, MI 48442
Landlord: Oakland County Department of
Facilities Management Property Management
One Public Works Drive, Bldg. 95W
Waterford, MI 48328
and
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Director
2800 Watkins Lake Road, Bldg. 97W
Waterford, MI 48328
Unless otherwise required by law, the date of service shall be the date of hand delivery or
the mailing date.
17. Modifications. No modifications of this Lease shall be binding unless they are in writing
and signed by Landlord and Tenant.
18. Whole Agreement. This Lease sets forth the entire agreement between Landlord and
Tenant. There are no verbal or written agreements that are not contained in this Lease
between the parties.
19. Binding Effect. This Lease shall bind and benefit the parties to the Lease and their heirs,
personal representatives, successors, and permitted assigns.
7
GRV Hatt Residential LEASE 2026– Groveland Oaks
20. Severability. If any provision of this Lease is invalid, unlawful, or unenforceable to any
extent, the rest of the Lease and the application of the provision to the persons or
circumstances other than those for which it is invalid, unlawful, or unenforceable are not
affected.
21. Time of the Essence. Time shall be deemed to be of the essence in the performance of
this Lease.
22. Effective Date. This Lease is effective on the date stated in Section 2.
TENANT LANDLORD
Sign Sign
Print Print
Date _ Date
Groveland Oaks County Park
14555 Dixie Highway
Groveland Oaks
Residential Property
6000 Grange Hall Rd,
Holly, MI 48442 SHT. 1 OF 1
o
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
2800 Watkins Lake Road Waterford, MI
248-858-0906
www.OaklandCountyParks.com
Maintenance
Building
Carpenter/
Storage Building
Cold Storage
Building
6000 Grange Hall Rd,
Holly, MI 48442
Located At Groveland Oaks
Duck House
Storage Facility
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Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 7
Department: Administration
From: James Dunleavy, Manager – Park Operations
Subject: Springfield Oaks – First Amendment to Telecommunications License Agreement
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
The County of Oakland, a Michigan municipal and constitutional corporation (“Licensor”), and
Cellco Partnership d/b/a Verizon Wireless (“Licensee”). Licensor and Licensee (or their
predecessors in interest) entered into a certain Telecommunications License Agreement with a
commencement date of September 1, 2009, pursuant to which Licensee is licensing from Licensor
a portion of that certain property located at 12451 Andersonville Rd, Davisburg, Michigan 48350.
This agreement placed the cell tower on top of the Springfield Oaks water tower, providing income
without detracting from the usable open park space. This agreement generates approximately
$39,000 annual revenue.
The proposed amendment will extend the Telecommunications License Agreement while
increasing the revenue generated to $48,765 beginning September 1, 2029, with an annual 3%
increase beginning September 1, 2030.
ATTACHMENTS
1.First Amendment to the Telecommunications License Agreement
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Move to approve the First Amendment to the License Agreement between The County of
Oakland, a Michigan municipal and constitutional corporation (“Licensor”), and Cellco Partnership
d/b/a Verizon Wireless (“Licensee”).
RETURN TO AGENDA
VzW Site Name/ID: Andersonville Mi-1064 / 5000374221
1
VzW Firecracker Amendment – June 2, 2025
FIRST AMENDMENT TO TELECOMMUNICATIONS LICENSE AGREEMENT
This First Amendment to Telecommunications License Agreement (“First Amendment”)
is made, and shall be effective, as of the last date of the signatures below (“Effective Date”),
between County of Oakland, a Michigan municipal and constitutional corporation (“Licensor”),
and Cellco Partnership d/b/a Verizon Wireless (“Licensee”). Licensor and Licensee (or their
predecessors in interest) entered into that certain Telecommunications License Agreement with a
commencement date of September 1, 2009, as may have been previously assigned, (the
“Agreement”), pursuant to which Licensee is licensing from Licensor a portion of that certain
property located at 12451 Andersonville Rd, Davisburg, Michigan 48350, as more particularly
described in the Agreement. Licensor and Licensee may be referenced in this First Amendment
individually as a “Party” or collectively as the “Parties.”
In consideration of the mutual covenants and promises contained in this First Amendment,
and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby
acknowledged by the Parties, the Parties agree to amend the Agreement as follows:
1. Term. Notwithstanding anything contained in the Agreement to the contrary, the
Agreement shall expire on August 31, 2029. Commencing on September 1, 2029, the Agreement
shall be extended for 5 years (“Initial Extension Term”). The term of the Agreement shall thereafter
automatically extend for 1 additional terms of 5 years (“Additional Extension Term”), unless
Licensee terminates the Agreement by giving Licensor notice of such termination at least 30 days
prior to the expiration of the Initial Extension Term or then-current Additional Extension Term or
the Agreement is terminated as provided therein.
2. Rent. Commencing on September 1, 2029, the annual rent shall be $48,765.00 to
be paid annually, in advance, to Licensor or such other person as Licensor may designate in writing
at least 30 days in advance of any rental payment date. Beginning on September 1, 2030, the annual
rent shall increase by 3% over the annual rent then in effect and by 3% over the then current annual
rent on each one-year anniversary of September 1, 2030 thereafter.
3. Notice Address. The notice address for Licensee in the Agreement is hereby
amended as follows:
If to Licensee: Verizon Wireless
Attn: Network Real Estate
180 Washington Valley Road
Bedminster, NJ 07921
With a copy to: Basking Ridge Mail Hub
Attn: Legal Intake
One Verizon Way
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
4. Continued Effect. Except as amended hereby, all of the other terms and conditions
of the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect. In the event of a conflict between any term
and provision of the Agreement and this First Amendment, the terms and provisions of this First
VzW Site Name/ID: Andersonville Mi-1064 / 5000374221
2
VzW Firecracker Amendment – June 2, 2025
Amendment shall control. In addition, except as otherwise stated in this First Amendment, all
initially capitalized terms shall have the same respective defined meaning stated in the Agreement.
All captions are for reference purposes only and shall not be used in the construction or
interpretation of this First Amendment.
5.Ratification and Reaffirmation. Licensor and Licensee do hereby ratify, reaffirm,
adopt, contract for and agree to be, or continue to be, bound by all of the terms and conditions of
the above-referenced Agreement. Except as modified by this First Amendment, all of the terms
and conditions of the Agreement are incorporated by reference herein as if set forth at length. It is
acknowledged and agreed that the execution of this First Amendment by the Parties is not intended
to and shall not constitute a release of either Party from any obligation or liability which said Party
has to the other pursuant to the Agreement.
[SIGNATURE PAGE TO FOLLOW]
VzW Site Name/ID: Andersonville Mi-1064 / 5000374221
3
VzW Firecracker Amendment – June 2, 2025
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this First Amendment is effective and entered into as of the
date last written below.
Licensor:
COUNTY OF OAKLAND, a Michigan
municipal and constitutional corporation
By:
Name:
Title:
Date:
Licensee:
Cellco Partnership
d/b/a Verizon Wireless
By:
Name:
Title:
Date:
o
Revision Date: October 14, 2025 By Dean Serafimovski
Location: K:\ParksRec\General\Design\Data_Share\Dean\Land Acquisition\Mitigation Maps\SPR Cell Tower Site Map
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Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 8
Department: Administration
From: Alan Jaros, Deputy Director
Subject: Bird City Designation Application
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
Bird City was created by the American Bird Conservancy (ABC) and Environment for the
Americas (EFTA) with support from US Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS). This program focuses
on bird conservation and habitation protection in the Western Hemisphere, and the Michigan
chapter was created with support from Michigan Audubon. Bird City recognizes communities that
are committed to bird conservation and habitat preservation by highlighting management actions
and education efforts.
Bird City focuses on four key areas: habitat protection and restoration, reducing hazards to birds,
engagement and education, and sustainability. Four communities in Michigan have been certified
as Bird Cities, and Oakland County was approached by the Oakland Bird Alliance (a chapter of
Michigan Audubon) to enroll in this emerging program and highlight the bird friendly work
occurring within the county.
Oakland County Parks and Oakland County Economic Development staff have partnered in the
planning of these efforts with Oakland County Parks taking the lead in applying for the designation
using work already occurring on our parklands. OCP staff have submitted the intent to apply to
Bird City Michigan and are ready to submit the full application package following approvals from
OCPRC and the Oakland County Board of Commissioners.
ATTACHMENTS
1.Oakland County Bird City Michigan Resolution
2.Draft Oakland County Bird City Michigan Application
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Move to approve the attached resolution and forward to the Oakland County Board of
Commissioners for their approval
RETURN TO AGENDA
Oakland County Bird City Michigan Resolution
Whereas, birds are some of the most beautiful and easily observed wildlife that share our
communities and many citizens recognize and value birds that are residents and those that pass
through during their migration seasons, and
Whereas, birds play an important ecological role in our community, controlling insect pests and
contributing to pollination and seed dispersal, and
Whereas, public awareness and concern are crucial components of migratory bird conservation
and citizens enthusiastic about birds, informed about the threats they face, and empowered to
help address those threats can directly contribute to maintaining health bird populations, and
Whereas, sound policies and practices enhancing natural ecosystems and reducing threats to
birds also make healthier communities for people, and
Whereas, Bird City is an initiative to build relationships within local communities and guide
action to protect and conserve birds, and
Whereas, Oakland County Parks and Recreation supports the County of Oakland’s application to
the Bird City initiative and supports the inclusion of Oakland County as a Bird City community.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission
supports Oakland County’s application to the Bird City program and forwards this
recommendation to the Oakland County Board of Commissioners for their approval.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that participation in the Bird City Michigan program shall not create
any financial, legal, or operational obligation on the part of Oakland County or Oakland County
Parks, and that participation may be discontinued at any time at the discretion of the Oakland
County Parks and Recreation Commission.
ADOPTED by Ebony Bagley, Chair, of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission, this
[day] day of [month / year].
Signed ________________________________________
Title _________________________________________.
Bird City Program – Oakland County, Michigan
Joined Bird City: 2025
Population: 1.27 million
Incorporated: 1820
Parks Area: 7,118 acres
1. Habitat
1.1. Promote best management of community habitat
1.1.3 –Assemble the Bird City Team: Form/maintain a diverse team that supports and
manages participation in the Bird City program, including working with communities and
managing the application and renewal process. (Please update and upload your Team List)
Consider municipalities, chambers, conservation organizations, sustainability or
environmental quality boards as Team Members.
Our team is comprised of staff from Oakland County Parks Natural Resources
Department, Oakland County Parks CISMA, Oakland County Parks Nature
Education, Oakland County Economic Development Office, Oakland Conservation
District, Oakland Board of Commissioners, and Oakland Bird Alliance.
1 . 1 . 7 - Document any advanced training completed by habitat managers. Examples
include forest / prairie / grassland management training, often through a university or state
natural resources department or similar.
Oakland County Parks Natural Resource Managers continue to keep up to date with the
latest management training through courses and conferences. Since 2023, our staff have
attended the following continuing education.
• Michigan Wetland Association: Wetland Invasives and Native Plants You May
Confuse 3/1/23
• Stewardship Network Conference: 2023, 2024, 2025
• Michigan Wetland Association: Prairie Fen, Southern Wet Meadow & Mesic Sand
Prairie 6/11/24
• MI Healthy Climate Conference 4/11/23
• SEMCOG Natural & Working Lands 10/18/23
• Natural Areas Association: Best Practices for Discussing Invasive Species 1/16/24
• MSU: Tree 101 Workshop 4/20/23
• ISA Tree ID 7/26/23
• MGIA – Arborist Rigging Techniques 9/18/23
• MSU: Pollinator Protection for Land Managers 2/3/23
• MSU: Designing Your Landscape with Native Plants 2/7/23
• WAM Native Plant Conference 3/3/24
• Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior Training 2/10/25
1.2. Create and protect habitat
1 . 2 . 1 - Create or continue a project that creates or restores bird habitat and/ or increases
habitat connectivity in your community.
Oakland County Parks Natural Resources Department is continuously restoring parkland to
native habitat through invasive species control and native plant/ tree plantings. In 2024, the
Natural Resources Department conducted the following work:
No Mow Areas in Parks: 208.6 acres
Winter mowing/ Physical Control: 424.6 acres
Prescribed Burns: 542.4 acres
Invasive species controlled by Herbicide: 609.3 acres
Planting/ Seeding Native Plants: 142.6 acres
Forestry Tree Plantings: 206 acres
In addition, through Oakland County CISMA (Cooperative Invasive Species Management
Areas) CHIPs (Community Habitat Improvement Projects) grants to local municipalities,
more public land was restored to create habitat for birds and other animals. The following
work was completed in 2024.
Planting/ Seeding Native Plants: 1.4 acres
Winter Mowing CHIPs Projects: 14.2 acres
Prescribed Burns CHIPs Projects: 22.1 acres
Herbicide application CHIPs Projects: 107 acres
1.3. Promote Native Plants
1 . 3 . 3 - Work with local growers and suppliers to increase / ensure supply of locally
appropriate native plants. Cultivate and publicize reliable suppliers. Organize, support or
promote native plant sales.
Oakland County Parks provides resources and tools for residents about native plants on
our website. OCP has facilitated a native plant giveaway event since 2021 and, through that
event, has given away over 600 plant kits to residents yearly. In 2025, OCP enacted three
native plant events (two spring days, one fall day) to increase public access to garden with
native plants, learn more about the ecosystem services provided by native plants, and how
to effectively grow native plants. On the native plant event page, OCP provides a list of local
native plant growers to increase access for the public, and in the spring, we aggregate
native plant sales in a flyer listing local public sale days for public awareness.
Oakland County Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area is a hub for the Go
Beyond Beauty program. This program provides information to retailers and the public
about ornamental invasive species that are still present for sale and provides native and
non-invasive alternatives for common garden escape invasive plants. Retailers that join
this program are listed and promoted on the hub pages.
Native plant event page:
https://www.oakgov.com/home/showpublisheddocument/26943/638810025475670000
GoBeyondBeauty hub page:
https://www.gobeyondbeauty.org/oc-cisma.html
1.4. Control invasive plants
1 . 4 . 1 - Educate property owners about invasive plant species and their control.
Oakland County Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA) is a collaborative
comprising local government, municipalities, non-profit, and environmental organizations.
Oakland County CISMA provides information about invasive plant species and their control
to the public through tabling events, emails, phone calls, site visits, and our website:
oaklandinvasivespecies.org. So far this year (as of 9/1/25), OC CISMA has over 950 direct
contacts with the public for invasive species information and control.
1 . 4 . 2 - Provide evidence that your community works on public lands to control invasive
species that have significant negative impacts on bird habitat.
Oakland County Parks Natural Resources Department works to remove invasive species
and promote native plants across the park's natural spaces. All Oakland County Parks are
public lands and are free for residents of Oakland County. Invasive species negatively
affect bird habitat, so native plant restoration increases bird habitat. Oakland County Parks
controls invasive species through a number of methods, such as winter brush mowing,
prescribed burns, and targeted herbicide use. In 2024, the Natural Resources department
conducted invasive species management on the following acreage:
Winter mowing/ Physical Control: 424.6 acres
Prescribed Burns: 542.4 acres
Invasive species controlled by Herbicide: 609.3 acres
1.5. Provide nesting habitat
1 . 5 . 1 - Develop and manage a program to create and monitor nest structures. Consider
providing interpretive signage or other media that is visible to the public.
Oakland County Parks has participated in the Cornell Nest Watch Program since its
inception in 2013. Oakland County Parks currently has 177 active nest boxes across 7
Oakland County Parks monitored by 34 volunteers.
2. Threats to Birds
2.2. Address collisions with glass
2 . 2 . 1 - Provide property owners with information on how to protect birds from window
strikes (e.g., online links, brochures).
Red Oaks Nature Center displays the ‘7 Simple Actions to Help Birds’ flyer near our bird
feeding station, which includes making windows safer. The bird collision stickers we have
on our windows serve as an example to the public of making windows safer for birds.
2 . 2 . 3 - Demonstrate ongoing efforts to reduce window collisions at building(s) within your
community. Consider creating/sharing case study examples of mitigation.
Red Oaks Nature Center has bird collision stickers on their windows and has installed bird
feeding stations at the Madison Heights Library and Active Adult Center, within five feet of
the windows, to reduce deadly window strikes. Wint Nature Center at Independence Oaks
has bird collision stickers on their windows as well.
2.3. Address light pollution
2 . 3 . 1 - Provide information about the impact of light pollution and how residents and
businesses can reduce artificial light at night (ALAN).
Nature Education frequently discusses light pollution with the public, particularly during
spring and fall migration, as well as in connection with our astronomy and planetarium
programming. Addison Oaks County Park also hosts a large special event titled ‘Meteors
and More’ each August surrounding the Perseid meteor shower, which affords a great
opportunity to talk about light pollution within Oakland County.
2.4. Address direct human-related threats
2 . 4 . 3 - Implement actions to reduce pollution and associated entanglement and
ingestion risks (e.g. fees or bans on single-use plastics, secure collection for fishing
line/trash, clean up events).
Oakland County Parks has fishing line disposal at the Upper Bushman Fishing Pier
(Independence Oaks).
3. Education & Engagement
3 . 1 . Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day
3 . 1 . 1 - Host a World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) event annually to celebrate birds in your
community and to raise awareness of migratory birds, threats to their populations, and
ways you can help to protect them. Your WMBD may be an education program, an
educational bird walk, and/or a festival. It should incorporate the current or prior
conservation themes. In your narrative, include 1) the date, timing, 2) description of the
event, 3) detail how you incorporated the WMBD theme, and 4) Please register your event
and include a link to your event on the WMBD map in your narrative. Timing and scope of
event TBD locally. If the event has not yet occurred, please share your detailed plans.
Oakland County Parks will host its first World Migratory Bird Day Event on 10/11/25
between 8:00-9:30 am at the Red Oaks Nature Center in Madison Heights, Michigan. The
WMBD theme was easily incorporated, as October is prime migration in Southeastern
Michigan.
Event Description: Flock together at the Red Oaks Nature Preserve to search for our
feathered friends as they undertake their perilous journey south for the winter. During this
World Migratory Bird Day walk-and-talk, we’ll learn why and how birds migrate, as well as
how you can help them along the way. We’ll discuss citizen science projects and how you
can become involved, including eBird, FeederWatch, and the Great Backyard Bird Count.
https://www.migratorybirdday.org/events/
3 . 2 . Increase awareness of birds and their habitats
3 . 2 . 3 - Create or ensure that there are e-Bird hotspots for all publicly accessible parks,
natural areas, preserves, etc.
Oakland County Parks has e-Bird hotspots for the following parks:
Addison Oaks: 157 species
Groveland Oaks: 66 species
Highland Oaks: 167 species
Independence Oaks: 176 species
Lyon Oaks: 154 species
Orion Oaks: 179 species
Pontiac Oaks: 18 species
Red Oaks: 173 species
Rose Oaks: 166 species
Southfield Oaks: 14 species
Springfield Oaks: 11 species
Waterford Oaks: 92 species
Oak Park Woods: 39 species
3 . 2 . 4 - Develop a birding checklist [KS1]for your area and make it available to citizens and
tourist outlets in print and/or online.
Oakland County Parks has the following birding checklist available on our website:
https://www.oakgov.com/home/showpublisheddocument/18346/638265012007930000
***Conservation statues on the checklist are being updated***
Red Oaks Nature Center also partners with Wild Birds Unlimited to provide copies of this
birding checklist at their physical location in Royal Oak, Michigan.
3 . 3 . Educate and engage all ages
3 . 3 . 1 - Provide ongoing bird and conservation-related programs appropriate for children,
youth, and families.
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Nature Education staff present at Wild Birds
Unlimited of Royal Oak, generally twice a year:
• 2/17/2024: Great Backyard Bird Count
• 10/2/2024: Wings over Michigan - Fall Migration
• 2/15/2025: Great Backyard Bird Count
• 10/11/2025: World Migratory Bird Day
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Nature Education staff have also assisted the
Oakland Bird Alliance with the Christmas Bird Count at Orion Oaks County Park, followed
by hosting the OBA for their Tally-Rally following the count:
• 12/16/2023: 21 species recorded in 4.4 hours and 7.19 miles of foot travel.
• 12/14/2024: 14 species recorded in 5.4 hours and 10.63 miles of foot travel.
• 12/20/2025:
Red Oaks Nature Center has also recently hosted the following bird and conservation-
related programming:
• 6/2/2023: First Green at Lyon Oaks Golf Course – Migration Madness
• 5/4/2024: Restore in the Outdoors – Birding Hike
• 4/12/2025: Birding for Beginners
• 6/14/2025: Oakland Bird Alliance Young Birders Club
Wint Nature Center has also recently hosted the following bird and conservation-related
programming:
• 4/27/2024: Spring Migration Birding Hike with Clarkston Area Backyard Birders
• 4/19/2025: Intro to Birding at Clarkston-Independence District Library
Wint Nature Center also hosts the Clarkston Area Backyard Birders monthly meetings
which include various guest speakers, some of whom are Oakland County Parks Nature
Education staff:
• 6/30/2021 - 10/29/2025: Last Wednesday of each month between 6:00-8:00 pm
3 . 3 . 4 - Promote and support a bird club or other environmentally/ecologically minded
club.
Red Oaks Nature Center’s bird feeding station has been sponsored by Wild Birds Unlimited
of Royal Oak since approximately 2013. As the sponsorship developed into a partnership,
nature education staff began presenting at the WBU location in Royal Oak. We now share
pamphlets and resources for bird conservation and bird-related programming
opportunities.
As mentioned in 3.3.1, Wint Nature Center hosts the Clarkston Area Backyard Birders'
monthly meetings.
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Nature Education staff also support the Oakland
Bird Alliance through educational programming and hosting the yearly tally-rally for the
Christmas Bird Count (3.3.1).
Oakland County Parks supports Black to the Land – a coalition of Black, Brown, and
Indigenous nature enthusiasts, intent on helping people to actively engage in meaningful
outdoor experiences. OCPR started to collaborate with Black to the Land on outdoor
recreation events and program in 2024. To date, OCPR has co-hosted 2 moonlight kayaking
events, one nature education program, and a weekend-long campout at Camp Wilderness,
located within Independence Oaks. OCPR plans to expand our nature education offerings
to the group, with specific programs related to young birders through their tree school
program.
Oakland County Parks supports LGBTQ+ Outdoors – a group whose mission is to empower
the LGBTQIA+ community to connect with nature and each other by creating safe, inclusive
outdoor spaces and fostering a love for the outdoors while breaking down stereotypes.
OCPR began to partner with LGBTQ+ Outdoors in 2025. To date, OCPR has co-hosted a
kayak nature observation at Independence Oaks; a Buhl Lake Loop hike at Addison Oaks; a
nature observation hike on Belle Isle; and a weekend-long campout at Camp Wilderness,
located within Independence Oaks. Both the kayaking event and hike on Belle Isle focused
on enjoying the natural environment around the participants, and with nature guides
present to point out species of birds, herpes, and the flora and fauna observed on the
outing. OCPR plans to continue the partnership with planned archery 101 and cross-
country skiing events, as well as co-hosting nature education programming offered for
LGBTQ+ youth and families to learn more about all of the native species in Oakland County.
3 . 4 . Ensure access to nature
3 . 4 . 4 - Develop or maintain one or more accessible nature/birding sites for visitors
regardless of physical abilities. Add these to the Birdability trail map.
Red Oaks Nature Center at Friendship Woods has 1.4 miles of accessible trails. Red Oaks
is an eBird Hotspot and is very popular during migration season.
Pontiac Oaks
3 . 5 . Involve the community in conservation and stewardship
3 . 5 . 2 - Involve schools, garden clubs, or other organizations in bird-conservation
activities.
Oakland County Parks CISMA provides a Michigan Audubon and Michigan Bird-Friendly
Communities co-developed “Michigan Native garden Design: for the birds” brochure at
public outreach events and native plant events to educate the public on the ecosystem
services of native plants and increased habitat that native plant gardens provide for birds.
As previously mentioned, Red Oaks Nature Center partners with Wild Birds Unlimited of
Royal Oak, primarily for educational purposes related to bird conservation, through
programming and pamphlets.
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Nature Education staff have also visited the
environmental club at Hiller Elementary in Madison Heights in order to speak about native
gardening and habitat protection for all species, including birds.
“Michigan Native garden Design: for the birds” brochure:
https://www.michiganaudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Michigan-Native-
Garden-Design-for-the-Birds.pdf
3 . 5 . 3 - Create and maintain bird feeding stations at parks, nature centers, schools and
tourism / lodging sites. Consider incorporating education or monitoring activities.
Red Oaks and Wint Nature Centers both provide bird feeding stations visible from inside
the nature center. The Nature Center Staff manages the bird feeding stations. Red Oaks
Nature Center has a partnership with its local Wild Birds Unlimited store in Royal Oak that
supplies the seed for their feeders.
By leveraging their partnership with Wild Birds Unlimited of Royal Oak, Nature Education
staff were able to procure new bird feeding stations for the Madison Heights Active Adult
Center, the Madison Heights Library, and the Madison Heights Department of Public
Service. The Nature Education staff manages the Active Adult Center and Library feeders
through weekly filling and cleaning.
Red Oaks Nature Center has installed a tablet adjacent to their bird feeding station, which
runs the Merlin Bird ID application, allowing patrons to scroll through, identify their birds,
and listen to their calls. In the spring, Nature Education staff maintain a current eBird list
and encourage patrons to submit their findings, in addition to iNaturalist.
3 . 6 . Promote scientific research and monitoring
3 . 6 . 2 - Participate in at least one official community science bird-monitoring program
(e.g. Christmas Bird Count, Great Backyard Bird Count, Swift Night Out, Audubon Climate
Watch, bird, Globe at Night, Nestwatch, FeederWatch, Hummingbirds at Home, the Big Sit,
Marsh Monitoring, Global Bird Rescue or other actively coordinated community science
projects).
The Oakland County Parks Nest Box Program began in 1988 with a small group of
volunteers monitoring a few boxes. In 2004, the Nest Box Program started working in
coordination with Oakland County Parks Staff. The Oakland County Parks Nest Box
Program became one of the inaugural chapters of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology Nest
Watch Program in 2013. Oakland County Parks currently has 177 active nest boxes across 7
Oakland County Parks monitored by 34 volunteers.
2024 Nest Watch Stats: 175 nest boxes at 7 OC Parks, 41 program participants, 765 hours
monitoring, 1,364 visits to nest boxes, 38.5 hours spent on Spring 2024 maintenance
Oakland County Parks Nature Education staff participate in the annual Christmas Bird
Count area assigned to the Oakland Bird Alliance, which includes Orion Oaks County Park.
Refer to Section 3.3.1 for additional information about past Christmas Bird Counts.
3 . 7 . Mobilize support / funding for community bird conservation
3 . 7 . 1 [KS2]- MANDATORY - Attach a copy of an officially enacted resolution supporting your
community’s designation as a Bird City with the initial application. With each renewal
thereafter, pass a proclamation indicating continued municipal support for Bird City efforts.
4 . Sustainability
4 . 1 . Educate residents about climate impacts and renewable energy
4 . 1 . 1 - Describe your community’s efforts to educate residents about climate change,
effects on birds / biodiversity, and solutions.
Oakland County Parks Natural Resources Department has created a Climate Change
Adaptation Plan through the NIACS (National Institute of Applied Climate Science). The
project is titled Waterford Oaks Climate Resilient Planting Plan. The goal of the program is
to create a tree planting plan for Waterford Oaks County Parks to replace non-native
ornamentals, increase native trees, and improve habitat connectivity in the built
infrastructure areas of the Park. The plan is available on the NIACS’s Adaptation Workbook
website.
Oakland County Parks Red Oaks Nature Center has hosted the sustainable art projects
from the students at Hiller Elementary in Madison Heights. The art projects are showcased
in the nature center for a couple of months after Earth Day. In 2025, Red Oaks staff also
spoke to their classes about Earth Day, climate change, and how that impacts wildlife.
4 . 2 . Reduce energy use and carbon emissions
4 . 2 . 1 - Perform an energy audit for municipal building(s) and progress towards
implementing efficiency strategies.
Oakland County produced a Sustainability Plan for the county departments in 2023:
https://www.oakgov.com/home/showpublisheddocument/18976/638315826087700000
Oakland County has also completed a Greenhouse Gas Inventory made public in 2022:
https://www.oakgov.com/home/showpublisheddocument/23982/638594051194230000
The last county-wide energy audit was in 2010 and led to a 15% reduction in energy usage
campus-wide. In the new sustainability plan, it is recommended that energy audits happen
every 5 years.
4 . 2 . 3 - Demonstrate that your community participates in a community solar program or
that a municipal building receives a significant percentage of its electricity from renewable
energy.
Oakland County Parks and Recreation will begin buying 100% of its energy from renewable
sources for electric choice meter Parks starting in 2026 – Springfield Oaks, Waterford Oaks,
Lyon Oaks, and Independence Oaks.
4 . 3 . Promote sustainable infrastructure and practices
4 . 3 . 1 - Adopt nature-based solutions (e.g. keeping water at surface, green roofs, tree
cover, wetlands) adding natural features and / or processes into the built environment to
promote adaptation, resilience, and increase biodiversity.
Oakland County Parks has implemented and managed bioswales, native tree plantings,
and other green-stormwater infrastructure projects throughout the parks. Currently,
Oakland County Parks has implemented and manages 9 acres of bioswales and other
green-stormwater infrastructure projects. In addition, Oakland County Parks plans to
implement additional green stormwater infrastructure at a number of its parks in the
coming years.
Oakland County Parks Natural Resources has created the Waterford Oaks Climate
Resiliency Plan through NIACS. The goal of the program is to create a tree planting plan for
Waterford Oaks County Parks to replace non-native ornamentals, increase native trees,
and improve habitat connectivity in the built infrastructure areas of the Park. The plan is
available on the NIACS’s Adaptation Workbook website.
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 9
Department: Administration
From: Chris Ward, Director
Subject: 2025 Strategic Partnership Grant – Charter Township of Royal Oak
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
The Charter Township of Royal Oak approached Oakland County Parks and Recreation (OCPR)
regarding potential grant funding assistance for the installation of a restroom building at Civic
Center Park. The proposed funding would support the final phase of the park’s comprehensive
renovation.
Civic Center Park is a 3.55-acre community park and one of only three parks serving the 0.7-
square-mile Charter Township of Royal Oak. The park currently consists primarily of mowed open
space with amenities that are deteriorated and not ADA-compliant. Creating a safe and accessible
outdoor space where residents can engage in physical activity, connect with nature, and gather
as a community aligns directly with OCPR’s mission to promote health, wellness, and equitable
access to recreation.
As part of the Township’s 2025 Recreation Plan, residents identified restrooms as one of the most
important accessibility needs and the top feature desired in the park system. The proposed
restroom facility directly addresses this community-identified priority and fulfills a longstanding
gap in park infrastructure.
Project Funding and Alignment
The Township is requesting a $250,000 Strategic Partnership Grant from OCPR to match a
$979,000 Michigan Spark Grant awarded by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources
(MDNR) through funding provided by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
The Spark Grant will support a comprehensive park renovation scheduled for completion in 2026,
including:
•Replacement of the existing playground and other aging amenities
•Construction of a new pavilion
•Installation of an accessible walking path
•Utility connections for the proposed restroom building
This collaboration advances OCPR’s core values of Health and Wellness and Access and Equity,
expanding the County’s presence in an area with limited access to quality parkland.
Project Significance
The Civic Center Park renovation represents a strategic investment in equitable access to
recreation and public health in one of Oakland County’s most densely populated and underserved
communities. Royal Oak Charter Township has limited parkland and resources, and this project
will create the Township’s first modern, fully accessible park facility. The addition of restrooms,
RETURN TO AGENDA
alongside the new playground, pavilion, and accessible trail, will transform Civic Center Park into
a welcoming community hub for all ages and abilities.
This partnership exemplifies the goals of Mission 26, particularly the pillars of Access & Equity
and Activation & Health, by addressing historic gaps in park infrastructure and ensuring that every
resident—regardless of geography or background—has access to safe, high-quality outdoor
spaces. Through this collaboration, Oakland County Parks strengthens its regional network of
inclusive recreation facilities while reinforcing its role as a partner to local communities in
advancing public value.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Park Development Grant Agreement – Charter Township of Royal Oak (Restrooms at
Civic Center Park)
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Move to authorize and recommend to the Board of Commissioners approval of the Park
Development Grant Agreement with the Charter Township of Royal Oak for the Restrooms at
Civic Center Park project, with a Strategic Partnership Grant in the amount of $250,000.
Page 1 of 5
COUNTY OF OAKLAND—PARK DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT
ROYAL OAK TOWNSHIP – CIVIC CENTER PARK RESTROOM PROJECT
This Agreement is between the County of Oakland, by and through, its statutory agent, the
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission (“OCPRC”) and the Charter Township of
Royal Oak, 21131 Gardenlane, Ferndale, MI 48220 (“Grantee”).
The purpose of this Agreement is to provide funding to Grantee in exchange for the work to be
performed by Grantee for the below named project. The Parties agree to the terms and
conditions set forth in this Agreement.
Project Title (“Project”): Civic Center Park Restroom Project
Project Number: 25-03
Grant Amount (“Grant Amount”): Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($250,000)
Grantee Match Amount (“Match Amount”): Nine Hundred Seventy-Nine Thousand Dollars
($979,000)
Total Project Amount: One Million Two Hundred Twenty-Nine Thousand Dollars ($1,229,000)
Start Date: Effective Date—the date the last Party to this Agreement signs the Agreement
End Date: Three years after the date the last Party to this Agreement signs the Agreement
By signing this Agreement, the below individuals certify they are authorized to sign this
Agreement on behalf of their organizations and the Parties will fulfill the terms of this
Agreement, including any attached Exhibits.
Grantee:
Name: Donna Squalls, Township Supervisor Date
Charter Township of Royal Oak
County of Oakland:
Name: David T. Woodward, Chairperson Date
Oakland County Board of Commissioners
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission:
Name: Ebony Bagley, Chairperson Date
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission
Page 2 of 5
1. Agreement Execution. Grantee is required to sign the Agreement and return it to the
contact person listed in Section 2 within sixty (60) calendar days of the date the Agreement
is issued to Grantee. If not, the OCPRC Chairperson may cancel this Agreement and the
monies allocated under this Agreement may be issued to another entity, in the County’s
sole discretion. This Agreement is not effective until both Parties sign the Agreement. The
“Effective Date” shall be the date the last Party signs the Agreement.
2. Contact Information. This Agreement shall be administered on behalf of the County by the
OCPRC Grants Unit. All notices, reports, documents, requests, actions, or other
communications required between the OCPRC and Grantee shall be in writing and
submitted to the contacts identified below. By written notice, the Parties may designate a
different contact with correlating information.
2.1. Grantee Contact
2.1.1. Organization: Charter Township of Royal Oak
2.1.2. Name/Title: Donna Squalls, Township Supervisor
2.1.3. Address: 21131 Gardenlane, Ferndale, MI 48220
2.1.4. Telephone Number: 248-542-7540
2.1.5. E-Mail Address: supervisor@royaloaktwp.com
2.2. OCPRC Contact
2.2.1. Name/Title: Haley Hansen, Gifts and Grants Manager, Oakland County Parks
2.2.2. Address: 2800 Watkins Lake Road, Waterford, MI 48328
2.2.3. Telephone Number: 248-766-9996
2.2.4. E-Mail Address: hansenhm@oakgov.com
3. Project/Project Period.
3.1. Grantee shall complete the Project as set forth and described in Exhibit A within the
Project Period. Exhibit A is incorporated into this Agreement.
3.2. As defined in this Agreement, “Project Period” means the period of time beginning on
the Effective Date and ending on the End Date listed on page 1 of this Agreement.
3.3. Grantee shall complete the Project within the Project Period. Requests to extend the
Project Period must be made in writing a minimum of thirty (30) calendar days before
the Project Period ends. The OCPRC Grants Unit may extend the Project Period, in its
sole discretion, and the extension must be codified in an amendment to this
Agreement, which amendment shall be signed by the OCPRC Chairperson.
4. Grantee Reporting Requirements:
4.1. Grantee shall complete and submit bi-annual progress reports, including a narrative
report and summary of Project expenditures, in accordance with instructions provided
by OCPRC.
4.2. Within sixty (60) days of Project completion, Grantee shall submit final reporting
documentation, including a final reimbursement request and narrative report, and
copies of written materials and/or photographs of grant recognition signs in
accordance with the instructions provided by OCPRC.
5. Payments/Advances/Project Closeout. The OCPRC shall make payments of the Grant
Amount to Grantee as follows:
Page 3 of 6
5.1. OCPRC shall pay the Grantee fifty percent (50%) of the Grant Amount listed on page
1 of this Agreement within thirty (30) calendar days of the Effective Date. The
remaining fifty percent (50%) of the Grant Amount shall be paid by the County
within thirty (30) calendar days of the date the Project is complete in accordance
with Section 4. Any cost overruns incurred to complete the Project shall be the sole
responsibility of the Grantee. To be eligible for payment, Grantee must submit a
complete payment request to OCPRC on form(s) provided by OCPRC and have
satisfied all progress reporting requirements due prior to the date of the payment
request
5.2. Grantee shall submit documentation of all costs incurred, including the value of match
and donations made to the Project.
5.3. OCPRC reserves the right to request additional information necessary to
substantiate payments.
5.4. Grantee shall be a registered vendor with the County to receive payments. Registration
can be accomplished by completing a vendor registration through the County Vendor
Registration link on the County Web site. All grant funds will be paid by ACH or Check.
5.5. OCPRC shall not pay any portion of the Grant Amount to a Grantee contractor or
subcontractors. Grant Amounts shall only be paid to Grantee.
5.6. Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, OCPRC shall hold back ten
percent (10%) of the Grant Amount until Project Closeout set forth in this Section. Final
payment of the remaining ten percent (10%) of the Grant Amount will be released
upon OCPRC’s approval of Grantee’s Final Report and satisfactory Project completion
as determined by OCPRC, in its sole discretion.
5.7. A determination of Project completion, which may include a site inspection and an
audit, shall be made by OCPRC after Grantee has met any match obligations,
satisfactorily completed the activities, and provided products and deliverables
described in Exhibit A.
5.8. Grantee shall immediately refund to OCPRC any payments in excess of the costs
allowed by this Agreement.
5.9. Upon issuance of final payment from the OCPRC, Grantee releases the County, OCPRC,
and its employee and officers of all claims against the County/OCPRC arising under this
Agreement. Unless otherwise provided in this Agreement or by State law, final
payment under this Agreement shall not constitute a waiver of the County’s claims
against Grantee.
6. Grantee Assurances/Responsibilities.
6.1. Grantee shall comply with all applicable local, State, and federal laws, rules, ordinances,
and regulations in the performance of this Agreement.
6.2. Grantee shall obtain all necessary permits and licenses for construction and
maintenance of the Project. Grantee shall solely determine what permits or licenses
are required for the Project, secure the needed permits or licenses, and remain in
compliance with such permits or licenses. Grantee shall retain a copy of all permits or
licenses and make them available to the County upon request.
6.3. Grantee shall have control of the Project area through fee simple title, lease, or other
recorded interest, or have written permission from the owner of the Project area to
complete Project activities.
6.4. Grantee shall abide by all State and federal threatened and endangered species
regulations when completing Project activities.
Page 4 of 6
6.5. Grantee shall not discriminate against an employee or an applicant for employment in
hiring, any terms and conditions of employment or matters related to employment
regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression,
national origin, age, genetic information, height, weight, disability, veteran status,
familial status, marital status or any other reason, that is unrelated to the person's
ability to perform the duties of a particular job or position, in accordance with
applicable federal and state laws. Grantee further agrees that any subcontract shall
contain non-discrimination provisions, which are not less stringent than this provision
and binding upon any and all subcontractors. A breach of this covenant shall be
regarded as a material breach of this Agreement.
6.6. Grantee shall require that no individual be denied access to the Project or Project
activities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or
expression, national origin, age, genetic information, height, weight, disability, veteran
status, familial status, or marital status.
6.7. Grantee is solely responsible for all activities performed under this Agreement and for
the construction and maintenance of the Project. Grantee shall be the sole point of
contact regarding contractual matters for the Project, including payment of any and all
charges resulting from the Project.
6.8. Grantee shall require all contractors and subcontractors constructing or performing the
Project to comply with this Agreement.
6.9. Grantee shall ensure all contractors and subcontractors constructing and performing
the Project are qualified to perform such work.
6.10. Grantee shall be solely responsible for the installation, operation, repair, and
maintenance of the Project.
6.11. All records related to the Project must be maintained for a minimum of seven (7)
years after the final payment has been issued to Grantee by the County.
7. Liability.
7.1. The County/OCPRC is not liable or required to install, operate, repair, maintain, or
contribute to the installation, operation, repair, or maintenance of the Project and any
associated Project activities.
7.2. Grantee shall defend any Claim brought against either Party that involves the Project or
associated Project activities or that involves title, ownership, or other specific rights of
real property controlled by Grantee and relates to the Project.
7.3. Grantee is responsible for all Claims arising under or in any manner related to the
Agreement, the activities authorized by the Agreement, or the use and occupancy of
the Project.
7.4. As used in this Agreement, “Claims” mean any alleged losses, claims, complaints,
demands for relief or damages, lawsuits, causes of action, proceedings, judgments,
deficiencies, liabilities, penalties, litigation, costs, and expenses, including, but not
limited to, reimbursement for reasonable attorney fees, witness fees, court costs,
investigation expenses, litigation expenses, amounts paid in settlement, and/or other
amounts or liabilities of any kind which are incurred by or asserted against a Party, or
for which a Party may become legally and/or contractually obligated to pay or defend
against, whether direct, indirect or consequential, whether based upon any alleged
violation of the federal or the state constitution, any federal or state statute, rule,
regulation, or any alleged violation of federal or state common law, whether
commenced or threatened.
Page 5 of 6
7.5. Performance of this Agreement is a governmental function. This Agreement does not,
and is not intended to, impair, divest, delegate, or contravene any constitutional,
statutory, and/or other legal right, privilege, power, obligation, duty, or immunity of
the Parties. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as a waiver of governmental
immunity.
8. Insurance. The Grantee shall acquire and maintain insurance or a program of self-
insurance, which Grantee deems necessary, to protect it from liability related to
construction and/or operation of the Project. The County/OCPRC shall not obtain any
insurance or provide any self-insurance for construction and/or operation of the Project.
9. Audit and Access to Records. OCPRC reserves the right to conduct programmatic and
financial audits of the Project and may withhold payment until the audit is satisfactorily
completed. Grantee shall maintain all pertinent records and evidence pertaining to this
Agreement, including grant and any required matching funds, in accordance with generally
accepted accounting principles and other procedures specified by OCPRC. OCPRC or any
of its duly authorized representatives must have access, upon reasonable notice, to such
books, records, documents, and other evidence for the purpose of inspection, audit, and
copying. Grantee shall provide proper facilities for such access and inspection. All records
must be maintained for a minimum of seven (7) years after the final payment has been
issued to Grantee by OCPRC.
10. Assignability. Grantee shall not assign or transfer any interest in this Agreement without
prior written authorization of OCPRC.
11. Changes. Any changes to this Agreement requested by Grantee shall be made in writing
and sent to the contact listed in Section 2 of this Agreement. OCPRC may approve or
deny such change, in its sole discretion. Any changes related to the grant amount, or any
other financial component of this Agreement, will require an amendment to be executed
in the same manner as this Agreement. Any changes not related to the grant amount,
including modifications to project scope or deadline extensions, can be made by
amendment at the discretion of and signed by the OCPRC Chairperson.
12. Termination.
12.1. Failure by Grantee to comply with any provision of this Agreement shall be a
material breach of this Agreement. Upon breach of the Agreement by Grantee,
OCPRC may, in addition to any other remedy provided by law:
12.1.1. Terminate this Agreement;
12.1.2. Withhold and/or cancel future payments to Grantee on any or all current grant
projects until the violation is resolved to the satisfaction of OCPRC;
12.1.3. Withhold action on all pending and future grant applications submitted by
Grantee; or
12.1.4. Require specific performance of the Agreement.
12.2. Upon the date of termination, all outstanding reports and documents are due to
OCPRC and after the termination date OCPRC will no longer be liable to pay or reimburse
Grantee any outstanding Grant Amounts.
13. Governing Laws/Consent to Jurisdiction and Venue. This Agreement shall be governed,
interpreted, and enforced by the laws of the State of Michigan, excluding Michigan’s conflict of
law principles. Except as otherwise required by law or court rule, any action, complaint, lawsuit,
or other legal or equitable proceeding brought to enforce, interpret, or decide any Claim, as
defined herein, arising under or related to this Agreement shall be brought in the Sixth Judicial
Circuit Court of the State of Michigan, the 50th District of the State of Michigan, or the United
Page 6 of 6
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.
14. Entire Contract. This Agreement represents the entire agreement and understanding
between the Parties. This Agreement supersedes all other prior oral or written
understandings, communications, agreements, or contracts between the Parties regarding
the subject matter of this Agreement. The language of this Contract shall be construed as a
whole according to its fair meaning and not construed strictly for or against any Party.
Grant Project Description Page 1 of 7
Grantee Information
Item Grantee Information
Project Title: Civic Center Park Restroom Project
Oakland County City, Village or
Township Name:
Charter Township of Royal Oak
Name of Primary Grant Contact: Donna Squalls, Township Supervisor
Address: 21131 Gardenlane, Ferndale, MI 48220
Primary Contact Phone: 248-542-7540
Primary Contact Email Address: supervisor@royaloaktwp.com
Please list any project partners: Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Council of Michigan Foundations
Financial Information
Project Funding
Requested Grant Amount: $250,000
Match Source Type of match (cash, in-kind, etc.) Match Amount
Resources Spark Grant / American
Total Project Funding (Requested grant amount + total match amount): $1,229,000
Project Budget
Scope Item Quantity Total Amount
Procurement and installation of
prefabricated restroom building 1 $250,000
Total Project Budget: $250,000
Project Schedule
Anticipated Start Date: 12/1/2025
Anticipated Completion Date: 12/31/2027
Site Control
Type of Site Control
Select the type of site control the applicant has over the site where the project is to be completed:
☒ Fee Simple
☐ Less than fee simple (explain in comments field below)
Grant Project Description Page 2 of 7
☐ Lease
☐ License
☐ Easement
☐ Other (explain in comments field below)
Site Access
Entrance Fees
Indicate whether the park or facility has any required entrance fees.
☒ No fees for park or facility use
☐ Non-resident annual or daily fee
☐ Annual or daily fee for residents and non-residents
☐ Other (explain in comments field below)
Ways to Access
Select the ways in which people can access the site.
☐ Automobile only
☒ Automobile
☒ Bicycle on-street
☐ Dedicated bike lane
☒ Sidewalk
☒ Nearby bus stop (within ¼ mile)
Project Description
Need Statement
What is the reason for doing this project? Answer may incorporate documented community and
recreational needs, public engagement, con dition of current recreation assets, environmental issues or
accessibility and inclusion needs. Is the project in the communities 5 -Year Parks and Recreation Master
Plan or other planning document?
Civic Center Park is a 3.55-acre park in the Charter Township of Royal Oak. It is one of three parks in the 0.7-
square mile township. Civic Center Park consists mostly of mowed open space, with several amenities that are
severely deteriorated and non-ADA-compliant. This grant will provide the only permanent restroom building in
Royal Oak Township and will allow residents to gather and recreate outdoors without concerns about finding a
restroom. Having a safe space that provides residents with opportunities for physical activity, the ability to
explore nature, and an environment that encourages gathering with others outdoors will help residents form
connections with others. As part of the Township’s 2025 Recreation Plan, residents identified restrooms as one
of the most important accessibility concerns. Adding restrooms was also the top feature that residents would
like to see added to the Township’s park system.
Project Scope
What are the actions that will implement the proje ct? Is the project designed to meet or exceed ADA
guidelines or to incorporate Universal Design principles?
Grant Project Description Page 3 of 7
The scope includes installing a prefabricated restroom building with two single-stall restrooms, including all
related site improvements and amenities. This work includes all site preparation, building foundation, utility
connections, site grading and paving, and pathway connecting the restroom building to the park walking loop.
This restroom building addition will meet ADA guidelines.
Project Outcomes
What are the anticipated outcomes and who will benefit from the project? Will the project result in
greater access to recreation for all residents and visitors? Are any environmental benefits expected?
How will the project make the community more sustainab le and resilient?
The desired outcome to receiving this funding would be to reenergize residents through outdoor physical
activities. Adding a restroom building will help to counter some of the negative effects that still linger from the
COVID-19 pandemic by providing a space to gather and recreate outdoors. With a new ADA-accessible restroom,
Civic Center Park will allow for recreational activation by users of all ages and abilities.
Maintenance
Describe how the project will be managed and maintained long -term, including any equipment or
staffing needs and how they will be addressed.
The Royal Oak Township Parks and Recreation Board will provide routine maintenance of the park funded by the
property tax revenues as well as Royal Oak Township Board of Trustees annual contribution of $33,000 towards
park maintenance. Oakland County Parks is available for consultation to Royal Oak Township Department of
Public Works as needed for consultation on park maintenance standards and processes.
Long-Term Vision
Describe how the project fits into a longer -term vision for the community (and beyond if applicable).
Installing restrooms has been desired by residents for several years, as identified through multiple rounds of
community engagement with OCP and consultant agencies. This project would also be in line with the broader
improvements that are scheduled at Civic Center Park for 2026, funded by a $979,000 grant provided by the
Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Other improvements include playground replacements, pavilion
installations, and an accessible walking path.
Attachments
Required
☒ Project location map
☒ Site plan or project map
Optional
☐ Public engagement reports
☐ Letters of support
☐ Design drawings and specifications
☐ Photographs with captions indicating relevant content
☐ Manufacturer information
Grant Project Description Page 4 of 7
Acknowledgement
This is a partial reimbursement program. The community will receive fifty percent (50%) of the grant
amount when the grant agreement is executed. The community can submit quarterly requests for
additional funds throughout the grant period, with Oakland County holding back ten percent (10%) of
the grant amount until the project is closed out as defined in the grant agreement. Final payment of the
remaining grant funds including the ten percent (10%) held back will be released upon the County’s
approval of the grantee’s final report and satisfactory project completion as defined by the County.
☐ Please check here to acknowledge that this is a reimbursement grant and that a final report will be
required to release the final ten percent (10%) of grant funds.
Submission
Send completed forms and attachments to the email below. If your file size is too large to email, reach
out for file -sharing options . Please call with any questions.
Contact Information:
Haley Hansen
Gifts and Grants Manager
(248) 766-9996
hansenhm@oakgov.com
Grant Project Description Page 5 of 7
Project Location Map
Excerpt from DLZ, Civic Center Park 100% Bid Set, August 15, 2025, Cover Sheet
Grant Project Description Page 6 of 7
Project Site Plan
Excerpt from DLZ, Civic Center Park 100% Bid Set, August 15, 2025, Page C.2.0 – Site Layout
location
Grant Project Description Page 7 of 7
Excerpt from DLZ, Civic Center Park 100% Bid Set, August 15, 2025, Page C.4.1 – Site Utility Plan
future restroom
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 10
Department: Administration
From: Chris Ward, Director
Subject: Turtle Woods Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Grant Award Acceptance
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
Oakland County Parks (OCP) has been awarded an FY2024 Michigan Natural Resources Trust
Fund (MNRTF) grant from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) in the amount
of $2,175,000.
The funds will be used to acquire 71.17 acres in the City of Troy, consisting of:
•69.5 acres of undeveloped natural land commonly known as “Turtle Woods”, and
•an adjacent 1.67-acre residential parcel to be used for public access and parking.
This acquisition will permanently protect a high-quality natural area that provides wildlife habitat,
water quality benefits, and opportunities for passive recreation and environmental education.
Project Funding and Match
Oakland County is committing $425,000 in cash match toward the acquisition.
In addition, the Troy School District is discounting the sale price of the property by 50%, creating
an in-kind match value of $1,875,000 through its purchase agreement with Six Rivers Land
Conservancy, which will be assigned to Oakland County at closing.
The grant period extends from October 20, 2025, through October 31, 2027.
Project Significance
The Turtle Woods acquisition represents a major step in Oakland County Parks’ ongoing effort to
protect remaining high-quality natural areas in southern Oakland County. Located within the
Rouge River watershed and adjacent to Troy School District property, the site features mature
forests, wetlands, and ecological corridors that are critical for biodiversity and stormwater
management.
This project strengthens collaboration among Oakland County Parks, the City of Troy, the Troy
School District, and Six Rivers Land Conservancy, ensuring permanent public access and long-
term stewardship of the land. The acquisition directly supports the Mission 26 goal of expanding
nature-based parks, environmental education, and conservation opportunities in urban and
suburban areas.
ATTACHMENTS
1.Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Land Acquisition Project Agreement (TF24-0047)
RETURN TO AGENDA
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Move to approve the FY2024 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Project Agreement (TF24-
0047) for the Turtle Woods Acquisition in the amount of $2,175,000 for the purchase of 71.17
acres in Troy, and forwarding of the agreement to the Oakland County Board of Commissioners
for approval.
MICHIGAN NATURAL RESOURCES TRUST FUND
LAND ACQUISITION PROJECT AGREEMENT
This information is required by authority of Part 5 of Act 451, P.A. 1994 as amended, to receive funds.
Michigan Department of Natural Resources - Grants Management
Project #: Project Title:
Amount of grant:
Amount of match:
Start Date:Date of Execution by DEPARTMENT
PROJECT TOTAL:
End Date:
GRANTEE
SIGNED
By [Print Name]:
Title:
Organization:
Unique Entity Identifier
MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
SIGNED:
By
Grants Section Manager
Required - Please choose one
Acquisition Closing Option Desired:
This project will be completed utilizing a
grant reimbursement process. Grantee
will purchase land and seek
reimbursement after closing.
This project will be completed utilizing an
escrow closing process.
Date of Execution by DEPARTMENT
Turtle Woods Nature Preserve Acquisition TF24-0047
10/31/2027
This Agreement is between Oakland County in the county of Oakland County hereinafter referred to as the "GRANTEE," and the
MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, an agency of the State of Michigan, hereinafter referred to as the
“DEPARTMENT.” The DEPARTMENT has authority to issue grants to local units of government or public authorities for the
acquisition of land for resource protection and public outdoor recreation under Part 19 of the Natural Resources and Environmental
Protection Act, Act 451 of 1994, as amended, and under Article IX, Section 35 of the Michigan Constitution. The GRANTEE has been
approved by the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) Board of Trustees (BOARD) to receive a grant. In Public Act 21 of
2025, the Legislature appropriated funds from the MNRTF to the DEPARTMENT for a grant-in-aid to the GRANTEE.
The purpose of this Agreement is to provide funding to acquire land or rights in land for the project named below . This Agreement is
subject to the terms and conditions specified herein.
As a precondition to the effectiveness of this Agreement, the GRANTEE is required to sign and return it to the DEPARTMENT with
the necessary attachments by 12/19/2025, or the Agreement may be cancelled by the DEPARTMENT. This Agreement is not
effective until the GRANTEE has signed it, returned it, and the DEPARTMENT has signed it. The Agreement is considered
executed when signed by the DEPARTMENT.
The individuals signing below certify by their signatures that they are authorized to sign this Agreement on behalf of their agencies ,
and that the parties will fulfill the terms of this Agreement, including any attached appendices, as set forth herein.
$2,175,000.00
$2,300,000.00
$4,475,000.00
CV0048080 172
HZ4EUKDD7AB4
Page 1 of 9 PR1921 (Rev. 04142025)
David T. Woodward
Chair
Oakland County Board of Commissioners
Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund
Land Acquisition Project Agreement
GRANTEE CONTACT
Name/Title
Organization
Address
Telephone Number
DEPARTMENT CONTACT
Address
E-mail Address E-mail Address
Telephone Number
Address
Address
Organization
Name/Title
MNRTF Grant Program Manager
Grants Management/DNR Finance & Operations
525 W. Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48933
P.O. Box 30425, Lansing, MI 48909
517-284-7268
DNR-Grants@michigan.gov
1.This Agreement shall be administered on behalf of the DEPARTMENT by the Grants Management Section within the
Finance and Operations Division. All notices, reports, documents, requests, actions or other communications required
between the DEPARTMENT and the GRANTEE shall be submitted through the department’s online grant management
system, MiGrants, which is accessed through www.michigan.gov/dnr-grants , unless otherwise instructed by the
DEPARTMENT. Primary points of contact pertaining to this agreement shall be:
2.The legal description of the project area, boundary map of the project area, and the land acquisition grant application bearing
the number TF24-0047 uploaded to MiGrants are by this reference made part of this Agreement. The Agreement together
with the referenced documents in MiGrants constitute the entire Agreement between the parties and may be modified only in
writing and executed in the same manner as the Agreement is executed.
3.The time period allowed for project completion is from 10/20/2025 through 10/31/2027, hereinafter referred to as the “project
period.” Requests by the GRANTEE to extend the project period shall be submitted in MiGrants before the expiration of the
project period. Extensions to the project period are at the discretion of the DEPARTMENT and may only be extended by an
amendment to this Agreement.
4.The grant herein provided is for the acquisition by the GRANTEE of 71.17 acres of land in Fee Simple title free of all liens
and encumbrances, situated and being in the city/village/township of , in the County of , STATE OF MICHIGAN as
described in the uploaded legal description and shown on the uploaded boundary map. As used in this Agreement, the
words “project area” shall mean the lands acquired under this Agreement as described in this Section .
5.The project area shall be used for habitat conservation and outdoor recreation, as further described in the GRANTEE’S
proposal to the DEPARTMENT and approved by the MNRTF Board. Significant changes in the use of the project area as
described in this Section require the prior written authorization of the DEPARTMENT.
6.In order to preserve the financial resources of the State of Michigan and to prevent unjust enrichment of a third party interim
owner, if the landowner listed in the project application grants any rights in the real property to an individual or agency other
than the GRANTEE, the DEPARTMENT may inspect the terms of the conveyance as a condition to approving the
GRANTEE to close.
7.The DEPARTMENT will:
a. grant to the GRANTEE a sum of money equal to Forty-Nine percent (49%) as reimbursement or as payment into
an escrow account for escrow closing, of the total eligible cost of acquisition of fee simple title free of all liens and
Page 2 of 9 PR1921 (Rev. 04142025)
Haley Hansen, Gifts & Grants Manager
Oakland County Parks
2800 Watkins Lake Road
Waterford, MI 48328
248-766-9996
hansenhm@oakgov.com
Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund
Land Acquisition Project Agreement
encumbrances to the lands in the project area, not to exceed the sum of Two Million One Hundred and
Seventy-Five Thousand dollars ($2,175,000.00). Acquisition of easements or other rights in land less than fee
simple will be considered on a case by case basis at the discretion of the DEPARMENT .
b.include the following in the total cost of acquisition eligible for grant funding (based on grant percentage) as provided
for in Section 7(a):
i.Purchase price of the land, up to the market value, in the project area acquired by the GRANTEE during the
project period as provided for in section 9(f) of this Agreement;
ii.Reasonable and appropriate costs incurred and paid by the GRANTEE during the project period for recording
fees, title insurance, transfer tax, prorated property tax, closing fees and environmental assessments; and
iii.Costs incurred and paid by the GRANTEE for appraisal(s) as provided for in Section 9(f) and approved by the
DEPARTMENT.
c.grant funds to the GRANTEE for eligible costs and expenses incurred, as follows:
i.Payments will be made on a reimbursement basis or to an escrow account for escrow closing for
Forty-Nine percent (49%) of the eligible expenses incurred by the GRANTEE up to 90% of the maximum
amount allowable under the grant.
ii.Reimbursement (or payment to an escrow account for escrow closing) will be made only upon
DEPARTMENT review and approval of a complete reimbursement (or escrow closing) request submitted by
the GRANTEE on forms provided by the DEPARTMENT that meet all documentation requirements set forth
by the DEPARTMENT. A complete reimbursement or escrow closing request must document the total cost
of the acquisition and the GRANTEE’s compliance with Section 8 of this Agreement and DEPARTMENT
acquisition project procedures.
iii.The DEPARTMENT shall conduct an audit of the project’s financial records upon approval of the final
reimbursement request or completion of the escrow closing. The DEPARTMENT may issue an audit report
with no deductions or may find some costs ineligible for final audit reimbursement.
iv.The final 10% of the grant amount will be released upon completion of a satisfactory audit by the
DEPARTMENT and documentation that the GRANTEE has erected proper signage acknowledging MNRTF
assistance in compliance with Section 9(q) of this Agreement.
8.Closing Options:
a.FOR REIMBURSEMENT PROJECTS:
The GRANTEE shall be eligible for reimbursement only upon GRANTEE’S completion of all of the following:
i.Electing to use the grant reimbursement closing process at time of signing this project agreement (See grey
box prior to signature section).
ii.Acquisition by GRANTEE of fee simple title free of all liens and encumbrances of all land in the project area.
Acquisition of easements or other rights in land less than fee simple will be considered on a case by case
basis at the discretion of the DEPARMENT.
iii.Submission of proof of acquisition of marketable record title to the DEPARTMENT in the form of a policy of
title insurance ensuring the GRANTEE possesses marketable record title in fee simple, free of all liens and
encumbrances to the land in the project area. Said policy is to insure the GRANTEE against loss or
damage at least equal to the purchase price of the subject land.
iv.Proper conveyance to the State of Michigan of all mineral interest to which the State is entitled under this
Agreement as outlined in Section 9(m).
v.Submission of a complete request for reimbursement as set forth in this Agreement .
b.FOR ESCROW CLOSING PROJECTS:
The GRANTEE shall be eligible for grant funding through escrow closing process only upon GRANTEE’S completion
of the following:
i.Electing to use the escrow closing process at time of signing this project agreement (See grey box prior to
signature section).
ii.Securing the services of a reputable title company who will agree to serve as the escrow closing agent.
iii.Execution of escrow closing agreement by GRANTEE, DEPARTMENT, LANDOWNER/SELLER and title
company (agent).
Page 3 of 9 PR1921 (Rev. 04142025)
Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund
Land Acquisition Project Agreement
iv.Providing Department and title company an approximate desired timeframe for closing.
v.Sending DEPARTMENT the draft closing packet (reference Land Acquisition Escrow Closing Package
Checklist) at least 60 days prior to the desired closing date.
vi.Coordinating with title company to schedule the exact closing date after DEPARTMENT’S approval of draft
closing documents and submitting to DEPARTMENT an updated closing statement from the title company
at least 10 days before the desired closing date.
vii.Submitting local matching funds plus 10% of the eligible grant amount to title company for deposit into
escrow account and providing proof of escrowed funds to the DEPARTMENT .
9.The GRANTEE will:
a.immediately make available all funds needed to pay all necessary costs required to complete the project and to
provide Two Million Three Hundred Thousand dollars ($2,300,000.00) as local match to this project. This sum
represents Fifty-One percent (51%) of the total eligible cost of acquisition including incidental costs. Any cost
overruns incurred to complete the project called for by this Agreement shall be the sole responsibility of the
GRANTEE.
b.complete the acquisition in compliance with the acquisition project procedures set forth by the DEPARTMENT .
c.make no written offer or commitment to purchase lands in the project area before execution of this Agreement and
before written DEPARTMENT approval as provided for in Section 9. Failure to comply with this requirement shall, at
the option of the DEPARTMENT, make the cost of the property an ineligible expense under this Agreement and
subject this Agreement to termination by the DEPARTMENT .
d.provide verification that the site is not a facility as defined in Part 201 of the Michigan Natural Resources and
Environmental Protection Act , Act 451 of the Public Acts of 1994, as amended, based on the results of due diligence
and, if needed, an environmental assessment or, if the site has been determined to be a facility, to provide
documentation of due care compliance. The results of the due diligence must be accounted for in the appraisal(s).
e.complete a 40-year title review on the property. The results of the title review must be accounted for in the
appraisal(s).
f.obtain an appraisal of the real estate within the project area in accordance with standards established by the
DEPARTMENT to determine the market value thereof ; two appraisals meeting these standards being required for
properties valued at $750,000 or more. Failure to complete the appraisal(s) in this manner shall make the cost of
said appraisal(s) an ineligible expense under this Agreement .
g.submit the appraisal(s) to the DEPARTMENT for approval no later than 120 days after the date of execution of this
Agreement. No written offer or commitment to purchase land in the project area shall be transmitted by the
GRANTEE until after approval has been given in writing by the DEPARTMENT .
h.perform, or to directly contract for the performance of, all appraisal(s), appraisal review(s), title review, closing and
acquisition of all lands in the project area.
i.eliminate all pre-existing non-recreation uses of the project area within 90 days of the date of acquisition, unless
otherwise approved by the DEPARTMENT in writing .
j.remove existing structures or make ready for an appropriate use in a reasonable time frame after completion of the
acquisition.
k.complete acquisition of the entire project area before 10/31/2027. Failure to acquire the project area by 10/31/2027
shall constitute a breach of this Agreement and subject the GRANTEE to the remedies provided by law and set forth
in Section 23 of this Agreement .
l.provide the DEPARTMENT all documents and information as specified in Sections 8a or 8b of this Agreement. If
utilizing reimbursement process, documents must be submitted within 60 days after the transaction is closed. If
utilizing escrow closing process, documents must be submitted no later than 60 days prior to desired closing.
Failure to submit the required documents and information for review shall constitute a material breach of this
Agreement. Proof of payment to seller (such as cancelled check, wire confirmation, etc.), recorded warranty deed,
recorded mineral royalty deed and recorded Declaration and Notice must be submitted to the DEPARTMENT within
60 days after closing. The final 10% of eligible grant amount will be released upon satisfactory audit review and
approval by the DEPARTMENT.
m. for parcels over 5 acres, execute, acknowledge and deliver to the DEPARTMENT a deed conveying to the State of
Michigan a perpetual nonparticipating royalty equal to 1/6 of the gross proceeds of sale of all oil and/or gas and other
minerals produced and saved in any combination from the mineral rights in, on or under the lands in the project area.
n.retain all rights acquired by the GRANTEE in coal, oil, gas, sand, gravel or any other minerals in, on or under the
lands in the project area in perpetuity.
o.not develop any rights acquired by the GRANTEE in coal, oil, gas, sand, gravel or any other minerals in, on or under
the lands in the project area in a manner that diminishes the usefulness of the project area for its intended purposes.
Page 4 of 9 PR1921 (Rev. 04142025)
Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund
Land Acquisition Project Agreement
In addition, GRANTEE agrees not to develop, or allow others to develop, any such minerals from sites adjacent to
the project area in a manner that diminishes the usefulness of the project area for its intended purposes.
p.maintain satisfactory financial accounts, records, and documents and to make them available to the DEPARTMENT
for auditing upon request. Such accounts, records, and documents shall be retained by the GRANTEE for not less
than three years following submittal of the final audit reimbursement request .
q.erect and maintain a sign or other acknowledgement as approved by the DEPARTMENT on the property which
designates this project as one having been acquired with the assistance of the MNRTF . The size, color, and design
of this sign shall be in accordance with DEPARTMENT specifications .
r.conduct a dedication/ribbon-cutting ceremony as soon as possible after the project is completed and the MNRTF
sign is erected within the project area. At least 30 days prior to the dedication/ribbon-cutting ceremony, the
DEPARTMENT must be notified in writing of the date , time, and location of the dedication/ribbon-cutting ceremony.
GRANTEE shall provide notice of ceremony in the local media. Use of the grant program logo and a brief description
of the program are strongly encouraged in public recreation brochures produced by the GRANTEE. At the discretion
of the DEPARTMENT, the requirement to conduct a dedication/ribbon-cutting ceremony may be waived.
s.provide the DEPARTMENT for approval, a complete tariff schedule containing all charges to be assessed against the
public utilizing the project area and/or any facilities constructed thereon, and to provide the DEPARTMENT for
approval, all amendments thereto before the effective date of such amendments . Any tariff schedule proposed shall
provide solely for sufficient revenues to cover the costs of operating , maintaining and/or developing the premises
and/or any facilities provided thereon. Preferential membership or annual permit systems are prohibited at this site.
Differences in admission and other fees may be instituted on the basis of residence . Nonresident fees shall not
exceed twice that charged residents. If no resident fees are charged, nonresident fees may not exceed the rate
charged residents at other comparable state and local public recreation facilities.
t.separately account for any revenues received from the project area which exceed the demonstrated operating costs
and to reserve such surplus revenues for the future maintenance and/or expansion of the GRANTEE’S park and
outdoor recreation program.
u.furnish the DEPARTMENT, upon request, detailed statements covering the annual operation of project area and/or
facilities, including income and expenses and such other information the DEPARTMENT might reasonably require .
v.adopt such ordinances and/or resolutions as shall be required to effectuate the provisions of this Agreement ; certified
copies of all such ordinances and/or resolutions adopted for such purposes shall be forwarded to the DEPARTMENT
before the effective date thereof .
w.maintain the premises in such condition as to comply with all federal, state, and local laws which may be applicable
and to make any and all payments required to pay any and all taxes, fees, or assessments legally imposed against
the project area.
x.make the project area and any facilities located thereon, as well as the land and water access ways to them, open
to the public within 90 days of the date of acquisition and keep them open to the public at all times on equal and
reasonable terms. No individual shall be denied ingress or egress thereto or the use thereof because of sex, race,
color, religion, national origin, residence, age, height, weight, familial status, marital status or disability.
y.make the project area and any future facilities provided thereon available for public outdoor recreation in perpetuity
and in accordance with uses described in this Agreement and APPENDIX C , to regulate the use thereof and to
provide for the maintenance thereof to the satisfaction of the DEPARTMENT , and to appropriate such moneys and/or
provide such services as shall be necessary to provide such adequate maintenance.
10.The GRANTEE shall acquire fee simple title, free of all liens, encumbrances, or restrictions on future use to the lands in the
project area. The fee simple title acquired shall not be subject to (1) any possibility of reversion or right of entry for condition
broken or any other executory limitation which may result in defeasance of title or (2) to any reservations or prior
conveyance of coal, oil, gas, sand, gravel or any other mineral interests.
11. The GRANTEE shall not allow any encumbrance, lien, security interest, mortgage or any evidence of indebtedness to attach
to or be perfected against the project area.
12. The project area and any facilities located thereon shall not be wholly or partially conveyed, either in fee, easement or
otherwise, or leased for a term of years, or for any other period, nor shall there be any whole or partial transfer of title,
ownership, or right of ownership or control without the written approval and consent of the DEPARTMENT .
13. The assistance provided to the GRANTEE as a result of this Agreement is intended to have a lasting effect on the supply of
outdoor recreation, scenic beauty sites, and recreation facilities beyond the financial contribution alone and permanently
commits the project area to Michigan’s outdoor recreation estate , therefore:
a.The GRANTEE agrees that lands in the project area are being acquired with MNRTF assistance and shall be
Page 5 of 9 PR1921 (Rev. 04142025)
Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund
Land Acquisition Project Agreement
maintained in public outdoor recreation use in perpetuity. No portion of the project area shall be converted to other
than public outdoor recreation use without the approval of the DEPARTMENT . The DEPARTMENT shall approve
such conversion only upon such conditions as it deems necessary to assure the substitution by GRANTEE of other
outdoor recreation properties of equal or greater market value and of reasonably equivalent usefulness and location.
Such substituted land shall become part of the project area and will be subject to all the provisions of this
Agreement.
b.Approval of a conversion shall be at the sole discretion of the DEPARTMENT .
c.Before completion of the project, the GRANTEE and the DEPARTMENT may mutually agree to alter the project area
through an amendment to this Agreement to provide the most satisfactory public outdoor recreation area .
14.Should title to the lands in the project area or any portion thereof be acquired from the GRANTEE by any other entity
through exercise of the power of eminent domain, the GRANTEE agrees that the proceeds awarded to the GRANTEE shall
be used to replace the lands affected with outdoor recreation properties of equal or greater market value, and of reasonably
equivalent usefulness and location. The DEPARTMENT shall approve such replacement only upon such conditions as it
deems necessary to assure the substitution with other outdoor recreation properties of equal or greater market value and of
reasonably equivalent usefulness and location. Such replacement land shall be subject to all the provisions of this
Agreement.
15. The GRANTEE acknowledges that:
a.The GRANTEE has examined the project area and has found the property safe for public use or actions will be taken
by the GRANTEE to make the property safe for public use no later than 90 days after the date of acquisition; and
b.The GRANTEE is solely responsible for development, operation, and maintenance of the project area, and that
responsibility for actions taken to develop, operate, or maintain the project area is solely that of the GRANTEE; and
c.The DEPARTMENT’S involvement in the premises is limited solely to the making of a grant to assist the GRANTEE
in acquiring the premises.
d.The GRANTEE acknowledges that the DEPARTMENT is not responsible for any tax liability assessed on the
property after closing by the GRANTEE. Further, the eligible amount of tax pro-rated at time of closing will be
determined by the DEPARTMENT.
16.Before the DEPARTMENT will give approval to make a written offer to purchase the property included in this project , the
GRANTEE must provide documentation to the DEPARTMENT that indicates either :
a.It is reasonable for the GRANTEE to conclude, based on the advice of an environmental consultant, as appropriate,
that no portion of the project area is a facility as defined in Part 201 of the Michigan Natural Resources and
Environmental Protection Act , Act 451 of the Public Acts of 1994, as amended;
or
b.If any portion of the project area is a facility, documentation that Department of Environment, Great Lakes and
Energy-approved response actions have been or will be taken to make the site safe for its intended use within the
project period, and that implementation and long-term maintenance of response actions will not hinder public outdoor
recreation use and/or the resource protection values of the project area.
17.If the DEPARTMENT determines that, based on contamination, the project area will not be made safe for the planned
recreation use within the project period, or another date established by the DEPARTMENT in writing , or if the
DEPARTMENT determines that the presence of contamination will reduce the overall usefulness of the property for public
recreation and resource protection, the grant may be cancelled by the DEPARTMENT with no reimbursement made to the
GRANTEE.
18. The GRANTEE shall acquire and maintain, or cause to be acquired or maintained, insurance which will protect the
GRANTEE from claims which may arise out of or result from the GRANTEE’S operations under this Agreement , whether
performed by the GRANTEE, a subcontractor or anyone directly or indirectly employed by the GRANTEE, or anyone for
whose acts may hold them liable. Such insurance shall be with companies authorized to do business in the State of
Michigan in such amounts and against such risks as are ordinarily carried by similar entities, including but not limited to
public liability insurance, worker’s compensation insurance or a program of self -insurance complying with the requirements
of Michigan law. The GRANTEE shall provide evidence of such insurance to the DEPARTMENT at its request .
Page 6 of 9 PR1921 (Rev. 04142025)
Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund
Land Acquisition Project Agreement
19. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed to impose any obligation upon the DEPARTMENT to operate , maintain or
provide funding for the operation and/or maintenance of any recreational facilities in the project area.
20. The GRANTEE hereby represents that it will defend any suit brought against either party which involves title, ownership, or
any other rights, whether specific or general, including any appurtenant riparian rights, to and in the project area and any
lands connected with or affected by this project .
21. The GRANTEE is responsible for the use and occupancy of the premises, the project area and the facilities thereon. The
GRANTEE is responsible for the safety of all individuals who are invitees or licensees of the premises. The GRANTEE will
defend all claims resulting from the use and occupancy of the premises, the project area and the facilities thereon. The
DEPARTMENT is not responsible for the use and occupancy of the premises , the project area and the facilities thereon.
22. Failure by the GRANTEE to comply with any of the provisions of this Agreement shall constitute a material breach of this
Agreement.
23. Upon breach of the Agreement by the GRANTEE , the DEPARTMENT, in addition to any other remedy provided by law and
this Agreement, may:
a.Terminate this Agreement ; and/or
b.Withhold and/or cancel future payments to the GRANTEE on any or all current recreation grant projects until the
violation is resolved to the satisfaction of the DEPARTMENT ; and/or
c.Withhold action on all pending and future grant applications submitted by the GRANTEE under the Michigan Natural
Resources Trust Fund , the Land and Water Conservation Fund and the Recreation Passport Grant Program ; and/or
d.Require repayment of grant funds already paid to GRANTEE; and/or
e.Seek specific performance of the Agreement terms .
24.This Agreement may be canceled by the DEPARTMENT , upon 30 days written notice, due to Executive Order, budgetary
reduction, other lack of funding, upon request by the GRANTEE, or upon mutual Agreement by the DEPARTMENT and
GRANTEE. The DEPARTMENT may honor requests for just and equitable compensation to the GRANTEE for all
satisfactory and eligible work completed under this Agreement up until 30 days after written notice, upon which time all
outstanding reports and documents are due to the DEPARTMENT and the DEPARTMENT will no longer be liable to pay the
GRANTEE for any further charges to the grant.
25.The GRANTEE agrees that the benefit to be derived by the State of Michigan from the full compliance by the GRANTEE with
the terms of this Agreement is the preservation , protection and the net increase in the quality of public outdoor recreation
facilities and resources which are available to the people of the State and of the United States and such benefit exceeds to
an immeasurable and unascertainable extent the amount of money furnished by the State of Michigan by way of assistance
under the terms of this Agreement . The GRANTEE agrees that after final audit reimbursement has been made to the
GRANTEE, repayment by the GRANTEE of grant funds received would be inadequate compensation to the State for any
breach of this Agreement. The GRANTEE further agrees therefore, that the appropriate remedy in the event of a breach by
the GRANTEE of this Agreement after final audit reimbursement has been made shall be the specific performance of this
Agreement.
26.The GRANTEE agrees not to discriminate against an employee or applicant for employment with respect to hire, tenure,
terms, conditions, or privileges of employment, or a matter directly or indirectly related to employment, because of religion,
race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, height, weight, marital status, partisan considerations, or a
disability or genetic information that is unrelated to the person's ability to perform the duties of a particular job or position.
The GRANTEE further agrees that any subcontract shall contain non-discrimination provisions which are not less stringent
than this provision and binding upon any and all subcontractors. A breach of this covenant shall be regarded as a material
breach of this Agreement.
27.The GRANTEE may not assign or transfer any interest in this Agreement without prior written authorization of the
DEPARTMENT.
28. The rights of the DEPARTMENT under this Agreement shall continue in perpetuity.
If this Agreement is approved by Resolution , a true copy must be attached to this Agreement . A sample Resolution is on the next
page.
Page 7 of 9 PR1921 (Rev. 04142025)
Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund
Land Acquisition Project Agreement
Page 8 of 9 PR1921 (Rev. 04142025)
Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund
Land Acquisition Project Agreement
SAMPLE RESOLUTION
(Acquisition)
Upon motion made by ______________________________, seconded by
________________________, the following Resolution was adopted:
“RESOLVED, that the _____________________________, Michigan, does hereby accept the
terms of the Agreement as received from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and that the
______________________________ does hereby specifically agree, but not by way of limitation, as
follows:
1.To appropriate all funds necessary to complete the project during the project period and to provide
___________________________($_____________) dollars to match the grant authorized by the
DEPARTMENT.
2.To maintain satisfactory financial accounts , documents, and records to make them available to the
DEPARTMENT for auditing at reasonable times in perpetuity .
3.To regulate the use of the property acquired and reserved under this Agreement to assure the use
thereof by the public on equal and reasonable terms.
4.To comply with any and all terms of said Agreement including all terms not specifically set forth in the
foregoing portions of this Resolution.
The following aye votes were recorded: ________________
The following nay votes were recorded: ________________
STATE OF MICHIGAN )
) ss
COUNTY OF ____________)
I, _______________________________, Clerk of the ___________________________, Michigan, do
hereby certify that the above is a true and correct copy of the Resolution relative to the Agreement with the
Michigan Department of Natural Resources, which Resolution was adopted by the
______________________________ at a meeting held ________________________.
________________________________
Signature
________________________________
Title
_______________________________
Dated
Page 9 of 9 PR1921 (Rev. 04142025)
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 11
Department: Administration
From: Chris Ward, Director
Subject: Rouge River Green Corridor Initiative
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
In 2008, a comprehensive Rouge Green Corridor (RGC) Inventory and Management Plan was
completed by ASTI Environmental. The plan identified the Main and Upper Rouge River corridors
through Birmingham, Beverly Hills, and Southfield as a high-value greenway system providing
significant ecological, recreational, and educational benefits.
In October 2025, OCPR participated in a renewed stakeholder meeting hosted by the City of
Southfield to explore reactivating the Rouge Green Corridor initiative. The meeting reaffirmed
shared goals to:
•Preserve and enhance the Rouge River greenway and floodplain.
•Restore aquatic and terrestrial habitats and improve biodiversity.
•Increase native vegetation and manage invasive species.
•Improve in-stream habitat, water quality, and erosion control.
•Expand trail connectivity and public access for recreation and environmental education.
Current Opportunity
With renewed interest among Southfield and upstream communities—and increasing state and
federal focus on urban watershed restoration—OCPR is well positioned to relaunch and broaden
the Rouge Green Corridor effort.
The Middle Rouge subwatershed, encompassing Farmington and Farmington Hills, shares many
of the same ecological and recreational opportunities as the Upper Rouge corridor. Both cities
maintain park and trail systems along the Rouge and have expressed interest in regional
collaboration on habitat restoration, stormwater management, and trail connectivity.
Expanding the Rouge Green Corridor to include these communities would:
•Strengthen ecological continuity and improve coordination across jurisdictions.
•Support water quality and floodplain restoration in urbanized areas.
•Lay the groundwork for future collaborative projects and funding opportunities.
Seed Funding Recommendation
To reinitiate this effort, staff recommends establishing a Rouge Green Corridor Seed Fund to
support facilitation, technical updates, and partnership development over a 12–18 month planning
period.
RETURN TO AGENDA
Proposed Budget Estimate
Category Description Estimated
Cost
Facilitation &
Coordination engagement, workshops, and intergovernmental $25,000 –
$40,000
Technical / GIS &
Environmental Analysis
Update existing Rouge corridor mapping, land
cover, and habitat data; brief field verification
$30,000 –
$50,000
Framework / Concept
Plan Framework Plan with project map, goals, and $35,000 –
$60,000
Public Engagement &
Communications
Community meetings, materials, graphics, and
online mapping interface
$10,000 –
$20,000
Pilot Project /
Demonstration Reserve
Small visible restoration or signage project to
demonstrate partnership potential
$20,000 –
$30,000
Total Estimated Seed
Investment $120,000 –
$200,000
OCPR staff recommends a target allocation of $150,000 from Unallocated Net Equity for FY26 to
initiate this work. Participating communities will be asked to contribute a nominal amount of
approximately $5,000 each to demonstrate local commitment to the initiative.
The seed investment would also position OCPR and its partners to potentially pursue
supplemental funding from sources such as:
• Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) Nonpoint Source
Program – Section 319
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Great Lakes Restoration
Initiative (GLRI)
• Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) Urban Forestry and Natural
Resource Stewardship Grants
• Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan and the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation
Next Steps
If approved, staff will:
1. Re-convene the Rouge Green Corridor stakeholder group to reaffirm shared goals
and update baseline data.
2. Expand participation to include the Cities of Farmington and Farmington Hills,
alongside existing partners—Southfield, Birmingham, Beverly Hills, the Southeast
Oakland County Water Authority, Friends of the Rouge, Six Rivers Land
Conservancy, the Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner, and Oakland
County Economic Development.
3. Develop a refreshed Rouge Green Corridor Framework Plan summarizing current
conditions, shared priorities, and partnership opportunities for presentation in 2026.
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Move to authorize Oakland County Parks and Recreation staff to re-convene the Rouge Green
Corridor stakeholder group, expand participation to include the Cities of Farmington and
Farmington Hills, and allocate up to $150,000 from Budgeted Equity Adjustment line in FY26 to
support facilitation, technical planning, and framework development for the expanded Rouge
Green Corridor initiative. A Budgeted Amendment will be included in the First Quarter Forecast.
Participating communities will be asked to contribute a nominal amount of approximately $5,000
each to demonstrate commitment to the effort.
Oakland County Parks & Recreation
FY26 Re-Launch Proposal
Reconnecting Communities through the Rouge
Rouge Green
Corridor (RGC)
•Rouge Green CorridorUrban river flowing through Birmingham, Beverly Hills, & Southfield that provides a haven for wildlife and people to enjoy
•Rouge Green Corridor Inventory and Management Plan completed in 2008 (ASTI)
•The Rouge Green Corridor initiative is being reactivated in 2026 under Oakland County Parks leadership to renew cross-jurisdictional coordination and update the 2008 ASTI framework
Background
Rouge Green Corridor
Preserves the Rouge greenway and the county's natural resources
Protects the floodplain and improves natural green infrastructure
Increases habitat diversity
Increases regional connectivity
Promotes outdoor recreation
Advances Mission 26 Pillars: Access & Equity, Stewardship & Public Value.
Creates a unified ecological and recreational corridor through multiple communities.
Supports grant readiness and regional investment.
Benefits
Rouge Green Corridor
Framework Goals
Rouge Green Corridor
Restore and connect habitat and floodplain.
Enhance water quality and reduce erosion
Manage invasive species and woody debris
Expand trail and recreation access
Engage and educate communities
Southfield and Upper Rouge Corridor
Rouge Green Corridor
These sections of the
Rouge Green Corridor
contain ecologically
significant state-ranked
plant communities
•Reconvene original RGC partners and expand to include Farmington & Farmington Hills.
•Update technical data and GIS mapping to guide restoration priorities.
•Identify pilot project opportunities demonstrating early success.
•Coordinate trail and greenway planning for continuous Rouge access.
Opportunities for Expansion
Rouge Green Corridor
Next Steps & Recommended FY26 Actions
Rouge Green Corridor
Establish
Rouge Green
Corridor Seed
Fund ($150 K
from
Unallocated
Net Equity).
Request
nominal $5 K
participation
from each
partner
community to
demonstrate
commitment.
Retain
consultant
support for
facilitation,
GIS updates,
and
framework
planning.
Develop draft
Rouge Green
Corridor
Framework
Plan for 2026
presentation.
1 2 3 4
FY26 Seed Funding Proposal
Rouge Green Corridor
Category Estimated Cost Range
Facilitation & Coordination $25 K–$40 K
Technical / GIS Analysis $30 K–$50 K
Framework Plan $35 K–$60 K
Public Engagement $10 K–$20 K
Pilot Project Reserve $20 K–$30 K
Total Estimated ≈ $150 K (County Seed Investment)
Partners will be invited to contribute ~$5 K each; external funding may be pursued from
EGLE 319, GLRI, MDNR Stewardship, and CFSEM
Thank You
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 12
Department: Administration
From: Chris Ward, Director
Subject: Clinton River Water Trail Partnership
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
The Clinton River Water Trail is a 72-mile designated paddling route recognized by the Michigan
Department of Natural Resources and the National Park Service as a National Water Trail. The
segment within Oakland County is a cornerstone of the region’s blue-green recreation network,
connecting county parks, local parks, and downtown riverfronts through Rochester, Rochester
Hills, Auburn Hills, Pontiac, and Waterford.
For more than a decade, CRWC has served as the trail’s lead coordinating entity. Oakland County
Parks and Recreation (OCPR) has historically contributed to water-trail stewardship through its
government membership with CRWC and targeted in-kind support (signage, debris removal, and
site maintenance). However, overall investment in the trail and associated public access points
has lagged behind the growing popularity of paddling and river recreation.
CRWC’s 2025 plan update establishes three key goals for the next phase of trail development:
1.Accessibility — Improve launch sites, signage, and safety infrastructure.
2.Visibility — Strengthen communications, outreach, and mapping for paddlers.
3.Ecological Benefits — Advance large woody debris management, restoration, and
monitoring.
Proposal
CRWC requests an annual contribution of $50,000 per year for three years (2026 – 2028) from
OCPR. The investment would:
•Support the hiring of a 0.6 FTE Water Trail Coordinator dedicated to Oakland County.
•Fund collaborative work on launch-site improvements (up to three per year), signage
replacement, and water-level gauge installations.
•Enhance communications, safety reporting, and website functionality for paddlers.
•Strengthen coordination between CRWC and OCPR Natural Resources staff for large
woody debris management and ecological restoration.
CRWC will match OCPR’s commitment with funds from Macomb-based donors, private
foundations, and state/federal grant sources. The combined investment is projected at
approximately $328,000 over the three-year term, with OCPR’s portion leveraging additional
outside funding and capacity.
Rationale
This cooperative agreement advances multiple Mission 26 objectives:
•Access & Equity: Expands safe, inclusive access to water recreation across multiple
communities.
RETURN TO AGENDA
• Activation & Health: Promotes active outdoor lifestyles through paddling and trail use.
• Environmental Leadership: Builds resilience through restoration and sustainable river
management.
• Public Value: Strengthens interjurisdictional partnerships and leverages external
resources for countywide benefit.
OCPR’s investment would also address long-standing underinvestment in river-based recreation
infrastructure while positioning Oakland County as a leader in the region’s interconnected
blueway system.
Fiscal Impact
Funding for the CRWC partnership is proposed from Unallocated Net Equity. Staff will
coordinate with CRWC annually to identify shared priorities and ensure accountability for
deliverables consistent with OCPR’s strategic objectives. Future renewal will be subject to
satisfactory performance and Commission review.
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Move to authorize the Director to enter into a three-year cooperative funding agreement with the
Clinton River Watershed Council to implement the Clinton River Water Trail Comprehensive Plan
(2025) within Oakland County, providing $50,000 annually from 2026 through 2028, subject to
final review by Corporation Counsel and the County Executive’s Contract Compliance Unit.
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 13
Department: Administration
From:
Subject:
Kevin Syoen, Chief Budget and Procurement
Creation of Strategic Sourcing Agent Position
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
Creation of a Strategic Sourcing Agent position within the Parks and Recreation Department. This
position will support the department’s expanded capital program following the recent passage of
the millage, while also improving efficiency and consistency across purchasing and procurement
functions.
With the approval of the new millage, the Parks and Recreation Department will experience a
significant increase in the number and scale of capital improvement projects. The department’s
current purchasing structure is not adequately staffed to manage the volume, complexity, and
time-sensitive nature of these upcoming initiatives. Timely procurement of materials, equipment,
and contracted services is essential to ensure projects stay on schedule and within budget. The
introduction of a Strategic Sourcing Agent will provide dedicated capacity to manage
procurement-related tasks, coordinate with vendors, and expedite purchasing requests.
The Strategic Sourcing Agent will:
•Support the department’s purchasing and procurement functions for both operational and
capital needs.
•Serve as a liaison with the County Purchasing Division to ensure compliance with all
County policies and procedures.
•Assist project managers with solicitation preparation, bid review, contract administration,
and vendor management.
•Identify opportunities for cost savings, vendor consolidation, and process improvement.
•Facilitate quicker turnaround times on purchases by streamlining internal coordination and
communication.
This position will be trained by County Purchasing staff to ensure full compliance with established
procurement procedures and policies.
Expected Outcomes:
•Improved efficiency and consistency in procurement processes.
•Reduced delays in purchasing for capital and operational projects.
•Enhanced collaboration between the department and County Purchasing.
•Better alignment of procurement practices with the department’s strategic goals and
millage commitments.
ATTACHMENTS
1.Budget Amendment – Schedule A
RETURN TO AGENDA
RECOMENDED MOTION
Move to recommend to the Oakland County Board of Commissioners approval of the creation of
a full-time Strategic Sourcing Agent Position.
R/E Fund Name Division Name
Fund #
(FND)Cost Center (CCN) #
Account #
(RC/SC)
Program #
(PRG)
Grant ID
(GRN) #
Project
ID #
(PROJ)
Region
(REG)
Budget
Fund
Affiliate
(BFA)
Ledger
Account
Summary Account Title
FY 2026
Amendment
FY 2027
Amendment
FY 2028
Amendment
E Parks and Recreation PR Adminstrative Services
FND5080
0 CCN5060101 SC702010 PRG160000 702000 Salaries Regular 81,619$ 88,599$ 100,056$
E Parks and Recreation PR Adminstrative Services
FND5080
0 CCN5060101 SC722790 PRG160000 722000 Social Security 6,243 6,777 7,359
E Parks and Recreation PR Adminstrative Services
FND5080
0 CCN5060101 SC722770 PRG160000 722000 Retirement 18,878 20,492 23,142
E Parks and Recreation PR Adminstrative Services
FND5080
0 CCN5060101 SC722810 PRG160000 722000 Disability 1,224 1,328 1,500
E Parks and Recreation PR Adminstrative Services
FND5080
0 CCN5060101 SC722820 PRG160000 722000 Unemployment Insurance 41 44 50
E Parks and Recreation PR Adminstrative Services
FND5080
0 CCN5060101 SC722760 PRG160000 722000 Group Life 179 194 220
E Parks and Recreation PR Adminstrative Services
FND5080
0 CCN5060101 SC722750 PRG160000 722000 Workers Compensation 498 540 610
E Parks and Recreation PR Adminstrative Services
FND5080
0 CCN5060101 SC722780 PRG160000 722000 Hospitalization 15,370 15,370 15,370
E Parks and Recreation PR Adminstrative Services
FND5080
0 CCN5060101 SC722800 PRG160000 722000 Dental 844 844 844
E Parks and Recreation PR Adminstrative Services
FND5080
0 CCN5060101 SC722850 PRG160000 722000 Optical 36 36 36
E Parks and Recreation PR Planned Use of Balance
FND5080
0 CCN5060666 SC796500 PRG160666 796500 Budgeted Equity Adjustment (124,932) (134,224) (149,187)
Total Expenditures - -$ -$
WHEREAS a FY 2026 - 2028 budget amendment including step and general salary increases totalling $124,932 in FY 2026, $134,224 in FY 2027 and $149,187 in FY 2028, is recommended for Parks and Recreation to create a Strategic Sourcing Agent position within Parks and Recreation
Administration to support expanded capital projects and improve efficiency and cosistency across purchasing and procurement functions.
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Position Creation - Strategic Sourcing Agent
Oakland County, Michigan
Schedule "A" DETAIL
2800 Watkins Lake Road, Waterford, MI 48328
248-858-0906 OaklandCountyParks.com
Memo
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Chris Ward
Date: October 28, 2025
Re: Director’s Report
Prevailing Wage/OC Best Value Policy
Per Commission discussion at your last meeting, I have followed up with Corporation Counsel and
Purchasing regarding the issue of requiring prevailing wage for construction projects. The opinion follows
my report along with a copy of the county’s Best Value Policy for your interest.
60th Anniversary Plans
In 2026, Oakland County Parks and Recreation celebrates its 60th Anniversary and mission to provide
recreation opportunities to all Oakland County residents.
With a theme of “Growing Green Parks”, Oakland County Parks will focus on its achievements from the
opening of Springfield Oaks Golf Course in 1966 to the acquisition of Clinton River Oaks Park in 2025.
Marketing materials will tell the story of historic innovation, increased access and partnerships that helped
build the parks system.
Dave Vander Veen, Nancy Quarles, and Sue Wells have agreed to serve as honorary co-chairs for our
60th birthday celebrations throughout the year.
To honor commissioners, staff and retirees who helped make visions a reality over the last 60 years, an
Oakland County Parks Family Reunion picnic event will be hosted in September.
Apple Island Staff Tour
On Oct 10, Oakland County Parks Staff, along with OCPRC Chair Bagley, took a guided kayaking
adventure to Apple Island with local historians and naturalists from the Orchard Lake area, using the
Independence Oaks fleet of kayaks provided by Jeremy Brown and Mike Boyd. The OCP crew
experienced a tour of the island to learn about its rich cultural and natural history. The 35-acre island is
RETURN TO AGENDA
an uninhabited nature preserve in the middle of Orchard Lake. It’s a nationally registered historic place
due to its archeological significance.
Oakland County Parks, City of Orchard Lake, the Greater West Bloomfield Historical Society, and the
West Bloomfield School District are exploring possible ways to activate the island with more opportunities
for students to visit by boat on school field trips and to make the island more accessible for learning.
Groveland Campout with “We Love Lit” Pontiac Families
For a 2nd year, Oakland County Parks and the Rotary Club shared an impactful weekend of camping with
the families of We Love Lit, a non-profit literacy group of Pontiac, at Groveland Oaks County Park
Campground. The camp-out was an opportunity to activate and maximize the value of the campground
during the off-season, while inspiring families that have had limited camping experiences.
This effort was coordinated by Jon Noyes (OCP Principal Planner); Jamie Weasel (Parks Supervisor)
and his Groveland Oaks Campground Staff; Ashlie Smith (Chief of Nature and Outdoor Education),
Rebecca Sedam (Naturalist) and Matthew Hackett (Naturalist) of the Nature Education Team; volunteer
families from the Rotary Club and a grant from Pontiac Promise. Goldner Walsh donated native oak trees
for each family to plant at the campground to round out the weekend.
The children shared their highlights: fishing, fire building, the night hike, sleeping in the yurts/cabins and
enjoying s’mores around the campfire while listening to Carol Egbo’s bedtime stories (OCP Historian).
Mission 26 Monthly Update & Stakeholder Sessions
An update follows this report in your packet. Stakeholder Sessions have been scheduled for December
1st at the Hawk Recreation facility in Farmington Hills with a daytime option from 10am – noon and
evening option from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. We are building out an invite list. If there are individuals or
groups you want to be sure are included, please forward to Jami.
Hi Chris and Alan—
In advance of the November Parks Commission meeting, you requested information
regarding Michigan’s Prevailing Wage Act relating to local governments due to repeated
questions from a Park Commissioners. It is my understanding that this Parks Commissioner
wants a provision inserted in all Parks contracts requiring that a contractor/vendor pay
“prevailing wage” on work done for the County under that contract. Please see my below
research and analysis. I have also copied Aaron Wagoner and Alycia Williams, f rom
Procurement/Purchasing, on this e-mail, so they are aware of this issue too.
The Local Government Labor Regulatory Limitation Act ("Act"), MCL 123.1381 et seq.,
provides the following with respect to prevailing wage and a “local governmental body”:
A local governmental body shall not adopt, enforce, or administer an ordinance, local
policy, or local resolution requiring an employer to pay to an employee a wage or
fringe benefit based on wage and fringe benefit rates prevailing in the locality. This
section does not apply to state projects subject to 1965 PA 166, MCL 408.551 to
408.558. MCL 123.1386.
Oakland County is a “local governmental body,” as defined by the Act. To my knowledge and
based on my legal search today, the above statute is still in effect.
The Michigan Court of Appeals in Associated Builders & Contrs. Greater Michigan Chapter v.
Charter Twp. Of Meridian, 344 Mich. App, 574 (2022) examined the issue of whether a
township (“local governmental body”) could adopt "Guidelines" that require employers
working on township contracts to pay "prevailing wages" and fringe benefits.
The Court of Appeals, in the above-referenced case, decided that the “guideline” violated
the Act and found:
• MCL 123.1386 prohibits the adoption of a local policy or resolution requiring the
payment of prevailing wages in all contracts, whether or not it is enforced.
• While a local government may adopt a policy or resolution setting forth the terms and
conditions of its own contracts, such a policy may not require an employer to pay to
an employee a wage or fringe benefit based on wage and fringe benefit rates
prevailing in the locality.
• MCL 123.1386 is aimed at ordinances, policies and resolutions requiring prevailing
wages, but it does not prohibit a local government from entering into a contract with
an employer who voluntary pays their employees the local prevailing wage. . MCL
123.1383(e). Along those same lines, MCL 123.1386 also does not prohibit a local
government from deciding—on a contract-to-contract basis—to award a contract to
an employer that pays the prevailing wage.
• The Act does not preclude local governments from determining on an individual
project basis that employee wage and benefit levels are relevant to the determination
of which bidder should receive the contract, consistent with the standards defined in
its charter and ordinances that do not run afoul of MCL 123.1386.
• Please note that the Court determined that the title of the document, in this case,
“guideline” was immaterial. The Court examined the substance of the document and
not the title of the document.
Thus, it would be my opinion that requiring all Parks contracts or County contracts to have a
“prevailing wage” provision would violate the Act. Let me know if you have any questions or
need further clarification.
Jody
Jody S. Hall
Assistant Corporation Counsel
Office of Corporation Counsel
Oakland County, Michigan
All ways, moving forward
Policy #: 19416 Adoption Date: January 22, 2020
“Attachment A”
Responsible Bidder and Best Value Bid Evaluation Standards for Construction
Projects Policy
SECTION I. PURPOSE/APPLICABILITY
The purpose of this Policy is to provide a framework for the evaluation and selection of bidders for Construction Projects and for administration of Construction Project contracts. This Policy requires that “Best Value” must be used when awarding Construction Project contracts and that such contracts be awarded to Responsive Bidders and Responsible Bidders. This policy also provides guidance for the administration and management of Construction Project contracts to ensure accountability in the enforcement of contract terms and to measure performance for future experience ratings. This policy supplements existing Oakland County Purchasing Policies and Procedures and is not intended to replace such Policies and Procedures. The Compliance Officer or Manager of Purchasing shall incorporate this Policy into the Oakland County Purchasing Policies and Procedures under the direction of the Compliance Office and the County Executive.
This Policy applies to Construction Projects. This Policy does not apply to Construction Projects funded, in-full or in-part, by federal or state grants where the grant requirements would conflict with this Policy and does not apply to Construction Projects which began prior to the effective date of this Policy. The Purchasing Administrator or Manager of Purchasing shall make the determination if the grant requirements conflict with this Policy and shall notify the Board of Commissioners of any exclusions from this Policy through a communications item to the appropriate liaison committee(s).
SECTION II. DEFINITIONS
Construction Project – means a project, which has an estimated value of more than two hundred fifty thousand dollars ($250,000.00) for the construction, alteration, or repair of any public building or any public work of the County of Oakland.
Responsive Bidder – means a bidder that satisfies all the required minimum specifications or permissible alternatives contained in the invitation to bid.
Responsible Bidder – means a bidder that satisfies all the r esponsibility qualifications contained in the invitation to bid.
Best Value – means a procurement method that emphasizes value over price and uses responsibility qualifications in the evaluation and selection of bids. These responsibility qualifications and their value/weight will be set forth in the invitation to bid and may include, but are not limited to, the following: quality, references, experience, proposed schedule, safety, time and cost.
SECTION III. RESPONSIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS
The Purchasing Administrator and/or requesting Department shall establish responsibility qualifications, which shall be set forth in the invitation to bid. Depending on the scope and size of the Construction Project, the responsibility qualifications may include, but not be limited to, any of the following (the listing of which is not intended to be exhaustive):
Policy #: 19416 Adoption Date: January 22, 2020
- The bidder’s experience on projects of similar size and complexity within the past five (5) years ; - References; - Bidder’s credit worthiness/financial condition/bonding capacity; - Proof of Insurance and/or Certificate of Insurance; - Certification from the bidder that construction workers will not be misclassified; - Disclosure of any debarment by any federal, state or local governmental unit; and - Disclosure of any violations of any federal, state, or local laws, including OSHA/MIOSHA violations.
SECTION IV. BEST VALUE BID EVALUATION AND TABULATION CRITERIA
When evaluating a bid, the following criteria shall be used, as applicable, (the listing of which is not intended to be exhaustive):
- General information about the bidder, its principals, and its history, including state and date of incorporation; - Experience, including a list of similar projects within the past five (5) years; - References from past clients within the past five (5) years, including information regarding the records of performance and job site cooperation; - Qualifications of management and supervisory personnel to be assigned by the bidder to the project; - Trade categories and information regarding the state and local licenses and license numbers held by the bidder; - The ratio of masters or journeypersons to apprentices proposed to be used on the Construction Project job site; - Documentation that the bidder maintains and/or participates in Registered Apprenticeship Training Programs as approved by the United States Department of Labor; - Documentation of a worker’s compensation Experience Modification Rating, for each of the past three (3) years; - Evidence of experience with construction techniques, trade standards, quality workmanship, project scheduling, cost control, and management of projects of comparable size/complexity; - Conformance to bid specifications; - Construction Project Schedule; and - Price.
The requesting Department and Purchasing Administrator or Manager of Purchasing shall weight each of the evaluation criteria based on a 100- percent point scale. Price shall not be weighted more than 40 percent, unless otherwise deemed appropriate within the discretion of the requesting department and as approved by the Purchasing Administrator or Manager of Purchasing.
SECTION V. CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS
The following terms and conditions shall be incorporated into Construction Project contracts:
- Compliance with applicable health, safety and environmental laws and regulations during performance of the contract and prompt disclosure of any complaint or allegation of a violation of any such regulation, and an accident report, relating to work performed under the contract;
Policy #: 19416 Adoption Date: January 22, 2020
- All workers assigned to perform work under the contract shall complete training required under local, state, federal laws and/or regulations, by any governmental or licensing authority, including any required OSHA/MIOSHA training, and upon request by the County, delivery of written evidence such training is complete; - Workers on Construction Projects shall be drug and alcohol free on the job site; - Compliance with the licensing requirements applicable to persons assigned to perform work under the contract; - Promotion of work force and contractor diversity to the fullest degree permitted by law, including prohibition of illegal discrimination and violation of Oakland County’s Non-Discrimination Policy; and - Bidder must require all contractors and subcontractors to comply with this Policy.
SECTION VI. CONTRACT MANAGEMENT
County employees that are assigned as contract administrators on Construction Project contracts must adopt processes to ensure performance in accordance with the terms, conditions, and specifications of the contract.
SECTION VII. CONTRACT CLOSEOUT
Upon the completion of the Construction Project, Oakland County shall provide a contract closeout and establish a final performance rating that may be utilized to establish experience relevant to the contractor’s responsibility qualifications for consideration in future bids.
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION
COMMISSION
Mission 26 Monthly Update (November 2025)
1. Access & Equity Highlights
• Clinton River Oaks approved by OC, Rochester Hills. Rochester considering final agreement later this month. Strong public response to announcement. Moving to transition planning and public engagement phase.
• Heritage Park partnership public engagement efforts complete with positive response. Refining transition, improvement, and operations plans for consideration by governing boards.
• Frost Elementary School MOU being drafted, EC will consider when complete.
2. Activation & Health
• Bicentennial Oaks/OCFM Modernization – RFP released for project design/plan. CW and AJ met with vendors to provide status update, seek initial feedback. Change name to “Oakland Commons?”
• Waterpark Market Demand analysis poll in the field. Voluntary survey responses indicate strong preference to rebuild/re-open Waterford Oaks.
• Staff finalizing broad concept development plan for Waterford Oaks four season activity hub with hope to roll out for public feedback within a month.
• Touring park sites to discuss park re-investment plans and guest experience enhancements.
3. Learning & Environmental Leadership
• Bowers/Johnson BH Schools Partnership Public Engagement wrapping up. Presentation at next OCPRC meeting.
• Building plan and staff capacity for expanded volunteer driven action and activity.
• Arranging site visit to Greening of Detroit for inspiration
• Great Apple Island tour, WB Schools ready for dialogue in spring 26
4. Stewardship & Public Value
• Co-Creation Lab in development. Possible launch in 3-4 weeks.
• Stakeholder engagement sessions scheduled. Invites going out.
• CW presented M26 Plan to LAGO Committee with positive response.
• Met with CFO to discuss financing options.
Mission 26:
People Centered
Strategic
Transformation Plan
Presented by:
Chris Ward, Director
Oakland County Parks
Reimaging parks and outdoor recreation as essential health and civic infrastructure.
MILLAGE APPROVAL OPENS
THE DOOR TO NEW
OPPORTUNITIES,
RESPONSIBILITIES
ADDRESS LONG-DELAYED MAJOR CAPITAL PROJECTS
ADAPT TO SERVE ALL OAKLAND COUNTY RESIDENTS
MODERNIZE TO MEET CURRENT AND FUTURE DEMANDS
EARN AND MAINTAIN PUBLIC TRUST
We build
the plane
while
flying it…
… while changing
the pilot &
destination,
adding
passengers, &
merging with
other airlines.
2020-25: EXTRAORDINARY GROWTH
& CHANGE AT OC PARKS
New
Leadership &
Priorities
+ 2 New
Parks
+ 3 More
Planned
10x Spending
for Capital
Improvements
100% Increase
in Annual
Budget
Parks Boost Mental
Health
•Stress Down: Time in nature lowers
cortisol and anxiety within minutes.
•Mind Sharper: Green views and walks
improve focus, memory, and cognition.
•Mood Up: Regular park visits cut
depression risk by up to 30%.
•Connection Counts: Shared park spaces
reduce loneliness and isolation.
•Healing Environments: Hospital patients
with green views recover faster with less
pain.
Parks Power Fitness &
Health
•Move More: Active parks boost use by
~50% and exercise by 37%.
•Live Longer: Nearby green space lowers
risk of heart disease, obesity, and
diabetes.
•Feel Better: Just 30 minutes in nature
reduces blood pressure and stress.
•Bridge Inequities: Parks are often the
only free, safe places for physical activity
.
•Save Money: Health benefits return $3–
$5 for every $1 invested in parks.
Parks Connect People & Communities
•Built for Belonging: Parks are the most common place strangers become neighbors.
•Social Glue: Communities with vibrant parks report higher trust and civic pride.
•Safer Together: Well-used parks correlate with lower crime and stronger social cohesion.
•Equity Anchors: Accessible parks ensure everyone shares in public life.
•Local Economy, Local Joy: Park events and markets revitalize neighborhoods and keep dollars close to home.
Future Trends:
Aging Population
By the end of this decade,
seniors will outnumber children
Fastest-growing segment of the
population is residents aged 85
and older
24 of 28 school districts have
declining enrollment
Future Trend:
Extreme Weather
Since 2010, Michigan has averaged one billion-dollar weather disaster per year, compared to just 2 total in the 1980s.
By 2050, Michigan is projected to have 30–60 days per year above 90°F, compared to just 9 days historically
Michigan has seen a 16% increase in annual rainfall since 1951, with a 35% increase in the heaviest downpours
Future Trend:
Growing Diversity
30% of Troy residents are
foreign born
One in six OC residents speak
a language other than English
at home
Between 2020 and 2050,
Michigan’s total population of
color is projected to surge from
23% to 37%
The Transformation Framework
1. Recreation for All – Proximity & Access
2. Activation & Health — Four Seasons of Parks Alive with People
3. Learning & Environmental Leadership — Parks as Living Classrooms
4. Stewardship & Public Value — Trust as Our Covenant
Four Pillars of Mission 26:
Recreation for All:
Advancing Access• Partnership-driven park revitalization and expansion projects• Updated amenities and facilities to serve changing public needs and access for people of all ages and abilities• Expanding the network of greenways (regional trails) and blueways (river recreation corridors) that connect parks to people• Guest experience centered development and operation plans Bringing Parks Closer to People
Highlight:
Heritage Park
Partnership
•Potential south OC flagship
•211-acres in Farmington Hills, with over 4
miles of trails and large nature preserve
•estimated 250,000 annual visitors — making
one of the region’s most heavily used public
spaces.
•FH Nature Center & Spicer Farm
Activation & Health —
Parks Alive with People
•Free and low-cost fitness and
wellbeing programming
•Expand all-season amenities and
special events to increase visits in
winter, fall and spring
•Reimagine aging facilities into
adaptable multi-use/season
attractions
•Measure success by participation
and use Empty parking lots equal missed opportunities
to change lives
Highlight:
Waterford Oaks Four
Season Attractions
•Dual-season core: Summer water attractions transform
into a winter ice river & festival zone.
•Adaptive design: Renewable energy systems, modular
infrastructure, and efficient water reuse.
•Year-round activation: Spring/Fall events—Flower Fest,
Pumpkin Fest, Harvest Walks—keep the park alive 12
months a year.
•Economic resilience: Continuous revenue, steady
employment, reduced reliance on subsidy.
Learning & Environmental
Stewardship — Parks as
Living Classrooms
• The Discovery Gateway Network — spaces dedicated to hands-on learning, exploration, and celebration of nature, farm & food, heritage, and culture.• Ready to Explore – programs that help new audiences confidently experience the outdoors for the first time —• The OC Nature Corps – a volunteer and workforce development program that trains residents as citizen scientists and stewards, • Oakland County Farmers Market & County Commons – a vibrant, welcoming public space that celebrates local food, creativity, and community life.“Early exposure to parks and nature builds lasting
benefits- healthier bodies, sharper minds…”
Nature Corps
Inspiration
Public Voice & Value
— Shared
Stewardship
• The Co-Creation Lab — a permanent online platform dedicated to collaborative decision making and ongoing engagement • PureOakland.com – a one-stop shop for information about parks, trails, recreation, and more • Transparent budgeting, planning, and performance management data easily accessible by the public.• Sound long-term fiscal management and planning.Every dollar must show visible, measurable public benefit
73% of residents within 3 miles of county funded park by 2030 (up from 40%)
2.3 Miles - Average distance to county funded park. (down from 3.7 miles)
25% Southern OC residents share of visits. (up from 20%)
Total Annual Visits: 1.82 million (up from 1.5 million)
650 acres added to park system through partnerships through 2025
Additional 640 acres subject to proposed partnerships
Key Stats
What’s Next?
Fall 2025
•Launch public engagement campaign, Co-Creation Lab, and PureOakland.com
•Finalize priority partnerships and draft budget frameworks
Winter 2026
•Adopt final Mission 26 Plan
•Publish implementation roadmap and performance scorecard
Summer 2026
•Break ground on early capital projects
•Launch pilot programs and mobile services
A Promise for the
Next Generation
Together, we are shaping a parks system that
reflects who we are today and the county we
want to become tomorrow.
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Upcoming Events – November 2025
Active Adults
November 3 Active Living Every Day (ALED) - Pontiac
November 10 Active Living Every Day (ALED) - Pontiac
November 17 Active Living Every Day (ALED) - Pontiac
November 24 Active Living Every Day (ALED) - Pontiac
Adaptive
November 6 Special Olympics – Young Athlete – Pleasant Ridge
November 13 Special Olympics – Young Athlete – Pleasant Ridge
November 20 Special Olympics – Young Athlete – Pleasant Ridge
History
November 19 Fireside Chat - Virtual
Mobile Recreation
November 1 Stage - Southwest Detroit Business Association Run of the Dead
November 2 Bus - OC Planning & Economic Development tour in Downtown Pontiac
November 7 Bleachers - Notre Dame Prep Football
November 13 Bus - OCPRC – Admin Park Tour
November 13 Bus - OCPRC - Admin Park Tour
November 14 Bleachers - Dame Prep Football
November 15 Go Games! - Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. Community Vibe
November 24 Stage - Rochester DDA Lagniappe
Nature Education
Field Trips & Birthday Parties
November 1 Birthday Party – Micha – Red Oaks Nature Center
November 1 Birthday Party – Maysoun – Red Oaks Nature Center
November 2 Birthday Party – Crosby – Red Oaks Nature Center
November 6 Field Trip & Planetarium Show – Red Oaks Nature Center
November 8 Field Trip – Girl Scouts – Wint Nature Center
November 9 Birthday Party – Roman – Wint Nature Center
November 15 Birthday Party – Jacob – Red Oaks Nature Center
November 22 Birthday Party – Tucker – Red Oaks Nature Center
November 25 Field Trip – St. Isaac Church Mom & Tot Group – Red Oaks Nature Center
Homeschool Series
November 7 Morning Munchkins Preschool Program – Red Oaks Nature Center
November 13 Homeschool Series: Sky Play Day – Red Oaks Nature Center
November 14 Puddle Jumpers Preschool Program – Wint Nature Center
November 19 Homeschool Series: Sky Play Day – Wint Nature Center
Public Nature Programs
November 6 Early Childhood Hour Out – Wint Nature Center
November 7 Michigan Myths and Cryptids Hike – Wint Nature Center
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Upcoming Events – November 2025
November 8 Restore in the Outdoors: Autumn Appreciation Drum Circle – Red Oaks
November 9 Wellness in the Woods: Clay, Play and Display – Red Oaks Nature Center
November 13 Early Childhood Hour Out – Wint Nature Center
November 15 Oh Deer! Herd Hike – Red Oaks Nature Center
November 15 Sunset on Mars Planetarium Show – Red Oaks Nature Center
November 20 Early Childhood Hour Out – Wint Nature Center
Outreach
November 5 Full Moon Nature Hike – Southfield Parks and Rec
November 8 Planetarium Show – Auburn Hills Community Center
November 12 Nature Presentation – Madison Heights Active Adults
November 18 Nature Table – Madison Heights Active Adults Center
November 21 Nature Presentation – Independence Village Senior Community
Oakland County Market
November 12 Gleaners Food Distribution
Springfield Oaks
Mon. – Thur. Pickleball – Grand Hall
November 1-2 Private Wedding – Springfield Event Center
November 7-9 Private Wedding - Carousel Hall
November 12-16 Camp Scrap – Event Center
November 21-23 Davisburg Christmas Market – Springfield Event Center