HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgendas/Packets - 2026.07.15 - 43009Call Meeting to Order
Roll Call
Pledge of Allegiance
Approval of Agenda
Public Comment
PRESENTATIONS/RECOGNITIONS:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
A
COMMUNICATIONS/REPORTS:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
B
REGULAR AGENDA:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
Approval
Approval
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
NEW & MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
10
CLOSED SESSION:ACTION PRESENTER(S)
11
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Public Access Information
If you require special accommodations because of a disability, please contact the Parks & Recreation Department at
(248) 858-0906, Ext. 9, at least three (3) business days in advance of the meeting.
ADJOURNMENT TO: August 5, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. or to the Call of the Chair
View Agenda Packets/Minutes Here:
https://www.oakgov.com/community/oakland-county-parks/get-involved/parks-commission
Approval of Minutes - June 3, 2026
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
Ebony Bagley, Chair
Wednesday, July 15, 2026 @ 2:00 pm
Springfield Oaks Event Center - 12451 Andersonville Road, Davisburg, MI 48350
Regular Monthly Meeting Agenda
June 3, 2026
Chair Bagley called the meeting of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission to order at
2:00 p.m. in the Parks Commission Room.
COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT:
Ebony Bagley, Yolanda Smith Charles, Ann Erickson Gault, Kate Baker, Lola Banks, Christine Long, Eric
McPherson, Jim Nash, Shanell Weatherspoon
COMMISSION MEMBERS ABSENT WITH NOTICE:
Andrea LaFontaine
OTHERS PRESENT:
PARKS AND RECREATION Chris Ward, Director
Alan Jaros, Deputy Director
Jim Dunleavy, Manager – Park Management & Operations
Esther Jackson, Manager – Strategic Planning & Performance
Colin Gibbs, Chief – Facilities Maintenance
Tom Hughes, Chief – Park Operations – North District
Bill Singleton, Chief – Business Systems
Ashlie Smith, Chief – Nature & Outdoor Education
Desiree Stanfield, Chief – Communications & Marketing
Kevin Syoen, Chief – Budget & Procurement
Zach Zuchowicz, DEI & Community Engagement Coordinator
Andy Krumwiede, Strategic Sourcing Agent
Simon Rivers, Planning Supervisor
Jami Monte, Administrative Services Coordinator
Liz Caltagirone, Data Analyst
Sean Zera, Natural Resources Program Coordinator
Megan Schildberg, GIS CAD Technician Senior
Brad Wethy, Assistant Park Supervisor – Waterford Oaks
Robert Jeglum, Skilled Maintenance Mechanic II
Shannon Kenny, Technical Office Specialist
Hilary Young, Recreation Program Specialist
MSU EXTENSION Kristi Evans, Director
Lisa Mazzola, 4-H Program Coordinator
OFFICE OF SUSTAINABILITY Sarah Cook-Maylen, Manager
WATER RESOURCES COMMISSIONER Jack Barshaw, Administrative Assistant to Elected Official
PUBLIC Rex Mathewson, Headwater Trails, Inc.
Rose Murphy
Roman Wasylkovich, Waterford Greenways
Paul Zachos
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
Kate Baker
Lola Banks
Ann Erickson Gault
Christine Long
Eric McPherson
Jim Nash
Shanell Weatherspoon
RETURN TO AGENDA
June 3, 2026 Page 2
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Long moved to approve the agenda, as presented. Seconded by Nash.
Motion carried on a voice vote.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
McPherson moved to approve the minutes of the May 6, 2026 meeting, as presented. Seconded
by Erickson Gault.
Motion carried on a voice vote.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
PRESENTATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
A. Service Award: Sarah Cook-Maylen
Chair Bagley recognized and thanked Sarah Cook-Maylen for her work and contributions to Oakland
County Parks and Recreation.
B. Communications and Marketing Review 2025
Ms. Stanfield provided an overview of the Communications and Marketing Review 2025.
C. 9-Line Corridor Updates
Mr. Rivers provided updates on the 9-Line Corridor.
D. Staff Appreciation – Events, Awards
Ms. Jackson provided an overview of staff appreciation awards, acknowledgements and upcoming
events. In particular, she noted and thanked Jim Dunleavy on his 40-year work anniversary and Desiree
Stanfield on her 35-year work anniversary.
COMMUNICATIONS/REPORTS
E. Monthly Financial Report
Mr. Syoen provided an overview of the FY2026 Monthly Financial Report.
F. MSUE 2025 Annual Report
Ms. Evans provided an overview of the MSUE 2025 Annual Report.
REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS
1. 2026 Water Safety & Swim Lesson Partnership MOU
Long moved to approve to the 2026 Collaborative Partnership Memorandum of Understanding
between the Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority and Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission to develop the Water Safety and Swim Lessons program at Waterford Kettering
Pool to residents of Pontiac and neighboring areas, and to expand efforts to reduce drownings
and increase water safety, and forward to the Board of Commissioners for approval. Seconded
by Weatherspoon.
June 3, 2026 Page 3
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
2. Recognizing July is Park and Recreation Month
McPherson moved to approve the resolution proposing July 2026 as Park and Recreation Month
and forward to the Board of Commissioners. Seconded by Nash.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
3. Commission Policy Modernization Package
Baker moved to adopt the Resolution Adopting the Omnibus Commission Policy Modernization
Package and Repealing Obsolete Commission Policies, including adoption of new Commission
policies, amendment of existing Commission policies, renaming of Turtle Woods County Park,
and repeal of obsolete or superseded Commission policies, as presented. Seconded by Smith
Charles.
Following discussion, Bagley moved to postpone consideration of this item until the July 15,
2026, regular meeting. Seconded by Erickson Gault.
Motion to postpone carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
4. Bloomfield Oaks / Discovery Oaks Interlocal Services Agreement with Bloomfield Hills
Schools - Revised
Smith Charles moved to approve the Interlocal Services Agreement between Oakland County
and Bloomfield Hills Schools for transition services and operational continuity at Discovery Oaks
and Bloomfield Oaks, and authorize the Chair of the Board of Commissioners to execute the
agreement on behalf of the County. Seconded by Baker.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
5. FY2026 Michigan Invasive Species Grant Acceptance
Smith Charles moved to approve the project agreement for the FY2026 Michigan Invasive
Species Grant Program and forward to the Board of Commissioners for their approval.
Seconded by Long.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
6. FY2026 EGLE Great Lakes Management Program Grant Acceptance
Nash moved to approve the grant agreement for the FY2026 EGLE Great Lakes Management
Program Grant Acceptance and forward to the Board of Commissioners for their approval.
Seconded by Erickson Gault.
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
June 3, 2026 Page 4
NEW & MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS
7. Director’s Report
Director Ward provided an overview of his report, including an update on the Southfield Oaks project
status and phased implementation approach.
8. Executive Committee Update
Chair Bagley advised that there are no updates on this item.
ANNOUNCEMENTS/ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner Nash invited Commissioners to attend the Art, Fish, Fun event at Beaudette Park on
June 13 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Chair Bagley reminded Commissioners that the next meeting will be held at the Springfield Oaks Event
Center on July 15, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., during the Oakland County Fair. She encouraged Commissioners
to visit the Fair during its July 10-19 run.
Chair Bagley announced the birth of Commissioner LaFontaine's baby late last month.
At 3:45 p.m., there being no further business to come before the Commission, the meeting was
adjourned to July 15, 2026, 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
$68,596,827.00 $70,820,827.00 $65,015,010.85 ($5,805,816.15)91.80%
$68,596,827.00 $70,820,827.00 $34,600,264.45 $36,220,562.55 48.86%
Adopted Amended Actual Favorability/UNF Percentage
$6,574,600.00 $6,574,600.00 $4,053,792.10 ($2,520,807.90)61.66%
$7,400,995.00 $7,400,995.00 $5,110,228.26 $2,290,766.74 69.05%
Adopted Amended Actual Favorability/UNF Percentage
$1,635,615.00 $1,635,615.00 $182,160.26 ($1,453,454.74)11.14%
$2,177,748.00 $2,177,748.00 $986,240.17 $1,191,507.83 45.29%
Adopted Amended Actual Favorability/UNF Percentage
$2,226,000.00 $2,222,600.00 $1,582,096.94 ($640,503.06)71.18%
$4,490,879.00 $4,490,879.00 $2,652,829.73 $1,838,049.27 59.07%
Adopted Amended Actual Favorability/UNF Percentage
$320,000.00 $369,000.00 $165,273.50 ($203,726.50)44.79%
$446,124.00 $446,124.00 $168,550.39 $277,573.61 37.78%
Awarded Amount Paid Out
$2,995,216.00 $2,116,750.00
$1,448,283.13
Expenses
Amount Remaining
$878,466.00
$2,242,274.65
FY 2025
FY 2026 YTD
The County strategy is to invest in longer term Agencies and Treasuries. Before the
unprecedented rise in short term rates this strategy consistently outpreformed the short term
investments (CDs and High Yeild Savings accounts).
FY 2022 - 2026 YTD
Expenses
Investment Income
Summary of Community Grant Program
Parks and Recreation
Summary of Waterpark Programs
Summary of Golf Programs
FY 2026 YTD
Revenue
Expenses
Summary of Parks and Recreation
FY 2026 YTD
Revenue
Expenses
As of 9/30/2025 Current 7/6/2026
$54,556,755.98 $85,144,142.08
Revenue
Expenses
FY 2026 YTD
Expenses
Summary of Campground Programs
Summary of ORV Park Operations
FY 2026 YTD
Revenue
FY 2026 YTD
Revenue
RETURN TO AGENDA
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 1
Department: Development & Engineering
From: Julie O’Brien, Project Manager
Subject: Turtle Woods County Park – Concept Design Approval
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Move to approve Turtle Woods County Park Concept plan and proceed with final design/
engineering for bidding.
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
1.Summary
Turtle Woods is a 70-acre property in Troy, Michigan that has long been an acquisition target
for conservation in Oakland County. This mostly wooded parcel contains a remnant of the
rare wet lakeplain prairie ecosystem, as well as wetlands that filter and feed into the Clinton
River Watershed. Immediately adjacent to Turtle Woods, OCP acquired the “Colberg
Property” – a 1.67-acre residential parcel on Square Lake Road that will become the parks
main entrance and parking area off Square Lake Road.
The Troy schools property has been accessed by residents over the years, using a system of
informal trails that have been worn in by residents over the years. OCP staff learned during
public engagement sessions that the local community is eager to see a more formally
developed trail system and officially open to the public as an Oakland County Park.
In fall of 2025, Staff requested project design RFP (Request for Proposal) through our pre-
qualified design/engineering vendors. PEA (Professional Engineers Associates) was selected
after staff evaluation. In recent months, PEA has conducted further survey work and several
rounds of concept planning. The next stage of the project is to proceed with construction
documents to obtain permits and bid the project for construction approval.
2. Scope
The main scope items for the plan are the parking lot (including ingress/egress), restroom
building, trails, boardwalks, educational/interpretive components, stormwater considerations,
signage, neighborhood connections (including crosswalk across Square Lake Rd), and some
small features at the entrance to the park that inspire mental and physical restoration.
3.Project Schedule
House Demo:Fall/ Winter 2026
Trails, Boardwalks, & Trailhead Construction:Spring/ Summer 2027
Parking Lot & Restroom Construction:Summer 2027
Park Opening:Fall 2027
RETURN TO AGENDA
4. Project Budget
Funding Available:
FY26: TTW 3151, trail design $92,000
FY26: TTW 3150, trailhead design $207,000
FY27: TTW 3151, trail construction $800,000
FY27: TTW 3150, trailhead construction $1,800,000
Total Funding: $2,899,000
Conceptual Total Project Costs:
Survey & Concept Planning $88,015
Construction Documents $67,025
Engineer Cost Opinion $2,740,000
Total Cost: $2,895,040
ATTACHMENTS
1. Attachment A – Concept Site Plan
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Trail Routes:
#1. Accessible out & back (0.5 mi)
Boardwalk & accessible trail
A gentle path leading to a rare ecosystem overlook.
Quiet, restorative, and made for everyone.
#2. Main loop (1.25 mi)
Boardwalk, accessible trail, & rustic trails
Winding woods and rewarding scenic views. Moderate
topographical variety makes this loop suitable for cardio,
but succint enough for a comfortable mid-day reset.
#3. SW Seasonal Spur (0.25 mi)
Rustic/ seasonal trail
Explore a path through a vernal landscape, changing with
the seasons beneath your feet.
#4. NE Seasonal Spur (0.2 mi)
Rustic/ seasonal trail
A tucked-away woodland of noteworthy trees
and imaginative discoveries.
#5. Normandy Drive connector (0.2 mi)
#6. Evenswood Road connector (0.1 mi)
Turtle Woods County Park Site Plan
APRIL 2026
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Boardwalk
TURTLE WOODS NARRATIVE
Experience a living relic shaped by wind, water, and
time. Turtle Woods is a rare ecological landscape,
home to one of the highest concentrations of
biodiversity in the region. Across its 70 acres, shady
wetlands, native grasses, sedges, and wildflowers
form a dynamic mosaic rooted in a lakeplain prairie
ecosystem; a rare habitat unique to the Great Lakes
region. Today, less than 1 % of this landscape still
exists.
The wetlands woven throughout the preserve play a
crucial role in regional water health by filtering runoff,
improving water quality, and supporting the Clinton
River watershed and, ultimately, Lake St. Clair. Here,
layers of plant life and soil function as a living
filtration system, sustaining both wildlife and the
surrounding community.
Beyond its ecological importance, Turtle Woods
provides restorative recreational opportunities,
strengthens connections to surrounding
neighborhoods, and expands access to areas that
were once limited. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful
sights and sounds of the landscape, explore
accessible boardwalks and pathways, or wander
rustic trails that invite both physical and mental
restoration.
Whether walking the trails or simply sitting and
observing the rhythms of the landscape, each visit
deepens your connection to this place. Turtle Woods
serves not only as a refuge, but as an opportunity to
learn from and care for a rare ecosystem by
supporting environmental awareness, stewardship,
and well-being. Over time, it becomes less a
destination and more a companion, continually
inviting you back to reconnect with the remarkable
world it protects.
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Turtle Woods County Park Trailhead Enlargement
APRIL 2026
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Turtle Woods County Park Precedent Imagery
APRIL 2026
Trail & Boardwalk Surfaces
Crushed Stone Trail
Mulched Trail Rustic Trail
Boardwalk
Trailhead Water Component / Interactive Elements
Turtle Woods County Park Precedent Imagery
APRIL 2026
Prefabricated Restroom Building
Interpretive & Wayfinding Signage
Trailhead Amenities
Turtle Woods County Park Precedent Imagery
Climbable boulders to frame entrance and create threshold/portal into park
Solitary seating nooks, tucked back into foliage
Stepping stones or other low-maintenance “zen” types of features by kiosk.
Mirror some of the more rustic & informal pathways that are found deeper within the park
Turtle / boulder /art piece interacting with rain garden.Goals: approachable, interactive, inspiration, placemaker, photo-op.
Aiming for whimsical without being too corny
Instead of a separate play area, marry unstructured play opportunities with the other site elements. Play opportunities can be disguised as landscaping features or artwork
Keep an open lawn area
*Imagery provided by Julie O’Brien
Turtle Woods County Park Precedent Imagery
Fence & Gate
Farm Fence Line
Entry Gate
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 2
Department: Development & Engineering
From: Zach Crane, Supervisor
Subject: Multiple Park Locations – FY27 Roof Replacements
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Move to approve project expenditure not to exceed $220,000 for the FY27 multiple park roofing
projects as identified.
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
1.Summary
The Parks asset management Plan has identified roof assets past their useful life cycle,
have been identified for replacement, inspected and forecasted in the FY27 CIP program.
We are asking for approval to proceed with project expenditure prior to 10/1/26 to schedule
construction vendor and address ongoing maintenance issues on the roof systems as
soon as possible
2. Scope
a.Buhl Estate Flat Roof Replacement – Replace approximately 2300 square foot roof with
new 60 mil membrane. Replace metal gauge edging and counter flashing. Replace
insulation decking as required.
b.White Lake Oaks Event Center Flat Roof Replacement – Replace approximately 4500
square feet of Flat and shingle roof at event center. Replace insulation decking as
required.
c.Sheriff’s Office Roof Replacement – Replace approximately 3200 square feet parks
sheriff’s office roof at Park Administration complex. Replace insulation decking as
required.
3.Project Budget
Funding Available:
ADD Oaks Buhl Estate – Flat Roof $80,000
ADM – Parks Sheriff’s Office $60,000
WLG – Event Center Flat Roof $80,000
Total Funding: $220,000
ADD Oaks Buhl Estate – Flat roof $69,500
ADM – Parks Sheriff’s Office $48,465
WLG – Event Center Flat Roof $91,500
Project Contingency: $10,500
Total Cost: $220,000
RETURN TO AGENDA
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 3
Department: Development & Engineering
From: Mark Adams Jr., Project Manager
Subject: Southfield Oaks Phase II
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Move to approve an expenditure Not to Exceed $1,680,000 to upscale and strengthen current
construction efforts at Southfield Oaks.
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
1.Summary
Southfield Oaks, created from a portion of the former Beech Woods Golf Course, is one of six
priority sites included in the County's ARPA-funded Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor
Recreation Investment Plan, an initiative focused on revitalizing underutilized public spaces
throughout Southern Oakland County.
Following a 12-month ecological restoration period that included invasive species treatment,
cover crop seeding, and winter mowing; construction efforts began this past May on a new
aggregate trail as well as the excavation and restoration of the River Rouge floodplain. These
improvements primarily address longstanding flooding issues, the same problem that
ultimately led to the closure of the golf course.
Initial Project Budget: ARPA: $1,500,000. SOGL: 300,000 OCPR: $500,000.
Total: $2,300,000
While the floodplain work is critical for the overall usability of the site, Parks and Recreation
leadership has held longstanding concerns about the project's final outcome, particularly
whether it will deliver the same level of cultural impact and community enhancement as the
County's other ARPA-funded projects, such as Oak Park Woods, Pontiac Oaks, and Red
Oaks Park.
To elevate the project, Parks Engineering and Development has spearheaded development
on a two-part concept that introduces distinctive features and dynamic amenities that will
position Southfield Oaks to become one of Oakland County Parks and Recreation's signature
destinations.
By strengthening the ecological improvements already underway, the site has the potential to
become a popular choice for school field trips and summer camps, offering guided tours and
hands-on learning experiences focused on ecological stewardship, habitat restoration, and
environmental conservation.
RETURN TO AGENDA
To implement these additional scope items, staff is requesting early approval of the use of the
Mission 26 Strategic Projects funding within the upcoming FY27 Capital Improvement
Program, which starts October 1, 2026.
2. Scope
Additional funding would allow the following improvements at Southfield Oaks:
a. Educational Nature Play Pockets and “Beech” Brook
i. Nature-based, educational play equipment, signage and plantings
ii. Sculptural art pockets
iii. Wetland boardwalks
iv. Topographic art mounds
v. Seasonal ephemeral art
vi. Outdoor classroom space
vii. Additional seating
viii. Remediation of the existing algae-afflicted pond
ix. Fishing opportunities at the existing pond
x. Creation of a man-made stream for water-based play and additional
educational
xi. Aquatic garden
3. Project Budget
a. FY 2027 Mission 26 Strategic Projects Fund: $4,945,000
b. Recommended total amount
i. Parks Engineering and Development recommends moving forward with
the following amount:
1. Nature Play Pockets and Beech Brook $1,500,000
2. Contingency (12%) $180,000
3. Total Project Cost $1,680,000
ATTACHMENTS
1. Attachment A – Southfield Oaks Phase 2 Conceptual Presentation
SOUTHFIELD OAKS PARK
Concept Design
Creating a beloved gathering and learning space
focused around the unique natural elements of
Southfield Oaks
1 2 3
Developing a strong
network of trails and
educational &
interactive nature
elements
Enhancing
topography and
integrating art
Designing with the
natural elements to
increase park’s
interest
Revised
Entry with
view from
playground
Lowered barrier
to entry at the
pond
Boardwalk with closer
view to Rouge River
Overlook seating
with view to river
Improve
intersection
to be
gathering
space / art
interest
Expanded
wetland
boardwalk
Storage
container for
educational
programming
Stairway
connection
Enhanced Trails with Educational Nature Play and Mounds
Trail head from
Beech Rd.
Linear mounds made with
on-site fill to create
topographic interest
Largest mound to
create expansive view
to the south
Adjust trail
alignment
Enhance Trails, Unique Seating, and Educational Nature Play
*This image was made using AI
Educational Nature
Play
*This image was made using AI
Expanded Wetland
Boardwalk
*This image was made using AI
Mounding & Art
*This image was made using AI
Mounding and Art
*This image was made using AI
Potential Art Placement
Viewshed
from existing
playground
More Art
*This image was made using AI
Beech Brook
Meandering brook that
drains to pond (requires
pumping water from pond
to brook outlet and could
also utilize stormwater
from developed
park/parking lots)
Boardwalk
overlooking the
pond
Potential
nature-based
water play
area
Beech Brook
Beech Brook
*This image was made using AI
Potential Programming
•Outdoor classroom for schools and summer camps
•Gathering space for community to use for various programming
•Outdoor exercising like yoga, tai chi, nature walks, etc.
•Boy Scouts and Wilderness Survival programming
•Guided naturalist tours and volunteer ecological restoration days
•Reservable event space for organized gatherings
•Rouge River education and data collection, collaborating with schools and colleges
•Four season interest activities
Potential Programming
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 4
Department: Administration
From: Simon Rivers, Supervisor of Planning
Subject: 2026 Strategic Partnership Grant – Charter Township of Royal Oak
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 Picnic Pavilion at
Civic Center Park project, with a Strategic Partnership Grant in the amount of $30,000.
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 picnic pavilion at Civic Center
Park. The proposed funding would support 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 previously consists primarily of mowed
open space with amenities that are deteriorated and not ADA-compliant. The park is currently
undergoing a complete transformation. 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.
Project Funding and Alignment
The Township is requesting a $30,000 Strategic Partnership Grant from OCPR to match a
$999,000 Michigan Spark Grant awarded by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources
(MDNR) through funding provided by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), $30,000 in funding
from Royal Oak Township’s general fund, and a $5,000 Oakland County Board of Commissioners
Special Projects grant.
The project scope is a comprehensive park renovation scheduled for completion in September
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
RETURN TO AGENDA
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 help create the Township’s first modern, fully accessible park facility. The installation of
pavilions, alongside the new playground, restrooms, 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 Recreation for All
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 (Picnic Pavilion at
Civic Center Park)
Page 1 of 5
COUNTY OF OAKLAND—PARK DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT
CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF ROYAL OAK – CIVIC CENTER PARK REDEVELOPMENT
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, One Public Works Drive, Building 95 West, Waterford, MI 48328 (“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 Redevelopment
Grant Amount (“Grant Amount”): Thirty Thousand Dollars ($30,000)
Grantee Match Amount (“Match Amount”): One Million Two Hundred Eighty Four Thousand
Dollars ($1,284,000)
Total Project Amount: One Million Three Hundred Fourteen Thousand Dollars ($1,314,000)
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:
Date Name: Donna Squalls, Township Supervisor
Charter Township of Royal Oak
County of Oakland:
Name: David T. Woodward, Chairperson Date
Oakland County Board of Commissioners
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
Planning & Resource Development Unit of the OCPRC. 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
2.1.4. Telephone Number: 248-542-754
2.1.5. E-Mail Address: supervisor@royaloaktwp.com
2.2. OCPRC Contact
Project/Project Period.
“Project Period”
Grantee Reporting Requirements:
Payments/Advances/Project Closeout.
Page 3 of 5
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
Page 4 of 5
regulations when completing Project activities.
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
Page 5 of 6
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.
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 b e 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,
Page 6 of 6
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
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 2
July 9, 2026
Grantee Information
Item Grantee Information
Project Title: Civic Center Park Redevelopment Project
Oakland County City, Village or
Township Name:
Royal Oak Township
Name of Primary Grant Contact: Donna Squalls, Township Supervisor
Address: 21131 Garden Ln 2nd Floor, 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
Oakland County Board of Commissioners
Financial Information
Project Funding
Requested Grant Amount: $30,000
Match Amount: $1,284,000
Total Project Funding (Requested grant amount + total match amount): $1,314,000
Project Schedule
Anticipated Start Date: 7/1/2026
Anticipated Completion Date: 9/30/2026
Project Description
Need Statement
What is the reason for doing this project? Answer may incorporate documented community and
recreational needs, public engagement, con diti on 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 a brand-new picnic pavilion that will allow
Royal Oak Township residents to gather and recreate outdoors. 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 improvements at Civic Center Park as one of their most important
priorities.
Grant Project Description Page 2 of 2
July 9, 2026
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?
The scope includes installing a picnic pavilion, including all related site improvements and amenities. This work
includes all site preparation, building foundation, site grading and paving, and pathway connecting the pavilion
to the park walking loop. This picnic pavilion 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 pavilion 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 pavilion, Civic
Center Park will allow for recreational activation by users of all ages and abilities.
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 t en 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:
Simon Rivers
Supervisor of Planning
(248) 421-9033
riverss@oakgov.com
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 5
Department: Administration
From: Simon Rivers, Supervisor of Planning
Subject: 2026 Strategic Partnership Grant – Water Resources Commissioner/City of
Pontiac
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Move to authorize and recommend to the Board of Commissioners approval of the Park
Development Grant Agreement with the Joseph Jones Drain Drainage District for the Site
Amenities at Oakland Park project, with a Strategic Partnership Grant in the amount of $28,582.
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
Oakland County Water Resources staff approached Oakland County Parks and Recreation
(OCPR) regarding potential grant funding assistance for the installation of several site amenities
at Oakland Park in the City of Pontiac. The proposed funding would support the park’s newly
installed stormwater management infrastructure.
The Joseph Jones Drain is a Chapter 20 drain that is funded by the City of Pontiac, a significantly
overburdened community. In 2024, the Joseph Jones Drain Drainage District received a no-match
Clean Water State Revolving Fund grant to construct a native vegetated wetland that will collect
and treat stormwater runoff from the adjacent residential streets and buildings at Oakland Park in
the City of Pontiac. Creating safe and accessible outdoor spaces 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.
Project Funding and Alignment
Water Resources is requesting a $28,582 Strategic Partnership Grant from OCPR to match a
$501,418 Clean Water State Revolving Fund grant. The Clean Water State Revolving Fund Grant
supports the construction of a native vegetated wetland scheduled for completion in August 2026.
The project has planted native trees and shrubs, treated nearby invasive buckthorn, and installed
signage to educate residents about the benefits of native plants and the 9,100-sf constructed
stormwater wetland improvement.
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 Oakland Park project represents a strategic investment in equitable access to recreation and
public health in one of Oakland County’s most underserved communities. The City of Pontiac has
limited parkland and resources, and this project will help enhance a newly redeveloped park. The
RETURN TO AGENDA
installation of picnic tables, benches, bike racks, and bike repair stations alongside the newly
constructed wetland will transform Oakland Park into a welcoming community hub for all ages
and abilities.
This partnership exemplifies the goals of Mission 26, particularly the Learning and Environmental
Leadership pillar, by positioning the park as hands-on learning environments that build
environmental literacy and stewardship. 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 – Joseph Jones Drain Drainage District (Site
Amenities at Oakland Park)
Page 1 of 5
COUNTY OF OAKLAND—PARK DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT
JOSEPH JONES DRAIN DRAINAGE DISTRICT – OAKLAND PARK STORMWATER
IMPROVEMENTS
This Agreement is between the County of Oakland, by and through, its statutory agent, the
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission (“OCPRC”) and the Joseph Jones Drain
Drainage District, One Public Works Drive, Building 95 West, Waterford, MI 48328 (“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”): Oakland Park Stormwater Improvements
Grant Amount (“Grant Amount”): Twenty Eight Thousand Five Hundred Eighty Two Dollars
($28,582)
Grantee Match Amount (“Match Amount”): Five Hundred One Thousand Four Hundred
Eighteen Dollars ($501,418)
Total Project Amount: Five Hundred Thirty Thousand Dollars ($530,000)
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: Jim Nash, Chairperson Date
Joseph Jones Drain Drainage District
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
Planning & Resource Development Unit of the OCPRC. 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: Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner
2.1.2. Name/Title: Danielle Devlin, OC WRC Project Manager
2.1.3. Address: One Public Works Drive, Building 95 West, Waterford, MI 48328
2.1.4. Telephone Number: 248-882-8693
2.1.5. E-Mail Address: devlind@oakgov.com
2.2. OCPRC Contact
2.2.1. Name/Title: Simon Rivers, Supervisor of Planning
2.2.2. Address: 2800 Watkins Lake Road, Waterford, MI 48328
2.2.3. Telephone Number: 248-421-9033
2.2.4. E-Mail Address: riverss@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 Planning & Resource Development 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 5
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
Page 4 of 5
regulations when completing Project activities.
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
Page 5 of 6
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.
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 b e 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,
Page 6 of 6
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
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 3
June 24, 2026
Grantee Information
Item Grantee Information
Project Title: Oakland Park Stormwater Improvements
Oakland County City, Village or
Township Name:
Joseph Jones Drain Drainage District
Name of Primary Grant Contact: James Nash
Address: One Public Works Drive, Building 95 West, Waterford, MI, 48328
Primary Contact Phone: (248) 842-6185
Primary Contact Email Address: nashj@oakgov.com
Please list any project partners: City of Pontiac
Financial Information
Project Funding
Requested Grant Amount: $28,582
Match Amount: $501,418
Total Project Funding (Requested grant amount + total match amount): $530,000
Project Schedule
Anticipated Start Date: 4/1/2026
Anticipated Completion Date: 8/1/2026
Project Description
Need Statement
What is the reason for doing this project? Answer may incorporate documented community and
recreational needs, public engagement, con diti on 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?
The Joseph Jones Drain is a Chapter 20 drain that is funded 100% by the City of Pontiac, a significantly
overburdened community. In 2024, the Joseph Jones Drain Drainage District received a no-match Clean Water
State Revolving Fund grant to construct a nat ive vegetated wetland that will collect and treat stormwater runoff
from the adjacent residential streets and buildings at Oakland Park in the City of Pontiac. Partnering with the
city, WRC has been overseeing the construction of the project that will be substantially complete by May 31,
2026. The project has planted native trees and shrubs, treated nearby invasive buckthorn, and installed signage
to educate residents about the benefits of native plants and the 9,100 sf constructed stormwater wetland
improvement. With the best management practice being constructed in a public park, the project is utilizing the
opportunity to promote and educate the residents and visitors of Pontiac to understand its purpose and benefits
with the addition of several site amenities. The amenities include four benches, two picnic tables, two bike racks
and one bike repair station. Unfortunately, the amenities will not be reimbursable by the grant but are an
Grant Project Description Page 2 of 3
June 24, 2026
important addition to support outreach goals. In an effort to relieve the City of Pontiac of the liability of the
costs, we are seeking grant funding from Oakland County Parks to cover 100% of the costs for the installed
amenities. The picnic tables provide an opportunity to allow small outdoor classroom events to educate
students and adults on the function and benefits of the stormwater management practice. The benches provide
encouragement and opportunity for visitors to sit and enjoy the wetland while being educated on the resource.
The bicycle rack is being located near the stormwater management practice to reduce maintenance impacts
resulting from bicycles. Currently, bicycle impacts can be seen with riders not having a place to store their
bicycles, so they are riding their bikes through the park impacting vegetation and causing erosion. In addition,
the bicycle racks help support local outreach efforts to bring residents and students to the stormwater
management practice for structured green infrastructure classroom activities led by the city, county, and/or
local non-governmental organizations. The bicycle repair station supports the visitors to the stormwater
management practice through the outreach and educational opportunities p rovided by the city, county, and/or
local non-governmental organizations. The current City of Pontiac Parks and Recreation Master Plan identifies
flooding within Oakland Park. The above-described project will address these flooding concerns. As an asset of
the Joseph Jones Drain, the constructed wetland will be maintained by WRC. In addition, the amenities being
requested through this grant application are supported by the needs expressed during the public engagement
process for the master plan and will be maintained by the City of Pontiac Parks and Recreation Department.
Finally, the project supports SEMCOG’s Southeast Michigan’s Strategic Framework for Growing our Resilience,
Equity, and Economy with Nature (GREEN). This initiative aims to address some of the region’s most pressing
challenges – managing floods, fostering climate resilience, improving community health, protecting our natural
assets, all while creating vibrant places where people want to live and where businesses will thrive. It is driven
by the goal to ensure that public benefits of green infrastructure are resilient, equitable, and improve the quality
of life in Southeast Michigan communities. The plan recommends local government to seek partnerships and
coordinate green infrastructure development across departments, communities, and sectors to improve
efficiency and maximize impacts.
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?
Per the City of Pontiac Parks and Recreation Master Plan, Oakland Park is mostly accessible to people with a
broad range of physical disabilities. Most of the parking and pathways are paved, some of the facilities such as
play equipment or picnic areas are accessible but may not be completely barrier-free.The bike racks and bike
repair station are located on a newly installed concrete pad alongside the adjacent Hammond Street and
flagstone maintenance path into the basin. The benches are located along the p erimeter of the wetland basin,
overlooking the native plantings, among newly planted trees enhancing the park.
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 City of Pontiac Parks and Recreation Master Plan classifies Oakland Park as an “active recreation multi-use
park.” With the recently opened Recreation Center sited within blocks of the project, the City is creating a
network of greater access opportunities for its residents and visitors. Nearing substantial completion, the
Grant Project Description Page 3 of 3
June 24, 2026
project has planted native trees and shrubs, treated nearby invasive buckthorn, and installed signage to educate
residents about the benefits of native plants and the 9,100 sf constructed stormwater wetland improvement.
The requested funding for the site furnishings will provide outreach opportunities regarding the importance and
benefits of green infrastructure and native plantings. The amenities encourage residents and visitors to linger
and enjoy the beauty of the native plantings which include trees, shrubs, perennial grasses and wildflowers,
both in the wetland basin and upland edge. Along with treating the nonpoint source pollution carried in the
stormwater runoff, the native plantings will attract pollinators and other wildlife and will be a major com munity
asset.
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 t en 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:
Simon Rivers
Supervisor of Planning
(248) 421-9033
riverss@oakgov.com
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 6
Department: Administration
From: Simon Rivers, Supervisor of Planning
Subject: 2026 Strategic Partnership Grant – City of Hazel Park
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Move to authorize and recommend to the Board of Commissioners approval of the Park
Development Grant Agreement with the City of Hazel Park for the Viking Strong 55+ Fitness
Program at Hazel Park Recreation Center project, with a Strategic Partnership Grant in the
amount of $82,307.
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
Hazel Park staff approached Oakland County Parks and Recreation (OCPR) regarding potential
grant funding assistance for the creation of a fitness program and studio. The proposed funding
would support the city’s large population of adults 55 years and older.
The City of Hazel Park’s Recreation Center offers diverse programming for a wide range of
interests, including sports leagues, arts programs, children’s programs, and active adults
programs. These programs are planned primarily for residents in Hazel Park and Ferndale but
are available for all who are interested. The Viking Strong 55+ program will expand on the current
offerings to include strength training and weightlifting. Creating safe and accessible spaces where
residents can engage in physical activity and gather as a community aligns directly with OCPR’s
mission to promote health, wellness, and equitable access to recreation.
Project Funding and Alignment
Hazel Park is requesting a $82,307 Strategic Partnership Grant from OCPR to match $15,000 in
funding from the City’s General Fund.
The Viking Strong 55+ Program will support Hazel Park’s conversion of a storage room into a
fitness studio to support the health and well-being of Hazel Park’s active adult population.
Additionally, Hazel Park has developed programs for residents 55 years and older, including yoga
and stretching classes, card games, dance classes, bingo, and ice cream socials.
Project Significance
The Viking Strong 55+ Program project represents a strategic investment in equitable access to
recreational facilities and public health in one of Oakland County’s most underserved
communities. Hazel Park has limited resources, and this project will help enhance facilities and
programming for an important demographic within the city.
The project scope includes 1) the purchase of treadmills, dumbbells, stationary bikes, and other
exercise equipment and materials, and 2) the delivery and installation of a new storage shed. The
RETURN TO AGENDA
installation of exercise equipment and a storage shed, alongside the conversion of the storage
room into a fitness studio will transform this space into a welcoming community hub for active
adults across Hazel Park and Ferndale.
This partnership exemplifies the goals of Mission 26, particularly the Activation & Health pillar, 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 – City of Hazel Park (Viking Strong 55+ Fitness
Program at Hazel Park Recreation Center)
Page 1 of 5
COUNTY OF OAKLAND—PARK DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT
CITY OF HAZEL PARK – FITNESS PROGRAM
This Agreement is between the County of Oakland, by and through, its statutory agent, the
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission (“OCPRC”) and the City of Hazel Park, 111
East Nine Mile Road, Hazel Park, MI 48030 (“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”): Hazel Park Fitness Program
Grant Amount (“Grant Amount”): Eighty Two Thousand Three Hundred Seven Dollars
($82,307)
Grantee Match Amount (“Match Amount”): Fifteen Thousand Dollars ($15,000)
Total Project Amount: Ninety Seven Thousand Three Hundred Seven Dollars ($97,307)
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: Edward Klobucher, City Manager Date
City of Hazel Park
Date Name: Lisa K. Mayo, City Clerk
City of Hazel Park
County of Oakland:
Name: David T. Woodward, Chairperson Date
Oakland County Board of Commissioners
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
Planning & Resource Development Unit of the OCPRC. 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: City of Hazel Park
2.1.2. Name/Title: Amanda Taylor, Recreation Director
2.1.3. Address: 111 East Nine Mile Road, Hazel Park, MI 48030
2.1.4. Telephone Number: (248) 547-5535
2.1.5. E-Mail Address: ataylor@hazelpark.org
2.2. OCPRC Contact
2.2.1. Name/Title: Simon Rivers, Supervisor of Planning
2.2.2. Address: 2800 Watkins Lake Road, Waterford, MI 48328
2.2.3. Telephone Number: 248-421-9033
2.2.4. E-Mail Address: riverss@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 Planning & Resource Development 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 5
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
Page 4 of 5
regulations when completing Project activities.
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
Page 5 of 6
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.
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 b e 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,
Page 6 of 6
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
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 2
July 9, 2026
Grantee Information
Item Grantee Information
Project Title: Viking Strong 55+ Program
Oakland County City, Village or
Township Name:
City of Hazel Park
Name of Primary Grant Contact: Amanda Taylor, Recreation Director
Address: 111 East Nine Mile Road, Hazel Park, MI 48030
Primary Contact Phone: (248) 547-5535
Primary Contact Email Address: ataylor@hazelpark.org
Please list any project partners: Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Financial Information
Project Funding
Requested Grant Amount: $82,307
Match Amount: $15,000
Total Project Funding (Requested grant amount + total match amount): $97,307
Project Schedule
Anticipated Start Date: 9/1/2026
Anticipated Completion Date: 12/31/2026
Project Description
Need Statement
What is the reason for doing this project? Answer may incorporate documented community and
recreational needs, public engagement, con diti on 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?
The City of Hazel Park is proposing the Viking Strong 55+ program, a strength and fitness program designed for
adults aged 55 and older. It will be housed at the Hazel Park Recreation Center in a 720 square foot room (24’ x
30’). The equipment is selected for ease of use and to build functional strength for older adults, suitable for both
individual workouts and guided instruction. The layout requires an estimated 600 to 700 square feet. This grant
will provide a new storage shed and exercise equipment that will make a meaningful difference for Hazel Park’s
senior residents. The fitness equipment and storage shed will give the Recreation Center what it needs to run
this program well for years to come.
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 2 of 2
July 9, 2026
The scope includes converting the current supply room at the Hazel Park Recreation Center into a dedicated
weight training studio, constructing and outfitting a space for the Viking Strong 55+ Program. This includes a
new storage shed, new mat flooring, full-length wall mirror, and exercise equipment such as free weights,
resistance bands, kettlebells, benches, and other equipment appropriate for older adults.
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?
Hazel Park is home to a large community of older adults, nearly 25% of whom are age 55 and over. As people
live longer, supporting their ability to remain active, strong, and independent becomes a priority. Research
shows that regular strength training: 1) helps prevent falls by improving balance and coordination, 2) increases
bone density and reduces risk of osteoporosis, 3) enhances mood and cognitive function, 4) reduces chronic pain
and supports joint health, 5) improves daily mobility and quality of life. Despite these benefits, many residents
face significant barriers to participating in strength training, including lack of access to equipment, fear of injury,
limited knowledge, and affordability. Viking Strong 55+ will remove those barriers, at no cost to residents, by
providing a welcoming, supervised, and personalized path into weight training. This collaboration would not only
expand access to wellness programming in the underserved southern region of the county but also increase
Oakland County Parks’ visibility and impact in Hazel Park and surrounding communities.
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 t en 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:
Simon Rivers
Supervisor of Planning
(248) 421-9033
riverss@oakgov.com
Oakland Couny Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 7
Department: Park Operations
From: Thomas Hughes, Chief of Park Operations and Maintenance – North District
Subject: FY2026 Capital Equipment Budget Amendment
MOTION
Move to approve the requested amendments to the FY2026 Capital Equipment Budget.
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
Staff is requesting approval to amend the FY2026 Capital Equipment Budget to allow for the
purchase of five (5) pieces of equipment for Groveland Oaks, Independence Oaks, Recreation
Programs and Services, and Springfield Oaks. These additions are necessary to improve
operational efficiency, maintain service levels, and provide access and recreational experiences.
An updated FY2026 Capital Equipment Budget with equipment requests highlighted is provided.
The total amount for the requested equipment is $98.000, with the purchases funded from the
FY2026 Capital Equipment budget remaining balance. The FY2026 Capital Equipment Budget
will remain unchanged at $4,500,000.
Requested Equipment:
Independence Oaks
1.Utility Vehicle w/ Tracks – A utility vehicle is requested to replace an existing UTV that is
used for winter trail grooming. The existing UTV is in need of repair and parts are
becoming difficult to acquire. It is still operational and would be used as a backup unit.
Budget Amount: $45,000
2.Mower Attachment – A Sickle Bar Mower attachment is being requested for trail
maintenance at Independence Oaks. The attachment will be used on the new Bobcat
Toolcat for brush trimming along the trails at Independence Oaks and Orion Oaks.
Budget Amount: $12,000
Groveland Oaks
1.Zero Turn Mower – A Zero Turn Mower is requested to replace an existing mower that
not operational and in need of repair. The repair of the mower is not recommended due
to the cost for the age of the equipment and hours of operational use.
Budget Amount: $18,000
Recreation, Programs, and Services
1.Enclosed Trailer – An Enclosed Trailer is needed for the transportation of recreation
equipment. An existing trailer will be replaced with a larger trailer that can hold more
RETURN TO AGENDA
equipment. The existing trailer is almost 30 years old and has excess wear and tear along
with mold and water damage from transporting water inflatables for many years.
Budget Amount: $15,000
Springfield Oaks
1. Floor Cleaning Machine – A floor cleaning machine is requested to replace an existing
cleaner that is not functioning properly Repairs to the cleaner is not recommended due
to the age of the equipment and hours of operational use. The cleaner is needed for the
Event Center and the large amount of hard surface flooring that needs to be cleaned
after rentals.
Budget Amount: $8,000
ATTACHMENTS
1. FY2026 Capital Equipment Budget with Proposed Equipment Highlighted
Park/Department Program Proposed Equipment Type Budgeted Amount Actual Amount
Addison Oaks ADD710 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$ 11,949.05$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$ 11,949.05$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Rokon Trail Grooming Motor Bike Grounds Equipment 13,000.00$ 13,000.00$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Brushcat Rotary Cutter Attachment Mower 9,000.00$ 7,197.20$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Articulating Cutting Head Attachment Mower 25,000.00$ 16,000.00$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$ 25,000.00$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Z-Turn Mower Mower 18,000.00$ 18,000.00$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Turbine Blower Grounds Equipment 11,000.00$ 11,574.42$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Tractor Tractor 95,000.00$ 82,529.79$
Addison Oaks ADD710 Adult Handcycle Adaptive Equipment 5,951.00$ 5,951.00$
Addison Oaks ADD710 3 Wheel Off Road Wheel Chair Adaptive Equipment 5,425.00$ 5,425.00$
Admin ADM000 6-person Shuttle Cart Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$ 17,238.00$
Catalpa Oaks CAT700 Z-Turn Mower Mower 18,000.00$ 16,497.00$
Catalpa Oaks CAT700 Z-Turn Mower Mower 18,000.00$ 16,497.00$
Facilities Maintenance FM700 Towable Generator Grounds Equipment 40,000.00$ 42,448.02$
Facilities Maintenance FM700 Track Lift Grounds Equipment 162,000.00$ 161,358.00$
Facilities Maintenance FM700 Equipment Trailer Trailer 9,000.00$ 8,750.00$
Facilities Maintenance FM700 Fuel Trailer Trailer 28,000.00$
Facilities Maintenance FM700 Air Compressor Grounds Equipment 35,000.00$ 35,000.00$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Topdressor Grounds Equipment 30,000.00$ 23,423.40$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Aerifier Grounds Equipment 35,000.00$ 37,634.69$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Toolcat w Accessories Tractor 120,000.00$ 81,038.18$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Greens Mower Mower 45,000.00$ 44,626.14$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Greens Mower Mower 45,000.00$ 44,626.14$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Greens Mower Mower 45,000.00$ 44,626.14$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Non-Vibratory Rollers Grounds Equipment 6,455.00$ 6,455.00$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Mower Accessories Grounds Equipment 10,884.92$ 10,884.92$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Surrounds Mower Mower 46,202.52$ 46,202.52$
Glen Oaks GLG010 Greens Brush Grounds Equipment 8,000.00$ 8,422.70$
Groveland Oaks GRV710 Large Area Rough Mower Mower 95,000.00$ 89,776.44$
Groveland Oaks GRV710 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$ 25,492.66$
Groveland Oaks GRV710 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$ 25,492.66$
Groveland Oaks GRV710 Loader with Backhoe Tractor 95,000.00$ 89,479.48$
Groveland Oaks GRV710 Z-Turn Mower Mower 18,000.00$ 18,000.00$
Groveland Oaks GRV710 Turbine Blower Grounds Equipment 11,000.00$ 11,880.00$
Groveland Oaks GRV710 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$ 11,143.15$
Groveland Oaks GRV710 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$ 11,143.15$
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS
FY2026 Capital Equipment Amended 7/15/2026
Groveland Oaks GRV710 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$ 12,897.95$
Groveland Oaks GRV710 3 Wheel Off Road Wheel Chair Adaptive Equipment 5,425.00$ 5,425.00$
Holly Oaks HRV700 Bulldozer Tractor 200,000.00$ 217,089.62$
Holly Oaks HRV700 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 22,000.00$ 32,774.93$
Holly Oaks HRV700 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 22,000.00$ 29,303.93$
Holly Oaks HRV700 Fuel Cube Grounds Equipment 6,711.67$ 6,711.67$
Independence Oaks IND700 Turbine Blower Grounds Equipment 15,000.00$ 11,880.00$
Independence Oaks IND700 Turbine Blower Grounds Equipment 11,000.00$ 11,880.00$
Independence Oaks IND700 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 15,000.00$ 11,146.55$
Independence Oaks IND700 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$ 11,146.55$
Independence Oaks IND700 Bobcat Toolcat Tractor 100,000.00$ 93,815.09$
Independence Oaks IND700 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$ 27,044.40$
Independence Oaks IND700 Sickle Bar Attachment 12,000.00$ 12,000.00$
Independence Oaks IND700 Utility Vehicle - Heavy Duty Utility Vehicle 45,000.00$ 45,000.00$
Independence Oaks IND700 Utility Vehicle - Heavy Duty Utility Vehicle 50,000.00$ 49,349.47$
Independence Oaks IND700 4x4 ATV Utility Vehicle 30,000.00$ 25,492.66$
Independence Oaks IND700 4x4 ATV Utility Vehicle 25,492.66$ 25,492.66$
Independence Oaks IND700 Deck Over Trailer Trailer 13,500.00$ 13,500.00$
Independence Oaks IND700 Rescue Boat Grounds Equipment 30,000.00$ 37,562.50$
Independence Oaks IND700 Brine Sprayer Grounds Equipment 9,995.58$ 9,995.58$
Independence Oaks IND700 3 Wheel Off Road Wheel Chair Adaptive Equipment 5,425.00$ 6,000.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$ 12,477.05$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$ 12,477.05$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$ 12,477.05$
Lyon Oaks LYP700 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$ 14,421.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP700 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$ 14,421.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP700 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$ 14,421.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Greens Roller Grounds Equipment 25,000.00$ 27,998.75$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Turbine Blower Grounds Equipment 11,000.00$ 11,022.18$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Utility Vehicle - Heavy Duty Utility Vehicle 45,000.00$ 38,386.14$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$ 14,421.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Fairway Mower Mower 85,000.00$ 85,648.72$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Surrounds Mower Mower 45,000.00$ 46,202.52$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Surrounds Mower Mower 45,000.00$ 46,202.52$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Aerifier Grounds Equipment 35,000.00$ 39,174.41$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Verticut Units Grounds Equipment 15,656.00$ 15,565.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Z-Turn Mower Mower 18,000.00$ 13,640.00$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Bunker Rake Grounds Equipment 25,000.00$ 28,682.94$
Lyon Oaks LYP010 Topdressor Grounds Equipment 25,000.00$ 23,926.41$
Natural Resources NR431 Track Loader Tractor 90,000.00$ 135,702.20$
Natural Resources NR431 Fecon Bullhead 74SS Mulcher Mower 40,000.00$ 40,300.00$
Natural Resources NR431 Water Quality Sensor (4)Grounds Equipment 80,000.00$ 53,155.08$
Natural Resources NR431 Mini Skid Brush Cutter Grounds Equipment 8,000.00$ 7,405.00$
Natural Resources NR431 4x4 Side by Side Utility Vehicle 30,000.00$ 26,794.19$
Natural Resources NR431 Heavy duty High Flow brush cutter Mower 15,000.00$ 16,600.00$
Natural Resources NR431 Skid Steer Grounds Equipment 80,000.00$ 68,668.00$
Natural Resources NR431 Dump Trailer Trailer 10,000.00$ 10,250.00$
Natural Resources NR431 Portable self driven tracked boom lift Grounds Equipment 160,000.00$ 140,343.00$
Orion Oaks ORN700 Fuel Tank Grounds Equipment 8,000.00$ 7,998.35$
Orion Oaks ORN700 Z-Turn Mower Mower 16,000.00$ 15,985.00$
Recreation REC020 Climbing Tower Recreation Equipment 45,000.00$ 40,335.00$
Recreation REC020 Towable Light Tower Recreation Equipment 8,000.00$ 8,000.00$
Recreation REC020 Towable Light Tower Recreation Equipment 8,000.00$ 8,000.00$
Recreation REC020 Cargo Trailer Trailer 18,000.00$ 12,681.20$
Recreation REC020 Cargo Trailer Trailer 15,000.00$ 15,000.00$
Recreation REC020 Cargo Trailer Trailer 18,000.00$ 12,681.20$
Recreation REC020 Inflatable Obstacle Course Recreation Equipment 12,000.00$ 12,000.00$
Recreation REC020 Inflatable Obstacle Course Recreation Equipment 12,000.00$ 14,500.00$
Recreation REC020 MOBILE STAGE 2 Recreation Equipment 165,000.00$ 163,936.00$
Red Oaks RDP010 Sprayer Grounds Equipment 60,000.00$ 87,502.23$
Red Oaks RDP010 Surrounds Mower Mower 45,885.06$ 45,885.06$
Red Oaks RDP010 Triplex Roller Kit Grounds Equipment 10,000.00$ 10,000.00$
Red Oaks RDP700 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$ 25,769.00$
Red Oaks RDP700 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 25,000.00$ 25,769.00$
Red Oaks RDP700 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$ 15,243.00$
Red Oaks RDP700 Z-Turn Mower Mower 18,000.00$ 18,000.00$
Red Oaks RDP700 200 Gallon Electric Brine Sprayer Grounds Equipment 7,000.00$ 7,000.00$
Red Oaks RDP700 6'6" Compact Vehicle Snow Plow Grounds Equipment 6,000.00$ 6,000.00$
Red Oaks RDP700 Pool Vacuum Grounds Equipment 7,000.00$ 5,025.71$
Red Oaks RDP700 Ventrac Boom Mower Attachment Mower 20,000.00$ 20,135.28$
Rose Oaks RSE700 Ventrac w/ Attachments Tractor 85,000.00$ 84,665.68$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$ 12,796.68$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$ 12,796.68$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$ 12,796.68$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$ 12,796.68$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Agrimetal Greens Roller Grounds Equipment 25,000.00$ 17,664.66$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Towable Generator Grounds Equipment 8,000.00$ 42,448.02$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Greens Mower Mower 45,000.00$ 44,626.14$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Surrounds Mower Mower 45,000.00$ 46,413.12$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Bunker Rake Grounds Equipment 25,000.00$ 28,682.94$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Turbine Blower Grounds Equipment 12,000.00$ 11,022.18$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Utility Vehicle - Heavy Duty Utility Vehicle 50,000.00$ 29,976.69$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Utility Vehicle - Heavy Duty Utility Vehicle 30,000.00$ 29,976.69$
Springfield Oaks SPR010 Turfline Greens Care Grounds Equipment 19,000.00$ 18,515.00$
Springfield Oaks SPR700 Floor Cleaning Machine Buikding Equipment 8,000.00$ 8,000.00$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 Toolcat Tractor 90,000.00$ 100,589.90$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 Z-Turn Mower Mower 16,000.00$ 8,771.00$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 200 Gallon Electric Brine Sprayer Grounds Equipment 7,000.00$ 7,000.00$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$ 12,078.00$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$ 12,078.00$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 Utility Vehicle - Medium Duty Utility Vehicle 22,000.00$ 25,093.00$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 Bed Mounted Salt Spreader Grounds Equipment 10,000.00$ 20,741.00$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 Angle Broom Attachment Grounds Equipment 10,000.00$ 7,416.32$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 Flat Bed Trailer Trailer 10,000.00$ 7,115.00$
Waterford Oaks WTR700 Dump Trailer Trailer 15,000.00$ 11,215.00$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Utility Vehicle - Heavy Duty Utility Vehicle 50,000.00$ 39,297.15$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$ 10,288.05$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$ 10,288.05$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Utility Vehicle 13,000.00$ 10,288.05$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Grounds Equipment 30,000.00$ 29,741.40$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Utility Vehicle - Light Duty Grounds Equipment 12,000.00$ 11,022.18$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Large Area Rough Mower Mower 85,000.00$ 93,555.54$
White Lake Oaks WLG010 Aerifier Grounds Equipment 30,000.00$ 37,737.46$
Total 4,369,009.41$ 4,274,090.64$
Budget 4,500,000.00$ 4,500,000.00$
Balance 130,990.59$ 225,909.36$
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Item Memo
Agenda #: 8
Department: Administration
From: Chris Ward, Director
Subject: Policy Updates
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Move to adopt the following Commission Policies as presented:
1.C26-001, Commission Reserved Authority and Director Delegation,
2.C26-002, Integrated Park Plans and Park Zones,
3.C23-001, Ecologically Sensitive Protection Areas;
authorization for non-substantive edits based upon Corporation Counsel recommendation; and
authorization for the Director to implement a new Commission policy codification system and
renumber policies as needed.
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
Mission 26 is moving Oakland County Parks into a new implementation era. The system is
expanding through new parks, partnerships, capital investment, activation strategies, accessibility
improvements, stewardship responsibilities, and broader expectations for countywide public
value.
That growth creates opportunity. It also requires stronger governance infrastructure.
Commission policies are the formal governance instruments the Oakland County Parks and
Recreation Commission uses to set systemwide direction, reserve major decisions to the
Commission, delegate administrative authority to the Director, and establish standards for how
the park system is planned, managed, and held accountable. They are different from staff
procedures, operating guidelines, consultant recommendations, or planning documents.
Commission policies define the governing framework within which those tools are developed and
used.
As the Commission’s work becomes more complex, the organization needs clear rules for
distinguishing between:
•Commission policy and administrative implementation;
•Planning concepts and approved commitments;
•Staff or consultant recommendations and Commission decisions;
•Park management designations and enforceable public-use restrictions; and
•Operational refinements and material changes requiring Commission action.
The proposed policy package is designed to make those distinctions clear.
This is not simply a legal or administrative exercise. It is an organizational readiness step. Clear
governance structures help the Commission focus on the decisions properly reserved to it, while
allowing the Director and staff to manage day-to-day implementation within approved law, budget,
policy, Park Rules, and delegated authority.
RETURN TO AGENDA
Summary of the Policy Package
C26-001: Commission Reserved Authority and Director Delegation
This proposed policy establishes the basic governance framework for the park system.
It clarifies that the Commission governs through policy, budget, park-system direction, and formal
action on matters reserved to it. It also clarifies that the Director manages and administers
operational, technical, planning, project-development, communications, and service-delivery work
within approved law, budget, County policy, Commission policy, Park Rules, and delegated
authority.
The policy identifies matters that require Commission action, including Commission policies, Park
Rules, annual budget recommendations, land acquisition or disposition, new park designations,
major agreements, major capital projects, funding commitments outside approved authority,
Integrated Park Plan frameworks, material changes, and public commitments that bind or
reasonably appear to bind the Commission.
The practical value is straightforward: the Commission retains control over major governance,
financial, policy, land, agreement, capital, and public-commitment decisions, while administrative
and implementation work is clearly delegated to the Director unless Commission or Board action
is required.
Adoption of this policy supersedes C09-001, Development of a Policy. That prior policy addressed
the development of Commission policies, but it no longer provides a sufficient governance
framework for the scale, complexity, and implementation needs of the current park system.
C26-002: Integrated Park Plans and Park Zones
This proposed policy establishes Integrated Park Plans as the planning and management
framework for each park.
Each park would be guided by a Commission-approved framework that includes the park’s
purpose, public-value functions, zone architecture, and major elements. Once approved, the
Director administers and implements the plan within that framework. Material changes would
return to the Commission.
This policy also clarifies that park zones are planning and management tools. They help guide
decisions, but they do not by themselves create Park Rules, authorize projects, allocate funding,
or restrict public use unless the required authority has approved those actions.
The practical value is that each park can have a clear, Commission-approved direction without
turning every operational adjustment into a Commission decision. It supports better planning,
clearer public communication, better capital alignment, and more disciplined management of
park-specific change.
C23-001: Ecologically Sensitive Protection Areas
This proposed policy replaces the prior Nature Preserve Policy with a clearer framework for
Ecologically Sensitive Protection Areas.
The policy recognizes that some areas within the park system require heightened protection
because of sensitive ecological, hydrological, habitat, wildlife, plant-community, geological,
archaeological, scenic, or cultural resources. It also clarifies that an Ecologically Sensitive
Protection Area is a planning and management designation unless a separate Park Rule, legal
restriction, easement, permit condition, or agreement creates an enforceable public-use
restriction.
The practical value is that Oakland County Parks can protect important resources while
maintaining clear authority, transparent public expectations, and appropriate distinctions between
stewardship management and enforceable restrictions.
Approval of this policy supersedes the Nature Preserve Policy approved in 2023. While that policy
was well intentioned, implementation has raised questions about whether preserve designations
apply to entire parks or specific areas, how public access and use restrictions are established,
and how infrastructure, accessibility, interpretation, trails, and other reasonable public uses
should be evaluated.
The proposed replacement policy preserves the Commission’s commitment to conservation and
stewardship while creating a clearer decision framework. Sensitive areas can receive heightened
protection where warranted, but reasonable public uses should be evaluated through an approved
park framework, resource-protection analysis, accessibility lens, and Commission-approved
decision process rather than being functionally excluded by a broad preserve label.
As a public park agency, Oakland County Parks must seek the right balance: protecting important
natural and cultural resources while making parks usable, welcoming, educational, healthy,
accessible, and valuable to residents across the county.
Why This Package Matters
The policy package supports four organizational needs.
1. Healthy Governance
The Commission should have clear authority over the decisions that shape the park
system: policy, budget, land, major agreements, major capital projects, park frameworks,
public commitments, and material changes.
At the same time, the Director needs clear administrative authority to manage staff work,
planning, operations, technical analysis, communications, and implementation within
approved direction.
This balance supports both accountability and efficiency.
2. Better Decision-Making
Mission 26 will require many decisions involving land, partnerships, capital projects, public
expectations, operating costs, stewardship obligations, accessibility, and long-term
maintenance.
These policies help ensure that decisions are made at the right level, with the right
authority, and at the right time.
They also help prevent planning documents, draft maps, consultant reports, grant
narratives, or public communications from being treated as formal Commission
commitments before the Commission has acted.
3. Transparency and Public Trust
As the system grows, residents, partners, Commissioners, and staff need clear
information about what has been approved, what is under study, what is conceptual, what
is funded, what is committed, and what remains subject to future decision-making.
The proposed policies require clearer status language and help ensure public materials
do not imply commitments that have not been properly approved.
That is a core good-government practice.
4. Implementation Accountability
Mission 26 is not only about vision. It is about disciplined implementation.
These policies create a stronger foundation for Integrated Park Plans, project sequencing,
park-zone management, ecological stewardship, public commitments, and Commission
decision points.
They help the organization move faster where authority is clear and slow down
appropriately where a major commitment requires formal review.
Conclusion
The proposed policy modernization package is an organizational readiness step for the next era
of Oakland County Parks.
Mission 26 is increasing the scale and complexity of the park system. These policies help ensure
that growth is supported by healthy governance, clear authority, transparent planning, accurate
public communication, responsible stewardship, and accountable implementation.
The package positions the Commission and administration to work from a stronger foundation as
Oakland County Parks continues converting the millage mandate into long-term countywide public
value.
ATTACHMENTS
1. C26-001, Commission Reserved Authority and Director Delegation, superseding C09-001,
Development of a Policy
2. C26-002, Integrated Park Plans and Park Zones
3. C23-001, Ecologically Sensitive Protection Areas, replacing the Nature Preserve Policy
4. Packet of Existing Commission Policies
Commission Policy
Date Adopted: [proposed]
Date Revised: ____-____-____
C: 26-001 (Proposed)
Commission Reserved Authority and Director Delegation
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission · C: 26-001 (Proposed) · Page 1 of 3
Authority: Public Act 261 of 1965, as amended; Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission Bylaws; applicable Oakland County Board of Commissioners resolutions, County
policies, and adopted budgets.
Related Policies: C26-002, Integrated Park Plans and Park Zones; C23-001, Ecologically
Sensitive Protection Areas.
Supersedes: C09-001, Development of a Policy, adopted March 4, 2009 and revised June 11,
2013, in its entirety.
I. PURPOSE
This policy establishes how the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission governs the
park system: which decisions are reserved to the Commission, which are delegated to the
Director, and how staff work, plans, and documents relate to Commission and Director authority.
It preserves the Commission’s authority, preserves the Director’s administrative and operational
authority, and prevents staff, planning, grant, or communication materials from creating
unauthorized commitments.
II. GOVERNING PRINCIPLE
The Commission governs through policy, budget, park-system direction, and formal action on
matters reserved to it by law, bylaws, County policy, Commission policy, or prior Commission
action.
The Director manages, directs, and administers the operational, technical, planning, project-
development, communications, and service-delivery work of the System within approved law,
budget, County policy, Commission policy, Park Rules, and delegated authority.
Staff develop, recommend, draft, analyze, coordinate, and implement work under Director
authority. Staff work and staff documents do not, by themselves, create Commission
commitments.
Except for matters reserved to the Commission, required by the Board of Commissioners,
required by law or County policy, or classified as a Park Rule, administrative, operational,
technical, planning, project-development, and implementation decisions are delegated to the
Director.
III. DEFINITIONS
Commission Policy
A policy adopted by the Commission that establishes governance direction, authority, financial
policy, strategic direction, systemwide standards, or reserved Commission decisions. A
Commission Policy is not automatically a Park Rule.
Park Rule
A rule adopted by the Commission and approved by the Board of Commissioners under PA 261
governing or restricting public use of park property. A Park Rule is enforceable against the
public only after all required adoption, approval, and posting steps are met.
Commission Policy
Date Adopted: [proposed]
Date Revised: ____-____-____
C: 26-001 (Proposed)
Commission Reserved Authority and Director Delegation
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission · C: 26-001 (Proposed) · Page 2 of 3
Director Procedure, Standard, and Administrative Tool
Procedures, standards, guidelines, forms, templates, and checklists that implement policy. These
are established and maintained under Director authority and do not require Commission adoption
unless they create a matter reserved to the Commission.
Planning Instrument
A master plan, Integrated Park Plan, feasibility study, concept plan, zone map, asset management
plan, consultant report, or similar document that organizes information, evaluates options, or
recommends future action.
Commitment
Any action, document, statement, agreement, grant submission, public communication, or
planning designation that creates or reasonably appears to create an obligation of Commission
resources, land use, funding, staffing, operations, scope, or future Commission action.
Public Commitment
Any representation to residents, partners, agencies, grantors, or the public that states or
reasonably implies the Commission has approved a project, amenity, opening date, service level,
land use, or funding.
Material Change
A change to an approved matter that alters scope, budget, schedule, land use, public access, a
public commitment, or an operating or maintenance obligation beyond the Director’s delegated
authority.
IV. MATTERS RESERVED TO THE COMMISSION
Commission action is required to:
1. adopt, amend, repeal, or formally interpret a Commission Policy;
2. adopt, amend, or repeal a Park Rule before submission for Board approval;
3. approve and recommend the annual budget to the Board of Commissioners;
4. approve an Integrated Park Plan framework, its public-value functions, its zone
architecture, and its major elements, and any material change to an approved framework,
under C26-002;
5. authorize land acquisition, disposition, long-term control, or a new park designation;
6. approve major agreements, interlocal agreements, partnership agreements, grant
agreements, or other instruments requiring Commission approval;
7. authorize a major capital project, or a material change to a Commission-approved project;
8. allocate or commit funding outside the approved budget or delegated authority;
9. make or materially change a public commitment that binds or reasonably appears to bind
the Commission; and
10. act on any matter required by law, the Board of Commissioners, County policy, an
agreement, or a grant to come before the Commission.
Commission Policy
Date Adopted: [proposed]
Date Revised: ____-____-____
C: 26-001 (Proposed)
Commission Reserved Authority and Director Delegation
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission · C: 26-001 (Proposed) · Page 3 of 3
V. DIRECTOR AUTHORITY
Within approved law, budget, policy, Park Rules, and delegated authority, the Director may:
1. establish and maintain Director Procedures, Standards, and administrative tools;
2. direct staff and consultant work, planning, analysis, and project development;
3. implement Commission-approved plans, frameworks, budgets, and projects;
4. operate, maintain, and manage the park system and make non-material adjustments
within approved frameworks and budgets;
5. make and manage administrative, operational, and technical decisions;
6. develop and recommend policies, plans, budgets, agreements, and public commitments
for Commission action; and
7. determine whether a matter requires Commission or Board action, and bring it forward
when it does.
VI. PLANNING INSTRUMENTS AND COMMITMENTS
Planning Instruments are developed under Director authority unless the Commission or law
directs otherwise. They organize information, evaluate options, engage residents, and
recommend action. A Planning Instrument does not, by its content alone, adopt a Commission
Policy, create a Park Rule, authorize a project, allocate funding, commit future budgets,
designate binding land use, create a public commitment, or bind future Commission action.
Integrated Park Plan frameworks are approved by the Commission under C26-002. Prior plans,
maps, and Natural Resource Zones are planning information only and are not binding unless
approved by the Commission or adopted through the proper authority.
No document may be used to convert a staff recommendation, planning assumption, map, grant
narrative, or public communication into a Commission commitment unless the proper authority
has approved it.
VII. PLANS ADOPTED UNDER INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT
A plan, framework, or commitment adopted as part of a formal interlocal agreement is binding
until replaced. It remains in effect according to the terms of the agreement until a new plan is
adopted through the required process and may not be unilaterally overridden by administrative
action.
VIII. RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER AUTHORITY
This policy does not reduce any approval required by law, the Board of Commissioners, County
policy, adopted budget, procurement, an agreement, a grant, or a Park Rule. Where another
requirement applies, both apply. Where this policy conflicts with a prior Commission policy, this
policy controls unless the other is required by law.
IX. EFFECTIVE DATE
This policy takes effect upon Commission adoption.
Commission Policy
Date Adopted: [proposed]
Date Revised: ____-____-____
C: 26-002 (Proposed)
Integrated Park Plans and Park Zones
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission · C: 26-002 (Proposed) · Page 1 of 3
Authority: Public Act 261 of 1965, as amended; Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission Bylaws; applicable Oakland County Board of Commissioners resolutions, County
policies, and adopted budgets.
Related Policies: C26-001, Commission Reserved Authority and Director Delegation; C23-001,
Ecologically Sensitive Protection Areas.
I. PURPOSE
This policy establishes Integrated Park Plans and Park Zones as the framework for planning and
managing each park in the Oakland County Parks and Recreation System. It defines what the
Commission approves, what the Director administers, and how each park’s purpose, zones, and
major elements are decided and changed.
II. POLICY STATEMENT
Each park in the System is guided by an Integrated Park Plan approved by the Commission.
The Commission approves each park’s framework, which includes its purpose, public-value
functions, zone architecture, and major elements. The Director administers, implements, and
maintains each approved plan and makes updates within the approved framework. Material
changes to an approved framework return to the Commission.
An Integrated Park Plan and its Park Zones are planning and management tools. They guide
decisions within the framework the Commission approves. They do not, by themselves, create
Park Rules, authorize projects, allocate funding beyond approved budget, or restrict public use
unless approved through the required process.
III. DEFINITIONS
Integrated Park Plan (IPP)
A park-level plan that describes a park’s purpose, public-value functions, existing conditions,
Park Zones, major elements and capital concepts, and management direction. Each IPP
framework is approved by the Commission.
Park Framework
The elements of an IPP that the Commission approves: the park’s purpose, its public-value
functions, its zone architecture, and its major elements and capital concepts.
Public-Value Function
A purpose a park or area is intended to serve, such as activation, recreation access, health and
wellness, social connection, discovery, nature learning, stewardship, or resource protection. A
park may serve more than one function, and functions may be adjusted through an approved
framework change.
Park Zone
A designation describing the intended use, function, condition, or management emphasis of a
defined area within a park. The set of a park’s zones is its zone architecture.
Commission Policy
Date Adopted: [proposed]
Date Revised: ____-____-____
C: 26-002 (Proposed)
Integrated Park Plans and Park Zones
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission · C: 26-002 (Proposed) · Page 2 of 3
Major Element
A significant facility, amenity, capital concept, or public-use feature identified in the park
framework, such as a building, aquatic feature, trail system, playground, or enterprise facility.
Material Change
A change to an approved park framework that alters the park’s purpose, public-value functions,
zone architecture, a major element, public access, land use, a public commitment, or an operating
or maintenance obligation beyond the Director’s delegated authority.
IV. COMMISSION APPROVAL
The Commission approves, for each park:
1. the Integrated Park Plan framework;
2. the park’s purpose and public-value functions;
3. the park’s zone architecture; and
4. the park’s major elements and capital concepts.
The Commission also approves any material change to an approved framework, and any matter
that separately requires Commission or Board action under C26-001 or by law, budget,
agreement, or Park Rule.
V. DIRECTOR AUTHORITY
Once the Commission approves a park framework, the Director administers everything below the
plan. The Director may:
1. implement the approved plan, zones, and major elements;
2. operate, maintain, and manage the park within the approved framework;
3. make updates, refinements, and non-material adjustments within the approved
framework;
4. establish the IPP format, mapping standards, procedures, and review schedules;
5. direct staff and consultant work; and
6. use IPPs and zones to inform budget recommendations, capital planning, operations,
programming, partnerships, and public engagement.
The Director shall bring a matter to the Commission when it constitutes a material change or
otherwise requires Commission or Board action.
VI. PARK ZONES
Park Zones are approved as part of a park’s framework. A Park Zone does not, by itself, restrict
public access, prohibit activities, authorize enforcement, create a Park Rule, authorize a capital
project, or allocate funding. An enforceable public-use restriction requires a Park Rule adopted
through the required process. Ecologically sensitive protection areas are governed by C23-001
and are recognized within a park framework by reference to that policy.
Commission Policy
Date Adopted: [proposed]
Date Revised: ____-____-____
C: 26-002 (Proposed)
Integrated Park Plans and Park Zones
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission · C: 26-002 (Proposed) · Page 3 of 3
Prior maps, Natural Resource Zones, consultant products, and staff planning maps are planning
information only. They are not binding unless approved by the Commission as part of a park
framework or otherwise adopted through the proper authority.
VII. PLANS ADOPTED UNDER INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT
Where a park plan, framework, or zone arrangement is adopted as part of a formal interlocal
agreement, that plan is binding until replaced. It remains in effect according to the terms of the
agreement until a new plan is adopted through the required process, and it may not be
unilaterally overridden by an Integrated Park Plan or administrative action. Any change to such a
plan must follow the terms of the agreement and receive the approvals the agreement and this
policy require.
VIII. STATUS LABELS AND PUBLIC COMMUNICATION
Integrated Park Plans, Park Zones, maps, and public materials shall clearly state approval status,
such as existing condition, concept, under study, Commission-approved, or completed. Terms
implying commitment, such as approved, planned, coming soon, or permanent, shall not be used
unless the approval status and authority basis are accurate. No public communication shall state
or imply that a plan or zone authorizes a project, opening date, amenity, funding commitment, or
public-use restriction unless the proper authority has approved it.
IX. RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER AUTHORITY
This policy does not reduce any approval required by law, the Board of Commissioners, County
policy, adopted budget, procurement, an agreement, a grant, or a Park Rule. Where another
requirement applies, both apply.
X. EFFECTIVE DATE
This policy takes effect upon Commission adoption.
Commission Policy
Date Adopted: [proposed]
Date Revised: ____-____-____
C: 23-001 (Proposed)
Ecologically Sensitive Protection Areas
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission · C: 23-001 (Proposed) · Page 1 of 3
Authority: Public Act 261 of 1965, as amended; Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission Bylaws; applicable Oakland County Board of Commissioners resolutions, County
policies, adopted budgets, and legal restrictions.
Related Policies: C26-002, Integrated Park Plans and Park Zones; C26-001, Commission
Reserved Authority and Director Delegation.
Supersedes: the prior Nature Preserve Policy [prior policy number and adoption date to be
confirmed by Corporation Counsel] in its entirety.
I. PURPOSE
This policy establishes Ecologically Sensitive Protection Areas (ESPAs) as the framework for
protecting sensitive natural and cultural resources within the Oakland County Parks and
Recreation System. It replaces the prior Nature Preserve Policy.
II. POLICY STATEMENT
An Ecologically Sensitive Protection Area is an area where protecting sensitive natural or
cultural resources is the primary management purpose. An ESPA is a planning and management
designation. It becomes an enforceable restriction on public use only when a Park Rule, legal
restriction, easement, permit condition, or agreement is separately adopted.
III. DEFINITIONS
Ecologically Sensitive Protection Area (ESPA)
An area within a park or site where sensitive ecological, hydrological, habitat, wildlife, plant-
community, geological, archaeological, scenic, or cultural resources warrant heightened
protection.
Compatible Public Use
Public use that can occur without materially impairing the resource-protection purpose of the
ESPA.
Resource Protection Plan
A Director-approved management record for an ESPA identifying the reason for designation,
boundaries, protection measures, compatible uses, monitoring, maintenance, and review
schedule.
IV. DESIGNATION AUTHORITY
An ESPA is recognized within a park framework under C26-002. The Commission approves
ESPA designation as part of a park’s framework, or where designation would create or amend a
Commission policy, create or amend a Park Rule, require Board approval, impose an enforceable
public-use restriction, create permanent protected status, or require an agreement or property
action reserved to the Commission.
Commission Policy
Date Adopted: [proposed]
Date Revised: ____-____-____
C: 23-001 (Proposed)
Ecologically Sensitive Protection Areas
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission · C: 23-001 (Proposed) · Page 2 of 3
The Director may prepare and maintain Resource Protection Plans, apply management and
stewardship measures, and administer ESPAs within the approved framework, including
temporary protective measures needed to prevent imminent resource harm.
V. DESIGNATION CRITERIA
An area may be designated an ESPA when one or more of the following are present:
1. rare, threatened, endangered, special-concern, or locally significant species;
2. a high-quality natural community;
3. sensitive wetland, riparian, floodplain, vernal pool, lake, stream, or groundwater features;
4. prairie fen, oak opening, mature forest, native grassland, or other sensitive habitat;
5. important breeding, nesting, roosting, migration, or overwintering areas;
6. a restoration area requiring protection during establishment;
7. areas vulnerable to erosion, compaction, fragmentation, invasive species, or hydrological
disruption;
8. archaeological, cultural, historic, or scenic resources requiring protection; or
9. a deed restriction, conservation easement, grant condition, permit condition, or other
legal obligation.
VI. PROTECTION CATEGORIES
An ESPA may be managed at a level matched to the resource and the site:
• High Protection: resource protection is primary and public use is highly limited or
carefully controlled.
• Seasonal Protection: heightened protection during a defined season or condition,
returning to normal management afterward.
• Managed Access: compatible public use is allowed with measures that protect the
resource.
• Restoration Protection: temporary protection while a restoration area establishes.
VII. PUBLIC ACCESS AND PARK RULES
An ESPA designation, map, or plan does not by itself restrict public use or authorize
enforcement. Any enforceable public-use restriction within an ESPA must be adopted as a Park
Rule through the required process, or arise from a legal restriction, easement, permit, or
agreement.
VIII. PLANS ADOPTED UNDER INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT
Where ESPA protection or boundaries are adopted as part of a formal interlocal agreement, that
plan is binding until replaced and remains in effect according to the terms of the agreement
until a new plan is adopted through the required process.
Commission Policy
Date Adopted: [proposed]
Date Revised: ____-____-____
C: 23-001 (Proposed)
Ecologically Sensitive Protection Areas
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission · C: 23-001 (Proposed) · Page 3 of 3
IX. STEWARDSHIP AND REVIEW
The Director shall maintain records of ESPAs and Resource Protection Plans, monitor
conditions, and review designations periodically. The Director may recommend modifying or
retiring an ESPA through the same authority by which it was designated.
X. TRANSITION FROM PRIOR POLICY
Areas designated under the prior Nature Preserve Policy shall be reviewed and reclassified under
this policy. The Director may recommend that the Commission retain any prior designation that
warrants continued Commission-level protection.
XI. EFFECTIVE DATE
This policy takes effect upon Commission adoption.
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
03-04-09
Dated Revised:
06-11-13
C: 09-001
Page 1 of 4
Development of a Policy
I.PURPOSE: The purpose of this policy is to identify the process for the development, revision,
review or adoption of a Department policy.
II.PROCEDURE:
Definitions:
Policy - A deliberate plan of action to guide decisions.
Procedure - Specific actions that support a policy.
Standard - Conditions expected upon completion of a task.
Policies Finalized File - Electronic file that contains policies currently in effect.
Policies Under Consideration File - Electronic file that contains new policies in
development or existing policies that are under review.
Policies Pending Approval - Electronic file that contains policies to be reviewed by the
Policies and Procedures Strategic Planning sub-committee and reviewed and adopted by
the Administrative Management Team.
Policy Owner – Subject matter expert on the topic for which a particular policy is written
Business Development Representative for Organizational Development –Position within
Administration department that is responsible for coordinating policy development,
tracking and updates.
Administrative Management Team – Consists of Executive Officer, Manager of
Operations, Chief of Facilities, Maintenance and Development, Chief of Operations for
North/South District and Chief of Recreation Programs and Services responsible for
guiding management of the parks system and providing input to the Commission
regarding decisions and direction of the parks system.
Administrative Services – Support staff assigned to Administration responsible for general
office support work.
A.Development of a New Policy
1.Any Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission staff member who
identifies a need for a policy shall submit the information on a policy template
(available on the shared network drive in the “Polices” folder) to their supervisor.
2.If the supervisor deems that the request for a new policy is warranted, the request
and a draft shall be submitted to the policy owner.
a.Once the policy owner provides input on the policy, it will be saved in the
“Policies under Consideration” folder on the shared network drive in the
“Polices” folder.
b.The policy owner will then notify the Business Development
Representative for Organizational Development that the policy has been
drafted and is ready for review.
3.The Business Development Representative for Organizational Development will
review the policies under consideration file and, upon approval, save them to the
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
03-04-09
Dated Revised:
06-11-13
C: 09-001
Page 2 of 4
Development of a Policy
“Policies Pending Approval” folder on the shared network drive in the “Polices”
folder.
a.The Business Development Representative for Organizational
Development will then forward the policy to the Administrative
Management Team a minimum of five days prior to its upcoming
meeting.
b.The Administrative Management Team will review the policy and make
recommendations for approval.
4.Administrative Management Team and/or Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission (depending on the type of policy) may formally adopt the policy.
5.Administrative Services staff will ensure proper formatting of the policy, save it to
the “Policies Finalized” folder on the shared network drive in the “Polices” folder
and release it to the department within one week of formal adoption. All adopted
polices will also be maintained in a policy binder located in the front office area
near the Executive Officer’s office.
B.Revision of an Existing Policy
1.All policies will be reviewed annually by the policy owner. Necessary revisions
will be made and forwarded to the Administrative Management Team for review.
2.Administrative Management Team/Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission (depending on the type of policy) may formally adopt the amended
policy.
3.Administrative Services staff will ensure proper formatting of the policy, note the
revised or reviewed date (if no changes) on the policy, save in the “Policies
Finalized” folder on the Shared Network Drive in the “Polices” folder and release
to the department within one week of formal adoption.
C.Policy Categories
1.Commission Policies are policies that set forth procedures and standards for
external business operations of the Commission and are typically high level
policies.
a.These will be reviewed by the Administrative Management Team and the
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission. These policies must
be approved by the Commission for formal adoption.
b.Examples include: Business Plan Policy, Pricing Policy, Sponsorship
Policy, and Partnership Policy.
2.Administrative Services Policies are policies that relate to "administrative
services" functions and internal business operations of the Commission.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
03-04-09
Dated Revised:
06-11-13
C: 09-001
Page 3 of 4
Development of a Policy
a.These will be reviewed and adopted by the Administrative Management
Team.
b.Examples include: Smoking, Business Expense Guidelines and
Performance Management.
3.Operations Policies are policies directly related to the operation of the department.
a.These will be reviewed and adopted by the Administrative Management
Team.
b.Examples include: Customer Service Standards, Cash and Payment Card
Industry Standards, and Uniforms.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
03-04-09
Dated Revised:
06-11-13
C: 09-001
Page 4 of 4
Development of a Policy
Change Control Record
Revision Date Owner Description of Change
03-04-09 New Policy Adopted
05-03-12 S. Mackey II. A. New title
I.A. 2. Clarified roles
‘II. A. 3. Clarified roles
‘II. B. New Title
‘II. B. 1. Changed ‘section lead’ to ‘policy
owner’
‘II. C. moved ‘Commission policies’ forward from
3 to 1.
06-11-13 S. Mackey Added definitions for
Policy Owner
Business Development Representative for
Organizational Development
Administrative Management Team
Administrative Services
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
04-08-09
Dated Revised:
04-08-09
C-09-002
Page 1 of 2
Development of Business Plans Policy
I.PURPOSE: The purpose of developing business plans for destination facilities and core
programs centers on developing a business approach and philosophy to managing these
facilities and programs based on a key strategy outlined in the Oakland County Parks and
Recreation Commission’s Strategic Plan adopted in August, 2008. The goal is to
maximize revenues, and provide efficiency to these facilities and programs through
effective pricing, cost containment and staffing of these resources. Staff within the
organization, along with outside consulting support, will develop these business plans
over the next two years. The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission will
review and adopt the Executive Summaries of these business plans for staff
implementation. The results of the business plans efforts will be reviewed and updated
annually by OCPRC staff.
II.PROCEDURE:
A.The Executive Officer will establish which business plans will be developed over
the course of each year. Business Plans will be done for all current parks and
facilities but also for any new proposed park or facility to determine its feasibility.
Staff will follow the business template developed by PROS Consulting and will
use the appropriate methodology:
1. For tracking direct and indirect costs
2. Reviewing demographics and potential users
3. Focus on existing programs to support the destination facility the makeup
of the core program area
4. Evaluate marketing efforts to attract new users and retain existing users
5. Focus on appropriate pricing options as outlined in the pricing policy of
the Commission
6. Evaluate existing partnerships and level of equity from Oakland County
and its partner’s perspective and incorporate measureable outcomes to be
tracked and managed through the changes recommended in the business
plan.
III.STANDARDS:
A.Staff will follow agreed to performance measures that focus on the following:
1. Revenues to expense outcomes desired
2. Staffing levels and use based on approved budget levels
3. Customer retention and satisfaction levels achieved
4. Capacity management of each core program area and destination facility
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
04-08-09
Dated Revised:
04-08-09
C-09-002
Page 2 of 2
Development of Business Plans Policy
5. Earned income gained to off-set operational costs
6. Staff performance levels met through effective scheduling
7. Marketing efforts and point-of-sale data collected and managed on each
customer
8.Partnership equity levels met
IV. EVALUATION:
A.The Business and Organizational Development Section will work with staff on the
development of the business plan and in tracking of the performance measures
established in the business plan. Staff will review with the Business and
Organizational Development Section staff their approaches to make business
related changes to achieve the recommendations and cost containment efforts
outlined in their respective business plan. The Administrative Management Team
will review monthly with staff on how their efforts to manage the sites and core
programs are working against expected outcomes.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
04-15-09 03-01-17
Page 1 of 5
Residential Property Lease Policy
I.PURPOSE: The purpose of this policy is to set forth procedures and guidelines to
manage residential properties located on Oakland County park property. The Oakland
County Park and Recreation Executive Officer shall oversee the implementation and
interpretation of this policy. The procedures and guidelines contained in this policy are
divided into the following sections:
A.Procedure for Designating Residential Property;
B.Procedure for Selecting Tenants; and
C.General Guidelines.
II.PROCEDURES AND GUIDELINES:
A.Procedure for Designating Residential Property
1.Residential properties currently exist on certain park property. Residential
properties may also exist on land acquired by the Oakland County Parks
and Recreation Commission.
a. These residential properties shall be designated by the Oakland
County Parks and Recreation Commission for use as residential
properties based on recommendations from the Executive Officer.
b.Once designated, the residential properties shall be listed as
residential properties on the property maps and facility inventory
descriptions kept by the Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Facilities Maintenance Division and given an asset number.
2.The Executive Officer has the authority to withdraw the designation of a
residential property at any time. When a property is removed from use as
residential, it will be reported to the Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission by the Executive Officer.
B.Procedure for Selecting Tenants
1.Preference for tenants for the residential properties shall be made in the
following order:
a.Full-time Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission
employees at the Park where the residential property is located;
b.Full-time Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission
employees from the rest of the Park system;
c.Part-time Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission
employees at the Park where the residential property is located;
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
04-15-09 03-01-17
Page 2 of 5
Residential Property Lease Policy
d.Part-time Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission
employees from the rest of the Park system;
e.Full-time employees of other County of Oakland Departments;
f.Part-time employees of other County of Oakland Departments;
g.Employees of other government agencies; and
h.The general public.
2.Requests to be a tenant shall be made by completing the “Residential
Request Form,” attached as Appendix A, and submitting the Form to the
Chief of P&R Business Operations.
3.An individual completing a Residential Request Form shall also include a
description of the nature and value of the residential duties to be
performed by the individual, the individual’s qualifications to perform
such duties, and the individual’s ability to perform such duties.
4.The Chief of P&R Business Operations shall review the request and forward
it to the Executive Officer for review.
5.The Executive Officer, at his or her discretion, shall approve or disapprove
the request to become a tenant subject to the approval of a Lease
Agreement.
6.If the Executive Officer approves the request, the Chief of P&R Business
Operations shall work with Corporation Counsel to develop a Lease
Agreement.
7.The Lease Agreement will be provided to the Oakland County Parks and
Recreation Commission and the Oakland County Board of Commissioners
for approval.
C.General Guidelines
1. Monthly Lease Fee
a.The monthly lease fee for the residential property shall be
calculated as follows: “Market Lease Rate of the residential
property” minus the “Percentage Discount.” The market leas e
rat e of the residential property shall be established by the Chief
of P&R Business Operations, working with the Property
Management Specialist from the Oakland County Department of
Facilities Management and Operations, on a case- by-case basis
using comparable rental properties in the same area as the
residential property, taking year built, square footage, number of
bedrooms and bathrooms into consideration.
i.The market lease rate will be recalculated each time a
property is leased or a lease is renewed.
b.The percentage discount shall be 30% for performing the
following residential duties:
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
04-15-09 03-01-17
Page 3 of 5
Residential Property Lease Policy
i.Tenant Duties.
•To the extent permitted by law, the 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 the Landlord.
•The Tenant shall arrange for emergency repair and
maintenance services for Park Property and facilities as
needed.
•The Tenant shall make reports to the Park Supervisor or
other entity as may be required by the Landlord.
•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.
2. Residential Property Inspections
a. Each residential property shall be inspected and evaluated annually
by the Facilities Maintenance Section, including the Facilities
Maintenance Supervisor, Park Supervisor, and District Chief. The
date and time should be scheduled and coordinated with Facilities
Maintenance staff, the District Chief, and the tenant.
b.The inspection should document the condition of the residential
property and record any structural maintenance necessary to
conform to applicable laws, rules, regulations, ordinances, or
building codes. It is recommended that photographs be taken and
become a part of the record.
c.The Chief of P&R Business Operations shall maintain a file for
all residential properties including the lease agreement and all
documents required by the lease agreement.
d.The Chief of P&R Business Operations shall also advise the District
Chief and the Executive Officer of any problems associated with
the residential properties and implementation of this policy.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
04-15-09 03-01-17
Page 4 of 5
Residential Property Lease Policy
APPENDIX A - RESIDENTIAL REQUEST FORM
1.Location of Property:
2.Asset/Property #/Address:
3.Description of Residence:
4.Name of Interested Person:
5.Employee Classification:
6.Employment Location:
7. Annual Salary:
Duties:
Information below to be completed by Chief of P&R Business Operations
9.Current Market Lease Rate:
10. Discount Amount:
11.Net Monthly Rental Fee:
12.Lease Period Dates:
Executive Officer’s Approval
Date: Executive Officer’s Signature:
Date: Resident’s Signature:
Existing Policies
Commission
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Date Adopted:
04-15-09 03-01-17
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Residential Property Lease Policy
Change Control Record
Revision Date Owner Description of Change
inventory from Planning Section to Facilities
streamline process for designating residential
Business Development” with “Internal
Business Development” with “Internal
Replaced “Organizational and Business
Development” with “Internal Services”
Replaced “Comparable lease charge” with
“current market rate”
Removed section on “Count Utility
for all tenants performing residential duties
and adjusted form (Appendix A) to reflect the
above changes.
relationship because of tenant duties.
Existing Policies
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Policy
Date Adopted:
05-06-09
Dated Revised:
05-06-09
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Pricing Policy
I.PURPOSE: Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission is committed to providing
outstanding public parks and recreation facilities along with quality recreation programs. The
increasing demands for additional parks, recreation facilities and programs, coupled with
rising operating and capital costs, makes it challenging to maintain existing levels of service.
It is necessary for Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission to have a sound and
consistent pricing policy that will serve as a management tool for establishing, implementing
and evaluating various fees and revenue options. The establishment of a pricing policy allows
for additional programs and facilities to be made available that would not otherwise be
developed or offered.
The new Pricing Policy for Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission is designed to
provide staff with consistent guidelines in pricing admissions, facilities, programs and
services. It will help Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission address revenue
goals and provide greater fairness in pricing services to users. Oakland County Parks and
Recreation Commission has not used consistent decision making criteria to price services in
the past. This Pricing Policy allows the Oakland County Park and Recreation Commission,
users, staff and general taxpayers to better understand the philosophy behind pricing of a
product or service. The Pricing Policy is based on the true cost to provide the service and
whether the service is a public, merit, or private service.
This Pricing Policy supports the cost recovery goal of 55% Oakland County Parks and
Recreation Commission is trying to recover against the overall budget. Currently, Oakland
County Parks and Recreation Commission has recovered 40% to 44% of its operating budget
over the last four years.
II.CURRENT PRICING PHILOSOPHIES: The current pricing philosophy within Oakland
County Parks and Recreation Commission is based on the perception of affordability.
There has been no consistency across Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission
as to how prices are established and presented to users. Recommended fee increases have
been based on perceptions of staff and comparisons with other area park and recreation
agencies. The current pricing philosophy of Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission has been to minimize user fees for nature education programs, persons with
disabilities programs and special services. Pricing of facilities, such as golf, waterparks
and campgrounds, havs been based more on the market value against other like kind of
service providers versus the cost to provide the experience or a cost recovery goal.
III.CURRENT PRICING PRACTICES: Most user fees and charges are set by Oakland County
Parks and Recreation Commission based on the perception of the citizens’ ability to pay for
the use of facilities, services and programs, and based on comparative prices of other area
local park and recreation agencies provided to them by staff. These prices have been
approved as more of a fee guideline versus being based on a specific cost recovery goal or on
Existing Policies
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Date Adopted:
05-06-09
Dated Revised:
05-06-09
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Pricing Policy
the true cost to provide the service. The Executive Officer has had authority to set fees on
some programs based on market value of the service and cost recovery goals for a specific
program.
Currently each division within Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission functions
separately with respect to cost recovery and user fee strategies to recover operational costs.
The goal of this Pricing Policy is to align them into one overall strategy and philosophy.
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission has experienced difficulties with
increasing user fees even when the costs to provide the service had gone up. Many
program fees have not been raised for several years. This has primarily been the result of
a lack of true cost data and quantifiable program information on which the Park
Commissioners can base their decisions. Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission has never established a true cost of service, never established criteria for
what is a core service or non‐core service, or established criteria for what constitutes a
public, merit, or private service. The lack of a sound pricing justification, philosophy and
effective data puts Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission in a defensive
position when it comes to changing prices to offset operational cost.
IV. GUIDING PRINCIPLES OF PRICING: The guiding principles of effective pricing of
park and recreation services are fourfold as follows:
A.Accessibility, Fairness, and Affordability
Equity and fairness means those who personally benefit from the service above what
a general taxpayer receives should pay for that benefit and those who benefit the most
should pay the most. Affordability should be based on benefit and ability to pay. This
policy recognizes that affordability is in the eye of the user. Public park and
recreation agencies offer three kinds of services. Definitions for Public services,
Merit services and Private services are outlined below. The type of service and
benefit received will directly determine the cost recovery strategy or pricing strategy
to be used in the pricing of the services and products Oakland County Parks and
Recreation Commission creates.
B.Financial Sustainability
Financial sustainability means that user fees and prices charged from admissions,
programs, food services, retail services, rentals and special events will assist in the
overall funding of the Commission operations. The revenue produced through this
will give Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission the needed revenue for
operations, capital costs and marketing dollars to promote programs and services.
These dollars can come from any source that supports operations and include grants,
sponsorships, partnerships, permits, special rental uses and many other options
Existing Policies
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Date Adopted:
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Dated Revised:
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Pricing Policy
available to Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission.
C.Efficiency
Through the cost of service assessment, Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission staff can evaluate how the service is delivered and if it is delivered in
the most effective and efficient manner based on the cost of service assessment.
Priorities to enhance user or visitor experiences are clearly defined because the
services provided Priorities to enhance user or visitor experiences are clearly
defined because the priorities are established based on the direct user costs that
are associated with the activities that users want.” nd the priorities are established
based on the direct user costs that are associated with the activities that users want.
Pricing services correctly can achieve seven positive results:
1. Reduces congestion and overcrowding
2. Indicates user and visitor demand and support
3. Increases positive user and visitor feedback
4. Provides encouragement to the private sector to invest in Oakland County
Parks and Recreation Commission programs through contracts that can bring
greater revenue to the Commission
5. Ensures stronger accountability on Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission staff and management of the service
6. Creates multi-tiered pricing so users who want a higher level of quality can
purchase it
D.Cost Recovery
Cost recovery assures that dollars generated from each activity are redistributed back
to the area they came from to pay direct cost and indirect cost in some situations and
for future improvements associated with a facility or activity. Examples would be
sports leagues pay for improvements to the sport fields or camper fees make
improvements to campgrounds.
The staff will document the cost of services provided through a costing model
provided by PROS Consulting. The true cost of each activity is designated as direct
and indirect costs associated with providing a product or service.
A periodic review of all prices is recommended to document the changes that have
occurred within the products or services provided by Oakland County Parks and
Recreation Commission. This will help staff evaluate which program, product or
service should have adjustments based on the Pricing Policy, Philosophy and Cost
Recovery Goal.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
05-06-09
Dated Revised:
05-06-09
C: 09-004
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Pricing Policy
The Executive Officer and staff will set prices for services based on the following
process:
1. What is the true cost to provide the service and what is the cost on a per-
experience basis, hourly rate, or unit rate
2. Is the program or service a core program or non‐core program based on the
criteria established in the pricing policy
3. Is the program a public, merit or private service based on the established
criteria in the pricing policy and the level of personal benefit the user receives
over what general taxpayer receives
4. Does this price support the cost recovery goal desired for the program or
recreation facility to support sustainability
V.PROCESS: The Pricing Policy was developed to provide a consistent methodology to
pricing of services based on a philosophical and cost of service approach that provides
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission with a solid foundation to support a
sustainable system. It is the intent of this policy for Oakland County Park and Recreation
Commissioner to approve the policy based on an agreed-to methodology process and
philosophy and to create fairness and equity on how programs and services are priced. The
Pricing Policy sets forth recommendations on cost recovery levels based on whether the
program or service is a core or non‐core service and what level of classification it falls into
based on its public, merit or private benefit. The Pricing Policy seeks to gain Oakland County
Park and Recreation Commissioners’ approval to allow the Executive Officer and his/her
staff to set the right prices using the methodology established to achieve the cost recovery
goals for Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission and to create a sustainable
system. PROS recommends the use of nine guiding principles to effectively develop the
foundation of thinking behind pricing of a service and to establish an adequate pricing policy
that demonstrates to users the process Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission
will be using to develop prices for services in the future.
VI. STATEMENT OF PHILOSOPHY: The guiding principles of the Oakland County Parks and
Recreation Commission’s Pricing Policy are based on a clear understanding of what the core
and non‐core services are, what programs and services are public services, merit services and
private services, and the cost to provide the product or service both direct and indirect, the
level of benefit and exclusivity the user receives above what a general taxpayer receives.
Also included is the percentage of cost recovery Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission is trying to recover against the overall budget and the activity goal within a
specific core business.
Within this philosophy, Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission staff will
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05-06-09
Dated Revised:
05-06-09
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Pricing Policy
continue to efficiently offer the most diversified recreation services, ensuring that all
Oakland County citizens have equal opportunity to participate in a wide variety of programs
and services.
Based on this analysis, cost recovery goals were established by core program activities. It
must be kept in mind that individual programs within the core areas may have varying cost
recovery goals because of the public value associated with the program, but their aggregates
should aim to meet the system‐wide goals mentioned below. Also, individual programs
within each core or non‐core program are classified as Public, Private or Merit based and
may have differing cost recovery rates than that of the entire core program area.
Recommended cost recovery rates are as follows based on the criteria and analysis completed
by PROS and staff to achieve a sustainable system.
Program Core Program Private/Merit/Public Recovery %
Golf Private 100%
Aquatics Health,
Fitness & Wellness
Swim Lessons Merit 60%
Adult Private 100%
Youth Merit 60%
Outdoor Camps Private 90%‐110%
Adults Private 100%
Youth Merit 60%‐70%
Nature Center Merit 40%‐80%
Special Events Special Events Public 20%
Mobile Units Merit 30%‐40%
Buses Private 100%
Sports Fields Youth Merit 50%
Adults Private 100%
Adaptive Recreation Youth Public 20%
Adult Merit 40%
Volunteer Public Direct Cost
Existing Policies
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Policy
Date Adopted:
05-06-09
Dated Revised:
05-06-09
C: 09-004
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Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission should consider implementing
differential pricing strategies that focus on maximizing the capacity of use of recreation
facilities and programs based on the following pricing alternatives:
A.Price facilities and programs by primetime and non‐primetime for aquatic parks,
campgrounds, golf courses and programs.
B.Price by season and off-season rates for waterparks, campgrounds and golf
courses
C.Price by location for sports fields, campgrounds, picnic areas.
D.Price services by age segment as it applies to seniors and young people between
the ages of 19-30 for golf courses and campgrounds
E.Price services by using differential pricing by level of program, by level of
instruction, level of exclusivity, by time, size of group, loyalty and length of stay.
F.Price services by residents / non‐residents by incorporating a resident’s discount in
the fee where appropriate
G.Price services that include capital replacement cost in fees for equipment,
buildings or park amenities
H.Contractor Pricing should be based on direct and indirect costs and the ability for
the contractor to bring in a steady flow of users
I.Partnership pricing should be dealt with based on a set amount of equity based on
use, time, operational costs and must be as close to 50/50 as possible; both
partners contribute to the service
J.Incentive Pricing needs to be allowed that focuses on discounts for season passes,
group admission rates, rental uses, and for loyalty. These can be set up as
promotional opportunities to encourage people to use the service
K.All pricing involved in facility cost recovery needs to be established against a
targeted recovery goal, by age segment, by primetime and non‐primetimes, by
volume and by group.
L.All Commission Programs need to recover the direct cost of the services.
M.All Sponsorship/Partnerships will be priced based on the image value received
and impression points, as it applies to market rates in the County currently.
The Pricing Policy follows the 9 Step Guiding Principles for all future pricing changes or
new pricing efforts that take place inside the organization. The Pricing Policy will be updated
every two years for consistency and implementation impact to the operational budget.
Existing Policies
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Policy
Date Adopted:
05-06-09
Dated Revised:
05-06-09
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VII. EARNED INCOME OPPORTUNITIES: Earned income dollars support the
operational budget and help to meet cost recovery goals that can’t be achieved by pricing of
services. Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission does seek some earned income
opportunities but it has not been pursued in a systematic manner to help offset operational
costs and keep user prices as low as possible. Areas of earned income focus will center on
grants, advertising, sponsorship, partnerships and other funding sources. These earned
income opportunities will require a concentrated support effort by the Business Development
staff to be successful with an implementation strategy in place to achieve the desired results.
Staff training in earned income development is needed so staff does not undervalue the
earned income opportunity. The earned income options will be incorporated to offset
operating cost where prices cannot meet the cost recovery goals.
The earned income options that are outlined should be pursued only if pricing options don’t
work as outlined. The following earned income opportunities will need a system‐wide
strategy so there is consistency in seeking earned income endeavors to supplement costs for
programs and facilities.
VIII. SUMMARY: The key to implementing a successful Pricing Policy centers on having
an effective methodology and process to follow as outlined in this policy. Oakland County
Parks and Recreation Commission staff has had a lot of input into this document and has
learned a lot about their costs and levels of cost recovery that they are operating in now. It is
also important to have measurable outcomes that hold staff accountable to meet these pricing
and revenue goals and recommendations as well as teaches them to manage within a business
mindset while managing a social service as it applies to efficiency, cost, and pricing services
to the level of benefit a user receives above a general taxpayer that is recoverable to off‐set
operational costs.
A greater awareness of the costs to provide a service will also help staff make more informed
decisions, from a pricing and efficiency standpoint. Tracking pricing outcomes and results
based on capacity and attendance and the revenue created will be critical for the future.
Effectively communicating costs and providing users pricing alternatives based on their price
point will be important to the users and will also be a major element to ensure the success of
this plan. Lastly, using all the appropriate earned income strategies will only help the
organization move towards greater fiscal sustainability and long-term success in the minds of
their users and Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commissioners. This Pricing Policy
will not be easy to implement but it is attainable and will achieve great results for Oakland
County Parks and Recreation Commission if followed. Let the process begin!
Existing Policies
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Policy
Date Adopted:
05-06-09
Dated Revised:
05-06-09
C: 09-005
Page 1 of 6
Partnership Policy
I.BACKGROUND: The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission has
developed partnerships over the last 43 years that have helped to support the management
of parks and recreation facilities and programs services, while also providing educational
and recreational opportunities for the citizens of Oakland County. These various
partnerships have lacked an overall partnership philosophy which has created inequities
between the Commission and partnerships in place.
II.PURPOSE: The purpose of the Partnership Policy is to:
A.Establish equitable and sustainable long-term relationships with like-minded
organizations to help further the mission of the Oakland County Parks and
Recreation Commission.
B.To expand opportunities for Oakland County residents through the creation of
new programs and activities and the sharing of resources.
C.To maximize the use of our resources (staff, facilities, programs, etc.) to allow for
more efficient and effective programs and operations.
III.GENERAL PRINCIPLES AND GUIDELINES: The recommended policies will promote
fairness and equity within the existing and future partnerships while helping staff to
manage against what may have caused conflicts internally and externally. Certain
partnership principles must be adopted by the Park Commissioners for existing and future
partnerships to work effectively. These partnership principles are as follows:
A.All partnerships will require an upfront presentation that describes the reason for
creation of the partnership and establishes an outcome that benefits each partner’s
involvement.
B.All partnerships will require a working agreement with measurable outcomes that
hold each partner accountable to the outcomes desired and to each other and will
be evaluated on a yearly basis with reports back to the Park Commissioners on the
outcomes of the partnership and how equitable the partnership remains.
C.All partnerships will track direct and indirect costs associated with the partnership
investment to demonstrate the level of equity each partner is investing.
D.Each partner will not treat one another as a client-to-client relationship, but will
create a partnership culture that focuses on planning together on a yearly basis;
communicating weekly/or monthly on how the partnership is working; and
annually reporting to each other’s board or owners on how well the partnership is
working and the results of their efforts to the taxpayers of Oakland County.
Existing Policies
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Date Adopted:
05-06-09
Dated Revised:
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E.Full disclosure by both partners to each other will be made available when issues
arise.
F.Training of each other’s staff on the respective partner’s values and yearly goals
and work plans will be performed annually so both partners are in-tune with issues
the partners may be dealing with that could affect the partnership policy or
agreement as it applies to finances, staffing, capital costs, political elements or
changes in operating philosophies.
IV. PROCEDURES:
A.All proposals for partnership must be submitted in writing using the Partnership
Proposal form to the Business Development Representative for Business
Management. The Business Representative will review and submit the proposal to
the Sponsorship and Partnership Team comprised of staff from various department
within Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission. The Sponsorship and
Partnership Team will review and provide comments, as well as make
recommendations to the Executive Officer.
B.The Executive Officer or his/her designee will review the proposal and make a
decision if the estimated expenditures for the partnership are less than $10,000 (cash
and/or in-kind). If the request is for more than $10,000 in estimated costs the
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission will act on the proposal.
C.If the Executive Officer approves the partnership proposal in principle, the Business
Development Representative will work with the staff involved in the partnership
efforts to draft a Partnership Agreement for signature. This agreement will include:
the contract relationship; the term and renewal opportunities; operational
responsibilities; descriptions of programs, the project, and activities to be provided;
description of fees, commissions and/or in-kind services; the marketing rights and
benefits provided by each partner; termination provisions; and performance measures
and reporting requirements expected on behalf of each partner.
V.PARTNERSHIP CATEGORIES:
A.Public / Public Partnerships
The policy for public/public partnerships is evident with the Oakland County Parks
and Recreation Commission working with cities, townships, schools, colleges, and
any other municipal services in Oakland County. Working together on the
development, sharing, and/or operating, parks and recreation facilities and programs
will be as follows:
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05-06-09
Dated Revised:
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Partnership Policy
1. Each partner will meet with the Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission staff annually to plan and share activity-based costs and equity
invested by each partner in the partnership.
2. Partners will establish measurable outcomes and work through key issues to
focus on for the coming year between each partner to meet the outcomes
desired.
3. Each partner will be managed on an individual relationship basis and track
investment costs accordingly.
4. Each partner will assign a liaison to serve each partnership agency for
communication and planning purposes.
5. Measurable outcomes will be reviewed quarterly and shared with each
partner, with adjustments made as needed.
6. Each partner will act as an agent for the other partner, thinking collectively as
one, not two separate agencies for purposes of the agreement.
7.Each partner will meet with the other partner’s respective board or owner
annually, to share results of the partnership agreement.
8. A working partnership agreement will be developed and monitored together
on a quarterly or as-needed basis.
9. If conflicts arise between partners, the Executive Officer of Oakland County
Parks and Recreation Commission along with the other public agency’s
highest ranking officer will meet to resolve the partnership issue. It should be
resolved at the highest level or the partnership will be dissolved.
10. No exchange of money between partners will be made until the end of the
partnership year. A running credit will be established that can be settled at
the end of the planning year with one check or will be carried over to the
following year as a credit with adjustments made to the working agreement to
meet the 50% equity level desired.
B.Public/Not-For-Profit Partnerships
The partnership policy for public/not-for-profit partnerships with Oakland County
Parks and Recreation Commission and the not-for-profit community of service
providers is seen in associations working together in the development and
management of facilities and programs within the Oakland County Parks and
Recreation Commission system. These principles are as follows:
1. The not-for-profit partner agency or group involved with Oakland County
Parks and Recreation Commission must first recognize that they are in a
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Dated Revised:
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Partnership Policy
partnership with the commission to provide a public service or good;
conversely, the commission must manage the partnership in the best
interest of the community as a whole, not in the best interest of the not-for-
profit agency.
2. The partnership working agreement will be year-to-year and evaluated
based on the outcomes determined for the partnership agencies or groups
during the planning process at the start of the partnership year. At the
planning workshop, each partner will share their needs for the partnership
and outcomes desired. Each partner will outline their level of investment
in the partnership as it applies to money, people, time, equipment, and the
amount of capital investment they will make in the partnership for the
coming year.
3. Each partner will focus on meeting a balance of equity as established in
the planning session with the Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission. Each partner will demonstrate to the other the method each
will use to track costs, and how it will be reported on a monthly basis, and
any revenue earned.
4. Each partner will appoint a liaison to serve each partnering agency for
communication purposes.
5. Measurable outcomes will be reviewed quarterly and shared with each
partner, with adjustments made, as needed.
6. Each partner will act as an agent for the other partner to think collectively
as one, not two separate agencies. Items such as financial information will
be shared if requested by either partner of the people served by the
partnership.
7.Each partner will meet the other’s respective board on a yearly basis to
share results of the partnership agreement.
8. If conflicts should arise during the partnership year, the Oakland County
Parks and Recreation Commission Executive Officer and the highest-
ranking officer of the not-for-profit agency will meet to resolve the issue.
It should be resolved at this level, or the partnership will be dissolved. No
other course of action will be allowed by either partner.
9. Financial payments by the not-for-profit agency will be made monthly to
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission as outlined in the
working agreement to meet the 50% equity level of the partnership.
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Dated Revised:
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C.Public / Private Partnerships
The policy for public/private partnerships is relevant to the Oakland County Parks
and Recreation Commission and includes businesses, private groups, private
associations, or individuals who desires to make a profit from use of commission
facilities or programs. It would also be evident if the business, group, association, or
individual wishes to develop a facility on park property, to provide a service on
county-owned property, or who has a contract with the commission to provide a task
or service on the county’s behalf at Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission facilities. The partnership principles are as follows:
1. Upon entering into an agreement with a private business, group, association
or individual, the commissioners and Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission and staff must recognize that they must allow that entity to make
a profit.
2. In developing a public/private partnership, the Oakland County Parks and
Recreation Commission and staff, as well as the private partner will enjoy a
designated fee from the contracting agency, or a designated fee plus a
percentage of gross dollars less sales tax on a monthly, quarterly or yearly
basis, as outlined in the contract agreement.
3. In developing a public/private partnership, the commission, Oakland County
Park and Recreation Commission and staff, as well as contracted partners will
establish a set of measurable outcomes to be achieved. A tracking method of
those outcomes will be established and monitored by Oakland County Parks
and Recreation Commission and staff. The outcomes will include standards
of quality, financial reports, customer satisfaction, payments to the
commission, and overall coordination with the commission for the services
rendered.
4. Depending on the level of investment made by the private contractor, the
partnership agreement can be limited to months, a year or multiple years.
5. The private contractor will provide on a yearly basis a working management
plan they will follow to ensure the outcomes desired by the commission and
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission and staff. The work
management plan can and will be negotiated, if necessary. Monitoring of the
work management plan will be the responsibility of both partners. The
commission and Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission and staff
must allow the contractor to operate freely in their best interest, as long as the
outcomes are achieved.
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6. The commission has the right to advertise for private contracted partnership
services, or negotiate on an individual basis with a bid process based on the
professional level of the service to be provided.
7.If conflicts arise between both partners, the highest-ranking officers from
both sides will try to resolve the issue before going to each partner’s legal
councils. If none can be achieved, the partnership shall be dissolved.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Approved:
06-03-09
Dated Revised:
06/29/2022
C: 09-007
Page 1 of 5
Parks Access Permit Policy
I.PURPOSE: The purpose of this policy is to provide Oakland County Commissioners, Oakland
County Parks and Recreation Commissioners and Parks and Recreation employees and other
partners with access to County owned and operated parks, pursuant to duties outlined in the State
of Michigan Public Act 261 of 1965:
Public Act 261 authorizes the creation and prescribes “the powers and duties of county and
regional parks and recreation commissions; and prescribes the powers and duties of county
boards of commissioners with respect to county and regional parks and recreation
commissions.”
Pursuant to Act 261 the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission (OCPRC) is
an agency of the County.
OCPRC may plan, develop, preserve, administer, maintain and operate park and
recreational places and facilities and construct, reconstruct, alter and renew buildings and
other structures.
The Act ensures that OCPRC has the custody, control and management of all real and
personal property acquired by the County for public parks, preserves, parkways,
playgrounds, recreation centers, wildlife areas, lands reserved for flood conditions for
impounding runoff water, and other county conservation or recreation purposes.
Oakland County Commissioners, Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commissioners, Parks
and Recreation employees and other partners serve as parks ambassadors to inform the public
about the Oakland County Parks and to increase attendance to the Oakland County Parks. This
policy allows these individuals to become familiar with Oakland County Park's property and
facilities in order to gain the information and experiences required for them to effectively market
and promote Parks facilities, provide input regarding strategic planning and make decisions
regarding the management of Oakland County Parks.
II.PROCEDURE: The OCPRC mission is to provide all residents quality recreation experiences that
encourage healthy lifestyles, support economic prosperity, promote the protec tion of natural
resources and enhance the quality of life throughout Oakland County. The procedure outlined
below is designed to provide a mechanism by which Commissioners and parks employees can assist
with helping to achieve this mission statement.
Definitions:
•“Annual Vehicle Permit” – provides access to parks for day use.
•“Parks Access Permit” – Each Parks Access Permit book includes four (4) single-use
access permits which provide single-use access to five (5) golf courses, two (2)
campgrounds, two (2) waterparks and Holly Oaks ORV park operated by Oakland
County Parks and Recreation Commission.
•“Commissioners” – refers to Oakland County Board of Commissioners and Oakland
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Dated Revised:
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Parks Access Permit Policy
County Parks and Recreation Commissioners. In situations where an Oakland County
Board of Commissioners member is also serving as a Parks Commissioner, access will be
granted for the individual, not for both positions.
•“Business Reason” - The business reason should adhere to Internal Revenue Service
guidelines as follows:
o The main purpose is directly related to active County or Park-related operations;
the individual utilizing the Parks Access Permit is engaged in Park business
during the course of using the facility; there is more than a general expectation of
getting business benefit from use of the Parks facility; OR
o The main purpose of the use of the Parks Access Permit is associated with Parks
related operations and either the use thereof directly precedes or follows a
substantial business discussion.
•“Other partners” – refers to individuals and groups that the Oakland County Parks and
Recreation Commission works with to fulfill its mission. This may include
representatives from local Cities, Villages and Townships, other recreation and
conservation authorities, private business sponsors, non-profit organizations or any
individual or group that is not a Commissioner or employee but supports its mission.
A.Commissioners
1.Annual Vehicle Permits will be issued in January for each calendar year.
a.Board of Commissioners will receive an Oakland County Resident
vehicle permit. The Annual Vehicle Permit provides access to Oakland
County day use parks.
b.Parks Commissioners will receive an annual joint access permit which
gives access to Oakland County day use parks as well as thirteen (13)
Huron-Clinton Metroparks.
c.A copy of the Rules and Regulations for Oakland County Parks will be
included with the Annual Vehicle Permit.
d.Commissioners are to adhere the Annual Vehicle Permit issued to them
to the lower corner of the driver’s side of the windshield of their personal
vehicle to gain access to the parks. The Annual Vehicle Permit is not
valid unless it is adhered to the windshield of a motor vehicle.
2.Parks Access Permits
a.Staff will provide Commissioners a “Request for Initial Distribution of
Parks Access Permits” form to request Parks Access Permits for facility
access each January for the current calendar year.
b.Commissioners will be asked to check ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to indicate whether
or not they would like to receive Parks Access Permits and return the
completed form to Administrative Services staff.
c.Commissioners may request up to four (4) Parks Access Permit books
for use at facilities where a fee is required.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Approved:
06-03-09
Dated Revised:
06/29/2022
C: 09-007
Page 3 of 5
Parks Access Permit Policy
d.Parks Access Permits are to be used by Commissioners to promote,
showcase, and evaluate park facilities.
e.Commissioners and their guests will be asked to provide information
including their name and an email address each time a Parks Access
Permit is used.
f.Commissioners may request additional Parks Access Permits by
contacting the Parks and Recreation Director, or his designee in writing
by completing the “Request for Additional Distribution of Parks Access
Permits” form. A business reason must be provided at the time of the
request.
3.Evaluation and Feedback
a.Staff will send an email request as follow up to the use of each Parks
Access Permit.
b.Commissioners and their guests will be asked to complete an online
survey evaluation to provide feedback that will be used to make
decisions regarding the management of the Parks. The request for this
feedback will follow their experience at the facility where the Parks
Access Permit was used.
c.The data provided on the evaluation will be analyzed by staff and used to
make corrections and improvements as needed to ensure quality
experiences for guests.
d.Commissioners and/or their guests will receive a request for feedback
each time a Parks Access Permit is used.
B.Parks and Recreation employees
1.All current Oakland County Parks and Recreation employees will receive an
Oakland County Parks vehicle permit annually.
a.The Annual Vehicle Permit provides access to Oakland County day use
parks.
b.Parks and Recreation employees are expected to follow all Park Rules
and Regulations at all times when on park property.
2.Parks Access Permits
a.Employees may be issued up to three (3) Parks Access Permit books for
use at facilities where a fee is required.
b.Employees will receive an email with a survey request as follow up to
the use of each Parks Access Permit.
c.The feedback provided on the survey will be sent to the park Supervisor
of the facility to make improvements as needed to ensure quality
experiences for guests.
3.To eliminate or reduce disruption to park guests, the use of Park Access Permits
by employees shall be subject to the following limitations:
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Approved:
06-03-09
Dated Revised:
06/29/2022
C: 09-007
Page 4 of 5
Parks Access Permit Policy
a.Golf:
i.Walk in only
ii.Weekdays – Anytime
iii.Weekends and Holidays ‐After 2:00 p.m. (12:00 p.m.‐
2:00 p.m. with supervisor approval)
iv.For individual play only and do not apply to leagues,
outings, etc.
v.Employees may bring 3 guests (use 4 visits at a time)
additional guests must pay for golf and cart at their
qualifying rate.
b.Campgrounds
i.Valid Sun-Thurs, excluding Holidays and Special
Events
ii.Visit applies to campsite fee only, no cabins, yurts or
group areas
iii.Employees may make reservations in advance in person
or by phone
iv.Employee may apply visits up to 2 campsites per night
(use up to 10 visits at a time)
v.All equipment must be provided by the employee
c.Waterpark entry
i.employees may bring 3 guests (use 4 visits at a time), other
guests must pay at their qualifying rate
d.ORV park entry for vehicle
i.does not have to be the employee’s vehicle, employee may
bring 1 guest (use 2 visits at a time)
4.Implementation and Administration
a.The Director of Parks and Recreation is authorized to enact policies and
procedures that supplement this Policy to administer the Employee
Access Permit program to conform with federal, state and county
regulatory requirements.
C.Other partners
1.The Director of Parks and Recreation is authorized to implement the policies and
procedures listed above to other partners as necessary to support the mission of
the OCPRC which includes access to public parks, preserves, trails and
recreation programming.
a.Annual Vehicle Permits may be issued on an ad hoc basis.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Approved:
06-03-09
Dated Revised:
06/29/2022
C: 09-007
Page 5 of 5
Parks Access Permit Policy
i.The Annual Vehicle Permit is not valid unless it is adhered to the
windshield of a motor vehicle.
ii.Visitors and guests are expected to follow all Park Rules and
Regulations at all times when on park property.
b.Parks Access Permits may be requested by contacting the Parks and
Recreation Director, or his designee
i.A business reason must be provided at the time of the request.
ii.Distribution of Parks Access Permits to other partners will be
tracked by in the same format as Commissioners, by using the
“Request for Additional Distribution of Parks Access Permits”
form.
Change Control Record
Revision
Date
Owner Description of Change
06-03-09 S. Mackey New Policy Adopted
07-25-12 S. Mackey Removed specific references to PA 261 in section I.
Removed II.A.4. and II.B. NOTE to reduce
redundancy.
01-15-13 S. Mackey II.B.1. Replaced ‘December’ with ‘January’ and
‘following’ with ‘current’ to reflect timing of
distribution.
03-20-13 S. Mackey Updated Section II A to ‘Commissioners’, including
sections for Annual Vehicle Permits, Parks Access
Permits and Evaluation. Updated Section II B to
‘Parks staff’ to better reflect the differences in roles
and responsibilities of each.
01-26-22 S. Mackey Updated mission statement listed in the PROCEDURE
section
Updated Section B. Parks staff to issue Annual Vehicle
Permits to all employees
Added Sections B.2 Parks Access Permits and B. 3
Implementation and Administration
02-10-22 Revisions approved by OCPRC
06-17-22 Drafted section II.C. to indicate “Other partners”
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Approved:
10-07-09
Dated Revised:
03-28-13
C: 09-008
Page 1 of 6
Parks Promotional Items Policy
I.PURPOSE: This purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines for ordering and distribution of
Oakland County Parks and Recreation promotional items and printed materials. The primary
purpose of promotional items and printed materials is to encourage use of park facilities operated
by the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission while also increasing attendance at its
programs and special events.
Definitions:
“Promotional items” may include but are not limited to items with the Oakland
County Parks logo and/or web address designed as a memory maker or small gift.
“Printed materials: includes brochures, flyers, posters and other printed materials.
“Family Fun Passbook” is a sampling of coupons for use of various parks and
amenities, including camping, day use, golfing, and waterpark entry valued at $150.
“Commissioners” refers to both members of the Oakland County Board of
Commissioners and Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission.
II.PROCEDURE FOR PROMOTIONAL ITEMS
A.Ordering
1. The Communications and Marketing Unit will coordinate the selection and
ordering of promotional items annually.
2. Only supervisory staff can request promotional items through the annual
budget process.
3. The Communications and Marketing Unit will select a limited number of
promotional items from which supervisors can order, based on the dollar
amount budgeted for this expense.
4. Each budget center will pay for the items ordered.
5. The Communications and Marketing Unit budget will cover the cost of the
Commission-designated items, not to exceed $7,500 annually for all
Commissioners.
B.Distribution
1. Parks staff
a.The Communications and Marketing Unit will coordinate the
distribution of promotional items ordered to staff to store at their
facility.
b. Supervisors will decide the methods and special event, program or
facility at which to distribute the items.
2. Commissioners
a.Commissioners will each receive 500 promotional items per person
per fiscal year.
b. In situations where a member of the Oakland County Board of
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Approved:
10-07-09
Dated Revised:
03-28-13
C: 09-008
Page 2 of 6
Parks Promotional Items Policy
Commissioners is also serving as a Parks Commissioner, items will
be granted once, not for both positions.
c.The purpose is for Commissioners to promote the Oakland County
Parks.
d. Each Commissioner will decide whether to take all their items at
one time or have the items stored by the Communications and
Marketing Unit and distributed at a later time.
e.Commissioners will determine where to distribute the promotional
items allotted to them, with the consideration that distribution of
the promotional items shall comply with the mission of the
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission.
f.When requesting items for distribution, Commissioners must give
five days’ notice to the Communications and Marketing Unit by
telephone or email to pull a quantity of items when needed.
g.In an effort to reduce postage costs, the promotional items must be
picked up at the Oakland County Parks Administration Office and
will not be mailed or delivered by Parks staff.
h. The Communications and Marketing Unit will maintain a record of
promotional items given to each Commissioner detailing the date,
type and number of promotional items.
i.If a Commissioner uses all of his/her promotional items before the
end of the fiscal year, no further promotional items will be
allocated that fiscal year.
III.PROCEDURE FOR PRINT MATERIAL
A.Ordering
1. The Communications and Marketing Unit will coordinate the design,
development and ordering of all printed materials used to promote
Oakland County Parks facilities, programs and special events.
2. The Communications and Marketing Unit will maintain a stock of
standard printed materials based on the dollar amount budgeted for this
expense.
3. Supervisory staff can request custom printed materials through the internal
Communications Request process.
4. Each budget center will pay for custom printed materials specific to that
park facility or recreational program requested by a supervisor.
B.Distribution
1. The Communications and Marketing Unit will follow standard distribution
procedures to provide printed materials to the general public.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Approved:
10-07-09
Dated Revised:
03-28-13
C: 09-008
Page 3 of 6
Parks Promotional Items Policy
2. Supervisors will decide the methods and special event, program or facility
at which to distribute print materials.
3. Commissioners
a.Commissioners may request print material for distribution at
special events, programs or facilities that support the mission of the
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission.
b. When requesting print materials, Commissioners may contact the
Communications and Marketing Unit or administrative staff by
telephone or email.
c.In an effort to reduce postage costs, it is requested that the printed
materials be picked up at the Oakland County Parks
Administration Office.
IV. PROCEDURE FOR EXTERNAL REQUESTS
A.Non-profit organizations
1. In situations where non-profit organizations within, or affiliated with,
Oakland County request promotional items from the Oakland County
Parks and Recreation Commission, one Oakland County Parks Family Fun
Passbook may be issued to each organization annually.
2. Requests must be submitted to the Administrative Services unit in writing
at least two weeks prior to the date the Family Fun Passbook is needed and
must include the following information: name of the organization, type of
event, and contact information.
3. Administrative parks staff will confirm that the organization is a non-
profit organization within Oakland County that has not received a Family
Fun Passbook within the past 12 months prior to distribution of the Family
Fun Passbook.
4. For approved requests, the Family Fun Passbook will be mailed to the
requestor or may be picked up at the Administration Office Front Desk
during regular business hours.
5. Administrative staff will keep a list of organizations that receive Family
Fun Passbooks.
B.Evaluation
1. All requests will be evaluated based on the opportunity to increase
awareness of Oakland County Parks and Recreation offerings, attendance
or revenue.
2. Organizations who receive Family Fun Passbooks from the Oakland
County Parks and Recreation Commission will be asked to provide a
marketing opportunity, including but not limited to:
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Approved:
10-07-09
Dated Revised:
03-28-13
C: 09-008
Page 4 of 6
Parks Promotional Items Policy
a.Listing Oakland County Parks in an event program
b.Making announcements about Oakland County Parks’ during the
event where promotional items are distributed
c.Distributing print materials that promote Oakland County Parks at
the event
d.Linking to DestinationOakland.com from the organization’s
website and/or
e.Other promotional activity that encourages use of the Oakland
County Parks.
III.LIMITATIONS FOR USE OF PROMOTIONAL ITEMS/FAMILY FUN PASSBOOKS
A.The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission is a non-partisan
organization that strives to meet the recreation needs of all County residents and
regional visitors. Oakland County Parks promotional items/family fun passbooks
are for public education and park promotion only.
B.In an effort to contain costs and ensure that promotional items are used only at
special events, facilities and programs that represent and/or promote the Oakland
County Parks, promotional items will only be distributed to Oakland County
Parks staff and Commissioners.
C.Commissioners will not have input on the selection of promotional items, as
orders will be coordinated to achieve the lowest price per piece possible.
D.Commissioners will be limited to the stock print materials provided by the
Communications and Marketing Unit and may no request customized printed
materials.
E.No personal information shall be placed on any promotional items or printed
materials provided by the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission.
F.Promotional items and printed materials shall not be altered in any way.
G.Promotional items and printed materials provided by the Oakland County Parks
and Recreation Commission are not to be used for campaign purposes.
H.In an effort promote fairness and equity in distribution, requests for items to assist
private individuals (such as medical fundraisers) will not be fulfilled.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Approved:
10-07-09
Dated Revised:
03-28-13
C: 09-008
Page 5 of 6
Parks Promotional Items Policy
Change Control Record
Revision
Date
Owner Description of Change
10-07-09 D. Stanfield New Policy Adopted
10-10-11 S. Mackey I. Purpose: shortened text and moved Definitions to this
section
II. Procedure for Promotional Items: reformatted to add
ordering and distribution sections
III. Procedure for Print Material: reformatted to add ordering
and distribution sections
IV. Procedure for External Requests: combined Family Fun
Passbooks and Other Requests into one section
Added section:
V. Limitations for use of Promotional Items:
A.The Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission is a non-partisan organization that
strives to meet the recreation needs of all County
residents and regional visitors. Commissioners are
not permitted to put their personal information on
any Oakland County Parks promotional item,
including printed materials.
B.In an effort to contain costs and ensure that
promotional items are used only at special events,
facilities and programs that represent and/or
promote the Oakland County Parks, promotional
items will only be distributed to Oakland County
Parks staff and Commissioners. No outside
requests for promotional items will be honored.
C.Commissioners will not have input on the selection
of promotional items, as orders will be coordinated
to achieve the lowest price per piece possible.
D.Commissioners will be limited to the stock print
materials provided by the Communications Unit
when requesting brochures, flyers, posters, etc.
E.In an effort promote fairness and equity in
distribution, requests for items to assist private
individuals (such as medical fundraisers) will not
be fulfilled.
05-18-12 ‘D. Stanfield Changed 14 occurrences of “Communications Unit” to
“Communications and Marketing Unit” to reflect
organizational change.
01-15-13 S. Mackey II.B. Replaced ‘Fundraisers’ with ‘Other Requests’
II.B.1. Added ‘If a Parks Commissioner is asked to consider
a special request, the Commissioner may present this
request to the Executive Officer’. Removed ‘such as a non-
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Approved:
10-07-09
Dated Revised:
03-28-13
C: 09-008
Page 6 of 6
Parks Promotional Items Policy
profit organization based in Oakland County requesting a
round of golf for a fundraiser, they may be granted Non -
profit organizations will be allowed one foursome of golf
with carts annually to be used at Glen Oaks, Springfield
Oaks, or White Lake Oaks per year. The organization must
use it for a fundraiser, and the request must come through a
Parks Commissioner’
Added 2. ‘Requests for promotional items not previously
listed in this policy will be evaluated based on the
opportunity to increase awareness of Oakland County Parks
and Recreation offerings, attendance or revenue.’
II.B.4. Changed ‘rounds of golf as a fundraiser opportunity’
to ‘items’.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
04/14/10
Dated Revised:
01/24/24
C: 10-001
Page 1 of 4
Volunteer Policy
I.PURPOSE: The purpose of this policy is to outline the process that Oakland County
Parks and Recreation staff uses to manage volunteers at various facilities, programs and
events.
II.PROCEDURE:
A.General Guidelines
1.The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Director or his/her designee
shall oversee the implementation and interpretation of this policy.
2.No volunteer shall be allowed to perform volunteer services without a
signed Volunteer Agreement, Criminal Background Check, and Waiver of
Liability (collectively the “Agreement”). The Agreement must be signed
annually.
3.Criminal background checks will be conducted on Adult Volunteers ages
18 and up annually at the renewal of the Agreement. These background
checks may include, but not be limited to, access to the Nationwide Sex
Offender Registry, Nationwide Criminal Database, Social Security
Address Trace, Sex Offender Database and Nationwide Sex Offender
Registry
4.The Volunteer Coordinator shall have responsibility for working with Park
Supervisors and Recreation Program Supervisors (Park/Program
Supervisors) on recruitment, selection, orientation, training and retention
of volunteers.
A.Recruitment & Selection
1.The Volunteer Coordinator will work with Park/Program Supervisors to
document volunteer position descriptions for each volunteer opportunity.
2.Park/Program Supervisors will request volunteers for various positions,
operations schedules, programs, and events by contacting the Volunteer
Coordinator.
3.The Volunteer Coordinator will use a variety of methods to post volunteer
opportunities, e.g., websites, social media. e-marketing messages, fliers,
and other communications.
4.Individuals interested in volunteer positions must contact the Volunteer
Services Office. Contact can be made in many different ways, depending
on the volunteer opportunity:
a.Online
b.By email
c.By phone
d.Through a referral from a Park/Program Supervisor
5.Selection of volunteers will comply with Oakland County’s Equal
Employee Opportunity Policy.
6.No volunteer shall be assigned to a Park/Program Supervisor who is a
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
04/14/10
Dated Revised:
01/24/24
C: 10-001
Page 2 of 4
Volunteer Policy
relative of the volunteer. For the purpose of this rule, a "relative" shall be
a person holding the following relationship to the employee, whether that
relationship is natural, adoptive, step or foster in nature:
Spouse
Child
Parent
Brother
Sister
Grandparent
Grandchild
First Cousin
Uncle
Aunt
Niece
Nephew
Parent-in-law
Child-in-law
Brother-in-law
Sister-in-law
7.The Volunteer Coordinator will ensure that all volunteers complete an
application and Agreement & Waiver.
a.The Volunteer Coordinator will review all volunteer applications
and conduct necessary background checks to determine eligibility
for a facility, program or event.
b.The Volunteer Coordinator may conduct an initial phone screening
to gauge if the applicant is a possible fit for a volunteer position.
c.Contact information for potential volunteers are forwarded to
appropriate Park Supervisor for review. The Park Supervisor may
contact the potential volunteer for follow up and will confirm the
volunteer assignment with the Volunteer Coordinator.
d.The Volunteer Coordinator will assign eligible volunteers to
various programs and events.
8.If the potential volunteer is not a fit for current needs, the Volunteer
Coordinator will communicate with that person to thank them for their
interest and encourage them to consider future opportunities.
C.Orientation and Training
1.Orientation will be conducted at the location where the individual will
perform volunteer services or if applicable at a general volunteer
orientation. This decision is made at the discretion of the Park/Program
Supervisor working with the Volunteer Coordinator and may be in a
formal group setting or informal 1:1 format.
a.Orientation may include an organizational overview, review of
Oakland County Park and Recreation Rules and volunteer
expectations for the assigned facility, program or event.
b.Volunteers will be given the opportunity to ask questions about the
volunteer position, operation, program, or event as needed.
2.Training on position duties may be conducted by the Park/Program
Supervisor, Volunteer Coordinator, or any other staff member designated
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
04/14/10
Dated Revised:
01/24/24
C: 10-001
Page 3 of 4
Volunteer Policy
by the Park/Program Supervisor.
3.Training may occur on an as-needed basis related to volunteer duties at the
discretion of the Park/Program Supervisor.
D.Supervision and Evaluation of Volunteers
1.Supervision and evaluation of volunteers is important to ensure adequate
training is provided and verify satisfactory conduct and performance.
2.Volunteer schedules must be established by Park/Program Supervisors in
advance.
a.Exceptions to established and previously communicated operations
schedules must be approved by the Park Supervisor or their
designee at a facility to ensure adequate and appropriate coverage
for the facility.
b.Changes to program and event schedules must be communicated to
the Volunteer Services Office so changes can be communicated to
volunteers.
3.Volunteer time reporting must be approved by a staff member who has
direct knowledge of the volunteer’s service and is not a relative of the
volunteer as defined in section B.6. of this policy.
a.Park Supervisors or their designee will audit volunteer time to
ensure that hours reported are accurate.
b.The Volunteer Services Office will work with Program
Supervisors to confirm the time reported for various programs and
event sign in sheets.
4.In an effort to maintain a mutually beneficial relationship, volunteer
performance will be reviewed at the discretion of the Park/Program
Supervisor with input from the Volunteer Coordinator.
5.The Volunteer Coordinator will initiate periodic reviews with
Park/Program Supervisors as necessary to ensure that current volunteer
expectations, positions and schedules are effective for the facility,
program or event and support volunteer retention efforts.
6.The Director or his/her designee, at their sole discretion, may terminate a
volunteer for any reason.
E.Rewards and Recognition of Volunteer Service
1.Recognition of volunteer service may take many forms, depending on the
nature of the volunteer service.
2.In accordance with the Agreement, volunteers may be eligible for free
and/or discounted passes or programs, pursuant to the rules, policies, and
expectations established for the Volunteer Program. Volunteer benefits
are specified in each volunteer position description for individual
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
04/14/10
Dated Revised:
01/24/24
C: 10-001
Page 4 of 4
Volunteer Policy
operations or programs.
3.Rewards and Recognition of Volunteer Service are provided solely as an
incidental benefit and do not constitute compensation for services.
4.The Director or his/her designee has the authority to review and approve
volunteer positions and associated volunteer benefits.
5.Recognition events may be held on a periodic basis to promote volunteer
knowledge of facilities, programs, and events as well as appreciation for
volunteers and relationship building between volunteers and paid staff.
6.The Director or his/her designee will review and approve expenses for
volunteer recognition events consistent with Commission/County budget
policies and procedures.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
05-02-2012
Dated Revised:
09-04-2013
Policy #
C12-001
Page 1 of 7
Other Power-Driven Mobility Device
Policy – to Comply with Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA)
I.INTRODUCTION.
On September 15, 2010 the United States Department of Justice amended the regulations
governing nondiscrimination on the basis of disability in state and local government
services, effective March 15, 2011. 28 CFR § 35.137. This regulation requires public
entities to permit use of wheelchairs and other manually-powered mobility aids by
individuals with mobility disabilities and to make reasonable modifications to its policies
to permit use of other power-driven mobility devices (OPDMD) by individuals with
mobility disabilities in areas open to pedestrian use.
II. PURPOSE.
The purpose of this policy is to address the use of OPDMDs by individuals with mobility
disabilities on trails or pathways located on the following: (1) properties owned and
operated by OCPRC and (2) properties managed by OCPRC under a lease, easement or
use agreement.
Based on the criteria set forth in the regulation, OCPRC staff completed a comprehensive
assessment and review of each trail and pathway on OCPRC property to determine which
types of OPDMDs are appropriate for use on each route. Information provided herein
describes the types of OPDMDs that are authorized for use on OCPRC trails and
pathways.
III. PROCEDURE.
A.Definitions.
1. Wheelchair means “a manually-operated or power-driven device designed
primarily for use by an individual with a mobility disability for the main purpose
of indoor, or of both indoor and outdoor locomotion.” 28 CFR § 35.104.
2. Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Device (EPAMD) means a self-balancing
non-tandem, two-wheeled device, designed to transport only one person at a time,
having an electrical propulsion system with average power of 750 watts or one
horsepower and a maximum speed on a paved level surface of not more than 15
miles per hour (Michigan Vehicle Code Act #300 of the Public Acts of 1949,
257.13c). A common example of an EPAMD is a Segway scooter, or an Electrical
Assisted Bicycle (EAB).
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
05-02-2012
Dated Revised:
09-04-2013
Policy #
C12-001
Page 2 of 7
Other Power-Driven Mobility Device
Policy – to Comply with Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA)
3. Other Power-Driven Mobility Device (OPDMD) means any mobility device
powered by batteries, fuel, or other engines––whether or not designed primarily
for use by individuals with mobility disabilities––that is used by individuals with
mobility disabilities for the purpose of locomotion, including golf cars, electronic
personal assistance mobility devices (EPAMDs), such as the Segway Personal
Transporter or an electrical assisted bicycle, or any mobility device designed to
operate in areas without defined pedestrian routes, but that is not a wheelchair, as
defined herein (28 CFR § 35.104).
4. Valid Disability Placard or Card means a card presented by the person to whom it
was issued and is in compliance with the state of issuance’s requirements for
disability placards or cards (28 CFR § 35.137).
B.Assessment Factors. The following assessment factors were considered in determining
whether a particular OPDMD would be allowed in a specific area as a reasonable
accommodation:
1. The type, size, weight, dimensions, and speed of the OPDMD;
2. The area’s volume of pedestrian traffic;
3. The area’s design and operational characteristics;
4. Whether legitimate safety requirements can be established to permit the safe
operation of the OPDMD in the specific area; and
5. Whether the use of the OPDMD creates a substantial risk of serious harm to the
immediate environment, natural or cultural resources, or creates a conflict with
Federal land management laws and regulations.
C.Eligibility for Operation of OPDMD.
1. The operator or passenger of an OPDMD must be an individual with a mobility
disability and, upon request of an OCPRC employee or volunteer, must provide
credible assurance that the OPDMD is required because of the individual’s
mobility disability. Credible assurance may be provided by either of the
following:
a)A valid, state-issued, disability parking placard or card or other state-
issued proof of disability; or
b) A verbal representation, not contradicted by observable fact, that the
OPDMD is being used for a mobility disability.
2. OCPRC employees or volunteers shall not ask an individual using an OPDMD
about the nature and extent of the individual’s disability.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
05-02-2012
Dated Revised:
09-04-2013
Policy #
C12-001
Page 3 of 7
Other Power-Driven Mobility Device
Policy – to Comply with Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA)
D.OPDMD Rules.
1. Prohibited Devices. The following devices are prohibited on OCPRC trails and
pathways:1:
a)Gas or combustible fuel-powered devices because: (1) exhaust and noise
emissions from the devices will disturb or damage OCPRC natural or cultural
resources or the out-of-doors experience for other park patrons; (2) use of these
devices on park trails by a park patron would cause a legitimate safety concern for
other trail users; and (3) the trail surface damage that would occur from the tires
and high-power capabilities of these devices. These devices may be used by
OCPRC employees or volunteers only when necessary for operational and
maintenance purposes, so as to minimize any unnecessary negative effect on the
trail environment and aesthetic or safety impact to trail users.
b) Electric-powered devices, such as electric motorcycles and mopeds
(except for EPAMDs and EABs), because of: (1) the typical high speeds at which
these devices are driven; (2) the likely damage that will result to OCPRC trail and
pathway surfaces from their tires; and (3) some devices may only be permitted on
roads or private property by State law.
c)OPDMDs more than 48 inches wide because: (1) the width of many
OCPRC trails and pathways are about 8 feet wide; and (2) OPDMDs wider than
48 inches are potentially dangerous to users coming from the opposite direction or
from someone trying to pass the OPDMD from behind.
2. Speed of OPDMDs. For the safety of all individuals using OCPRC trails and
pathways, OPDMDs must be operated at the following speeds:
a)5 mph (maximum) when other users are present; and
b) 10 mph (maximum) when other users are not present.
3. An OPDMD must remain on OCPRC trails and pathways permitted for OPDMD
use at all times because leaving such trails or pathways could pose serious danger
to the OPDMD operator or other persons on OCPRC property.
4. An OPDMD must be capable of being turned around within the trail or pathway
tread in a safe manner.
1 With the exceptions noted in Section E.4.of this policy.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
05-02-2012
Dated Revised:
09-04-2013
Policy #
C12-001
Page 4 of 7
Other Power-Driven Mobility Device
Policy – to Comply with Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA)
5. Operators of permitted OPDMDs must yield the right-of-way to persons on foot,
horseback, or non-motorized devices (e.g., bicycles) and announce their presence
before passing another trail or pathway user.
6. An OPDMD must have the capacity to safely navigate trail and pathway features
and obstructions such as steps and other vertical displacements, ponded water,
loose gravel, and rocks.
7. The OPDMD shall not be operated in a manner that would poses danger to the
OPDMD operator(s), OCPRC employees or volunteers, the public, or that may
cause damage to OCPRC property.
8. OCPRC reserves the right to restrict OPDMD use during special events or during
times of heavy traffic on OCPRC trails or pathways, if such limitation is required,
in the opinion of OCPRC, to protect the public health, safety and welfare of park
patrons.
E.Trail and Pathway Rules. Based on the OCPRC review and assessment, trail and
pathways can be categorized into five different types, with specific limitations and
justifications as listed below:
1. Multi-Use Trails or Pathways – Paved or Unpaved. This type of trail or pathway
may be open to, but not limited to, users such as hikers, bicyclists, skaters, cross-
country skiers and/or equestrians.
a)Individuals with a mobility disability may use an OPDMD (as permitted
by OCPRC’s OPDMD rules), wheelchairs and other manually-powered mobility
aids.
b)Assessment Factors. Characteristics of some types of OPDMDs could
affect other trail or pathway users, based on the volume of traffic and operational
characteristics of the trail or pathway. These trails or pathways are typically high
capacity, two-way traffic areas, where width and speed restrictions must allow for
safe passing of OPDMDs, bicycles, equestrians and pedestrians.
2. Singletrack Mountain Bike Trail. This type of trail is typically three-to-four feet
wide and is one-way directional. Mountain bikers are the primary user group for
this trail and they often travel at high speeds (relative to other types of trail users).
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
05-02-2012
Dated Revised:
09-04-2013
Policy #
C12-001
Page 5 of 7
Other Power-Driven Mobility Device
Policy – to Comply with Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA)
a)Due to the existing design and user limitations, the only type of OPDMD
allowed on this trail is an electrical assisted bicycle (EAB).
b)Assessment Factors. Characteristics of most OPDMDs create a substantial
risk of serious harm to this type of trail, the surrounding environment and/or
natural resources. These are narrow trails where two-way traffic would harm
natural resources when allowing the passage of an OPDMD, other than a narrow-
width electric bicycle. Use of other OPDMDs would conflict with the intended
use and purpose of the trail for high-speed mountain bike traffic.
3. Trails only open to equestrian use, hikers and cross-country skiers (trails not
groomed).
a)Persons with a mobility disability may use an OPDMD (as permitted by
OCPRC’s OPDMD rules, with the exception of an electrical assisted bicycle),
wheelchairs and manually-powered mobility aids on this type of trail or pathway.
b)Assessment Factors. Regular (non-motorized) bicycles are excluded from
this type of trail so that equestrians can have a recreational trail experience with
only having to be aware of pedestrians as other users of the trail. Therefore,
electrical assisted bicycles are not permitted.
4. Paved Golf Cart Pathways at OCPRC Golf Courses.
a)Persons with a mobility disability may use an OPDMD (as permitted by
OCPRC’s OPDMD rules), wheelchairs, or other manually-powered mobility aids
on golf cart pathways if the device is to be used for the purpose of golf recreation.
b) Assessment Factors. Golf course paths are located in recreational settings
that are not appropriate for other trail devices, such as bicycles, horses, or
OPDMDs other than those suited/used for golfing use.
5. Seasonally Restricted Use Trails.
a)OPDMDs may not be used on these trails due to other predominant trail
uses or for the protection of the trail and surrounding environment.
b) Assessment Factors. In the winter months when snow conditions permit,
some park trails are groomed and used only for cross-country skiing, precluding
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
05-02-2012
Dated Revised:
09-04-2013
Policy #
C12-001
Page 6 of 7
Other Power-Driven Mobility Device
Policy – to Comply with Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA)
all other uses for that seasonal time, such as hiking, snowshoeing or dog-walking.
In other cases, intermittent closures may be required for trails that seasonally
flood or are susceptible to damage due to poor soil conditions.
IV. RESPONSIBILITY.
A.The OPDMD operator or passenger is responsible for ensuring the OPDMD works
properly, per manufacturer’s instructions.
B.OCPRC shall not provide battery charging or emergency retrieval of the OPDMD.
C.OCPRC shall not transport the OPDMD to and/or from OCPRC property.
D.OCPRC shall not store any privately-owned OPDMD.
E.The OPDMD operator assumes all risks of operating the OPDMD on OCPRC property
and shall operate the OPDMD in a safe manner at all times.
F.OCPRC recommends that an OPDMD user contact OCPRC at 248-858-0906 to confirm
that an OPDMD is permitted on a particular trail or pathway.
G.OCPRC does not represent that OCPRC Properties are safe for use by an OPDMD and
does not assume any liability for operation of the OPDMD. Certain risks are inherent in
the use of OPDMDs on OCPRC Properties.
V. UPDATES TO THIS POLICY. OCPRC may modify this policy from time to time as it
deems necessary or as required by law. It is the user’s responsibility to ensure that they are in
conformance with this policy.
A.Change to this policy, shall be posted on the OCPRC website, DestinationOakland.com ,
in advance of their adoption.
B.A hard copy of the most current OPDMD policy will be available for public review upon
request at the OCPRC Administrative Office and on the OCPRC website.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
05-02-2012
Dated Revised:
09-04-2013
Policy #
C12-001
Page 7 of 7
Other Power-Driven Mobility Device
Policy – to Comply with Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA)
Change Control Record
Revision Date Owner Description of Change
05-02-12 New Policy Adopted
05-06-13 S. Loria ‘III D. 1. a.) removed “fuel leaks and/or
sparks may result in pollution or fires on the
largely forested and/or grassy OCPR trails or
pathways”
‘III D. 1. a.) added “(2) use of these devices
on park trails by a park patron would cause a
legitimate safety concern for other trail users;
and (3) the trail surface damage that would
occur from the tires and high-power
capabilities of these devices.”
‘III D. 1. a.) added “so as to minimize any
unnecessary negative effect on the trail
environment and aesthetic or safety impact to
trail users.”
‘III D. 1. c.) changed the width of OPDMD’s
permitted from 36 to 48 inches
‘III E. 1 clarified possible user types on a
multi-use trail
‘III E. 2 clarified that mountain bikers are the
primary trail user for singletrack mountain
bike trails
‘III E. 4. a.) deleted “on only these types of
trails or pathways individuals may operate
OPDMDs wider than 36 inches”. Clarified
that an OPDMD may be used on golf cart
pathways if the device is to be used for the
purpose of golf recreation.
‘IV. F deleted “due to varying conditions on
OCPR property and to ensure safety and
natural resource protection…”.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
07-10-13
Dated Revised:
08-25-17
Policy #
C13-001
Page 1 of 3
Media Inquiry Policy
I.PURPOSE: The purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines to Oakland County Parks
and Recreation (OCPR) staff who are contacted by media sources requesting information
about the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission (Commission) and its
operations.
Definitions:
Media includes newspaper, magazine, internet, radio, and television opportunities
used to inform the public about OCPR programs and facilities.
II.PROCEDURE: Oakland County Parks are public facilities. The Communications and
Marketing unit strives to provide comprehensive and complete information to the public
through a variety of communication mechanisms. As an organization, OCPR will
respond to specific requests for information from the media using the following
protocols.
A.In order to ensure that accurate information is provided to the public regarding
OCPR facilities, projects, acquisitions, programs and events, the Commission
directs staff to refer all requests for information to the Supervisor of
Communications and Marketing in Administration.
1.The Supervisor of Communications and Marketing will ensure that a
response is provided to the media contact.
a.For information that is previously provided in print, the media
contact will be referred to the park system’s website,
OaklandCountyParks.com, or sent an email with this information.
b.For requests for photographs, a Communications and Marketing
staff member will be directed to follow up.
c.For inquiries regarding standard business operations related to
facilities, programs, events, or natural resources, the Supervisor of
Communications and Marketing may refer the media contact to a
staff member with the knowledge to respond to the inquiry.
d.For inquiries regarding Commission policies, decisions or other
public relations matter, the Supervisor of Communications and
Marketing will forward the contact to the Executive Officer for
follow up.
i.The Executive Officer will respond to the media contact
directly, or consult with the Commission Chairperson if
necessary.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
07-10-13
Dated Revised:
08-25-17
Policy #
C13-001
Page 2 of 3
Media Inquiry Policy
ii.If the Executive Officer is not available, the Commission
Chairperson will be contacted by a designated
Administrative staff member for follow up.
2.The Communications and Marketing unit will track all requests and follow
up to record results.
3.Staff members are only to speak to media when requested by the
Supervisor of Communications and Marketing or the Executive Officer.
4.If a media request is received outside of normal business hours (8:30-5:00
pm Monday – Friday), staff are directed to request media contact
information including a phone number and email address and forward this
information to the Supervisor of Communications and Marketing for
follow up.
B.If the media appears in person at a park facility, a full-time supervisor or
supervisor on duty should be contacted to meet with the media.
1.If a supervisor is not available, staff members may provide the media with
basic information and facts about facilities, such as fees, hours, attractions,
etc. that is already public information.
2.Staff members may refer to brochures, news releases, informational
posters, signs or OaklandCountyParks.com to obtain printed public
information or refer media to the website for additional follow up.
3.Staff members are directed not to offer their own opinion about topics,
issues, policies or operations to the media while working.
4.Staff members are directed to ask for the reporter’s name, and the radio,
television, newspaper, magazine or internet outlet they are representing
and forward this information to the Supervisor of Communications and
Marketing for follow up.
5.If the media choose to conduct interviews with guests, staff members are
asked to try to observe the media interactions with guests and make notes
on the questions and responses made during the interview.
6.If the media asks to interact with or obtain names of minor children in a
parks program, activity or event, staff overseeing the minors should
indicate to the media that they cannot interview the children or use the
names of minors without parental, teacher or chaperone consent.
7.Staff members are directed to provide any information observed during a
guest interview to the Supervisor of Communications and Marketing once
the media interview is completed.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
07-10-13
Dated Revised:
08-25-17
Policy #
C13-001
Page 3 of 3
Media Inquiry Policy
Change Control Record
Revision Date Owner Description of Change
08-25-17 S. Mackey II.A.1.a & II.B.2 Updated website address to
OaklandCountyParks.com
II.B.6 added section regarding release of names of
minors to media
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
04/07/2021
Dated Revised: C21-001
Page 1 of 1
2021-2029 Millage Initiatives Funding
Policy
I.BACKGROUND:
On February 6, 2019 the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission (OCPRC) adopted a
Recreation Partnership Policy to guide decision-making on partnering with local communities on
recreation projects. This policy supersedes and replaces the Recreation Partnership Policy adopted on
February 6, 2019.
On November 3, 2021, Oakland County voters approved a Parks and Recreation Millage at .35 mills. The
millage passed by 76%, demonstrating broad support among County residents. The millage, an increase
from the rolled-back .2310 mills, will allow OCPRC to perform/construct deferred capital improvement
projects and reinvest in parks and facilities across the County park system. The ballot language identified
several new initiatives to be developed and implemented, including: (1) Free annual vehicle passes for
seniors 62+, veterans and active military, and persons with permanent disabilities; (2) a Trailways Grant
Program to fund trail development throughout Oakland County; (3) a Park Improvements Grant Program to
fund local community park development projects; (4) increased programmatic outreach through the
Recreation Programs and Services Unit; and (5) dedicated funding for invasive species management
county-wide.
II.INTENT AND PURPOSE:
Except for the free annual pass initiative, the new initiatives, set forth above, require dedicated annual
funding to implement. The Trailways and Park Improvements Grant Programs require cash funding for
distribution, via a competitive grant process, to local communities for trail and park projects. The
programmatic outreach and invasive species initiatives also require dedicated funding to implement.
Fiscal Sustainability: These initiatives will support and be consistent with OCPRC’s mission to provide
quality recreation experiences that encourage healthy lifestyles, support economic prosperity and promote
the protection of natural resources. These initiatives will also support OCPRC’s goals of enhancing
communities and improving access to recreation. The new initiatives will not create an unreasonable
budgetary stress on fulfilling the existing and projected capital improvement and maintenance needs of
OCPRC, as measured in relation to the OCPRC Unrestricted Net Asset Policy. Unreasonable budgetary
stress is not created by the millage increase and new initiative development.
On an annual basis in conjunction with the budget development process, OCPRC staff will recommend
budget targets for each millage initiative (except for the Free Annual Passes), based on evaluation of
OCPRC’s overall budgetary needs including, but not limited to, capital improvement, maintenance, capital
equipment, and operations.
Grant Program Criteria and Procedures: Criteria, procedures, and documents for the Trailways and
Park Improvements Grant Programs will be developed, approved, and implemented by OCPRC. The
criteria and procedures will ensure that funded projects align OCPRC goals as identified in the Five-Year
Parks and Recreation Master Plan and/or the most recent county-wide recreation needs assessment.
OCPRC will select and approve the awards for the Grant Programs and the OCPRC Chairperson shall
execute the Grant Program Agreements.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
06-07-23
Date Revised: C: 23-001
Page 1 of 2
Nature Preserve Policy
I.PURPOSE
This policy exists to guide staff in the development, maintenance, and promotion of Nature Preserves.
Nature Preserves exist to:
A.Celebrate the ecological and cultural history of Oakland County Parks.
B.Improve the experiences of park patrons and connections with nature in Oakland County.
C.Improve regional biodiversity and resilience to climate change.
II.DEFINITIONS
A.NATURE PRESERVE: Nature Preserves are delineated areas within existing Oakland County
Parks or entire Parks that promote stewardship of the ecological biodiversity of a park, allow for
scientific study of plants and animals, provide interpretative opportunities, and encourage quiet
enjoyment of natural lands for Oakland County residents and future generations.
B.TRAIL STANDARDS: The Trail Standards identify trail specifications for trail uses within the
Oakland County Parks and Recreation (OCPR) system that are compliant with the Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) as well as development, operation, and maintenance processes that
minimize impacts on natural communities and resources, enhance the user experience, and
advance local and regional connectivity.
C.LEAVE NO TRACE PRINCIPLES: These seven principles were established by the Leave No
Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, and built on work by the US Forest Service, National Park
Service, and Bureau of Land Management. The principles are based on and informed by scientific
research in the fields of recreation ecology and human dimensions of natural resources. The seven
principles are: Plan ahead and prepare; travel and camp on durable surfaces; dispose of waste
properly; leave what you find; minimize campfire impacts; respect wildlife; and be considerate of
other visitors. (www.LNT.org)
III.PROCEDURE
A.Characteristics and Experiences:
1.Nature Preserves are ecologically important and/or beautiful green spaces that
highlight features such as lakes, flowing streams, woodland wildflowers, statuesque
trees, open prairies, wetlands, and are filled with interesting wildlife. 2.Nature Preserves highlight the cultural history and current cultural uses of parks to
help educate and connect Oakland County residents.
3.Park patrons will be able to explore and learn within Nature Preserves and leave
feeling peaceful, refreshed, and rejuvenated.
B.Infrastructure:
1.Investments should be minimal and include benches, boardwalks, overlooks, docks,
and restrooms.
2.Materials used for infrastructure should be sourced as locally as possible from
sustainable materials and have a neutral impact on surrounding natural communities.
3.Infrastructure should be sparse and thoughtfully placed.
C.Trails:
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
06-07-23
Date Revised: C: 23-001
Page 2 of 2
Nature Preserve Policy
1.Trail development shall comply with the OCPR Trail Standards.
2.Trails should be constructed and maintained using low-impact methods and have a
neutral impact on surrounding natural communities.
3.Trails should be limited, and surfaces should be prioritized for user experience,
wildlife crossing and stormwater infiltration.
4.Existing equestrian trails can continue to be utilized in areas designated as Nature
Preserves, but no new equestrian trails will be installed, and existing equestrian trails
may be re-routed to avoid sensitive ecological features.
D.Recreation:
1.Passive recreation is encouraged within Nature Preserves and includes hiking,
kayaking, access to water, hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, nature or
history/cultural interpretative events, or guided hikes.
2.Leave no trace principles will be posted and encouraged.
IV.Designation:
A.Staff shall propose areas to be designated to the Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission at regular meetings. A majority vote is required for designation.
B.Once designated, on-site signage and relevant printed or electronic communications shall be
updated to reflect changes.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
09-06-23
Dated Revised: Policy #
C23-002
Page 1 of 3
Net Position and Reserves Policy
I.PURPOSE:
The purpose of the Unrestricted Net Position and Reserves Policy is to ensure that there
will be adequate liquid resources to meet the minimum reserve targets established by the
Parks and Recreation Commission to provide financial and rate stability as well as the
ability to mitigate current and future risk that can occur from unforeseen revenue
fluctuations, unanticipated expenditure requirements, or other emergencies. An appropriate
balance level shall be maintained to ensure continued delivery of services, the financial
stability of Oakland County Parks and Recreation (OCPR) and cash flow liquidity to
support general operations. Determination of the appropriate targeted level of fund balance
shall be based on the principles, guidelines, and process set forth below. This policy
supersedes Commission Policy C15-001.
II.PRINCIPLES:
Consideration and projection of unrestricted net position and reserve levels is a critical
component of financial planning. The appropriate level of required balance should be
determined within the context of long-term forecasting and should avoid the risk of placing
too much emphasis upon the level as measured at any one point in time. A 5-year net
position forecast shall be developed in conjunction with the Commission’s multi-year
budget and long-term financial plan.
In general, use of net position and reserve fund should be limited to one-time expenditures,
such as for capital projects, projects of limited duration or the fulfillment of
intergovernmental grant funding obligations, that have measurable benefits for county
operations, guests of OCPR facilities, users of OCPR services and residents. It should be
recognized that continued use of net position and reserves funds to support ongoing
program expenditures is not sustainable in the long term. Thus, the Parks and Recreation
Commission’s guiding principle is to reduce and eliminate the use of these funds to resolve
ongoing structural operating budget shortfalls. If special conditions exist that necessitate
use of funds to support ongoing programs (caused by events such as a catastrophic
emergency or a prolonged economic downturn), it shall be for a limited duration to provide
essential services with a requirement that the Commission's long-term financial plan shall
include a strategy to restore or maintain a minimum balance and reserves in accordance
with the guidelines of this policy.
III.GUIDELINES:
Net Position and Reserve assignments shall consist of three major categories:
1.Net investment in capital assets
2.Restricted (i.e., Park and Trail Capital Grant reimbursements)
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
09-06-23
Dated Revised: Policy #
C23-002
Page 2 of 3
Net Position and Reserves Policy
3.Unrestricted
The minimum long-term fund balance level for the Budget Stabilization Reserve - also
referred to as the county's "Rainy Day Fund" - should be no less than 25% of annual
ongoing operating expenditures, equal to three months of operating expenditures, to protect
the continuity of services during an economic downturn.
The Parks and Recreation Commission and Director shall not take budgetary action that
lowers the projected fund balance below this level unless operating revenues have fallen
by a cumulative amount equal to 5% or greater of annual operating expenditures compared
to the most recent peak level or a formal determination is made that substantial
expenditures are needed due to an immediate emergency. If the balance is less, or projected
to be less, than the minimum required amount, a fiscal plan shall be developed by the
Director and adopted by the Parks and Recreation Commission for the replenishment of
the required minimum amount within a period that should not exceed five years.
Sufficient funding shall be reserved to fulfill financial obligations under the Park and Trail
Capital Project Reimbursement Grant program.
If the total level of reserves in these assignments exceeds the required minimum balance
levels, then consideration shall be given for strategic investments. However, prior to
approval of such investments, the Commission's operating budget should be forecasted to
be structurally balanced on a long-term basis (annual ongoing revenues are sufficient to
fund annual ongoing expenditures). Strategic investments shall consist of capital projects,
technology purchases, or other one-time expenditures that have comprehensive project
plans. Specific investments shall be budgeted and authorized by the Commission prior to
the commencement of any project activities. Investments should be planned and approved
over a multi-year period to ensure that they are carried out in an effective manner.
Priority should be given to one-time investments in the following areas:
1.Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
2.Health and Wellness
3.Environmental Sustainability and Natural Resources
4.Fiscal Responsibility and Organizational Excellence
Any proposed increases in ongoing county expenditures or proposed reductions in ongoing
county revenues should be considered and approved or disapproved during the annual
budget process so as to achieve and maintain structural balance for the Commission’s
budget.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
09-06-23
Dated Revised: Policy #
C23-002
Page 3 of 3
Net Position and Reserves Policy
IV.PROCEDURE:
The amount of available net balance is determined with the estimated close of the County's
accounting records as of September 30 of each year. In accordance with financial reporting
requirements of the Government Accounting Standards Board (GASB), fund balance is
reported according to the following accounting distinctions.
1.Nonspendable fund balance – includes amounts that are not in a spendable form
or are required to be maintained intact.
2.Restricted fund balance – includes amounts that can be spent only for the specific
purposes stipulated by external resource providers, either constitutionally or
through enabling legislation.
3.Committed fund balance – includes amounts that can be used only for the specific
purposes mandated by a formal action of the government's highest level of
decision-making authority. Commitments may be changed or lifted only by the
government taking the same formal action that imposed the constraint
originally.
4.Assigned fund balance – comprises amounts intended to be used by the
government for specific purposes. Intent can be expressed by the governing body
or by an official or body to which the governing body delegates the authority.
5.Unassigned fund balance – the residual classification of the General Fund and
includes all amounts not contained in other classifications. Unassigned amounts are
technically available for any purpose.
The requirements of this fund balance policy apply to the unrestricted portion of the
General Fund balance (excludes the nonspendable and restricted portions of fund balance).
The Commission shall adopt a resolution annually to accept the results of the year-end
closing of the accounting records and to approve the assignments of net position balance
and reserves consistent with this policy.
Use of net position funds requires approval by the Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
09-06-23
Dated Revised: Policy #
C23-003
Page 1 of 2
Expenditure and Contract Approval Policy
I.PURPOSE:
The Director of Parks and Recreation, or his/her designee, is authorized to approve the
expenditures of funds appropriated and authorized by the Parks Commission in the OCPRC
annual operating budget. The Director shall maintain a system of budgetary controls to
ensure that revenues and expenditures reflect statutory and Board policy. The Director will
inform the Commission of any emergency operating expenditures that cannot be absorbed
in the current year operating budget with a memo in the next quarterly financial report.
II.CONTRACTS:
The Director shall be authorized to enter into contracts in an amount not to exceed $250,000
for purposes authorized by the Commission, utilizing available funding in the OCPRC
operating budget, except Capital Equipment and Capital Improvement projects (see
below). The Director will provide regular reports to the Commission detailing such
contracts.
III.MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT FUNDS:
The Director, or his or her designee, may authorize the expenditure of funds appropriated
and authorized by the Parks Commission in the OCPRC annual operating budget. A regular
report detailing expenditures and planned expenditures from these funds will be provided
to the Commission.
IV.CAPITAL EQUIPMENT:
Following the adoption of the annual Capital Equipment Plan, staff will present a detailed
Capital Equipment Purchase Authorization proposal, including final estimated purchase
costs for the recommended model and comparable costs for alternative energy efficient
models, if any exist. Upon approval, funding may be utilized from the unrestricted net
position for the listed expenditures. An emergency purchase of equipment not included in
the Capital Equipment Plan may be authorized by the Director if deemed necessary to
ensure continuity of operations. A memorandum detailing the purchase will be included in
the subsequent Parks Commission meeting agenda.
V.CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS:
1.Projects included in the annual CIP Plan or funded by favorability within the annual
CIP Spending Plan totaling less than $30,000 may be approved administratively by
the Director, or his/her designee.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
09-06-23
Dated Revised: Policy #
C23-003
Page 2 of 2
Expenditure and Contract Approval Policy
2.For projects over $30,000 in the approved CIP Plan staff shall prepare a detailed
memorandum, including total projected costs and contingencies, the project scope,
narrative of the project timeline and history, the request for proposal process,
results, and selected vendor. The project can proceed upon affirmative action of the
Parks Commission approving the project scope and authorizing the expenditure of
unrestricted net position funds for the project budget and contingency.
VI.PARK AND TRAIL CAPITAL GRANTS:
Staff shall present grant program policies annually with a recommended assignment of
unrestricted net position funding available to fund successful applications. Following the
grant application process, applications will be evaluated and scored administratively
according to the program guidelines. A list of recommended grant awards within the
amount assigned for the annual program shall be forwarded to the Commission for their
review and the Board of Commissioners for confirmation. Release of reimbursement grant
funds upon project completion may be authorized administratively by the Director, or his
or her designee, and incorporated in a subsequent quarterly budget forecast.
VII.EMERGENCY EXPENDITURES:
The Director is authorized to approve expenditures, and authorize equipment purchases or
capital improvement projects not incorporated in the annual operating budget, capital
equipment or improvement plans if necessary to ensure the continuity of operations and
the safety of staff and guests. A memorandum detailing the need and funds expended with
budget amendment, if necessary, shall be forwarded to the Commission at their next
meeting.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
07/10/24
Dated Revised:C24-001
Page 1 of 2
Sponsorship and Advertisement Policy
I.PURPOSE: The goal of the Oakland County Parks (OCP) Sponsorship and Advertisement Policy is to
ensure that OCP is meeting the mission and goals of its core values. All sponsorship and advertisement
opportunities must align with those core values, which include:
•Diversity, Equity and Inclusion - Ground all actions and decisions in equity and justice and provide
parks and recreation services that feel safe and welcoming to everyone.
•Health and Wellness - Increase access to the spaces and experiences that promote physical, mental
and social health for all.
•Environmental Sustainability and Natural Resources Stewardship - Plan, build and operate our
parks and services in a sustainable manner while collaborating with local communities. Care for the
natural environment, preserve land and open space for future generations, meet current recreation
needs without compromising the future and build community resilience to climate change.
•Fiscal Responsibility and Organizational Excellence - Implement our mission with a robust,
innovative and diverse parks and recreation organization and ground our decisions in sound fiscal
policy.
A.Guidance - To establish a process and procedures for the development and management of
sponsorships and advertisements at OCP.
B.Revenue generation – To generate revenue to support OCP programs, facilities, operations and
objectives with the overarching goals of
1. protecting public and OCP resources; and
2. expanding access to park and recreation opportunities in Oakland County.
C.Collaborative relationship building – To build positive relationships with residents and other
individuals, and local organizations and businesses that serve Oakland County.
II.Definitions:
A.Advertisement shall be defined as a notice (billboard, sign, banner, other printed materials or
media) promoting a business, product or service that is published or broadcast by OCP for a defined
period of time in exchange for a fee, goods or services.
B.Naming Right shall be defined as a relationship between OCP and an entity in which the entity
purchases the right to name a facility or permanent structure.
C.Sponsorship shall be defined as the relationship between OCP and an entity in which the entity
pays a fee in return for access to various benefits (marketing and other). Events, programs and
amenities (e.g. pavilion, playground) may be sponsored. An in-kind sponsorship is when an entity
provides goods and services instead of cash.
III.General Principles:
A.Staff should make reasonable efforts to avoid acceptance of sponsorships and advertisement
opportunities that:
1. detract from the integrity of the park’s natural, cultural, historic and recreation resources or
scenic viewsheds;
2. could be considered inappropriate, offensive, discriminatory, disparaging;
3. indecent, obscene or harmful to the general public;
4. interfere or detract from positive guest experiences;
5.are inconsistent with the core values of OCP;
6. require high ongoing expenditures in relation to the level of benefit to be received.
Existing Policies
Commission
Policy
Date Adopted:
07/10/24
Dated Revised:C24-001
Page 2 of 2
Sponsorship and Advertisement Policy
B.General Procedure
1. The OCP Director or their designee shall establish procedures and guidelines for the
evaluation and acceptance of advertisements and sponsorship opportunities.
2. Approval from the OCPRC is required prior to entering into an agreement for the naming
right of a physical structure or building.
3. The OCP Director or their designee may administratively approve sponsorships and
advertisements that do not exceed $50,000 in value.
4. All sponsorships and advertisements must be documented and/or codified in a written
agreement.
5. OCP staff shall regularly inform the OCPRC of new sponsorship and advertisement
agreements and associated revenue generation.
Existing Policies
2800 Watkins Lake Road, Waterford, MI 48328
248-858-0906 OaklandCountyParks.com
Memo
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
Chris Ward
July 10, 2026
Director’s Report
As we celebrate our 60th year, it is appropriate to look back to the
milestone’s in OCP’s founding. The article to the right highlights the
passage of our first millage, which carried by an incredibly close margin.
It’s interesting to note later in the article the promise to “acquire and
develop 18 to 20 parks throughout the county and operate them for the
enjoyment of all”. I am pleased to share that ambition was made real on
July 1st as we added parks #18 and #19 through our partnership with
Bloomfield Hills Schools that created Bloomfield Oaks (Johnson Nature
Center) and Discovery Oaks (Bowers School Farm). We are making great
progress towards creating the first truly countywide park system in our
history thanks to your support and a staff team that have put in an
incredible effort to bring these plans to fruition.
The ribbon cutting was held on Monday, June 22, with Oakland
County Board of Commissioners and Oakland County Parks Commissioners and staff, and City of Oak
Park officials and staff in attendance. The new playground, pavilion, restrooms and other amenities was
unveiled and enjoyed by several hundred residents.
The ribbon cutting at is set for The festivities include
use of the fishing dock, with the first 50 youth will receive a free fishing pole, new playgrounds, walking
paths, play pockets, pavilions, horseshoes pits and renovated disc golf course.
RETURN TO AGENDA
Both projects were made possible by collaboration with community partners. the City of Oak Park and
the City of Pontiac – and funded by the American Rescue Plan Act monies and financial contributions
from Oakland County Parks.
Ribbon cuttings will be held in for the following parks:
• Catalpa Oaks
• Red Oaks
• Southfield Oaks
• Waterford Oaks
Oakland County Parks (OCP) is seeking approval from the Board of Commissioners to apply for the
FY2027 Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) Law Enforcement Grant Program through the Michigan Department of
Natural Resources in the amount of $14,999.97. The grant would fund wages for deputies from the
Oakland County Sheriff's Office to provide patrol and enforcement services at Holly Oaks ORV Park. The
grant period runs from October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2027. This marks the eighth
consecutive year OCP has applied for this funding opportunity.
Oakland County Parks was awarded $300,000 through the FY 2025 Sustain Our Great Lakes Program
administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF). NFWF has approved our request to
extend the grant period from May 30, 2026, to December 31, 2026. The revised grant period is
November 1, 2024, through December 31, 2026, providing additional time to complete eligible work and
expend the remaining grant funds.
Grant funding supports restoration of the floodplain and its connection to the Rouge River at Southfield
Oaks County Park. The project will improve water quality, increase flood storage capacity, enhance
stream and riparian habitat, and support ongoing efforts to remove the Rouge River from the federal
Area of Concern list.
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Upcoming Events – July 2026
Active Adults
July 6 Riverwalk – Red Oaks
July 7 AM – Riverwalk – Red Oaks
July 8 Crusin Crooked Lake – Independence Oaks
July 8 Riverwalk – Red Oaks
July 9 AM - Riverwalk – Red Oaks
July 13 Riverwalk – Red Oaks
July 13 4H Senior Day
July 14 AM - Riverwalk – Red Oaks
July 15 Riverwalk – Red Oaks
July 16 Riverwalk – Red Oaks
July 16 AM - Riverwalk – Red Oaks
July 16 Trailside Chat – Addison Oaks
July 20 Riverwalk – Red Oaks
July 21 Over 50 After Hours – Red Oaks
July 21 AM - Riverwalk – Red Oaks
July 22 Riverwalk – Red Oaks
July 23 AM - Riverwalk – Red Oaks
July 23 Riverwalk – Red Oaks
July 25 America250 – Pontiac
July 26 America250 - Pontiac
July 27 Riverwalk – Red Oaks
July 28 AM - Riverwalk – Red Oaks
July 29 Riverwalk – Red Oaks
July 30 Riverwalk – Red Oaks
July 30 AM - Riverwalk – Red Oaks
July 30 Grandparents raising Grandchildren – Pontiac to Independence Oaks
Adaptive
July 8 Adaptive Kayaking DNEM – Stoney Creek
July 9 Adaptive Cycling DNEM – Independence Oaks
July 9 National Wheelchair Veteran Games – Detroit
July 10 National Wheelchair Veteran Games – Detroit
July 11 Dreams and Wings – Pontiac Airport
July 11 National Wheelchair Veteran Games – Detroit
July 12 National Wheelchair Veteran Games – Detroit
July 13 National Wheelchair Veteran Games – Detroit
July 16 4H Adaptive
July 16 Adaptive Cycling DNEM – Independence Oaks
July 20 Come out and Play – SCAMP
July 30 Adaptive Cycling DNEM – Independence Oaks
Mobile Recreation
July 01 Chaos and Commotion - Birmingham P & R In the Park Summer Concerts
July 01 Arctic Rush - Sylvan Lake 4th July Fun
July 02 Chaos and Commotion - Walled Lake Schools Summer Adventures
July 02 Fun-Struction - Berkley P & R Summer Day Camp
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Upcoming Events – July 2026
July 03 Stage - Grosse Pointe Farms P&R
July 03 Stage - Clawson of July
July 03 High Voltage, Fun-Struction, & Tower - Oak Park P and R 4th of July
July 03 Air Jumper - OCPRC Addison Oaks 4th of July Addison Oaks
July 03 Pirate Paradise - Ortonville Downtown Development July First Friday Fun
July 04 Stage - Gillham Recreation Center Burton Fields Scotia Park
July 04 Pirate Paradise - Birthday Drake Sports Park
July 04 Air Jumper - OCPRC Campground Rec 4th of July Groveland
July 05 Stage - Great Awakening International Outreach Detroit/ Concert Milliken Park
July 05 Climbing Tower - The Apostolic Church of Auburn Hills July 5th Church Picnic
July 06 Arctic Rush & Bouncer - SCAMP - Bloomfield
July 06 Chaos and Commotion - West Bloomfield School District WBSD Camp
July 07 Stage - Gillham Recreation Center, Burton Fields Scotia Park
July 07 Blast Off Bouncer - Bloomfield Hills Schools Little Hawks
July 07 Jump N' Jam - South Lyon Twp P & R Play in the Park Day - South Lyon
July 08 Putt-It - OCPRC - MSU Tollgate
July 08 Chaos and Commotion - Oakland University OU cares Summer Camp
July 08 Jump N' Jam - Clarenceville Summer Camp
July 08 Blast Off Bouncer - Waterford Parks & Rec Farm Camp R
July 08 Arctic Rush - Clarkston Independence District Library Summer Reading Kick Off
July 08 Stage - Lyon Twp DDA Music on the Grand
July 09 Stage - Macomb Twp Parks and Recreation Concert Macomb Corners Park
July 09 Go Games - Oakland County Sheriff, PAL, Summer Discovery Onsite Festival
July 09 Geo Tower - Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce Summer Concert Series
July 09 Stage - Berkley P and R Berkley Beats Oxford Park
July 09 Jump N' Jam - Northville P & R Movie in the Park
July 10 Bleachers & Stage - OC Fair Association 4H Fair Springfield Oaks
July 10 Stage - Salute Our Warriors, 9th Annual Salute to our Warriors
July 10 Jump N' Jam - Auburn Hills P & R Auburn Hills Summer Day Camp
July 10 Chaos and Commotion Commerce Twp P & R Summer Concert
July 11 Special Event Trailer OCPRC - Adaptive Rec Dreams & Wings
July 11 Jump N' Jam - OCPRC - Addison Oaks Wet and Whacky Addison Oaks
July 11 Fun-Struction - Troy Fire Department Troy Touch-A-Truck Event
July 11 Geo Tower - Troy P & R Midsummer Bash
July 11 Pirate Paradise - Prospect Missionary Baptist Church
July 11 Stage - Gracious Savior Church Jazz on the Lawn
July 11 Blast Off Bouncer - Commerce Twp Library Summer Fun
July 11 Jump N' Jam - OCPRC - Campground Rec Game O Rama Groveland
July 12 Stage - Stylistic Sound and Event Services LLS, Classic Auto Showcase
July 12 Jump N' Jam - Oak Park Public Library, Jump into Reading
July 12 Stage - Building Assets to Strengthen Society Block Party
July 13 Pirate Paradise - Oak Pointe Church Milford Kids Morning camp
July 14 Stage - Gillham Recreation Center Burton Fields Scotia Park
July 14 Stick-It – Archery - Oxford Early Learning Center Summer Camp
July 14 Pirate Paradise Lake Orion Community Schools - Camp Wanna Have Fun
July 14 Jump N' Jam -OCPRC - Rec Program Service Oaks
July 15 Stage - Oak Park P & R Concert Oak Park
July 15 Climbing Tower - OCPRC - MSU Tollgate Farm
July 15 Climbing Tower - Farmington Hills Nature Center Summer Camps
July 15 Putt-It - Walled Lake Summer Kick off Festival
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Upcoming Events – July 2026
July 15 Climbing Tower - Pleasant Ridge Parks & Recreation Ice Cream Social
July 16 Climbing Tower - Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce Concert Series
July 16 Stage - Macomb Twp Parks and Recreation Concert Macomb Corners Park
July 16 Jump N' Jam - West Bloomfield School District Summer Camp
July 16 Arctic Rush - Oakland Family Services Summer Camp Field Day
July 16 Chaos and Commotion - Wixom Family Fun Night
July 17 Stage - Rochester DDA Dancin' in the Street Downtown Rochester
July 17 Go Games - Oakland University OU Cares Summer Camp Week 2
July 17 Climbing Tower - Auburn Hills P & R Auburn Hills Summer Day Camp
July 17 Pirate Paradise - Hazel Park P & R Movie in the Park
July 17 Stage - Inkster Police Department SummerFest City-Wide Community Event
July 17 Blast Off Bouncer - Keego Harbor P & R July Block Party
July 17 Jump N' Jam Commerce Twp P & R Summer Concert
July 18 Stage - Inkster Police Department SummerFest City-Wide Community Event
July 18 Stage - Rochester DDA Dancin' in the Street Downtown Rochester
July 18 Pirate Paradise - Rochester Avon Rec Authority P&R RARA Tons of Trucks
July 18 Jump N' Jam - Orion Twp Public Library Kerry Roman Library
July 18 Fun-Struction, Air Jumper, Stage, & Tower - Elam Barbershop and Beauty Salon
July 19 Stage - Inkster Police Department SummerFest City-Wide Community Event
July 19 Tower - Rochester Auburn Hills Comm. Coal. Keeping ME in mental health
July 20 Chaos OCPRC – Adaptive Rec Come Out and Play Independence
July 20 Jump N' Jam - Clawson P & R Clawson Hunter Recreation
July 21 Stage - Gillham Recreation Center Burton Fields Scotia Park
July 21 Chaos and Commotion - Southfield P & R Summer Camps
July 21 Arctic Rush - Village of Wolverine Lake Tuesdays in the Park
July 22 Stage - Oak Park P & R Concert
July 22 Chaos and Commotion - OCPRC - MSU Tollgate Farm
July 22 Bus - OCPRC - Admin
July 22 Jump N' Jam & Stage - Lyon Twp DDA Music on the Gran
July 22 Arctic Rush - Waterford Parks & Rec Park It Movie Night
July 23 Stage - Macomb Twp Parks and Recreation Concert Macomb Corners Park
July 23 Bus - Michigan State University Extension - Pontiac Youth Field Trips
July 23 Go Games - Huntington Woods Public Library Din-O-lympics at the Huntington
July 23 Climbing Tower - West Bloomfield Township Public Library Summer Send Off
July 23 Chaos and Commotion - Berkley P & R Bacon Jamboree
July 23 Geo Tower - Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce Summer Concert Series
July 23 Bouncer, Stick-it Archery, Putt It - Wixom Family Fun Night Wixom
July 24 Stage - OCPRC - Rec Program Service Oakie's 60th Birthday Bash
July 25 Stage - Lake Street Cruise In
July 25 Stage (2) Grosse Point Parks and Rec - Concert East Jefferson
July 25 Tent - OCPRC - Rec Program Service America's 250th Birthday
July 25 High Voltage - OCPRC - Addison Oaks Weekend
July 25 Climbing Tower - Clawson DDA Market
July 25 Climbing Tower & Bouncer Waterford Corsairs Youth Signing Day
July 25 Pirate Paradise - MLK Committee Royal Oak Twp Jazz Festival
July 25 High Voltage - OCPRC - Campground Rec Mystery Madness Groveland
July 26 Geo Tower - Church of the Holy Spirit Parish
July 27 Pirate Paradise - Oakland University OU Cares Summer Camp Week
July 27 Air Jumper - Pleasant Ridge Parks & Recreation Summer Day Camp Park Day
July 27 Fun-Struction - Farmington Library Summer Reading Finale
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Upcoming Events – July 2026
July 28 Stage - Gillham Recreation Center Burton Fields Scotia Park
July 28 Bouncer, Geo Tower, & Stick-it Archery - Wixom Library Bounce N' Play
July 29 Bus - OCPRC - Rec Program Service
July 29 Stage - Oak Park P & R Concert Oak Park
July 29 Glow Golf Package OCPRC - MSU Tollgate Farm
July 29 Pirate Paradise - Beverly Hills Club Myths/Legends Week
July 29 Fun-Struction- Waterford Parks & Rec Farm Camp
July 29 Stage - Franklin Comm Assoc. Music on the Green Village Green
July 29 Chaos and Commotion - Oakland County Sheriff PAL Summer Discovery
July 29 Jump N' Jam - Franklin Historical Society Music on the Green
July 30 Stage - Macomb Twp Parks and Recreation Concert Macomb Corners Park
July 30 Bus, Chaos, Tower, & Bouncer OCPRC - Adaptive Rec GRG - Independence
July 30 Arctic Rush - Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church End of Session Celebration
July 30 Fun-Struction - Wixom City of Family Fun Night Wixom
July 30 Stage - Berkley P & R Berkley Beats Oxford Park
July 30 Chaos and Commotion -Northville P & R Movie in the Park
July 31 Stick-It Archery - Auburn Hills P & R Summer Day Camp
July 31 Jump N' Jam, Go Games, & Tower - OCPRC - Waterford Market
July 31 Fun-Struction - Kensington Metropark Movies in the Park Martindale Beach
July 31 Arctic Rush - Commerce Twp P & R Summer Concert
Nature Education
Field Trips & Birthday Parties
July 2 Field Trip -School for Mind and Body WINT
July 7 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Live animal show RONC
July 7 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Live animal show WINT
July 8 Field Trip Orion Twp Parks and Rec Summer Camp
July 8 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Digitalis camp RONC
July 8 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Pond Dip Camp WINT
July 9 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Camp Sweep Net RONC
July 9 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Fishing Camp WINT
July 10 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Digitalis Camp WINT
July 11 Birthday Party-Piper turns 5-RONC
July 11 Birthday Party-Joey turns 4- RONC
July 14 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp- Digitalis Camp WINT
July 14 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp- Live animal show Camp RONC
July 14 Field Trip-Caterpillar Corner -WINT
July 15 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Pond Dip Camp WINT
July 15 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp- Digitalis Camp RONC
July 16 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Camp Sweep Net RONC
July 16 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Fishing Camp WINT
July 17 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Live animal show WINT (quiet zone)
July 18 Birthday Party -Clark turns 4-RONC
July 18 Field Trip -GSSEM (Girl Scouts) Plush Pals
July 21 Field Trip Lake Orion Schools
July 21 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Digitalis Camp WINT
July 22 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Pond Dip Camp WINT
July 22 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Live animal show WINT (quiet zone)
July 23 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Camp Sweep Net RONC
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Upcoming Events – July 2026
July 23 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Fishing Camp WINT
July 24 Field Trip -Lakeisha Jackson WINT
July 24 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Live animal show RONC
July 24 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Live animal show WINT (quiet zone)
July 25 Birthday Party-Noah turns 5-RONC
July 26 Birthday Party -Alexandra turns 4- WINT
July 28 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp- Digitalis Camp RONC
July 28 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Digitalis Camp WINT
July 29 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Live animal show WINT (quiet zone)
July 29 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp- Digitalis Camp RONC
July 30 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Fishing Camp WINT
July 30 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Live animal show RONC
July 31 Field Trip -Outdoor Discovery Camp-Pond Dip Camp WINT
Outreach
July 1 Nature Presentation-Troy Parks and Rec
July 1 Nature Presentation -Farmington Hills Nature Center
July 2 Digitalis Lyon Twp Library
July 7 Nature Presentation-Madison Heights Summer Camp
July 10 Digitalis Huntington Woods Parks and Recreation
July 10 Digitalis Berkely Parks and Recreation
July 11 Nature Table -Farmington Farmers Market
July 14 Digitalis OCP Archery Camp
July 14 Digitalis Madison Heights Summer Camp
July 14 Nature Presentation -Blair Memorial Library
July 15 Nature Presentation -Oakland University
July 15 Nature Presentation – Royal Oak Library 1
July 15 Nature Presentation – Royal Oak Library 2
July 16 Nature Presentation -Stepanski School Waterford
July 17 Nature Table -Hazel Park Recreation
July 17 Nature Table -Keego Harbor Parks and Rec
July 18 Nature Table -Ortonville Farmers Market
July 20 Nature Table-Independence Oaks-Come Out and Play
July 21 Nature Presentation-South Lyon Recreation
July 22 Nature Presentation -Northville Parks and Rec
July 22 Digitalis-All Saints Episcopal Church
July 23 Nature Table -ADA Celebration
July 23 Nature Table -Berkley Parks and Rec
July 29 Digitalis Commerce Twp Library
July 30 Nature Presentation – West Bloomfield Schools
July 30 Nature Presentation-Independence Oaks – Grandparents raising Grandkids
Public Nature Programs
July 2 ECHO-WINT
July 8 Trailblazers-Rose Oaks WINT
July 9 ECHO-WINT
July 10 Morning Munchkins-RONC
July 10 Puddle Jumpers -WINT
July 16 Summer Sunset Forest Therapy Walk -WINT
July 16 ECHO-WINT
Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Upcoming Events – July 2026
July 17 Trailblazers -Lyon Oaks WINT
July 17 Oakland County Fair Science Day WINT
July 17 NAN- Drawn to the flame RONC
July 18 Plush Pals Picnic -WINT
July 22 Storytime in the Park -RONC
July 23 ECHO-WINT
July 25 Magical Moss Terrarium -RONC
July 26 Park Garden Tour -RONC
July 29 CABB (Clarkston area backyard birders) WINT
July 30 ECHO-WINT
July 30 Trailblazers-Pontiac Oaks -WINT
Oakland County Market
July 4 Yoga at the Market
July 4 Tai Chi at the Market
July 7 Gleaners Food Distribution
July 16 Yoga at the Market
July 22 Gleaners Food Distribution
Special Events
July 24 Oakie’s Birthday Bash – Independence Oaks