Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission
NOTICE OF MEETING Date: December 8, 2020 Time: 2:00 p.m. Location: Virtual Meeting on Zoom available to the public at: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87992360458
AGENDA 1. Call to Order / Moment of Silence
2. Approval of the Minutes – A. November 10, 2020 Meeting (attached, pp. 1-6 /action item) B. November 23, 2020 Special Meeting (attached, pp. 7-8 /action item)
3. Public Comment
4. Communications, Projects & Activities (attached, pp. 9-17 /action item) A. Resolution of Appreciation – Janice Anschuetz (attached, p. 18 /action item)
5. Consent Agenda A. Budget Adjustments (attached, p. 19 /action item) B. Adoption of the 2021 Meeting Calendar (attached, p. 20 /action item)
6. Financial & Recreation Reports – November 2020 A. Financial Reports (attached, pp. 21-23 /action item) B. Recreation Reports (attached, pp. 24-29 /action item)
7. Old Business A. 2020 Connecting Communities Grants (attached, pp. 30-31 /action item) B. Final Approval, Dyer Property (attached, pp. 32-34 /action item) C. Other Old Business
8. New Business A. NAPP – Hamilton Partnership Request (attached, pp. 35-44 /action item) B. Border-to-Border Trail Easement – Lima Township (attached, pp. 45-51 /action item) C. Other Old Business
9. Commissioners / Directors Comments
10. Adjournment
Washtenaw County will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting upon 7-day notice to Washtenaw County. Individuals requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Washtenaw by writing or calling the following: Human Resources, 734-994-2410, TTD# 734/994-1733.
Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission Tel: (734) 971-6337 2230 Platt Road / P.O. Box 8645 Fax: (734) 971-6386 Ann Arbor, Michigan 48107-8645 washtenaw.org/parks #2A
Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission
MINUTES OF MEETING
Date: November 10, 2020 Time: 2:00 p.m. Location: Zoom Digital Meeting
Members Present: Robert Marans, WCPARC President (attending from Ann Arbor, MI); Patricia Scribner, WCPARC Vice President (attending from Pittsfield Township, MI); Janice Anschuetz, WCPARC Secretary-Treasurer (attending from Ypsilanti, MI); Janis Bobrin (attending from Glen Arbor Township, MI), Daniel Ezekiel (attending from Ann Arbor, MI), Ricky Jefferson (attending from Ypsilanti, MI), Jo Ann McCollum (attending from Ypsilanti Township, MI), Brenda McKinney (attending from Superior Township, MI), Evan Pratt (attending from Ann Arbor, MI), and Sue Shink (attending from Northfield Township, MI)
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: Coy Vaughn, Director; Meghan Bonfiglio, Deputy Director; Ginny Trocchio, Superintendent of Park Planning and Natural Areas; Jason Brooks, Manager of Finance and Administration; Diane Carr, Superintendent, MLM Recreation Center;
Others Present: Daniel Kelly, Washtenaw County Shelter Association
1. Call to Order/Moment of Silence
Mr. Marans called the meeting to order at 2:02 p.m. with a moment of silence in appreciation of first responders.
2. Approval of Minutes
The minutes of the September 8, 2020 regular meeting were included with the agenda material. Ms. Anschuetz noted that we held a moment of silence rather than doing a pledge of allegiance.
It was moved by Ms. Anschuetz and seconded by Ms. Bobrin to approve the minutes of the September 8, 2020 meeting, as amended. Roll call vote: 8 Ayes, 0 Nays, 2 Absent (Jefferson and Shink), the motion was approved.
The minutes of the September 29, 2020 working session meeting were included with the agenda material. Ms. Anschuetz noted that we held a moment of silence rather than doing a pledge of allegiance.
Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission Tel: (734) 971-6337 2230 Platt Road / P.O. Box 8645 Fax: (734) 971-6386 Ann Arbor, Michigan 48107-8645 washtenaw.org/parks 1 It was moved by Ms. McKinney and seconded by Ms. Shink to approve the minutes of the September 29, 2020 working session meeting, as amended. Roll call vote: 8 Ayes, 0 Nays, 2 Absent (Jefferson and Shink), the motion was approved.
3. Public Comment
None
4. Communications, Projects & Activities
Mr. Vaughn described communications in the packet and reported on projects and activities for the month of September and October. He included the Projects & Activities from each facility as well as a rundown of the Natural Areas millage vote which took place on November 3, 2020.
Ms. Macyda presented feedback received at a public feedback session on Staebler Farm Park – North park site plan. She stated that many wanted animals on site, reduced development on the south portion of the park, historic interpretation, and that there was a strong desire for children’s amenities. Ms. McCollum stated that the facilitator at the October 28th event did a good job of engaging the public.
Mr. Vaughn reported on Programs & Events which took place in September & October 2020. He also discussed seasonal staff awards for 2020.
It was moved by Ms. Anschuetz and seconded by Ms. Bobrin to accept and file the Projects and Activities Update for the months of September and October 2020, as submitted. Roll call vote: 10 Ayes, 0 Nays, the motion was approved.
It was moved by Ms. Anschuetz and seconded by Ms. Bobrin to move item #8A up to the next agenda item. Roll call vote: 10 Ayes, 0 Nays, the motion was approved.
5. Consent Agenda
A. Ducks Unlimited Project Agreement
It was moved by Ms. Scribner and seconded by Ms. McKinney to partner with the US Fish and Wildlife Service and Ducks Unlimited to provide restoration at Northfield Woods Preserve. Roll call vote: 9 Ayes, 0 Nays, 1 Absent (Jefferson), the motion was approved.
B. Signatory Authority Update
It was moved by Ms. Scribner and seconded by Ms. McKinney to adopt the resolution granting authority to Director Coy P. Vaughn to sign all contracts and legal documents on behalf of the Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission. Roll call vote: 9 Ayes, 0 Nays, 1 Absent (Jefferson), the motion was approved.
C. NAPP – Sales Contract, Squiers (Voted on separately from the Consent Agenda)
It was moved by Mr. Pratt and seconded by Ms. Bobrin to authorize preparation of a sales contract to purchase the Squiers property in Sylvan Township as identified in the attached maps at a purchase price of $184,000 contingent upon completion of all necessary due diligence investigation and final approval by the Parks and Recreation Commission. Roll call vote: 9 Ayes, 0 Nays, 1 Absent (Jefferson), the motion was approved.
2 D. NAPP – Round 20 ALPAC Priorities
It was moved by Ms. Scribner and seconded by Ms. McKinney to adopt the ALPAC round 20 priorities as presented. Roll call vote: 9 Ayes, 0 Nays, 1 Absent (Jefferson), the motion was approved.
E. NAPP – Round 20 NATAC Priorities
It was moved by Ms. Scribner and seconded by Ms. McKinney to adopt the NATAC round 20 priorities as presented. Roll call vote: 9 Ayes, 0 Nays, 1 Absent (Jefferson), the motion was approved.
F. NAPP – Approval to apply for MDARD Grant
It was moved by Ms. Scribner and seconded by Ms. McKinney to apply for matching grant funds to the MDARD Agricultural Preservation Fund for the Stegenga property. Roll call vote: 9 Ayes, 0 Nays, 1 Absent (Jefferson), the motion was approved.
6. Financial & Recreation Reports – September & October 2020
A. Financial Reports
Mr. Brooks reported on the claims report and the fund reports contained within the packet and pointed out that a revised report had been sent out to the Commission to replace the October claims due to a duplicate date in September/October. He stated that the total for the claims for the month of September was $1,634,908.66 and for the month of October was $545,445.28.
It was moved by Ms. Bobrin and seconded by Ms. Shink to accept and file the Financial Reports for the months of September and October 2020 as submitted. Roll call vote: 9 Ayes, 0 Nays, 1 Absent (McKinney) the motion was approved.
B. Recreation Reports
Mr. Brooks reported on recreation reports for the month of September and October 2020.
Mr. Marans asked if we could do a calculation on revenues lost due to COVID and the Shelter situation.
It was moved by Ms. Shink and seconded by Ms. Anschuetz to accept and file the Recreation Reports for the month of September and October 2020 as submitted. Roll call vote: 9 Ayes, 0 Nays, 1 Absent (McKinney) the motion was approved.
7. Old Business
A. Connecting Communities Application Update
Ms. Macyda provided a presentation on the Connecting Communities program. She reported on requests we have received for both planning dollars and construction dollars.
B. Other Old Business
None
8. New Business
A. MLM Recreation Center Use as Temporary Shelter (Item moved to after Communications)
Mr. Vaughn presented a plan for utilization of the MLM Recreation Center as a temporary shelter.
3 Ms. Anshuetz stated that she has only heard positive feedback.
Ms. Shink stated that she appreciates the staff and members at the MLM Recreation Center for stepping up.
Mr. Kelly reported that staff is being very diligent given the COVID situation and added that this is part of the effort to get everyone a permanent housing plan moving forward. He stated that he is working with Ms. Bonfiglio to set up a place for donations and added that anyone can drop items off at the Delonis Center 24/7 by calling the front desk.
Ms. Shink stated that she would like the Board of Commissioners to appropriate additional funds if congregate housing becomes an issue regarding COVID.
Ms. McCollum asked whether the flu vaccine is offered to those in the shelter. Mr. Kelly stated that it is mandatory for staff and added that there are always a few flu shot clinics offered. He reported that the Shelter Association is working to incentivize the population this year.
Mr. Marans asked if there could be a weekly email update to the Commission. Ms. Carr stated that she feels that it could be done. Ms. Scribner asked for an update if anyone tests positive as well.
It was moved by Ms. McKinney and seconded by Ms. Shink to approve the proposal from the Shelter Association of Washtenaw County to use the Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center as an overflow shelter starting as early as November 11, 2020. Roll call vote: 9 Ayes, 0 Nays, 1 Absent (Jefferson), the motion was approved.
B. Park & Preserve Naming Policy
Mr. Vaughn reported that, historically, WCPARC park and facility naming has been at the discretion of the Director. This has often included Commission approval, and occasionally initiated by the Commission, but not always. He added that with no policy in place to guide naming protocols and no established criteria to consider, this has led to some inconsistencies in naming over the years.
Mr. Vaughn proposed a new policy that allows anyone wishing to name or rename a WCPARC park/facility or erect a memorial/honorarium in a park or within a facility, the opportunity to put the request in writing to the Director with a sufficient explanation of the proposal to enable the Director to make a recommendation to the Commission. He explained that final action on all naming proposals shall be by vote of the Commission.
It was moved by Ms. Bobrin and seconded by Ms. Anschuetz to adopt the policy on naming parks & preserves. Roll call vote: 9 Ayes, 0 Nays, 1 Absent (McKinney) the motion was approved.
C. B2B Trail Special Revenue Fund
Ms. Trocchio reported that this is similar to the Natural Areas Stewardship fund that was set up. She stated that she took the investment projections received for the Stewardship fund and plugged in scenarios for what it might look like for the B2B. Mr. Sanderson stated that it is envisioned that funds will be used for routine maintenance throughout the year. Ms. Bobrin asked if the HWPI had maintenance specifications in mind for funds prior to us adopting a formal policy. Mr. Sanderson stated that we are working with them to develop a policy.
It was moved by Ms. Shink and seconded by Mr. Pratt to direct staff to continue working with the County Treasurer on the establishment of a special revenue fund for future maintenance of the Border to Border Trail. Roll call vote: 9 Ayes, 0 Nays, 1 Absent (McKinney) the motion was approved.
4 D. NAPP – Partnership Request, Kennedy
Ms. Pahl-Donaldson reported that this is a conservation easement that will be held by the City of Ann Arbor Greenbelt. She stated that this is about 100 acres in Northfield Township next to the Lepkowski easement and added that Kennedy is about 50/50 agricultural/natural areas and therefore is a joint purchase between ALPAC and NATAC.
Mr. Ezekiel stated that he is going to vote in favor of this item but added that he doesn’t love it because of the scoring. Ms. Bobrin stated that she agrees with Mr. Ezekiel. Ms. Shink stated that the Greenbelt is working hard to maintain an agricultural block.
It was moved by Ms. Bobrin and seconded by Ms. Anschuetz to partner with the Ann Arbor Greenbelt program for the purchase of a conservation easement on the Kennedy property in Northfield Township, as identified in the attached map and contribution $235,000 toward the purchase, and contribute $7,500 to the stewardship special revenue fund to cover potential future costs associated with monitoring and enforcement of the conservation easement, contingent upon attorney review of documents and execution of participation agreement. Roll call vote: 9 Ayes, 0 Nays, 1 Absent (McKinney) the motion was approved.
E. NAPP – Partnership Request, Base Lake Farm
Ms. Pahl-Donaldson stated that this is an RCPP project and added that our contribution to this would zero out our commitment to this RCPP which signals to our partners that we have carried out our commitment. She reported that this is on Walsh Road which has a lot of conservation easements around it. She added that this is 204 acres and is an expensive property with our contribution at $373,000, or 24% of the total purchase price.
It was moved by Mr. Ezekiel and seconded by Ms. Anschuetz to partner with the Ann Arbor Greenbelt program for the purchase of a conservation easement on the Kennedy property in Northfield Township, as identified in the attached map and contribution $235,000 toward the purchase, and contribute $7,500 to the stewardship special revenue fund to cover potential future costs associated with monitoring and enforcement of the conservation easement, contingent upon attorney review of documents and execution of participation agreement. Roll call vote: 9 Ayes, 0 Nays, 1 Absent (McKinney) the motion was approved.
F. NAPP – Partnership Request, Botsford
Ms. Trocchio reported that this property immediate abuts the Pringle property which we purchased a couple of years back and includes an ingress/egress easement for access from Miller Road. She reported that there are buildings and treehouses on this site. She added that the City of Ann Arbor has a right to first refusal on that property. Ms. Trocchio reported that there was a violation on this property due to logging activities and she highlighted specific locations on the property on a map. She stated that there are some items that need to be addressed in the next sixty days. She reported that the acquisition would be split with the City totaling $175,000 each for 20 acres.
Ms. Anchuetz asked what our responsibility would be for the trees that were taken. Ms. Trocchio reported that those questions would be answered through negotiated. She added that this is not final approval. Ms. Scribner asked what the timeline would be to figure out what our responsibility. Mr. Ezekiel stated that this is a spectacular property that has an amazing story. He added that he is happy to know that the entire property will be protected. Mr. Ezekiel asked if there is any thought of preserving the trampoline building or the treehouses. Ms. Trocchio stated that the treehouses may be a liability. Mr. Ezekiel stated that the easement violation was outrageous and added that the people responsible for it are the people that would be selling us the property and added that he would like to see them held to account for it. He asked if we could pay our portion into escrow until the Trust rectifies the problem. Ms. Trocchio stated that it may be a question for the attorneys at this point and all of those things would be hammered out
5 before we take ownership or request final approval. Ms. Scribner asked what our attorney says at this point. Ms. Trocchio stated that he has been working with Scio Township on this claim. Ms. Anschuetz stated that she feels it is worth voting on. Ms. Bobrin stated that she is a little uncomfortable with the motion without the actions expressing that there are conditions that need to be addressed. Ms. McCollum asked if other buildings would be built. She stated that she wants to get an idea of how quickly developers want to get their hands on the land and is concerned about someone else acquiring the land for development purposes. Mr. Pratt stated that he agrees with Mr. Ezekiel and Ms. Bobrin. He added that he went out and took a look at it and added that the Trustee had someone come in because they needed to pay the taxes on the property. Mr. Pratt stated that timber was harvested because they needed money and added that he is not sure if that is reflected in the purchase price. He stated that his understanding that this will come back to us with a resolution before final approval and added that he is fine with moving forward now but wants the ability to reject this later because it is troubling. Ms. Shink stated that she went out to the site as well and added that it is a beautiful property even with the trees gone. She added that there are many smaller parcels around it. She stated that she does not know what the resolution would be and would be shocked if Washtenaw County would be responsible for restoring it. Ms. Shink stated that she would support us moving forward recognizing that this may get too complicated at some point but added that it is worth a try. Ms. Scribner asked if the price of this land reflects the trees being taken out. Ms. Trocchio reported that the appraisal was done after the trees were taken out.
It was moved by Ms. Bobrin and seconded by Ms. Scribner to add “dependent on the satisfactory resolution of the outstanding easement violation” to the approval request.
It was moved by Ms. Scribner and seconded by Ms. Anschuetz to partner with the Ann Arbor Greenbelt program for the purchase of a the Botsford property in Scio Township, as identified in the attached map and contribution $175,000 toward the purchase contingent upon attorney review of documents and execution of participation agreement and final approval of Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission. The purchase of the property is also contingent upon the County and the Township agreement on restoration requirements for the property and dependent on the satisfactory resolution of outstanding easement violation. Roll call vote: 9 Ayes, 0 Nays, 1 Absent (McKinney) the motion was approved.
G. Other New Business
Commissioner/Director Comments
Ms. Scribner stated that she went for a walk in a county park recently and she saw a teacher with her first grade class with masks and all spaced out.
Mr. Ezekiel stated that he made an impulsive decision to go camping at Green Lake and added that it was full of people along with the parking lot at Park Lyndon and that it is great to think of all of the agencies that have made these opportunities available. Mr. Ezekiel stated that it was not an accident that the Botsford property was preserved.
9. Adjournment
It was moved by Mr. Pratt and seconded by Ms. McCollum to adjourn the meeting. Ayes all; the motion was approved.
The meeting was adjourned at 4:38 p.m.
6 #2B
Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission
MINUTES OF MEETING
Date: November 23, 2020 Time: 2:00 p.m. Location: Zoom Digital Meeting
Members Present: Robert Marans, WCPARC President (attending from Ann Arbor, MI); Patricia Scribner, WCPARC Vice President (attending from Pittsfield Township, MI); Janice Anschuetz, WCPARC Secretary-Treasurer (attending from Ypsilanti, MI); Janis Bobrin (attending from Glen Arbor Township, MI), Daniel Ezekiel (attending from Ann Arbor, MI), Ricky Jefferson (attending from Ypsilanti, MI), Jo Ann McCollum (attending from Ypsilanti Township, MI), Evan Pratt (attending from Ann Arbor, MI), and Sue Shink (attending from Centerfield Township, MI)
Members Absent: Brenda McKinney
Staff Present: Coy Vaughn, Director; Meghan Bonfiglio, Deputy Director; Ginny Trocchio, Superintendent of Park Planning and Natural Areas; Hannah Cooley, Management Analyst
Others Present:
1. Call to Order
Ms. Scribner called the meeting to order at 2:03 PM.
2. Public Comment
None
3. Executive Session to discuss land acquisition
Motion was made by Ms. Anschuetz, seconded by Ms. Shink to adjourn to closed session to discuss land acquisition. Roll call vote, all ayes. Meeting was adjourned to closed session at 2:07 PM
Motion was made by Ms. Bobrin, seconded by Ms. McCollum to move the meeting back to open session. Roll call vote: 9 Ayes, 0 Nays, 1 Absent (McKinney), the motion was approved.
4. Old Business
A. NAPP – Botsford Acquisition – Partnership Request
Ms. Trocchio reported that this property immediately abuts the Pringle property which we purchased a couple of years back and includes an ingress/egress easement for access from Miller Road. She
Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission Tel: (734) 971-6337 2230 Platt Road / P.O. Box 8645 Fax: (734) 971-6386 Ann Arbor, Michigan 48107-8645 washtenaw.org/parks 7 reported that there are buildings and treehouses on this site. She added that the City of Ann Arbor has a right to first refusal on that property. Ms. Trocchio reported that there was a violation on this property due to logging activities and she highlighted specific locations on the property on a map. She stated that there are some items that need to be addressed in the next sixty days. She reported that the acquisition would be split with the City totaling $175,000 each for 20 acres.
Commissioners commented on the quality of the Botsford property and support for the acquisition given its adjacency to property already owned by NAPP and proximity to neighborhoods and population.
Motion was made by Ms. Anschuetz, seconded by Mr. Jefferson to approve the purchase of the Botsford property with the City of Ann Arbor and contribute $175,000 toward the purchase price, contingent upon attorney review of documents, a satisfactory Phase I Environmental report completed, and execution of participation agreement. The purchase of the property is also contingent upon the Township contributing a minimum of $25,000 toward the restoration of the conservation easement portion and agreement of restoration plan by County staff and the Township. Ms. Bobrin made a friendly amendment to the motion to make sure the current owners are the ones liable for current damages to the conservation easement and that some of the money be set aside in escrow account pending the litigation on the conservation easement. Roll call vote: 8 Ayes, 0 Nays, 2 Absent (Shink, McKinney), the motion was approved.
5. Adjournment
It was moved by Ms. Anschuetz and seconded by Mr. Jefferson to adjourn the meeting. Ayes all; the motion was approved.
The meeting was adjourned at 2:49 p.m.
8 #4 WCPARC – December 8, 2020 Meeting Communications, Projects & Activities
9 10 Map of the 70-mile cross-county, non-motorized Border-to-Border trail. Courtesy of Huron Waterloo Pathways Initiative
By Dana Afana | [email protected]
ANN ARBOR, MI -- A new segment of a non-motorized pathway expected to total 70 miles is open to the public.
Crews began constructing the Border-to-Border trail segment along the Huron River in Delhi Metropark in September and officially opened it to the public in mid-November.
Construction on the second half of the trail segment, from Zeeb to East Delhi roads, will begin in the winter, with a planned opening in summer 2021. The project also involves moving Skip’s Huron River Canoe Livery to a new spot within the park to make room for the trail’s extension.
New segments open along non-motorized Border-to-Border trail
11 This type of project would have been difficult within the last 10 years, due to its proximity to the river, said Coy Vaughn, Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission director. But with the help of partners, Vaughn said “it has really made such a difference and we have so much momentum now. There is no stopping us from building from Dexter to Ann Arbor and making the trail a crown jewel of the whole region.”
Earlier this year, partners revealed the M-52 tunnel, next to Green Lake, which uses Corten steel panels on the facade of both ends of the tunnel with a design referencing the topography of the Pinckney and Waterloo recreation areas.
In Ypsilanti Township, the Grove Road and North Hyrdro Park segments also opened. The segment stretching far into the county’s east side is located north of the Ford Lake Dam, providing space for recreational amenities such as picnics, trails and kayak or canoe launch areas.
Pandemic has not slowed Border-to-Border trail progress, officials say
Partners on the trail project include the Huron Waterloo Pathways Initiative, the Huron-Clinton Metroparks, Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission, Washtenaw County Road Commission, Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation and the state Department of Natural Resources.
The updated map is available online.
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12 26ºF
ALL ABOUT ANN ARBOR Ann Arbor’s Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center modifies hours Move in response to MDHHS' latest emergency order
Meredith Bruckner, Community News Producer, All About Ann Arbor Published: November 17, 2020, 1:18 pm
Tags: Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County, Gym, Recreation Center, Washtenaw County Parks, Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center, Swimming Pool, Indoor Swimming, COVID-19, Coronavirus, Pandemic, Michigan Department Of Health And Human Services, Washtenaw County Health Department, Washtenaw County Administrator, MDHHS, Emergency Order
Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center at 2960 Washtenaw Ave. in Ann Arbor. (Washtenaw County Parks)
ANN ARBOR – The Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center will be modifying its hours starting on Wednesday in response to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services' latest emergency order and Washtenaw County Administrator Gregory Dill’s recent announcement that all non-essential services will be closing in order to curb the spread of COVID-19. 13 The reduction of hours at the recreation center follows MDHHS' “three-week pause” order, which runs Wednesday through Dec. 8.
New facility hours through Dec. 8:
Monday through Friday: 7 a.m. to noon, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday: Closed
The facility will be closed Thanksgiving and Black Friday.
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For the next three weeks, the building will be open only to members at 25% capacity. The indoor pool will remain open with four lanes available.
Staff will continue to coordinate with the Washtenaw County Administrator and the Washtenaw County Health Department as measures taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19 evolve.
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“The unprecedented nature of this pandemic has required adaptability," Diane Carr, Recreation Center Superintendent, said in a news release. “Washtenaw County Parks is committed to keeping our community healthy and safe, and we will continue to follow the direction of our County Administration and the experts at the Health Department to guide our decision-making during this time. The health and safety of our members and our staff, have and always will be our top priority."
Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center is at 2960 Washtenaw Ave.
For facility updates and other park changes, visit washtenaw.org/parks.
Copyright 2020 by WDIV ClickOnDetroit - All rights reserved.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Meredith Bruckner Meredith has worked for WDIV since August 2017 and was voted one of Washtenaw County's best journalists in 2019 by eCurrent's readers. She covers the community of Ann Arbor and has a Master's degree in International Broadcast Journalism from City University London, UK. email
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14 Jason Brooks
From: Coy Vaughn Sent: Friday, December 04, 2020 10:39 AM To: Jason Brooks Cc: Meghan E. Bonfiglio Subject: FW: Frog Island improvements
Here is a communication that we can share with the Commission….
Coy Vaughn Director | Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission t. (734)971-6337 x 326 | c. (734)368-0073 e. [email protected] | w. washtenaw.org/parks Parks Administration | 2230 Platt Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Due to COVID-19 health & safety measures, access to the Parks Administration Office is limited to appointments only. For the latest updates on COVID-19 in Washtenaw County, visit washtenaw.org/covid19.
From: Teresa M. Gillotti Sent: Sunday, November 29, 2020 10:45 AM To: Roy D. Townsend
Hi Roy,
I was chatting with Bonnie Wessler the other day – complimenting her and the City DPS team on the incredible improvements to Frog Island (ADA entrance, creative solutions for lowering the trail and replacing it with concrete, built- in seating around the soccer field that complements the existing amphitheater). She insisted that so much of the improvements was due to your creativity and flexibility with the project.
So wanted to send you and the fine Parks team a big thank you! Back when I was City of Ypsi staff, so many of the improvements in the parks plan seemed to be out of reach. It’s wonderful to see it happen, and to have it be even better than we had initially thought.
Thanks again and hope you are well,
Teresa
Teresa Gillotti Director, Office of Community & Economic Development (OCED) she/her/hers
O. 734.544.3042 | C. 810.410.6982 | F. 734.259.3074 Washtenaw County | 415 W. Michigan Ave. | Ypsilanti, MI 48197 [email protected] www.washtenaw.org/oced
151 Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission
MEMORANDUM
TO: Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Coy Vaughn, Director DATE: December 8, 2020 RE: Project and Activities Update – November 2020
PARK FACILITY EVENTS AND PROJECTS Independence Lake • Park hosted two Friday night programs: “Night Senses Hike” and “Owl Calling Night Hike,” with both reaching maximum capacity. • Due to changing weather, “Yoga in the Park” series has been moved online. Classes are free for the month of December to increase participation. • Maintenance staff continue to winterize Independence Lake Park and Park Lyndon and assisted in preparing for night programs.
Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center • Following the recent MDHHS recent order, the Recreation Center has temporarily reduced operating hours and is now closed on Sundays. • Patrons remain overwhelmingly supportive of the facility being used as a temporary winter shelter during cold weather months and have requested an opportunity to donate winter gear. Bins have been set up in the lobby to collect donated items. • Online class offerings continue to be well-received with around 10-35 participants per class.
Pierce Lake Golf Course & Park • Reconstruction of cart paths on the “Back 9” with Anglin Civil, LLC is nearing completion with only punch list items and some additional restoration elements remaining.
Rolling Hills Park • With the Lodge being closed to the public, staff had an opportunity to update the interior with fresh paint, new light fixtures, and tile/grout cleaning. • Staff held two Lifeguard Training Courses at Lincoln High School and certified 14 new lifeguards. • The shed at the park residence was replaced by Jim’s Amish Structures in Chelsea. • Progress continues with JFR Architects on site and floor plans for concession stand improvements at the Water Park.
Staebler Farm Park • A consultant began preparation of a business plan for potential Michigan Folk School acquisition and cost-benefit analysis for developing the farmhouse and multipurpose building.
Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission Tel: (734) 971-6337 2230 Platt Road / P.O. Box 8645 Fax: (734) 971-6386 Ann Arbor, Michigan 48107-8645 washtenaw.org/parks 16 • November MFS classes at Staebler Farm Park: 43 students attended 15 classes, including Blacksmithing, Blacksmithing for kids, Crafting Coin Ring, Broom Making, Millinery, Slyod Spoon Carving, Leather Work, and Copper Bracelets.
A. Special Initiatives Border-to-Border Trail (B2B) • Frog Island Park, Ypsilanti: 0.25-mile trail is complete. • Grove Road South of I-94, Ypsilanti: 0.45 mile project is complete. • Delhi Metropark, Scio Township: 0.8-mile project is complete, with some site restoration to resume in the spring. This project will connect to the TAP funded Zeeb to Delhi project (1.0 miles), which is anticipated to begin construction next year. • Countywide Wayfinding: Consultants from The Collaborative Inc. continue to develop designs and graphics for the B2B wayfinding project.
B. Natural Areas Preservation Program (NAPP) Acquisition • Appraisals are underway for Round 20 NATAC Tier 1 priorities. • The Ann Arbor Greenbelt submitted a new RCPP proposal that includes NAPP as a partner. The “Lake Erie Conservation Partnership: Food & Water for the Future of Southeast Michigan” proposal is seeking $10M in NRCS funding, leveraged by $11.6M in local partner funds, with a net deployment of $21.6M over 5 years to: 1. secure RCPP Easements on 2,610 acres; 2. install RCPP Land Management Contract practices on 571 acres, 750 feet, 2,000 cubic yards; 3. connect producers to water quality-focused Partner-driven pay-for-performance and/or verification programs; and 4. improve reporting standards with a new customized framework within the Great Lakes Watershed Management System.
Stewardship • Ten volunteers helped to remove invasive shrubs including honeysuckle and buckthorn in Rolling Hill Park’s Sassafras Woods. • Invasive species management occurred at Brauer, DeVine, Trinkle Marsh, Northfield Woods, West Lake, and Fox Science preserves and Rolling Hills Park. • MiOFO has completed the fifth year of hunting at Leonard Preserve. In total, 11 deer were harvested during the Independence and Regular Firearm Season hunts. Staff helped set-up signs, place blinds, and mow access lanes for the hunters. • Staff met contractors at Draper-Houston Meadows and Highland preserves to discuss trail improvement projects. • Staff is working with the Jackson-Lenawee-Washtenaw CISMA to apply for funding for the Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program to treat stiltgrass at Watkins Lake Preserve. • Restoration at Northfield Woods Preserve has been approved to progress without additional permits from EGLE. Work is expected to begin in 2021.
C. Interpretive Programming • 123 patrons attended interpretive programs in November, which included preschool hike titled, “Hike to Squirrel Village,” family nature adventures “Ice Age,”and junior naturalists “Michigan Feathered Travelers.”
17 #4A
A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING JANICE ANSCHUETZ FOR HER DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE WASHTENAW COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION AND THE CITIZENS OF WASHTENAW COUNTY
December 8, 2020
WHEREAS, the Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission recognizes Janice Anschuetz for her forty-seven years of exemplary service as a Parks Commissioner; and
WHEREAS, Janice Anschuetz began her tenure on the Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission in 1973, the same year the Commission was founded; and
WHEREAS, through her tireless leadership, many new parks and programs were established to benefit all residents of the County, with a particular focus on the environment, youth, County history, social equity and her love of animals; and
WHEREAS, her love for animals led to the establishment of the Swift Run Dog Park, the annual Doggy Dip at Rolling Hills, and WCPARC’s involvement hosting the Walk & Wag fundraising event held annually to benefit the Humane Society; and
WHEREAS, Janice Anschuetz’s outstanding leadership and vision helped establish many new parks in Ypsilanti including the Ypsilanti Skate Park, the playground in Riverside Park, the Highland Preserve, and the Rolling Hills Waterpark; and
WHEREAS, the legacy of Janice Anschuetz includes establishing the Connecting Communities program, expanding the Border-to-Border Trail, and green energy initiatives at several WCPARC parks and facilities; and
WHEREAS, Janice Anschuetz’s focus on social equity and a passion for providing opportunities for all ages is demonstrated by her support of parks and programs in underserved areas of the County including funding provided to support Rutherford Pool, the Parkridge Community Center, and the Ypsilanti Senior Center; and
WHEREAS, Janice Anschuetz’s passion for public service and hands-on approach was reflected in the countless hours spent visiting Parks’ facilities and gaining intimate knowledge of the operations, allowing her to accomplish many projects that served in the best interest and improved the lives of the citizens of Washtenaw County; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission hereby expresses its sincere appreciation to Janice Anschuetz for her dedication and devotion to improving the lives of the citizens of Washtenaw County during her forty-seven years of service and wishes her continued success in all future endeavors.
______Robert W. Marans, President
18 #5A
Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission
MEMORANDUM To: Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission From: Coy P. Vaughn, Director Date: December 8, 2020 Re: Budget Adjustment – 2020 USDA-NRCS Revenue
Background Within the last year, WCPARC has closed on three conservation easements which were eligible, in portion, for reimbursement through the United State Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS). A request to amend the budget will be included in future action items but was not previously. Though the Director can authorize intra-fund budget adjustments, provided there are no implications on the operating reserve, staff is working diligently to bring larger adjustments to the Commission to ensure detailed financial oversight as modifications become necessary.
Discussion Reimbursement in the amount of $705,346 was received in 2020 for the Laier, Shanahan, and Liberty Grain Farm easements. Reimbursements totaled $194,371 for Laier, $306,500 for Shanahan and $204,475 for Liberty Grain Farm, respectively. Completion of this adjustment increases the Federal Revenue line and the Land Acquisition line within the ALPAC fund. A summary of the request is included below.
Fund Account Type Title Amounts
ALPAC 20917500.500000 Revenue Federal Revenue 705,346
ALPAC 20917500.961000 Expense Land Acquisition 705,346
Recommendation It is my recommendation that the Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission authorize a budget adjustment to increase the 2020 ALPAC budget by $705,346, in alignment with Federal Revenue received from the USDA-NRCS in 2020.
Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission Tel: (734) 971-6337 2230 Platt Road / P.O. Box 8645 Fax: (734) 971-6386 Ann Arbor, Michigan 48107-8645 washtenaw.org/parks 19 #5B
Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission
PUBLIC NOTICE WASHTENAW COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING CALENDAR – 2021
The Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission monthly meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 2:00pm, excluding the month of July (no meeting). Unless otherwise noticed, all meetings are held at the Parks and Recreation Commission Administrative Offices, located at 2230 Platt Road, Ann Arbor, MI.
This notice is posted in compliance with the Open Meetings Act, P.A. 267 of 1976.
January 12th February 9th March 9th April 13th May 11th June 8th July -- No Meeting August 10th September 14th October 12th November 9th December 14th
The County of Washtenaw will provide reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon seven (7) days’ notice to the County of Washtenaw. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Washtenaw by writing or calling the following:
Washtenaw County Human Resources 220 N. Main St P.O. Box 8645 Ann Arbor, Michigan 48107-8645 (734) 222-6800 TDD# (734) 994-1733
cc: Washtenaw County Clerk Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners
Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission Tel: (734) 971-6337 2230 Platt Road / P.O. Box 8645 Fax: (734) 971-6386 Ann Arbor, Michigan 48107-8645 washtenaw.org/parks 20 #6A
Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission
November 2020 - Claims Report
DIRECT PARK / FACILITY / FUNCTION UTILITIES PURCHASES OTHER TOTAL
Administration $ 574.78 $ 8,386.18 $ 14,963.86 $ 23,924.82 Recreation Center 10,427.96 1,037.00 4,285.30 15,750.26 Park Maintenance 1,028.92 1,529.63 1,569.71 4,128.26 Pierce Lake Golf Course 1,218.89 3,594.34 1,176.18 5,989.41 Independence Lake 1,753.19 2,216.78 4,678.82 8,648.79 Rolling Hills 6,124.98 5,074.23 21,507.64 32,706.85 Parker Mill 1,505.28 - 153.00 1,658.28 Sharon Mills - 153.12 3,543.60 3,696.72 Staebler Farm 129.54 267.72 748.19 1,145.45 Swift Run Dog Park - - 1,265.00 1,265.00 Capital Improvement - - 94,753.85 94,753.85 Committed Funding Partnerships - - - - Commission - - - - SUBTOTAL $ 22,763.54 $ 22,259.00 $ 148,645.15 $ 193,667.69
Road Millage Fund - - 664,659.20 664,659.20 SUBTOTAL $ - $ - $ 664,659.20 $ 664,659.20
Natural Areas Preservation Program
Acquisition $ - $ - $ 9,022.00 $ 9,022.00 Preserve Management - 1,249.94 4,150.18 $ 5,400.12 NATAC - - - $ -
Acquisition $ - $ - $ 8,094.00 $ 8,094.00 Annual Monitoring - - - $ - ALPAC - - - -
SUBTOTAL $ - $ 1,249.94 $ 21,266.18 $ 22,516.12
TOTAL $ 22,763.54 $ 23,508.94 $ 834,570.53 $ 880,843.01
It was moved by ______and supported by ______to approve payment of claims in the amount of….…….……...………..………… $ 880,843.01
21 WASHTENAW COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION FUND BALANCE STATEMENT - NOVEMBER 30, 2020
YTD Beginning Fund Balance (1/1/20) 17,814,057 92% % Budget
Revenue (Budget) Revenue (Actual) Variance
Property Tax 7,832,444 8,186,675 105% 354,231
State Grant Funds - - -
Fees & Services 2,681,300 1,277,636 48% (1,403,664)
Interest Earnings 150,000 183,368 122% 33,368
Other Revenue & Reimb. 60,000 150,726 251% 90,726
Total Revenue 10,723,744 9,798,404 91% (925,340)
Expense (Budget) Expense (Actual) Variance
Personnel Services (5,745,873) (4,537,238) 79% 1,208,635
Supplies & Other Services (2,405,800) (2,002,577) 83% 403,223
Internal Service Charges (862,692) (797,720) 92% 64,972
Capital Land Acquisition - (17,000) 0% (17,000) CIP/Development (4,266,300) (1,331,149) 31% 2,935,151 Contingency (272,000) (45,392) 17% 226,608 Machinery & Equipment (157,500) (95,119) 60% 62,381 Capital Subtotal (4,695,800) (1,488,660) 32% 3,207,140
Total Expense (13,710,165) (8,826,195) 64% 4,883,970
Surplus/(Deficit) (2,986,421) 972,209
Operating Reserve (7,832,444) (7,832,444) Funding Commitments (Partnerships) (3,545,982) - (11,378,426) (7,832,444)
Projected Fund Balance (12/31/20) 3,449,210 10,953,822
22 WASHTENAW COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION NATURAL AREAS PRESERVATION PROGRAM FUND BALANCE STATEMENT - NOVEMBER 30, 2020
YTD Beginning Fund Balance (1/1/20) 4,248,422 92% % Budget
Revenue (Budget) Revenue (Actual) Variance
Property Tax 3,878,361 4,079,218 105% 200,857
Federal Revenue - 194,371 194,371
Interest Earnings 50,000 53,844 108% 3,844
Other Revenue & Reimb. 5,000 - 0% (5,000)
Total Revenue 3,933,361 4,327,433 110% 394,072 Expense (Budget) Expense (Actual) Variance
Personnel Services (639,781) (455,355) 71% 184,426
Supplies & Other Services (308,700) (127,432) 41% 181,268
Internal Service Charges (18,121) (12,197) 67% 5,924
Capital Land Acquisition (2,550,000) (1,508,953) 59% 1,041,047 Land Development - - - Machinery & Equipment (30,000) (23,810) 79% 6,190 Capital Subtotal (2,580,000) (1,532,763) 59% 1,047,237
Transfers Out (45,000) (45,000) 100% -
Total Expense (3,591,602) (2,172,747) 60% 2,466,092
Surplus/(Deficit) 341,759 2,154,686
Projected Fund Balance (12/31/20) 4,590,181 6,403,108
23 #6B ROLLING HILLS COUNTY PARK YEAR-TO-DATE PARTICIPATION & REVENUE REPORT NOVEMBER
GATE
2018 2019 2020 2018 2019 2020
RESIDENT (ANNUAL) 1,468 1,484 1,131 $ 44,040 $ 40,680 $ 33,930 NON-RESIDENT (ANNUAL) 164 176 93 7,380 6,750 4,185 RESIDENTS (DAILY) 11,445 12,743 3,912 68,670 76,458 23,472 NON-RESIDENTS (DAILY) 16,078 18,903 1,561 160,780 189,030 15,610 SENIOR (DAILY) 882 900 222 2,646 2,700 666 SENIOR NON-RES. (DAILY) 562 624 30 3,372 3,744 180 GLOW GOLF DROP-IN - - 20 - - 100 BUSES (DAILY) 110 132 - 3,300 3,960 - ANNUAL BUS ------MINI BUS 61 44 1 915 660 15 ANNUAL MINI BUS ------30,770 35,006 6,970 $ 291,103 $ 323,982 $ 78,158
PERCENT OF NON-RESIDENTS: ANNUAL 10.05% 10.60% 7.60% DAILY 57.44% 58.87% 27.79%
WATER PARK POOL ATTENDANCE
2018 2019 2020 2018 2019 2020
DAILY ENTRANCE 96,531 123,418 4 $ 878,080 $ 1,040,014 $ 48
96,531 123,418 4 $ 878,080 $ 1,040,014 $ 48
PROGRAMMING & RETAIL OPERATIONS
2018 2019 2020 2018 2019 2020
DAYCAMP 1,866 1,941 - $ 50,388 $ 52,405 $ - BIRTHDAY PACKAGES 46 34 - 6,372 8,162 - AQUATICS PROGRAMMING 118 726 - 608 2,731 - DISC GOLF - 4,432 2,832 - 8,864 5,664 SPECIAL EVENTS 374 3,449 855 5,029 33,100 9,552 2,404 10,582 3,687 $ 62,397 $ 105,262 $ 15,216
24 ROLLING HILLS COUNTY PARK YEAR-TO-DATE PARTICIPATION & REVENUE REPORT NOVEMBER
PROGRAMMING & RETAIL OPERATIONS (cont'd)
2018 2019 2020 2018 2019 2020
FACILITY RENTALS WEEKDAYS 40 26 2 $ 3,595 $ 2,543 $ 40 WEEKENDS 143 158 17 15,215 17,712 1,560 SOCCER FIELDS 4,841 5,289 192 19,530 15,200 550 WATERPARK SHELTERS 30 33 - 1,167 1,240 - 5,054 5,506 211 $ 39,507 $ 36,695 $ 2,150
TOBOGGANS 244 229 - $ 732 $ 687 $ - CROSS COUNTRY SKIS 291 177 - 873 531 - MISC. RETAIL 373 - - 2,096 - - 908 406 - $ 3,701 $ 1,218 $ -
LOCKERS 20,897 23,002 - $ 5,224 $ 5,751 $ - FOOD CONCESSIONS 90,216 113,264 - 188,763 226,386 - MISCELLANEOUS 525 596 - 6,724 3,198 - GIFT CERTIFICATE SALES - 40 4 40 412 478 111,638 136,902 4 $ 200,751 $ 235,746 $ 478
2018 2019 2020 2018 2019 2020
YTD TOTAL PARTICIPATION & REVENUE: 247,305 311,820 10,876 $ 1,475,538 $ 1,742,917 $ 96,050
25 RECREATION CENTER YEAR-TO-DATE PARTICIPATION & REVENUE REPORT NOVEMBER
MEMBERSHIPS
2018 2019 2020 2018 2019 2020 INDIVIDUAL RESIDENT 1,098 961 375 $ 225,107 $ 200,211 $ 69,104 INDIVIDUAL NON-RESIDENT 15 19 5 4,725 5,875 2,060 S/Y/D RESIDENT 1,406 1,350 471 235,843 222,092 76,432 S/Y/D NON-RESIDENT 7 4 3 1,820 1,050 788 FAMILY RESIDENT 269 276 136 102,046 104,550 36,222 FAMILY NON-RESIDENT 1 2 1 743 1,480 735 FAMILY - ADDT'L MEMBER 19 16 9 1,248 1,021 307 SENIORS OVER 80 382 406 139 22,865 24,090 7,965 PERSONAL TRAINERS 24 18 1 8,275 5,960 303 MILITARY PASS 1 3 3 180 360 366 30-DAY PASS 875 754 447 39,370 32,600 19,218 SEASONAL PASS 175 126 - 13,955 9,920 - REPLACEMENT PASS 103 - 36 103 - 36 SUB-TOTAL 4,375 3,935 1,626 $ 656,279 $ 609,210 $ 213,536
PASS FACILITY USE 178,021 158,468 52,235 PERCENT OF NON-RESIDENTS: 0.82% 0.96% 0.91%
DAILY ENTRIES
2018 2019 2020 2018 2019 2020 INDIVIDUAL RESIDENT 8,634 8,187 2,552 $ 69,072 $ 65,496 $ 20,416 INDIVIDUAL NON-RESIDENT 1,173 900 212 10,557 8,100 1,908 S/Y/D RESIDENT 7,541 7,476 2,122 45,246 44,856 12,732 S/Y/D NON-RESIDENT 420 328 105 2,940 2,296 735 INDIVIDUAL FITNESS RESIDENT 222 205 46 1,776 1,256 264 INDIVIDUAL FITNESS NON-RESIDENT 23 - - 207 - - SENIOR FITNESS RESIDENT 624 553 129 3,744 3,041 756 SENIOR FITNESS NON-RESIDENT 8 16 3 56 35 14 DAILY PASS/GIFT CERTIFICATE SALES - - 75 3,438 3,606 450 SUB-TOTAL 18,645 17,665 5,244 $ 137,036 $ 128,686 $ 37,275
PERCENT OF NON-RESIDENTS: 8.71% 7.04% 6.19%
OTHER REVENUE
2018 2019 2020 2018 2019 2020 DAYCAMP 3,294 3,299 23 $ 88,943 $ 89,077 $ 630 RECREATION PROGRAMS 35,794 35,770 12,489 193,975 185,508 30,155 FACILITY RENTALS POOL/STUDIO/GYM 395 252 106 6,833 6,050 2,554 PARTY PAVILION 30 - - 415 - - MISC. RETAIL 343 - 96 10,355 10,886 2,682 LOCKERS 34,713 29,267 9,068 8,678 7,317 2,267 VENDING - - - 2,226 1,425 1,208 SUB-TOTAL 74,569 68,588 21,783 $ 311,424 $ 300,264 $ 39,497
2018 2019 2020 2018 2019 2020
YTD TOTAL PARTICIPATION & REVENUE: 275,610 248,656 80,888 $ 1,104,739 $ 1,038,160 $ 290,307
26 PIERCE LAKE GOLF COURSE YEAR-TO-DATE PARTICIPATION & REVENUE REPORT NOVEMBER
GREEN FEES
2018 2019 2020 2018 2019 2020 WEEKDAYS REGULAR - 9 682 943 708 $ 6,030 $ 7,483 $ 8,028 SR/JR/STUDENT - 9 498 525 671 7,203 7,532 11,325 LEAGUES - 9 3,631 4,104 2,771 58,096 65,931 47,585 REGULAR - 18 2,214 2,151 3,995 63,940 64,394 120,135 SR/JR/STUDENT - 18 4,503 4,379 3,481 90,416 88,380 83,348 TWI-LIGHT 2,016 1,948 2,140 33,781 32,318 42,495 WEEKENDS REGULAR - 9 214 250 261 4,823 5,486 6,713 SR/JR/STUDENT - 9 12 39 38 192 624 722 REGULAR - 18 3,463 3,647 3,621 113,986 121,243 129,314 SR/JR/STUDENT - 18 274 289 252 7,124 7,514 7,288 TWI-LIGHT 1,190 1,295 1,390 26,700 29,665 35,440 EARLY BIRD - 9 42 58 36 672 928 684 MEMBERSHIPS ULTIMATE PACKAGE 310 426 523 3,850 9,500 14,776 WEEKDAY PACKAGE 623 765 1,218 7,229 9,400 10,257 WEEKEND PACKAGE 97 139 - 750 750 - TWI-LIGHT PACKAGE 150 355 320 3,200 5,525 3,850 OUTINGS (WEEKDAYS & WEEKENDS) 1,356 1,176 92 41,967 35,911 2,668 21,275 22,489 21,517 $ 469,959 $ 492,585 $ 524,628
PROGRAMMING & RETAIL OPERATIONS
2018 2019 2020 2018 2019 2020
CARTS 17,566 17,554 16,932 $ 119,067 $ 118,507 $ 116,564 RENTALS 43 66 28 670 660 280 17,609 17,620 16,960 $ 119,737 $ 119,167 $ 116,844
FOOD & BEVERAGE 44,553 45,069 30,492 $ 116,925 $ 120,885 $ 82,721 PRO SHOP 2,905 3,370 2,796 30,915 37,882 34,008 DISCOUNTS - - - (84,861) (71,308) (89,581) VENDING - - - 1,001 817 1,299 47,458 48,439 33,288 $ 63,980 $ 88,276 $ 28,447
2018 2019 2020 2018 2019 2020
YTD TOTAL PARTICIPATION & REVENUE: 86,342 88,548 71,765 $ 653,676 $ 700,028 $ 669,918
27 INDEPENDENCE LAKE COUNTY PARK YEAR-TO-DATE PARTICIPATION & REVENUE REPORT NOVEMBER
GATE
2018 2019 2020 2018 2019 2020
RESIDENTS (ANNUAL) 1,075 963 1,016 $ 32,250 $ 27,930 $ 30,480 NON-RESIDENTS (ANNUAL) 162 173 184 7,290 7,245 8,280 RESIDENTS (DAILY) 6,556 5,619 5,234 39,336 33,714 31,404 NON-RESIDENTS (DAILY) 5,165 4,892 4,493 51,650 48,920 44,930 SENIOR (DAILY) 560 575 508 1,680 1,725 1,524 SENIOR-NON RES. (DAILY) 289 321 257 1,734 1,926 1,542 BUSES (DAILY) 35 19 - 1,050 570 - ANNUAL BUS - 8 - - 150 - MINI BUS 26 20 3 390 300 45 ANNUAL MINI BUS - 15 3 - 525 225 13,868 12,605 11,698 $ 135,380 $ 123,005 $ 118,430
PERCENT OF NON-RESIDENTS: ANNUAL 13.1% 15.2% 15.3% DAILY 43.4% 45.7% 45.3%
BLUE HERON BAY ATTENDANCE
2018 2019 2020 2018 2019 2020
BHB ANNUAL PASSES - 132 - $ - $ 2,388 $ - BHB DAILY ENTRANCE 14,074 12,725 - 56,886 47,212 - 14,074 12,857 - $ 56,886 $ 49,600 $ -
BLUE HERON BAY RETAIL OPERATION
2018 2019 2020 2018 2019 2020
FACILITY RENTALS 12 4 - $ 225 $ 80 $ - BIRTHDAY PACKAGES 27 15 - 3,322 1,541 - SPECIAL EVENTS 1 3 - 50 250 - 40 22 - $ 3,597 $ 1,871 $ -
LOCKERS 114 143 - $ 29 $ 36 $ - FOOD CONCESSIONS 11,105 10,229 118 22,785 21,434 125 ACCESSORIES/MISC. 46 39 2 104 55 50 11,265 10,411 120 $ 22,917 $ 21,524 $ 175
28 INDEPENDENCE LAKE COUNTY PARK YEAR-TO-DATE PARTICIPATION & REVENUE REPORT NOVEMBER
PROGRAMMING & RETAIL OPERATIONS
2018 2019 2020 2018 2019 2020
DAYCAMP 1,244 1,490 6 $ 33,601 $ 40,217 $ 150 DISC GOLF - 273 4,615 - 546 9,230 SPECIAL EVENTS 262 357 306 5,469 6,512 4,039 1,506 2,120 4,927 $ 39,070 $ 47,275 $ 13,419
FACILITY RENTALS WEEKDAYS 25 73 8 $ 2,400 $ 4,725 $ 880 WEEKENDS 79 85 33 9,600 10,025 3,950 104 158 41 $ 12,000 $ 14,750 $ 4,830
ROW BOATS-HOURLY 190 144 - $ 950 $ 720 $ - ROW BOATS-DAILY 26 32 - 520 640 - PADDLE BOATS-1/2 HOUR 475 449 - 3,325 3,143 - 691 625 - $ 4,795 $ 4,503 $ -
FOOD CONCESSIONS 8,916 6,972 5,287 $ 16,475 $ 11,876 $ 10,739 ACCESSORIES/MISC. - 33 21 52 130 112 8,916 7,005 5,308 $ 16,526 $ 12,006 $ 10,850
2018 2019 2020 2018 2019 2020
YTD TOTAL PARTICIPATION & REVENUE: 50,464 45,803 22,094 $ 291,172 $ 274,534 $ 147,705
29 #7A
Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission
MEMORANDUM
To: Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission From: Coy P. Vaughn, Director Date: December 8, 2020 Re: 2020 Connecting Communities Project Awards
Background Between 2010 and 2014 WCPARC ran a successful Connecting Communities (CC) grant program, providing communities with funds to improve non-motorized connectivity for locally significant projects. The CC program was discontinued in 2015 but was reinstated with the passage of a four-year road millage, which allocates 20% of the revenue to WCPARC for non-motorized trails. The millage was renewed in August 2020 for another four years.
The 2017-2020 CC program allows up to $100,000 per year to be awarded for planning and design studies and up to $500,000 per year for construction projects. However, in the past, staff has administratively accommodated a range of submissions by allowing some flexibility in allocating funds between these two sources. Due to overcommitting of funds in the 2019 grant cycle, $90,000 is available for Planning and $500,000 for Construction in 2020.
Discussion The 2020 Round of CC grants was announced in June and the deadline for submissions was September 15, 2020. Five applications were received from the following five communities: City of Chelsea, City of Saline, City of Ypsilanti, Pittsfield Township, and Superior Township. In 2020, planning/engineering funding requests totaled $239,827 and construction funding requests totaled $849,309.
Projects were reviewed and scored by staff (summary attached), and staff has been in contact with the applicants to seek additional project information and clarifications.
Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission Tel: (734) 971-6337 2230 Platt Road / P.O. Box 8645 Fax: (734) 971-6386 Ann Arbor, Michigan 48107-8645 washtenaw.org/parks 30 Recommendation Based on review of the grant applications by staff, I recommend that the Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission authorize staff to prepare project agreements to award grants as follows:
Applicant Request Award Award Planning (P) Construction (C) City of Chelsea $49,827 (P), $199,309 (C) Not Funded $200,000 City of Saline $400,000 (C) Not Funded City of Ypsilanti $15,000 (P) $15,000 Pittsfield Twp $50,000 (P), $250,000 (C) Not Funded $250,000 Superior Twp $125,000 (P) $125,000 ($38,000 design + $87,000 CE/CA) Total $239,827 (P), $849,309 (C) $140,000 $450,000
Staff Scoring Summary
31 #7B
Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission
MEMORANDUM
TO: Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Coy P. Vaughn, Director DATE: December 8, 2020 RE: Final Approval Dyer Property -- Manchester Township Background Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission staff was contacted by the Dyers, to inquire about the possible fee simple acquisition of their 22-acre property in Manchester Township. The property contains 2 parcels of land; one consists of approximately 10.6 acres of an abandoned railroad corridor that connect to the Watkins Lake State Park and County Preserve, and the other is an approximately 12-acre parcel of land that abuts Austin Road. The 12-acre parcel was intended to be used as trailhead and east side parking lot for Watkins Lake State Park and County Preserve. At the time of the original purchase for Watkins Lake County Preserve, Parks acquisition funds were used for the railroad corridor portion. Given that and the intended use of the remainder parcel as parking lot and trailhead, the property was not reviewed by the Natural Area Technical Advisory Committee (NATAC).
Discussion In February 2020, the Parks Commission approved a sales contract in the amount of $61,628 for the purchase of the 10.6-acre parcel of land that contains the abandoned railroad corridor. Subsequent to executing a sales contract, due diligence was completed. The Phase I identified a Recognized Environmental Concern (REC) in relationship to the prior existence of the railroad corridor and the adjacent property being used as a junk yard for several decades. As follow up, soil borings and groundwater samples were taken and analyzed as part of a Phase II ESA investigation. The groundwater samples came back below all state cleanup criteria. A couple of metals (arsenic and selenium) were reported in one soil sample at concentrations above the EGLE Generic Residential Cleanup Criteria (GRCC). Since we are not installing a drinking water well on the property and the property is being used for a trail, it does not affect our future intended use and development of the corridor trail. A Baseline Environmental Assessment (BEA) for statutory liability protection for the pre- existing conditions and a Due Care Plan have been completed and have been reviewed by our attorney to satisfy your Part 20107(a) due care obligations.
Recommendation Based upon the review by staff, the property’s connectivity to Watkins Lake State Park and County Preserve, and the importance of this property to establish a trail connection to the Village of Manchester, I recommend that the Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission authorize the purchase of the above described property, for $61,628 contingent upon attorney approval of final documents.
Attachments
Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission Tel: (734) 971-6337 2230 Platt Road / P.O. Box 8645 Fax: (734) 971-6386 Ann Arbor, Michigan 48107-8645 washtenaw.org/parks 32 33 34 #8A
Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission
MEMORANDUM
To: Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission From: Coy P. Vaughn, Director Date: December 8, 2020 Re: Recommendation for Partnership – Hamilton Property, Ann Arbor Greenbelt, Salem Township
Background In 2019, the Ann Arbor Greenbelt program received an application for preservation of the Hamilton property in Salem Township for the purchase of a conservation easement. The Greenbelt subsequently forwarded the application to NAPP for review in anticipation of requesting a partnership contribution. The property was included in both ALPAC’s and NATAC’s Round 19 (2019) review of properties.
Discussion The Hamilton property stretches along Tower Road between Five Mile Road and Brookville Road. At 375.25 acres, this is the largest conservation easement NAPP has reviewed to date.
Since the property’s land use is primarily active agriculture, it was first reviewed by ALPAC for a potential contribution. The Hamilton property received 58/88 points on ALPAC’s scoring system; their established minimum points for consideration for NAPP is 55 points. A remarkable category within their scoring, besides the size of the property, is the greatest amount of road frontage seen in the last several years: ~7900 feet, or 1.5 miles. The Assessment & Prioritization Mapping labels all the eligible parcels medium- high or high quality and prioritized most of the parcels for preservation based on patch expansion and stream protection.
Recognizing that the Hamilton property had 60+ acres of forest and some potential grasslands, NATAC also evaluated the property and conducted a site visit in September 2019. There were distinctly minimal invasive species present, and the forest was composed of rich set of trees and understory plants, plus a wide creek runs through the length of the woods. NATAC placed the property in their Tier 1 priority category.
The Commission’s scoring system for NAPP properties yields 65/100 points when scored as an agricultural conservation easement and 59/100 under natural areas easement. The difference is due to how the Assessment & Prioritization Mapping prioritized the property for natural areas vs. agriculture.
The property consists of all or part of 8 tax parcels. The 375.25-acre easement is less three building exclusions; two are around existing building sites, and one is for a future building site. The complexity of the Hamilton project lies in the future ownership of each the 8 parcels among the family members who are trustees of the trust. To accommodate the wealth division within the family, the easement will allow for four land divisions along existing tax parcel lines. Two of the created easement areas will have a building envelope for future agricultural buildings only. These divisions are allowed by NRCS under the ACEP grant, because none of the resulting easements after division will be smaller than the county’s median farm size.
Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission Tel: (734) 971-6337 2230 Platt Road / P.O. Box 8645 Fax: (734) 971-6386 Ann Arbor, Michigan 48107-8645 washtenaw.org/parks 35 The City of Ann Arbor Greenbelt ordered an appraisal dated August 2020 that determined a before value of $4,885,000, after value of $1,315,000, and thus an easement value of $3,570,000. The City of Ann Arbor Greenbelt applied for and received an ACEP grant that covers 49% of that purchase price. The Greenbelt requested a 25% contribution from NAPP, but ALPAC and NATAC together ultimately offered 21% ($749,700). Greenbelt staff have indicated that the Greenbelt are able to cover the remainder.
ALPAC recommended at its November 17, 2020 meeting to partner with the Greenbelt and contribute $392,700 toward the easement purchase. NATAC recommended at its November 2, 2020 to contribute $357,000 toward the easement purchase.
The City of Ann Arbor would be responsible for monitoring and enforcing the conservation easement.
ACEP grant $1,749,300 (49%) Greenbelt $1,071,000 (30%) WCPARC $749,700 (21%) (10% NATAC, 11% ALPAC) FMV $3,570,000 (~$9,514/acre)
Recommendation Based upon the review by the Agricultural Lands Preservation Advisory Committee, the Natural Areas Technical Advisory Committee, and staff, it is my recommendation that the Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission partner with the Ann Arbor Greenbelt program for the purchase of a conservation easement on the Hamilton property in Salem Township, as identified in the attached maps and contribute $749,700 toward the purchase, and contribute of $7,500 to the stewardship special revenue fund to cover potential future costs associated with monitoring and enforcement of the conservation easement, contingent upon attorney review of documents and execution of participation agreement.
Attachments
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Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission
MEMORANDUM
To: Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission From: Coy P. Vaughn, Director Date: December 8, 2020 Re: Border-to-Border Trail Easement, Lima Township
Background In 2019, the first segment of Border-to-Border Trail (B2B) between the cities of Dexter and Chelsea was completed. The project was funded in partnership with the Huron Waterloo Pathways Initiative (HWPI) and traverses 2.1 miles of the approximately 6 mile long corridor between the cities, from Freer Rd to Lima Center Rd. Later in 2019, an 80-acre parcel of land on the northeast corner of Dexter Chelsea Rd and Dancer Rd in Lima Township, was listed for sale. HWPI saw an opportunity to create a better and safer trail experience than a road- adjacent trail and made an offer to purchase the property, which was accepted.
Discussion HWPI desires to gift a Non-Motorized Recreational Trail Easement to the Commission for the purpose of constructing and maintaining the B2B. The proposed easement is typically 60-feet wide and traverses approximately 3,500 linear feet – an area of 4.82 acres. The property has ½ mile of road frontage along Dexter-Chelsea Rd and will minimize the environmental footprint of the project by providing flexibility in the trail’s alignment. Maps and a draft of the proposed easement are attached.
Recommendation Based on review of the easement by staff and pending final approval of legal counsel, I recommend that the Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission authorize staff to accept and execute easement for the Border-to-Border Trail project in Lima Township.
Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission Tel: (734) 971-6337 2230 Platt Road / P.O. Box 8645 Fax: (734) 971-6386 Ann Arbor, Michigan 48107-8645 washtenaw.org/parks 45 46 47 NON-MOTORIZED RECREATION TRAIL EASEMENT AGREEMENT This Agreement made made this ___ day of ______, 2020 between Washtenaw County, a municipal corporation, by the Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission, 2230 Platt Road, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48104 (WCPARC) and Huron Waterloo Pathways Initiative, a Michigan nonprofit corporation, 14800 East Old US-12, Chelsea, Michigan, 48118 (HWPI). R E C I T A L S A. WCPARC intends to provide funding and technical assistance for the design, project management, and construction of a ten (10) foot wide pedestrian and non-motorized vehicle trail (Trail) for public outdoor recreational use. B. HWPI is the owner of real property described in the attached Exhibit C (Property). C. HWPI is willing to convey, and WPCARC is willing to accept, a variable width, maximum sixty (60) foot wide easement for the uses set forth herein over and across its Property within which the Trail shall be located in perpetuity. D. The undersigned parties have agreed to cooperate in the development of the Trail for the mutual benefit of residents of Washtenaw County. Now, therefore, in consideration of the mutual benefits contained herein and the sum of one dollar ($1.00) receipt of which is hereby acknowledged by HWPI, the undersigned parties agree as follows: 1. Grant of Easement. HWPI hereby grants to WCPARC a sixty (60) foot wide non-exclusive easement to construct, repair, and maintain the Trail and for public pedestrian and non- motorized vehicle use of the Trail over and across the Property which shall be approximately (30) feet located on each side of a centerline which is described on Exhibit A attached, excepting any area that is outside of HWPI’s Property or within any road right- of-way. WCPARC agrees to accept the Property “as is”, with all faults and with no warranty as to its condition. 2. Grant of Easement. HWPI hereby grants to WCPARC a forty (40) foot wide non-exclusive easement to construct, repair, and maintain the Trail and for public pedestrian and non- motorized vehicle use of the Trail over and across the Property which shall be approximately (20) feet located on each side of a centerline which is described on Exhibit B attached, excepting any area that is outside of HWPI’s Property or within any road right- of-way. WCPARC agrees to accept the Property “as is”, with all faults and with no warranty as to its condition. Reverter: In the event that WCPARC does not initiate physical construction of the Trail as described solely in Exhibit B within 5 (five) years of
1 48 the date of execution of this easement, then all right title and interest in and to the property described in Exhibit B shall automatically revert to HWPI or the current landowner unless an extension of term is agreed upon in writing by all parties to this agreement. 3. Trail Components. The undersigned parties acknowledge and agree that the Trail shall generally consist of a ten (10) foot wide asphalt pathway but may also be constructed from other materials, including boardwalks in areas where the installation of an asphalt pathway is not viable. Furthermore, site improvements may include other improvements such as benches, signs, and related items at the discretion of WCPARC. All such construction shall be by WCPARC at its sole cost and expense and done in accordance with standards applied throughout WCPARC facilities as well as ordinances and other building and zoning regulations imposed by local jurisdictions or the State of Michigan. HWPI and WCPARC will coordinate the exercise of WCPARC’s rights hereunder so as to minimize any interference with HWPI’s operations at the Property. WCPARC shall restore any portion of the Property disturbed by the exercise of WCPARC’s rights under this Agreement to substantially the same condition as existed prior to such disturbance by WCPARC, except to the extent the disturbance constitutes an authorized facility or appurtenance installed and maintained pursuant to and consistent with this Agreement. 4. Restrictions of the Landowner. HWPI shall not perform any of the following within the easement without prior written approval of WCPARC: erection of any structure, landscape construction, excavation, earthwork, alteration of surface drainage patterns, directional boring, tree or shrub removal, or other activities that may negatively impact the trail. HWPI acknowledges that any of the above activities undertaken without WCPARC approval may result in corrective actions by WCPARC at the sole expense of HWPI. 5. Future Easements and Superiority. HWPI shall not grant any easement(s) across this Trail Easement to any third party without prior written consent of WCPARC. This Trail Easement shall be considered Superior to any easement(s) that may be granted in the future. 6. Remedy for Dispute. Future projects related to the Trail, which are required due to damage, deterioration or due to regulatory compliance issues, may be initiated, developed and constructed by WCPARC at its sole discretion with notification provided to HWPI. HWPI and WCPARC agree to submit any disputes to mediation or other mutually agreeable third party for resolution. 7. Successors and Assigns. This Agreement shall be binding on, and shall inure to the benefit of the parties and their respective successors and assigns. WCPARC may assign its rights pursuant to this Agreement without the prior written consent of HWPI. 8. Amendment. This Agreement may not be modified, replaced, amended or terminated without the prior written consent of the parties to this Agreement. 9. Severability. The various parts, sections and clauses of this Agreement are hereby declared to be severable. If any part, sentence, paragraph, section or clause is adjudged unconstitutional or invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected thereby. 10. Controlling Law. This Agreement shall be interpreted and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Michigan and shall be subject to enforcement only in Michigan courts.
2 49 11. Run with the Land. The terms, provisions and conditions of this Agreement are and shall be deemed to be of benefit to the Property and shall run with and bind said Property, and shall bind and inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of the parties to this Agreement. 12. Entire Agreement. The Agreement sets forth the entire understanding of the parties; further, this Agreement shall supersede and/or replace any oral or written Agreement(s) related to this subject matter entered into by the parties before the date of this Agreement. This instrument is exempt from state and county transfer tax pursuant to MCL 207.526(a) and MCL 207.505(a).
In witness whereof, the undersigned have executed this instrument on the ____ day of ______, 2020.
Huron Waterloo Pathways Initiative
By:______
Its:______
STATE OF MICHIGAN ) ) ss: COUNTY OF WASHTENAW )
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me this ____ day of ______, 2020 by ______who being by me duly sworn, did say that he/she is the ______of Huron Waterloo Pathways Initiative and did represent that he/she was duly authorized to execute this document on behalf of said Michigan public body.
______, Notary Public Washtenaw County, Michigan Acting in Washtenaw County My Commission Expires: ______
Washtenaw County, by the Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission
By:______Coy P. Vaughn, Director
STATE OF MICHIGAN
3 50 COUNTY OF WASHTENAW
On this _____ day of ______, 2020, before me, a Notary Public in and for said County, personally appeared Coy P. Vaughn, who being by me duly sworn, did say that he is Director of the Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission and did represent that he was duly authorized to execute this document on behalf of Washtenaw County.
______, Notary Public Washtenaw County, Michigan Acting in ______County My commission expires:______
Prepared by and when recorded return to:
Ian James Reach, Esq. Reach Law Firm Recording Fee: $30.00 106 N. Fourth Ave. Tax Parcel No: G-07-02-300-004 Ann Arbor, MI 48104
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