Vote YES on the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Millage

November 3, 2020

Oakland County Parks and recreation Millage - november 3, 2020

Important information about Oakland County Parks and the upcoming millage:

For the past 54 years, Oakland County Parks and Recreation (OCPR) has been funded by a millage.  The initial .25 millage approved in 1966 was renewed by voters in five-year increments until 1990 when it became a 10-year millage. The current millage has been reduced by required Headlee rollbacks to a rate of .2310 mills and is set to expire Dec. 31, 2021.

Today, OCPR operates a variety of facilities and provides programs and special events that contribute to the overall health and wellness of Oakland County residents and the environment. Nearly 7,000 acres and 80 miles of trails across 13 park properties are explored by two million visitors of all ages and abilities annually.  Outreach programs and events are attended by an additional 1.6 million residents as a result of collaboration with local cities, villages and townships across the 910 square miles of Oakland County. 

To continue providing these recreation resources, and to create new opportunities for the 62 communities within Oakland County, the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission is seeking an increase to .35 mills in the November 3, 2020 election.  With the increased millage funding, OCPRC plans to:

•       Provide free annual vehicle passes to Oakland County seniors (62+), active military, veterans, and residents with permanent disabilities

•       Refresh current park system assets

•       Move ahead on deferred construction projects – replace worn-out facilities and add new features to meet current and future needs

•       Purchase equipment to perform maintenance that keeps the parks attractive and safe

•       Steward natural resources and open space, and promote conservation efforts

•       Contribute to recreation plans in local communities with funding for 3 priority areas: 

1.      Trailways Program:  Assist local communities with both pre-development and construction costs for trail projects in Oakland County, including shared use pathways, sidewalk connectors, bike lanes and water trails

2.      Community Partnership & Park Development Program: Provide grants to Oakland County communities for local park development, including design, engineering & construction and increase funding for Recreation Assistance Partnership Program (outreach, mobile recreation units and local event support)

3.      Invasive Species Management Program: Support existing Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA) efforts for control of invasive species throughout Oakland County by providing staff and resources to coordinate surveys and treatment that protect our important natural habitats