Plymouth Votes on Parks and Recreation Funding
On November 7, residents of Plymouth will have the chance to make a significant decision that could change the landscape of their community parks and recreation for years to come. A proposed charter amendment on the ballot seeks to raise local taxes to fund new parks, park amenities, and recreational opportunities over the next 12 years.
What’s at Stake?
If approved, the proposed 1.75-mill increase is estimated to generate around $1.3 million annually from 2024 to 2035. For homeowners whose properties are valued at around $300,000, this would translate to an approximate annual tax increase of $262.
Listening to the Community
Plymouth Mayor Nick Moroz has emphasized that this proposal is a response to the community’s ongoing concerns and desires regarding parks and recreation. “Through a series of four different surveys, we’ve continually asked residents how they feel about parks and recreation and what their priorities are,” Moroz explained. “It has continually come back to us that parks and recreation are a tremendous priority, a strength and a point of pride for the whole community – but also something residents want to see the City of Plymouth spend more and focus more on.”
A Long Journey to Get Here
This initiative dates back to 2018 when the city first created a joint recreation master plan with Plymouth Township. However, since then, the city has struggled to secure dedicated funding for the various projects outlined in that plan.
The mayor noted that over the past five years, the demand for parks and recreation has grown, particularly as the city faced a loss of athletic fields, specifically for soccer, at places like the Tanger Center School. This has made the task of updating their recreation master plan even more critical.
“Instead of updating the plans and not having a funding source – which is what we did last time – this is a strategy to say, ‘We know what people have been asking for,’” Moroz remarked. “We have updated lists and conceptual plans for both the maintenance and improvement for the current stock of parks and recreation facilities, and we also have the opportunity to acquire new property and deliver new and better facilities that are much needed.”
What Would the Funding Achieve?
Residents can expect various improvements if the measure passes. A website dedicated to the initiative, fundplymouthparksandrecreation.com, offers detailed information, including ballot language, the history of the recreation master plan, and even a millage cost calculator to help residents understand the financial implications of the proposal.
Among the highlighted improvements is a vision for Pointe Park located at Starkweather Street and Northville Road, which aims to incorporate landscaping, walking paths, benches, a pavilion, and play structures for children. Additionally, the city is looking to purchase the former Lumber Mart site at 639 S. Mill St. This prime three-acre piece of land is expected to be transformed into “best-in-class” athletic fields with soccer fields, pickleball courts, and other amenities.
Community Support & Benefits
Mayor Moroz expressed optimism about the proposal’s chances, stating, “We have a number of service clubs that want to work with the city on this type of thing. We’re very confident this is going to pass, and we’re going to be able to transform the parks and recreation ecosystem in the city. It’s going to benefit the township too.” Beyond just creating new spaces, the millage funds will also allow Plymouth to offer further discounted registration rates for city residents.
Transparency is Key
Plymouth City Manager Paul Sincock emphasized that the funds raised through this millage will be closely managed. “Making it a charter amendment rather than just a millage question puts a lot more limitation on it,” he noted. “The city commission was very thoughtful in their process of making sure funds would be used exclusively for recreation.”
As Plymouth residents brace themselves for the upcoming vote, it’s clear that the outcome could pave the way for new parks and recreational opportunities that the community has been asking for. Be sure to mark your calendars for November 7!
