Voters favored increased Oakland County parks millage in early returns
Oakland County voters favored the parks millage in Tuesday's early election returns.
At 9 p.m., with over 293,000 ballots counted, the millage was headed for approval 70.34% yes to 29.66% no votes.
The county commission asked voters for a 20-year renewal and 0.30 mill increase – almost 86% more than property owners now pay. The increase would add $24 million to the parks budget this year.
Taxes would increase from 35 cents to 65 cents per $1,000 in a property's value. Taxes on a home with a $500,000 value and a state-equalized value of $250,000 would see a $75 increase, from $88 to $163. The average market value of an Oakland County home is $264,000. Based on a state-equalized value of $132,000, that property owner would see a $40 increase to the current rate of $46, or $86 total.
Residents would have free admission to eight parks and three dog parks. Some features would still cost visitors: Golf courses, waterparks, campgrounds and off-road vehicle activities.
The millage would allow the county to optimize long-term financing. Plans include a $100 million investment in major capital improvements to parks, trails, attractions and the Oakland County Farmers Market. Park equipment and facilities would be designed to meet federal disability access rules. The county would partner with cities to expand parks in highly populated areas, and enhance school field trips as well as preserve and protect natural habitats, wetlands and green spaces.
In July, county commissioners approved putting the millage on the Nov. 5 ballot with split support among Republican commissioners. Republicans voting yes: Michael Gingell of Lake Orion, Christine Long of Commerce Township and Philip Weipert of South Lyon.
Democrats David Woodward of Royal Oak; Penny Luebs of Clawson; Kristen Nelson of Waterford Township; Gwen Markham of Novi; Angela Powell of Pontiac; Marcia Gershenson of Farmington Hills; William Miller III of Farmington; Yolanda Smith Charles of Southfield; Charles Cavell of Ferndale; Brendan Johnson of Rochester Hills;, Ajay Raman of Novi; Ann Erickson Gault of Troy; and Linnie Taylor of Southfield.
Three Republicans voted against the millage: Minority caucus chairman Michael Spisz of Oxford, Karen Joliat of Waterford Township and Robert Hoffman of Highland Township.
Hoffman decried the increase in an open letter, saying people who owned the county's 30,000 acres of farmland, commercial or industrial properties or apartment buildings would have the highest increases. He said he has always supported the county parks but will vote against the millage. He owns multiple properties in Oakland County.
Gingell said voters should be given the chance to decide the issue.
Commission Chairman Woodward said the millage would be an investment in parks for future generations and build healthy, vibrant and thriving communities.
Chris Ward, the county parks director, said the millage renewal and increase will be used for "much-needed improvements, to develop new parks and trails with local communities and expand preservation of natural areas and green space."
Parks Commission Chair Ebony Bagley of Novi said it is important to invest in the county's recreation facilities "to ensure they are welcoming and accessible for people of all backgrounds and abilities."
The county parks system started in 1966 with one park of 190 acres. Today the 17-park system covers more than 7,200 acres and includes 80 miles of trails. The parks draw about two million visitors each year.
