Commission accepts $91,153 in Community Foundation grants for parks programs and improvements

The Muskegon City Commission on March 25 authorized staff to accept $91,153 from Community Foundation funds earmarked for parks and recreation projects and programming.

Kyle Korcheski, director of Parks and Recreation, told commissioners the sum represents multiple restricted funds held at the Community Foundation, in some cases covering two years of accumulated dollars. The commission‑approved uses include teen programming and summer recreation staffing supported by the Daryl and Kathleen Staley Charity Fund; a MobiMat system to improve beach access near Pere Marquette from a Michigan Parks Association grant paired with city funds; Lakeshore Trail maintenance and deck replacement; and landscaping, painting and small improvements at Celebration Square’s splash pad area.

Korcheski said the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee reviewed and recommended the proposed expenditures. Commissioners praised the work and the role of private donors and the Community Foundation; Vice Mayor Sinclair and others noted community philanthropic funds have supported Hackley Park landscaping and other long‑running projects.

The commission voted by roll call to accept the funds and authorize staff to receive grants and awards totaling $91,153 for parks and recreation purposes. Korcheski said the department will now incorporate those funds into this year’s programming and capital maintenance plans.