Madison Heights council adopts 2026–2030 Parks and Recreation Master Plan to pursue state grants

The Madison Heights City Council adopted the 2026–2030 Parks and Recreation Master Plan at this evening’s meeting, approving a staff resolution to submit the document to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources so the city remains eligible for state park and recreation grants.

City Manager Marsh, who introduced the draft, said the plan has been under development for the last year and was posted on the city website and made available in print to meet the state’s minimum 30‑day review and comment requirement. “All public comments have been addressed,” Marsh told council, and staff recommended formal adoption following the required hearing.

Council discussion focused on the plan’s level of detail, public input and its usefulness in helping the city pursue outside funding. One council member noted the document inventories each park’s condition and program needs and praised it as a practical action plan rather than a collection of aspirational ideas. The master plan also identifies accessibility targets for parks, using a 1‑to‑5 rating system with a stated goal of moving toward a barrier‑free system.

The plan highlights specific projects, including planned improvements at MacVillivray Park slated for the next fiscal year. City staff said the plan’s existence will allow the city to apply quickly for grant opportunities as they arise.

After brief discussion, council voted by voice to adopt the resolution and authorize staff to submit the master plan to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The chair declared the motion carried by voice vote.

Next steps: staff will file the adopted plan with the clerk and proceed with grant pursuit and project planning according to the priorities identified in the document.