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Pontiac adopts 2026–2030 Parks & Recreation Master Plan to restore DNR grant eligibility

Pontiac City Council · December 17, 2025

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Summary

Council adopted a five‑year parks and recreation master plan aimed at improving and maintaining 37 city parks, aligning goals with the city's master plan and preserving eligibility for state DNR grants. Residents urged attention to restroom access, park programming and the Murphy Park expansion.

Pontiac City Council voted unanimously Dec. 16 to adopt the 2026–2030 Parks & Recreation Master Plan, a document county and city staff said is required for state Department of Natural Resources grant eligibility and for coordinating park maintenance, programming and capital projects. The plan compiles park‑by‑park pages for 37 parks, accessibility (ADA) ratings, acreage, and short‑ and long‑term priorities.

Kristen Wilfang of Oakland County described accomplishments since the prior plan (skate park at Oakland Park, reopened restrooms, new maps and incorporation of recent site master plans) and explained DNR grant logos indicate parks with prior state grants and special protections. "If you see any of these logos on these pages, please consult with the DNR before you do any easements or try to sell a piece of property," she said, noting conversion issues can affect eligibility.

Public commenters asked whether restrooms would be open and clean and how park use is measured; staff said detailed metrics and park pages are included in the plan and emphasized ongoing public engagement used to prepare the draft. Councilmembers praised the plan’s thoroughness and said adopting it will position the city to apply for DNR and other grants for park renovations. The resolution to adopt the master plan passed by roll call, 7–0.

Council and staff also discussed a larger Murphy Park expansion and wetland restoration project that county water‑resources authorities will continue in 2026; council asked staff to follow up with timelines and appraisals related to the broader parks acreage deficit the city is addressing.