Mount Clemens adopts five-year Parks and Recreation plan to secure state grant eligibility

The Mount Clemens City Commission voted to adopt a new five‑year Parks and Recreation plan, a step officials said is required for eligibility for certain Michigan Department of Natural Resources grants.

Commissioner Mener, who described the plan as "marvelously comprehensive," highlighted resident survey results showing differing priorities — from natural areas to baseball diamonds — and called for equal attention across parks, citing Clinton River Park's high ranking and Sleepy Hollow's lower score. "I hope that as we go forward with this plan that there's equal attention paid to all of the parks," Mener said.

During the public hearing, Dolores Cinc urged the commission to address vandalism and safety at Shady Park, suggesting brighter lighting, shrubbery trimming and security cameras to make the park safer after dark. The plan’s availability for public comment since Dec. 28, 2016, and an open house on Jan. 12, 2017, were noted by staff.

Commissioners said the plan includes data on resident perceptions of safety and demographics: Mener pointed out that many respondents had lived in the city more than 25 years, which he said should inform park planning. Commissioner Hill and others praised planned improvements and noted successful community use — including high demand for baseball fields.

The commission adopted the plan by roll call; staff said a final copy will be filed with the state to preserve the city’s eligibility for DNR grant funding. No funding commitment beyond the plan’s adoption was made at the meeting; further project-level decisions will come later.