Council approves parks millage ballot language after amending 'operating' to 'investing in'

Grosse Pointe Park council on July 13 approved language to place a parks and recreation millage on the November 2026 ballot, after amending the draft to better reflect the measure’s capital focus.

Staff described a proposed seven‑year millage that would dedicate revenue to capital preservation and enhancements at resident‑only parks; the packet estimated about $3.9 million in total revenue under a recommended 0.65‑mill rate, while staff said identified capital needs amount to roughly $6 million. Staff said the millage proceeds would be restricted to capital projects and would not fund wages or benefits.

During discussion councilors raised two key concerns: the ballot language included the word 'operating' in places that could confuse voters into thinking funds would pay salaries, and the final sentence of the preamble used the word 'increase' in a way that could be misleading. Council voted to amend the language by replacing 'operating' with 'investing in' in three locations and removing the word 'increase' from the final sentence. The council recorded a roll‑call vote to approve the amended wording, noting the changes are subject to final legal review.

Councilors and staff emphasized the measure is intended to preserve aging park assets — including the Windmill Point pool and a waterfront boardwalk project identified in the five‑year plan — and to provide a steady capital funding source rather than compete with general‑fund priorities.