Title
Request for Approval of a Green Space Stewardship Program for the City of Rochester Hills
Body
Whereas, the Green Space Advisory Board (GSAB) has been diligently working to acquire open space per the Green Space and Natural Features Millage approved in 2005; and
Whereas, GSAB has undertaken a steady effort to research and present the elements of a good stewardship program to protect the City residents' investment in green space; and
Whereas, the four (4) main elements of a good stewardship program are as follows:
1. A good Baseline Assessment of properties purchased with Green Space Millage funds,
2. A Management Plan that meets the requirements of the community's stewardship goals,
3. Recruit and train volunteers to implement a stewardship program,
4. A continual education and communication program with surrounding property owners and the community;
Whereas, GSAB recommends that a good start to a Stewardship Program would be, at a minimum, to conduct a baseline assessment of all properties that are acquired under this program or purchased with Green Space Millage funds;
Whereas, that expenditure of GSAB millage funds outside of purchases will be limited to:
1. Outline corners of property,
2. Remove rubbish,
3. Make a baseline assessment of physical features of the property; and
4. Perform an annual visitation and inspection of the property.
Resolved, that the City Council concurs with the recommendation of GSAB and requests the Mayor to implement the elements of a good Stewardship Program for the City of Rochester Hills for Green Space acquired under this program as funds are identified and become available.