• Re. Gwen Nystuen’s question about how the lease payment to Norfolk Southern was funded prior to the open space & parkland preservation millage, Smith writes: “Prior to FY2008, the lease agreements with Norfolk Southern were paid out of the General Fund / Parks. Changes were made in FY2007 to the Chapter 42 Ordinance language to clarify and provide more specificity regarding the types of land rights eligible under the millage. At this time, specific language was added allowing costs for leased rights to land to be allocated to the millage. Since those ordinance changes took place, the lease agreements have been paid out of the land acquisition millage. [.pdf of changes made in FY2007 to the ordinance]

• Re. David Barrett’s question about the location and experience of Michigan Recreational Construction Inc., which PAC recommended to handle renovations at Placid Way Park. Smith writes: “Amy [Kuras, city park planner] confirms she has worked with them in the past and they are very good. They are based out of Brighton.”

• Re. Tim Berla’s questions regarding the status of remaining work at West Park, Smith answered:

1. When will the posts in the water be removed? The contractor responsible for the aquatic plants will be back in May, possibly earlier given the weather, to evaluate how well established the plants are and when the posts can be removed.

2. Can a bench be put on the boardwalk? There were no plans for the construction project to put a bench there, but we could in the future, especially if someone wants to donate one! It was conceived more as a gathering place.

3. When will the hole be filled in? The hole [where the failed swirl concentrator was located] should be fixed in May/June. Still waiting on the agreement from the attorneys with the supplier who is supposed to repair the units.