Just as Independence Township planners turn to the Master Plan when deciding development issue, they should turn to a Capital Improvement Plan when considering public projects.
That was the message given by planning consultant Richard Carlisle to the Township Board at its Dec. 19 meeting.
‘It would serve as a baseline ? a decision-making guide for the board,? Carlisle said.
The Township Board authorized creation of the CIP in May, 2005. Since then, Carlisle and staff have been meeting with department heads and creating a list of projects, along with prioritization and cost. The lists have been assembled into a comprehensive, coordinated five-year plan for major improvements and purchases.
The CIP’s starting point was the Vision 2020 Master Plan, which called for community facilities that ‘promote public health, safety, and welfare, and enrich the quality of life for township residents.?
All the projects listed in the proposed plan would cost about $38 million, and include a new township hall, senior center, parks and recreation projects, and Department of Public Works facilities. It is a list of priorities, not authorization to begin any work, Carlisle said.
‘Just because something is listed as a priority doesn’t mean we’re going to do it tomorrow,? he said. ?(But) if there’s no consistent plan, you’ll never reach your objective.?
The CIP would provide planners with a clearer view of theiroptions. They would be able to identify projects with similar objectives and combine them, which would provide ‘more bang for the buck,? Carlisle said.
The CIP would be a good planning tool, although budget deficits and the economy would make funding the projects difficult, said Trustee Daniel Travis.
‘I applaud the idea of getting this started,? Travis said. ‘But with the economic constraints … dreams will have to be delayed, I’m afraid.?
Funding would mostly be pay-as-you-go from the General Fund, or borrowing through voter-approved bonds. A bond and millage proposal to build and fund a new senior center was rejected by voters this past November.
Other options are leasing or buying existing facilities, tax increases, and state and federal grants.
The next step is for a subcommittee of Township Board members, department heads, and other officials to meet in a study session and go over the list, Carlisle said.
Independence Township capital facilities and equipment needs include the following, the total of which is $37,655,000:
? General/Multi-funtion: Township hall, senior center, training facility – $9 million;
? Parks and Recreation: Bay Court Lodge, school property renovation for soccer, purchase of 19 acres south of Clintonwood Park, and other improvements – $6.2 million;
? Public works/water and sewer: up grades and renovations – $4.3 million;
? General Technology: Geographic Information System – $55,000;
? Library: New library and/or library addition, renovations – $12.7 million;
? FireDepartment/Public Safety: fire truck and ambuance replacements, replace Station 2, and for stations 4 and 5 – $5.4 million.
For more information, call the township at 248-625-5111.