Where other funding options exhausted before asking the citizens for a millage?  

Currently, the City of Plymouth does not have a formal parks and recreation sponsorship program. Recently, when a citizen asked about sponsoring a park they were told sponsorships are on hold until after the millage vote.

Page 15 of the  5-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2024-2028 states:

“The origin of the Adopt-A-Park Program began in the early 1980’s when the City Recreation Department began approaching local service groups to help in the improvement of the valuable green spaces in the City. This led to the names of the parks in the City as they are more commonly known today.”

The 5-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2024-2028 references the City of Plymouth Strategic Plan on page 53 and lists “review park sponsorship program” as one of the objectives and/or tasks related to parks and recreation. This task was designated as a One-Year task for 2023, approved by the City Commission at their February 21, 2023 meeting. However, it appears that this task was not completed and has not been carried over as a One-Year task for 2024.

Formalizing a Parks and Recreation sponsorship program could reduce or possibly eliminate the need for a millage by creating a consistent revenue stream through:

• Defined Sponsorship Tiers: A formal program typically outlines various levels of sponsorship, each with specific benefits (e.g., naming rights, signage, promotional opportunities). This structure makes it easier for sponsors to understand the value of their investment and commit to ongoing support.
• Long-Term Agreements: By formalizing the program, the city can secure multi-year commitments from sponsors. This provides a steady flow of funds over time, allowing the city to plan and budget for future projects with greater confidence.
• Attractive Marketing Opportunities: Sponsors are more likely to invest when they see clear and consistent marketing benefits. A formal program ensures that sponsors receive recognition through signage, media coverage, or event promotions, making the sponsorship attractive and likely to be renewed.
• Transparent and Professional Processes: A well-organized program builds trust with potential sponsors, who are more likely to contribute when they see a transparent and professional approach. This consistency encourages repeat sponsorships and can attract new sponsors over time.
• Increased Community Engagement: Many organizations and individuals want to help, but don’t know how or are leery if a transparent program is not in place. Clearly defined options for businesses, community organizations, nonprofits, neighborhoods, and individuals to contribute engages more of the community, fosters a greater sense of ownership, and often leads to increased volunteerism and advocacy.

Our community has seen success with structured programs, such as the recent campaign for the PARC Pickleball courts. Key factors contributing to its success include:

Defined Project: Donors had clear information on the project’s goals, costs, and timeline.

Defined Donor Levels and Recognition: Contributions ranged from $100 to $10,000, with recognition provided via social media and plaques at the courts.

Pre-Approved Matching Grant: A $50,000 matching grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) was secured before the campaign launched.

Another example is the Miracle League of Plymouth, which demonstrates how a structured sponsorship program can generate consistent revenue. For instance, a $500 donation secures a 2 ft by 3 ft dugout banner displayed for one year. The next year would generate another $500 for the banner space.

Implementing a structured program could also enhance the effectiveness of existing in-kind sponsorships, such as those provided by the Plymouth Pollinators and the Plymouth Garden Club. Without a formal program, potential contributors may be unsure how to get involved, and the Recreation Department faces inefficiencies in managing these contributions. A structured approach would streamline the process and better support the city’s parks and recreation efforts.