Farmington Hills Officials Take Up Dog Park Lease Agreement Tonight

council members will tonight consider approving a lease agreement that will bring a dog park to the community. 

Their regular meeting starts at 7:30 p.m. in council chambers at city hall.

Approved by board members earlier this month, the agreement allows city officials to use the 7.2 acre, former William Grace Elementary property during an initial period of two years, for $1. The agreement may be extended a year at a time, and terminated during the term of the lease or future extensions, with 90 days' notice. 

City manager Steve Brock said if officials approve, city staff will "get to work on logistics", like ordering fencing and deciding on a security system that will restrict access to the park.  

It's also important to have a solid base of turf, he said. "We want the grass to grow in good. You don't want to start with a mud bath." 

The property is located at 29040 Shiawassee. The city held an open house earlier this month that allowed neighbors and other residents interested in the project to talk about it with city staff members. 

Volunteers who have been working on an organizational plan for the park are forming work groups to handle orientation sessions, publicity/marketing, fund raising and events. They'll meet Thursday, March 29, 7:30 p.m., at the next to the Spicer House Visitors Center in on Farmington Road. Anyone interested in getting involved is invited to attend. 

City council members will also hold a study session at 6 p.m. Copies of agendas for both meetings are on-line at fhgov.com.