Appropriations Requests for : Van Buren Township

1. Cosponsoring legislators:

• Darrin Camilleri

Recipient Information

2. Intended legislatively directed spending item recipient:

Van Buren Township

3. Physical address of legislatively directed spending item recipient and the intended location of the project or activity:

Parcel # 83 081 990020 001 Van Buren Township, MI 48111.

4. The recipient's employer identification number:

386007135

Funding Details

5. Requested amount of the legislatively directed spending item:

$2,000,000.00

6. What is the purpose and how does the legislatively directed spending item provide a public benefit that is an appropriate use of taxpayer money?

The Lakeside Park is a visionary community project in Van Buren Township designed to serve as a central hub for social engagement, outdoor recreation, and scenic enjoyment of Belleville Lake. The project represents the highest impact initiative for the region, as Belleville Lake is the only inland lake in Wayne County and currently lacks a dedicated lakeside community engagement hub. Project funds will specifically be used for outdoor recreational features on the new park site, including a public fishing dock and lakeside boardwalk/path, park trails, and seating areas, along with other site features and amenities. The Township acquired the 3.02-acre site in 2019 with the goal of transforming it into a multifunctional space that fosters community connection and enhances public access to the lake. The Lakeside Park will feature a beautifully designed banquet hall with panoramic lake views, a community living room with a cozy coffee bar, and state-of-the-art meeting and conference amenities for local organizations and community members to gather. The site will also include an expansive outdoor deck with a gas fire pit, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces for social gatherings and celebrations. A critical component of the project is ensuring accessibility and integration with the surrounding area. Pedestrian pathways will connect the Lakeside Park to downtown Belleville, the Iron Belle Trail, and other key locations, creating a cohesive and inclusive space for residents and visitors alike. Site enhancements will maintain the natural beauty of the lakeshore while incorporating modern landscape features, shoreline improvements, and outdoor recreational elements. Among these, a proposed fishing pier will provide unparalleled lake access for fishing, relaxation, and community enjoyment, reinforcing the Lakeside Park’s role as a destination for outdoor recreation and social interaction. Van Buren Township is seeking $2 million in funding to support the construction of the Lakeside Park. This project aligns with the Township’s commitment to expanding recreational opportunities and improving community wellness through increased access to natural resources. If awarded, this federal funding assistance would help Van Buren Township to ensure that all residents—regardless of age or ability—can experience and benefit from the beauty of Belleville Lake.

7. Has the legislatively directed spending item previously received or been awarded any of the following types of funding in the past 5 years?

No previous funding received

8. Estimated time frame for completion of the legislatively directed spending item project:

Summer 2028

Additional Information For Nonprofit Corporations

9. Is the recipient a nonprofit corporation?

Yes

4. Officers and active members on the board of directors:

Supervisor - Kevin McNamara Clerk - Leon Wright Treasurer - Sharry Budd Trustee - Byron Kelley Trustee - Kevin Martin Trustee - William Frazier Trustee - Don Boynton

Certification By Sponsoring Legislator

• "I certify that my immediate family members, legislative staff members, and I have no direct or indirect pecuniary interest in the requested legislatively directed spending item."
• "I certify that the intended recipient of this legislatively directed spending item is not a for-profit entity."
• "I certify that the information in this form is true to the best of my knowledge."

Senator Darrin Camilleri