1. PARC is a nonprofit. It runs the former Central Middle School complex (also called PARC!), and rents former classrooms to arts, education, and recreation organizations. PARC also offers meeting space, performance space and recreation facilities for community use.
2. Each organization based at PARC offers community-focused services, programs, and events. Visit www.plymouthparc.org to see the full list and sign up for email alerts about events and more. Or follow PARC on Facebook: www.facebook.com/PlymouthPARC
3. PARC has thrived since opening its doors in August 2015. Thousands of people from the city and township, and beyond, have come to PARC for classes, sports practices, rehearsals, performances, workshops, competitions, meetings and hands-on skill building.
4. But the building is old (parts of it are 100 years old!). Donations and rental income have brought PARC this far, but infrastructure upgrades are needed to ensure PARC's long-term future. Without new funds, the complex may have to close and be sold on the open market.
5. An in-depth study by an independent expert showed that adding a performing arts center to the PARC complex would bring in needed operating funds and serve high community demand for more performance space. Learn more about the proposed center at www.plymouthparcproject.com.
6. To determine PARC's future, the city and township have created a joint Parks and Recreation Authority (PARA), a public body similar to the joint authority that oversees the Plymouth District Library. PARA's board is made up of 4 representatives from the township and 3 from the city, and its members will be chosen by voters starting in 2020. Its sole purpose relates to PARC - not other recreation functions. Read its articles of incorporation.
7. Voters in the city and township will be asked to vote on November 6 to allow PARA to levy a millage that would fund renovations, infrastructure and a performing arts center.
8. If passed, this will authorize PARA's board to levy a single property millage of no more than 0.75 mills for 20 years. That's less than $100 a year for an average homeowner. Here's a breakdown of what it will cost people who own properties of different values. Read more about what would happen if it passes or fails.
9. Property values are predicted to rise if the project moves forward and adds to our community's appeal.
10. A YES vote on November 6 is critical to the future of this jewel in our community. Vote YES to preserve the past and create the future. Vote YES to protect this gem for all ages and interests, for all of the Plymouth community, for all time.