Recreation director talks about what’s at stake with tax renewal

By Charles Sercombe
Hamtramck voters are being asked to renew a 10-year recreation tax on Aug. 4.
A number of voters have already received absentee ballots.
We asked Recreation Department Director Craig Daniels to talk about the recreation program and what is at stake for the community. Here is part of that discussion:
Review: How long has the school district’s recreation program been operating with support from this tax?
Daniels: The Recreation Department has been operating since 1996 with this millage.
Review: Is this a tax increase?
Daniels: No, this is not a tax increase. It is a renewal of the existing recreation millage.
Review: What programs are offered?
Daniels: We have youth programs such as: Soccer, karate, cricket, basketball, dance, summer camp, and basketball. We also offer senior programs such as tailored fitness classes, social gatherings and field trips.
Our pool offers swim lessons, water aerobics, open swim and adult lap (swimming), and our community center offers a weight room, sauna, fitness classes and basketball/racquetball courts.
We also offer special events such as: Back-to-school Carnival, Fall Harvest, Trunk-or-treat, Snowfest, Inflate-a-thon, Move in the Park, etc.
Review: What does the average homeowner get for financially supporting the tax?
Daniels: They get free community events, low-cost programs, youth and adult employment, safe clean facilities and parks that help maintain an active lifestyle.
Review: How much of the recreation budget depends on the tax?
Daniels: 100% of the recreation budget is dependent on the millage renewal.
Review: What will happen in if the tax is rejected? Will any of the programs continue without this funding?
Daniels: The recreation will not be able to operate without the millage. We will not be able to provide any of the events or programs listed.
Review: How are the funds used for this program?
Daniels: The funds are used to maintain the parks, community center, pool operations, special events, staff salaries, youth sports and senior programs.
Review: Any upgrades in the programs coming up?
Daniels: Yes, we are upgrading our splash pad area at Pulaski Park. Also, ongoing maintenance and replacement of fields and recreation facilities that reflect the need of the city’s population.
Updating of equipment such as park structures, picnic tables, benches and pavilions. Increasing and strengthening of special events and programs.
Review: How does the program benefit our health?
Daniels: It creates green spaces where neighbors can connect and build stronger bonds. It fosters a culture for exercise and active lifestyles for all age groups, and helps with physical and mental health.
Review: Is there a public safety benefit?
Daniels: Accessible parks and recreation centers reduce juvenile crime and promote youth development. It also significantly increases surrounding property values to have parks and recreation areas in the community.
Review: Anything else you would like to say?
Daniels: Remember to vote on August 4th. Let your voices be heard.
Posted July 17, 2026