I have witnessed firsthand how the low wages and hour limits imposed on seasonal employees of city parks in Rochester Hills, MI, hinder their ability to attain financial independence. The current wages and limits on working hours make it nearly impossible for anyone to afford the cost of living without substantial assistance or another job. As such, the city's  "competitive" wage is not enough.

This situation is not unique to me. Many other seasonal workers find themselves in this same distressing position. Despite the importance of our roles in maintaining and improving the city parks—spaces vital for community cohesion, outdoor activities, and our collective well-being—the financial compensation remains inadequate.

Furthermore, the city's recent Resident Survey found that 93% of residents were satisfied with the parks, trails, and green spaces around the city. Additionally, 73% of residents find the continued maintenance of these spaces important. Residents also said city employees interacted professionally in 93% of instances. Residents also called for more maintenance of these spaces in various categories, some of which would be the responsibility of seasonal park employees. 

Finally, the city recently unveiled a plan to invest 27 million dollars into 4 parks around the city: Brooklands, Nowicki, Bloomer, and Spencer. This plan will require more labor out of our seasonal park employees and may also require additional staffing over the current levels. However, the city has not outlined any indication of increasing pay and/or benefits for these crucial workers in this plan. The mayor stated, “My goal is that, in the next four years, Rochester Hills will have the greatest park system, not in Oakland County, not in Michigan, not in the Midwest, but when you think of premier parks in the United States of America, Rochester Hills will be one of the top communities you talk about.” However, with a park system that has according to the mayor “this year (2023), we are already over 900,000 guests, with projections suggesting we may set a new record and reach 1.4 million visits,” how can we invest so heavily in our parks and have so many visitors but not invest in our workers that keep our parks looking so great?

Signing this petition will send a powerful message to the city of Rochester Hills to reconsider the wage structure for seasonal employees in our city parks. We do not simply ask for a wage increase alone but also for additional benefits for seasonal employees who return year after year, ensuring a smooth transition from season to season. Help us make a difference today by signing this petition and supporting our cause.