Independence and Springfield townships are joining forces to take advantage of a new state grant.
Gov. Jennifer Granholm offers $25,000 grants for Centers for Regional Excellence to encourage municipalities to work together, save money, and be more efficient and effective. Municipalities do not have to match the funds.
“We already do in a lot of ways, especially in the parks and recreation field. We’re always borrowing supplies from other departments, we market together,? said Kelly Hyer, recreation supervisor for Independence Township. ‘We do a lot together with Springfield, Waterford especially.?
The grant would allow Springfield to purchase online registration software ‘Recpro,? which Independence currently uses.
“They would tap into our database and use our same system,? said Hyer. ‘What we would get out of it is the kiosks, which is an interactive computer.?
Both Springfield and Independence would receive two kiosks. They would be located at township libraries and possibly elementary schools.
“If you want to register for a program now, currently you have to download the form and snail mail it, or come in and pick one up,? she said. ‘And a few of our programs, you can call in and use your Visa or MasterCard.?
In two weeks, people will be able to sign up online, noted Hyer.
“Instead of having a flyer rack it can be interactive,? she said.
“It’s all internet based, so it’s updated immediately.?
The kiosk will include all programs available through the townships? parks and recreation programs. Hyer said it will also help promote their department.
“We’re always looking for money, and this is something we will definitely benefit from,? she said. “Our residents will, as well.”