Recreation Advisory Commission (RAC)

What it is...RAC is a commission of 12 community members, jointly appointed by the Board of Education and City Council, to advise both entities about public recreation matters.  RAC's role includes:

1.    Serving as a soundboard of the community, giving input and feedback to staff regarding what programs are offered, what fees are charged, what policies are implemented, and what procedures are used

2.    Raising important issues about all facets of recreation, for consideration by policy makers, the media, and the public

3.    Acting as Rec. & Ed. and Parks & Recreation ambassadors and communicators, being informed on department activities, and representing the departments on various committees and informally in neighborhoods, at work, and in community organizations

Some history...RAC began as the Citizens' Recreation Board in 1957 by resolutions of the Ann Arbor City Council and the Ann Arbor Board of Education.  The resolution acknowledged the joint effort of both the City and Schools to see that recreational programs are effectively carried on to meet the public recreation needs of the entire community.  The resolution was the result of the work of a large community-based committee representing 70 community agencies named the Citizens' Committee on Public Recreation.  They recommended the development of a broad recreation program, jointly sponsored by the City Council and the Board of Education.

Meetings...RAC generally meets four times each year at 7:00 p.m. at the Rec&Ed offices, 1515 S. Seventh St., Ann Arbor, MI  48103, inside Pioneer High School.  Meetings are open to the public, and provide an opportunity for public commentary.  The Commission usually does not meet in July and August.  If you plan to attend a meeting, please call 734-994-2300 ext. 53102 to confirm the date and time.

Membership...Six members are appointed by the Board of Education and six members are appointed by City Council.  Commissioners' terms are for 3 years, renewable once.

Current Members are:

Chairperson Tom George, Vice-Chairperson Joseph Erhardt, PAC Liaison Tim Berla, Rick Dekeon, Keely Erhardt, Carmen Flesher, Mary Jo Gray, and Jon Strite. 

Contact…For comments, suggestions, concerns, or to apply to serve as a RAC Commissioner, contact Jenna Bacolor via email at rec_advisory@aaps.k12.mi.us or mail to RAC, Rec&Ed, 1515 S. Seventh, Ann Arbor, MI  48103, or phone 994-2300, ext. 53101.