If you look to our neighbors to the east (Shelby Township) and west (Orion Township and Lake Orion) you will see much more population and more commercial areas. Orion Township’s population is about 38,000 and Shelby Township is about 80,000. Oakland Township’s population is around 20,000 and we do not even have a gas station. We have a record 1,500 acres of Township parkland versus much less in our neighboring townships.
What caused this?
This was caused by dedicated decades-long efforts of some members of the Oakland Township Association, The Oakland Township Planning Commission, The Parks and Recreation Commission and the Oakland Township Board of Trustees, and various township employees including past and current Township Managers and Parks Directors. I’m sure I missed someone in this list and for that I apologize.
Most of these efforts remain unrecognized by the current residents. It was my intention to research and tell these stories. Personal priorities prevent me from devoting the necessary time. Perhaps the Historical Society will take up this project?
Below is a story authored by Dr. Paul Tomboulian about some of the many contributions of his late wife, Alice.
Oakland Township Sentinel 
Thank you Dr. Paul Tomboulian for writing about Alice and the beautiful TH woods. I consider it a privilege to have worked with Alice and the OTA and the Oakland Township Board of Trustees for
many formative and meaningful years. It means so much to witness her legacy.
Carolyn Phelps
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Dr. Paul Tomboulian,
Thank you for the amazing article. The dedication and endless hours that both you and Alice have made on behalf of Oakland Twp and the state of Michigan have made a true difference and will continue to be enjoyed for generations.
Thank you, Craig and Sue Blust
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