AROUND TOWN Monthly e-Newsletter August 2021
STAY CONNECTED INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD Join the Citywide Email List at www.bhamgov.org/citywideemail CUSTOM UPDATES FOR YOUR TOPICS OF INTEREST Select topics of interest at bit.ly/bhamnews
IN THIS ISSUE
LATEST NEWS
EMERGENCY ALERTS For emergency alerts directly from the Birmingham Police and Fire departments through Nixle, register at www.nixle.com or simply text "48009" to "888777" SOCIAL MEDIA Follow us for the latest news from the City of Birmingham!
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
RESIDENTS MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Please forward this e-newsletter to your family and friends!
AUGUST 2021
AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER
LATEST NEWS SHARE YOUR IDEAS ON ENGAGE BIRMINGHAM Visit Birmingham's public engagement platform, Engage Birmingham, to share your feedback on year-round outdoor dining, public art, South Old Woodward reconstruction, reformatted Public Notice Signs and more. Register at engage.bhamgov.org and share your feedback today!
MEET THE STAFF SEAN KAMMER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, BIRMINGHAM SHOPPING DISTRICT Meet the Birmingham Shopping District's new Executive Director, Sean Kammer. Sean joined us in May and is looking forward to serving the shopping district. Welcome, Sean!
NEWS FROM THE CLERK'S OFFICE GENERAL ELECTION PREPARATION The Clerk's office has begun preparing for the general election on November 2, 2021. The Clerk’s office will send confirmation letters to past election inspectors in August, recruit additional workers in September, and train all election inspectors in October in preparation for the election. Now is a great time to confirm your voter registration at mi.gov/vote. Voters wishing to vote absentee should make sure they are on the permanent absentee voter list and that your correct mailing address is on file. When returning applications, be sure to include phone and email contact information so that if any issue pops up we can reach you quickly to resolve it. The initial mailing of absentee ballot applications for the November election is planned to go out late August. For more updates and information on the November 2, 2021 election visit bhamgov.org/voting.
AUGUST 2021
AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER
Flooding Investigation & Debris Collection Underway FLOODING INVESTIGATION
City officials are collecting data and tracking flooding that took place during the storm on
Saturday, July 24. If you experienced water in your
basement, please email flooding@bhamgov.org and include your name, address, where you observed
water coming in, and contact information. The city is working with the Oakland County Water Resources
Commissioner's office and will provide an update to the City Commission on Monday, August 9.
FLOODING DEBRIS COLLECTION
Residents who experienced flooded basements during the recent storms may now place all flooding debris at the curb for collection by Car Trucking, the City's refuse contractor. We appreciate your patience as crews make their way through the city to collect both regular refuse and flood debris. As always, the city collects mattresses, furniture, appliances, doors, and carpeting (rolled, no longer than 4' long and tied). Per the direction of City Manager Tom Markus, building or construction material such as wood, drywall, etc. will now also be accepted to assist the community following this significant rain event. If you are using a restoration company, let them know they should provide disposal of the material.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Learn more with frequently asked questions pertaining to flooded basements and the city's sewer system at www.bhamgov.org/riskmanagement.
CITY OFFICES & MEETINGS UPDATES CITY OFFICES
The City Hall lobby remains accessible to the public through the Martin Street entrance on the
north side of City Hall during regular business hours, Monday - Friday from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Those who are not fully vaccinated should continue to wear a mask while in the building. Main
floor services including the Clerk’s and Treasurer's offices are accessible. Necessary in-person
meetings between City Hall employees and the public will take place at a designated location on the main floor of City Hall. Please note that social distancing of six feet should be maintained
during all in-person meetings. The Police Department lobby entrance on the east side of City Hall on Pierce Street continue to operate as the point of contact for all off-hour requests. Visit
www.bhamgov.org/contacts to view a list of department contact numbers for services needed.
CITY MEETINGS
City Commission and other City boards meet in-person with a virtual option available to the
public. The virtual option is provided to help reduce the volume of people inside meeting rooms at any given time. Individuals who would like to attend meetings in person can access City Hall
from the Martin Street entrance during normal business hours, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For meetings
that occur after hours, visitors can access City Hall through the Police Department lobby entrance on Pierce Street. Individuals who are not fully vaccinated should continue to wear a mask during meetings and while in City Hall. Members of the public who prefer to attend meetings virtually
may learn how to participate at www.bhamgov.org/participate. You may also watch many City
meetings on your local cable access channel and by web streaming on the City's Vimeo channel.
AUGUST 2021
AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER
SOUTH OLD WOODWARD RECONSTRUCTION PROJECT BIRMINGHAM TO HOLD PUBLIC INFORMATION SESSION AUG. 3 The Birmingham community will have an opportunity to learn and ask questions about the 2022 South Old Woodward Reconstruction Phase 3 project during a public information
session set for Tuesday, August 3 from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. in the lower level of the Baldwin Public Library at 300 West Merrill Street. The project will span South Old Woodward between Brown and Landon. It is a continuation of the work completed in 2018 on other areas along Old Woodward, and in 2020 on Maple.
Those who attend the public information session will have an opportunity to review project renderings and plans, and discuss the project with city engineers and consultants from MKSK.
The reconstruction project will result in new underground infrastructure and new streetscape
between Brown and Landon. Similar to the award winning 2018 Old Woodward Reconstruction Project and 2020 Maple Road Reconstruction projects, design features will include:
Curb bumpouts at each intersection to improve crosswalks for pedestrians. Mid-block crosswalks, raised planter beds and landscape features will also be added.
Enhancements such as: exposed aggregate concrete, granite bench seating areas, new street lights, and cell phone charging stations.
Improved on-street accessible parking spaces, each served with an individual sidewalk ramp to improve conditions for those needing accommodations.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to sign up for the South Old Woodward
Reconstruction Phase 3 Constant Contact group at bit.ly/bhamnews to receive updates
throughout the project. The city’s public engagement platform, Engage Birmingham, offers the community an opportunity to share feedback about their experiences as a pedestrian and driver on the previous phases of the project. Download frequently asked questions
regarding the project at bit.ly/oldwoodwardphase3faq. More information about the project can also be found at www.bhamgov.org/oldwoodwardphase3.
AUGUST 2021
AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER
PARKS & REC BOND PROJECT UPDATE PARKS & RECREATION BOARD MEETING Learn and ask questions about Parks and Recreation Bond projects at the Parks and Recreation Board meeting on Tuesday, August 10 at 6:30 p.m. Topics on the agenda include: Fire Station #2 Open Space and Naming Recommendations, Adams Park Concept Plan Update and Ice Arena Renovation/Addition Project Update. Attend in person or learn how to participate via Zoom at www.bhamgov.org/participate. Find more information about Parks & Recreation bond projects at www.bhamgov.org/parksbond.
PARKS & RECREATION BOND PROJECT UPDATES ON ENGAGE BIRMINGHAM Progress continues on the Birmingham Ice Arena Renovation/Addition Project. The arena, utilized by more than 6,000 people each year, will benefit from the following upgrades: locker room expansion and remodel of the existing locker rooms, adding an additional locker room and dedicated team locker room, a new observation area and meeting room space, and new concession area upgrades. The latest information regarding the Birmingham Ice Arena/Renovation project can be found on the City’s new public engagement platform, Engage Birmingham. Visit engage.bhamgov.org to view the July dashboard report featuring before and after photos, project highlights, work completed in July and work scheduled for August.
AUGUST 2021
AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER
PICKLEBALL COURT UPDATE The Birmingham Parks and Recreation Board, through its Capital Projects Sub-Committee and City Staff, is evaluating potential locations for Pickleball Courts. Last fall, Birmingham voters approved a Parks and Recreation Bond, which provides for the possibility of adding Pickleball Courts to our park system. The City surveyed the public for input on Engage Birmingham, engage.bhamgov.org, presenting five potential locations: the North East Corner of Lincoln Street and Eton Street (part of Kenning Park), Crestview Park, St. James Park, Poppleton Park and West Lincoln Well Park. City administration is working with a consultant on feasibility design for each of the five potential locations. This includes site evaluations and complete review of proposed sites. This information, when available, will be shared with the Parks and Recreation Board and on Engage Birmingham - as Pickleball 2.0!Keep an eye on the Parks and Recreation Board meeting agendas and Engage Birmingham for updates and more public input opportunities on this exciting park project!
AUGUST 2021
AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER
SUMMER PROPERTY TAX REMINDERS A MESSAGE FROM THE FINANCE DEPARTMENT Summer property taxes are due without penalty on August 31. Payments must be received by the City by August 31 in order to avoid penalty, so please plan ahead. The City does not accept postmark dates or other proofs of payments such as online banking transaction dates. When using online banking, please make sure you are using the correct address on the top of the bill. Also, make sure that the transaction will actually be a next-day ACH transaction. Some banks will send a check rather than an electronic transaction, which will delay posting of your payment. If you are unsure, please contact your bank. You will find a lot of valuable information on your property tax bill. Please take time to read the front and back of your bill. Many of the questions you may have can be answered by reading this content.
PAYMENT OPTIONS
The City provides many options for paying your tax bill. These options, along with instructions, are listed on the back of your tax bill. You may pay by mail, online, at the Treasurer's Office, or use one of the two drop boxes located at City Hall. A payment drop box is located on the south side of City Hall near the back entrance. There is also a drive-up drop box located at the Henrietta entrance to the back lot behind City Hall.
PET ETIQUETTE AND ORDINANCE REMINDERS CITY CLERK'S OFFICE Complying with ordinances pertaining to pet care and safety is extremely important for the protection of our entire community. The city has several pet regulations designed to keep pets and people safe. Please review the following reminders: All dogs must be on a chain or leash and under reasonable control of some person at all times. A dog cannot go beyond the premises of its owner unless restrained by a chain or leash and under reasonable control. All dogs and cats four months old or over must have a license. All dogs and cats shall be immunized against rabies, prior to issuance of a license. Licenses are issued by the City Clerk's Office at City Hall. Owners cannot allow animals to deposit fecal matter in any place other than the premises where the animal is harbored or kept, unless it is immediately collected and removed. If a person is walking an animal on property they do not own, whether public or private, they must have an appropriate device for the collection of fecal matter in their immediate possession and an appropriate depository for the transmission of fecal matter to the premises where the animal is harbored or kept. No person shall harbor or keep any dog which, by loud or frequent or habitual barking, yelping or howling, causes a serious annoyance to the neighborhood, or to people passing on the street. Also, please remember dog waste should be collected with a bag and disposed of in your garbage container, not your yard waste bin. If you have questions regarding the Animal Ordinance you may call the Police Department at 248.530.1889 or the City Clerk's office at (248) 530-1880.
AUGUST 2021
AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER
ORDINANCE REMINDERS KEEP SIDEWALKS CLEAR OF GROWTH During the summer months it is important to ensure sidewalks are not blocked by plants, shrubs, trees, etc. Per City code, no privately owned tree, shrub or plant may encroach upon, under or over any sidewalk in a manner to interfere with the free passage of persons using such sidewalk. City code prohibits planting trees, shrubs or other plants in the city rights-of-way, parks or public areas without approval of the staff Arborist. When planting something close to the sidewalk, think about the width of the plant at maturity. If you have plants that are encroaching upon the sidewalk, please cut them back. Those in violation of this ordinance after receiving a notice and citation will have their sidewalk cleared and pay for the service. Access the entire ordinance pertaining to vegetation and maintenance of trees and plants on public property (Chapter 118, Section 118-19) at bit.ly/bhamtreecode. Thank you for helping to keep our sidewalks clear! For more information, call Code Assistance at (248) 530-1859.
KEEP GRASS & WEEDS BELOW EIGHT INCHES To ensure our city looks well-maintained, the City's ordinance
requires grass and weeds to be kept below eight inches high.
Poison ivy, ragweed or any other poisonous, noxious or unhealthy growths are prohibited. Those in violation of this ordinance will
have their lawn mowed and will be required to pay for the service.
Access the entire Grass and Noxious Weed ordinance (Sec. 11866)
on
the
City's
website.
For
more
information,
Department of Public Services at (248) 530-1700.
call
the
AUGUST 2021
AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER
NEWS FROM THE LIBRARY AUGUST NEWS AND EVENTS!
Enjoy exciting programs all month long, including one more
Interactive Story Book Trail session on August 4, Foodscaping
with Brie Arthur on August 9, Animals Tales Story Time on August
14 and “Detroit’s Lost Poletown” on August 16. For the full calendar of events, visit baldwinlib.org/calendar.
JOIN OUR BOOK CLUBS! Enjoy lively discussions with readers each month at one of our Book Clubs. There are 13 to choose from, covering a variety of
ages and genres. Find out more at baldwinlib.org/book-clubs/.
LIBRARIAN RECOMMENDED READS Miss getting reading suggestions from your BPL librarians? Complete the information on the form at
baldwinlib.org/bookpicks and we will email you personalized recommendations.
The Baldwin Public Library is located at 300 W. Merrill Street in Birmingham. For more information visit www.baldwinlib.org or call (248) 647-1700.
NEWS FROM THE MUSEUM AUGUST PORCH POP UPS THEME: TRANSPORTATION In August our free Friday Porch Pop Up exhibits will focus around the theme of transportation. Each week we will have new artifacts, photos and documents telling a different Birmingham story from 1-4pm.
August 6: The “Walk on the Water”. Learn how this early steamship on Lake Erie revolutionized immigration to the Michigan Territory and Birmingham specifically. August 13: Quarton Lake/Mill Pond. Quarton Lake wasn’t always just a recreational spot, early settlers used it to produce all important products like lumber and flour. Join us to find out more! August 20: Woodward and the history of the Dream Cruise Aug. 27: The Detroit United Railway Line. Before car traffic dominated Woodward, this railway provided jobs and connected residents to the rest of the metro area. Contact museum staff at 248-530-1928 or museum@bhamgov.org for more information or for help with your questions. To see what we’ve been up to, check us out on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Youtube!
AUGUST 2021
AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER
NEWS FROM NEXT GET READY TO CONNECT WITH NEXT: A SPECIAL WEEK FOR NEXT MEMBERS AND THEIR FRIENDS! August 16 through August 20 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. We are excited to present a week of possibilities — no fees all week long, so trying different fitness classes is not a problem. We will also feature
many other complimentary events including a
performance by the Lexington Bach Festival String Quartet, a Healthy Heart presentation, the newly
released Tesla movie, an evening lecture on Boom Town: Detroit in the Roaring 20s, a Jewelry, Book
and Puzzle Sale and a special picnic to wrap up a memorable week!
Did we mention that everything is complimentary? It will be a week to remember so please introduce your friends and family to Next and if they join, they will receive $10 off the Next membership price and you will receive a $10 referral fee. This is a great opportunity to try new something new! The week to remember is August 16 through August 20 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. For more information on this and all that Next has to offer, visit www.birminghamnext.org or call 248-203-5270. Next is located at 2121 Midvale Street in Birmingham.
BIRMINGHAM GREEN ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY NICHOLAS J. DUPUIS, CITY PLANNER
The heavy rain and flooding events experienced in Southeast Michigan during the last few weeks are becoming more and more regular as the climate continues to change. As cities begin to realize that they are particularly sensitive to climate change, an about-face is occurring in terms
of the approach to urban storm water management in urbanized areas. The standard design
approaches to control storm water have involved the expeditious collection and redirection of storm water through centralized and engineered “grey” infrastructure. Although grey storm water
infrastructure does the job it was designed to do, it did not address the environmental trade-offs (water pollution, urban heat island) that were made in favor of grey infrastructure.
In response, cities are beginning to recognize the benefits of integrating sustainable green storm water management practices and policy. Birmingham is in a good position to benefit from green infrastructure strategies, which includes pollutant removal, reduction of impervious surface and the heat island effect, and even beautification. Are you interested in what green infrastructure options could be beneficial to the City moving forward? Let us know by emailing Nick Dupuis at ndupuis@bhamgov.org.
AUGUST 2021
AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
IN THE PARK SUMMER CONCERT SERIES SUMMER CONCERT SERIES RETURNS! EVERY WEDNESDAY AT 7:00 PM, SHAIN PARK Downtown Birmingham will once again come alive with the sound of music, during the In the Park Summer Concert series Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m in Shain Park. During this safe, fun and substance-free event series, visitors will enjoy the vibrant outdoor atmosphere and beautiful park setting while listening to performances from local bands playing a wide variety of music genres. Concerts will be held on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 p.m. through September 8. The line-up is as follows: August 4 – Major Dudes (Tribute to Steely Dan) August 11 – Alan Turner (Country) August 18 – Jill Jack (Folk) August 25 – Ben Sharkey (Pop) September 1 – Sun Messengers (R&B Showband) September 8 – “The Byron Legacy Show” Bringing Vegas to You, Starring Byron Cancelmo Shain Park is located at Merrill Street and Bates Street. Parking is available at the Chester Street and Pierce Street Parking Structures (first two hours free). In the event of inclement weather, please call (248) 530-1650 to check the event status. For more information about the In the Park Summer Concert Series, visit www.bhamgov.org/summerconcerts.
AUGUST 2021
AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER
BIRMINGHAM SHOPPING DISTRICT BIRMINGHAM FARMERS MARKET EVERY SUNDAY THRU OCTOBER 31, 9 A.M. - 2 P.M. Visit Public Parking Lot 6 (660 N. Old Woodward Ave.) every Sunday through October 31, and you will be met with colorful produce and floral displays, the aroma of fresh foods and the bustle of the Birmingham Farmers Market! Visitors of all ages are invited to experience the open, outdoor environment and shop for local produce, plants and flowers, meat and dairy, eggs, artisan goods and so much more! The market proudly offers Michigan-grown produce subject to local growing patterns. By August, shoppers can expect to find apples, berries, cherries, broccoli, lettuces, carrots, root vegetables, peppers, tomatoes and more. Visit www.AllinBirmingham.com/FarmersMarket. Follow us on Facebook @BIRMINGHAMFARMERSMARKET and Instagram @BhamFarmMkt.
AUGUST 2021
AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER
OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHTS FRIDAY, AUGUST 13 It’s show time! The Birmingham Shopping District’s
popular Movie Nights are back at Booth Park this summer! Bring your chairs and a blanket to enjoy a
family-friendly movie under the stars on Friday, August 13! Pre-show entertainment begins at 7:30 p.m.; movie at dusk. As always, Movie Nights are free.
Visit ALLINBirmingham.com/events for details. In the event of inclement weather, Movie Nights will be postponed to the following evening (Saturday). FEATURE PRESENTATION: CARS Follow us on Facebook @BirminghamShoppingDistrict and Instagram @BhamShopping.
BIRMINGHAM CRUISE EVENT SATURDAY, AUGUST 21, 9:00AM - 5:00PM The Woodward Dream Cruise will roll into town on Saturday, August 21, 2021 bringing thousands of
classic cars and people from all over the world. Adding to the festivities, the Birmingham Cruise Event, on South Old Woodward Avenue from Bowers Street to Landon Street, will feature classic cars of all makes and models, sponsor exhibits, food and more.
The Birmingham Cruise Event venues are within walking distance of Birmingham's five parking
structures, where the first two hours are always free. Additionally, metered parking is available throughout downtown. Parking meters are credit card and Parkmobile-enabled, for easy parking. Visit our parking map for structure locations.
Visit ALLINBirmingham.com/cruiseevent for more information. Follow us on Facebook @BirminghamShoppingDistrict and Instagram @BhamShopping.
AUGUST 2021
AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER
GOLF COURSES CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP The annual club championship returns this summer! This two-day, 36-hole event will take place during the first weekend in August at both Springdale and Lincoln Hills Golf Courses. Registered players will play 18-holes at Springdale Golf Course on Saturday, August 7th and 18holes at Lincoln Hills Golf Course on Sunday, August 8th. For more information and to register to play, contact the Lincoln Hills Clubhouse at (248) 530-1670.
FAMILY DAYS THROUGH AUGUST Take advantage of Family Days on Sundays through August! During Family Days, children under 10 play free with a paid adult. Family Days are a great opportunity to take your child out on the course. Tee Times will be 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. and may be reserved by calling the Pro Shop. Each week, Family Days will alternate between golf courses. Learn more at www.golfbirmingham.org.
Photo Credit: Chris Cook Instagram: @jchriscook
AUGUST 2021
AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER
RESIDENTS MAKING A DIFFERENCE
THANK YOU TO LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER CHRIS COOK In honor of World Photography Day in August, we recognize local photographer and Birmingham resident, Chris Cook, for his work for the City of Birmingham and Birmingham Shopping District. Chris' philosophy is simple: "First, there are no un-photogenic people. Second, businesses large and small need their story told through great images. Last, show up on time, solve problems and deliver a great product." Chris goes above and beyond to capture our community and you'll see his beautiful photographs throughout our newsletters, social media and around town. We appreciate all of the work that Chris has done and continues to do to showcase the City's people, landscapes, and businesses. Thank you, Chris! To see more of Chris' work, follow him on Instagram @jchriscook, Facebook @Chris Cook and visit his website at jchriscook.com.
KNOW SOMEONE MAKING A DIFFERENCE? NOMINATE THEM FOR 'RESIDENTS MAKING A DIFFRENCE'! Good deeds happen all the time in Birmingham and we love hearing about small acts of kindness. Help us recognize our amazing residents by nominating a friend, neighbor, family member, or anyone who has made a positive impact in the community. Complete the simple Residents Making a Difference Nomination form today: http://bit.ly/39esCPT! You may also submit your nomination and view previous residents we've recognized on Engage Birmingham.
Photo Credit: Chris Cook Instagram: @jchriscook
AUGUST 2021
AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER
Photo Credit:Joel Ingersoll Instagram: @agl_aerial_photography