January 2024 Around Town e-Newsletter

AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER

JANUARY 2024

Stay Connected

IN THIS ISSUE

INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

LATEST NEWS

Sign up for customized messaging at bhamgov.org/enews.

EMERGENCY ALERTS

Register for emergency alerts at www.nixle.com or text 48009 to 888777.

WINTER ACTIVITIES

VIRTUALLY EXPLORE BIRMINGHAM

Enjoy our 3D virtual tour at birmingham.skywayvr.com.

SOCIAL MEDIA

AGING IN PLACE SURVEY

facebook.com/BhamGov @bhamgov Please forward this newsletter to your family and friends.

NEW BUSINESS

JANUARY 2024

AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER

CITY OFFICES CITY HALL - 151 MARTIN STREET City Hall is open to the public during regular

business

hours,

Monday

through Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

The

Police

Department

lobby

entrance on the east side of City Hall on Pierce Street continues to operate as the point of contact for all off-hour requests.

MEETINGS City Commission boards

meet

and

in-person,

other

city

and

most

have a virtual option available to the

SUBMIT CONCERNS WITH GOVALERT

Submit non-emergency concerns directly to the City

public. For meetings that occur after

of

hours, visitors can access City Hall

Simply download the free app and follow the user-

through the Police Department lobby

friendly prompts. Follow this link for a short video

entrance on Pierce Street. Learn how

with step-by-step instructions. Don't want to use the

to participate in virtual meetings at

app?

www.bhamgov.org/participate.

bhamgov.org/citizenrequests.

You

Birmingham

That's

using

OK!

the

GovAlert

Submit

your

Mobile

request

app.

at

may also watch many city meetings on your local cable access channel and by web streaming on the city's Vimeo channel.

CONTACT US Visit www.bhamgov.org/contacts

In observance of New Year’s Day, city offices will be closed to

view a list of department contact numbers for services needed.

HOLIDAY CLOSURES & REFUSE COLLECTION DELAY on Monday, January 1. City offices will be closed on Monday, January 15 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. As always, the police and fire departments will remain on duty to ensure the community’s safety.

Refuse collection will be delayed one day during the week of January 1. Please bring all containers to the curb by 7 a.m. the morning after your normal pickup day.

CITY MANAGER REPORT Looking for the inside scoop at City Hall? Download the City Manager's Report prepared for the City Commission each month. Birmingham City Manager Jana Ecker provides the latest updates from city departments and a sneak peek at upcoming events, staffing changes, developments and more.

JANUARY 2024

AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER

JOIN US FOR LONG RANGE PLANNING SATURDAY, JANUARY 20, 2024, 8:30 A.M.

Please join us on Saturday, January 20 at 8:30 a.m. for the City's 2024 Long Range Planning meeting. This meeting is open to the public (attend in person or via Zoom) and designed to give City leaders and residents an overview of financial projections for short-term and long-term projects across Birmingham, and discuss a framework for project planning over the next five years.

Learn

how

to

participate

at

www.bhamgov.org/participate.

Download City Commission meeting agendas and notices at www.bhamgov.org/commissionagendas.

HOLIDAY TREE COLLECTION Holiday trees are being collected through January 31. A separate service is used for disposal of holiday trees, so collection will not necessarily be at the same time your refuse is picked up. The trees are ground into wood chips for recycling, so please remove all lights, ornaments, stands, etc. If you used a bag to contain the needles while removing the tree from your house, please remove it and dispose of it in your regular garbage. For more information call the Department of Public Services at (248) 530-1700.

JANUARY 2024

AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER

THANK YOU, PIERRE BOUTROS The City of Birmingham is grateful to Commissioner Pierre Boutros for his many years of outstanding leadership and dedication to the City of Birmingham, and for sharing his thoughts and advice about being a City Commissioner.

What did you enjoy most about being a City Commissioner?

I enjoyed working on the various initiatives to ensure Birmingham

strengthens

its

position

as

the

premier

community to live, conduct business, and enjoy a quality of life second to none. A city that is an even more desirable destination for both current and future residents and visitors.

When

reflecting

upon

your

many

years

as

a

City

Commissioner, what achievements are you most proud of?

There are many accomplishments during my time as a City Commissioner but the few that that stand out are: finding a new home for Birmingham NEXT, the reconstruction of Old Woodward, the passage of the $12MM Parks and Recreation Bond, the expansion of the Baldwin Public Library, and overseeing the creation of the 2040 Master Plan. However, by far the single most important accomplishment was guiding the city through a global pandemic that none of us ever imagined nor will likely see again. We, as a city, a community, as friends, family, and neighbors, we came together to support and help each other overcome. To me there is no greater accomplishment during my time serving the community.

What advice do you have for new City Commissioners?

When dealing with issues, initiatives or difficult decisions, always remember that your fellow commissioners will not necessarily be on the same page. It is critical to understand that debates challenging and opposing positions are the basis for a true democracy. That in the end, and once all opinions are heard, you must support the decision of the majority even if that decision does not align with your own. That is the making of a true city commissioner.

What’s next for you?

There is not really a next but more a continuation of the path I have been following since I immigrated to the United States. To follow my dream of creating a world class business while making sure my Family and Faith are always in the forefront of my thoughts.

JANUARY 2024

AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER

WINTER ACTIVITIES BUNDLE UP AND ENJOY THE OUTDOORS THIS WINTER! Residents and visitors are encouraged to take advantage of all that Birmingham has to offer this winter season. With 26 parks covering 230 acres, there are many options to satisfy every outdoor enthusiast. For park locations and amenities, visit www.bhamgov.org/parks.

VISIT THE PARKS & ROUGE RIVER TRAIL SYSTEM Each of Birmingham’s 26 parks is unique and amenities include play structures, hiking trails, sports fields, tennis courts and more. Nature lovers can access over two miles of beautiful Rouge River trails right here in Birmingham. For the trail map, visit www.bhamgov.org/rougetrails.

SLEDDING AND WINTER SPORTS Bring your sleds and enthusiasm for some fast-paced fun on the hills! When the snow flies, sledding is offered at Lincoln Hills Golf Course (4" of snow minimum), Booth Park and the Birmingham Museum.

Lincoln Hills Golf Course is also a great location for cross-country

skiing

and

snowshoeing.

Rental

equipment is not provided, but visitors are welcome to bring their own skis and snowshoes and enjoy the peaceful, yet challenging course. Please call Lincoln Hills at (248) 530-1670 before visiting.

OUTDOOR ICE SKATING Once temperatures are consistently cold enough, the outdoor ice rink at Barnum Park will be available (weather permitting). City crews work hard to maintain the rink, however users are welcome to shovel any snow accumulation to clear an area for skating. Keep an

eye

regarding

on

future an

communications

official

opening

from

date.

the

For

city more

information on outdoor skating at Barnum Park, visit www.bhamgov.org/outdoorskating.

JANUARY 2024

AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER

UNDERSTANDING THE SNOW ORDINANACE Take measures to ensure you don't find yourself in violation of the ordinance regarding snow removal and snow parking bans. Here are the two most important requirements: 1) You are required to clear snow and ice on sidewalks that abut your property. If the snow stops falling during the day, your sidewalks must be cleared by no more than 12 hours later. If the snow stops falling during the night, all sidewalks must be cleared by 6 p.m. the following day. Sidewalks that are not cleared of snow and ice will be shoveled by the city and the property owner will be fined.

2) When a Snow Emergency is declared, residents must remove their cars from city streets so the snow plows can get through. Cars in violation of this ordinance will be ticketed.

View more information www.bhamgov.org/snowremoval.

about

snow

removal

at

Remember, snow removal equipment is large, loud, and difficult to stop. Pedestrians and vehicles should allow a wide safety area around plows and deicing equipment during winter operations. Avoid darting out in front of snow and ice removal equipment, and make eye contact with the driver before crossing in front of them. Walking or driving too closely in front or behind such equipment can create unsafe conditions. Remember, stay back and stay safe!

SNOW EMERGENCY NOTIFICATIONS When a Snow Emergency is declared, the city will send an eblast (sign up for the city newsletter and alerts at www.bhamgov.org/enews), send a Nixle text and email alert message (register at www.nixle.com), post on social media and update the city's website (www.bhamgov.org). Visit www.bhamgov.org/communications to learn more about these and other communication services.

JANUARY 2024

AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER

SHARE FEEDBACK TO HELP IMPROVE HEALTH & WELLNESS OF OLDER ADULTS AGING IN PLACE SURVEY The City’s Ad Hoc Aging in Place Committee completed an Aging in Place Community Survey for residents of all ages. The survey is available in print form as well as online at engage.bhamgov.org/aginginplace.

In an effort to reach as many residents as possible, the City will mail a print copy of the Community Survey in every resident’s water bill. Respondents may complete the survey in print form and mail it back to the City or drop it off at City Hall, the Baldwin Public Library, The Birmingham Museum or Next.

Printed

copies

of

the

Community

Survey are also available at all of these locations.

JOIN US FEB. 28 AND SHARE FEEDBACK ON AGING IN PLACE On Wednesday, February 28, 2024, the Ad Hoc Aging in Place Committee will hold their regular meeting at 1:00 p.m. at Next (2121 Midvale Street) to receive public input from residents as it relates to aging in place. The committee welcomes anyone who wishes to have input into developing a citywide Aging in Place Action Plan to attend and be heard.

SENIOR SERVICES Did you know seniors enjoy a variety of services all throughout the Birmingham community?

From special events and activities to exclusive discounts and assistance, seniors have many special opportunities in Birmingham. Learn more at www.bhamgov.org/seniorservices.

JANUARY 2024

AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER

FAMILY PREPAREDNESS WORKBOOK Did you know that the Birmingham Fire Department offers a Family Preparedness Workbook that can help residents prepare for multiple types of emergencies? This workbook is provided free of charge on the city’s website and has helpful information for natural and human caused disasters including: tornados, flooding, public health emergencies, hazardous materials, terrorism and more.

The workbook provides guides for creating your own first aid kit, emergency supply checklists, reminders for maintaining important family documents and more. There are links to additional information that will help families better prepare for various emergency situations.

Unfortunately, if a large-scale emergency or disaster were to take place, emergency services can easily become overcome with the demand for resources. Taking the time to read through this workbook can make a big difference in your preparation for a disaster that will help keep your family and friends safe.

More information can be found on the City’s website.

JANUARY 2024

AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER

STAY SAFE ON THE ROADS THIS WINTER WINTER DRIVING TIPS Winter driving requires extra caution and preparation to navigate the challenges posed by cold weather, snow and icy conditions. To ensure safety on the road during the winter months, it is crucial to follow several key tips. First and foremost, drivers should slow down and maintain a safe following distance, as slippery roads can increase stopping distances.

Keeping a well-maintained vehicle is essential, including checking tires, brakes, and battery. Using winter tires can provide better traction on icy surfaces. Additionally, maintaining a full tank of gas and carrying an emergency kit with essentials such as blankets, flashlight, and nonperishable food can be crucial in case of unexpected delays or emergencies. Clearing snow and ice from all vehicle surfaces, including windows, lights, and mirrors will aid visibility. Finally, staying informed about weather conditions, road closures, and adjusting travel plans accordingly is vital for a safe and stress-free winter driving experience.

BIRMINGHAM GREEN

BY NICHOLAS J. DUPUIS, PLANNING DIRECTOR This is probably coming a few months too late, but there might yet be some time to inspire, even if it is only in the better understanding and enjoyment of spaces that may not be your own.

These spaces may look dead, messy, or lazy, but they provide environmental functions that are so important that beauty might be found by simply looking at them a different way. These spaces are gardens, and specifically gardens that are left uncut, unpruned, and otherwise undisturbed over the winter. Dead plant stems, leaf litter, tree bark, and more of the “leftovers” provide critical habitats for overwintering bees, bugs, butterflies, and birds. The connection can extend even further to human beings in some of the same ways that gardens do the rest of the year, if you let it be so. Some gardens are designed to have an interesting winter show with different colors and textures. Many birds still visit looking for food and shelter, providing exciting activity. Even snow can offer a unique contrast as it rests on dead flower heads, seed pods, berries and branches. As I ask you to consider this approach, I recall a phrase - to appreciate the beauty of a snowflake, it is necessary to stand out in the cold.

JANUARY 2024

AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER

NEWS FROM THE MUSEUM

BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM UNDERGROUND RAILROAD PROJECT RECEIVES ADDITIONAL FUNDING FOR 2024 During 2023, the Birmingham Museum was busy heading up a research project to study the Underground Railroad history of southern Oakland County in collaboration with local historians in Farmington, Pontiac, Royal Oak and Southfield. The project, funded in part by Michigan Humanities, will create a traveling exhibit and interactive web map for use by schools, libraries and other public institutions throughout the county based on documented evidence of freedom seekers and abolitionists in our area.

The project was due to conclude at the end of 2023, however, due to the project’s success, the museum applied for additional funding from Michigan Humanities to extend the project another year, and to include more of Oakland County. An additional $10,000 has been granted to the museum for 2024 to also produce classroom-ready lesson plans and a student reference book for educators countywide.

Project partners include the Friends of the Birmingham Museum (aka the Birmingham Historical Society), Oakland Schools, and historical society volunteers throughout Oakland County. For more information on the project or our local Black history, contact the Birmingham Museum at (248) 530-1928 or see the virtual exhibit at bhamgov.org/undergroundrailroad.

John Sella Martin escaped enslavement and came to rural Southfield via the UGRR before becoming a renowned minister and political activist. (Library of Congress, Lincoln Papers Collection)

MAKE A DIFFERENCE ON A BOARD OR COMMITTEE The new year is a great time to look for ways to make a difference in your community. Join a board or committee to have a direct impact on the city!

Visit www.bhamgov.org/boardopportunities to current or upcoming vacant positions.

view City of Birmingham boards and committees with

JANUARY 2024

AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER

NEWS FROM THE ICE SPORTS ARENA NEW SESSION OF SKATING CLASSES BEGINS JANUARY 15 The Birmingham Ice Sports Arena offers Learn to Skate programs for ages three and up.

Session Three classes begin January 15! Registration continues online; please visit https:/ /play.bhamgov.org/ to enroll in classes.

Birmingham’s Learn to Skate program includes offerings for children and adults every day of the week at various times of the day, and skate rental is available.

OPEN SKATE SCHEDULE Enjoy open skate this month! The ice arena is closed January 1, but offers many open skate sessions throughout the week. See the regular open skate schedule at www.bhamgov.org/openskate.

PARTIES AT BIRMINGHAM ICE ARENA Book our studio ice arena for your winter birthday party or special occasion! Our party package costs $300 for residents and $350 for non-residents. The party package includes one hour of studio ice time, one hour in the studio party room, skate rental and skate personnel. Parties are held Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings starting at 5:30 p.m. Learn more at www.bhamgov.org/icearena or email cfolk@bhamgov.org.

The Ice Sports Arena is located at 2300 East Lincoln. For questions about programs, contact Connie Folk at (248) 530-1642 or cfolk@bhamgov.org.

JANUARY 2024

AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SERVICES UPDATES CITY COMMISSION ADOPTS 2024-2028 PARKS MASTER PLAN The City Commission voted unanimously to adopt Birmingham’s 2024-2028 Parks and Recreation Master Plan following a public hearing at the December 18 commission meeting. The plan represents months of hard work and input from hundreds of citizens, and will guide Birmingham's acquisition and development of community recreation facilities and programs for the next five years. The final plan, available soon at www.bhamgov.org/parksmasterplan, will be submitted to Oakland County, the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) for approval. Once approved, the plan will be filed with the MDNR and Birmingham will be eligible to apply for grants through the State of Michigan.

Thank you to the many people who contributed their ideas and feedback to this vital document. We look forward to your continued involvement to create vibrant public spaces and programs for the future.

ATTEND JANUARY 9 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING Learn and ask questions about the adoption of the recently approved 2024-2028 Parks and Recreation Master Plan at the Parks and Recreation Board meeting on Tuesday, January 9 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Department of Public Services, located at 851 South Eton. Topics on the agenda include: Chair and Vice Chair nominations Adoption of the 2024-2028 Parks and Recreation Master Plan Attend in person at the Department of Public Service (park inside the gate and use the side entrance), or learn how to participate via Zoom at www.bhamgov.org/participate.

JANUARY 2024

AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER

JANUARY NEWS FROM THE BALDWIN PUBLIC LIBRARY COOL WINTER PROGRAMS! Kick off the new year with some fun at BPL! Computer classes, Book Clubs, and Story times are all happening in January, along with another look at local history with the Birmingham museum, a chance for kids and teens to participate in advisory boards, and more parenting strategies. Find all of this and more at Baldwinlib.org/calendar.

WINTER READING CHALLENGE Readers of all ages are invited to take part in our Winter Reading Challenge for the chance to win a giveaway! Complete and submit your challenge through January 31, 2024 at baldwinlib.beanstack.org.

PHASE 3 CONSTRUCTION Follow our Phase 3 construction progress at baldwinlib.org/renovation, or via library social media feeds.

Baldwin Public Library is located at 300 W. Merrill Street in Birmingham. For more information visit www.baldwinlib.org or call (248) 647-1700. The Library is closed Monday, January 1 in observance of New Year's Day and Monday, January 15 in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

JANUARY 2024

AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER

HAPPY NEW YEAR! There is no better time to connect with Next – and your community!

We are excited to present a week of possibilities – from January 22 through January 26 – many of our most popular offerings will be complimentary for members, and future members alike. This is your chance to try that class you have been thinking about, play a new game, learn a new skill and enjoy the fellowship of others.

There are special offerings and promotions all week long!

Please visit the Next website to see a full calendar of activities at www.BirminghamNext.org.

Next proudly serves the growing 50 plus population in our community. Next is located at 2121 Midvale Street in Birmingham. Contact Next at (248) 203-5270, visit www.BirminghamNext.org or like Next on Facebook.

AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER

JANUARY 2024

WHAT’S NEW

Ringing in the new year with a brand new community event and new business.

BRRmingham Blast DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM SATURDAY, JANUARY 27 10 A.M. - 6 P.M. Zip to downtown Birmingham on Saturday, January 27 for a brand new event – the BRRmingham Blast! This free outdoor event will take place along S. Old Woodward Ave. from Maple to Brown, and will feature a zip line, food trucks, marshmallow roasting and more. Retailers will be open and many will be offering post-holiday sales! Visit our Event Calendar for details, coming soon.

GREENE & CO

574 NORTH OLD WOODWARD AVENUE (UPSTAIRS) Greene & Co specializes in bespoke interior design for workspaces, living spaces, and meaningful spaces in between.

Authentically focused on holistic wellness, engaging experiences, and how place impacts the way we feel and our ability to thrive. Together with their clients, Greene & Co clients creates award-winning designs that inspire people to design their best lives.

Find out more at https://www.greeneandco.online.

Photos courtesy of Greene & Co Instagram.

As always, parking is convenient and free for the first two hours in all five municipal structures downtown. For more information, visit www.ALLINBirmingham.com, follow us on Facebook and Instagram and subscribe to Birmingham Shopping District enews.

AROUND TOWN E-NEWSLETTER

Connect With Us DIRECT EMAIL, NOTIFICATIONS, FORMS AND PUBLIC SAFETY ALERTS City Communications Constant Contact (subscribe to receive emails about topics of interest) Webpage e-Notify (receive an email or text when agendas and minutes have been posted) Nixle Public Alert System (alerts from the Police & Fire Departments) City Forms & Payments Crimedar SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook City of Birmingham

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Photo Credit:Chris Cook Instagram: @jchriscook