City of Birmingham
Around Town E-Newsletter
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October
Around Town
E-Newsletter
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Welcome to the Around Town e-Newsletter from the City of Birmingham. Thank you for your support and please forward this newsletter along to friends and family. |
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Birmingham residents are strongly encouraged to sign up for the citywide email system at www.bhamgov.org/citywideemail. The email service allows the City to target specific neighborhoods for messaging and keep everyone updated on what’s happening in this rapidly changing environment.
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As we continue to engage with the community while following safety guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19, many are wondering about City events and meetings scheduled in October. Please see below for helpful information about the upcoming month.
City Meetings
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Birmingham’s Parks and Recreation Bond Proposal is Heading to the Polls
Birmingham voters may already be casting ballots if participating in early and absentee voting. There is a lot to consider and we want to remind you to flip your ballot over and vote all the way to the end for the Parks and Recreation Bond Proposal. If approved, Birmingham parks and recreation facilities will be in line for a phased investment of $11,250,000 to fund parks and recreation improvements across the community. The bonds could be issued in two phases in 2021 and 2024 as existing bond debt expires. Proposed projects have been outlined in the current Parks and Recreation Master Plan, but we plan to continue to engage the community in finalizing and prioritizing projects as we move forward. Birmingham voters last approved a parks bond nearly twenty years ago, and additional support will help ensure that parks continue to be a key asset in our community. To get complete information on the bond proposal, view frequently asked questions and calculate the impact of the bond on taxes, visit www.bhamgov.org/parksbond.
If you are still in the voting research phase, plan to join the Parks and Recreation Board meeting on October 6 at 6:30 p.m. for a Q&A session on the bond proposal. We are asking that interested residents submit questions in advance by emailing parksbond@bhamgov.org. We’ll go through the emailed questions first and follow with a brief session for live questions. Please submit your questions by Friday, October 2 at 4 p.m. The meeting agenda and instructions for attending virtually will also be posted to the City's website at www.bhamgov.org/parksboard.
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Share your Ideas for Birmingham’s Citywide Master Plan
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Your opinion matters—which is why you’re invited to the upcoming Planning Board meeting on October 14, 2020 at 7:30 p.m. to discuss the Citywide Master Plan. The Citywide Master Plan will guide Birmingham’s future for the next twenty years, so sharing your feedback is key for the future of our community. The Planning Board will review findings and recommendations suggested for Birmingham’s proposed Haynes Square, the South Woodward Gateway and the Rail District. Another way to engage with the Citywide Master Plan process is by submitting your comments on proposed neighborhood plans.
Download the first draft of the Master Plan and the Master Plan Review Process at www.thebirminghamplan.com. The site includes relevant data, surveys, documents and an email communication option that allows residents to send comments directly to the planning team. Learn how to participate in upcoming meetings at www.bhamgov.org/participate.
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October Events Update
Fire Prevention Week - The Fire Department's Open House event is canceled due to safety concerns surrounding COVID-19. Keep an eye out for a video series on the City Government of Birmingham, MI Facebook page during Fire Prevention Week beginning October 4th.
Halloween - The City received inquires regarding whether or not Halloween will take place this year. Halloween is not a City sanctioned event, but rather a nationally recognized holiday. If you prefer that trick-or-treaters do not approach your home, the City recommends turning your porch light off. Those who do participate in Halloween are encouraged to follow safety guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Safety Reminders
The City reminds you to take the actions listed below to protect yourself and your loved ones.
- Wear a mask in indoor public spaces.
- Wear a mask in outdoor crowded spaces where you cannot maintain social distancing.
- Wash your hands often and take advantage of hand sanitizer stations in place throughout the downtown area, City parks and parking structures.
Let's all do our part to prevent an increase in COVID-19 cases.
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City Services
The City Clerk’s Office is open to the public for election business. Residents are required to enter City Hall using the Martin Street entrance. Per the Governor’s Executive Order, masks are required to enter the building. Individuals with limited mobility are encouraged to call 248-530-1880 for assistance with barrier free entry.
City Hall remains closed for other City business. Residents requiring assistance are encouraged to contact any department via phone or email. Visit www.bhamgov.org/contacts to view a list of departmental contact numbers for services needed.
COVID-19 Information
The City's COVID-19 webpage at www.bhamgov.org/virusprevention continues to provide information from trusted resources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the State of Michigan, the Oakland County Health Division and more.
Forms & Payments
Forms and payments may be submitted 24/7 via the drop box located behind City Hall. Documents such as building permit applications and plans can be dropped off or picked up at the Police Department entrance on the east side of the Municipal Building on Pierce Street. As part of the City's operational relief efforts, most City forms, applications and payment submissions are also available at www.bhamgov.org/formsandpayments.
Parking Initiatives
The City is pleased to continue relief efforts to help the community, such as free parking in the City's five municipal garages through December 31, 2020. Take advantage of hand sanitizer stations throughout the City’s parking structures (also throughout the downtown area and in city parks). Enjoy contact-free parking with the ParkMobile parking application. Simply pay for parking with your cell phone! To use the ParkMobile system, register for free at www.parkmobile.com. To ensure an advanced level of service to Birmingham customers and visitors, the City of Birmingham is offering two valet parking locations: Hamilton near Ferndale and South Old Woodward near Merrill. The service is offered Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. The charges are $5 per vehicle (first two hours), then an additional $5 per hour thereafter. Also please continue to enjoy free parking in the City’s parking structures through December 31, 2020.
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Voter News from the Clerk's Office
The City Clerk’s Office is open to the public for election business only. Voters may apply for, receive and return an absentee ballot at the Clerk's Office. Residents are required to enter City Hall using the Martin Street entrance. Individuals with limited mobility are encouraged to call (248) 530-1880 for assistance with barrier free entry.
Absentee ballots have been mailed to those who requested them, and the Clerk's Office is continuing to mail ballots as new requests come in. If you would like to request an absentee ballot for the November 3, 2020 general election and have not yet done so, please visit mi.gov/vote, return your absentee ballot application to the drop box at City Hall or stop by the Clerk's Office. You may also visit mi.gov/vote to view the ballot or track your ballot.
The Clerk’s Office is happy to announce a new drive up absentee ballot drop box is located at City Hall near the driveway entrance off of Henrietta. You may simply drive up, deposit your ballot or ballot application, and be on your way. Don't forget to sign and seal your absentee ballot envelope.
If you prefer to mail your ballot, the postage is on us. All absentee ballots will have postage included on their return envelopes. The Clerk’s Office strongly encourages you to mail your ballot as soon as possible to ensure it is received by Tuesday, November 3, 2020. Turning in your ballot early is helpful and appreciated!
Precinct Location Change
Precinct 6 voters who typically vote at City Hall will be directed to the Community House. This change was made because there is more room at the Community House to safely accommodate voters.
Important Dates for the November Election:
• October 19 – Last day to register to vote online or by mail. Voters who still need to register after this date should do so in person at the Clerk's Office.
• October 30 by 5 p.m. – Last day to request an absentee ballot by mail.
• November 2 at 10 a.m. - Deadline for spoiling an absentee ballot
• November 2 at 4 p.m. – Deadline for issuing any absentee ballots
• November 3 – State General Election – Polls are open 7 a.m.-8 p.m. If you received an absentee ballot and wish to vote in person on Election Day instead, you may surrender the absentee ballot at your polling place to vote. If you lost your absentee ballot or did not receive one, you may vote in person at the polls on election day.
• November 3 by 8 p.m. – Ballots being hand delivered to the Clerk's Office must be turned in by 8 p.m. on Election Day, ballots postmarked by Nov 2 and delivered by mail will be accepted on or before November 17.
Election Inspectors Needed
Interested in becoming an election inspector? Please contact the Clerk’s Office at (248) 530-1880 or visit www.bhamgov.org/voting to download the election inspector application.
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Joel Campbell, Fire Marshall |
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Connect with Us on Instagram
Are you connecting with the City on social media? In addition to our Facebook, Twitter and Nextdoor pages, we’ve launched an official City of Birmingham Instagram page! On this platform, we showcase beautiful photos of the City and our residents. Make sure to follow us on Instagram (@bhamgov) so you don’t miss any updates.
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Maple Road Reconstruction Project Update
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The Maple Road Reconstruction Project is in the home stretch! On behalf of the City, engineering team and construction workers, we thank you for your continued patience as we enter the final stage of this project. The project will wrap up in October and the finished product will be beautiful!
The project is the second phase in the City’s three-phase plan to improve infrastructure and amenities in downtown Birmingham. Construction crews achieved several important infrastructure milestones on East Maple (between Woodward and Old Woodward) in the month of September, including installation of new planter boxes and traffic signal mast arms, and completion of streetlight foundation and electrical hand hole work. On West Maple (between Pierce and Chester), crews continued to enhance the infrastructure by completing all concrete repairs between Chester and Southfield, laying foundation for planter boxes, irrigation and streetlights, and completing traffic signal work at the Henrietta intersection.
In October, crews will complete finishing touches on the project. On both East and West Maple, crews will plant trees in the new planter boxes, install street lights, stripe the drive and parking lanes, and install meter posts and charging stations.
The Maple Road Reconstruction Project will help the City manage traffic more effectively; provide a welcoming, attractive experience for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists; and serve the community for decades to come. Look for the finished project later this month.
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Complete your Census Survey Today
The U.S. Census Bureau is still collecting responses, which means there’s still time for Birmingham to be counted. Every ten years the U.S. Census Bureau counts U.S. residents to reapportion the number of House of Representative seats for each state and to direct federal funding to roads, schools, and hospitals. A full and accurate count of Michigan residents will ensure the state receives its correct share of representation and funding. The U.S. Census Bureau is offering residents opportunities to respond over the phone by calling (844) 330-2020 or online at https://2020census.gov/. Respond today!
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Fire Prevention Week
Fire Prevention Week is observed each year during the week of October 9th in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire, which began on October 8, 1871, and caused devastating damage.
This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen” works to educate everyone about the simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves, and those around them, safe in the kitchen.
Did you know? - Cooking is the #1 cause of home fires and home fire injuries. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of fires in the kitchen.
Never leave the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food – if you must leave, turn off stove.
Keep anything that can catch fire away from your stove – oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains.
If you have a fire, get out and stay out – Call 911.
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Birmingham Welcomes New Businesses |
The following businesses recently opened in Birmingham. Stop by soon and give them a warm welcome!
Paint Nail Bar, 229 North Old Woodward. Enjoy a luxury manicure or pedicure at Paint Nail Bar where they emphasize cleanliness, health and customer service.
S-Three Restaurants (Sidecar, Shift, and Slice), 117 Willits. Sidecar Slider Bar specializes in sliders, hot dogs and sides. Shift Cocktail Bar offers craft cocktails,small plates, with an impressive wine by the glass list. SLICE Pizza Kitchen is coming soon and will offer Neapolitan style pizza and Italian submarine sandwiches.
Johnny Was, 115 South Old Woodward. Women’s fashion retailer Johnny Was has long been synonymous with apparel that celebrates a bohemian elegance and artisan detailing with their unrivaled embroideries, prints and trims.
Sorrentia's Salon, 588 North Old Woodward. Enjoy an upscale salon experience specializing in healthy hair restoration. Sorrentia's Salon also offers scalp analysis and electrode treatments with a trichologist.
The French Lady, 768 North Old Woodward. Pick up delicious French specialties such as fluffy quiche Lorraine, velvety vegetable bisques, decadent chocolate mousse and so much more.
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Save with Fall Golf Rates
Cooler weather, changing leaves and discounted golf make fall the perfect time of year to hit the links. Head to the golf course and enjoy the fall rates listed below!
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WEEKDAY
Adult Member
Senior/Junior Member
Guest
Sr/Jr Guest
WEEKEND
Adult Member
Senior/Junior Member
Guest
Sr/Jr Guest
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WALK RIDE
$12.00 $18.00
$ 7.50 $13.50
$14.00 $20.00
$11.00 $17.00
WALK RIDE
$13.00 $19.00
$ 8.50 $14.50
$15.00 $21.00
$12.00 $18.00
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Golf Course Closure Information
Springdale Golf Course will remain open through mid-October, and Lincoln Hills Golf Course will remain open through the end of the 2020 golf season (as weather permits). We'll see you soon!
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Recycling Event
Do you have plastic bags, household hazardous waste, or electronics that you wish to recycle? SOCRRA will be hosting a collection event on Saturday, October 17 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Royal Oak High School. The event is open to Birmingham residents and will take place at 1500 Lexington Blvd in Royal Oak. Please enter Lexington Blvd from Crooks Rd. For more information and a complete list of the materials being collected please view the event’s flyer or SOCRRA's website.
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Curbside Leaf Collection Begins week of October 12th |
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For streets with curbs only, the city is divided into two zones. Determine when leaves will be picked up within your zone using the curbside leaf collection map shown below. Simply rake your leaves into the street for pickup the weekend prior to your street's designated week. Residents living on uncurbed streets may place leaves in approved containers curbside by 7 a.m. on your trash day now through the week of December 14th. For more information, visit www.bhamgov.org/leaves.
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Birmingham PD Implements Body-Worn Cameras
As a service to the community and to foster transparency and accountability, the Birmingham Police Department recently implemented body-worn cameras for all officers. Last year, the City updated the in-car video systems with technology that enabled a seamless integration of the cameras.
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Birmingham Green
As we begin to reluctantly welcome cooler weather, and even more reluctantly begin to eye the thermostat for relief, it is hard not to ponder what improvements could be made to a home to save energy costs, increase comfort levels, and ultimately reduce the impact that recuperative energy consumption has on the environment. The energy losses are often more keenly felt in a historic home, but the culprit is often different than one would expect. Prospective projects on historic homes in the City regularly point to original wood, single pane glass windows as the root cause of energy loss in the home. While original windows are not bereft of blame, they are typically one of the least offensive contributors to home energy losses. Floors, ceilings and walls, ducts, and plumbing penetrations all amplify energy losses at major levels if not addressed. With City data showing 2,729 homes in Birmingham that will be 100 years or older by the year 2030, it is important to address energy losses in the right areas to prevent the unnecessary loss of original features, and ultimately to protect the environment.
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October News from The Birmingham Museum |
From Powerhouse to City Park
This month is an anniversary of sorts for Birmingham’s Booth Park. On October 9, 1931 George Booth, founder of Cranbrook, purchased the land. The nearly 4-acre plot had previously been home to the Detroit United Railway’s powerhouse and car barn. The DUR operated street cars that traveled through Birmingham to Detroit and Pontiac, carrying many Birminghamsters to work, school, and shopping trips and the Powerhouse provided the electric current that powered those cars. In 1925 rail service ceased with the DUR’s bankruptcy and the powerhouse was torn down. In 1943 the property was sold to the Cranbrook Foundation, who donated it to the city of Birmingham for “recreational or cultural purposes”. Originally named Harmon Park, it was given its current name in 1952. This photo shows the DUR Powerhouse around 1910.
The Birmingham Museum is currently closed to the public, but staff are here to help with your questions! Contact us at (248) 530-1928 or museum@bhamgov.org. Check us out on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Youtube!
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October News from The Baldwin Library |
Learn Connect Discover October Issue: Now Available
Read the October issue of Baldwin’s Learn Connect Discover newsletter online.
Homework Help: Youth Databases 101
Saturday, October 10 at 11:00 a.m.
See a brief overview of all the youth databases that Baldwin offers. All databases covered work well for children in grades K to 8. Parents and children are welcome. Register here.
Virtual DIA Tour: “Women Suffragettes”
Tuesday, October 6 at 7:00 p.m.
Docent Kathleen McBroom leads a virtual tour of pieces in the DIA’s collection that highlight the women’s suffrage movement in honor of the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment. Register here.
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. Visit www.baldwinlib.org/reopening to view current information on the Library's hours and services.
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2121 Midvale
Birmingham MI 48009
(248) 203-5270
Flu Shot Clinic @ Next
Tuesday Oct. 6th from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Michigan residents are urged to receive flu vaccinations ahead of upcoming flu season.
Join us at Next for our annual Flu Shot Clinic. Senior dose and regular dose available. Administered by Walgreens pharmacists. Please bring a photo ID and insurance card with you. Appointments are strongly encouraged – please call the main office to schedule your appointment. All building CDC safety protocols will be observed.
New Morning Yoga @ Next
MORNING SHINE YOGA with Caryn Ciagne
Mondays and Wednesdays from 9:00 to 10:00 am.
Caryn Ciagne, Concierge Wellness Coach and owner of CC Yoga will lead these new classes. Look for further information on the Next website
Thursday Evenings Speaker Series
Election Meddling
Thursday Oct. 22, 6:00 via Zoom
Gus Mondalek, Religious & Middle East Scholar
Join Gus for a closer look at Russia, China and Iran, their strategy to disrupt elections and how their efforts can undermine democratic governments here in the United States and abroad.
Michigan Policy Issues
Thursday Oct. 29, 6:00 pm via Zoom
Chad Livengood, Senior Editor - Crain’s Detroit Business
Chad has covered politics and government in Michigan for the past eight years including how Detroit is back on the rise after decades of economic, social and political decline. He can answer questions about a wide variety of public policy issues, including education, roads, the state budget, the financial health of Michigan cities and metro Detroit regional governance issues.
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Thank you for reading Around Town, a monthly e-newsletter from the City of Birmingham. We hope you find the information timely and useful. Please feel free to forward this e-mail to friends and neighbors who may be interested in Birmingham. |
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151 Martin St. P.O. Box 3001 Birmingham, MI 48012
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tel: (248) 530-1800
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