City of Birmingham
Around Town E-Newsletter
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June
Around Town
E-Newsletter
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Welcome to the Around Town e-Newsletter from the City of Birmingham. During uncertain times, we hope you enjoy this special edition containing information and resources pertaining to COVID-19. Thank you for your support and please forward this newsletter along to friends and family.
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Inside City Hall with Birmingham City Manager,
Joe Valentine
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Receive the latest updates from Birmingham in this month's edition of Inside City Hall with Birmingham City Manager, Joe Valentine.
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We're Still Here for You with COVID-19 Resources
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Read the new Executive Order which lifts the stay-at-home order, re-opens restaurants at 50% capacity effective June 8th, allows outdoor crowds of up to 100 people with social distancing, and more.
COVID-19 Webpage
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. City officials are working to gather as much information as possible to assist the community in fighting and responding to the COVID-19 virus. The site also lists community resources for parents and seniors, crisis hotlines, places of worship offering support services and more.
Citywide Email System
Birmingham residents are strongly encouraged to sign-up for the
citywide email system
at
www.bhamgov.org/citywideemail
. Subscribers receive weekly messages from the Mayor with the latest updates pertaining to COVID-19. 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.
COVID-19 Hotline
Residents may use the City's
COVID-19 hotline
for information about City and County COVID-19 resources by calling 248-530-1805 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. To assist the elderly, quarantined and immunocompromised individuals, the hotline can be used for services such as bringing refuse containers to and from the curb, welfare checks or delivery of batteries, first-aid items, diapers, formula, etc
Restaurants Open for Take-out
Many of your favorite Birmingham restaurants offer take-out or delivery. View a complete list of restaurants offering take-out at
www.bhamgov.org
. Many also have tables set up outside for patrons.
City Meetings
Upcoming regularly scheduled City meetings for the City of Birmingham will be conducted virtually (online and/or by phone) due to health concerns surrounding COVID-19 under the Governor of Michigan’s Executive Order. Learn how to participate in these meetings at
www.bhamgov.org/participate
and
download virtual meeting Zoom instructions here
. Please note the
City Commission Budget Hearing
originally scheduled for Saturday, May 9 has been rescheduled for Saturday, June 6 at 8:30 a.m. Download the
public notice
for this virtual meeting.
City Services
City offices continue to service the public, however the Municipal Building and Department of Public Services are not open to the public. Residents are encouraged to contact any department requiring assistance via phone or email. Visit
www.bhamgov.org/contacts
to view a list of departmental contact numbers for services needed.
Tennis Courts are OPEN
Tennis courts are now open. Birmingham basketball courts remain closed. Playgrounds also remain closed, per the
Oakland County Health Order
.
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Who Let the Dogs Out? Lincoln Hills Dog Park is OPEN!
The Lincoln Hills Dog Park is now open.
There is a 10 person maximum in the park, and a two dog maximum per dog owner. All dogs must be wearing tags and all owners must abide by dog park rules and City of Birmingham ordinances. To review the rules and learn more about the Lincoln Hills Dog Park, please visit
www.bhamgov.org/dogpark
. Enjoy!
Events Update
Birmingham Events & Activities Update
Events may be altered or cancelled to keep everyone safe in a COVID environment.
Birmingham Hometown Parade
: The Celebrate Birmingham Hometown parade has been canceled.
Birmingham Farmers Market
,
Sundays May through October
: The drive-through market is going strong in Public Parking Lot 6 with changes in place to keep farmers, shoppers and staff safe. Learn more at
www.AllinBirmingham.com/FarmersMarket
.
In the Park Summer Concerts
: The 2020 In the Park Summer Concert series has been canceled.
Birmingham Movie Nights
: The 2020 Birmingham Movie Night events have been canceled.
Birmingham Village Fair
: The Birmingham Village Fair has been canceled.
Day On The Town
: This event is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, July 25, however it will not be held in its traditional format. Please visit
www.AllinBirmingham.com
for updates.
Birmingham Cruise Event
: The 2020 Birmingham Cruise Event has been canceled.
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Maple Road Reconstruction Off to a Fast Start
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The City of Birmingham is moving forward with ongoing infrastructure improvements in the central business district. With the Maple Road Reconstruction project already 20% complete, changes are quite visible along Maple Road from Southfield to Woodward. Similar to the award-winning Old Woodward project, Maple Road is being transformed above and below with entirely new underground infrastructure, streetlighting and electrical systems.
In May, work included preparing the site for construction and the removal of pavement and 48 streetlights throughout the construction area. Work began on the 12-inch sanitary main line, which is now complete from Woodward to Old Woodward, and between Pierce and Chester. Crews also worked on the 12-inch water main between Woodward and Old Woodward. In addition, all sanitary sewer leads in buildings from Woodward to Old Woodward were connected to the new sewer line.
In June, construction will focus on preparation for lining the water main across Woodward; completing water main installation and tying new water services in to the main; receiving delivery of the mast arms; and preparing Maple Road for repaving. Lining the water main will require closure of the right lane on northbound Woodward at Maple for most of June. Maple Road also remains closed to traffic and motorists are being directed to detours during the construction period.
When complete, the Maple Road Reconstruction Project will mirror Old Woodward, creating a cohesive look in the downtown area. The finished project will feature improved landscaping and on-street parking, granite bench seating and cell phone charging stations.
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Hometown Heroes to be Recognized Along Maple Road
The Birmingham Shopping District (BSD) is proud of the way Birmingham residents and workers have stepped up in unprecedented times. Plans are underway to display heroes’ photos along Maple Road this summer. Heroes come in all shapes and sizes and play many different roles. The BSD would like to recognize those who have made a difference in your life or the lives of those around them during the COVID-19 pandemic. This might be a teacher, nurse, doctor, first responder, or neighbor who has become a community cheerleader. The community is encouraged to
nominate a hometown hero at
www.AllinBirmingham.com/hometownheroes
.
All nominees must either live or work in Birmingham. Thank you for your support!
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Prepare for Emergencies with File of Life
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Medical emergencies can happen anytime, and the Birmingham Fire Department wants you to be prepared. The department is offering residents the File of Life: a single document containing critical information including medical history, emergency contacts and medications. This resource allows first responders to immediately begin treatment, notify loved ones and pass vital data on to physicians at the emergency room. Birmingham first responders are trained to find this resource on the front of your refrigerator, giving paramedics more time to treat patients on arrival. It is an absolute asset to emergency preparedness and peace of mind. Residents may pick up a File of Life in a clear envelope under a canopy in front of Fire Station 1 (Adams Station) or in the front lobby at Station 2. For residents who are elderly, quarantined or immunocompromised, please call 248-530-1805 to request a File of Life.
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Online Forms Coming Soon
Coming soon! The City is developing a convenient online portal for you to submit your forms and payments. Using the portal, you will be able to register your pet, request a block party, submit your assessor’s documents, and so much more from the comfort of your home.
Forms that you will find on the portal include:
- Clerk’s Office forms such as pet licensing, registration a tree service provider, application to hold an estate sale, FOIA requests, and more.
- DPS forms like usage of a city hydrant and tree and shrub permits for the street right-of-way adjacent to the property.
- Police department request forms for residential parking permits and block parties.
- Assessor’s affidavits such as principal resident exemption, property transfer, request to rescind principal residence exemptions, and more.
Stay tuned for more information coming soon!
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Sunny Day Ideas
- Create your own splash pad using sprinklers, buckets, and water toys
- Have a picnic with your family in a grassy area of your neighborhood park
- Audubon.com to identify your bird visitor.
Rainy Day Ideas
- Have a family dance party—take turns playing dj and enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of dance.
- Trade puzzles with a neighbor
- Try a pantry cooking challenge to creatively use those ingredients that have been hanging out in the back of the cupboard
Nighttime Ideas
- Have a backyard camp out-sleep under the stars without straying from the comfort of your own home.
- Play flashlight tag--if someone’s flashlight beam shines on you, you’re it!
- Create a treasure hunt using glow-in-the-dark items.
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Submit City Payments Online
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Due to the pandemic, mail delivery services are running slower than normal. If you wish to make your payment by mail, please allow additional time for delivery so you don’t incur any late fees. The City Commission recently approved waiving the $3 convenience fee for e-check payments through the City’s online payment website until June 30, 2021. This is a great way to draft a secure electronic check to the City instead of mailing a check. Please allow a couple days for your e-check to process. If you need to make an immediate payment, the City’s drop box behind City Hall is open 24/7 or you can make a credit card payment on the City’s online payment website for a small convenience fee. For more information concerning online payments, please see
www.bhamgov.org/paymybill
.
You may also submit payments by mail for
Invoices and Special Assessments
to:
City of Birmingham, Treasury Department, 151 Martin St., P.O. Box 3001, Birmingham, MI 48012-3001
You may also submit payments by mail for
Water Bills
to:
City of Birmingham - Water, P.O. Box 671756,
Detroit,
MI 48267-1756
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Treat Dad to a Round of Golf for Father's Day
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Park & Play
Lincoln Hills Golf Course and Springdale Golf Course are open daily from 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
To support public health and adhere to physical distancing, the City has established safety initiatives that align with the Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommendations. A “Park & Play” model, created by the National Golf Course Owners Association, is in place at both courses. Walking only, tee times are required. Learn more at
www.golfbirmingham.org
. We hope to see you on the green soon!
Father's Day Closest to the Pin Contest
This Father’s Day, June 21, Lincoln Hills and Springdale Golf Courses will be having a fun closest to the pin contest. Winners from each course will receive a special prize. Book your tee time by calling (248) 530-1670 or follow this
Membership Pass Online Tee Time link
.
See you on the links!
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Clerk's Office Sends Out Reminders to Join the Permanent Absent Voter List
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The Birmingham City Clerk’s Office recently mailed reminder invitation cards to join the Permanent Absent Voter List. Cards were mailed to all registered voters who have not yet joined the absent voter list. In mid-June, the Clerk's office will be mailing absent voter ballot applications to those who are on the absent voter list. The State of Michigan recently announced they will also be sending out absent voter ballot applications to help those who want to vote by mail in this COVID environment. The Clerk's office received many questions regarding this process and created a
helpful FAQ
regarding absent voter ballot applications.
All live precincts will be open for the August Election but we are still encouraging voters to consider voting by mail for safety and convenience. The Permanent Absentee Voter List has been growing state wide by about 5.4%. Just a few weeks ago, 17.28% of Birmingham's Registered Voters were on the Permanent Absent Voter List. As of today, our list has grown 8.38% as more than 1500 voters have joined the absentee mailing list.
City Seeks Election Inspectors for Upcoming Elections
The City Clerk's office is seeking Election Inspectors as it prepares for the upcoming elections: the State Primary on August 4th, and the General Election on November 3rd. City election inspectors are essential in the functions of democracy. Their duties can include: processing voters when they arrive at their polling location; assisting voters while they cast their ballots; helping to close a precinct when voting is complete as well as other assorted tasks throughout Election Day.
Candidates must be at least 16 years old (the voter registration requirement is waived for inspectors under 18), be a registered voter in the state of Michigan, and be able to attend a paid election inspector training session. Training session dates will be announced soon. Knowledge and familiarity with computers is also helpful. Full and half-day shifts are available. The pay rate for inspectors is $11.00/hour. Inspectors can anticipate working a total of about 17 hours, with the bulk of their time dedicated to activities on Election Day.
If you'd like to be a part of democracy in action, please complete the Election Inspector application. For more information, please log onto
www.bhamgov.org/voting
or call the City Clerk's office at (248) 530-1880.
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Alternate Recycling Options
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Do you have items like electronics and scrap metal that need to be recycled, paper that needs to be shredded, or hazardous waste that needs to be discarded? Although SOCRRA remains closed for supplemental recycling, starting on June 1 residents will have three sites to choose from to meet their recycling needs free of charge.
· GFL Recycling - 414 E. Hudson, Royal Oak
· eCycle Opportunities - 29699 Southfield Road, Southfield – part of the JVS building
· ERG Environmental Services - 13040 Merriman Road, Livonia
For more information regarding the materials each site collects, their hours and phone numbers please see
this flyer
.
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2020 Concrete Sidewalk Repair Program
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Every year, the City conducts a sidewalk improvement program. Work this year is focusing in the south central section of the City bounded by Maple to the north, 14 Mile to the south, Adams/Woodward to the east, and Pierce to the west. Sidewalk improvements will also be completed in the northwest section of the Central Business District. Sidewalk work is expected to be completed by October.
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Pet Care & Safety Reminders for Walking Around Town
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The City of Birmingham has several pet regulations designed to keep pets and people safe, especially during these uncertain times. Here are some useful 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.
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From the Planning Dept.
Birmingham Green
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Finally, the summer we have all been waiting for! The grass is looking green, the sun is shining, and the birds are singing. In particular, this sunshine is actively getting to work providing plant food, vitamin D…and the occasional sunburn. For some properties in Birmingham, the sun is also providing a clean and continuous source of alternative energy. Since 2009, the City of Birmingham has provided a pathway for residents and businesses to install solar arrays to supply themselves with a renewable energy source that provides a return on investment, increased property values, and less dependability on the grid and existing infrastructure. Additionally, as solar technology has evolved, solar panels have become stylistically much slimmer and more attractive on the roof, and can often blend in with the existing construction. If you are considering solar panels in any home improvement project coming up, check out
Project Sunroof by Google
to get a rough estimate for your solar savings through a Google Earth analysis. Contact the Planning Division at (248)-530-1856 for any questions on how to get started!
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June News from The Birmingham Museum
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Birmingham Museum to plant oak tree to highlight landscape restoration plan at Facebook Live program Thursday, June 4 at 1 PM
A white oak tree will be planted to honor the Birmingham Museum’s landscape restoration and planned fund raising for the Heritage Zone component of its Landscape Master Plan on June 4 at 1 PM. Due to public health safety precautions, the event will not be a public gathering. Instead, participants are invited to attend via Facebook Live on the museum’s Facebook page at
https://www.facebook.com/TheBirminghamMuseum/
.
The grounds of the Birmingham Museum include over three acres around the Allen House, built in 1926 by Marion and Harry Allen, the city’s first mayor. At the time, mature elms and oaks graced the landscape along with lawns and gardens of the property. Over the past 100 years, most of the original trees have been lost to age or disease, while other landscape features have been obscured by invasive plants or the passage of time.
In 2018, the Museum Board worked with historic landscape architect Brian Devlin to develop a landscape master plan to address restoration and improve public access. The re-introduction of original tree species is a key element of the plan, and with the tree planting June 4, the Museum Board is also announcing a virtual fundraising initiative. Donors who want to contribute to the landscape restoration project can make a contribution to a specific component of the Heritage Zone online at
https://bhamgov.wufoo.com/forms/zw2oa9v05w8vrb/
. The Heritage Zone component of the master plan refers to the area around the Allen and Hunter Houses, and is the first of four zones to be restored with perennial gardens, elm trees, and other plant materials.
Although the Birmingham Museum is currently closed to the public, we are available for research requests and artifact donations can still be made. Contact us at 248-530-1682 or
museum@bhamgov.org
while you are staying safe at home.
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June News from The Baldwin Library
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For the health and safety of our community, the Baldwin Public Library will remain closed to the public until further notice. Visit
www.baldwinlib.org
for the latest updates.
While we are closed:
Baldwin’s summer reading program will be virtual this summer and will run from June 12 to August 8. Visit
www.baldwinlib.org/summer
to register and get started. Thank you to the Friends of the Baldwin Public Library for sponsoring this year’s program!
Librarian Letters
Would you or your child like to receive a letter from a Baldwin librarian? Fill out the online form at
www.baldwinlib.org/letters
and a librarian will joyfully write you or your child a letter.
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Respond to the 2020 Census & Apply for Census Jobs
Be counted, Birmingham!
Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the U.S. Census Bureau has extended the response deadline to October 31, 2020. You may fill out your census form by mail, phone, or online at
https://my2020census.gov/
. The information collected by the U.S. Census Bureau is used to produce apportionment counts, inform redistricting decisions, and guide federal spending so it is important that each and every resident is counted.
Apply for a Census Job
Thousands of jobs will soon be needed to fulfill the Constitutional duty of completing the Census. Apply for a Census job at
www.2020census.gov/jobs
.
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Keep Grass & Weeds Below Eight Inches
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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. 118-66) on the
City's website
. For more information, call the Department of Public Services at (248) 530-1700. To make a complaint, call the Birmingham Code Enforcement Hotline at 248-530-1859, and leave a detailed message.
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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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