March 2024 Around Town e-Newsletter

AROUND TOWN E NEWSLETTER MARCH

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INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

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EMERGENCY ALERTS

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VIRTUALLY EXPLORE BIRMINGHAM

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ENGAGE WITH US

Share feedback at engage.bhamgov.org.

SOCIAL MEDIA

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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 and other city boards meet in-person, and most have a virtual option available to the public For meetings that occur after hours, visitors can access City Hall through the Police Department lobby entrance on Pierce Street. Learn how to participate in virtual meetings 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.

SUBMIT CONCERNS WITH GOVALERT

CONTACT US

Visit www bhamgov org/contacts to view a list of department contact numbers for services needed.

Submit non-emergency concerns directly to the City of Birmingham using the GovAlert Mobile app. Simply download the free app and follow the userfriendly prompts. Follow this link for a short video with step-by-step instructions. Don't want to use the app? That's OK! Submit your request at bhamgov.org/citizenrequests.

NO EASTER REFUSE DELAY

There will be no refuse collection delays around the Good Friday and Easter holidays at the end of March. Please place your trash in approved containers at the curb by 7 a.m. on your regular pick-up 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.

JOIN US FOR A CITY COMMISSION WORKSHOP

PUBLIC PROJECT REVIEW PROCESS

MONDAY, MARCH 4, 2024, 6:30 P.M.

Learn about the public project review process at a workshop on Monday, March 4, 2024 at 6:30 p.m., immediately before the regularly scheduled City Commission meeting.

Residents are encouraged to attend workshops to gain a better understanding of topics and projects considered by the City Commission The Mayor will call for public comment at the end of each workshop to ensure the City Commission has as much time as possible throughout the workshop to learn, explore, discuss and hear community input as well

Workshop agendas are available each Thursday preceding the meetings on the City's website.

MEET THE STAFF

PATRICK BRZOZOWSKI, CODE ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR

Meet Patrick Brzozowski, the city’s newest Code Enforcement Coordinator. Patrick began working for the City last fall, and has worked for various municipalities over the past 10 years. Follow this link to learn about Patrick’s background, hobbies, family and more.

NEWS FROM THE MUSEUM

EXPLORE THE LIVES OF WOMEN IN EARLY OAKLAND COUNTY WITH “THE PRINDLE SISTERS: BIRMINGHAM'S PIONEER WOMEN”

March is Women’s History Month, and the Birmingham Museum will feature a special presentation at the Baldwin Public Library on March 14 at 7 p.m. about women’s pioneer experience. Museum staff Donna Casaceli will draw from her extensive experience as a living history presenter to discuss what daily life was like for the women in the wilderness of early Oakland County. Casaceli will discuss women’s roles, family life, household hardships, and personal loss through the stories of three sisters who came as brides to the unknown frontier of early Michigan, bringing little else but each other, but surviving and shaping the future of Birmingham

You can take a self-guided cemetery tour of the Prindle sisters and other pioneers of early Birmingham using the tour brochure Try the free tour app of Greenwood Cemetery by using your smart phone. Just search “The Birmingham Museum” in the app store. Contact the Birmingham Museum at (248) 530-1928 or visit us at bhamgov.org/museum.

NEWS FROM THE ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT

CONSTRUCTION TO BEGIN MARCH 6 ON WOODWARD AT BROWN/FOREST

The Michigan Department of Transportation's contractor plans to start construction on pedestrian crossing improvements and new traffic signals at the intersection of Woodward and Brown, and the Woodward and Forest intersection on Wednesday, March 6, 2024

This work will require daily single lane closures along northbound and southbound Woodward; traffic on Woodward will be maintained in both directions for the duration of the project At times, Brown and Forest may be closed for up to 10 days for construction. Weather permitting, the project is expected to be complete by the end of April.

Thank you for your patience as crews complete this work.

NEWS FROM THE ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT

CONSTRUCTION

PROJECTS

Progress continues on the Sewer Rehabilitation Program, and the following projects are tentatively scheduled to begin this spring:

Parking Lot No. 5 Slope Repair – Install Plantings

Sidewalk Program

Redding Road Project

Edgewood Avenue Project

For more information, visit bhamgov org/engineering or call (248) 530-1840

LEAD SERVICE REPLACEMENT PROGRAM

The Lead Service Replacement Program continues as the City works toward its goal to replace all lead services by the end of this year The City recently mailed a letter to property owners with known lead water services, instructing them to schedule the replacement of their water service for free. The City will be starting a door-knocking effort to replace remaining lead services. If the property owner is not available, a flier will be left. If you receive a letter or flier, please follow the instructions to schedule your water service replacement.

WATER SERVICE VERIFICATION PROGRAM

The City has a deadline of October 2024 to submit material information from 364 water service lines to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). The City randomly selected 364 water services to verify the material for this EGLE requirement. The City will be knocking on doors to talk to property owners about verifying the "In-Home/Business" water service line material If a property owner is not home, a flier will be left with the next steps.

S. ETON RESURFACING PROJECT RESCHEDULED FOR 2025

Roadwork on S Eton between Maple and 14 Mile was or ll scheduled for the summer of 2024, however this improvement project has been rescheduled for 2025 as th works to secure grant funding.

In 2023, the Multi-Modal Transportation Board worke residents and businesses to create an updated S. Eton road that incorporated pedestrian enhancements and bike lanes o side of the street. Upon approval from the City Commission of 2023, the City has been coordinating with the M Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the Southeast M Council of Governments (SEMCOG) on a TAP (Transpo Alternative Program) Grant that would fund a large portion o project. The project has been supported in concept by the organizations in charge of distributing the TAP Grant. The last requirement of the grant is for the City to have an aboveground architectural survey along the entire length of the project conducted by a certified architectural historian The City anticipates this will be completed in 2024, enabling the approval and distribution of TAP Grant funding for 2025 projects

NEWS FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT

SKATE WITH A COP

Skate with a police officer on Sunday, March 3 from 1:10-2:30 p.m. at the Birmingham Ice Arena! Officers from Birmingham, Auburn Hills and Bloomfield Township are looking forward to participating in open skating and meeting members of the community out on the ice!

What: Skate with a Cop

Where: Birmingham Ice Sports Arena

2300 E. Lincoln

When: Sunday, March 3, 2024,1:10-2:30p.m.

Open Skate Pricing:

Adults: $6/per skater

Seniors (55): $5/per skater

17 & Under: $5/per skater

Rental Skates: $3 (sizes are limited)

SLOW DOWN; DON’T BLOCK SIDEWALKS

With spring approaching, please be mindful of these important safety tips and do your part to help keep Birmingham a walkable city.

Posted or not, the speed limit in a residential neighborhood is 25 mph Slowing down is imperative for ensuring the safety and well-being of families, children and individuals going about their daily routines. By adhering to lower speed limits, drivers can increase reaction time and reduce the risk of accidents.

Parking across sidewalks poses a significant threat to pedestrian safety and hinders the accessibility of public spaces. Sidewalks are designed to provide a safe and designated path for pedestrians, children, the elderly, and individuals with mobility challenges, such as those using wheelchairs or strollers. When vehicles obstruct these pathways by parking across sidewalks, it forces pedestrians to navigate onto the road, increasing the risk of accidents and compromising their safety

NEWS FROM THE FIRE DEPARTMENT

SCHEDULE A HOME SAFETY EVALUATION

The Birmingham Fire Department is continuing its dedication to Community Risk Reduction by offering a free in home safety evaluation. Home safety evaluations ensure all smoke detectors, explosive gas alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are in proper working order, are within the usage date, and also to ensure they are installed properly in the best location for your safety. The Birmingham Fire Department has free smoke and CO detectors available for those who are in need of assistance Home safety evaluations are offered to all Birmingham residents To make an appointment or for more information, call (248) 530-1923.

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS REMINDERS

With spring approaching and daylight savings beginning March 10, it is time to check your smoke and CO detector expiration dates and change the batteries It is important to remember what a critical role these prevention products make during an emergency!

SPECIAL SIREN TEST

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20 AT 1 P.M.

Oakland County’s annual special siren test will take place at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 20, 2024 When the National Weather Service issues a tornado warning or a severe thunderstorm with damaging winds at or greater than 70 mph for Oakland County, the sirens are activated. Oakland County has 275 outdoor warning sirens located throughout Oakland County.

View the entire 2024 siren test schedule and learn more about the outdoor warning system on Oakland County's website.

STILL TIME TO HELP IMPROVE HEALTH & WELLNESS OF OLDER ADULTS

AGING IN PLACE SURVEY

There’s still time to submit the Ad Hoc Aging in Place Committee’s survey to improve the health and wellness of older adults. The survey is for those of all ages and 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 is mailing 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

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.

NAME OUR NEW STREET SWEEPER

VOTE BY MARCH 15

The City of Birmingham’s new street sweeper needs a name! School-aged Birmingham residents submitted many creative and fun names for this new hardworking vehicle, which joins Sweeping Beauty and Meryl Sweep in the Department of Public Services' fleet that keeps our community clean.

Now it’s your turn! Vote for your favorite name by Friday, March 15, 2024 at https://engage.bhamgov.org/name-the-street-sweeper. The name with the most votes will be printed on the sweeper and shared on social media.

BIRMINGHAM GREEN

Historic preservation is often characterized by the unique challenge it presents in the profound questions it asks one to consider. What is important in our history? What parts of ou past should we preserve for the future? How can we bes transmit our understanding of the past to future generations?

Although these questions do not have a singular answer and are often debated, historic preservation has proven to be an enduring, useful and multi-faceted tool for governments of all levels. As time moves forward, it is important and beneficial to retain a strong commitment to preserving the past.

As a part of the City of Birmingham’s Historic District Commission’s (HDC) larger preservation goals, the HDC and City staff have determined that there is a need for an organized, holistic and long-range approach that has been lacking in the City up to this point To do this, the HDC will begin to develop a Historic Preservation Master Plan As the Plan develops, there will be a multitude of engagement opportunities to share your thoughts on historic preservation, starting with a survey that is live now on Engage Birmingham. Share your thoughts today!

MAKE A DIFFERENCE ON A BOARD OR COMMITTEE

Join a board or committee to have a direct impact on the city! Whether you are interested in public art, parks and recreation, historic buildings or safe transit, we have a board for you! Visit www bhamgov org/boardopportunities to view City of Birmingham boards and committees with current or upcoming vacant positions.

RESIDENTS WITHIN GEORGE W. KUHN DRAINAGE DISTRICT ELIGIBLE FOR RAINSMART REBATES

RAINSMART REBATES PILOT PROGRAM

Birmingham residents who live within the George W. Kuhn Drainage District are eligible for green stormwater infrastructure rebates through a RainSmart Rebates pilot program. The initiative by the Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner’s office offers up to $2,000 per property in rebates for the installation of rain gardens, rain barrels and trees to eligible residents over the next two years.

The George W. Kuhn Drainage District serves all or part of 14 communities, including Birmingham.

The primary goals of the RainSmart program include fostering awareness about stormwater management and promoting environmental stewardship. Green stormwater infrastructure manages rainwater utilizing vegetation, soils and natural processes to capture and slow rainwater or snowmelt as it moves across the landscape. This approach allows water to percolate through the soil and utilize plant roots to filter out contaminants. In addition, instead of letting the water flow into storm drains, techniques such as rain gardens, rain barrels, and trees filter and temporarily store the water to reduce the amount of stormwater from entering the drainage district’s underground pipes that handle both sewage and stormwater

In Birmingham, the George W. Kuhn Drainage District spans the east section of the City, approximately south of Derby and east of Adams. Residents may check their eligibility through the RainSmart Rebates Eligibility Map and learn more at OakGov.com/RainSmart.

“We will work to expand this program to other areas of Birmingham in the future,” said Birmingham Planning Director, Nicholas Dupuis. “We are excited to be part of this pilot program and hope the community will take advantage of the opportunity to reduce the amount of stormwater that enters the combined sewer system while improving water quality and climate resiliency ”

Rebate funds may not be applied to projects completed in the past, and will be allocated to new installation projects throughout 2024 and 2025 on a first-come, first-served basis until all of the allotted money is spent Applicants may follow a step-by-step process to implement an approved project to be eligible for the one-time rebate over the next two years. Interested residents may visit OakGov.com/rainsmart to learn more and submit their application.

NEWS FROM THE ICE SPORTS ARENA

LEARN TO SKATE REGISTRATION OPENS MARCH 4 AT 8 A.M.

Registration for the next session of the Birmingham Ice Sports Arena’s popular Learn to Skate program begins Monday, March 4 at 8 a.m. online at play bhamgov org Session Four classes start the week of March 11 and conclude May 12. Classes are open to skaters of all skill levels from ages 3 to adult and meet once per week, with skate rentals available. Download the class schedule here

SKATE WITH US!

Enjoy open skate at the Birmingham Ice Sports Arena all year round! The arena offers many open skate sessions throughout the week; see the schedule at www.bhamgov.org/icearena.

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

SPRING GOLF NEWS

EARLY SIGNUP BONUS BEGINS MARCH 18

Does the recent early taste of spring have you thinking about golf? Consider taking advantage of the early signup bonus offered at Birmingham’s Lincoln Hills Golf Course later this month! Residents receive a complimentary round of golf, while non-residents receive $25 off their membership.

Sign up at the Lincoln Hills clubhouse, 2666 West 14 Mile Road, from March 18 through 22 and March 25 through 29 between 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call (248) 5301670.

GOLF COURSES OPENING SOON!

Birmingham’s two beautiful nine-hole golf courses offer a great way to get outside and enjoy the start of spring! Lincoln Hills is scheduled to open April 1, weather permitting, and Springdale soon after. Learn more at bhamgov.org/golf.

“WELCOME BACK MEMBERS” GOLF EVENT APRIL 21

Join us for a fun "welcome back" event on Sunday, April 21, at Lincoln Hills to kick off the season! Registration begins at 4 p m with a 5 p m shotgun start followed by an awards dinner. Call Lincoln Hills at (248) 530-1670 for more information and to register.

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SERVICES UPDATES

TENNIS AND PICKLEBALL COURTS OPEN THIS MONTH

Thanks to our unusually warm February, the Kenning Park tennis courts are open! The city’s remaining tennis and pickleball courts will open by March 16, with reservations available beginning March 18.

Visit play.bhamgov.org for more information.

ATTEND THE MARCH 5 PARKS & REC BOARD MEETING

Join us for the next meeting of Birmingham’s Parks & Recreation Board on Tuesday, March 5, at 6:30 p m and learn about these agenda topics and more:

Review and evaluate proposals for professional design services for the Booth Park entry plaza and trail improvements

Park and project updates

Playground vendor information

Attend in person at the Department of Public Services, located at 851 South Eton Street (park inside the gate and use the side entrance), or join via Zoom at bhamgov.org/participate. Find more information about Parks & Recreation bond projects at bhamgov.org/parksbond.

YARD WASTE COLLECTION STARTS APRIL 1

Curbside ard waste collection will begin the week of April 1. Yard waste must be placed in kraft-style paper bags or trash containers with a “yard waste” decal sticker attached. Plastic bags are not acceptable.

Yard waste stickers are available in a literature rack on the City Clerk counter in City Hall, or from the Department of Public Services at dps@bhamgov.org and (248) 530-1700. For more information, view yard waste guidelines at bhamgov org/yardwaste

NO SPRING BURN FOR BARNUM PARK

DPS will not conduct a prescribed burn at Barnum Park this year. Instead of a burn, the native no-mow vegetation was cut back last fall

CELEBRATE BIRMINGHAM PARADE RETURNS MAY 19

Save the date: the Celebrate Birmingham hometown parade marches back into downtown Birmingham on Sunday, May 19 at 1 p m This beloved tradition offers several opportunities to get involved:

March in the parade! It’s a lot of fun, and a great way to spotlight your community group, local business, team, scout troop, dance studio, club, neighborhood association and more Children and adults of all ages are encouraged to march. Walk with your group, create a float, entertain the crowd or proudly represent your organization.

Become a sponsor! Increase awareness and build goodwill among residents with a sponsorship package, or by sponsoring a specific parade act or party activity.

Look for more information about sponsorship and participation options coming soon in Around Town, or contact the City Clerk’s Office at (248) 530-1880 or clerksoffice@bhamgov.org .

BIRMINGHAM SHOPPING DISTRICT

SPRING STROLL

SATURDAY, APRIL 13 11 A.M. - 2 P.M.

DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM

Register to participate in the free Spring Stroll event featuring local retailers, with special giveaways! The event will take place throughout downtown Birmingham on Saturday, April 13 from 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., with staggered start times. Attendees are invited to visit participating retailers, collect giveaways and complete an activity sheet, which may be returned for a prize.

Find more information and register at ALLINBirmingham.com/events. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and events downtown!

WELCOME, NEW BUSINESSES

WARBY PARKER

120 WEST MAPLE RD.

Warby Parker offers high-quality prescription glasses, sunglasses, contact lenses and more Find friendly advisors and top-notch optometrists who can help you find the perfect pair. Find out more by visiting their website.

RADIANT MADE FOR US

245 WEST MAPLE RD.

There’s a new jeweler in town! Stop by to say hello and see some of the beautiful items in store.

MARCH NEWS FROM THE BALDWIN PUBLIC LIBRARY

It’s a great month to stop by the Baldwin Public Library (BPL). Learn more about Suffragettes with the DIA, or Forensic Art with the Michigan State Police. Teens in grades 7-12 are invited to create Teeny Tiny Art, high school students will get some extra study hours at our after hours session, and we’re kicking off our college prep series Kids can celebrate Mario Day, and we’re hosting a new event for families who board game. Check out these and so much more at baldwinlib.org/calendar.

FRIENDS OF THE BALDWIN LIBRARY

4TH SATURDAY SALE

Stop by the Friends room on the lower level of the library to shop newly donated and sorted inventory on Saturday, March 23 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

LIBRARY OPEN HOUSE & DEDICATION

Save the date for the Library Open House and Dedication – Saturday, May 18, 2024.

We’re excited to share all the updates to BPL as a result of our third phase of construction!

JOIN US FOR BIRMINGHAM’S BIG NIGHT OUT TO BENEFIT NEXT!

Daxton Hotel • Thursday, April 4 • 7 p.m. 298 South Old Woodward Avenue

HEADLINING THIS YEAR'S BIG NIGHT OUT the incomparable Mark Randisi with the amazing acapella group, The Unforgettables kicking off the evening. Think of bands like Tommy Dorsey, Count Basie or Glen Miller and crooners like Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby and Dean Martin.

The night will be reminiscent of the nightclub scene that was popular through the 1930s and 40s with clubs such as the Copacabana, The Chi Chi Room and The Rainbow Room. Add strolling appetizers and desserts, special surprises, and the warmth of community, and you truly have a night to remember!

Join us for this very special evening, a community celebration to benefit Next!

Tickets are on sale now 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.

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