Birmingham public meetings in 2021

Planning Board

The Birmingham Planning Board is meeting to review site plans and design requests for two 4-story mixed-use buildings. The board will also consider a special land use permit and site plan for a new restaurant at 211 Hamilton Row.

• 211 Hamilton Row: SLUP and site plan request for a new restaurant serving alcoholic liquors
• 460 N. Old Woodward: Site plan and design review for a new 4-story mixed use building
• 325 S. Eton (District Lofts Phase 3): Site plan and design review for a new 4-story mixed use building

The Birmingham Planning Board recommended approval to the City Commission for a Special Land Use Permit and Final Site Plan & Design Review for Sybil, a new restaurant serving alcoholic liquor at 211 Hamilton Row, with conditions. The board also approved Final Site Plan & Design Reviews for a new 4-story mixed-use building at 460 N. Old Woodward (5-0) and for District Lofts Phase 3 at 325 S. Eton (6-0). No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was procedural in other respects.

• Recommended approval of SLUP for 211 Hamilton Row – Sybil (5-1)
• Recommended approval of Final Site Plan & Design Review for 211 Hamilton Row – Sybil (5-1)
• Approved Final Site Plan & Design Review for 460 N. Old Woodward (5-0)
• Approved Final Site Plan & Design Review for 325 S. Eton – District Lofts Phase 3 (6-0)

Martha Baldwin Park Board

The board will meet to welcome a new member and review park conditions. Discussion items include maintenance agreement terms, a draft interpretive sign, and an update on the Lebanese Cedar Tree.

• Review of Maintenance Agreement Terms
• Review of Draft Interpretive Sign
• Lebanese Cedar Tree update
• Park Review

Martha Baldwin Park Board

The board will review park conditions, maintenance agreement terms, and a draft for an interpretive sign. The meeting also includes the welcome of new member Patrick Rock.

• Review of maintenance agreement terms
• Discussion of draft interpretive sign
• Update on Lebanese Cedar Tree
• Park review

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will discuss a design review for a proposed addition to the historic post office at 320 Martin St. The body will also hold a study session regarding Historic Design Guidelines and a CLG Grant.

• Historic Design Review for a 5-story addition at 320 Martin St. (United States Post Office)
• Study session on CLG Grant – Historic Design Guidelines
• Review of administrative sign approvals and demolitions
• Discussion of the 2021 Action List

The Historic District Commission voted 5-0 to postpone the historic design review for the United States Post Office at 320 Martin St. to its February 2, 2022 meeting. The commission also approved the minutes of the December 1, 2021 meeting and directed staff to request joint meetings with the Planning Board and City Commission. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of December 1, 2021 (5-0)
• Postponed historic design review for 320 Martin St. Post Office to Feb. 2, 2022 (5-0)
• Directed staff to request joint meetings with Planning Board and City Commission

Public Arts Board

The Board is reviewing locations for donated sculptures and planning the 2022 call for entry. Discussions focus on transitioning toward interactive art projects and specific site placements for new installations.

• Proposed 2022 call for entry: two artistic benches, painted crosswalks, and electrical box designs
• Proposed artistic bench locations: S. Old Woodward and Brown, and Pierce and Martin Street
• Proposed electrical box design location: N. Old Woodward and Hamilton Row
• Placement discussion for donated Marx sculptures "Untitled 1" and "Untitled 2" at Quarton Lake and Chesterfield Fire Station
• Review of $2,000 stipends for approved artists from the 2021 call for entry

The Public Arts Board approved a 2022 call for entry for two artistic benches, one electric box design, and one crosswalk design, with specific locations and funding tiers. They also recommended temporary installation of DIA Inside-Out artwork at six locations and pursuing an additional piece at the BBAC. The board discussed but did not finalize interactive art projects for 2022.

• Approved 2022 call for entry for two artistic benches, one electric box, and one crosswalk (6-0)
• Recommended DIA Inside-Out temporary installations at six locations and additional art at BBAC (6-0)
• Approved minutes of November 17, 2021 as amended (6-0)

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board will consider a sign application for a business at 34100 Woodward. The board will also hold a study session regarding updates to the Sign Ordinance.

• Sign review for Loan X Mortgage at 34100 Woodward (proposed 76 sq. ft. name letter sign)
• Study session for Sign Ordinance Update

The Design Review Board denied the sign review application for 34100 Woodward (Loan X Mortgage) but allowed the sign to be installed as-designed within the first-floor sign band, pending administrative approval. The board also approved the minutes from December 1, 2021, and discussed a sign ordinance update. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved DRB minutes of December 1, 2021 (6-0)
• Denied sign review application for 34100 Woodward – Loan X Mortgage (6-0)
• Allowed sign to be installed as-designed within sign band pending administrative approval (6-0)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will meet to consider four dimensional appeals from residents and a business. The board will also review minutes from the November 9, 2021 meeting.

• Dimensional appeal 21-51 for 1679 Dorchester (Mallor)
• Dimensional appeal 21-52 for 999 Twin Oaks (Slatkin)
• Dimensional appeal 21-54 for 227 Northlawn (Sklar)
• Dimensional appeal 21-55 for 34745 Woodward (BMW Car Wash LLC)

The Birmingham Board of Zoning Appeals approved variances for additions at 1679 Dorchester and 999 Twin Oaks, and partially approved a request at 227 Northlawn (granting one variance, denying another). The board denied Jax Kar Wash's appeal of a Planning Board screening condition and its alternative variance request for unscreened frontage along Woodward Avenue.

• Approved 4 variances for second-floor addition at 1679 Dorchester (7-0)
• Approved side yard setback variance at 999 Twin Oaks (7-0)
• Approved building separation variance at 227 Northlawn (7-0)
• Denied air conditioner side yard variance at 227 Northlawn (6-1)
• Denied appeal of Planning Board screening condition for Jax Kar Wash (3-4)
• Denied 47.75-foot screening variance for Jax Kar Wash (5-2)
• Approved November 9, 2021 meeting minutes as amended (7-0)

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting to decide on a zoning ordinance for wall art and a land use permit for Toast at 203 Pierce Street. The body will also discuss the 48th District Court budget and a settlement agreement regarding national opioid funds.

• Ordinance amendment to create a wall art definition and review process
• Warrant list approval in the amount of $578,072.41
• Special Land Use Permit Amendment for Toast at 203 Pierce Street
• Proposed sidewalk and streetscape improvements on Maple Road
• Adobe Creative Cloud license renewal for $8,443.26

The Birmingham City Commission approved an ordinance creating a wall art definition and review process, and approved a Special Land Use Permit amendment for Toast at 203 Pierce Street to change its hours of operation. The Commission also approved the 48th District Court FY 2022 budget and the Interlocal Agreement for court funding, along with several other routine items. A policy was adopted prohibiting commissioners from attending advisory board and committee meetings.

• Adopted wall art ordinance amendment (voice vote, unanimous)
• Approved Toast SLUP amendment for hours change (voice vote, 6-1, McLain nay)
• Approved 48th District Court FY 2022 budget (roll call, unanimous)
• Accepted 48th District Court Interlocal Agreement (roll call, unanimous)
• Amended 2022 fee schedule and adopted revised Public Records Policy (roll call, unanimous)
• Adopted policy barring commissioners from advisory board meetings (voice vote, 5-2, Haig and Host nays)
• Authorized City Manager to sign National Opioid Settlement Agreement (roll call, unanimous)
• Set public hearing dates for Maple Road sidewalk/streetscape assessment (roll call, unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a study session to review Chapter Two of the Birmingham Plan 2040 regarding managed growth. The board will also discuss comprehensive outdoor dining and potential end dates for outdoor dining.

• Review of Birmingham Plan 2040 Chapter Two (Embrace Managed Growth)
• Discussion on Outdoor Dining end date
• Discussion on Comprehensive Outdoor Dining

The Birmingham Planning Board voted 7-0 to recommend the City Commission approve ordinance amendments to remove temporal restrictions on outdoor dining patios in the public right-of-way and allow fixtures to stay outside overnight. The board also received and filed an email from Joe and Kristen Bongiovanni regarding outdoor dining, and discussed the Birmingham Plan 2040, including accessory dwelling units and future land use maps, without taking formal action.

• Approved minutes of November 10, 2021 meeting as amended (7-0)
• Recommended approval to City Commission of ordinance amendments to remove temporal restrictions on outdoor dining patios and allow fixtures to stay overnight (7-0)
• Received and filed email from Joe Bongiovanni regarding outdoor dining (7-0)

Parks and Recreation Board

The board will meet to discuss a staff report regarding the Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update. The meeting also includes a review of a letter from Bob Gibbs dated October 24, 2023.

• Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update staff report
• Letter from Bob Gibbs dated October 24, 2023

The Parks and Recreation Board voted unanimously to support Kenning Park as the proposed site for new pickleball courts, pending departmental review, and to forward the recommendation to the City Commission. The board also recommended proceeding with design development services, including construction drawings and bid documents, with Foresite Design, Inc. In a separate action, the board unanimously recommended approval of a three-year loan of the sculpture "Astral Projection" by Ray Katz for installation at Crestview Park near Southfield and Southlawn. No action was taken on the ice arena renovation update, golf course reports, or the ice show date discussion.

• Approved minutes of the November 9, 2021 regular meeting as amended (unanimous).
• Supported Kenning Park as proposed site for new pickleball courts, pending departmental review, and forwarded to City Commission (unanimous).
• Recommended proceeding with design development services including construction drawings and bid documents with Foresite Design, Inc. (unanimous).
• Recommended approval of the application for the sculpture on loan "Astral Projection" by Ray Katz at Crestview Park near Southfield and Southlawn (unanimous).

City Commission

The City Commission will consider a Community Development Block Grant application and a land use permit for Toast at 203 Pierce Street. The body will also vote on several routine contracts and a public hearing date for the Daxton Hotel.

• Proposed 2022-2023 Community Development Block Grant application totaling $36,912
• Contract for Dynamic Systems, Inc. to power wash downtown sidewalks not to exceed $66,300
• Emergency expenditure for Park Street Structure elevator repair by KONE Elevator not to exceed $22,765
• Special Land Use Permit Amendment for 203 Pierce Street (Toast) to amend hours of operation
• Proposed 'No Parking' zone for school days on Bird Ave. from Pierce to Edgewood

The Commission approved the 2022-2023 Community Development Block Grant application with $36,912 in allocations, a lease agreement with Water Tower Properties for parking spaces at 35046 Woodward Ave., and confirmed an emergency expenditure for Park Street Parking Structure elevator repair. It also set a public hearing for a liquor license transfer at the Daxton Hotel and continued two public hearings to December 13, 2021. The meeting included a closed session on pending litigation.

• Approved the 2022-2023 Community Development Block Grant application with $36,912 in allocations for yard services, senior services, and Museum Park accessibility.
• Approved a lease agreement with Water Tower Properties for parking spaces at 35046 Woodward Ave. (formerly Alban's Bottle & Basket).
• Confirmed the City Manager's emergency authorization for Park Street Parking Structure elevator repair by KONE Elevator, cost not to exceed $22,765.
• Set a public hearing for January 10, 2022, on a Special Land Use Permit Amendment for a liquor license transfer at 298 S. Old Woodward (Daxton Hotel).
• Continued a public hearing on wall art ordinance amendments to the December 13, 2021 meeting.
• Continued a public hearing on a Special Land Use Permit Amendment for 203 Pierce Street (Toast) to the December 13, 2021 meeting.
• Approved the consent agenda except for items A, D, E, and I, which were considered separately.
• Approved meeting minutes of November 22, 2021, with a correction to a name.

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a workshop session to discuss wayfinding. No formal actions will be taken during this meeting.

• Discussion on implementing or updating the existing Wayfinding Plan
• Discussion on gateway design at the north and south ends of Old Woodward
• Discussion on a uniform identification system for public parking facilities
• Discussion on citywide nomenclature, typography, and brand design

This was a workshop session with no formal actions taken. The Commission discussed wayfinding updates and city branding, including directing the rebranding committee to re-evaluate two logo studies and return with recommendations. No votes were held.

• No formal actions taken; workshop only
• Discussed directing rebranding committee to re-evaluate logo studies
• Discussed adding Communications Director Gamboa to AHGWC (proposed)
• Discussed updating wayfinding signs, including 'Gallery Row'

Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board

The board is meeting to review several sections of the cemetery's operational procedures, including burial rights and traffic regulations. Members will also discuss future policies regarding markers for persons of historical significance.

• Review of Section VII: Funerals, Internments & Disinterment
• Review of Section VIII: Burial Rights Policy
• Review of Section II: Conduct of Persons
• Review of Section III: Traffic Regulations
• Discussion of policy for markers for persons of historical significance

The Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board approved the October 1, 2021 meeting minutes as amended, with a 6-0 vote. The board reviewed several sections of the cemetery's operational procedures, offering revisions to the Conduct of Persons and Traffic Regulations sections, and requested further legal clarification on other sections. No final decisions were made on the policy revisions, as the City Clerk will integrate the board's suggestions and return a draft for further review.

• Approved the October 1, 2021 meeting minutes as amended (6-0 vote).
• Offered revisions to Section II (Conduct of Persons) and Section III (Traffic Regulations) for integration into a draft.
• Requested City Clerk to check with the City Attorney and Ms. Arcome on specific language in Sections VII and VIII.
• Agreed the Police Department should be notified prior to any military funeral with firearm discharges on cemetery grounds.
• Asked City Clerk to request additional trash receptacles from DPS.
• Asked City Clerk to inquire about how cremated remains are laid out in plots.

Museum Board

The Museum Board will discuss the Spring 2022 Heritage Zone Community Garden Project and receive updates on long-range planning. The board will also review the nomination of Greenwood Cemetery to the National Park Service Network to Freedom.

• Heritage Zone Community Garden Project for Spring 2022
• Nomination of Greenwood Cemetery to National Park Service Network to Freedom
• Update on Long Range Planning objectives

The Museum Board approved the November 4, 2021 minutes by a 6-0 vote. Members discussed plans for a spring community plant exchange event, which would promote the museum and its landscape history, reach new audiences, and increase Friends membership. The board agreed by consensus with long-range goals presented by the director, including reflecting the diversity of Birmingham's past and improving public access to grounds and collections. The director reported that ADA parking off Willits will qualify for $25,839 in CDBG funding for FY 2022/2023.

• Approved the minutes of November 4, 2021 (6 yeas, 0 nays)
• Discussed plans for a spring community plant exchange event, with future annual potential
• Agreed by consensus with long-range goals including diversity reflection and improved public access
• Noted ADA parking project off Willits will receive $25,839 in CDBG funding for FY 2022/2023

Advisory Parking Committee

The committee will review a survey comparing Birmingham's parking violation fines with seven other municipalities. Members will also discuss the monthly parking inventory and receive a parking system update.

• Review of 2021 Parking Violation Fine Survey
• Monthly Parking Inventory
• Parking System Update

The Advisory Parking Committee approved a motion to increase the number of monthly parking passes available, as proposed in the meeting agenda. The committee also approved the minutes from the September 1, 2021 meeting with an amendment, and the October 6, 2021 minutes as submitted. Discussions were held on parking fines and permit pricing, but no formal decisions were made on those topics.

• Approved the September 1, 2021 meeting minutes as amended (changing 'on Woodward between Maple and Brown or Chester' to 'downtown'), 7-0.
• Approved the October 6, 2021 meeting minutes as submitted, 7-0.
• Approved a motion to increase the current inventory of monthly parking passes to the proposed numbers in the agenda, 7-0.

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission is meeting to review a sign application for a business at 166 W. Maple. The body will also hold a study session regarding a CLG Grant for historic design guidelines.

• Sign review for Relay at 166 W. Maple (proposed 1.6 sq. ft. wall sign)
• Study session on CLG Grant – Historic Design Guidelines
• Postponed historic design review for 129-135 E. Maple – Maplewood East

The Historic District Commission approved the Historic Design Review application and issued a Certificate of Appropriateness for 166 W. Maple (Relay), finding it meets Secretary of the Interior's Standards 2, 9, and 10. The commission postponed the 129-135 E. Maple (Maplewood East) review to a date uncertain at the applicant's request. It also approved the November 17, 2021 minutes as submitted. No courtesy reviews were held.

• Approved 166 W. Maple sign review and issued Certificate of Appropriateness (7-0).
• Postponed 129-135 E. Maple (Maplewood East) review to a date uncertain (7-0).
• Approved HDC minutes of November 17, 2021 as submitted (7-0).
• Directed Planning Director to work with Mr. Lemberg on publicizing the Bates Street Historic District, starting with signage.
• Adjourned meeting at 7:21 p.m. (7-0).

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board will meet to discuss updates to the city's sign ordinance during a study session. The board will also review administrative approvals and miscellaneous business.

• Study session regarding Sign Ordinance Update
• Postponed design review for 34164 Woodward – Sun Medical

The Birmingham Design Review Board met on December 1, 2021, and approved the minutes from the November 17, 2021 meeting. The board voted 7-0 to postpone the design review for 34164 Woodward – Sun Medical to the January 5, 2022 meeting. No public hearings or sign reviews were held, and the sign ordinance update was only noted as a placeholder for future discussion. The meeting adjourned at 7:31 p.m.

• Approved the DRB minutes of November 17, 2021 as submitted, 7-0.
• Postponed the design review for 34164 Woodward – Sun Medical to the January 5, 2022 DRB meeting, 7-0.
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:31 p.m., 7-0.

City Commission

The City Commission will discuss the Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Audit Report and consider several appointments to the Board of Review. The body is also deciding on multiple infrastructure and service contracts, including sidewalk repairs and benefit consulting.

• Contract with Precision Concrete, Inc. for sidewalk program repair in the amount of $260,000.00
• Annual $49,000.00 contract with Gallagher Benefit Services, Inc. for benefit consulting
• Liquor license request for Casa Godi, LLC at 470 N Old Woodward
• Approval of 19 Verizon Wireless small cell equipment applications on DTE poles
• Proposed 2 hour time zone on Greenwood St. from Willits St. to Harmon St.

The Commission approved all 19 Verizon Wireless applications to install small cell equipment on DTE utility poles, including 7 that exceed the 45-foot height limit. It also approved appointments to the Board of Review, a sidewalk repair contract amendment, and a benefit consulting contract. The meeting included public comments requesting censure of Commissioner Baller, but no action was taken on that request.

• Approved Thomas Loafman to the Board of Review for a three-year term ending December 31, 2024.
• Approved Cynthia Rose to the Board of Review for a three-year term ending December 31, 2024.
• Approved Elicia Katrib to the Board of Review for a term ending December 31, 2023.
• Approved the consent agenda except items G, I, and J, including warrants totaling $1,703,617.38.
• Approved a permit-exempt 2-hour parking zone on Greenwood St. from Willits St. to Harmon St.
• Approved all 19 Verizon small cell applications, with 7 exceeding the 45-foot height limit.
• Approved a $260,000 amendment to the Sidewalk Trip Elimination Program contract with Precision Concrete, Inc.
• Approved a three-year, $49,000 annual contract with Gallagher Benefit Services for benefit consulting.

Design Review Board

The board will review a design application for a facade renovation and minor site changes to a commercial building at 2006 Cole St. The meeting also includes a study session regarding updates to the city's sign ordinance.

• Design review for 2006 Cole St. including a roof height increase to 34 ft. and a 270 sq. ft. rear addition
• Study session for Sign Ordinance Update
• Review of proposed lighting and landscaping for 2006 Cole St.
• Review of proposed materials for 2006 Cole St. including barnwood and fieldstone gabion walls

The Birmingham Design Review Board approved the design review application for 2006 Cole St., subject to conditions including non-fruit bearing ginkgo trees, non-cutoff light fixtures, and a capped masonry trash enclosure. The board also concurred with a staff recommendation to study updating the sign ordinance. No public hearings or sign reviews were held.

• Approved 2006 Cole St. design review with conditions (6-0)
• Approved minutes of November 3, 2021 (6-0)
• Concurred to study sign ordinance update
• Adjourned meeting at 7:29 p.m. (6-0)

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will consider a design review for a new four-story mixed-use building featuring 50 residential units and first-floor commercial space. The body will also hold a study session regarding historic design guidelines and a CLG Grant.

• Design review for 325 S. Eton – District Lofts Phase 3
• Study session on CLG Grant – Historic Design Guidelines
• Sign review
• Review of administrative sign and demolition reports

The Historic District Commission approved the Historic Design Review application and issued a Certificate of Appropriateness for the District Lofts Phase 3 project at 325 S. Eton, finding it meets the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. The motion carried 7-0. The commission also approved the minutes from the November 3, 2021 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included a courtesy review, a sign review, and a study session on a grant.

• Approved Historic Design Review and Certificate of Appropriateness for 325 S. Eton – District Lofts Phase 3 (7-0)
• Approved HDC minutes of November 3, 2021 (6-0)

Public Arts Board

The board is discussing the placement of loaned and donated sculptures and planning the 2022 Call for Entry. This includes reviewing site suitability for specific artworks and considering new types of interactive public art.

• Recommendation to install 'Astral Projection' by Ray Katz at Crestview Park
• Recommendation to install 'Weathered' by Helen Hierta at Fairway Trail and W. Lincoln Street
• Proposed donation of 'Untitled 1' and 'Untitled 2' by Sue Marx
• Proposed 2022 Call for Entry including artistic furniture and professional chalk art
• Artist stipends of $2,000 for approved 2021 Call for Entry sculptures

The Public Arts Board approved the October 20th, 2021 minutes by a 6-0 vote. The board postponed a decision on the location for Ray Katz's "Astral Projection" sculpture, choosing to wait for the Parks and Recreation Board's pickleball court decision. For the Marx family's two donated sculptures, the board narrowed preferred locations to two green spaces south of Oak Street near Quarton Lake, with staff to discuss with the owner. The board also discussed preliminary 2022 plans including artistic benches, painted crosswalks, and electrical box art, with staff to verify details for December.

• Approved October 20th, 2021 minutes (6 yeas, 0 nays)
• Postponed location decision for Ray Katz's "Astral Projection" pending Parks and Recreation Board pickleball decision
• Narrowed preferred locations for Marx family sculptures to two green spaces south of Oak Street near Quarton Lake
• Agreed to pursue artistic furniture at N. Old Woodward & Brown and Martin & Pierce Street locations
• Agreed to pursue painted crosswalk art, pending city verification
• Agreed to pursue electrical box art, possibly with a theme
• Agreed to pursue chalk artists as a special event separate from the call for entry
• Directed staff to verify requests and provide a rough draft for December's meeting

Board of Ethics

The Board of Ethics will meet to select a new chair and consider Advisory Opinion Request 2021-04. The board will also review minutes from the March 29, 2021 meeting.

• Selection of new chair
• Consideration of Advisory Opinion Request 2021-04
• Approval of March 29, 2021 minutes

The Board of Ethics unanimously approved the minutes and selected John Schrot as the new chair. The Board accepted the City Manager's designation to review advisory opinion request 2021-04, which concerned Commissioner Baller's writings. After discussion, the Board unanimously found that no incident involving racial or ethnic conflict occurred and that no hearing or advisory opinion was warranted. The Board also recommended that the City pursue a social media policy and guidance for public officials.

• Approved minutes of March 29, 2021 (unanimous)
• Elected John Schrot as new Chair (unanimous)
• Accepted City Manager's designation to review advisory opinion request 2021-04 (unanimous)
• Found no incident of racial/ethnic conflict occurred in Commissioner Baller case (unanimous)
• Determined no hearing or advisory opinion warranted in case 2021-04 (unanimous)
• Recommended City pursue social media policy and guidance for public officials (consensus)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a study session to review the introduction, future land use, and first chapter of the Birmingham Plan 2040. The board will also discuss outdoor dining. The agenda includes standing items for rezoning applications and site plan reviews.

• Study session for The Birmingham Plan 2040
• Discussion on outdoor dining
• Rezoning applications
• Special Land Use Permits
• Site Plan & Design Reviews

The Birmingham Planning Board held a study session on the draft Birmingham Plan 2040 master plan, discussing revisions but taking no formal action. The board voted to set a public hearing for December 8, 2021, to amend the zoning ordinance to allow outdoor dining patios and fixtures to remain year-round. A special meeting was also scheduled for December 16, 2021.

• Approved minutes of Oct. 27, 2021 meeting as amended (6-0)
• Set public hearing for Dec. 8, 2021 on removing seasonal restrictions on outdoor dining (7-0)
• Scheduled special meeting for Dec. 16, 2021 (7-0)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will meet to consider seven dimensional appeals for various properties. The board will also review minutes from the October 12, 2021 meeting.

• Dimensional appeal 21-42 for 791 N Eton
• Dimensional appeal 21-37 for 157 E Frank
• Dimensional appeal 21-47 for 1061 Forest
• Dimensional appeal 21-48 for 670 S Old Woodward
• Dimensional appeal 21-49 for 1759 Henrietta

The Birmingham Board of Zoning Appeals approved six variance requests for residential properties at 791 N. Eton, 157 E. Frank, 1061 Forest, 1759 Henrietta, 551 S. Bates, and 1679 Dorchester (postponed). The board denied a variance request for a salon/spa at 670 S. Old Woodward, which sought to use off-site parking at Adams Square Shopping Center. The board also approved the minutes of the October 12, 2021 meeting as amended.

• Approved variance for new home at 791 N. Eton (7-0)
• Approved driveway variances at 157 E. Frank (6-1)
• Approved 6-foot fence variance at 1061 Forest (7-0)
• Denied parking variance for salon at 670 S. Old Woodward (7-0)
• Approved second-floor addition variances at 1759 Henrietta (7-0)
• Approved patio variances at 551 S. Bates (7-0)
• Postponed appeal 21-51 for 1679 Dorchester
• Approved October 12, 2021 meeting minutes as amended (7-0)

Parks and Recreation Board

The board will consider requests to install two art donations on loan. The meeting also includes reports on the Birmingham Ice Sports Arena, golf course finances, and pickleball planning.

• Art on Loan application for "Weathered" by Helen Hierta
• Art on Loan application for "Astral Projection" by Ray Katz
• Birmingham Ice Sports Arena October 2021 Dashboard Report
• Golf Course Finance Report for September 2021
• Discussion on Pickleball 2.0

The Parks and Recreation Board recommended approval of a three-year loan of Helen Hierta's sculpture 'Weathered' for placement at Fairway Trail and W. Lincoln Street. The board postponed consideration of Ray Katz's 'Astral Projection' sculpture for Crestview Park until the Public Arts Board coordinates with city staff on pickleball court installation. No other substantive decisions were made; remaining agenda items were informational only.

• Recommended approval of 'Weathered' sculpture loan by Helen Hierta for 3 years at Fairway Trail and W. Lincoln Street (7-0)
• Postponed consideration of 'Astral Projection' sculpture loan by Ray Katz for Crestview Park until PAB coordinates with city staff on pickleball courts (7-0)

City Commission

The City Commission will administer oaths to elected officials and elect a Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem. The body will also consider several contracts for infrastructure and city services and a collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 214.

• Oak Street Bridge Project contract award to Z Contractors, Inc. for $155,019.00
• Tree Inventory Program agreement with Davey Resource Group, Inc. not to exceed $69,850
• Adams Park Concept Plan agreement with Michael J. Dul & Associates, Inc. based on minimum construction budget of $725,000
• Professional engineering services for Birmingham Museum Pond Zone for $17,460
• Proposed public hearings for 203 Pierce Street and wall art review process amendments

The Birmingham City Commission elected Therese Longe as Mayor and Pierre Boutros as Mayor Pro Tem, and approved recognizing Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a city holiday starting in 2022. The commission also approved several contracts, including the Oak Street Bridge repair and the Adams Park concept plan, and directed two bistro applications to the Planning Board.

• Elected Therese Longe as Mayor (voice vote, unanimous)
• Elected Pierre Boutros as Mayor Pro Tem (voice vote, unanimous)
• Approved recognizing Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a city holiday starting 2022 (roll call, unanimous)
• Approved $69,850 tree inventory update agreement with Davey Resource Group (roll call, unanimous)
• Awarded Oak Street Bridge repair to Z Contractors for $155,019 (roll call, unanimous)
• Accepted Adams Park Concept Plan and approved landscape architectural services (roll call, unanimous)
• Approved Teamsters Local 214 settlement and contract renewal through June 30, 2023 (roll call, unanimous)
• Approved 2.5% salary range adjustment for department heads and administrative/management employees (roll call, unanimous)

Museum Board

The Museum Board is meeting to establish its 2022 meeting schedule and receive updates on budget planning and long-range goals. The board will also discuss the Heritage Zone Community Garden project and barrier-free path and parking engineering designs.

• Heritage Zone Community Garden Project for Spring 2022
• Engineering Design Project for Barrier Free Path and Parking
• 2022 Meeting Schedule
• Upcoming Budget and Long Range Planning

The Birmingham Museum Board approved the minutes from October 7, 2021, and the proposed 2022 meeting schedule, both unanimously. The board also reviewed plans for a community perennial garden and discussed upcoming projects including ADA path design and window restoration.

• Approved minutes of October 7, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved 2022 meeting schedule (5-0)

Design Review Board

The board will discuss design review applications for properties on Woodward and Southfield. A primary focus is whether a proposed yellow paint element at 34164 Woodward constitutes a sign under city ordinance.

• Design review for 34164 Woodward – Sun Medical
• Design review for 201 Southfield – Multi Tenant Apartment Building
• Approval of minutes from July 21, September 1, and October 20, 2021

The Design Review Board approved a 68% visual light transmittance (VLT) for the Birmingham Colonial Building at 32333 Woodward Avenue, as permitted by Section 4.90(E) of the zoning ordinance, in a 7-0 vote. The board also approved the design review application for 201 Southfield with conditions, and postponed the sign request for 34164 Woodward to December 1, 2021. Minutes from three prior meetings were approved.

• Approved 68% VLT for Birmingham Colonial Building at 32333 Woodward Ave (7-0)
• Approved design review for 201 Southfield multi-tenant apartment building with conditions (7-0)
• Postponed sign request for 34164 Woodward to December 1, 2021 (7-0)
• Approved DRB minutes of July 21, 2021 (7-0)
• Approved DRB minutes of September 1, 2021 (7-0)
• Approved DRB minutes of October 20, 2021 (7-0)

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will discuss a sign application for Relay on a locally designated historic building. The body will also hold a study session regarding historic design guidelines and a CLG grant.

• Sign review for Relay at 166 W. Maple (proposed 3.3 sq. ft. name letter sign)
• Study session on CLG Grant – Historic Design Guidelines
• Approval of minutes from July 21, September 1, and October 20, 2021

The Historic District Commission approved minutes from three prior meetings and postponed a sign request for 166 W. Maple (Relay) to December 1, 2021, after discussion that the proposed location conflicted with historic standards. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included a study session on design guidelines and routine staff reports.

• Approved minutes of July 21, 2021 (7-0)
• Approved minutes of September 1, 2021 (7-0)
• Approved minutes of October 20, 2021 (7-0)
• Postponed sign review for 166 W. Maple - Relay to December 1, 2021 (7-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board is meeting to discuss a request to amend the hours of operation for Toast at 203 Pierce St. The board will also hold study sessions regarding outdoor dining and wall art.

• 203 Pierce St. (Toast): Request to amend hours of operation

The Birmingham Planning Board voted 7-0 to recommend approval to the City Commission of a Special Land Use Permit amendment and Final Site Plan Review for Toast at 203 Pierce St., setting minimum operating hours of 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends. The board also recommended zoning ordinance amendments to define wall art and require review by the Public Arts Board and Design Review Board. In a study session, the board discussed outdoor dining regulations, suggesting year-round outdoor dining with a possible winter prohibition and a public hearing on November 10, 2021.

• Approved minutes of October 13, 2021 meeting as amended (7-0)
• Recommended approval of SLUP amendment for Toast at 203 Pierce St. with minimum hours 8 a.m.-3 p.m. weekdays, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. weekends (7-0)
• Recommended approval of Final Site Plan Review for Toast at 203 Pierce St. with same minimum hours (7-0)
• Recommended zoning ordinance amendments to define wall art and require review process (7-0)
• Received and filed email from Birmingham Shopping District regarding Toast (7-0)

City Commission

The City Commission will hold public hearings regarding land use permits for businesses on Woodward and S. Old Woodward. The body is also deciding on several municipal contracts, infrastructure improvements, and city code amendments.

• Public hearing for a new food and drink establishment serving alcohol at 210 S. Old Woodward (Zana)
• Approval of warrant lists totaling $2,803,684.57
• Contract with Accuform Printing & Graphics, Inc. not to exceed $78,574.00
• DTE Purchase Agreement for LED lighting on Woodward Avenue median not to exceed $23,340.00
• Proposed increase of the City's total credit card limit to $25,000

The Birmingham City Commission approved the design concept for Phase 3 of the South Old Woodward project, directing staff to prepare detailed construction drawings. The Commission also approved several other items, including appointments to the Board of Zoning Appeals and Birmingham Shopping District Board, a special land use permit for Hazel's restaurant, and a special land use permit for a new food and drink establishment at 210 S. Old Woodward. Additionally, the Commission approved a DTE LED lighting upgrade on Woodward Avenue and authorized a pedestrian crosswalk flag system at Brown/Forest.

• Approved Phase 3 design concept for S. Old Woodward (6-1, Hoff dissenting)
• Appointed Erik Morganroth to Board of Zoning Appeals (unanimous)
• Appointed John Miller to Board of Zoning Appeals (unanimous)
• Concurred with appointments of Astrein, Roberts, Eid to Birmingham Shopping District Board (unanimous)
• Approved special event permit for Shain Park Menorah Lighting (unanimous)
• Approved GovPilot citizen concern module agreement, $6,500/year for 3 years (unanimous)
• Approved special land use permit for Hazel's name change (unanimous)
• Approved special land use permit for Zana at 210 S. Old Woodward (unanimous)

Design Review Board

The board will review design applications for three properties on Woodward Avenue. This includes a proposal for exterior modifications to the Comerica Bank building, including new glazing and lighting.

• Design review for 33101 Woodward (Comerica Bank) regarding glazing, lighting, and rooftop equipment
• Design review for 34164 Woodward (Sun Medical)
• Design review for 35106 Woodward (Whole Dental Wellness)

The Design Review Board approved design applications for 33101 Woodward (Comerica Bank) and 35106 Woodward (Whole Dental Wellness) with conditions, and postponed the application for 34164 Woodward (Sun Medical) to November 3, 2021 pending a to-scale rendering. All votes were 5-0.

• Approved Comerica Bank design at 33101 Woodward with conditions (5-0)
• Approved Whole Dental Wellness design at 35106 Woodward with conditions (5-0)
• Postponed Sun Medical design at 34164 Woodward to Nov 3, 2021 (5-0)

Historic District Commission

The commission is reviewing a design application for lighting and landscaping at the Baldwin Public Library. The body will also conduct design and sign reviews for properties on S. Old Woodward.

• Courtesy review for 300 W. Merrill (Baldwin Public Library) regarding 16 new lights and various plantings
• Historic design review for 210 S. Old Woodward (Zana)
• Historic design review for 255 S. Old Woodward

The Historic District Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for the Baldwin Public Library at 300 W. Merrill, with conditions including approval of non-cutoff light fixtures in the Children's Garden. It also approved design review applications for 210 S. Old Woodward (Zana) and 255 S. Old Woodward, each with specific conditions. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 300 W. Merrill – Baldwin Public Library (5-0)
• Approved Design Review for 210 S. Old Woodward – Zana (5-0)
• Approved Design Review for 255 S. Old Woodward (5-0)

Public Arts Board

The Public Arts Board is discussing the placement of art-on-loan sculptures from Helen Hierta and Ray Katz. The board is also reviewing a sculpture donation from Sue Marx.

• Proposed installation of Helen Hierta's 'Weathered' sculpture at W. Lincoln Road and Fairway Trail
• Review of seven steel sculptures by Ray Katz for potential loan
• Discussion of a sculpture donation from Sue Marx
• Review of July 21, 2021 meeting minutes

The Public Arts Board recommended approval of two art-on-loan applications: Helen Hierta's 'Weathered' at Fairway Trail and W. Lincoln Road, and Ray Katz's 'Astral Projection' at Crestview Park. Both motions passed unanimously (6-0). The board also discussed Sue Marx's sculpture donations and requested staff to explore locations.

• Approved minutes of July 21, 2021, as amended (6-0)
• Recommended approval of Helen Hierta's 'Weathered' sculpture at Fairway Trail and W. Lincoln Road (6-0)
• Recommended approval of Ray Katz's 'Astral Projection' sculpture at Crestview Park (6-0)
• Requested DPS install woodchips at the base of Hierta's sculpture
• Added Chesterfield Fire Station to potential public art locations

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a final site plan and design review for a car wash. The board will also hold a study session to receive and review the second draft of The Birmingham Plan 2040.

• Final Site Plan and Design Review for Jax Kar Wash at 34745 Woodward
• Study session for The Birmingham Plan 2040 2nd Draft

The Birmingham Planning Board approved the Final Site Plan and Design Review for Jax Kar Wash at 34745 Woodward, with conditions including a screening wall along the north side of the building at the east property line, designation of Brown Street as the frontage for signage, and removal of a curb cut. The vote was 4-3. The board also discussed the Birmingham Plan 2040 draft, requesting map improvements and scheduling future review meetings.

• Approved Final Site Plan & Design Review for Jax Kar Wash at 34745 Woodward (4-3)
• Required screening wall per Article 4, Section 4.54 of Zoning Ordinance
• Designated Brown Street as frontage for signage purposes
• Required stanchions changed to neutral color subject to administrative approval
• Required no curb cut at break in screening wall on north side
• Approved minutes of September 23, 2021 meeting as amended (5-0)
• Concurred with RH stairwell and window changes subject to administrative approval

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will consider several dimensional and use appeals for properties in Birmingham. One scheduled appeal for 1740 W Maple has been withdrawn.

• Dimensional appeal for 566 Ann (Nova Consultants)
• Dimensional appeal for 791 N Eton (Pandolfi)
• Dimensional appeal for 1974 Holland (Hillan Homes)
• Dimensional appeal for 1853 Fairview (Hillberg)
• Use appeal for 2549 Buckingham (Ortiz) and dimensional appeal for 1394 Westwood (Labelle)

The Birmingham Board of Zoning Appeals denied a variance for a 1,177-square-foot solar panel carport at 566 Ann, denied window well variances at 791 N. Eton, and tabled a sideyard variance for the same property. The board approved variances for a new home at 1974 Holland, A/C condenser replacement at 1853 Fairview, and a garage addition at 1394 Westwood. A use variance for a group home day care at 2549 Buckingham was denied.

• Denied 677 sq ft dimensional variance for solar carport at 566 Ann (7-0)
• Denied window well variances at 791 N. Eton (7-0)
• Tabled sideyard variance at 791 N. Eton to Nov 9 meeting (7-0)
• Approved 3.35 ft sideyard variance for new home at 1974 Holland (6-0)
• Approved 2.40 ft sideyard variance for A/C condensers at 1853 Fairview (7-0)
• Denied use variance for group home day care at 2549 Buckingham (6-1)
• Approved 2.19 ft setback variance at 1394 Westwood; denied withdrawn garage door variance (7-0)

City Commission

The City Commission and Planning Board are holding a joint workshop session to discuss problem definitions and desired outcomes. No formal decisions will be made during this meeting.

• Discussion on food trucks
• Discussion on outdoor dining
• 2040 Master Plan update

This was a joint workshop session with no formal decisions made. The Commission and Planning Board discussed food trucks, outdoor dining standards, and the 2040 Master Plan update, gathering input from each other and the public. No votes were taken, and all items remain under study.

• No formal decisions made; workshop session only
• Food trucks topic to be studied further, including operator interest
• Full enclosures for outdoor dining not supported; winter 2021-2022 options to be discussed at next meetings
• 2040 Master Plan second draft under review; public feedback accepted

Museum Board

The Museum Board is meeting to discuss the Heritage Zone Community Garden project planned for Spring 2022. The board will also conduct a review, planning session, and tour regarding the museum's Collections Policy.

• Heritage Zone Community Garden Project for Spring 2022
• Collections Policy review, planning, and tour
• Engineering study for ADA parking spot and pathways on Willits
• Planned application to the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom for Greenwood Cemetery

The Birmingham Museum Board met on October 7, 2021, and approved the minutes from September 2, 2021, with a unanimous vote. The board discussed the de-accession process outlined in the new Collection Policy, including the role of the Collections Subcommittee and the final approval authority of the City Commission. No formal decisions were made on de-accessions, as the subcommittee is expected to meet in the coming month. The board also received updates on the ADA parking study, website content, and a proposed Greenwood Cemetery designation application.

• Approved minutes of September 2, 2021 (6-0)
• Reviewed de-accession process; no action taken
• Discussed spring 2022 heritage garden event; plans deferred pending sign construction

Advisory Parking Committee

The Advisory Parking Committee will discuss a request to include 469-479 S. Old Woodward in the Parking Assessment District. The body will also review signage updates for the Pierce, Park, and Peabody parking structures.

• Request for 469-479 S. Old Woodward to join Parking Assessment District (staff recommends denial)
• Signage updates for Pierce, Park, and Peabody structures
• Proposed $3,070 quote from Metro Detroit Signs for Park Street Garage sign faces
• Construction update regarding S. Old Woodward

The Advisory Parking Committee could not reach a consensus on a request to include 469-479 S. Old Woodward in the Parking Assessment District (PAD), which staff said had expired. Multiple motions to approve, deny, or table the request failed, and the committee took no formal action. The committee did approve replacing parking signs at three structures using Option F.

• Approved replacement of parking signs at Pierce, Park, and Peabody structures using Option F (5-0)
• Motion to deny PAD inclusion for 469-479 S. Old Woodward failed for lack of a second
• Motion to approve PAD inclusion for 469-479 S. Old Woodward failed for lack of a second
• Motion to neither approve nor deny PAD application failed (2-3)
• Motion to recommend not relieving on-site parking requirements failed for lack of a second

Design Review Board

The Birmingham Design Review Board will meet to conduct design reviews for three businesses on Woodward Avenue. The board will also hold a public hearing and review sign applications.

• Design review for Comerica Bank at 33101 Woodward
• Design review for Sun Medical at 34164 Woodward
• Design review for Whole Dental Wellness at 35106 Woodward
• Public hearing
• Sign review

Historic District Commission

The Birmingham Historic District Commission is meeting to conduct design reviews for two properties on S. Old Woodward and a courtesy review for the Baldwin Public Library. The commission will also review signs and discuss pre-application items.

• Courtesy Review: 300 W. Merrill – Baldwin Public Library
• Historic Design Review: 210 S. Old Woodward – Zana
• Historic Design Review: 255 S. Old Woodward
• Sign Review

Parks and Recreation Board

The Parks and Recreation Board will discuss updates on the Birmingham Ice Sports Arena, Adams Park, and pickleball court locations. The board is also scheduled to determine meeting dates for 2022.

• Closure of Springdale Golf Course on October 14, 2021
• 2022 Parks and Recreation Board meeting dates
• Birmingham Ice Sports Arena construction update
• Pickleball location update
• Adams Park, Fire Station 2 Open Space, and Trail Sub-Committee updates

The Parks and Recreation Board approved the minutes of the September 14, 2021 meeting and the 2022 meeting dates as submitted, both unanimously. No other formal actions were taken; all other agenda items were informational discussions, including updates on Springdale Golf Course closing, pickleball site evaluations, Adams Park concept plan, Fire Station 2 open space, trail sub-committee, and the Birmingham Ice Sports Arena construction progress.

• Approved minutes of September 14, 2021 regular meeting (6-0)
• Approved 2022 Parks and Recreation Board meeting dates as submitted (6-0)

City Commission

The City Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a special assessment district for water and sewer laterals on Lakeview Ave. The body is also reviewing several land use permits and approving various equipment purchases and professional service contracts.

• Public hearing for Lakeview Ave Project #2-20(P) Water and Sewer Lateral Special Assessment District
• Proposed Special Land Use Permit Amendment for Dick O’ Dows at 160 W. Maple
• Purchase of three 2022 GMC Sierra 2500 HD 4x4 trucks for a maximum of $40,226.10 each
• Purchase of portable radios and desktop control stations from ComSource Inc. for $99,794.30
• Audit services contract award to Plante & Moran, PLLC for fiscal years 2022-2026

The Commission created a special assessment district for 30 parcels on Lakeview Ave for water and sewer lateral replacements, with a confirmation hearing set for Oct. 25. It also approved a special land use permit for Dick O'Dow's outdoor dining, adopted an ordinance requiring emergency power shutdown devices in new construction, and awarded audit and city attorney contracts.

• Created Lakeview Ave special assessment district for water/sewer laterals (unanimous)
• Approved Dick O'Dow's special land use permit with outdoor dining demarcation (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance requiring emergency power shutdown devices in new construction (unanimous)
• Awarded audit contract to Plante & Moran for FY 2022-2026 (unanimous)
• Appointed Beier Howlett as city attorney (6-1, Host opposed)
• Approved consent agenda including warrants, tree purchase, and radio purchase (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a workshop session to discuss Birmingham's public parking system. No formal actions will be taken during this meeting. The discussion will cover the legal use of parking funds and assessment districts.

• Review of Parking Assessment District terms
• Discussion on assessing new development in the Downtown Parking District for density increases
• Discussion on whether the Triangle District should have its own parking assessment district
• Review of legal opinion by Pat McGow of Miller Canfield regarding special assessments and impact fees
• Discussion on allowing residential use of public parking facilities

The City Commission held a workshop to discuss staff recommendations for the Unimproved Roads Program. No formal actions were taken. The discussion covered the process for prioritizing and improving unimproved streets, including resident interest, engineering factors, and a realistic pace of about 2.5 miles per year. Next steps include ordinance and procedural changes.

• Held a workshop session; no formal actions were taken.
• Discussed staff recommendations for the Unimproved Roads Program.
• Reviewed the process for soliciting resident interest in street improvements.
• Considered a realistic pace of improving 2.5 miles of roads per year.
• Discussed next steps, including ordinance changes and procedural recommendations.

Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board

The board is meeting to provide feedback on revisions to cemetery operational regulations and maintenance sections. Members will also discuss sidewalks and plan future business for November and December.

• Review of Section V. Operational Regulations
• Review of Section IV. Maintenance
• Discussion regarding sidewalks
• Approval of the 2022 GCAB Meeting Schedule

The Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board approved the 2022 meeting schedule, keeping 8:30 a.m. first-Friday meetings despite one member's preference for after-hours sessions. The board also discussed maintenance and operational regulations, asking the city clerk to consult the city attorney and staff on several points. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of August 6, 2021 (5-0, 2 abstentions)
• Approved 2022 GCAB meeting schedule (6-1)

Planning Board

The Birmingham Planning Board is meeting to review site plans and land use permits. The agenda includes requests for a new restaurant and updates to an existing car wash site.

• 210 S. Old Woodward (Zana): Request for Special Land Use Permit for food and drink establishment with alcoholic beverage sales
• 210 S. Old Woodward (Zana): Request for Final Site Plan and Design Review for interior/exterior changes
• 34745 Woodward (Jax Kar Wash): Request for Final Site Plan and Design Review for circulation, layout, and building changes
• Study session on Wall Art
• Study session on Outdoor Dining

The Birmingham Planning Board recommended approval to the City Commission for the Final Site Plan and Design Review for the new Zana restaurant at 210 S. Old Woodward, with conditions including revised sign plans and compliance with city departments. The board postponed the Final Site Plan and Design Review for Jax Kar Wash at 34745 Woodward to October 13, 2021, to allow the applicant to address concerns about screening, signage, and pedestrian safety. The board also granted a glazing waiver to Dick O'Dow's and set a public hearing for wall art ordinance amendments.

• Recommended approval for Zana restaurant final site plan and design review (6-0)
• Postponed Jax Kar Wash final site plan and design review to October 13, 2021 (5-0)
• Granted glazing waiver to Dick O'Dow's at 160 W Maple Rd (6-0)
• Set public hearing for wall art ordinance amendments on October 27, 2021 (6-0)
• Approved minutes of September 9, 2021 meeting as amended (4-0)

City Commission

The City Commission will vote on several infrastructure contracts and zoning amendments. The meeting includes public hearings regarding a land use permit for The Morrie and changes to zoning public notice requirements.

• Contract for Sewer Rehabilitation Program #8-21(S) with D.V.M. Utilities, Inc. for $1,045,323.50
• Contract with Pullman SST for work at Park, Peabody, and Chester parking structures for $523,800.00
• Public hearing for 260 N. Old Woodward (The Morrie) regarding an outdoor dining platform
• Proposed ordinance amendments to Chapter 126, Zoning, regarding public notice requirements
• Warrant list approval for payments totaling $36,958,844.23

The Birmingham City Commission approved a special land use permit amendment for The Morrie restaurant to add an outdoor dining platform on N. Old Woodward, and awarded contracts for parking structure repairs and sewer rehabilitation. It also made several appointments to city boards and commissions, and discussed the future of low-income housing at the Baldwin House.

• Approved Special Land Use Permit amendment for The Morrie outdoor dining deck (5-2)
• Awarded $523,800 contract to Pullman SST for Park, Peabody, and Chester parking structure repairs (unanimous)
• Awarded $1,045,323.50 contract to D.V.M. Utilities for 2021 Sewer Rehabilitation Program (unanimous)
• Approved amended contract with SP Plus Corporation for parking management services (unanimous)
• Adopted zoning ordinance amendments on public notice requirements (unanimous)
• Appointed Patrick Rock to Martha Baldwin Park Board (unanimous)
• Appointed Thomas Loafman to Historic District Study Committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Patricia Lang, John W. Henke III, and Gigi Debbrecht to Historic District Commission (unanimous)

Parks and Recreation Board

The board will discuss a revised concept plan for Adams Park, which includes updates to the play area, landscaping, and athletic facilities. Administration is seeking support for the plan and a recommendation to hire Michael J. Dul & Associates for design development services.

• 2021 Adams Park Concept Plan by Michael J. Dul and Associates
• Proposed Adams Park cost projections including $184,878 for garden area and $179,756 for furnishings
• Birmingham Ice Sports Arena construction update
• Pickleball location updates for five potential sites
• Golf Course Finance Report from July 2021

The Parks and Recreation Board voted unanimously to support the Adams Park Concept Plan dated August 30, 2021, as presented and endorsed by the South Poppleton Homeowner's Association, Birmingham Estates Homeowner's Association, and Roeper School, and to forward it to the City Commission for consideration. The board also recommended proceeding with design development services, including construction drawings and bid documents, with Michael J. Dul & Associates. No action was taken on other agenda items, which included updates on pickleball, trails, the ice arena, and golf course finances.

• Approved minutes of August 10, 2021 meeting as amended (7-0)
• Supported Adams Park Concept Plan dated August 30, 2021 and forwarded to City Commission (7-0)
• Recommended proceeding with design development services with Michael J. Dul & Associates (7-0)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will consider six appeals regarding property dimensions and zoning interpretations. The board will also review minutes from July and August 2021.

• Dimensional appeal for 689 Westwood (21-29)
• Dimensional appeal for 448 Willits (21-35)
• Dimensional appeal for 157 E Frank (21-37)
• Dimensional appeal for 1222 Cole (21-38)
• Dimensional appeal for 1159 E Maple (21-39)

The Birmingham Board of Zoning Appeals approved four variance requests and tabled one. Approved: a 3.48-foot side yard setback variance for an addition at 689 Westwood (7-0); roof overhang variances at 448 Willits (7-0); a 1.10-foot variance for A/C condenser placement at 1222 Cole (7-0); and a 7.94% front open space variance for a driveway replacement at 1159 E. Maple (7-0). The board tabled the driveway variance request for 157 E. Frank to October 2021, asking the owner for more detailed plans and possible hardscape reduction.

• Approved 3.48-ft side yard setback variance for addition at 689 Westwood (7-0)
• Approved roof overhang variances at 448 Willits (7-0)
• Tabled driveway variance at 157 E. Frank to October 2021 (7-0)
• Approved 1.10-ft variance for A/C condenser placement at 1222 Cole (7-0)
• Approved 7.94% front open space variance for driveway at 1159 E. Maple (7-0)
• Approved August 10, 2021 minutes as amended (6-0)

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a workshop to discuss staff recommendations for the Unimproved Roads Program. No formal actions will be taken at this meeting. Discussions will cover project initiation, road materials, funding, and billing procedures.

• Proposal to change project initiation to be City-led rather than homeowner-led
• Recommendation to use concrete for new improved streets with asphalt as an alternative
• Discussion of 'pay-as-you-go' funding using General Fund transfers for roads and bonds for water/sewer
• Review of billing where homeowners pay 85% of road costs and the City pays 15%
• Proposal to prioritize street improvements using an infrastructure rating system

This was a workshop session only; no formal actions were taken. The Commission discussed staff recommendations for the Unimproved Roads Program, including a proposed pace of improving 2.5 miles of roads per year, soliciting resident interest in Summer 2022, and potential ordinance and procedural changes. Public comment included resident experiences with petition processes and questions about bonding, sewer capacity, and underground utilities.

• No formal actions taken (workshop session only)

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a workshop to discuss staff recommendations for the Unimproved Roads Program. No formal actions will be taken at this meeting. Discussions will cover project initiation, road materials, funding, and billing procedures.

• Proposal to change project initiation to be City-led rather than homeowner-led
• Recommendation to use concrete for new improved streets with asphalt as an alternative
• Discussion of 'pay-as-you-go' funding using General Fund transfers for road components
• Review of billing where homeowners pay 85% of road costs and the City pays 15%
• Proposal to prioritize projects using an infrastructure rating system

This was a workshop session only; no formal actions were taken. Staff presented recommendations for moving forward with the Unimproved Roads Program, including soliciting resident interest in Summer 2022 and improving about 2.5 miles of roads per year. The Commission discussed criteria for prioritizing streets, sewer and water pipe conditions, and next steps involving ordinance and procedural changes.

• No formal actions were taken; the meeting was a workshop session for discussion only.
• Staff presented recommendations for the Unimproved Roads Program, including resident expression of interest in Summer 2022 and a realistic pace of 2.5 miles of road improvements per year.
• Next steps discussed include City Attorney Kucharek recommending ordinance changes and Consulting City Engineer Surhigh recommending procedural changes.
• Commissioners discussed whether resident enthusiasm should influence street improvement timing and whether health, safety, and welfare conditions should weigh more heavily in rankings.
• Public comment included resident experiences with petition processes, suggestions about concrete repairs, climate change impacts on storm calculations, and questions about bonding and utility lines.

Planning Board

The Planning Board is reviewing site plans and a community impact study for a new four-story mixed-use building. The board will also consider design changes for existing businesses and hold a study session on outdoor dining.

• 245 – 325 S. Eton Street (District Lofts Phase III): Request for Community Impact Study and Preliminary Site Plan approval for a four-story mixed-use building
• 34745 Woodward Avenue (Jax Car Wash): Request for Final Site Plan & Design Review for circulation and layout changes
• 525 E. Brown (Birmingham Roast): Request for Design Review for changes to existing outdoor dining area
• Study session regarding Outdoor Dining

The Birmingham Planning Board postponed the final site plan and design review for Jax Kar Wash at 34745 Woodward Avenue to September 23, 2021, after the applicant said the presented plans were not the final submitted ones. The board also postponed the design review for 525 E. Brown (Birmingham Roast) to February 23, 2022, as the applicant now seeks approval for the 2022 outdoor dining season. The board approved the Community Impact Study and Preliminary Site Plan for District Lofts Phase III at 245-325 S. Eton Street, with conditions including a public access easement, street trees and lights, and a Special Land Use Permit for commercial space. The board also held a study session on outdoor dining standards, discussing various design and regulatory options.

• Postponed design review for 525 E. Brown (Birmingham Roast) to Feb 23, 2022 (7-0)
• Postponed final site plan review for Jax Kar Wash at 34745 Woodward Ave to Sep 23, 2021 (6-1)
• Approved Community Impact Study for 325 S. Eton with conditions (7-0)
• Approved Preliminary Site Plan for 325 S. Eton with conditions (7-0)
• Received and filed F&V letter dated Sep 8, 2021 (7-0)

Museum Board

The Museum Board will review planning for the board's roles and expectations. The body is also discussing the Heritage Zone Community Garden Project scheduled for Spring 2022.

• Heritage Zone Community Garden Project-Spring, 2022
• Museum Board Review and Planning

The Museum Board approved the minutes from its July 1, 2021 meeting. Members discussed a planned spring 2022 community garden event for the Heritage Zone garden bed, with a member offering a contact experienced in plant exchanges. The board also discussed future public engagement ideas, including events, social media, and technology. The museum was notified it will receive an award from the Historical Society of Michigan for institutional excellence.

• Approved the minutes of July 1, 2021 (motion by Logue, seconded by Keefer; 5 yeas, 0 nays)
• Discussed planned spring 2022 community garden event for Heritage Zone garden bed
• Discussed public engagement ideas including events, social media, technology, and printed media
• Received printed manuals including the Strategic Plan, Landscape Master Plan, and Collections Policy
• Noted the museum will receive an award from the Historical Society of Michigan for institutional excellence

Advisory Parking Committee

The committee will discuss outdoor dining and conduct a final site plan and design review for 260 N. Old Woodward. The meeting also includes the introduction of new member Sarshar Nasserian.

• Final Site Plan & Design Review for 260 N. Old Woodward
• Outdoor Dining Review

Design Review Board

The board will meet to conduct design and sign reviews and hold a public hearing. The agenda is primarily procedural and does not list specific projects or applicants for this date.

• Public hearing
• Design review
• Sign review

The Design Review Board approved the minutes of the August 4, 2021 HDC meeting (5-0, with one abstention). No public hearings, design reviews, sign reviews, or study sessions were held. The board discussed a pre-application for 35106 Woodward, recommending the applicant undergo a design review for exterior changes in addition to signage review. The meeting adjourned at 7:52 p.m.

• Approved HDC minutes of August 4, 2021 (5-0, Kolo abstained)
• Recommended 35106 Woodward applicant for design review of exterior changes
• Adjourned meeting at 7:52 p.m. (6-0)

Historic District Commission

The commission will discuss a design review for façade renovations and outdoor dining changes at 160 W. Maple. The meeting also includes a study session on promoting historic preservation.

• Design review for 160 W. Maple (Dick O’ Dows) regarding façade renovations and outdoor dining
• Study session on Promoting Historic Preservation
• Review of administrative sign and demolition reports
• Approval of August 4, 2021 and July 21, 2021 meeting minutes

The Historic District Commission approved the design review application for 160 W. Maple (Dick O' Dows) with conditions, including submitting glazing calculations and specification sheets. The commission also discussed historic preservation promotion measures and directed the city planner to proceed with planning their implementation. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved design review for 160 W. Maple – Dick O' Dows with conditions (6-0)
• Directed city planner to proceed with planning historic preservation measures (consensus)

Planning Board

The Birmingham Planning Board is reviewing design and site plan changes for businesses on W. Maple and E. Brown. The board will also consider a site plan extension for 469–479 S. Old Woodward.

• 160 W. Maple (Dick O’Dows): Special Land Use Permit Amendment and Revised Final Site Plan for building design and outdoor dining
• 525 E. Brown (Birmingham Roast): Design Review for outdoor dining area changes
• 469–479 S. Old Woodward: Request to extend Final Site Plan expiring September 23, 2021
• Old Woodward Reconstruction Project, Phase 3 (Brown to Landon): Courtesy Review

The Birmingham Planning Board recommended approval to the City Commission for a Special Land Use Permit and Final Site Plan for 160 W. Maple (Dick O'Dows), allowing building design changes and a new outdoor dining plan, with conditions. The board also postponed design review for 525 E. Brown (Birmingham Roast) and postponed the Community Impact Study and Preliminary Site Plan reviews for District Lofts Phase III to September 9, 2021. Additionally, the board extended the Final Site Plan for 469-479 S. Old Woodward for one year and approved three non-cutoff light fixtures for All Seasons.

• Recommended approval of Special Land Use Permit for 160 W. Maple (Dick O'Dows) with conditions (7-0)
• Recommended approval of Final Site Plan & Design Review for 160 W. Maple (Dick O'Dows) with conditions (7-0)
• Postponed design review for 525 E. Brown (Birmingham Roast) to September 9, 2021 (7-0)
• Postponed Community Impact Study review for 245-325 S. Eton Street (District Lofts Phase III) to September 9, 2021 (7-0)
• Postponed Preliminary Site Plan review for 245-325 S. Eton Street (District Lofts Phase III) to September 9, 2021 (7-0)
• Extended Final Site Plan for 469-479 S. Old Woodward for one year (7-0)
• Approved three non-cutoff light fixtures for All Seasons (7-0)
• Approved minutes of August 11, 2021 meeting (7-0)

Historic District Study Committee

The committee is meeting to review updates regarding the Wallace Frost and Heritage Home inventories. The session will also include a review of the committee's priority list.

• Wallace Frost Inventory Update
• Heritage Home Inventory Update
• HDSC priority list review

The Historic District Study Committee voted 5-0 to keep Paul Beshouri as chair and approved the minutes from February 3, 2020. Members assigned themselves to photograph homes for the Wallace Frost and Heritage Home inventories, with a goal of completing photos in three weeks. The committee also discussed a possible walking tour of Heritage Homes and asked the city planner to draft an updated priority list for the next meeting.

• Approved keeping Paul Beshouri as chair, 5-0.
• Approved the February 3, 2020 minutes, 4-0 with one abstention.
• Assigned members to photograph Wallace Frost homes, with a three-week completion goal.
• Assigned members to photograph Heritage Homes by map area.
• Discussed creating a walking tour of Heritage Homes.
• City planner to draft an updated HDSC priority list for the next meeting.

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting to award a road paving contract and approve several emergency infrastructure repairs. The body will also set public hearings for zoning amendments and a special land use permit for outdoor dining.

• Townsend and Peabody Street Paving Project award to DiPonio Contracting, Inc. for $1,154,870.95
• Public hearing for outdoor dining platform at 260 N. Old Woodward (The Morrie)
• Public hearing for zoning amendments to Chapter 126 regarding public notice requirements
• Emergency sewer repair on W. Maple Road at Henrietta Street not to exceed $6,650.00
• Emergency repair of Quarton Dam auxiliary spillway gate lifting mechanism not to exceed $17,150.00

The Birmingham City Commission awarded a $1,154,870.95 contract to DiPonio Contracting, Inc. for the Townsend and Peabody Street Paving Project, with funding from multiple city funds. The commission also made several appointments to the Advisory Parking Committee, approved a 4-way stop control at Ferndale and Ravine, and moved Precinct 6's polling location to Baldwin Public Library. Several items were postponed or revised, including the Managed Assigned Counsel Coordinator agreement and the SP+ Corporation contract.

• Awarded $1,154,870.95 paving contract to DiPonio Contracting (unanimous, Baller absent)
• Appointed Richard Astrein to Advisory Parking Committee (6-1, Host nay)
• Appointed Sarshar Nasserian to Advisory Parking Committee (5-2, Hoff and Host nays)
• Appointed Algirdas Vaitas to Advisory Parking Committee (unanimous)
• Approved 4-way stop control at Ferndale and Ravine and stop sign on Brookside (unanimous)
• Moved Precinct 6 polling location to Baldwin Public Library (unanimous)
• Approved 2021 Santa House special event permit (unanimous)
• Postponed SP+ Corporation contract until redline provided (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding amendments to the city's zoning ordinance. The board is also reviewing a request for a new outdoor dining plan at 260 N. Old Woodward.

• Public hearing on ordinance to amend Chapter 126, Zoning, regarding public notice requirements
• Special Land Use Permit Amendment for outdoor dining at 260 N. Old Woodward (The Morrie)
• Final Site Plan & Design Review for outdoor dining at 260 N. Old Woodward (The Morrie)
• Study session on Outdoor Dining
• Study session on Wall Art

The Birmingham Planning Board recommended approval of a Special Land Use Permit Amendment and Final Site Plan for outdoor dining at 260 N. Old Woodward (The Morrie), with conditions including a reduced deck size and a possible sunset date. The board also recommended zoning ordinance amendments to adjust public notice requirements for site plan reviews. A study session discussed potential changes to outdoor dining regulations and wall art rules.

• Approved minutes of July 28, 2021 as amended (6-0)
• Recommended ordinance amendments to Article 7, Sections 7.01 and 7.29 to the Commission (6-0)
• Recommended approval of SLUP Amendment for outdoor dining at 260 N. Old Woodward with conditions (7-0)
• Recommended approval of Final Site Plan for outdoor dining at 260 N. Old Woodward with conditions (7-0)
• Scheduled special meeting for September 9, 2021 for study session and land permit hearing (7-0)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will meet to consider four dimensional appeals for residential properties. The board will also review minutes from June and July 2021.

• Dimensional appeal 21-29: 689 Westwood (Mackenzie)
• Dimensional appeal 21-30: 282 Greenwood (Jacobs)
• Dimensional appeal 21-34: 1135 Maryland (Morgan)
• Dimensional appeal 21-36: 375 Lake Park (Heller)

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved variances for properties at 282 Greenwood, 1135 Maryland, and 375 Lakepark, and tabled a request for 689 Westwood pending additional information. The June 8, 2021 minutes were approved; July 13, 2021 minutes were deferred due to lack of quorum.

• Approved variances for deck and impervious surface at 282 Greenwood (4-3)
• Approved front yard and porch variances at 1135 Maryland (7-0)
• Approved front yard and dormer variances at 375 Lakepark (7-0)
• Tabled variance request for 689 Westwood to September 2021 (7-0)
• Approved June 8, 2021 minutes (5-0)
• Deferred July 13, 2021 minutes to September 2021

Parks and Recreation Board

The Parks and Recreation Board will discuss a recommendation to create a sitting area, landscaping, and play equipment on a 0.5-acre space next to Fire Station #2. The board will also receive updates on the Birmingham Ice Sports Arena construction and golf course finances.

• Recommendation for open space and renaming at Chesterfield Fire Station #2
• Birmingham Ice Sports Arena construction update
• Golf Course Finance Report for June 2021
• Updates on Pickleball and Adams Park

The Parks and Recreation Board approved a request to develop conceptual drawings with costs for a proposed sitting area, landscaping, Little Library, and play equipment for younger children at the Chesterfield open space next to Fire Station #2, located north of West Maple, west of Fairfax. The motion passed unanimously (7-0) and could include future naming rights with final approval from the City Commission. No other substantive decisions were made; other agenda items were informational only.

• Approved conceptual drawings with costs for Chesterfield open space improvements (7-0)
• Approved minutes of July 13, 2021 regular meeting (7-0)

City Commission

The City Commission will hold public hearings regarding a new mixed-use building for Restoration Hardware and a special assessment for the Townsend Street paving project. The body is also reviewing several board appointments and routine event permits.

• Special Land Use Permit and Final Site Plan for a 4-story mixed-use building at 300-394 S. Old Woodward
• Confirmation of Special Assessment Roll No. 895 for Townsend Street Paving Project #6-21 (P)
• Contract extension for Precision Concrete, Inc. in the amount of $125,000.00
• Creation of an Indigent Defense Fund with $532,550 in intergovernmental revenue
• Liquor license requests for Whistle Stop Diner, Inc. (501 S. Eton St) and RH F&B Michigan, LLC

The Birmingham City Commission approved a Special Land Use Permit and Final Site Plan for a new 4-story mixed-use building at 300-394 S. Old Woodward, including a Restoration Hardware store with a restaurant and liquor license. The approval includes a condition requiring the underground parking area to be used for public parking or valet services. The Commission also confirmed a special assessment for the Townsend Street paving project and made several appointments to city boards.

• Approved Special Land Use Permit and Final Site Plan for Restoration Hardware building at 300-394 S. Old Woodward (unanimous)
• Confirmed Special Assessment Roll No. 895 for Townsend Street paving project (unanimous)
• Appointed Thomas Guastello to Corridor Improvement Authority (unanimous)
• Appointed Amanda Fishburn to Multi-Modal Transportation Board (unanimous)
• Appointed Jay R. Shell to Museum Board (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $8.7M in warrants and liquor license transfer for Whistle Stop Diner (unanimous)
• Approved special event permit for Legends of Tomorrow gala at Townsend Hotel (unanimous)

Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board

The Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board will discuss operational procedures regarding lot sales and resale policies. The board is also reviewing the 2020-2021 Annual Report and planning future policy updates for historical markers.

• Review of Section IX Lot Sales – Payment Plan Policy
• Review of Section X Lot Resale Policy
• Review of the DRAFT 2020-2021 Annual Report
• Approval of the 2022 GCAB Meeting Schedule
• Discussion of policies for markers for persons of historical significance

The Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board re-elected Linda Buchanan as Chair and Linda Peterson as Vice-Chair, both unanimously. The board approved the July 9, 2021 minutes and the corrected 2020-2021 Annual Report. It tabled discussion on the 2022 meeting schedule to September and recommended no changes to the Lot Sales Payment Plan Policy, but flagged the Lot Resale Policy for review with the City Attorney.

• Re-elected Linda Buchanan as Chair (5-0)
• Re-elected Linda Peterson as Vice-Chair (5-0)
• Approved July 9, 2021 minutes (4-0, Suter abstained)
• Accepted corrected 2020-2021 Annual Report (4-0)
• Tabled 2022 meeting schedule discussion to September 2021
• Recommended no changes to Section IX Lot Sales Payment Plan Policy
• Agreed to ask Cherie Arcome to request Elmwood remove greenwoodhistoriccemetery.org website

Museum Board

The Museum Board will meet to elect a Chair for the remainder of the fiscal year. The board will also discuss the Heritage Zone Community Garden Project for Spring 2022 and conduct a board orientation.

• Election of Chair
• Heritage Zone Community Garden Project-Spring, 2022
• Museum Board Orientation and Review

The Birmingham Museum Board elected Marty Logue as Chair and approved the July 1, 2021 minutes. The board discussed the community garden component of the Heritage Zone project, with plans to gather plant donations from residents and guidance from landscape architect Brian Devlin. Director Pielack will bring written ideas for further discussion at the September meeting. Member Jacquie Patt announced she is stepping down from the board due to moving out of Birmingham.

• Appointed Marty Logue as Chair (5-0)
• Approved minutes of July 1, 2021 (5-0)
• Discussed community garden for Heritage Zone; Director to bring written ideas to September meeting

Advisory Parking Committee

The committee will review invitations to bid for repairs to the N. Old Woodward, Park, Peabody, and Chester parking structures. The meeting also includes design reviews for outdoor dining at two locations and a review of parking structure signage.

• Invitation to Bid Review for N. Old Woodward Structure
• Invitation to Bid Review for Park, Peabody and Chester Structures
• Design Review for outdoor dining at 135 Pierce
• Design Review for outdoor dining at 115 Willits
• Review of Parking Structure Exterior Signage

The Advisory Parking Committee approved outdoor dining decks for Planthropie at 135 Pierce (5-2) and Mare at 115 Willits (5-2), with conditions and noted concerns. The committee also approved proceeding with invitations to bid for repairs to the N. Old Woodward, Park, Peabody, and Chester parking structures, and discussed signage repairs and EV charging stations.

• Approved outdoor dining deck for Planthropie at 135 Pierce, contingent on extended hours (5-2)
• Approved outdoor dining deck for Mare at 115 Willits (5-2)
• Approved proceeding with invitation to bid for N. Old Woodward Structure repairs (7-0)
• Approved proceeding with invitation to bid for Park, Peabody, and Chester Structures repairs (7-0)
• Approved minutes of June 16, 2021 meeting (6-0)

Design Review Board

The board will review a proposal to increase storefront glazing at 33233 Woodward (Birmingham Colonial) from 18% to 62%. The Planning Division recommends approval provided the applicant submits glass specification sheets confirming a minimum 80% visible light transmittance.

• Design review for storefront glazing modifications at 33233 Woodward
• Proposed increase of storefront glazing from 18% to 62%
• Review of administrative sign and project approvals

The Design Review Board approved the design review application for 33233 Woodward (Birmingham Colonial) with conditions, including 62% glazing and a minimum 80% visible light transmittance (VLT) for proposed glass. The board also deferred approval of the July 21, 2021 minutes due to lack of quorum, and adjourned without other substantive decisions.

• Approved 33233 Woodward design review with 62% glazing and VLT conditions (6-0)
• Deferred July 21, 2021 minutes approval to September 1, 2021 meeting
• Adjourned meeting at 7:44 p.m. (6-0)

Historic District Commission

The commission is reviewing design applications for façade renovations at 160 W. Maple and 271 W. Maple. The proposal for Dick O’ Dows includes a new outdoor dining area, a black awning, and the restoration of existing signage.

• Design review for façade renovations at 160 W. Maple (Dick O’ Dows)
• Design review for 271 W. Maple (Tender)
• Proposed 3 ft. 4 in. awning projection into the W. Maple right-of-way
• Review of proposed outdoor dining area at 160 W. Maple

The Historic District Commission approved the historic design review for 271 W. Maple (Tender) with a condition allowing awning projections into the right-of-way, voting 6-0. The review for 160 W. Maple (Dick O' Dows) was postponed to the September 1, 2021 meeting due to incomplete materials, also 6-0. Minutes from the July 21 meeting were not voted on due to lack of quorum.

• Approved historic design review for 271 W. Maple – Tender with condition for awning projections (6-0)
• Postponed historic design review for 160 W. Maple – Dick O' Dows to September 1, 2021 (6-0)
• Deferred vote on July 21, 2021 minutes due to lack of quorum

Planning Board

The Birmingham Planning Board is reviewing several site plans and design requests. The board will consider a new three-story mixed-use building and various modifications to existing businesses and cemeteries.

• Preliminary Site Plan Review for a new three-story mixed-use building at 460 N. Old Woodward (Junior League Building)
• Special Land Use Permit Amendment for expanded outdoor dining at 325 S. Old Woodward (Adachi Restaurant)
• Final Site Plan and Design Review for a building addition and new patios at 2425 E. Fourteen Mile Road (Clover Hill Cemetery)
• Design Review for outdoor dining changes at 525 E. Brown (Birmingham Roast)

The Birmingham Planning Board approved a final site plan for a building addition and new patios at Clover Hill Cemetery (2425 E. Fourteen Mile Road) with a condition to submit rooftop unit specifications. The board postponed the special land use permit amendment for Adachi Restaurant (325 S. Old Woodward) indefinitely and postponed design review for Birmingham Roast (525 E. Brown) to August 25, 2021. It also approved a preliminary site plan for a new three-story mixed-use building at 460 N. Old Woodward (Junior League Building) with conditions.

• Approved final site plan for Clover Hill Cemetery addition and patios, with condition on rooftop unit specs (7-0)
• Postponed Adachi Restaurant outdoor dining SLUP amendment indefinitely (7-0)
• Postponed Birmingham Roast outdoor dining design review to August 25, 2021 (5-2)
• Approved preliminary site plan for 460 N. Old Woodward mixed-use building, with conditions (7-0)
• Approved minutes of July 14, 2021 meeting as amended (6-0)
• Concurred with administrative approvals for EM Bistro and Shift/Sidecar/Slice, with pedestrian clearance condition

City Commission

The City Commission will consider several zoning amendments regarding solar electric systems and window glazing standards. The body is also deciding on a special land use permit for a bistro and discussing a paving project.

• Public hearing for a bistro special land use permit and site plan at 501 S. Eton
• Proposed zoning amendments for window glazing standards and roof-mounted solar electric systems
• Purchase of two Chevrolet Tahoes ($45,893 and $39,885) and one Ford Transit Cargo Van ($25,690)
• Contract extension for pavement markings with Hart Pavement Striping Corporation for $107,000
• Approval of warrant lists totaling $792,651.95 and $976,399.27

The Commission approved the Special Land Use Permit, Final Site Plan and Design Review for 501 S. Eton (Whistle Stop) to operate as a bistro, with a 6-1 vote. The Commission also approved several appointments, vehicle purchases, and zoning ordinance amendments. A public hearing on window and glazing standards was continued, with the Planning Board directed to re-review the language.

• Approved Whistle Stop bistro special land use permit, final site plan and design review (6-1)
• Appointed Linda Peterson, George Stern, and Laura Schreiner to Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board (unanimous)
• Appointed Bev Erickson and Alexandra Harris to Museum Board (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe police vehicle for $45,893 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe police vehicle for $39,885 (unanimous)
• Approved outside agency agreements for police FY 21-22 totaling $22,500 (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 2352 removing Roof Mounted Solar Electric Systems from sign ordinance (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 2353 adding amended Roof Mounted Solar Electric Systems language (unanimous)

Historic District Study Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss updates to the Wallace Frost and Heritage Home inventories. The agenda also includes a review of the committee's priority list.

• Wallace Frost Inventory Update
• Heritage Home Inventory Update
• HDSC priority list

The July 22, 2021 meeting of the Historic District Study Committee was cancelled because a quorum was not present. No decisions were made or items discussed.

Design Review Board

The board will meet to conduct design and sign reviews and hold a public hearing. The agenda consists of standard procedural items and staff reports.

• Public hearing
• Design review
• Sign review

The Design Review Board held a pre-application discussion about a mural painted without a permit on Henry Bikes at 33744 Woodward. Board members agreed the design was aesthetically pleasing but qualified as a sign, which is not allowed on buildings. No formal decision was made; the owner may pursue a variance from the Board of Zoning Appeals. The board approved the minutes of the July 7, 2021 meeting and adjourned.

• Approved minutes of July 7, 2021 meeting (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:53 p.m. (5-0)

Historic District Commission

The commission will conduct historic design and sign reviews. The meeting includes a study session focused on NAPC CAMP Commissioner Training and promoting historic preservation.

• NAPC CAMP Commissioner Training study session
• Promoting Historic Preservation study session
• Historic Design Review
• Sign Review

The Historic District Commission held a study session on commissioner training and promoting historic preservation, deciding to continue the discussion at its October 6, 2021 meeting and invite Historic District Study Committee members. The commission also approved the July 7, 2021 minutes as amended, with a 4-0 vote. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included only procedural items and a study session.

• Approved July 7, 2021 minutes as amended (4-0)
• Scheduled further discussion on preservation training and outreach for October 6, 2021
• Requested City Planner to invite Historic District Study Committee members to October meeting

Public Arts Board

The Birmingham Public Arts Board is meeting virtually to consider sculpture loan applications from four artists for the remaining two locations in the 2021 Call for Entry: the electric box at Hamilton Row & N. Old Woodward and the greenspace at S. Old Woodward & Woodward. The board will also discuss unfinished business, including Helen Hierta's meditation poles, and hear public comments. The agenda includes routine items like roll call and approval of minutes.

• Review of Helen Hierta's 'Incarnate', 'Testament', 'Weathered' for trail entrance locations
• Laurie Tennent's 'City Bloom' for the electric box at Hamilton Row & N. Old Woodward, with possible public vote
• Michael O'Reilly's powder coated MIG wire sculptures for S. Old Woodward & Woodward or Linn Smith Park
• Ray Katz's seven sculptures (e.g., 'K's Construction', 'Wintermoon') for the gateway site
• Discussion of Farmers Market Arts & Crafts

The Public Arts Board reviewed several art-on-loan applications, prioritizing three trail entrance locations for Helen Hierta's meditation pole sculptures and directing staff to coordinate with the artist. The Board postponed Laurie Tennent's flower print application to 2022, declined Michael O'Reilly's wire sculptures, and requested more information on Ray Katz's sculptures for a future meeting.

• Prioritized Lincoln & Fairway Trail, History Museum, and Eton & Maple for Hierta sculptures
• Postponed Laurie Tennent's electrical box flower prints to 2022
• Declined Michael O'Reilly's Mig Wire sculptures
• Requested photos and renderings of Crestview Park for Ray Katz sculptures
• Approved June 16, 2021 minutes (6-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board is considering a Special Land Use Permit and site plan for a new 4-story building and restaurant at 300 & 394 S. Old Woodward and 294 E. Brown. The board will also review a final site plan for an outdoor dining platform at 135 Pierce Street.

• Special Land Use Permit and Site Plan review for 4-story building at 300 & 394 S. Old Woodward and 294 E. Brown
• Request to operate a restaurant using an Economic Development Liquor License at 300 & 394 S. Old Woodward
• Final Site Plan & Design Review for outdoor dining platform at 135 Pierce Street (Planthropie)
• Study session on Public Notice Signs
• Study session on Outdoor Dining

The Planning Board voted 6-0 to recommend approval of a Special Land Use Permit and Final Site Plan for a new 4-story building at 300-394 S. Old Woodward, including a restaurant with an economic development liquor license. The board also approved a design review for an outdoor dining platform at 135 Pierce Street (Planthropie) with conditions, after an initial motion failed. A study session on public notice signs led to scheduling a public hearing for August 11, 2021.

• Recommended approval of Special Land Use Permit for 300-394 S. Old Woodward (6-0)
• Recommended approval of Final Site Plan for 300-394 S. Old Woodward (6-0)
• Approved Planthropie outdoor dining design review with conditions (6-1)
• Scheduled public hearing for public notice sign ordinance amendment (6-1)

Parks and Recreation Board

The board is considering a recommendation to install a steel horse sculpture at Poppleton Park. Members will also review a revised wedding ceremony agreement that would exclude Shain Park from reservations.

• Request to install 'Cor-Ten Steel Horse' sculpture by Barry Harrison at Poppleton Park
• Proposed revised Wedding Rental Agreement for ceremonies in city parks
• Construction update for the Birmingham Ice Sports Arena
• Golf Course Finance Report for May 2021
• Discussion of 2021 In The Park Concert Series

The Parks and Recreation Board approved supporting Poppleton Park as the location for a three-year loan of the sculpture "Standing Horses" by Barry Harrison. The board also adopted a revised Wedding Rental Agreement (ceremony only) that removes Shain Park from eligible locations and increases fees. No action was taken on other discussion items, including capital project reports and the ice arena construction update.

• Approved support for Poppleton Park as the location for the "Standing Horses" sculpture loan by Barry Harrison
• Adopted the revised Wedding Rental Agreement (ceremony only), excluding Shain Park and increasing fees
• Approved the minutes of the June 1, 2021 regular meeting as submitted

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will meet to consider six separate requests for dimensional variances. The board will also review and approve the minutes from the June 8, 2021, meeting.

• Dimensional appeal 21-27 for 1220 Bird
• Dimensional appeal 21-29 for 689 Westwood
• Dimensional appeal 21-30 for 282 Greenwood
• Dimensional appeal 21-31 for 375 Lakepark
• Dimensional appeal 21-32 for 782 Chesterfield

The Birmingham Board of Zoning Appeals voted on four variance requests. It denied a front yard setback variance for 1220 Bird (5-0) and a side yard variance for the same property (3-2). It also denied a front yard setback variance for 375 Lakepark (4-1). The board approved a front yard setback variance for 782 Chesterfield (5-0) and a building separation variance for 640 Suffield (5-0). Two appeals (21-29 and 21-30) were tabled to the August 2021 meeting.

• Denied side yard variance for 1220 Bird (3-2)
• Denied front yard setback variance for 1220 Bird (5-0)
• Denied front yard setback variance for 375 Lakepark (4-1)
• Approved front yard setback variance for 782 Chesterfield (5-0)
• Approved building separation variance for 640 Suffield (5-0)
• Tabled appeals 21-29 and 21-30 to August 2021 meeting

City Commission

The City Commission will hold public hearings regarding rezoning and land use permits for several downtown properties, including a proposed Restoration Hardware building. The body will also vote on various city contracts and special event permits.

• Rezoning request for 300-394 S. Old Woodward and 294 E. Brown from D3 to D4
• Special Land Use Permits for MARE Mediterranean (115 Willits), Sushi Japan (176 S. Old Woodward), and Bloom Bistro (239 N. Old Woodward)
• Payment of $79,970 to Evergreen-Farmington Sanitary Drain Drainage District for capital improvements
• Purchase of TouchPrint 5600 fingerprinting system for $18,094.00
• Mitel phone system and ESNA Voicemail upgrade not to exceed $35,221.25

The City Commission approved a rezoning request for 300-394 S. Old Woodward and a portion of 294 E. Brown Street from B-2/D-3 to B-2/D-4, conditional on the building being limited to four stories as voluntarily offered by the applicant. The commission also approved an amendment to the Economic Development License Map to include the same properties, and approved special land use permits and site plans for MARE Mediterranean at 115 Willits, Sushi Japan at 176 S. Old Woodward, and Bloom Bistro at 239 N. Old Woodward. All votes were unanimous except for the rezoning, which passed 5-1 with Commissioner Host dissenting.

• Approved rezoning of 300-394 S. Old Woodward and part of 294 E. Brown from B-2/D-3 to B-2/D-4, conditional on a four-story limit (5-1, Host dissenting)
• Approved amendment to Economic Development License Map to include 300-394 S. Old Woodward and part of 294 E. Brown (unanimous)
• Approved Special Land Use Permit, Final Site Plan, and Design Review for MARE Mediterranean at 115 Willits, including liquor license transfer (unanimous)
• Approved Special Land Use Permit, Final Site Plan, and Design Review for Sushi Japan at 176 S. Old Woodward, conditioned on engineering changes (unanimous)
• Approved Special Land Use Permit, Final Site Plan, and Design Review for Bloom Bistro at 239 N. Old Woodward (unanimous)
• Approved Chapter 20 Section 471 Agreement with Evergreen-Farmington Sanitary Drainage District, paying $79,970 (unanimous)
• Approved addendum to Parking Structural Assessment Program with WJE for design and bid documentation, not to exceed $50,000 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items including warrants totaling $2,681,175.27, a fingerprinting system purchase, phone system upgrade, and special event permits (unanimous)

Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board

The board is meeting to review the draft 2020-2021 Annual Report and discuss updates to cemetery rules and regulations. Discussions will include language components and specific rules regarding monuments, grave markers, and foundations.

• Review of the DRAFT 2020-2021 Annual Report
• Review of GCAB Rules and Regulations Language Component
• Discussion of Rules and Regulations for Monuments, Grave Markers and Foundations
• Review of Draft Cemetery Marker/Monument Survey Form

The Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board approved the minutes from its June 4, 2021 meeting as amended, with a 5-0 vote. The board also reviewed the draft 2020-2021 annual report and recommended revisions, which City Clerk Bingham will integrate and return for further review. Additionally, the board confirmed that dimensions in the Rules and Regulations should specify units of measurement and recommended replacing pronouns with appropriate antecedents.

• Approved the June 4, 2021 meeting minutes as amended (5-0).
• Recommended revisions to the draft 2020-2021 annual report; City Clerk Bingham will integrate and return for review.
• Confirmed that each unit of measurement should be specified when providing dimensions in the Rules and Regulations.
• Recommended replacing pronouns 'they' or 'them' with appropriate antecedents in the Rules and Regulations; City Clerk Bingham will implement.

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board met on July 7, 2021, to conduct regular business. The board voted to indefinitely postpone a design review for a project at 33233 Woodward.

• Indefinite postponement of design review for 33233 Woodward – Birmingham Colonial

The Birmingham Design Review Board approved the design review application for 825 Bowers (Todd's Room), allowing landscaping on the east and south sides and paint changes on the east and north sides. Additional landscaping or painting on the west side could be administratively approved by the City Planner. The meeting also included approval of the June 16, 2021 minutes and adjournment.

• Approved the DRB minutes of June 2, 2021 as submitted (motion carried 5-0).
• Approved the design review application for 825 Bowers – Todd's Room for landscaping on east and south sides and paint changes on east and north sides, with west side changes eligible for administrative approval (motion carried 6-0).
• Adjourned the June 16, 2021 meeting at 10:02 p.m. (motion carried 7-0).

Historic District Commission

The commission is reviewing historic design applications for several properties on N. and S. Old Woodward. The meeting includes a design review for the Parks and Maplewood buildings and the D.U.R. Waiting Room.

• Historic Design Review: 100 N. Old Woodward – Parks/Maplewood Buildings
• Historic Design Review: 239 N. Old Woodward – Bloom Bistro
• Historic Design Review: 239 N. Old Woodward – Huston Building
• Historic Design Review: 138 S. Old Woodward – D.U.R. Waiting Room
• Study Session: NAPC CAMP Commissioner Training

The Historic District Commission approved Certificates of Appropriateness for three projects: 100 & 136 N. Old Woodward (Parks/Wooster Buildings), 239 N. Old Woodward (Huston Building and Bloom Bistro), and 138 S. Old Woodward (D.U.R. Waiting Room/Evereve). Each approval included specific conditions, such as submitting glass specification sheets and meeting glazing standards. The commission also approved the minutes from the June 2 and June 16, 2021 meetings.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 100 & 136 N. Old Woodward (Parks/Wooster Buildings) with conditions (7-0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 239 N. Old Woodward (Huston Building) with conditions (6-0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 239 N. Old Woodward (Bloom Bistro) with conditions (6-0)
• Approved Design Review for 138 S. Old Woodward (D.U.R. Waiting Room/Evereve) with conditions (6-1)
• Approved minutes of June 2, 2021 (6-0)
• Approved minutes of June 16, 2021 (6-0)

Museum Board

The Museum Board will discuss the museum's reopening and the recruitment of new board members. The body is also scheduled to hold an election for the board chair on August 5.

• Museum reopening plans
• Recruitment of Museum Board members
• Election of Chair scheduled for August 5
• Director report on Hunter House interior paint study
• Research on Birmingham's role in the Underground Railroad

The Birmingham Museum Board met July 1, 2021, with Marty Logue as temporary chair. The board approved the June 3 minutes and discussed the museum's phased reopening, which began June 15 and expands to Fridays from 1-4 PM starting July 1, with full public hours after Labor Day. Director Pielack reported steady visitation about twice the usual summer rate, and noted applications for board positions from Bev Erickson and Alexandra Harris, with appointments expected at the July 26 City Commission meeting.

• Appointed Marty Logue as temporary Chair for the meeting
• Approved the minutes of June 3, 2021
• Discussed phased museum reopening: Fridays 1-4 PM from July 1, full schedule after Labor Day
• Noted board member recruitment: Erickson applied for regular seat, Harris for alternate; one regular seat open
• Scheduled August 5 meeting to include election of Chair for remainder of fiscal year

City Commission

The Birmingham City Commission meets virtually to handle routine approvals, set public hearings, and discuss several new business items. Key actions include authorizing use of federal COVID recovery funds for lead service line replacement, entering a consent judgment in a lawsuit involving Birmingham Wine Shop, and holding a closed session for a performance evaluation. The consent agenda includes warrant payments totaling over $2.1 million and several equipment and service contracts.

• Warrant lists totaling $1,430,167.59 and $722,368.00
• Service agreement with Next for $122,940 (FY 2021-2022)
• Purchase of two Toro fairway mowers for $94,917.56 after trade-in
• Public hearings July 26 on zoning amendments (architectural standards, windows, solar) and 501 S. Eton bistro special land use
• Authorize use of COVID recovery funds for lead service line replacement

The Birmingham City Commission approved using the city's Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds allocation for lead service line replacement. The Commission also approved a consent judgment in the Birmingham Wine Shop litigation and made several appointments to city boards. The meeting included a closed session for the City Manager's performance evaluation.

• Authorized the City Manager to use the city's allocation of Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds towards lead service line replacement.
• Approved entering into a Consent Judgement in the pending litigation Birmingham Wine Shop, LLC et al v City of Birmingham, et al.
• Appointed John Schrot to the Board of Ethics for a three-year term expiring June 30, 2024.
• Appointed Jake German to the Historic District Study Committee for a three-year term expiring June 30, 2024.
• Appointed Colleen McGough to the Historic District Study Committee for a three-year term expiring June 30, 2024.
• Appointed Rick Wiand to the Building Trade Appeals board for a three-year term expiring May 23, 2024.
• Appointed Arya Afrakhtch to the Building Trade Appeals board for a three-year term expiring May 23, 2024.
• Appointed Thomas Lindberg to the Building Trade Appeals board for a term expiring May 23, 2022.

Planning Board

The Birmingham Planning Board is meeting to review site plans and land use permits for several developments. The board will consider a final site plan for a new mixed-use building and address several postponed items.

• Final Site Plan and Design Review for a new 5-story mixed-use building at 35001 Woodward
• Special Land Use Permit for a new four-story building and restaurant at 300 & 394 S. Old Woodward and 294 E. Brown (rescheduled to July 14, 2021)
• Final Site Plan and Design Review for circulation and layout changes at Jax Car Wash, 34745 Woodward Avenue (postponed to July 28, 2021)

The Birmingham Planning Board approved the final site plan and design for The Maple, a new 5-story mixed-use building at 35001 Woodward, with conditions including a lease agreement with the City Commission and various design modifications. The vote was 5-2, with members Koseck and Jeffares dissenting over concerns about the building's verticality and architectural compatibility. The board also postponed indefinitely the Jax Car Wash site plan review at the applicant's request, and rescheduled the Special Land Use Permit review for 300 & 394 S. Old Woodward to July 14, 2021.

• Approved final site plan for 35001 Woodward (The Maple) with conditions (5-2)
• Postponed indefinitely Jax Car Wash site plan review (7-0)
• Rescheduled 300 & 394 S. Old Woodward SLUP review to July 14, 2021 (7-0)
• Approved minutes of June 9, 2021 meeting (7-0)
• Agreed to hold study session on June 21 PB-CC joint meeting (7-0)

City Commission

The City Commission and Planning Board are holding a joint workshop session. No formal decisions will be made; the meeting is for discussing problem definitions and desired outcomes.

• Outdoor dining discussion
• Parking standards discussion
• Activation of public property at Southfield and Wakefield discussion

The Birmingham City Commission and Planning Board held a joint workshop to discuss three items: outdoor dining regulations, parking standards, and activation of public property at Southfield and Wakefield. No formal decisions were made; the groups reached consensus on directions for future review and discussion. The Board will review the outdoor dining ordinance broadly, not just enclosures. There was consensus to explore lowering parking requirements and activating the public property, with public engagement to follow.

• Consensus to have the Planning Board review the outdoor dining ordinance overall, not limited to enclosures.
• Consensus that lowering parking requirements, especially for residential developments, would have a positive impact.
• Consensus to explore activating the public property at Southfield and Wakefield, with initial discussions to involve the neighborhood and public.
• No formal votes or resolutions were taken; the meeting was a workshop for discussion.

Advisory Parking Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss Phase 3 of the S. Old Woodward reconstruction project. The session includes a review of design concepts and the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Phase 3, S. Old Woodward Reconstruction design concepts
• Approval of June 2, 2021 meeting minutes
• Discussion on returning to in-person City Commission and Board meetings

The Advisory Parking Committee approved the minutes of its June 2, 2021 meeting by a 4-0 vote. The committee then heard a presentation on the Phase Three reconstruction of S. Old Woodward, including proposed driveway relocations for safety. Members discussed business concerns about metered parking loss and noted that Phases One and Two had fewer complaints, though pandemic effects were acknowledged. The meeting was adjourned at 8:51 a.m.

• Approved the minutes of the June 2, 2021 meeting (4-0).
• Heard a presentation on Phase Three S. Old Woodward reconstruction, including proposed driveway relocations.
• Noted that MKSK will solicit feedback from businesses and the public on the plans.
• Acknowledged that Phases One and Two had fewer complaints, though pandemic effects were noted.
• Adjourned at 8:51 a.m.

Historic District Commission

The commission will conduct historic design reviews for properties on W. Frank and N. Old Woodward. The meeting includes a study session on commissioner training and a pre-application discussion for the Parks/Wooster Building.

• Design review for 743 W. Frank (King-Argus House) regarding siding replacement and painting
• Design review for 239 N. Old Woodward (Bloom Bistro)
• Design review for 239 N. Old Woodward (Huston Building)
• Pre-application discussion for 100 N. Old Woodward (Parks/Wooster Building)
• Study session for NAPC CAMP Commissioner Training

The Historic District Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior repairs at 743 W. Frank (King-Argus House), with a request for periodic updates. The commission postponed the historic design review for 239 N. Old Woodward (Bloom Bistro and Huston Building) to allow the applicant to revise plans. No other items were considered.

• Approved Historic Design Review and Certificate of Appropriateness for 743 W. Frank – King-Argus House, 7-0.
• Postponed historic design review for 239 N. Old Woodward – Bloom Bistro and Huston Building, 7-0.
• Approved minutes of June 2, 2021, 7-0.
• Adjourned at 9:42 p.m., 7-0.

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board will meet to review a design application for a commercial building at 825 Bowers. The board is considering a proposal to repaint parts of the building brown while retaining some pink sections and adding new landscaping.

• Design review for 825 Bowers – Todd’s Room regarding exterior paint colors and boxwood landscaping

The Design Review Board approved the design review application for 825 Bowers (Todd's Room), allowing landscaping on the east and south sides and paint changes on the east and north sides. Additional landscaping or painting on the west side could be administratively approved by the City Planner. The motion passed 6-0, with Chair Henke abstaining. No other items were considered.

• Approved the minutes of June 2, 2021, as submitted (5-0).
• Approved the design review for 825 Bowers – Todd's Room, including landscaping on east/south sides and paint on east/north sides, with west-side changes eligible for administrative approval (6-0).
• No public hearings, sign reviews, or study sessions were held.
• Adjourned the meeting at 10:02 p.m. (7-0).

Public Arts Board

The Public Arts Board is discussing the placement and approval of several sculptures for loan or donation. The board is evaluating five specific submissions for the 2021 Call for Entry program.

• Review of 'Communications Vine' by Eric Troffkin
• Review of 'Cor-ten Steel Horse' by Barry Harrison for Poppleton Park
• Review of 'Incarnate', 'Testament', and 'Weathered' by Helen Hierta
• Discussion of Farmers Market Arts & Crafts and Cultural Arts Awards
• Call for Entry stipend of $2,000 for approved art work

The Public Arts Board voted 7-0 to recommend Barry Harrison's "Cor-ten" Steel Horse sculpture for Poppleton Park as part of the art-on-loan program. The Board declined to recommend "Communications Vine" by Eric Troffkin, citing concerns about climbing and aesthetics. Artist Helen Hierta's meditation pole sculptures were not approved; staff will bring trail-entry location options to the next meeting.

• Approved (7-0) recommendation of "Cor-ten" Steel Horse by Barry Harrison for Poppleton Park
• Rejected "Communications Vine" by Eric Troffkin; staff to notify artist
• Deferred Helen Hierta's meditation pole sculptures; staff to propose trail-entry locations
• Requested public post advertising Cultural Arts Awards nominations
• Noted Pyramid Earth installation approved for July 2021

City Commission

The City Commission will hold public hearings regarding the rezoning and economic development licensing of parcels at 300-394 S. Old Woodward and 294 E. Brown. The body will also decide on a land use permit for Vinewood Kitchen & Cocktails and the extension of temporary outdoor dining standards.

• Rezoning of 300-394 S. Old Woodward and portions of 294 E. Brown from D-3 to D-4 Downtown Overlay
• Contract for MKSK Old Woodward Corridor design services not to exceed $178,380.00
• Purchase of one 2022 Ford F-350 4x4 Crew Cab not to exceed $54,106.00
• Technology and Audio Visual services for Birmingham Ice Arena Renovation not to exceed $45,067.00
• Public hearings for Bloom Bistro, MARE Mediterranean, and Sushi Japan scheduled for July 12, 2021

The Commission voted to take no action on extending temporary COVID-19 outdoor dining standards, allowing them to expire June 30, 2021. They approved several contracts, including technology installation for the Ice Arena, internet upgrades for parking structures, and engineering consultant agreements. The Commission also postponed two public hearings to July 12, 2021, and approved a scaled-down Woodward Dream Cruise participation.

• Approved $45,067 technology/AV installation for Ice Arena (unanimous)
• Approved $102,600 Crown Castle internet upgrade for 5 parking structures (unanimous)
• Approved engineering consultant agreements with MKSK, F&V, OHM (unanimous)
• Approved scaled-down Woodward Dream Cruise participation (unanimous)
• Postponed rezoning hearing for 300-394 S. Old Woodward to July 12 (unanimous)
• Postponed zoning amendment hearing for 300-394 S. Old Woodward to July 12 (unanimous)
• Took no action on extending temporary outdoor dining standards; expires June 30 (5-2)
• Approved closed session for pending litigation (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a virtual workshop to discuss short-term rentals. No formal actions will be taken during this session.

• Presentation on current rental property statistics and regulations in Birmingham
• Discussion on allowable regulations for short-term rentals
• Discussion on potential additional regulations to address Commission concerns

The Birmingham City Commission held a workshop session to discuss short-term rentals, with no formal actions taken. Officials reviewed current licensing and enforcement practices, noted that short-term and long-term rentals must be treated the same, and discussed potential state legislation that could affect local control. The city will continue efforts to notify unlicensed short-term rental properties.

• No formal actions taken; workshop discussion only
• City to continue notifying unlicensed short-term rental properties
• Commissioner Baller recommended publicizing short-term rental licensing via newsletters

Parks and Recreation Board

The board is meeting to receive updates on the Birmingham Ice Sports Arena renovation and financial reports for the arena and golf course. Members will also discuss pickleball updates and a potential park near the Chesterfield Fire Station.

• Birmingham Ice Sports Arena construction update and change log
• Ice Arena Finance Report for period ending April 30, 2021
• Golf Course Finance Report for April 2021
• Review of potential park near Chesterfield Fire Station
• Engage Birmingham Pickleball update

The Parks and Recreation Board received a construction update on the Birmingham Ice Sports Arena, reporting the project is on schedule and the budget is in good shape with a positive change of $3,009.29. The board also reviewed financial reports for the ice arena and golf course, and discussed a pickleball survey and a potential park near Chesterfield Fire Station, but took no action on these items. The minutes of the May 11, 2021 meeting were approved as amended.

• Approved the minutes of the May 11, 2021 regular meeting as amended.
• Received a construction update on the Birmingham Ice Sports Arena, noting a positive budget change of $3,009.29.
• Reviewed the ice arena financial report for the period ending April 30, 2021; no action taken.
• Reviewed the golf course finance report for April 2021; no action taken.
• Reviewed the golf course report dated May 26, 2021; no action taken.
• Discussed the Engage Birmingham Pickleball survey results; no action taken.
• Discussed a potential park near Chesterfield Fire Station; no action taken.

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a special land use permit and site plan for a new bistro at 501 S. Eton. The board will also hold public hearings on solar panel regulations and glazing standards.

• Special Land Use Permit for a new bistro serving alcoholic liquors at 501 S. Eton
• Final Site Plan and Design Review for 501 S. Eton
• Public Hearing on Solar Panel Regulations
• Public Hearing on Glazing Standards

The Birmingham Planning Board voted 6-1 to recommend approval to the City Commission of a Special Land Use Permit and Final Site Plan for a new bistro serving alcoholic liquors at 501 S. Eton (Whistle Stop), subject to conditions including reduced concrete, clear glass windows, and administrative approval of streetscape improvements. The Board also voted 7-0 to recommend amendments to the Zoning Ordinance regarding solar panel regulations and glazing standards. The meeting was held remotely via Zoom.

• Approved minutes of May 26, 2021, as amended, 6-0.
• Recommended approval of Final Site Plan & Design Review for 501 S. Eton – Whistle Stop, 6-1, with conditions including 67% glazing, clear glass, and streetscape improvements.
• Recommended approval of Special Land Use Permit for 501 S. Eton – Whistle Stop, 6-1, subject to site plan conditions.
• Recommended amendments to Zoning Ordinance Section 4.09 and 4.88 for solar panel regulations, 7-0.
• Recommended amendments to Zoning Ordinance Sections 3.04, 4.90, and 9.02 for glazing standards, 7-0.

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will meet virtually to consider several dimensional and sign variance requests. The board will review appeals for properties on Pierce, Woodland, N Old Woodward, Bird, and Buckingham.

• Dimensional appeal for 1016 Pierce (Appeal 21-21)
• Dimensional appeal for 815 Woodland (Appeal 21-23)
• Dimensional appeal for 856 N Old Woodward (Appeal 21-25)
• Sign appeal for 555 S Old Woodward Ste 100 (Appeal 21-26)
• Dimensional appeals for 1220 Bird (Appeal 21-27) and 2351 Buckingham (Appeal 21-28)

The Birmingham Board of Zoning Appeals approved four of five variance requests heard at its June 8, 2021 meeting, and denied one. The board approved variances for properties at 1016 Pierce, 815 Woodland, 555 S. Old Woodward, and 2351 Buckingham, and denied a parking variance for Fruition at 856 N. Old Woodward. A hearing for 1220 Bird was rescheduled because the appellants were not present.

• Approved 3.25-foot side setback variance for new home at 1016 Pierce (7-0)
• Approved 14 sq ft accessory structure area variance for garage at 815 Woodland (7-0)
• Denied 12-space parking variance for Fruition at 856 N. Old Woodward (6-1)
• Approved illuminated sign variance for Birmingham Pub at 555 S. Old Woodward (7-0)
• Rescheduled hearing for 1220 Bird to July 2021 (7-0)
• Approved 1-foot accessory building setback variance at 2351 Buckingham (7-0)

Historic District Study Committee

The Historic District Study Committee will discuss a request to designate the home at 1390 Northlawn as a local historic resource. The body will also review its priority list and approve minutes from a previous meeting.

• Historic designation request for 1390 Northlawn, a 1951 home designed by Wallace Frost
• Review of the HDSC priority list
• Approval of February 3, 2021 meeting minutes

The Historic District Study Committee meeting scheduled for June 7, 2021, was cancelled because a quorum was not present. No decisions were made or items discussed.

Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board

The board is meeting in-person at the cemetery to discuss tree planting considerations and landscaping. Members will also review planning for a baseline survey of cemetery markers and draft goals for FY 2021-2022.

• Review of tree planting considerations and landscaping
• Planning for the Greenwood Cemetery Monument Baseline Survey
• Drafting of FY 2021-2022 goals
• Review of financial reports and cemetery sales activity

The Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board approved the May 7, 2021 minutes as amended, with a 6-0 vote. The board discussed tree planting and landscaping, agreeing to coordinate with the Department of Public Services and to have DPS explore replacing a pole and chain with wrought iron fencing. They also agreed on a baseline survey plan for cemetery monuments, including photographing each lot and plot, and approved submitting draft goals for FY 2021-2022 as categorized by the City Clerk. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved May 7, 2021 minutes as amended (6-0)
• Agreed to photograph each lot and two photos per plot for monument baseline survey
• Agreed to include gravesites without markers in survey and add comments section to volunteer forms
• Agreed to submit draft FY 2021-2022 goals as categorized by City Clerk
• Directed DPS to explore wrought iron fencing to replace pole and chain
• Agreed future changes to benches, memorials, signage must be run by DPS

Museum Board

The Museum Board will meet virtually to finalize plans for a Pandemic Documentation Project and discuss the recruitment of new board members. The meeting includes a Director's report on landscape improvements and historical research.

• Pandemic Documentation Project planning
• Recruitment of Museum Board members
• Heritage Zone landscape improvements update
• Hunter House interior paint analysis by Historic Surfaces, LLC
• Research findings on Revolutionary War veteran John Daniels

The Birmingham Museum Board approved the May 6, 2021 minutes unanimously (6-0). They discussed a 'pandemic project' to collect public materials and memories for the permanent collection, with September as suggested timing. The board also heard about the museum's phased reopening starting June 15 and discussed filling three board positions opening after June 30.

• Approved May 6, 2021 minutes (6-0)
• Discussed pandemic project to collect public materials for permanent collection
• Noted phased museum reopening starting June 15
• Identified three board positions opening after June 30

Advisory Parking Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss the selection of a vendor and installation locations for electric vehicle charging stations. The agenda also includes a review of recommendations from a structural assessment report for the Chester Parking Structure.

• Discussion of EV charging station vendors including Chargepoint, EV Connect, and Eco Green / Enel X
• Proposed installation of EV stations at Pierce and Park structures
• Review of Parking Structural Assessment Report recommendations for 180 Chester Street
• Approval of May 5, 2021 meeting minutes

The Advisory Parking Committee discussed electric vehicle charging stations and decided to continue the conversation at their August 2021 meeting, with a motion to revisit the topic carried 6-0. They also approved the minutes from the May 5, 2021 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of May 5, 2021 meeting (5-0)
• Motion to revisit EV charging stations at August 2021 meeting carried (6-0)

Design Review Board

The Board will review a design application for 825 Bowers (Todd’s Room) regarding an unapproved exterior paint project. The applicant has proposed a new scheme to repaint portions of the building brown while retaining some pink areas.

• Design review of 825 Bowers (Todd’s Room) exterior paint and landscaping
• Pre-application discussion for Hands-On Physical Therapy at 33233 Woodward

The Birmingham Design Review Board held a regular meeting on June 2, 2021, via Zoom. The board approved the minutes from the May 19 meeting and postponed discussion of the 825 Bowers proposal to June 16, 2021, to allow the applicant more time to develop a suitable color palette. No public hearings or sign reviews were held.

• Approved minutes of May 19, 2021 (5-0)
• Postponed discussion of 825 Bowers to June 16, 2021 (7-0)

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will conduct a virtual meeting to review historic designs and signs. The agenda includes a study session on commissioner training and pre-application discussions for two properties.

• Pre-application discussion: 100 N. Old Woodward (Parks/Wooster Building)
• Pre-application discussion: 464 Townsend (Toms-Dickinson House)
• Study session: NAPC CAMP Commissioner Training

The Historic District Commission approved the minutes of the May 19, 2021 meeting. No courtesy reviews, historic design reviews, or sign reviews were conducted. The commission voted to adjourn the pre-application discussion for 100 N. Old Woodward to the June 16, 2021 meeting because the applicant did not submit documentation in advance. The study session on NAPC CAMP Commissioner Training was postponed until a member was present.

• Approved minutes of May 19, 2021 (7-0)
• Adjourned pre-application discussion for 100 N. Old Woodward to June 16, 2021 (7-0)
• Postponed NAPC CAMP Commissioner Training study session

Planning Board

The Planning Board is considering Special Land Use Permits and site plan reviews for three businesses. These requests involve the approval of bistros and restaurants serving alcoholic liquors in existing buildings.

• Special Land Use Permit and site plan review for Bloom Bistro at 239 N. Old Woodward
• Special Land Use Permit and design review for Mare Mediterranean at 115 Willits Street
• Special Land Use Permit and site plan review for Sushi Japan at 176 S. Old Woodward

The Birmingham Planning Board recommended approval to the City Commission for Special Land Use Permits and Final Site Plan and Design Reviews for three new restaurants: Bloom Bistro at 239 N. Old Woodward, Mare Mediterranean at 115 Willits Street, and Sushi Japan at 176 S. Old Woodward. Each recommendation was approved unanimously (7-0) with conditions, such as compliance with city department requests and specific design requirements. The board also approved the minutes of the April 28, 2021 meeting and changed rules of procedure for the June 9, 2021 meeting to allow a site plan review for Whistle Stop.

• Approved minutes of April 28, 2021 meeting (6-0, Chair Clein abstained)
• Recommended approval of SLUP for Bloom Bistro at 239 N. Old Woodward (7-0)
• Recommended approval of Final Site Plan for Bloom Bistro at 239 N. Old Woodward (7-0)
• Recommended approval of SLUP for Mare Mediterranean at 115 Willits Street (7-0)
• Recommended approval of Final Site Plan for Mare Mediterranean at 115 Willits Street (7-0)
• Recommended approval of SLUP for Sushi Japan at 176 S. Old Woodward (7-0)
• Recommended approval of Final Site Plan for Sushi Japan at 176 S. Old Woodward (7-0)
• Changed rules of procedure for June 9, 2021 meeting to allow Whistle Stop site plan review (7-0)

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting to adopt the budget and property tax millages for the upcoming fiscal year. The body will also consider several land use permits, lot changes, and the cancellation of the city's participation in the 2021 Woodward Dream Cruise.

• Budget appropriations and property tax millage rates for July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2022
• Special Land Use Permit for Vinewood Kitchen & Cocktails at 720 N. Old Woodward
• Park System Construction Fund budget amendment for $5,012,100
• Warrant lists totaling $850,961.96 and $1,679,329.03
• Commissioning services for Birmingham Ice Arena Renovation not to exceed $15,800

The City Commission approved the FY 2021-2022 budget resolution, establishing the total number of mills for ad valorem property taxes. The Commission also approved the official water and sewer rate resolution for 2021-2022, amending the schedule of fees for sewer, storm water, and industrial surcharge rates. A motion to cancel Birmingham's participation in the 2021 Woodward Dream Cruise failed for lack of a second, and staff was directed to return with a proposal for minimizing participation.

• Approved FY 2021-2022 budget resolution (7-0)
• Approved water and sewer rate resolution for 2021-2022 (7-0)
• Confirmed Special Assessment Roll No. 894 for Grant Street Paving Project (7-0)
• Postponed Special Land Use Permit for 720 N. Old Woodward to June 14, 2021 (7-0)
• Directed applicant to pursue rezoning of 695 W. Brown Street to R-2 Single-Family Zone (7-0)
• Cancelled public hearing for 353 & 385 Fairfax lot combination (7-0)
• Appointed Robert Kenning to Martha Baldwin Park Board (7-0)
• Motion to cancel participation in 2021 Woodward Dream Cruise failed for lack of a second

Design Review Board

The board will review a design application for Todd’s Room at 825 Bowers regarding an unapproved pink exterior paint scheme. City staff recommends denying the application because the applicant failed to submit new plans to reduce the color's impact.

• Design review of exterior painting at 825 Bowers (Todd’s Room)

The Design Review Board postponed the design review for Todd's Room at 825 Bowers to the June 2, 2021 meeting, after the owner failed to submit required landscaping plans and color samples since November 2020. The board voted 7-0 to postpone, giving owner Todd Skog one more chance to provide the documentation by May 28, 2021. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included approval of prior minutes and a consensus to administratively approve window changes at 400 S. Old Woodward.

• Approved minutes of April 7, 2021 (7-0)
• Postponed Todd's Room design review to June 2, 2021 (7-0)
• Consensus to administratively approve window changes at 400 S. Old Woodward

Historic District Commission

The commission will discuss historic design reviews for three properties on S. Old Woodward. This includes a proposal for The Plaza to install new windows, doors, and lighting to enclose a former outdoor dining space.

• Design review for 210 S. Old Woodward (The Plaza) regarding storefront changes and non-cutoff lighting
• Design review for 255 S. Old Woodward (Cosmo Salon Studios)
• Design review for 100 S. Old Woodward (Parks/Maplewood Building)

The Historic District Commission approved design review applications for 210 S. Old Woodward (The Plaza) and 255 S. Old Woodward (Cosmo Salon Studios) with conditions, and postponed the application for 100 & 136 Old Woodward (Parks & Wooster Buildings) to the June 16 meeting. The commission also discussed tree removal at 743 W. Frank and directed staff to bring the owners for design review.

• Approved design review for 210 S. Old Woodward – The Plaza (7-0) with conditions
• Approved design review for 255 S. Old Woodward – Cosmo Salon Studios (6-1) with conditions
• Postponed design review for 100 & 136 Old Woodward – Parks & Wooster Buildings to June 16, 2021 (7-0)
• Directed staff to bring owners of 743 W. Frank for design review after unauthorized tree removal

Public Arts Board

The Public Arts Board will discuss and potentially act on five sculpture submissions: two Marx family sculptures (donation), 'Communications Vine' by Eric Troffkin (loan), 'Cor-ten Steel Horse' by Barry Harrison (loan), and 'Stations' by Roland Biermann (loan). The board will also consider unfinished business regarding arts and crafts at the Farmers Market. The meeting is virtual via Zoom.

• Review of 2 Marx family sculptures donation from 970 Oak Street
• Loan application for 'Communications Vine' by Eric Troffkin (25'x25'x5', steel/fiberglass)
• Loan application for 'Cor-ten Steel Horse' by Barry Harrison (8' high, 11' long, cor-ten steel)
• Loan application for 'Stations' by Roland Biermann (84 oil barrels, 12,457 lbs, previously in London and NYC)
• Discussion of Farmers Market Arts & Crafts projects

The Public Arts Board reviewed five sculpture applications but made no formal recommendations, choosing to wait another month for more applicants and location considerations. They approved the April minutes as amended and discussed volunteer coordination for the Farmers Market.

• Approved April 21, 2021 minutes as amended (5-0)
• Deferred decisions on all sculpture applications to next month
• Agreed to coordinate Farmers Market volunteers on the 3rd Sunday of each month

Parks and Recreation Board

The board is seeking public input on five potential locations for pickleball courts, including options to build new courts or convert existing tennis courts. Members are also reviewing a request to designate a 0.60-acre portion of the Chesterfield Fire Station property as a city park.

• Public input on pickleball sites: Crestview, Kenning, Poppleton, St. James, and West Lincoln Well parks
• Proposal to designate 0.60 acres of Chesterfield Fire Station property as a city park
• Construction update and finance report for the Birmingham Ice Sports Arena
• Discussion of the 2021-2022 Capital Improvement Program (CIP)
• Rouge River Clean-Up scheduled for May 15th and Quarton Lake Garlic Pull for May 16th

The Parks and Recreation Board held a discussion-only meeting, taking no formal action on any item. They reviewed five potential pickleball court locations and heard public input, with a recommendation expected at a future meeting. The board also discussed a proposed park at Fire Station 2, the 2021-2022 CIP, and construction updates, but made no decisions.

• Approved April 6, 2021 meeting minutes as amended (7-0)
• No action on pickleball court locations; discussion only
• No action on Fire Station 2 park designation request
• No action on 2021-2022 CIP
• No action on Capital Projects Sub-Committee report
• No action on Ice Arena construction update
• No action on Ice Arena finance report
• No action on other communication items

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Birmingham Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a virtual meeting to hear six appeals for dimensional variances, all related to residential construction or additions. One appeal (21-24) has been withdrawn. The board will also approve minutes from the April 13, 2021 meeting.

• 900 Puritan: variance for 16.18-ft porch projection and 6.18-ft side yard setback
• 1394 Westwood: variances for 2.31-ft and 3.83-ft side street setbacks for addition/garage
• 689 Westwood: variances for 4.49-ft total side yard setback and 1.07-ft distance to neighbor
• 1016 Pierce: variance for 4.30-ft distance between principal buildings
• 1301 Fairway and 815 Woodland: additional dimensional variance appeals

The Birmingham Board of Zoning Appeals heard six variance appeals on May 11, 2021. The board denied variances for 900 Puritan (6-1) and 1394 Westwood (7-0), approved variances for 1301 Fairway (7-0), and tabled appeals for 1016 Pierce and 815 Woodland to the June meeting. The board also denied variances for 689 Westwood (7-0).

• Denied variances for 900 Puritan (6-1)
• Denied variances for 1394 Westwood (7-0)
• Denied variances for 689 Westwood (7-0)
• Approved variances for 1301 Fairway (7-0)
• Tabled appeal for 1016 Pierce to June 2021 meeting (7-0)
• Tabled appeal for 815 Woodland to June 2021 meeting (7-0)
• Approved minutes of April 13, 2021 meeting (7-0)

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting to consider several land use changes and public hearings, including a paving project on Grant Street. The body will also vote on various service contracts and board appointments.

• Public Hearing of Necessity for the Grant Street Paving Project
• Proposed rezoning and license amendments for 300-394 S. Old Woodward and 294 E. Brown Street
• Contract with Revize LLC for website design services not to exceed $33,850.00
• Cross Connection Control Services Agreement with HydroCorp not to exceed $49,716.00
• Liquor license transfer for 211 S. Old Woodward from Birmingham Theatro, LLC to CH Birmingham, LLC

The Commission approved a lot split and combination for parcels at 300-394 S. Old Woodward, creating a 20,201.08 sq.ft. parcel, subject to conditions including payment of taxes and either D-4 rezoning or a building height reduction to 68 feet. It also approved a final site plan and liquor license transfer for 211 S. Old Woodward, a public art donation, a mental health co-response team agreement, and a website redesign contract with Revize LLC.

• Approved lot combination of 300-394 S. Old Woodward (7-0) with conditions
• Approved lot split of 300 S. Old Woodward (7-0)
• Approved lot split of 294 E. Brown Street (7-0)
• Approved final site plan and liquor license transfer for 211 S. Old Woodward (7-0)
• Approved interlocal agreement for Mental Health Co-Response Team (7-0)
• Accepted 'Dynamic Tension' sculpture donation and $2,000 stipend (7-0)
• Approved website redesign contract with Revize LLC up to $33,850 (6-1)
• Set public hearing for June 14, 2021 for RH rezoning request (7-0)

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a workshop to discuss the Birmingham Automobile Parking System and Special Assessment Districts. No formal actions will be taken during this session.

• Discussion on whether to create a new PSAD for the Triangle District
• Review of funding charts and formulas for parking structures
• Discussion on assessments for major repairs versus user fees
• Review of assessment requirements for new developments increasing density
• Discussion on allowing property owners outside the PSAD to buy in

The Birmingham City Commission held a workshop on May 10, 2021, to discuss the Parking Assessment District (PAD) and unimproved streets. No formal actions were taken. The commission reviewed the parking system's financial status, including $18.8 million in unrestricted net position and estimated future costs of nearly $12 million for deck and surface lot updates. Members discussed the need for policy changes to make assessments fairer, including for new businesses and residential buildings, and agreed to hold an additional workshop to address specific questions.

• No formal actions taken; workshop only
• Agreed to hold an additional workshop to address PAD policy questions
• Discussed potential reassessment of businesses for parking system maintenance
• Noted need to simplify and clarify PAD assessment policies

Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board

The Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board is meeting virtually to review its goals for the 2021-22 fiscal year, discuss revisions to the cemetery's rules and regulations (including language, definitions, and lot sales), and locate unmarked burial areas. The board will also receive reports on finances, sales, and other cemetery operations. This is a working session focused on planning and policy review.

• Review of goals for 2021-22 fiscal year
• Discussion of Greenwood Cemetery Rules and Regulations (language, definitions, lot sales)
• Locating unmarked burial areas and cemetery terminology
• Financial reports and cemetery sales & activity updates
• Grave release update and tree update

The Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board approved the April 5, 2021 minutes as amended (6-0, Vercellone abstaining). They decided to sort their goals into short-term and long-term categories with 'critical' or 'desired' designations, and to add current projects like Rules and Regulations and grave release supervision. The Board tabled lot sales discussion to July 2021 and asked the City Attorney to clarify the legality of installing a Pewabic tile at Mary Chase Stratton's grave.

• Approved April 5, 2021 minutes as amended (6-0, Vercellone abstained)
• Decided to sort goals into short-term/long-term with critical/desired designations
• Added Rules and Regulations, grave release supervision, and other projects to goals
• Retained GPR as a goal, likely 'desired' rather than 'critical'
• Tabled lot sales discussion to July 2021 GCAB meeting
• Asked City Attorney to clarify legality of installing Pewabic tile at Stratton's grave
• Planned to discuss trees, gravestone inventory, and goals at June 2021 meeting

Museum Board

The Museum Board will meet to discuss a proposed pandemic-themed time capsule project and repairs to the trash receptacle area at the Hunter House fence. The board will also receive a Director's report on various museum projects and collections.

• Pandemic time capsule project
• Proposed modifications to Hunter House fence and trash receptacle area repairs
• Report on the location of Greenwood Cemetery's former 'potter's field'
• Update on Hunter House furnace replacement approved by City Commission on April 12
• Proposed donation of personal artifacts from Chad Smith

The Birmingham Museum Board met virtually and approved the April 1, 2021 minutes. Members discussed a potential project to collect public contributions about the COVID-19 pandemic for future exhibit, to be finalized in June. They also agreed to changes in the Heritage Zone landscape plan and discussed plant options for a trash receptacle barrier. No formal decisions were made on these items.

• Approved minutes of April 1, 2021 (6-0)
• Discussed pandemic time capsule project, to be finalized in June
• Agreed by consensus to change pea gravel to turf under Hunter House fence
• Agreed by consensus to accept either clematis viticella or climbing hydrangea for trash receptacle barrier

Advisory Parking Committee

The committee is discussing upgrading internet connections to fiber at five parking structures to improve reliability and support future equipment. The IT department is recommending a managed fiber solution from Crown Castle.

• Proposed Crown Castle managed fiber: $2,850/month (36-month term) or $2,400/month (60-month term)
• Proposed Clear Rate managed ethernet: $2,094/month (36-month term) or $1,794/month (60-month term) plus $2,994 install fee
• Proposed Comcast managed ethernet: $3,250/month (36-month term)
• Discussion of credit card processing fees
• Internet upgrades for 333 Park St., 333 N. Old Woodward, 222 Peabody, 333 Pierce, and 180 Chester St.

The Advisory Parking Committee recommended upgrading internet connections at all five parking garages to Managed Fiber Ethernet from Crown Castle for a 36-month term, with a unanimous 7-0 vote. The committee also discussed credit card processing fees and suggested the future Parking Manager explore lower rates. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recommended Managed Fiber Ethernet upgrade for 5 parking garages (7-0)
• Approved April 7, 2021 meeting minutes (4-0)

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board will meet to conduct a public hearing and review signs. The scheduled design review for 825 Bowers has been postponed.

• Public hearing
• Sign review
• Postponed design review for 825 Bowers – Todd’s Room

City Commission

The City Commission is conducting a public hearing to review the recommended budget for 2021-2022. The meeting includes reviews of the General Fund, Special Revenue Funds, and Enterprise Funds.

• Public hearing on 2021-2022 Recommended Budget
• Review of General Fund including Police, Fire, and Public Services
• Review of Special Revenue Funds including Major and Local Streets
• Review of Enterprise Funds including Water Supply and Sewage Disposal
• Review of Capital Projects Fund

The City Commission held a public hearing on the 2021-2022 recommended budget. No formal votes were taken; the hearing was for discussion and public comment. Staff presented departmental budgets, and commissioners asked questions and made recommendations for adjustments.

• Public hearing on 2021-2022 recommended budget held; no formal action taken
• Staff to correct typographical error in audit charge from $61,070 to $31,070
• Staff to consider moving software purchase/maintenance costs from Printing and Publishing to Computer Equipment Rental
• Staff to review conference expenditure estimates due to evolving public health circumstances
• Staff to consider requiring retirement communities to have lift equipment and stair chairs
• Staff to consider using $2M federal funding for lead service line replacements
• Staff to consider starting S. Old Woodward project early if possible

Planning Board

The Planning Board is reviewing multiple requests for a new 4-story building project. The board will consider rezoning, a zoning ordinance amendment for liquor licenses, and a preliminary site plan for the development.

• Rezoning request from B2/D3 to B2/D4 for 300 & 394 S. Old Woodward and portions of 294 E. Brown
• Zoning amendment to include 300 & 394 S. Old Woodward and portions of 294 E. Brown on the Economic Development License map
• Special Land Use Permit for a new 4-story building and restaurant at 300 & 394 S. Old Woodward and portions of 294 E. Brown
• Community Impact Study review for the 4-story building at 300 & 394 S. Old Woodward and portions of 294 E. Brown
• Preliminary Site Plan Review for the 4-story building at 300 & 394 S. Old Woodward and portions of 294 E. Brown

The Birmingham Planning Board voted 7-0 to recommend approval of a rezoning from D-3 to D-4 for properties at 300-394 S. Old Woodward and a portion of 294 E. Brown, conditioned on the applicant's voluntary offer to limit building height to four stories. The board also recommended approval of an ordinance amendment to allow economic development liquor licenses on the site, accepted the Community Impact Study, and approved the Preliminary Site Plan for a new four-story building, all with conditions. The Special Land Use Permit item was not discussed, serving only as public notification.

• Recommended approval of rezoning 300-394 S. Old Woodward and portion of 294 E. Brown from D-3 to D-4, conditioned on voluntary height limit to four stories (7-0)
• Recommended approval of zoning ordinance amendment to include properties on Economic Development License map (7-0)
• Accepted Community Impact Study for proposed development with conditions including bicycle racks (7-0)
• Approved Preliminary Site Plan for new four-story building with 12 conditions (7-0)
• Rescheduled public hearings on glazing and solar panels from May 12 to June 9, 2021 (7-0)
• Approved minutes of April 14, 2021 meeting as amended (5-0)

City Commission

The Birmingham City Commission will consider several items, including whether to postpone, deny, or approve a proposed lot combination at 34350 Woodward and 907-911 Haynes, and whether to direct a bistro application to the Planning Board. The agenda also includes routine consent items, appointments to city boards, and resolutions regarding cemetery fees and services.

• Lot combination decision for 34350 Woodward and 907-911 Haynes (parcels 19-36-281-022 and 19-36-281-030)
• Resolution to direct bistro application to Planning Board for review
• Purchase of holiday lights from Wintergreen Corporation for $29,910
• Warrant lists totaling $809,759.86 (April 14) and $493,415.90 (April 21)
• Agreement with Creative Collaborations, LLC for Greenwood Cemetery services up to $45,600

The Commission voted unanimously to cancel the public hearing for the lot combination of 34350 Woodward Avenue and 907-911 Haynes Street, directing the applicant to first obtain Final Site Plan and Special Land Use Permit approval for expanding auto sales/showroom use. The Commission also approved several appointments, a consent agenda with two items pulled, and various resolutions including fee schedule amendments and cemetery-related actions.

• Cancelled public hearing for lot combination at 34350 Woodward/907-911 Haynes, directed applicant to obtain Final Site Plan and SLUP approval first (7-0)
• Appointed Larry Bertollini to Architectural Review Committee, 3-year term to April 11, 2024 (7-0)
• Appointed Pierre Yaldo to Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, 3-year term to May 23, 2024 (7-0)
• Appointed Karson Claussen and Phil Vincenti to Housing Board of Appeals, 3-year terms to May 4, 2024 (7-0 each)
• Approved consent agenda excluding minutes and MPF Walk items; approved April 12 minutes and MPF Walk separately (7-0 each)
• Adopted ordinance amendment for fee schedule (7-0)
• Amended Greenwood Cemetery fee schedule (7-0)
• Released 38 graves in Greenwood Cemetery Section B for purchase (6-1, Commissioner Hoff dissenting)

Public Arts Board

The board is considering a proposal to loan the sculpture “Dynamic” by Lois Teicher for installation at the intersection of Henrietta and W. Maple. Members will also discuss sponsorship tiers for public art funding and arts and crafts activities for the Farmers Market.

• Proposed loan of sculpture “Dynamic” by Lois Teicher with a $2,000 stipend ($1,000 at installation, $1,000 after 3 years)
• Discussion of sponsorship levels ranging from $50 to $25,000+
• Review of arts and crafts packages for the Farmers Market, including coloring book pricing from BZ Kids
• Communication regarding Wall Art moving to the Planning Board

The Public Arts Board voted unanimously to recommend that the City Commission accept artist Lois Teicher's donation of the sculpture 'Dynamic Tension' for placement at Henrietta and Maple, and to recommend a $2,000 installation stipend. The board also discussed fundraising incentives and selected craft projects for the Farmers Market. No other formal decisions were made.

• Recommended accepting 'Dynamic Tension' sculpture donation (7-0)
• Recommended $2,000 installation stipend for artist (7-0)
• Approved minutes of March 17, 2021 (7-0)

Historic District Commission

The Birmingham Historic District Commission is holding a virtual meeting to conduct historic design and sign reviews, along with a courtesy review and study session. The agenda includes approval of previous minutes, staff reports on administrative approvals and demolitions, and discussion of future agenda items. No specific projects or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• Historic Design Review
• Sign Review
• Study Session
• Administrative Sign Approvals and Administrative Approvals staff reports
• Demolitions staff report

Design Review Board

This is a routine procedural meeting of the Birmingham Design Review Board. The agenda contains only standard items such as roll call, approval of prior minutes, and staff reports, with no specific projects, applications, or decisions listed for public discussion.

• Approval of April 7th, 2021 minutes
• Public hearing (no specific case listed)
• Design review (no specific project listed)
• Sign review (no specific sign listed)
• Administrative sign approvals and administrative approvals reports

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting to provide direction following a review of the first draft of the 2040 Plan. The body will consider a resolution to have the DPZ team prepare a second draft.

• Resolution to direct DPZ team to prepare the second draft of the 2040 Plan including Planning Board recommendations

The Birmingham City Commission voted unanimously to direct the DPZ team to prepare the second draft of the 2040 Plan, incorporating the Planning Board's recommendations and the Commission's comments from the meeting. The discussion focused on seams, multifamily housing, accessory dwelling units, and other planning topics, with no final decisions on those specific issues.

• Directed DPZ to prepare second draft of 2040 Plan (7-0)
• Included Planning Board's recommendations from April 13, 2021 letter
• Included Commission's comments from April 19, 2021 meeting

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a Special Land Use Permit and Final Site Plan for a new bistro at 720 N. Old Woodward. The board will also hold study sessions regarding solar panel and glazing regulations.

• Special Land Use Permit and Final Site Plan for Vinewood Bistro at 720 N. Old Woodward, including alcoholic liquor service
• Study session on Solar Panel Regulations
• Study session on Glazing Standards

The Birmingham Planning Board voted 7-0 to recommend denial of the special land use permit and final site plan for Vinewood Bistro at 720 N. Old Woodward, citing failure to meet the spirit and intent of the bistro ordinance, including outdoor enclosure, permanent structure, floodplain, dumpster, pedestrian interaction, and storefront issues. The board also set public hearings for May 12, 2021 on solar panel regulations and glazing standards, and endorsed an administrative approval for EM Bistro's chair change.

• Recommended denial of Vinewood Bistro special land use permit (7-0)
• Recommended denial of Vinewood Bistro final site plan and design review (7-0)
• Set public hearing on solar panel regulations for May 12, 2021 (7-0)
• Set public hearing on glazing standards without low-iron requirement for May 12, 2021 (7-0)
• Endorsed administrative approval for EM Bistro chair change (majority, Chair Clein dissenting)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will meet virtually to consider a dimensional variance request for a property at 159 Baldwin. The board will also review minutes from the March 9, 2021, meeting.

• Dimensional variance appeal 21-17 for 159 Baldwin
• Appeal 21-16 for 900 Puritan (withdrawn)

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved two variances for a new single-family home at 159 Baldwin, allowing a 33.30-foot front yard setback reduction and a 1.10-foot eave height increase. A third variance for a deck was removed from consideration as unnecessary. The board also approved the minutes of the March 9, 2021 meeting as amended.

• Approved front yard setback variance of 33.30 feet at 159 Baldwin (7-0)
• Approved eave height variance of 1.10 feet at 159 Baldwin (7-0)
• Removed deck variance from consideration as unnecessary
• Approved minutes of March 9, 2021 meeting as amended (7-0)

City Commission

The City Commission will discuss several infrastructure projects, including the Birmingham Ice Arena renovation and Grant Street paving. The body is also reviewing lot splits and combinations for properties on S. Old Woodward and E. Brown Street.

• Awarding the Birmingham Ice Arena Renovation and Addition project to C.E. Gleeson Constructors, Inc. for $4,891,200.00
• Awarding the Grant Street Paving Project #1-21(P) to DiPonio Contracting, Inc. for $1,139,199.00
• Proposed lot split and combination for 300-394 S. Old Woodward and 294 E. Brown Street
• Purchase of a 2021 Ford F-150 Responder Crew Cab for up to $39,692.00
• Public hearing date for May 10, 2021, regarding a liquor license ownership change at 211 S. Old Woodward

The Birmingham City Commission met on April 12, 2021. The Commission approved the consent agenda, excluding the meeting minutes, and approved the minutes with corrections. A motion to deny the use of 8 parking spaces for a project at 670 S. Old Woodward was approved. The Commission voted to continue the public hearing for the Porsche dealership project at 34350 Woodward. A $1.14 million contract for the Grant Street paving project was approved. The Commission approved a $6,982 expenditure for a new HVAC unit at the Hunter House. A $6.98 million contract for the Ice Arena renovation was awarded. The Commission deferred a discussion about a potential city park at the old fire station. The meeting was adjourned.

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a workshop session to discuss the funding, planning, and design standards for unimproved streets. No formal actions will be taken during this meeting.

• Discussion on funding and cost distribution for upgrading unimproved roads
• Review of proactive infrastructure planning and a potential Master Plan
• Discussion on concrete pavement as a standard for new improved streets
• Discussion on Special Assessment Districts (SAD) for paving costs
• Discussion on drafting a new ordinance for the improvement of unimproved streets

The Birmingham City Commission held a workshop to discuss unimproved streets, covering funding, planning, design standards, and special assessment policies. No formal votes were taken, but commissioners expressed support for developing a master plan and exploring options like asphalt or concrete. The meeting was informational, with no decisions made.

• No formal actions taken; workshop only
• Commissioners expressed support for a proactive approach and master plan for unimproved streets
• Discussed potential for bonding and cost split for road improvements
• No consensus on design standards; some favored allowing asphalt or concrete
• Discussed revising ordinance for special assessment districts, including petition process

Advisory Parking Committee

The committee is reviewing a proposal to upgrade internet connectivity in five parking structures to fiber. Members will also provide direction on installing electric vehicle charging stations and vehicle amenity bays.

• Proposal to upgrade 5 garages to Managed Fiber Ethernet for $2,400 to $2,850 per month
• Discussion of installing Electric Vehicle Charging (EVC) stations
• Discussion of installing Amenity Bays for vehicle cleaning and maintenance
• Update on ParkMobile usage and Google Pay integration
• Review of the Parking System Manager job description

The Advisory Parking Committee voted to continue pursuing internet upgrades at all five parking structures but will review additional bids before proceeding. It tabled a pilot amenity bay program for one year due to pandemic-related revenue loss and directed staff to research electric vehicle charging station options further. The committee also approved the March 3, 2021 minutes as amended and moved the ParkMobile update to the end of the agenda.

• Approved moving the ParkMobile update to the end of the agenda (5-0).
• Approved the March 3, 2021 meeting minutes as amended (5-0).
• Approved continuing internet upgrades at all five parking structures, with review of additional bids (6-0).
• Approved re-evaluating the SP+ amenity bay proposal in one year (6-0).
• Approved directing staff and SP+ to research EV charging station options and report back (6-0).

Historic District Commission

The commission is reviewing a design application for a complete facade renovation at 142 S. Old Woodward. The body will also conduct sign reviews and a study session.

• Design review for 142 S. Old Woodward (The Shade Store) involving a new stucco facade and glazing
• Postponed review for 100 S. Old Woodward (Parks/Maplewood Building)
• Review of administrative sign approvals and demolitions

The Historic District Commission approved the design review for 142 S. Old Woodward (The Shade Store) with conditions, including raising glazing to interior ceiling height, adding a vertical mullion, and meeting at least 70% glazing. The review for 100 S. Old Woodward (Parks/Maplewood Building) was postponed to April 21, 2021. Minutes from March 17, 2021 were approved.

• Approved design review for 142 S. Old Woodward – The Shade Store with conditions (6-0)
• Postponed review of 100 S. Old Woodward – Parks/Maplewood Building to April 21, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved HDC minutes of March 17, 2021 (5-0)

Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board

The Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board will discuss the cemetery services contract and review the current fee schedule. The board is also preparing the 2020-21 annual report and setting goals for the 2021-22 fiscal year.

• Review of the cemetery fee schedule
• Review of grave sales and recommendations for the next grave release
• Discussion of the Cemetery Services Contract
• Review of 2019-20 goals and preparation for the 2021-22 report

The Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board voted to recommend releasing 38 graves in Section B, Rows 17c, 16c, 15c, and 14a, and approved the revised fee schedule. They also recommended renewing the cemetery services contract with Creative Collaborations for 2021-2022, with one dissenting vote. The board agreed to submit individual goal recommendations and review Rules and Regulations sections in May.

• Approved minutes of March 5, 2021 as amended (6-0).
• Recommended release of 38 graves in Section B, Rows 17c, 16c, 15c, 14a (6-0).
• Recommended approval of revised Greenwood Cemetery Fee Schedule effective immediately (6-0).
• Recommended renewal of cemetery services contract with Creative Collaborations for 2021-2022 (5-1, Stern dissenting).
• Agreed to submit individual goal recommendations to Clerk Bingham before May meeting.
• Agreed to review Language, Definitions, and Lot Sale Policy sections of Rules and Regulations in May.

Museum Board

The Museum Board will meet virtually to discuss a survey of Greenwood Cemetery and the first part of a disaster plan. The board will also review spring pop-up exhibits and member roles.

• Greenwood Cemetery Survey planned for June/July 2021
• Discussion of Disaster Plan, Part I
• Planning for Spring Pop Up Exhibits

The Museum Board approved the minutes from the March 18, 2021 meeting. The director discussed a volunteer survey of Greenwood Cemetery to assess grave marker conditions and presented Part I of the museum's Disaster Preparedness Plan. The board also discussed a potential time capsule project, to be considered at the May meeting.

• Approved the minutes of March 18, 2021 (7 yeas, 0 nays).
• Discussed the Greenwood Cemetery volunteer survey to assess grave marker conditions.
• Presented Part I of the museum's Disaster Preparedness Plan.
• Agreed to consider a time capsule project at the May meeting.

Board of Ethics

The Board of Ethics is meeting to discuss the potential administrative dismissal of a complaint. The board will consider if the matter should be dismissed because other complaints or requests for advisory opinions on the same matter are pending.

• Consideration of administrative dismissal of Complaint 2021-03 (Holland v. Sherman)
• Approval of March 15, 2021 minutes
• Public communication from Cory “King” Holland Sr

The Board of Ethics voted unanimously to administratively dismiss complaint 2021-03 (Holland v. Sherman) without prejudice, citing Board of Ethics Rule 302(b) because a related matter was still pending before the Michigan Department of Civil Rights. The Board also approved and amended a one-page statement outlining the reasoning for the dismissal, which will be circulated for signatures.

• Approved the minutes of March 15, 2021 as submitted.
• Administratively dismissed complaint 2021-03 (Holland v. Sherman) without prejudice.
• Approved a one-page statement outlining the reasoning for the dismissal, with amendments made by consensus.

Planning Board

The Planning Board is reviewing special land use permits and site plans for several developments. This includes a proposed 4-story building with a restaurant and liquor license on S. Old Woodward and a food and drink establishment at 856 N. Old Woodward.

• Special Land Use Permit for a new 4-story building and restaurant with liquor license at 300 & 394 S. Old Woodward and portions of 294 E. Brown
• Special Land Use Permit for a food and drink establishment (no alcohol) at 856 N. Old Woodward
• Final Site Plan and Design Review for a 5-story mixed use building at 35001 Woodward
• Community Impact Study for the proposed 4-story building at 300 & 394 S. Old Woodward
• Preliminary Site Plan Review for the proposed 4-story building at 300 & 394 S. Old Woodward

The Birmingham Planning Board approved the final site plan and recommended approval of a special land use permit for Fruition, a new food and drink establishment at 856 N. Old Woodward, with conditions including maintaining a floor plan with three tables and six chairs and obtaining a parking variance of 12 spaces. The board also postponed action on the Community Impact Study and Preliminary Site Plan for the proposed development at 300-394 S. Old Woodward to April 28, 2021, and postponed the Final Site Plan for 35001 Woodward to May 26, 2021.

• Approved final site plan for 856 N. Old Woodward – Fruition, with conditions (6-1)
• Recommended approval of special land use permit for 856 N. Old Woodward – Fruition, with conditions (6-1)
• Postponed Community Impact Study for 300-394 S. Old Woodward to April 28, 2021 (7-0)
• Postponed Preliminary Site Plan for 300-394 S. Old Woodward to April 28, 2021 (7-0)
• Postponed Final Site Plan for 35001 Woodward – The Maple to May 26, 2021 (7-0)
• Approved minutes of March 10, 2021 meeting (7-0)

City Commission

The City Commission will consider appointments to several city boards and hold public hearings for 11 liquor license renewals. The body is also deciding on a golf cart lease, cemetery plot price increases, and a state of emergency declaration for virtual meetings.

• Proposed increase of Greenwood Cemetery plots from $3,000 to $4,000
• Golf cart lease for Birmingham Golf Courses with EZ-Go Textron up to $256,692.30 over five years
• Warrant lists for approval totaling $2,211,995.98 and $1,110,203.20
• Public hearings for 11 liquor license renewals, including Birmingham Sushi and Rugby Grille
• Purchase of an Ex Mark Spreader/Sprayer for $7,999.00

The Birmingham City Commission made several appointments to city boards, approved consent agenda items including warrant lists, and renewed numerous liquor licenses. They also approved a fertilizer buggy purchase, a DPS equipment upgrade, and a golf cart fleet lease. The commission postponed a lot combination hearing and scheduled a special meeting to discuss the Master Plan.

• Appointed Heather Carmona, Susan Collins, and John Rusche to Parks and Recreation Board (unanimous except Collins 6-1)
• Appointed Jacqueline Patt to Museum Board, Katie Schafer and Doug White to Multi-Modal Transportation Board (all unanimous)
• Appointed J. Bryan Williams, Stuart Jeffares, and Daniel Share to Planning Board (all unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items A, B, C, D, G including warrant lists totaling $3,322,199.18 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of fertilizer buggy for $7,999 (unanimous)
• Approved Common Ground Art Fair on S. Old Woodward Sept 18-19, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved DPS equipment upgrade not to exceed $12,782 (unanimous)
• Renewed liquor licenses for Birmingham Sushi, Community House, Hazel Ravines & Downtown, Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse, Mad Hatter Bistro, Pernoi, Social Kitchen & Bar, Tallulah Wine Bar & Bistro, Rojo Mexican Bistro & Sidecar, Rugby Grille, Vinotecca (all unanimous)

Museum Board

The Birmingham Museum Board is meeting virtually to discuss new business including student representatives, a board applicant, the Allen House window restoration update, and review of bids for the Heritage Zone Phase I landscape improvements. They will also review a collections research policy and provide updates on virtual meetings. The agenda includes standard items like minutes approval and reports.

• Heritage Zone Phase I Landscape Improvements bid review with proposals from LGK Building, Inc. ($48,200) and Worry Free Outdoor Services ($33,400)
• Allen House Window Restoration Project update
• Collections Research, Duplication and Use Policy review
• Student representatives Carter Lutz and Aidan Schroeder
• Museum Board member applicant Jacqui Patt

The Birmingham Museum Board recommended awarding the Phase I Heritage Zone Landscape Improvement Project contract to Worry Free Outdoor Services, Inc. for $33,400, and approved the proposed Collections Research, Duplication, and Use Policy. The Allen House window project was deferred to fiscal year 2021-2022. The board also welcomed new student representatives and a board applicant.

• Approved minutes of February 4, 2021 (6-0).
• Recommended awarding Phase I Heritage Landscape Improvement Project contract to Worry Free Outdoor Services, Inc. for $33,400 (6-0).
• Approved Collections Research, Duplication, and Use Policy as proposed (6-0).
• Deferred Allen House window project to fiscal year 2021-2022.

Design Review Board

The board will review a design application for façade updates to a commercial building at 1050 Webster. The meeting also includes sign review and pre-application discussions for a business at 130 W. Fourteen Mile.

• Design review for 1050 Webster including new storefront system, glazing, and rooftop screenwall
• Pre-application discussion for Elizabeth Head to Toe at 130 W. Fourteen Mile

The Design Review Board approved the design review application for 1050 Webster, subject to conditions including revised elevations, clarification of a rooftop screenwall, and glazing details. The board also directed staff to contact Todd's Room about a continuing violation and discussed a pre-application for signage at 130 W. Fourteen Mile, where consensus was that the proposed sign would exceed allowed size.

• Approved the March 3, 2021 minutes as submitted (7-0).
• Approved the 1050 Webster design review application with conditions (7-0).
• Directed staff to email Todd's Room about their ongoing violation of a December 16, 2020 directive.
• Reached consensus that Elizabeth Head to Toe cannot add signage to a rear backer panel as it would exceed allowed size by about 10 square feet.

Historic District Commission

The commission is reviewing a proposal for a three-story addition to the historic one-story commercial building at 361 E. Maple. The applicant has submitted revised plans addressing previous concerns regarding building massing and storefront design.

• Design review for 361 E. Maple (Hawthorne Building) three-story addition
• Review of revised storefront design and relocated egress stairs at 361 E. Maple
• Discussion of building height reduction from 67 ft. 6 in. to 65 ft. 6 in. at 361 E. Maple
• Review of increased setback from 3 ft. to 5 ft. for the 361 E. Maple addition

The Birmingham Historic District Commission denied the Historic Design Review application for 361 E. Maple (Hawthorne Building) by a 6-1 vote, citing failure to comply with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation numbers 1, 4, 9, and 10. The commission also approved the minutes of the March 3, 2021 meeting unanimously. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Denied Historic Design Review for 361 E. Maple – Hawthorne Building (6-1)
• Approved minutes of March 3, 2021 (7-0)

Public Arts Board

The Board decided to recommend a public notification process for hearings regarding public art, similar to site plan reviews. Members also discussed creating a tiered sponsorship program to recruit funding for art donations and loans.

• Recommendation for public notification process for public art hearings
• Proposed sponsorship levels ranging from $50 to $25,000 and up
• Discussion of arts and crafts packages for the Birmingham Farmers Market
• Tentative installation of Pyramid Earth for late April or early May 2021
• Design Review Board review of wall art policy proposal

The Public Arts Board met and approved the February 10th, 2021 minutes unanimously. The board continued discussing donor and sponsor incentives for public art, liking a tiered reward format and planning a rough draft for the next meeting. They also discussed take-home craft ideas for the 2021 Farmers Market, agreeing to have members email ideas to staff for a list at the April meeting. No new business was conducted.

• Approved the February 10th, 2021 meeting minutes (7 yeas, 0 nays).
• Continued discussion on donor/sponsor incentives, favoring a tiered reward format with a bar chart.
• Agreed to have staff bring a rough draft of incentive levels to the next meeting.
• Discussed potential incentives including website acknowledgement, plaques, BSD partnership, tours, and a 'Birmingham Art Day' event.
• Agreed to have board members email craft ideas to staff for a list at the April meeting for the Farmers Market.

Board of Ethics

The Board of Ethics will meet to review a draft advisory opinion and discuss the creation of guidance for potential conflicts of interest.

• Consideration of Draft Opinion 2021-01 regarding a request from Kucharek
• Discussion on creating guidance for conflict of interest situations

The Board of Ethics approved the minutes of February 22, 2021, with corrections. It then adopted Draft Opinion 2021-01, an advisory opinion requested by City Attorney Kucharek, with changes made during the meeting. The board discussed but did not formalize guidance on conflicts of interest, as the discussion was deemed sufficient.

• Approved the February 22, 2021 minutes as corrected.
• Adopted Draft Opinion 2021-01 with amendments made during the meeting.
• Discussed but did not formalize guidance on conflict-of-interest situations.

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a study session to provide direction on the first draft of the 2040 Birmingham Plan. The board will also discuss an action list for 2021-2022 and review status updates on current study session items.

• Review of first draft of 2040 Birmingham Plan
• Discussion of 2021-2022 Action List
• Status update on study session items

The Planning Board approved the minutes of the February 24, 2021 meeting as amended, and approved and recommended the 2021-2022 Planning Board Action List to the City Commission. The Board also provided extensive direction on the first draft of the 2040 Birmingham Plan, including recommendations on traffic, housing, and sustainability. The Board agreed to submit its comments and a letter from DPZ directly to the Commission.

• Approved the minutes of the February 24, 2021 meeting as amended, 7-0.
• Approved and recommended the 2021-2022 Planning Board Action List to the City Commission, 7-0.
• Agreed to submit the Board's comments and the DPZ letter on the 2040 Plan directly to the Commission.
• Concurred with administrative approval of two changes to EM Bistro's plans, including a seating increase to 48 seats.

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will meet to consider six requests for dimensional variances. The meeting is being held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Dimensional appeal for 691 Bloomfield Ct (Appeal 21-09)
• Dimensional appeal for 269 E Southlawn (Appeal 21-10)
• Dimensional appeal for 2440 Fairway (Appeal 21-11)
• Dimensional appeal for 1404 E Lincoln (Appeal 21-12)
• Dimensional appeal for 998 S Glenhurst (Appeal 21-13)

The Birmingham Board of Zoning Appeals approved six of seven variance requests, including additions at 269 E. Southlawn, 2440 Fairway, 1404 E Lincoln, 998 S Glenhurst, and a detached garage at 1859 Yorkshire. The board denied a variance for a pool and patio at 691 Bloomfield Ct, citing self-created hardship and negative neighbor impact. All votes were 7-0 except the 998 S Glenhurst approval, which passed 6-1.

• Denied pool/patio variance at 691 Bloomfield Ct (7-0)
• Approved two side-yard variances for second-floor addition at 269 E. Southlawn (7-0)
• Approved six variances for second-floor addition at 2440 Fairway (7-0)
• Approved 0.25-ft side-yard variance for addition at 1404 E Lincoln (7-0)
• Approved two building-distance variances for new home at 998 S Glenhurst (6-1)
• Approved front-yard garage variance at 1859 Yorkshire; second variance withdrawn (7-0)

City Commission

The City Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a senior living facility and vote on the adoption of the Birmingham 2040 Plan review process. The body is also considering updates to park rules and poverty exemption policies.

• Public hearing for All Seasons 2 independent senior living facility at 219 Elm St.
• Payment of $166,799 for road and signal improvements on Cranbrook Road
• Purchase of 83 trees from KLM Landscape not to exceed $34,970
• Warrant lists totaling $4,908,727.09 and $1,205,931.69
• Proposal to waive all parking structure fees until June 30, 2021

The Birmingham City Commission approved the Special Land Use Permit, Final Site Plan, and Design Review for the All Seasons 2 independent senior living facility at 219 Elm St. The commission also adopted updated park rules, approved a cost participation agreement for Cranbrook Road improvements, and continued COVID-19 business relief measures including waived parking fees until June 30, 2021. A motion to allow 8 parking spaces at 670 S. Old Woodward to count toward parking requirements failed for lack of a second.

• Approved Special Land Use Permit for All Seasons 2 senior living at 219 Elm St. (7-0)
• Adopted updated Park Rules and Regulations (7-0)
• Approved $166,799 cost participation for Cranbrook Road resurfacing and traffic signal work (7-0)
• Authorized electronic filing of personal and property taxes using PINs (7-0)
• Approved master plan review and adoption process for Birmingham 2040 Plan (7-0)
• Adopted poverty exemption and updated hardship application policy (7-0)
• Approved $9,360 emergency repair invoice and $11,611 elevator repair for Chester Street Parking Structure (7-0)
• Continued COVID-19 relief: signage, outdoor dining, and waived parking fees until June 30, 2021 (5-2)

City Commission

The City Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a senior living facility and discuss the adoption process for the Birmingham 2040 Plan. The body is also considering several consent items including road improvements and tree planting.

• Public hearing for All Seasons 2 independent senior living facility at 219 Elm St.
• Cost participation agreement for Cranbrook Road resurfacing and signals for $166,799
• Purchase of 83 trees from KLM Landscape not to exceed $34,970
• Warrant lists totaling $4,908,727.09 and $1,205,931.69
• Proposal to waive parking structure fees until June 30, 2021

The Birmingham City Commission approved a Special Land Use Permit, Final Site Plan, and Design Review for the All Seasons 2 independent senior living facility at 219 Elm St. The commission also adopted updated park rules, approved a cost participation agreement for Cranbrook Road improvements, and continued COVID-19 business relief measures including waived parking fees until June 30, 2021. A motion to allow eight parking spaces at 670 S. Old Woodward to count toward parking requirements failed for lack of a second.

• Approved Special Land Use Permit for All Seasons 2 senior living at 219 Elm St. (7-0)
• Adopted updated Park Rules and Regulations (7-0)
• Approved Cost Participation Agreement for Cranbrook Road resurfacing, $166,799 city share (7-0)
• Authorized electronic filing of personal and property taxes using PINs (7-0)
• Continued COVID-19 business relief, including waived parking fees until June 30, 2021 (5-2)
• Approved emergency repair invoice for Chester Street Parking Structure elevator, $20,971 total (7-0)
• Adopted poverty exemption and hardship application policy (7-0)
• Motion to allow 8 parking spaces at 670 S. Old Woodward failed for lack of a second

Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board

The Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board is discussing recommendations for grave pricing to increase the Perpetual Care Fund. The board is reviewing three pricing options—$3,000, $4,000, and $5,000 per plot—to balance financial self-sufficiency with public accessibility.

• Evaluation of grave pricing options: $3,000 (current), $4,000, or $5,000 per plot
• Review of Greenwood Cemetery Rules & Regulations
• Financial reports and cemetery sales and activity updates
• Discussion of a $2,000,000 goal for the Perpetual Care Fund

The Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board recommended the City Commission approve a grave price of $4,000, with the increase effective immediately upon Commission approval. The board also decided to review the cemetery's Rules and Regulations in stages, starting with general language and definitions in April, and lot sales and operations in May. The board approved the February 5, 2021 minutes with a minor clarification.

• Approved minutes of February 5, 2021, with a clarification adding 'Birmingham' before 'City parks'.
• Recommended the Commission authorize changing grave prices to $4,000, with supporting documentation included in the report.
• Approved the condition that the price increase be effective immediately upon Commission passage, applicable to all currently released and future grave releases.
• Decided to address general language, definitions, and fee schedule in the Rules & Regulations review at the April 2021 meeting.
• Decided to address lot sales, resales, and operational regulations in the Rules & Regulations review at the May 2021 meeting.
• Agreed to individually review the Rules and Regulations for pronoun or definition issues between March and April meetings.
• Agreed to leave the June meeting agenda open to determine whether to advance or revisit topics in the Rules review.

Museum Board

The Museum Board meeting scheduled for March 4, 2021, was canceled. It has been rescheduled as a virtual meeting for Thursday, March 18, 2021, at 5:00 PM.

Advisory Parking Committee

The Advisory Parking Committee is meeting to discuss the extension of free parking. The committee will also review the status of permit renewals.

• Free Parking Extension
• Status of Permit Renewals

The Advisory Parking Committee voted unanimously to continue free parking in all city parking structures through June 30, 2021, with paid parking resuming on July 1, 2021. The committee also approved the minutes from the December 2, 2020 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved continuation of free parking in all structures through June 30, 2021 (7-0)
• Approved resuming paid parking on July 1, 2021 (7-0)
• Approved minutes of December 2, 2020 meeting (4-0)

Historic District Commission

The commission will discuss a restoration project for the historic Allen House windows at the Birmingham Museum. The body will also conduct design reviews for properties on W. Frank and E. Maple, and hold a study session on promoting historic preservation.

• Courtesy review of window restoration at 556 W. Maple (Birmingham Museum)
• Historic design review for 743 W. Frank (King-Argus House)
• Historic design review for 361 E. Maple (Hawthorne Building)
• Study session on Promoting Historic Preservation outline
• Pre-application discussion for 141 W. Maple (Fields Building)

The Historic District Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for the King-Argus House at 743 W. Frank, allowing the proposed rehabilitation work. The commission postponed the design review for the Hawthorne Building at 361 E. Maple to its March 17, 2021 meeting, at the applicant's request, to allow for plan revisions. The commission also unanimously endorsed a courtesy review report on the Birmingham Museum at 556 W. Maple. No sign reviews were conducted, and no other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved the minutes of the February 3, 2021 meeting as submitted (5-0).
• Endorsed the courtesy review report for the Birmingham Museum at 556 W. Maple.
• Approved the Historic Design Review application and issued a Certificate of Appropriateness for 743 W. Frank – King-Argus House (7-0).
• Postponed consideration of the Historic Design Review application for 361 E. Maple – Hawthorne Building to the March 17, 2021 meeting (7-0).
• Adjourned the meeting at 9:00 p.m. (7-0).

Design Review Board

The Birmingham Design Review Board will hold a public hearing and design review for the Piety Hill Shopping Center at 33202 Woodward Avenue, an exterior renovation with new paint, panels, lighting, and landscaping. The Planning Division recommends approval with a condition that the applicant submit a revised photometric plan to comply with light intensity limits. The board may approve, postpone, or deny the application.

• Design review for 33202 Woodward – Piety Hill exterior renovation
• Proposed 34 new light fixtures; photometric plan exceeds 1.5 foot-candles at eastern property line
• Applicant revised plans to eliminate new dumpster enclosures and maintain existing parking
• Proposed landscaping: 63 Dwarf Blue Lavender and 18 Drift Rose plantings
• Sign plan: 5 sign areas totaling 228 sq. ft., under permitted 529.5 sq. ft.

The Birmingham Design Review Board approved the design review application for 33202 Woodward (Piety Hill) with two conditions: the applicant must submit a revised photometric plan that complies with the Zoning Ordinance's light intensity requirements or obtain a variance, and must submit a revised sign band plan to the City Planner for administrative approval. The board also approved the minutes from January 20, 2021, and adjourned. No public hearings, sign reviews, or study sessions were held.

• Approved the DRB minutes of January 20, 2021, as submitted (6-0).
• Approved the design review application for 33202 Woodward – Piety Hill, conditioned on a revised photometric plan meeting Zoning Ordinance light requirements or a variance, and a revised sign band plan for administrative approval (7-0).
• Adjourned the meeting at 8:09 p.m. (7-0).

Parks and Recreation Board

The Parks and Recreation Board will conduct a design review for renovations and additions to the Birmingham Ice Sports Arena. The board will also receive reports on capital projects and ice arena finances.

• Birmingham Ice Sports Arena Renovation/Additions Design Review
• Capital Projects Sub Committee Report from February 24, 2021
• Ice Arena Finance Report for the period ending January 31, 2021
• Discussion on portable toilets and park shelters within the park system
• Review of $11.25 million in planned parks and recreation improvements

The Parks and Recreation Board approved the design review for the Birmingham Ice Sports Arena renovation and additions, which includes expanded locker rooms, a new party room, and lobby renovation, with a target owner occupancy of September 20, 2021. The board also approved the minutes of the February 2, 2021 meeting as amended. No other formal actions were taken; all other items were discussion only.

• Approved the design review for the Birmingham Ice Sports Arena renovation and additions, meeting expectations for the project.
• Approved the minutes of the February 2, 2021 regular meeting as amended.

Planning Board

The Planning Board is reviewing Special Land Use Permit and Final Site Plan requests for two businesses on Old Woodward. The meeting includes a request for the Birmingham Pub and a proposal for the Vinewood Bistro.

• Special Land Use Permit Amendment and Final Site Plan for Birmingham Pub at 555 S. Old Woodward
• Special Land Use Permit and Final Site Plan for Vinewood Bistro at 720 N. Old Woodward

The Planning Board voted 7-0 to recommend approval to the City Commission for a revised final site plan and a special land use amendment for Birmingham Pub (formerly Triple Nickel) at 555 S. Old Woodward, with conditions including designating the Bowers elevation as principal frontage or reducing signage, removing illumination from the Woodward sign or obtaining a variance, and providing signage specifications. The Board also voted 7-0 to postpone discussion of the proposed Vinewood Bistro at 720 N. Old Woodward to the April 14, 2021 meeting, and voted 7-0 to suspend rules for that meeting to allow site plan review. The Board approved the February 10, 2021 minutes as amended, 7-0.

• Approved minutes of February 10, 2021 as amended, 7-0.
• Recommended approval of revised final site plan for Birmingham Pub at 555 S. Old Woodward with conditions, 7-0.
• Recommended approval of special land use amendment for Birmingham Pub at 555 S. Old Woodward with conditions, 7-0.
• Postponed discussion of Vinewood Bistro at 720 N. Old Woodward to April 14, 2021, 7-0.
• Suspended rules for April 14, 2021 meeting to allow site plan review, 7-0.
• Expressed no initial hesitations about Mad Hatter's expansion into adjacent space for outdoor dining.
• Expressed concerns about Brooklyn Pizza's proposed outdoor dining pods, with no approval granted.

Board of Ethics

The Birmingham Board of Ethics is meeting virtually to consider a request for an advisory opinion (Matter 2021-02) from the Library Board regarding Craft. The board will also approve minutes from its February 15, 2021 meeting and discuss scheduling its next meeting. No unfinished business is listed. Public comment will be accepted.

• Consideration of Matter 2021-02: Request for Advisory Opinion (Library Board - Craft)
• Approval of minutes from February 15, 2021
• Discussion of next scheduled meeting

The Board of Ethics considered an advisory opinion request from City Attorney Kucharek regarding potential conflicts of interest with Hubbell Roth Clark (HRC) and her relationship with Michael MacDonald. The Board closed the record and reached consensus that an ethical wall at Beier Howlett would suffice, but that the City should seek outside counsel for adversarial matters. No formal advisory opinion was issued at this meeting; Member Schrot will draft it.

• Approved minutes of November 20, 2020 (3-0)
• Closed record on Matter 2021-01 (3-0)
• Consensus: ethical wall at Beier Howlett adequate to avoid conflicts
• Consensus: City should retain outside counsel for adversarial HRC matters

City Commission

The Birmingham City Commission is meeting virtually to handle routine business including approving a $2.3 million warrant list, extending a towing contract, and setting a public hearing for a site plan at 555 S. Old Woodward. They will also consider a Community Development Block Grant application, a partial property tax exemption, and renewal of liquor licenses. Several appointments and recognitions are on the agenda.

• Warrant list of $2,305,575.75
• Extend towing contract with Bob Adams Towing for 2 years
• Public hearing for site plan at 555 S. Old Woodward (Triple Nickel to Birmingham Pub)
• CDBG application totaling $36,090 for yard services, senior services, minor home repair
• Renewal of Class B, C, and microbrewery liquor licenses for 2021

The Birmingham City Commission approved the renewal of 2021 liquor licenses for most restaurants, including 220 Restaurant and The Morrie, while setting public hearings for March 22, 2021, to consider objections to the license renewals of several establishments with code violations or outstanding taxes, including Birmingham Sushi, Community House, Hazel Ravines Downtown, Hyde Park Steakhouse, Mad Hatter, Pernoi, Social Kitchen, Tallulah Wine Bar and Bistro, Townsend Hotel/Rugby Grille, Vinotecca, and Rojo/Sidecar. The Commission also approved the consent agenda, the Oakland Together Restaurant Relief Grant Program interlocal agreement, a professional services agreement with Hubbell, Roth & Clark, Inc., the 2021-2022 Community Development Block Grant application, and the Annual Village Fair. Appointments were made for student representatives and Marla Kaftan to the Public Arts Board.

• Approved 2021 liquor license renewals for 27 establishments (unanimous)
• Set public hearings for March 22, 2021, to consider liquor license objections for 11 establishments (unanimous or 6-1)
• Approved consent agenda excluding items C and G (unanimous)
• Approved Oakland Together Restaurant Relief Grant Program interlocal agreement (unanimous)
• Extended professional services agreement with Hubbell, Roth & Clark, Inc. for 3 years (unanimous)
• Authorized 2021-2022 Community Development Block Grant application (unanimous)
• Approved Annual Village Fair June 2-6, 2021, contingent on permits and Covid-19 modifications (unanimous)
• Appointed Marla Kaftan to Public Arts Board as alternate (unanimous)

Board of Ethics

The Board of Ethics is meeting to review minutes from November 20, 2020. The board will also consider a request for an advisory opinion regarding Matter 2021-01 (Kucharek).

• Consideration of Matter 2021-01: Request for Advisory Opinion (Kucharek)

The Board of Ethics approved the majority opinion in ethics complaint #2020-01 against City Commissioner Clinton Baller, with Chairperson Robb dissenting. The board also selected Sophie Fierro-Share as the new chair, effective at the next meeting. The minutes were approved with corrections.

• Approved majority opinion for ethics complaint #2020-01 (2-1, Robb dissenting)
• Selected Sophie Fierro-Share as new Board of Ethics Chair (3-0)
• Approved minutes of September 11, 2020 as corrected (3-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a study session to review the Neighborhood Elements and Plans section of the first draft of the 2040 Birmingham Plan. The board will also review minutes from the December 9, 2020 meeting.

• Review of First Draft of 2040 Birmingham Plan (Section B. Neighborhoods)

The Planning Board held a study session to review the first draft of the 2040 Birmingham Plan, focusing on neighborhood elements. Seventeen residents spoke, and board members discussed various recommendations, but no formal decisions were made on the plan. The board also declined to administratively approve a proposed change to a screening wall at 2101 E. 14 Mile.

• Approved minutes of January 27, 2021 meeting as amended (7-0)
• Declined administrative approval for replacing brick screening wall with concrete masonry units at 2101 E. 14 Mile
• Requested quarterly report on site plan approvals not yet moved forward

Public Arts Board

The Public Arts Board is meeting to discuss and potentially finalize a public notification policy for public art installations, review 2021 goals, and consider sponsorship opportunities. The board will also receive updates on the Pyramid Earth sculpture and the wall art proposal.

• Public notification policy for public art installations, including 300-foot mail notices and signage
• Sponsorship opportunities ranging from $50 to $25,000+ for public art programs
• Pyramid Earth sculpture scheduled for City Commission hearing on February 8, 2021
• Wall art proposal to go to Design Review Board in March
• 2021 agenda items and goals discussion

The Birmingham Public Arts Board approved a motion to recommend requiring public notification for any hearing regarding public art, with a 7-0 vote. The board also discussed creating a donor/sponsor program with levels (platinum, gold, silver, bronze) to encourage art donations and loans, and asked staff to explore online donation capabilities. No new business was conducted.

• Approved motion to recommend public notification process for public art hearings (7-0)
• Approved minutes from January 21st, 2021 meeting (7-0)
• Discussed creating donor sponsor levels (platinum, gold, silver, bronze) for art funding
• Asked staff to investigate online donation capabilities for small contributions

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Birmingham Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a virtual public hearing on six appeals, five for dimensional variances and one for a use variance, related to residential and commercial properties. The board will decide whether to grant variances from the city's zoning ordinance, with decisions based on practical difficulty or hardship standards.

• 1208 Bird: 0.47 ft variance for side setback (21-02)
• 646 Chapin: 2.68 ft variance for side setback (21-03)
• 1021 Pleasant: 1103.70 sq ft variance for accessory structure (21-04)
• 1264 Bird: 0.70 ft variance for side setback (21-05)
• 2282 W Lincoln: dimensional variance (21-06)

The Birmingham Board of Zoning Appeals approved four of six variance requests, including three for new homes and one for a garage, and denied two others. A use variance for off-premise alcohol sales at 798 N Old Woodward was denied in a 4-3 vote, despite a proposed compromise with conditions. The board also approved the January 12, 2021 minutes as amended.

• Approved 0.47-ft setback variance at 1208 Bird (7-0)
• Approved 2.68-ft setback variance at 646 Chapin (6-1)
• Denied accessory structure variance at 1021 Pleasant (7-0)
• Approved 0.70-ft setback variance at 1264 Bird (7-0)
• Denied 4.50-ft side yard variance at 2282 W Lincoln (2-5)
• Denied use variance for alcohol sales at 798 N Old Woodward (4-3)
• Approved minutes of January 12, 2021 as amended (7-0)

City Commission

The Birmingham City Commission will hold public hearings and vote on a Special Land Use Permit for Tapper's Gold Exchange at 251 E. Merrill, and a lot combination at 469-479 S. Old Woodward. They will also consider accepting a sculpture donation, purchasing public engagement software, and approving a consent agenda with routine items like warrants, contracts, and event permits.

• Special Land Use Permit for Tapper's Gold Exchange at 251 E. Merrill, suite 236
• Lot combination of 469-479 S. Old Woodward, parcels 19-36-208-011 and 19-36-208-012
• Acceptance of 'Pyramid Earth' sculpture and $2,000 for granite base
• $14,900 for Bang the Table public engagement software license
• Warrant lists totaling $1,753,893.79 and $728,388.09

The Birmingham City Commission approved a Special Land Use Permit for Tapper’s Gold Exchange at 251 E. Merrill and a lot combination at 469-479 S. Old Woodward. The Commission also authorized the purchase of Bang the Table public engagement software for $14,900 and accepted a sculpture donation for Linden Park. Routine consent agenda items, including warrant lists and event permits, were approved.

• Approved Special Land Use Permit for Tapper’s Gold Exchange at 251 E. Merrill (7-0)
• Approved lot combination for 469-479 S. Old Woodward (6-0, Longe recused)
• Authorized purchase of Bang the Table software for $14,900 (7-0)
• Accepted 'Pyramid Earth' sculpture donation and approved $2,000 for base installation (7-0)
• Adopted Commission workshop routines and conduct (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda excluding prior minutes (7-0)
• Approved warrant lists totaling $2,482,281.88
• Set public hearing for March 8 for All Seasons 2 senior living facility

Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board

The Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board is meeting to discuss pricing and regulations. The board provides recommendations to the City Commission regarding cemetery rules, capital improvements, and future service demands.

• Grave pricing evaluation and recommendation
• Review of Greenwood Cemetery Rules & Regulations
• Plan for future landscaping
• Financial reports
• Cemetery sales and activity reports

The Greenwood Cemetery Advisory Board approved a motion to direct the City Clerk to coordinate with DPS and Creative Collaborations to schedule an arborist to assess and recommend future planting sites, including all board members in the consultation. The board also approved the January 8, 2021 minutes with amendments, and discussed grave pricing options and rules review priorities, but took no final action on those items.

• Approved motion to schedule arborist for planting site assessment (7-0)
• Approved January 8, 2021 minutes with amendments (7-0)

Museum Board

The Museum Board is meeting to review the 2021-22 budget updates and plan for the Celebrate Birmingham Virtual Parade in May. The board will also receive updates on the Long Range Plan and the Greenwood Cemetery GIS Database Project.

• 2021-22 Budget Updates
• Celebrate Birmingham Virtual Parade (May)
• Greenwood Cemetery GIS Database Project update
• Long Range Plan review
• Allen House windows RFP (bid deadline Feb. 26)

The Birmingham Museum Board approved the minutes from its January 7 meeting. Director Pielack reported on the Long Range Plan, including Parks Department providing bistro tables for the Allen House patio, and on the ongoing GIS Database project for Greenwood Cemetery. Budget requests for 2021-22 include a paint study and interior painting of the Hunter House, plus a modest staffing increase. No formal decisions were made on these items.

• Approved minutes of January 7, 2021 (5-0)

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board is considering an exterior renovation for the Piety Hill commercial building at 33202 Woodward. The proposal includes new paint, wall panels, lighting, and landscaping. Staff recommends approval provided the applicant submits a revised photometric plan for lighting intensity.

• Design review for 33202 Woodward – Piety Hill exterior renovations
• Proposed installation of 34 new light fixtures
• Proposed installation of 9 new landscaping beds with Dwarf Blue Lavender and Drift roses
• Proposed relocation of existing signage totaling 228 sq. ft.

The Birmingham Design Review Board approved the design review application for 33202 Woodward (Piety Hill) with conditions, including a revised photometric plan and a sign plan to be administratively approved. The board also approved the January 20, 2021 minutes. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved design review for 33202 Woodward – Piety Hill, with conditions (7-0)
• Approved DRB minutes of January 20, 2021 (6-0)

Parks and Recreation Board

The board will discuss the 2020 Annual Golf Report and a design consultant proposal for Adam’s Park. Other agenda items include updates on the Birmingham Ice Sports Arena and the Parks and Recreation Bond timeline.

• Annual Golf Report (2020 season recorded 64,027 combined rounds)
• Adam’s Park Design Consultant Proposal
• Birmingham Ice Sports Arena project updates and finance report
• Parks and Recreation Bond timeline discussion

The Board recommended awarding a design contract for Adams Park to Michael J. Dul & Associates and accepted the 2020 Annual Golf Report. Several items regarding the Birmingham Ice Sports Arena were discussed, but no formal actions were taken on those topics.

• Approved January 5, 2021 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Accepted 2020 Annual Golf Report and recommended it be forwarded to City Commission (7-0)
• Recommended awarding Adams Park Design Consultant project to Michael J. Dul & Associates for an amount not to exceed $7,675 and forwarded to City Commission (7-0)

Historic District Commission

The Birmingham Historic District Commission is meeting virtually to review a study session outline on promoting historic preservation, including potential programs like heritage home plaques and a '30 by 30' designation goal. They will also discuss a means and methods report for exploratory removal of travertine panels and mansard roof at 100 N. Old Woodward to assess the original brick facade. The agenda includes standard items like minutes approval, courtesy review, and staff reports.

• Study session on promoting historic preservation, including heritage home program and '30 by 30' designation goal
• Means and methods report for facade exploration at 100 N. Old Woodward (removal of 22 travertine tiles and mansard roof section)
• Approval of minutes from January 20, 2021
• Staff reports on administrative sign approvals, demolitions, and action list
• Draft agenda for March 3, 2021 meeting

The Historic District Commission approved the minutes from its January 2021 meeting. No design reviews or sign reviews were conducted. The commission agreed to use a proposed outline for a historic preservation workshop scheduled for March 3, 2021, and deferred further review of the 100 N. Old Woodward project until a new draft agreement is available.

• Approved January 20, 2021 minutes (6-0)
• Agreed to use proposed outline for March 3, 2021 historic preservation workshop
• Deferred review of 100 N. Old Woodward project pending new draft agreement
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Planning Board

The Birmingham Planning Board will hold a virtual meeting to review special land use permits and final site plans for several developments, including a new food and drink establishment at 856 N. Old Woodward and a senior living building at 219 Elm Street. The board will also consider a revised preliminary site plan for a mixed-use building at 35001 Woodward, which the applicant has requested to postpone to March 27, 2021. Other items include a final site plan for a medical office building at 2101 E. 14 Mile Road and a pre-application discussion for a property facing Watkins.

• Special land use permit for new food and drink establishment (no alcohol) at 856 N. Old Woodward (The Pearl)
• Special land use permit for new multi-family senior living building at 219 Elm Street (All Seasons Phase 2)
• Revised preliminary site plan for 5-story mixed use building at 35001 Woodward (The Maple) – postponement requested
• Final site plan and design review for medical/dental office building at 2101 E. 14 Mile Road
• Pre-application discussion for Brown and Watkins property facing Watkins

The Birmingham Planning Board recommended approval of a Special Land Use Permit for the All Seasons Phase 2 senior living building at 219 Elm Street, subject to conditions of the final site plan approval. The board postponed the Special Land Use Permit and Final Site Plan for Fruition at 856 N. Old Woodward to March 24, 2021, to allow the building owner and tenants to negotiate parking solutions. The board also approved a revised final site plan for a medical office building at 2101 E. 14 Mile Road and postponed a preliminary site plan review for The Maple at 35001 Woodward to March 24, 2021.

• Recommended approval of Special Land Use Permit for 219 Elm St. senior living (7-0)
• Postponed Fruition SLUP and Final Site Plan at 856 N. Old Woodward to March 24 (7-0)
• Approved Revised Final Site Plan for 2101 E. 14 Mile Rd. medical office (7-0)
• Postponed revised Preliminary Site Plan for 35001 Woodward to March 24 (7-0)
• Approved minutes of January 13, 2021 meeting (7-0)

City Commission

The Birmingham City Commission is meeting virtually to vote on several resolutions, including approving union contracts, releasing cemetery plots for sale, and deciding on a proposed lot combination. The commission will also consider a settlement agreement for a collective bargaining agreement and discuss a virtual celebration in place of the traditional parade.

• Resolution to release 14 plots in Section C, Row 18-A for sale in Greenwood Cemetery
• Resolution to approve use of five parking spaces in right-of-way adjacent to 856 N. Old Woodward
• Resolution to deny or postpone proposed lot combination of 34350 Woodward and 907-911 Haynes
• Resolution to approve settlement agreement with BFFA Local 911 for collective bargaining (July 1, 2020–June 30, 2023)
• Resolution to approve settlement agreement with AFSCME Local 998 for collective bargaining (July 1, 2020–June 30, 2023)

The Birmingham City Commission approved using five on-street parking spaces adjacent to The Pearl at 856 N. Old Woodward to meet the property's parking requirements, with a 6-1 vote. The commission also approved collective bargaining agreements with BFFA Local 911 and AFSCME Local 998, a corrected employment agreement for City Manager Markus, and postponed a lot combination hearing for 34350 Woodward and 907-911 Haynes to March 22, 2021. A motion to direct staff on workshops and meeting end times passed 6-1.

• Approved use of five parking spaces for The Pearl parking requirement (6-1)
• Approved BFFA Local 911 collective bargaining agreement (unanimous)
• Approved AFSCME Local 998 collective bargaining agreement (unanimous)
• Approved corrected employment agreement for City Manager Markus (unanimous)
• Postponed lot combination hearing for 34350 Woodward and 907-911 Haynes to March 22, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved virtual Celebrate Birmingham Parade for 2021 (unanimous)
• Directed staff to prepare workshops and end meetings at 10 p.m. on workshop nights (6-1)
• Authorized release of 14 cemetery plots in Section C, Row 18-A (unanimous)

City Commission

The Birmingham City Commission is holding a long-range planning session to discuss the five-year financial forecast, parks and recreation bond timeline, lead water line replacement and testing, infrastructure improvements, the 2040 Master Plan update, and various department initiatives. This is a discussion-only agenda; no formal action is scheduled on these items.

• Five-Year Financial Forecast
• Parks & Recreation Bond Timeline
• Lead Water Line Replacement and Testing Programs
• 2040 Master Plan Update
• Downtown Retail Attraction Program

The Birmingham City Commission held a long-range planning session covering finance, parks, infrastructure, planning, and departmental updates. No formal decisions or votes were recorded; all items were discussion-only. The Commission reached consensus on the S. Old Woodward project timeline and discussed priorities for pickleball courts, the Rouge River Trail, and lead water line replacements.

• Consensus to bid S. Old Woodward project by Fall 2021, construction starting Spring 2022
• Discussed expediting pickleball court installation for Spring 2021, possibly temporary
• Discussed moving Rouge River Trail up the priority list
• Discussed lead water line replacement program with $5,000 average cost per home
• Discussed backyard sewer lining program and easement issues
• Discussed 2040 Master Plan updates with resident feedback on density and seams
• Discussed green infrastructure and lot combination policy clarification
• Discussed Ice Arena financial forecast and $3.1 million proposed expenditure

Historic District Commission

The Birmingham Historic District Commission will hold a virtual meeting to review a design application to replace 15 non-historic vinyl windows on the 1980/90s addition of the Community House at 380 S. Bates. The commission will also consider approving the minutes from the January 6th meeting and receive staff reports on administrative approvals and demolitions. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 20th, 2021 at 7:00 PM via Zoom.

• Historic Design Review for window replacement at 380 S. Bates (Community House)
• Approval of minutes from the January 6, 2021 meeting
• Staff report on demolitions for December 2020
• Discussion of the draft agenda for the February 3rd meeting
• Report on administrative sign approvals