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Notice: Only variables should be assigned by reference in /home/avidp2/public_html/bhambuzz-org/system/plugins/pi.xml_encode.php on line 69 The Buzz Archives
http://www.bhambuzz.org/index.php/weblog/index/
encmballer@visa-master.comCopyright 20032003-11-04T17:53:42-05:00Number 63-BULLETIN-Nov. 4, 2003
http://www.bhambuzz.org/index.php/weblog/number_63_bulletin_nov_4_2003/
TODAY IS ELECTION DAY!
The Buzz supports McDaniel, Moore, McKeon and Plotnik
THE BIRMINGHAM BUZZ
"Cast your vote for intelligence and reason"
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Buzz supports McDaniel, Moore, McKeon and Plotnik
* Please remember to vote. Polls are open till 8.
* Please ask your friends and neighbors to vote. Phone them. Email them. Ask them to ask their friends and neighbors to vote. Don't break the chain!
* Please join us for a post-election party at 8 p.m. at Big Rock, Maple at S. Eton.
To be removed, send mail to info@bhambuzz.org
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BE INFORMED...GET INVOLVED...SPREAD THE WORD
Forward this email to friends, neighbors and others who are interested in EXCELLENCE for Birmingham.]]>2003-11-04T17:53:42-05:00Number 62-Nov. 3, 2003
http://www.bhambuzz.org/index.php/weblog/number_62_nov_3_2003/
1) Be an essential link in the chain of victory; take 15 minutes to phone 3-5 neighbors
2) Election Briefs: Nov. 3, 2003
3) Comment: Cast your vote for change—honesty, integrity, leadership and vision
THE BIRMINGHAM BUZZ
"Cast your vote for intelligence and reason"
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
VOTE NOV. 4!
The Buzz supports McDaniel, Moore, McKeon and Plotnik
In this edition:
1) Be an essential link in the chain of victory; take 15 minutes to phone 3-5 neighbors
2) Election Briefs: Nov. 3, 2003
3) Comment: Cast your vote for change -- honesty, integrity, leadership and vision
1) Crunch Time Dept.: Be an essential link in the chain of victory; take 15 minutes to phone 3-5 neighbors
Nov. 3, 2003
Elections like the one tomorrow can be won or lost by a single vote. Your participation, and the participation of sympathetic friends and neighbors, is essential for victory.
The Birmingham Buzz began publishing almost two years ago. Tomorrow is the culmination of an extraordinary effort and commitment.
We ask you to contribute by calling 3-5 friends and neighbors tonight.
Ask them to :
1) Vote.
2) Support Tom McDaniel, Scott Moore, Dianne McKeon and Julie Plotnik.
3) Call 3-5 of their friends and neighbors, asking them to do the same.
Together, we can restore intelligence and reason to city government.
2) Election Briefs: Nov. 3, 2003
Cops say what rest of City Hall thinks:
In a quarter-page ad in Sunday's Eccentric, the Birmingham Police Officers Association endorsed McDaniel, Moore, McKeon and Plotnik. Finally, somebody in City Hall stands up and publicly says what virtually everyone who works there for a paycheck has been thinking for more than a year now: It's time for a change. Did we see campaign signs in front of City Hall the other day?
Dixon's ditched wagon hitched to Lanzetta train:
We didn't feel great about leaving Russ Dixon behind when we made our endorsements a few weeks ago. But it was the right decision, and we could only hope that Dixon would remain independent. He is, at bottom, a decent man, and his presence on the Commission is far less damaging than Dante Lanzetta's. But politics and reality being what they are, we weren't overly surprised when Dixon signs began to appear alongside those of Lanzetta and running mates Seth Chafetz and Denise Grzech. What surprised us was that Dixon would allow the likes of Ralph Seger to include his name on a truly scurrilous piece of campaign garbage that went out last week. If he survives this election, Dixon will have a hard time living down his association with Lanzetta and Seger.
Who's buying his way into power?
Lanzetta, who habitually accuses anyone who opposes him of trying to "buy" their way into power, interestingly topped the list of campaign fundraisers so far, according to the Birmingham Eccentric. Lanzetta had raised $7,544. Challenger Julie Plotnik was the next biggest fundraiser, reporting $6,843. Lanzetta has blown away everyone, especially the other incumbents. Dianne McKeon reported contributions of $3,885; Seth Chafetz reported $2,920, and Russell Dixon a mere $1,385.
Elect who?
Candidate Albert Jackson Metzel (we've ignored him up till now for reasons that will become obvious momentarily) has been planting Electme.com signs around town without permission from property owners, and then has gotten indignant when they are removed. He considers them campaign signs, even though they don't contain a candidate's name, and even though they promote a commercial website. We've met Jack, and he seems to be a nice enough man. But behavior like this, along with his performances at recent candidates forums, has a lot of observers scratching their heads.
Sitting this one out?
Lanzetta cronies Paul Reagan and Peter Gough, who were so vocal in past elections with their underground newsletter The Be-Line, have been obviously absent this time around, at least obstensibly. Some of Lanzetta's campaign garbage bears their style, but they have mercifully spared us their presence at most public functions. Also absent from the Lanzetta campaign trail has been his chief hatchet-man Gary Kulak, chairman of the Planning Board. Lanzetta has continued to defend Kulak as "responsive," even as a majority of the Commission publicly says the Planning Board is "broken," and Kulak needs to be reprimanded, if not removed.
3) Comment: Cast your vote for change -- honesty, integrity, leadership and vision
Nov. 3, 2003
On the last day before the election, as we consider the issues and wrap things up, we can't help but think that honesty is the one, overriding issue.
It shouldn't be so difficult to figure out where the candidates all really stand on the issues. But when you have a cadre whose leader makes dishonesty a campaign strategy, well, the water begins to get a little muddy.
On one side, you have the Buzz-endorsed quartet of Tom McDaniel, Scott Moore, Dianne McKeon and Julie Plotnik. Only one is an incumbent. They don't agree on everything, but their stands are similar enough that many things can be said of all four. Throughout the campaign, they have respected the truth. We'll call them "the Good Guys."
On the other side stand Dante Lanzetta, Seth Chafetz, Russell Dixon and Denise Grzech. Three are incumbents. All (most regrettably Dixon) have abandoned honesty and integrity in their quest for continued power. We'll call them "the Other Guys."
So herewith is our rundown on the top five issues, and where the candidates really stand:
1. Lanzetta.
Yes, he is an issue unto himself, and perhaps the top issue in the campaign. Why? Because he has chosen to cap an 18-year career of public service by distinguishing himself as the most dishonest person in city government. One of his most outrageous and shameless lies occurred when he recently took credit for the Baldwin House senior citizens housing project. "Baldwin House would not stand today without the vision, support and hard work of Dante Lanzetta," he said. He went on to disgustingly claim that "Baldwin House residents owe their very homes to this man." In fact, Lanzetta had virtually nothing to do with the development or completion of Baldwin House. We could go on and on with specific examples of this man twisting and bending the truth to suit his objectives, and we'd be happy to do so. Suffice it to say here that he should be turned out of office. When you go to the polls tomorrow, be sure to cast four votes, because every vote not cast against Lanzetta is a possibl!
e vote in favor of him.
2. Development.
One of the most important issues in this campaign is also one of the least understood. It doesn't help matters when four radically anti-development candidates (the Other Guys) present themselves as moderates, and repeatedly and falsely make ridiculous claims about the true moderates (the Good Guys).
Here's where the Other Guys stand:
In the neighborhoods, they support a one-size-fits-all zoning ordinance that doesn't fit anything well. Lanzetta, who claims that he supports limits on so-called Bigfoot housing, actually voted against the Bigfoot Ordinance, claiming it didn't go far enough and it should be strengthened. Four years later, he's done nothing to bring back the issue. They talk vaguely about "neighborhood preservation," but they neglect our streets, sewers and parks -- even after we tell them in no uncertain terms (with the parks bond issue, with neighborhood petitions) that we want improvements and we're willing to pay for them.
With characteristic dishonesty, they propose to "win one for the neighborhoods" by supporting a costly, unnecessary and duplicative "historic survey" that would waste $500,000 of taxpayer money to photograph every home in Birmingham. It is nothing more than a thinly veiled attempt to further erode property rights and curtail residential redevelopment.
Also with characteristic dishonesty, they supported a tree ordinance that would have regulated trees on private property. Again, it was nothing more than a thinly veiled attempt to increase the cost and difficulty of improving your property. They abandoned the initiative after residents turned out by the hundreds to complain.
In the downtown, they have installed and supported a Planning Board that is openly hostile to property owners and unabashedly obstructs development. They have taken the world-class Downtown 2016 Plan, which was written by a world-class team of planners that considered the input of hundreds of residents in the process, and dumped it -- without ceremony, and without the kind of public input that went into the plan.
They have made no attempts whatsoever to encourage any sort of redevelopment, even though vacancies and prime opportunities for redevelopment abound.
Adding insult to injury, they have been openly hostile to the Principal Shopping District and its board.
Here's where the Good Guys stand:
In the neighborhoods, to regulate Bigfoot and other residential development, they support the detailed Planning Board recommendations that were rejected in favor of the one-size-fits-all ordinance four years ago. The recommendations were developed by a past Planning Board populated by professionals. They recognized that lot sizes and neighborhood characteristics vary.
The Good Guys support the Parks & Recreation Master Plan, and understand that when we voted in favor of the Parks Bond Issue, we voted in favor of improvements. They will move on Booth Park, Shain Park and Poppleton Park, and make sure that Quarton Lake is wrapped up and ready for use by next summer. And they will insure that Barnum School, a worthwhile city investment, does not become a burden on taxpayers.
They support a reasonable resolution of the sewer-lateral issue, and believe that if a group of residents such as those on Harmon St. petition for street improvements, and 70% support the petition, then the improvements ought to be granted, not delayed.
In the downtown, they are firm believers in the original 2016 Plan, which called for three- and four-story buildings. They believe the best development is achieved when city officials cooperate with, rather than antagonize, property owners. They believe in encouraging and influencing the redevelopment of such properties as the former Shell and Sunoco gas stations, rather than discouraging and obstructing those redevelopments.
Underlying the Good Guys' stand on development is the basic understanding that the Headlee Amendment and Proposition A have changed municipal finance. Under these state-imposed laws, one of the only ways to increase income from taxes (and keep pace with inflation and rising costs) is to allow for development and redevelopment. Furthermore, you get the kind of development you want by cooperating with and cajoling developers, not by butting heads with them.
3. Fiscal Responsibility.
The City of Birmingham enjoys a AAA bond rating, which means that it pays its bills and has excellent credit. It didn't come about, as Lanzetta dishonestly claims, because of the policies of the commission over the past two years. It came about because of sound fiscal management by the city administration. It doesn't mean we are flush with cash. In fact, our reserves are dwindling, in part because of the unsound fiscal management of our City Commission over the past two years.
The Other Guys think it's OK to spend $1 million on a sidewalk to nowhere over the Adams Street Bridge, and $500,000 on a so-called historic survey. They think it's OK to look a gifthorse like the Michigan Department of Transportation -- which was willing to spend some $100,000 to improve the dangerous intersection south of the 555 Building -- in the mouth, and rudely send them packing. They think nothing of spending $50,000 to investigate the developers of the Willits Condominium, only to find that it was an exceptionally well-done project. They ignore the importance of downtown redevelopment to our bottom line, and have absolutely no financial plan for the day when our reserves are gone and the only alternative will be to increase taxes or cut services. Three of them recently voted to increase taxes, and none has promised no new tax hikes.
The Good Guys understand finance. McDaniel is a former top executive at General Motors who ran the company's Far East operations. Moore is a former commissioner with a firm grasp of the budget process. Plotnik is a financial professional whose background is such that even her political enemies voted to appoint her to the city's General Investment Committee. The Good Guys have promised no new tax increases. And they intend to keep the promise by working on increasing our tax base instead. They have a plan.
4. Micromanagement of the city administration.
Privately ask any employee at City Hall about morale, and you will hear about a crisis. Four city planners have quit in the past two years. More departures are imminent. Police and firefighters have been working without a contract for months. The city manager, a highly competent professional who once set the agenda for commission meetings and was one of the most vocal participants, now sits mute most of the time.
Despite having few professional qualifications, the Other Guys think they know how to run city government, and aren't shy about it. Commission meetings routinely run past midnight as the incumbents delve into every possible detail of every possible issue of administration. Commission meetings become the training ground for inexperienced, incompetent officials. Even someone like Dixon, with a relevant background in architecture, routinely abdicates any leadership role when design issues come before the commission. Appointed cronies stalk City Hall, ordering employees around. The Other Guy incumbents have appointed to our Planning Board a sculptor, a part-time dermatologist and a public defender.
It's no wonder that most City Hall employees want a change, and that the Police union courageously has come out publicly in support of the Good Guys.
The Good Guys understand the meaning of "stewardship" and "leadership." They understand that you hire and appoint competent professionals, and let them do their work.
5. Property rights.
When you buy into a community, you expect to abide by the rules. No one expects to be free from regulation. But when the rules change as often as the wind, and when the people making the rules have ulterior motives, it's time for a change.
Thousands of Birmingham homes and businesses have been rendered non-conforming -- that means technically "illegal" -- by rule changes imposed by the Other Guy incumbents. Measure the height of your home's roof. If it's more than 30 feet to the peak, and a tree falls on it, then forget about restoring it to its original state. This is just one example.
In the downtown, rule changes regarding heights -- even of shorter three-story buildings -- prevent property owners from constructing buildings with marketable commercial space. The Other Guys would have you believe these are "reasonable" restrictions, and that by criticizing them, the Good Guys support "unbridled development." That's just plain dishonest, and the Other Guys know it.
Does some development continue? In our downtown, nothing new is in progress. In our neighborhoods, the answer is yes. Is it the best kind of development, in keeping with the character of our neighborhoods? No. When you can't build a tudor home, when the Allen House and the Marshall Fredericks House would be illegal today, when residents still complain about the size and character and imposition of new construction, there's a problem.
When the incumbents propose an ordinance that would have required you to obtain a permit to trim a tree in your own backyard, there's a problem.
It's time for a change. Vote tomorrow -- and urge your friends and neighbors to vote -- for honesty, integrity, leadership and vision. Vote for Tom McDaniel, Scott Moore, Dianne McKeon and Julie Plotnik.
To be removed, send mail to info@bhambuzz.org
{{PERIOD}}
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BE INFORMED...GET INVOLVED...SPREAD THE WORD
Forward this email to friends, neighbors and others who are interested in EXCELLENCE for Birmingham.]]>2003-11-03T17:52:27-05:00Number 61-Oct. 30, 2003
http://www.bhambuzz.org/index.php/weblog/number_61_oct_30_2003/
1) Comment: Fat Cat Seger tries to buy election
2) City budget summary is posted
3) Comment: Election fliers best suited for trash
4) Both theaters may get new owners
5) City may toughen teen drinking law
6) Tougher drinking law draws support
7) Comment: City should listen to residents
8) Letter: Eccentric’s picks lack gender balance
9) Letter: Eccentric should have endorsed Plotnik
10) Letter: Don’t fall for Lanzetta’s scare tactics
THE BIRMINGHAM BUZZ
"Cast your vote for intelligence and reason"
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
VOTE NOV. 4!
The Buzz supports McDaniel, Moore, McKeon and Plotnik
In this edition:
1) Comment: Fat Cat Seger tries to buy election
2) City budget summary is posted
3) Comment: Election fliers best suited for trash
4) Both theaters may get new owners
5) City may toughen teen drinking law
6) Tougher drinking law draws support
7) Comment: City should listen to residents
8) Letter: Eccentric's picks lack gender balance
9) Letter: Eccentric should have endorsed Plotnik
10) Letter: Don't fall for Lanzetta's scare tactics
1) Comment: Fat Cat Seger tries to buy election
Oct. 30, 2003
We've been wondering lately how one would buy an election in Birmingham.
We started thinking about it a few weeks ago after Commissioner Dante Lanzetta accused us of forming "a political action committee to raise thousands and thousands of dollars to hire high-priced political consultants to help them 'buy' this election."
We reminded you then that our PAC is a grassroots organization that has collected approximately $6,000 in small donations from the residents about whom Lanzetta claims to care so much. We also were quite straightforward about one of our primary goals: to unseat Lanzetta.
We came up with a few tongue-in-cheek ideas about how we could buy the election. We thought about hiring Tonya Harding to "hit" Seth Chafetz. We thought of buying back the police horse, running him at Hazel Park, and betting our wad on him to place. We even thought about buying a vowel for Denise Grzech. We figured our best (and most expensive) shot would be to buy free sewer laterals for everybody.
But seriously, we couldn't figure out a way to buy your votes if we wanted to.
Until now.
It appears that Lanzetta and his longtime crony Ralph Seger are quite adept at buying elections. Here's how they do it:
Seger, Fat Cat from a wayback, supplies the dough. The Quarton Lake Estates resident has been active in local politics for several years. He currently serves as chairman of the Barnum Study Committee, which has been dragging its feet for more than a year now trying to figure out what to do with Barnum School. Each election, Seger donates the maximum to each of his chosen candidates: $500 for himself, and $500 for his wife. In this election, the maximum adds up to $4,000. Then he forms a PAC (this time it's called Residential Action), and donates the max to his PAC. So now you have one man ponying up $5,000 to influence your vote.
Lanzetta, a master at using lies to monger fear, supplies the propaganda.
The result: Garbage in your mailbox like the piece that went out this week. In it, Seger's candidates are painted as saints, and everybody else as evil. We won't dignify the garbage by repeating it. But if you read it, look for facts, quotes or voting records. You won't find them.
What you'll find is a blatant attempt to instill fear by painting Lanzetta and his Radical Antis as moderates, and the true moderates as radicals. This is a time-honored and occasionally succcessful tactic. Don't buy into it, and don't let your friends and neighbors buy into it.
As we get deeper and deeper into Crunch Time, the candidates' true colors begin to show. It happened last time around, when a phony mailer went out that purported to be from developers in support of the moderate candidates. It was actually from the Radical Antis, and was probably financed by Fat Cat Seger.
This time, at least Seger put his home address on the garbage he's sending out.
2) City budget summary is posted
Oct. 28, 2003
Buzz readers can now access the 2003-2004 Approved Budget in Brief by clicking on the link in the right-hand column of our home page or simply by visiting http://www.bhambuzz.org/pdfs/budget.pdf. To download to your computer, simply right-click the link and choose Save Target As... The document was taken from the city's website at http://www.ci.birmingham.mi.us.
3) Comment: Election fliers best suited for trash
Oct. 26, 2003
>From the Birmingham Eccentric
By Joe Bauman
The window in my Maple Road office overlooks Poppleton Park, one of Birmingham's truly great neighborhoods. I have enjoyed countless walks along its streets, admiring the uniqueness of each house, the well-tended lawns and the mature trees.
The home directly across from my third-floor office has a large maple tree abutting the property line, and each autumn my colleagues and I anticipate its explosion into a riot of yellows, oranges and reds.
Just like it is now.
But just as sure as that maple tree is a true sign of fall, so is something else happening in my adopted neighborhood: Mailboxes all along those tree-lined streets are being stuffed with campaign brochures for next month's city commission elections.
I've been involved in covering plenty of local elections in the dozen years I have worked in Birmingham. By most accounts, this year's commission race is surprisingly quiet, given the fact that four of the seven commission seats are up for grabs and the community is at a significant crossroads of what kind of town it wants to be.
There isn't a whole lot of money being spent by the candidates, who seem to be content with letting their campaign brochures speak for themselves.
And that's too bad, because campaign brochures are like elbows Ð everyone has them, and they all pretty much look alike.
Campaign brochures are a glaring example of the power of incumbency. The folks already in office get to take credit for all things good in the community, whether they had anything to do with it or not, or even supported whatever it is they are not trumpeting.
This plays particularly well for Dante Lanzetta, the dean of the commission who is completing his 18th year on the commission.
Lanzetta's brochures make it sound like he single-handedly built Birmingham into the fine city it is.
For instance, Lanzetta takes credit for a thriving central business district and points to his support of both the Birmingham Principal Shopping District and the city's 2016 Plan as important tools in keeping it healthy.
Funny thing is, he has expressed a good amount of disdain for both in the past couple of years, but hey, that's politics, and Lanzetta has every right to take credit for all of the city's successes.
And curiously, Lanzetta takes credit for the construction of the Baldwin House, and in the same brochure trumpets the support of former Birmingham mayor and county commissioner Donald Jensen, who did everything in his power to block the subsidized senior housing development.
But Lanzetta is not alone in this practice. The other incumbents are doing the same thing, as do incumbents in every election in every city in America. That's how the game works.
So where does that leave the challengers? They are forced to either criticize their opponents, or drone on about how they are for clean and safe neighborhoods, quality schools and strong family values.
Spare me.
In all my years covering elections, I still haven't run across the candidate who is against clean and safe neighborhoods, favors crappy schools and wants an adult entertainment venue on every street corner.
My advice is the next time you receive a piece of campaign literature, throw it in the trash. If you really want to get to know your local candidates, read about them in the newspaper, attend a candidate forum, or pick up the phone and call them.
You'll get a much better idea of who they are, and what they really stand for.
Joe Bauman is managing editor for the Eccentric Newspapers.
4) Both theaters may get new owners
Oct. 26, 2003
>From the Birmingham Eccentric
With the departure of the power couple that opened both of Birmingham's movie theaters, speculation is swirling that the leases on both theaters may soon be sold to another company.
David Trepeck and Carole Ilitch Trepeck, who moved from Birmingham to California, founded Uptown Entertainment, a subsidiary of Ilitch Holdings, and spent some $7 million to renovate the Birmingham Theatre at 211 S. Old Woodward.
The theater revived that section of town and the couple later opened the Uptown Palladium 12 at 250 N. Old Woodward to rave reviews. The Palladium is a 73,000-square-foot complex with 12 auditoriums, 2,650 seats and wall-to-wall curved screens.
Both theaters are successful -- so much so that extra police were called in over the summer to handle throngs of teens hanging out in the city's burgeoning entertainment district.
The Trepaks didn't own the buildings that housed the theaters so a potential sale is for the leases and the ongoing theater operations.
The owners of both buildings said Friday that they have heard the leases are being quietly shopped around but that they wouldn't know of a deal until it is signed. Officials at Uptown entertainment had no comment.
5) City may toughen teen drinking law
Oct. 26, 2003
>From the Birmingham Eccentric
Throwing a teen beer bash won't be easy and those who do will be punished, said Cmdr. John VanGorder, of the Birmingham police.
"We want to make people accountable for their actions," said VanGorder.
Under proposed changes to the city ordinance against house parties, teens could be fined up to $500 or spend 90 days in jail for having or attending a house party where alcohol or other controlled substances are offered to minors. Though police typically ticket people who supply the alcohol, teens could be ticketed for attending a party even if they aren't drinking.
And the rules eliminate the age-old excuse that someone else brought the beer. "People will be compelled to break up the party or call the police if someone brings alcohol," said VanGorder.
Under the new rules that will be up for possible adoption by the Birmingham City Commission Monday, teens are required to either break up a party or call police if alcohol or drugs are present at a party.
Birmingham Police Chief Richard Patterson said the ordinance has been on the books since 1994 but the changes will offer better enforcement options. He also said teen drinking isn't a major problem in the city.
"In the '70s and early '80s, parents were having keggers for their kids' graduation parties," said Patterson. "They thought as long as they kept everyone on the property it was OK. But that kind of thing isn't going on anymore."
But that isn't to say that teens aren't partying when their parents are gone.
Last year, parents and educators intercepted invitations to a house party that promised alcohol. And a section of the yearbook from Birmingham Seaholm High School explored the topic of teen drinking at house parties. The feature quoted several teens who basically said drinking was a part of growing up. The remarks caused a minor uproar with some parents, but others said teen drinking was a fact of life.
According to police statistics, three tickets were issued for house parties last year compared to one the year before. And just five minors were arrested on alcohol charges last year compared with 10 in 2001.
Teens can also be ticketed for drinking and drug use under state law.
The meeting is at 8 p.m. at city hall, 151 Martin.
6) Tougher drinking law draws support
Oct. 26, 2003
>From the Birmingham Eccentric
The success of any new ordinance dealing with underage drinking at house parties will depend largely on how many people know about it, according to some Birmingham teens and parents.
On Monday, Birmingham City Commissioners will vote on whether to shore up their ordinance dealing with underage drinking at house parties to include $500 fines and possible jail time for anyone hosting a party where alcohol is provided to minors.
"There's always the traditional situation where the parents go out of town and the children throw a party without them knowing, but our real problem here and in other communities comes from parents' attitudes that it's all right for kids to have alcohol at parties as long as they know about it," said Peter Mueller, a parent of a Seaholm High School senior.
The new rule comes with the full support of the Birmingham Community Coalition, a group focused on preventing teen substance abuse and one upon which Mueller serves as a board member.
Coalition Director Lisa Machesky said the group fully supports the city's effort to stiffen its ordinance against underage drinking and hopes it provides some momentum in its fight to change public attitudes on the subject.
"We still have parents who believe it's OK for kids to drink a little as long as they are doing it at home," Machesky said.
The Coalition is borrowing a page from the Ohio Parents for a Drug Free Youth group to help in its efforts to get the word out about changes in alcohol laws whose Parents who Host Lose the Most, campaign has helped to change laws in 30 states.
"This is a great title and what that does is helps us to get the message out to the parents. Parents know this is specifically targeted to them and that's important," said Patricia Harmon, the group's executive director.
Harmon said stiffening laws against parents and teens who host parties where alcohol is served to minors is only half of the equation.
"It's kind of a carrot and a stick type thing. The tougher laws are like the stick telling parents and teens that they have to change their behavior or face the consequences. The carrot comes in after a while when we begin to see that people are banding together and changing their thinking on the subject," Harmon said.
For students like Seaholm senior John Zervos the changed laws are a good idea provided people know about them.
The ordinance eliminates a party host's ability to claim ignorance in cases where underage bring alcohol.
"I think people have to take responsibility for their own actions," he said.
Mueller agrees but said he understands putting the brakes on a house party can be difficult for a teen.
"I think it's tough and it takes a lot of maturity and courage. I think it helps if the parents are sending a clear message that drinking is just not tolerated in their house. I think if the other kids know that it can take the pressure off a little. With my kids, there were times I knew some of the other kids didn't come over because that was the rule," Mueller said.
7) Comment: City should listen to residents
Oct. 23, 2003
>From the Birmingham Eccentric
Three times the majority of residents on Harmon Street have petitioned the city commission to have their street paved.
For years, the city has placed temporary coatings on the street to such a point that the crown in the road now rises several inches above the sidewalk. Consequently, when it rains, the sidewalks flood.
The frustrated residents circulated petitions three times asking the city to finally pave the street and properly end the mess. More than 70 percent of residents in the affected area signed the petitions, which were presented to the city commission.
But the commission has refused to act. Several residents from surrounding streets have opposed the paving, saying it would destroy the rustic nature of the neighborhood.
That may be true, but it is also true that those who complained do not live on the street. It's not their front yards that are being flooded.
The majority of residents on Harmon have made it clear they want the repaving and they are willing to pay for it. Their voice should carry far louder than those who oppose the paving, but don't live on the street.
The underlying issue isn't asphalt - it's accountability and responsibility. The city commission has the responsibility to listen to all sides of an issue and make a measured judgment.
The commission has done half of its job. It's listened. Now it has to do the rest and accede to the will of the reasonable majority.
Pave the street.
8) Letter: Eccentric's picks lack gender balance
Oct. 23, 2003
The Birmingham Eccentric endorsements for the Nov. 4 city commission election are generally fair and thoughtful. I especially appreciate that in its support of some of the incumbents the Eccentric takes them to task for their lack of leadership over the past four years.
However, the newspaper's endorsements show an obvious disregard for gender balance. The Birmingham City Commission has always lacked appropriate female representation. I urge voters to select candidates that accurately represent our community by considering some our fine female leaders.
Shelli Weisberg
Birmingham
9) Letter: Eccentric should have endorsed Plotnik
Oct. 23, 2003
I am sorely disappointed by the Eccentric's endorsements for the position of Birmingham City Commissioner.
Certainly Julie Plotnik has the leadership qualities, business savvy and vision to help lead our city. For the past several years, Plotnik has worked tirelessly as a watchdog for the citizens of this community, regularly attending city commission meetings and staying abreast of the issues impacting Birmingham families.
Plotnik is a 12-year resident of Birmingham who has worked diligently to ensure that Birmingham moves forward as a vibrant community. She is an active parent in the public schools, works in downtown Birmingham and recently co-founded the successful Birmingham Farmers' Market.
Plontik is a dynamic woman who can bring balance, sensibility and vision to our city commission. She is a voice for the families of Birmingham, a voice that can provide stability and promote cooperation. Julie Plotnik is a woman who will work hard for our community and soundly lead it into the future.
Cathie Badalamenti
Birmingham
10) Letter: Don't fall for Lanzetta's scare tactics
Oct. 23, 2003
I am writing you this letter to voice my concerns regarding the current election for city commission. I moved to Birmingham in February of 2002 with the promise of a safe well-educated, fiscally responsible community and have since become concerned. I am now reading numerous pamphlets of propaganda that promise the stability I sought in my initial decision to move here.
If you actually read what some of these people are saying you will realize that most of their statements are false and baseless. What or who am I to believe? The candidate's rhetoric is confusing.
Dante Lanzetta, for instance, writes that he is passionate and outspoken against Bigfoot houses and for managing the size of down town development. What is a BIG FOOT house anyway? Is Mr. Lanzetta over-simplifying this issue and trying to scare us? Mr. Lanzetta is strongly urging me to vote against other candidates by expecting me to believe that they are for unchecked development and enormous homes.
Once again, he is using a scare tactic to confuse us. In my short time here I have only been able to draw the conclusion that the current city commission and planning board members are making critical decisions without any knowledge of the material they are ruling on. I have attended a few HDDRC meetings and have been appalled by the lack of professionalism there. Bill Dow, who has signed some of the letters being distributed, sits on the HDDRC board. He has done nothing but shoot from the hip on every issue put in front of him.
He makes decisions based on his aesthetic tastes and gut feelings, not pertinent information and real knowledge. I have seen him vote against a request simply because he doesn't like it.
The bottom line is that some candidates are claiming to have expertise and are currently working in areas they know nothing about. Concerned citizens who read their letters and take their claims as fact are being misled.
I encourage Birmingham residents to get the facts from candidates instead of relying on political rhetoric.
Robert Hewer
Birmingham
To be removed, send mail to info@bhambuzz.org
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Forward this email to friends, neighbors and others who are interested in EXCELLENCE for Birmingham.]]>2003-10-30T17:51:24-05:00Number 60-BULLETIN-Oct. 29, 2003
http://www.bhambuzz.org/index.php/weblog/number_60_bulletin_oct_29_2003/
Help deliver door-hangers this weekend!
THE BIRMINGHAM BUZZ
"Cast your vote for intelligence and reason"
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neighbors for a Better Birmingham needs your help distributing approximately 4,500 door-hangers to the homes of Birmingham voters this weekend. It's a great way to get outside, get some exercise and so some civic good!
The door-hangers support candidates Tom McDaniel, Scott Moore, Dianne McKeon and Julie Plotnik.
Volunteers are asked to devote two hours (more or less) to the job. We will provide you with the door-hangers and a list of addresses of registered voters who participate in local elections.
Volunteers should:
1. Send an email with your name and phone number to coordinator Shelli Weisberg at smweisberg@comcast.net. If you have already volunteered, you need not do this.
2. Pick up your supplies between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday at 124 Peabody, the office of Christopher Longe & Associates Architects. You may park free in the old Shell station across the street at Woodward and Maple.
3. Deliver your door-hangers sometime Saturday or Sunday. Delivery must occur on these days.
4. Return the list of addresses to Weisberg, or phone her, upon completion.
If you have any questions, please feel free to phone Weisberg at (248) 535-7112.
To be removed, send mail to info@bhambuzz.org
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Forward this email to friends, neighbors and others who are interested in EXCELLENCE for Birmingham]]>2003-10-29T17:50:58-05:00Number 59-Oct. 17, 2003
http://www.bhambuzz.org/index.php/weblog/number_59_oct_17_2003/
1) Comment: Your vote will determine whether city struggles or thrives economically
2) Comment: Eccentric was only half right
3) Comment: Eccentric backs McDaniel, Moore, Chafetz and Dixon for city commission
4) Comment: Lanzetta shamelessly takes credit for Baldwin House, enlists project’s chief foe
5) Majority of commission says ‘fix’ Plan Board
6) Apply for absentee ballot if you can’t get to polls
7) Officials jockey for Ryder Cup committee
8) City on the prowl for wolf-dogs
9) Office building planned for downtown gateway
10) Dixon wants to keep bringing order to commission
11) Sign on to sign, distribute campaign handout
THE BIRMINGHAM BUZZ
"Cast your vote for intelligence and reason"
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1) Comment: Your vote will determine whether city struggles or thrives economically
2) Comment: Eccentric was only half right
3) Comment: Eccentric backs McDaniel, Moore, Chafetz and Dixon for city commission
4) Comment: Lanzetta shamelessly takes credit for Baldwin House, enlists project's chief foe
5) Majority of commission says 'fix' Plan Board
6) Apply for absentee ballot if you can't get to polls
7) Officials jockey for Ryder Cup committee
8) City on the prowl for wolf-dogs
9) Office building planned for downtown gateway
10) Dixon wants to keep bringing order to commission
11) Sign on to sign, distribute campaign handout
1) Comment: Your vote will determine whether city struggles or thrives economically
Oct. 17, 2003
On Tuesday, Nov. 4, Birmingham voters will elect four City Commissioners, We urge you to vote for Tom McDaniel, Dianne McKeon, Scott Moore and Julie Plotnik.
We're supporting only one incumbent -- McKeon -- because change is desperately needed on the Commission. This election will determine whether Birmingham thrives or struggles economically over the next decade; whether city services will be maintained or cut, and whether our tax burden will decrease or increase.
We think the current Commission is irresponsible and headed in the wrong direction.
They are not minding our municipal checkbook. They are voting to spend foolishly on such pet projects as the $1 million Adams Rd. sidewalk-to-nowhere and an unnecessary -- and costly -- "historic survey" of every home in Birmingham. They are focused on overbearing legislation that threatens our property rights and privacy -- the tree ordinance, the ethics ordinance, the historic survey, and more.
Their micromanagement of a capable city staff has resulted in a crisis in morale at City Hall. A Planning Board that many Commissioners call "responsive" is called "broken" by McKeon, who has demanded the chairman's removal.
Current Commissioners give only lip service to "neighborhood preservation," but what have they really accomplished for our neighborhoods? Many streets are falling apart, and they have neglected many of our parks and other public spaces.
McDaniel, McKeon, Moore and Plotnik understand the proper role of Commissioners in the administration of our city.
Their idea of fiscal responsibility is fiscal conservatism: They will focus on how to manage a municipality in the face of such tax-limiting laws as the Headlee Amendment and Proposition A. They will keep out of your business (and out of your backyard!); they will let city staffers do their jobs, and they will respect your judgment.
For example, when we voted two years ago in favor of a $25 million parks bond issue, we said we wanted improvements. Two years later, few have been made. We purchased Barnum School a year ago, but since then, the Commission has made little progress in determining its future.
Another example: When Birmingham residents participated in the Downtown Birmingham 2016 Plan several years ago, we helped chart a course for reasonable development of our downtown -- the kind of development that would bolster our tax base and help pay for the city services we have all come to expect.
But the current Commission has turned its back on the judgment of the community and a team of eminent city planners, and along with appointed cronies on the Planning Board, gutted the 2016 Plan and pursued a strategy of open hostility to virtually anyone willing to invest in our town.
The result: Our city's reserve accounts are dwindling, and city services, including police and fire protection, are at risk. Without fiscal responsibility and conservatism, there will be no alternative but to increase your taxes.
The choice is simple on Nov. 4: You can stick with an overbearing Commission and see services cut, taxes increased and our city struggle. Or elect McDaniel, McKeon, Moore and Plotnik for a more responsible government that will truly preserve our neighborhoods.
2) Comment: Eccentric was only half right
Oct. 17, 2003
The Birmingham Eccentric got it right this week when it endorsed Tom McDaniel and Scott Moore for City Commission. But it missed the mark with its endorsements of Russell Dixon and Seth Chafetz.
We agree with the Eccentric that it's time for Commissioner Dante Lanzetta to be turned out of office. Many astute observers of Birmingham city government believe this election will be won or lost on the outcome for Lanzetta. That's partly true, because with Lanzetta gone, a dark cloud will be lifted from the city, no matter who wins.
But there are good reasons why Dianne McKeon and Julie Plotnik should be elected, and Dixon and Chafetz should not.
One of the most obvious reasons to favor McKeon and Plotnik is the simple notion that more than one woman ought to sit on the seven-member commission. The Eccentric apparently would be happy with only one: Rackeline Hoff. We wouldn't.
We think the Eccentric was way off the mark when it said of McKeon: "It's time for a more involved and connected person." McKeon may have some shortcomings when it comes to leadership and an ability and willingness to speak out, but if she is anything, it is involved and connected. We think McKeon has already begun to show leadership and courage in speaking out with her call for the resignation of Planning Board Chairman Gary Kulak.
Julie Plotnik is simply a better representative of many Birmingham residents than Dixon or Chafetz.
As for those candidates: The Eccentric was 100% on the mark when it said Chafetz "has wavered." The fact is, one never knows how Chafetz is going to vote because he has been so susceptible to political pressure from Lanzetta and commissioners Donald Carney and Gordon Thornsby. We think Chafetz has compromised principles several times to keep in the good graces of Lanzetta's crowd.
Dixon, on the other hand, is capable of leadership but too often abdicates his responsibilities. He says too little too late too often. He is intelligent and reasonable, but he rarely tries to persuade anyone of anything. Furthermore, he holds himself out as the design professional on the commission, but he has shown little inclination for leadership on the many, many design issues that the commission has faced over the years.
The Eccentric was right: It's time for change. Three excellent candidates promise change for the better: McDaniel, Moore and Plotnik. And McKeon is the incumbent most likely to go with their flow.
3) Comment: Eccentric backs McDaniel, Moore, Chafetz and Dixon for city commission
>From the Birmingham Eccentric
Oct. 16, 2003
It would be an overstatement to say that Birmingham is at a critical juncture in its history, but clearly the city has drifted from the course it should be taking to ensure a solid future as one of Michigan's best communities.
Overall, the city commission has let politics and personal philosophies overshadow what is best for the town's 18,000-plus residents. The rigid, anti-development stance of some of the commissioners coupled with questionable spending decisions and ill-conceived proposals such as the ethics law and the original tree ordinance shows that some of the commissioners have lost touch with residents.
It's time to make some changes. Four seats on the city commission will be on the ballot in the Nov. 4 general election, and as the absentee ballots go out to voters this week, we urge voters to re-elect incumbents Seth Chafetz and Russell Dixon and support challengers Tom McDaniel and Scott Moore.
Chafetz, who currently serves as mayor, has wavered on some issues but ultimately has shown flexibility to make decisions based on facts and in the best interest of the residents. He promotes himself as an independent thinker, but he needs to demonstrate that more. Dixon also has demonstrated steady leadership and a reasonable approach to the development of the city and the way business should be conducted.
McDaniel is making an impressive first run at office. He clearly has an understanding of the issues facing Birmingham and has a solid vision for the future. His background as a General Motors executive no doubt helps in focusing on what needs to be done, but he also has a common-sense approach to problems that is refreshing and promising.
Moore is not a newcomer. He served on the city commission from 1995 to 1999 and did a turn as mayor. He has the experience and an understanding of Birmingham that a commissioner needs. Further, he has the vision of what Birmingham needs to be, which is neither heavily developed nor frozen in some impossible vision of returning Birmingham to a small, rural town.
And that brings us to our non-endorsements. Incumbent Dianne McKeon has consistently provided a lackluster performance on the commission when the city needs dynamic leadership. It's time for a more involved and connected person.
As for Commissioner Dante Lanzetta, he has given many years of productive service to the city, having been a commissioner for 18 years.
But he should have learned by now that by taking a virulent anti-development stance he is doing harm to the city. We do not advocate unbridled development. We have consistently stressed the need for balance.
Lanzetta has tipped the scales so far to the anti-side to the point that the city is suffering. Birmingham is developing a reputation as a place not to do business.
Lanzetta has lost sight that Birmingham needs to evolve and can do so without destroying its character as a community of neighborhoods surrounding a business core.
Unfortunately, Lanzetta has shown no indication of seeking a compromise path, and indeed, his campaign literature plays on the fears that development will ruin the city.
Fear may be an effective campaign tool, but it is not good foundation on which to build city policy.
Dante Lanzetta achieved a new low this week in his desperate bid for City Commission when he shamelessly took credit -- not once but twice -- for the Baldwin House senior citizens housing project.
Astonishingly, in some of the same literature he trumpets the support of a Birmingham resident who was one of the chief opponents of the housing project.
A campaign brochure boldly claims he "forged an innovative compromise that won affordable housing for seniors at Baldwin House."
A letter to Baldwin House residents that went out over the signature of Troy resident Paul Lin (but was paid for by Lanzetta's campaign committee) says "Baldwin House would not stand today without the vision, support and hard work of Dante Lanzetta." It goes on to say "Baldwin House residents owe their very homes to this man."
A short history lesson might be in order for Lanzetta and anyone who would believe his outrageous claims:
Baldwin House was built under a federal court order from U.S. District Judge Robert DeMascio. With or without anything Lanzetta may have contributed to the project -- and those who actually contributed to the project have difficulty remembering any significant contributions by Lanzetta -- Baldwin House would have been built. If DeMascio had to hire the contractors and supervise construction himself, the thing would have been built.
"To give credit for Baldwin House to Lanzetta is an insult to all the people who worked to bring senior housing to Birmingham," says Dorothy Conrad, who was recalled from the Birmingham City Commission in the late 1970s over her support for the project.
That Lanzetta in some of the same campaign literature invokes the support of former City Commissioner Don Jensen only adds to the insult. Jensen led not only the campaign against senior housing in the 1970s, but the recall campaign against commissioners who supported the housing, says Conrad.
An Oct. 7, 1996, Detroit News story marking the opening of Baldwin House said:
"Donald Jensen, a resident who opposed the complex, said at the time that residents were miffed they were paying astronomical mortgages to live in Birmingham only to have the poor move in nearby."
" 'Most of us worked hard all our lives to earn our way to Birmingham,' Jensen said. 'I think the citizens felt it was unfair for the government to put people in Birmingham on a subsidized housing basis.' "
With supporters like that, Lanzetta hardly needs enemies.
We've asked Lanzetta to support his claims. Don't hold your breath waiting for a substantive reply. Instead, use your energy to influence the vote Nov. 4.
Turn Lanzetta out of office. It's time to say "Enough!" to a City Commissioner who twists the truth so shamelessly and relentlessly.
5) Majority of commission says 'fix' Plan Board
Oct. 9, 2003
A majority of the Birmingham City Commission thinks the Planning Board is broken and needs to be fixed.
Criticism is focused on board Chairman Gary Kulak. Commissioner Dianne McKeon has called for his resignation or removal. Echoing many observers, she said Kulak is "out of control... Mr. Kulak treats citizens, staff and others with total contempt and disrespect. His only interest is to gain total control over all aspects of building and development in our city. He is attempting to accomplish this by micro-managing the Planning Department and the unnecessary re-drafting of many of our ordinances."
At a Chamber of Commerce candidates forum Tuesday, three other commissioners -- as well as candidates Tom McDaniel, Scott Moore and Julie Plotnik -- expressed concern over Kulak and the Planning Board.
Plotnik said the Planning Board is the "No. 1 deterrent to business" in Birmingham. She said "the current commission allows our Planning Board to bully businesses, and that has to stop."
Commissioner Russell Dixon, quoted in today's Eccentric, told attendees: "Something is not working properly at the Planning Board. It has deviated from site plan review to personal agendas. It's broken and needs to be fixed, and it is the commission's job to do so."
After the forum, Mayor Seth Chafetz and Commissioner Rackeline Hoff agreed that the commission must address the problem soon. Chafetz said the commission should take up the issue publicly at the next joint Planning Board/City Commission meeting Nov. 17.
Hoff said the problem has "gone on too long," but questioned whether a public airing, or removal of Kulak, is necessary.
McKeon, meantime, has called for Kulak's ouster. "I have asked the city manager to seek the advice of our city attorney on how Mr. Kulak can be removed. Of course, if Mr. Kulak wants to resign, that would also be acceptable," McKeon has said.
Kulak was nominated for re-appointment earlier this year by his mentor Commissioner Dante Lanzetta, who has called the Planning Board "responsive."
6) Apply for absentee ballot if you can't get to polls
Oct. 10, 2003
The City of Birmingham is accepting applications for absentee ballots. Visit http://www.bhambuzz.org/pdfs/abballot.pdf to download an application, which can be mailed or dropped off at City Hall.
7) Officials jockey for Ryder Cup committee
Oct. 16, 2003
>From the Birmingham Eccentric
By Larry Ruehlen
It seems one too many city commissioner hopes to get into the 35th Annual Ryder Cup for free.
The city formed a host committee that will decide how best to approach the world's largest golf event, which will take place the week of Sept. 14, 2004, at Oakland Hills Country Club in Bloomfield Township.
The pro golfers involved are staying in Birmingham and the city wants to make sure it has a handle on traffic and security concerns long before 38,000 fans per day swarm the area.
No one knows what perks committee members will get but other Ryder Cup officials have hopped planes to see first-hand how such competitions are run in other towns. At the least, people on the Birmingham host committee may get a chance to meet the golfers at a party or two.
That prospect had commissioners competing Monday. Donald Carney, Rackeline Hoff and Gordon Thorsby all wanted in the select club but only two spaces were open. Carney said he was already involved in the Ryder Cup and could provide necessary background. Hoff said her experience as a public relations executive would be helpful and Thorsby said he was interested in the event and wanted to do his part to help.
With two commissioners absent, only Carney could muster the four votes needed to nab a spot, though he had to cast the deciding vote himself. Hoff got three votes and Thorsby received two and both voted for themselves.
The other seat will be determined at an Oct. 27 meeting when a full commission is expected.
8) City on the prowl for wolf-dogs
Oct. 16, 2003
>From the Birmingham Eccentric
By Larry Ruehlen
Wolf-dogs can no longer stalk the streets of Birmingham with impunity.
"No we don't have a rash of wolf-dogs in town," said Don Studt, deputy police chief. "This is just a precautionary measure."
City officials adopted a new ordinance Monday that effectively bans the critters. Studt said the city had a suspected wolf-dog running the streets months ago and wanted to make sure proper rules were in place should another "Canis lupus Birminghamis" unexpectedly wander in.
"We caught the dog and had an expert examine it," said Studt, on the former suspect. "It turned out to be a shepherd mix, so we gave it back."
The city's new rule mirrors a state ban on wolf-dogs. The law includes an exception for wolf-dogs registered before 2000, but none are registered in Birmingham. If an owner came forward and admitted to harboring such an animal, it would likely be confiscated.
Police have no record of a wolf attacking anyone, but King Boots, a prize show dog, ate portions of his deceased owner before police killed him more than a decade ago.
9) Office building planned for downtown gateway
Oct. 9, 2003
>From the Birmingham Eccentric
By Larry Ruehlen
The second half of the Maple and Woodward Ave. gateway to Birmingham will be an office building.
"It should be very easy to construct a handsome building without making it identical to the hotel," said Birmingham developer Edward Fuller. "We still have to go through the planning process, but the site will be developed office."
Fuller recently signed a purchase agreement for the former Shell gas station at Maple and Woodward.
He said he plans to turn it into a four-story office building that will complement a planned Hilton Hotel across the street.
Officials have complained for years that the pair of gas stations don't project a suitable image for the city.
In the Downtown Birmingham 2016 Plan, urban planner Andres Duany recommended transforming what are now two gas stations into a gateway to the city. He said the twin buildings should have a retail component.
"Concerning the twin buildings proposed, they are so rare in the United States that, if Birmingham were to conjure up a pair like the ones illustrated, they may well become a regional or even national landmark," said Duany, in the report.
Fuller said he is willing to build a complementary building, but much of it depends on the city's approval process.
Another developer is going through the approval process for a project that would replace the Sunoco Gas Station at 35001 Woodward with a five-story hotel with more than 100 rooms.
Under the proposal, a local landmark, Hunter House restaurant, would be torn down and rebuilt within the footprint of the hotel. The Hilton proposal includes underground parking. Building the parking garage would require dismantling Hunter House brick-by-brick so parking could be installed under it. The hamburger place is a throwback to the 1950s and it is the oldest restaurant on Woodward from Detroit to Pontiac.
The planning board has approval powers over granting a fifth story. The board can deny the fifth story of a building if it would, in the board's opinion, negatively impact the sunlight and air of neighboring residential or historic districts. The board can also deny a fifth story if the building isn't harmonious with adjacent structures.
Under city zoning rules, the fifth story must be residential, and the proposal includes 10 apartments on the top floor. It also includes retail spaces for the Maple Road frontage, which meets another requirement. Fuller's new office building can't be five stories under current zoning law so Duany's gateway concept won't be possible.
Fuller is the same developer who lured advertising firm McCann-Erickson into the former Jacobson's department store at 336 W. Maple. That building is being remodeled and the agency will come to Birmingham 2004.
Construction projects typically take at least two years in Birmingham.
10) Dixon wants to keep bringing order to commission
Oct. 9, 2003
>From the Birmingham Eccentric
By Larry Ruehlen
Russell Dixon wants to continue bringing order to complex issues.
"I've been able to make a significant contribution to the work of the city commission," Dixon said. "Whenever there is a stalemate, I make a motion that moves the process along and it is unanimously approved. ... I am a clear thinker who is sensitive to the process."
Rather than choosing sides on divisive issues, Dixon is running for a third term on his track record of leadership.
"I've been talking to residents and they aren't interested in dealing with polarizing issues," Dixon said. "They are looking for people who can lead. They are looking for people who can make local government work."
Dixon said candidates often take positions on matters that aren't clearly defined, which leaves them back-tracking when all the information is available.
One issue that typifies the Dixon approach is sewer laterals. Some residents want immediate action, but Dixon takes the measured view of allowing study, then quietly offering possible solutions. Dixon said he favors doing more to help residents cope with expensive repairs, but he isn't willing to shout for change until he knows what changes should occur.
While much of the city is immersed in the question of whether development is good or evil, Dixon prefers to stay on the sidelines and offer guidance.
"When a town is new, zoning ordinances are written to encourage growth," Dixon said. "When it matures, there is a constant and necessary fine-tuning of the ordinances. That is occurring in Birmingham and it's a healthy process."
He said the city does, however, need to do a better job of defining where five-story buildings can be built. He wants to prevent them on narrow streets and eliminate discretionary approvals of them on wide streets.
Dixon is an architect with a local studio. His record of public service dates back to 1977, when he was appointed to the city's first historic district commission. He was instrumental in establishing the first historic district and later adding the Grand Trunk Train Station to it.
He also served on the board of zoning appeals from 1979-1986, then turned to neighborhood issues in 1993. As president of the Birmingham Villas Homeowners Association, Dixon led a movement to save Derby Middle School. The school district wanted to close it to save cash and Dixon and others convinced officials that the school was indeed an irreplaceable part of the community.
He later led successful initiatives to prevent the relocation of the Maple Road Kroger store and the expansion of East Maple to five lanes. He assumed a leadership role when elected to the commission in 1995.
His skills were tested in 1999. Dixon was named mayor following an acrimonious city election that once again centered on development. Dixon brought calm to turbulent times -- which is exactly what he wants to keep doing.
11) Sign on to sign, distribute campaign handout
Oct. 17, 2003
The Buzz is soliciting signatures for a campaign handout that will support the election of Tom McDaniel, Dianne McKeon, Scott Moore and Julie Plotnik to the City Commission.
The piece will touch on our campaign themes of limiting tax increases, being fiscally responsible, not wasting tax money and protecting property rights.
Your name would be a valuable addition to this handout.
Please join us in calling on our neighbors to support the election of these fine candidates.
We also need help distributing the handouts.
Please send an email to info@bhambuzz.org with your name, address, phone number and occupation, and please indicate if you would be willing to help with distribution.
If you have any questions about this, you may inquire via email to the above address, or you may contact any of the candidates directly:
Julie Plotnik
(248) 647-4319
jap1103@aol.com
Tom McDaniel
(248) 540-2677
mcdaniel_tom@hotmail.com
Dianne McKeon
(248) 644-8929
djmckeon@aol.com
Scott Moore
(248) 644-2875
sdm984@ameritech.net
Please: Aside from voting, this may be one of the most important steps you can take to support these candidates.
You can also:
* Send money. Donations of up to $500 per person (personal checks only, please; no cash) will be greatly appreciated.
* Put up lawn signs. Call or email Neighbors for a Better Birmingham, or any of the individual candidates, to arrange pickup or delivery.
* Walk with a candidate. Call or email any of the candidates.
* Host a get-together. Invite a group of friends to your home for an informal meet-the-candidates tea or coffee. Contact the committee or a candidate.
To be removed, send mail to info@bhambuzz.org
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BE INFORMED...GET INVOLVED...SPREAD THE WORD
Forward this email to friends, neighbors and others who are interested in EXCELLENCE for Birmingham.]]>2003-10-17T17:47:24-05:00Number 58-Oct. 6, 2003
http://www.bhambuzz.org/index.php/weblog/number_58_oct_6_2003/
1) Crunch Time Dept.: Get lawn signs; walk with a candidate
2) Comment: Dianne McKeon for commission
3) In interview, McKeon calls for Kulak ouster, blasts ‘contriving, conspiring’ on commission
4) Comment: Unappoint Kulak
5) Exodus resumes as planning staffer quits
6) Firm ready to occupy Jacobson’s space
7) Sewers won’t be on ballot
8) Comment: Weigh the sign ban with caution
9) Comment: A time to pass
10) Letter: Lanzetta’s time is up
11) Letter: Don’t fall for scare tactics; get specifcs
12) A touch of hipness in Birmingham: New development is priced to house the crowd that hangs out in this trendy suburb
THE BIRMINGHAM BUZZ
"Cast your vote for intelligence and reason"
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1) Crunch Time Dept.: Get lawn signs; walk with a candidate
2) Comment: Dianne McKeon for commission
3) In interview, McKeon calls for Kulak ouster, blasts 'contriving, conspiring' on commission
4) Comment: Unappoint Kulak
5) Exodus resumes as planning staffer quits
6) Firm ready to occupy Jacobson's space
7) Sewers won't be on ballot
8) Comment: Weigh the sign ban with caution
9) Comment: A time to pass
10) Letter: Lanzetta's time is up
11) Letter: Don't fall for scare tactics; get specifcs
12) A touch of hipness in Birmingham: New development is priced to house the crowd that hangs out in this trendy suburb
1) Crunch Time Dept.
Get lawn signs; walk with a candidate
Oct. 6, 2003
Buzz-endorsed candidates need your support!
Lawn signs are available for pickup or delivery.
Volunteers willing to walk their neighborhoods with candidates are also needed.
Lawn signs can be picked up during regular business hours at Christopher Longe & Associates Architects, 124 Peabody. Park at the old Shell station at Woodward and Maple; the office is the southernmost stucco and green-trim Shain Townhome across Peabody.
You can also phone (248) 258-6940 to request delivery, or send an email to info@bhambuzz.org
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2) Comment: Dianne McKeon for commission
Oct. 6, 2003
The Birmingham Buzz endorses Dianne McKeon for City Commission.
McKeon has come a long way since she was elected to her first term on the Commission four years ago. Back then, she ran on a virtual slate with commissioners Seth Chafetz, Russell Dixon and Dante Lanzetta. To her enormous surprise, she was the top vote-getter. It turned out to be the nudge she needed to slowly but surely over the next four years assert her independence.
Today, she runs in clear opposition to Lanzetta, and completely independent of the others. All are seeking re-election.
McKeon took a huge step in the right direction this week by courageously calling for the resignation or ouster of Planning Board Chairman Gary Kulak. She also courageously called a spade a spade when she noted the "disingenuous attitude" and "contriving, conspiring and collaborative decision-making" by Lanzetta, Chafetz and commissioners Donald Carney and Gordon Thornsby that is abundantly clear to anyone who watches the commission.
We haven't always agreed with McKeon, but her intentions lately are good, and her voting record of late has been reasonable. Her door is always open, and her attitude is always positive. She is unabashedly impressionable. We like that. It means she isn't dogmatic, and she's always open to a variety of viewpoints.
She and her husband, Jerry, are always out and about, and are champions of the central business district, in which they live.
With a second win behind her, McKeon should be able to approach her job with more confidence, and hone her leadership skills. She'll be able to do that if Dante Lanzetta is unseated, and she is freed of his overwhelmingly negative and intimidating influence.
The Birmingham Buzz urges you to vote for Dianne McKeon on Nov. 4.
3) In interview, McKeon calls for Kulak ouster, blasts 'contriving, conspiring' on commission
Oct. 6, 2002
Birmingham Planning Board Chairman Gary Kulak should resign from office or face removal, City Commissioner Dianne McKeon says.
In addition, "contriving, conspiring and collaborative decision-making" by certain members of the Commission "is taking its toll on our town" and has made the city a "laughing stock" in some professional circles.
"I have asked the city manager to seek the advice of our city attorney on how Mr. Kulak can be removed. Of course, if Mr. Kulak wants to resign, that would also be acceptable," McKeon told the Buzz in a wide-ranging interview.
McKeon is seeking re-election to the Commission.
"During the early part of my first term, a name surfaced for consideration on the Planning Board that earned my vote," McKeon said. "In retrospect, it was the wrong decision. Mr. Kulak is in my view out of control. Supported by others, including some on the current commission, Mr. Kulak treats citizens, staff and others with total contempt and disrespect. His only interest is to gain total control over all aspects of building and development in our city. He is attempting to accomplish this by micro-managing the Planning Department and the unnecessary re-drafting of many of our ordinances."
"As evidence, once again a member of the Planning Department staff is leaving," McKeon said, referring to the late-September departure of part-time planner Kelly Mathews. "If every Birmingham resident knew the kind of day the employees in this department spend, they would be outraged. They are constantly wasting time on special reports or projects demanded by some commissioners and committee members," McKeon said.
"I am really tired of the disingenuous attitude of some members of the commission and their perception of what is good for Birmingham. Contriving, conspiring and collaborative decision-making is taking its toll on our town. In certain professional circles we are a laughing stock. We cannot keep staff, and building applicants are compromising their plans to avoid the Planning Board," McKeon said.
"In my 27 years of living in Birmingham, I've seen the pendulum on the commission swing dramatically in both directions, and neither direction is healthy. Whatever your personal interests are, or the agenda you bring to the table, failure to consider the suggestions and arguments of others ultimately cheats part of the community. My promise is to listen and learn and then base my votes on the merits of each individual situation. Our city is so many different parts - all good, and all why we live here. Balancing these parts by making good decisions is a commissioner's job," McKeon said.
"I have recently been asked what changes in positions and issues I've made since the last election," McKeon said. "The answer is simply, none. Since the day four years ago when I made up my mind to run for a seat on the city commission, I have been keenly interested in both neighborhood and downtown issues and have, and will continue to make decisions based on the merits of the facts and discussions that ensue. I absolutely do not have any other agenda. I am not aligned with any other commissioners to place certain individuals on the various boards or commissions; I do not meet with other commissioners between meetings and show up at the commission meetings with my mind made up."
"Keeping a good balance with the varying interests requires fair and open minded-decision making. I pledge to do that as a voice of reason on the commission. There are probably less than one hundred residents really active with the issues. If taxpayers knew of the micro-management by some commissioners and board members, they would be repelled by the foolishness and embarrassed with the results," McKeon said.
"Could our staff oversight be better? Of course! But when you traditionally operate with a lean staff and numerous special projects interrupting your week, you have a recipe for failure. And it seems that is precisely what the detractors are looking for as a reason to dismiss key staff members or to discourage longevity."
On the Orangeburg sewer issue, McKeon said, "Now, 50 years later, it's evident that Orangeburg was not a long-term solution. We all wish we could reverse the decision made 50 years ago. Moving forward to determine who is responsible for the replacement cost is a high priority with me. This is a heavy financial burden, and it must be fairly handled. As a homeowner, I certainly would not want to be faced with the cost. As a city commissioner, I must ask, if the city financially assists the affected homeowners, how is the cost to be spread over all taxpayers and residents?"
On Birmingham's finances, McKeon said, "Birmingham's financial picture is reasonably good, as we enjoy a Triple-A bond rating. While many factors go into the investment decision-making process, the bond rating is often the single most important factor. This rating is in a large part due to our city manager's diligence in managing our budget and controlling our expenses."
"However," she said, "I would like to see the city operate more cautiously. There are a number of projects or studies where we have spent too much and have too little to show for it. Shain Park is certainly a good example. We always seem to find the money to hire the next consultant or conduct the next study. I will continually question these requests and work diligently to foster millage reductions each budget year. We need to regain confidence by spending more prudently. Sidewalks to nowhere and $500,000 studies to photograph every home in Birmingham must not be allowed to happen."
McKeon, a frequently seen face downtown, concluded: "It is so unproductive to pit neighborhoods against our downtown interests. Our downtown business owners and merchants live in the neighborhoods and our residents shop in our downtown. It takes both to make Birmingham the community it is. So whatever your interest I will respect it with an open mind and a fair hearing. Together, we can work, shop and live in Birmingham with a great sense of pride and accomplishment."
4) Comment: Unappoint Kulak
Oct. 3, 2003
We've heard rumblings that city staffers and even a few top elected and appointed city officials are joining the calls from residents and others for the removal of Gary Kulak from the Planning Board.
Kulak, the board chairman, rules with an iron fist. In the contempt he shows for those who appear before him, and for the city staff on whom he depends, he mimics his mentor and chief backer, Commissioner Dante Lanzetta.
Perhaps worse than his rudeness, however, is Kulak's abuse of power. At every turn, he seeks to obstruct reasonable people seeking reasonable approvals for reasonable projects. There was a day in Birmingham when a petitioner could show up before the Planning Board and get a fair hearing. Nowadays, under Kulak, no sane petitioner appears without high-priced attorneys and architects in tow. Owners of the dilapidatd Waterfall project had to wait more than two years for final approval for their project. Respected Birmingham restaurateur Norm LePage had to likewise go through more than two years of hell before Kulak before obtaining final approval for a new banquet hall adjacent to his landmark Big Rock Chophouse -- a project that was widely and frequently supported by residents of the adjacent neighborhoods.
Kulak, who lacks any experience or skills relevant to his position, is one of the chief reasons why property owners find it so incredibly difficult to do business with the city. When your taxes rise because the city's tax base hasn't kept pace with rising costs, you'll know whom to blame. Kulak has chased away more investment in Birmingham than any other single person. Pretty good feat for a guy who doesn't own any property in Birmingham, and so bears none of that tax burden himself.
Reasonable cause exists for Kulak's ouster. We don't relish the messiness involved in removing him from office (well, OK, we admit it; it might be interesting to watch), but sometimes government requires us to do unpleasant things.
Of course, Kulak could resign and save everyone the trouble...
5) Exodus resumes as planning staffer quits
Oct. 3, 2003
Another member of the Birmingham city planning staff has resigned. Kelly Mathews, a part-time planner who had been with the city for little more than a year, resigned her position effective Sept. 25. City Manager Tom Markus said Mathews focused on site plan reviews and research, as well as day-to-day service work.
Mathews (who says she took a full-time position on the planning staff in Brighton Township, which is much closer to her home in Ann Arbor), brings to four the number of city planners who have resigned since the appointment of Gary Kulak to the chairmanship of the Birmingham Planning Board. She joins Community Development Director Patricia McCullough, and city planners Keith Edwards and Jill Bahm, all of whom resigned in the past two years.
Mathews' work brought her into occasional contact with Kulak, who has been sharply criticized by petitioners, city staffers and members of the public for rudeness and obstruction of projects before the Planning Board.
In an April letter to Markus, Louis Dortch Jr., president of Qdoba Mexican Grill, said, "I have attended dozens of planning, zoning and other types of municipal meetings over the years, and I have never been treated with such contempt and antagonism. Mr. Kulak seems to enjoy using his position to deride people seeking approval for their given project. His treatment of the local businessman or resident is only outdone by his deplorable abuse of the City of Birmingham staff," Dortch wrote.
"Ms. Jana Ecker and Ms. Kelly Mathews are both competent and enjoyable people to work with. Mr. Kulak treated each of these city employ