Meeting Minutes for June 2025

1. Present June 2025 Agenda

   • June 2025 agenda was presented to meeting attendees.

2. Read April 2025 Meeting Minutes

   • April 2025 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

3. New Business

   • Approve June 2025 Agenda

     • Motion to approve the agenda for the June 23, 2025 neighborhood association meeting was made by Renee Tucker and seconded by Debbie Purcell.

   • Approve meeting minutes for April 2025

     • Motion to approve the meeting minutes for the April 28, 2025 neighborhood association meeting was made by Debbie Purcell and seconded by Renee Tucker.

4. Reports

   • CAB - Elizabeth Murray

     • Alice Williams reiterated the rules for candidates who are campaigning for office. They cannot campaign during a meeting & candidates cannot give out promotional material on government property.

     • There will be a Juneteenth mayoral candidate forum on Saturday, June 28.

5. City Representatives

   • India Bailey for Hunter Williams, Councilor - District 2

     • Update on the parcel on 12th Avenue South near right off 48th Street. The lot was recently put up for sale and advertised as shovel ready. They haven’t done the work with the zoning office to start developing the property. She will keep us informed if anything happens. Due to the protected status, no trees can be cut down until November and it’s a landslide & flood risk. Neighbors within 500 feet will be notified.

     • The issue with the power going out often was brought up. Alabama Power is separate from the city and not proactive about issues, but India & Hunter Williams will advocate for us.

   • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor - District 3

     • The city budget is being passed the following day, June 24.

     • Some people in the other neighborhoods have too many problems with Alabama Power spraying herbicides. State law is that Alabama Power can cut anything within 15 feet of the power line.

     • You can request the city to not spray pesticides near your house.

     • She gave an update on the state takeover of the Birmingham Water Works board. A lawsuit has been filed, but that will likely take a while.

6. Neighborhood Comments:

   • The issue with the sidewalks and driveways on 12th Ave was brought up. The issue is with cars being unable to get into the driveway, bottoming out, after the sidewalk being installed

   • National Neighborhood Night out was brought up - for August 8.

   • We were notified about the daycare going in at the Festival Center (near Home Depot).

7. Announcements

   • Brush pickup dates & Recycling pickup dates

   • Next meeting - July 28, 2025

Meeting Minutes for March 2025

1. Present March 2025 Agenda

   • March 24, 2025 agenda was presented to meeting attendees.

2. Read February 2025 Meeting Minutes

   • Feb 24, 2025 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

3. New Business

   • Approve March 24, 2025 Agenda

     • Motion to approve the agenda for the March 24, 2025 neighborhood association meeting was made by Tim Lyons and seconded by Joyce McKinnon.

       • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

   • Approve meeting minutes for Feb 24, 2025

     • Motion to approve minutes was made by Kristen Smith and seconded by Joyce McKinnon.

       • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

4. Presentations

   • None

5. Reports

   • CRR - Text message from Flora Johnson was read: Project for doggie bags has been approved by the deputy director. Estimated completion time: 30 business days

   • Fire - none

   • Police - none

   • CAB - Elizabeth Murray:

     • Spent the majority of the meeting talking about NUSA. They have about 100 people going. The cost of that could be paid for by neighborhood funds.

     • New rule: candidates for elections cannot speak during the neighborhood association meetings. They can speak before the meeting or after the meeting has been adjourned.

     • They are encouraging collaborative projects between neighborhood associations.

     • The city is going to put up dumping cameras in areas where illegal dumping is frequently happening.

     • Citizens can take trash to the dump for free.

6. City Representatives

   • India Bailey, Chief of Staff for Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2:

     • 70 12th Ave S was discussed: the property owner was cleaning up some of the overgrown brush. Besides the creek and the landslide risk, cutting down of trees in that area will incur a fine from the federal government as it is a bat wildlife habitat. They requested Katrina Watson of PEP to notify us if a permit is pulled for redevelopment of that property.

     • Construction has started on the sidewalk extension that connects to the Clairmont Trail. On the east side, it is going to connect to the sidewalks that go to Forest Park. In the middle, at 52nd St, it will go over the ridge, past Trinity, to the sidewalks on Montclair. On the west side, it will extend to 56th St, go down the hill to the Filling Station, and on to Woodlawn.

     • We haven’t heard anything back from BDOT about the speed cushions on Cresthill Rd that were requested previously.

   • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor - District 3: not present

   • School Board: not present

7. Updates about the Neighborhood

   • Joyce McKinnon (along with Elizabeth Murray) added to what India spoke about, in regards to the property at 70 12th Ave S.

   • Request for stop sign has been made for the intersection of Lincrest and Clairmont.

   • We spoke about how hard it is to cross Crestwood Blvd and that it’s controlled by ALDOT, not BDOT. The tunnel is in too bad of a shape to be reopened and it floods.

8. Announcements

   • Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - Mar 26, 2025

   • Curbside Recycling Pickup - For some, it has been on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays and for some it’s on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays.

   • Next Meeting - Apr 28, 2025

Meeting Minutes for February 2025

1. Present February 2025 Agenda

   • February 2025 agenda was presented to meeting attendees.

2. Read January 2025 Meeting Minutes

   • January 2025 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

3. New Business

   • Approve February 24, 2025 Agenda

     • Motion to approve the agenda for the February 24, 2025 neighborhood association meeting was made by Renee Tucker and seconded by Kristen Smith.

       • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

   • Approve meeting minutes for January 2025

     • Motion to approve the meeting minutes with a minor amendment to the location of the potholes was made by Brandon Fattore and seconded by Donna Barnes.

       • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

   • President Hall requested a motion to approve that the CSNA purchase doggie bags to be placed in the doggie bag stations located along the Clairmont Walking Trail. There was a discussion and an announcement that there is $23,834.71 in the CSNA’s account.

     • Motion to approve that the CSNA spend up to $600 to purchase doggie bags was made by Renee Tucker and seconded by Matthew Nerny.

       • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

4. Presentations

   • Lieutenant Darryl Lane from Birmingham Fire and Rescue announced that there is a class starting for the CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) program on April 1-May 27. It’s a class that teaches volunteer members of the community to help first responders in case of a disaster. Location: Station 2, at 600 11th Street South. He also mentioned that the fire department can install fire detectors in the homes of residents. The fire department responds to an average of 202 calls a day, 74,000/year.

5. Reports

   • Fire - presentation above.

   • Police - no police representatives were present.

   • CAB - Elizabeth Murray reported that there was a presentation to former CAB President Jimmie Coleman who stepped down. His long leadership was recognized and several members of the CAB commended him for his service. VP Murray said that an executive session was held so that the members could ask questions to city attorney Beverly Scruggs about why all elections are banned. She gave this advice to minimize risk and liability. This will remain in effect until the lawsuit is finalized. Alice Williams made a report where the ACE program was announced. Community meetings (in lieu of individual neighborhood meetings) are encouraged but not mandatory and assured the CAB that the city does not want to get rid of the neighborhood system.

6. City Representatives

   • Hunter Williams, Councilor - District 2

     • He announced that in January 2025, Birmingham 911 received 50,143 calls. Of that, a police officer was dispatched 16,278 times and Fire & Rescue was dispatched 5,964 times.

     • Construction has started on the sidewalks to connect to the Clairmont walking trail. He & Councilor Abbott pushed for the ARPA funds to get it going. It will connect down Clairmont to the existing sidewalks, over the hill by Trinity to Montclair, and to 56th St, down the hill to Crestwood Blvd, and across to the sidewalks in Crestwood N and continuing to Woodlawn.

     • He wants to improve the upkeep of the Clairmont Walking Trail.

     • VP Murray commended him for all the work he’s done and is doing for the Clairmont Walking Trail.

   • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor - District 3

     • Short-term Rentals update - creating a legal framework for STR’s is still ongoing. The fourth version will be presented at the Planning and Zoning committee. They have created a new category called “Hosted Home Stay” if you live on the premises. They have found somebody who can scrub the data and locate all the properties operating as STR’s in Birmingham.

   • School Board - neither school board members were present.

7. Announcements

   • A neighbor said speed bumps close to 1533 Cresthill Road need to be repositioned.

   • Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - not announced.

   • Curbside Recycling Pickup - Should be every first and third week of the month with the garbage.

   • Next Meeting - March 24, 2025

Meeting Minutes for January 2025

1. Present January 2025 Agenda

   • Nov 25, 2024 agenda was presented to meeting attendees.

2. Read November 2025 Meeting Minutes

   • Nov 25, 2024 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

3. New Business

   • Approve Jan 27, 2025 Agenda

     • Motion to approve the agenda for the Jan 27, 2025 neighborhood association meeting was made by Timothy Hall and seconded by Renee Tucker. Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

   • Approve meeting minutes for Nov 25, 2024

     • Motion to approve minutes was made by Tim Lyons and seconded by Renee Tucker. Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

4. Presentations

   • Camille Worthington and Kayla MacNeil (not present), as announced in October and November neighborhood association meetings, resigned their leadership positions.

   • Therefore, following instructions by the City of Birmingham, nominations for President were requested. Timothy Hall was nominated for the position of president by Kristen Smith.

   • He was elected President by secret ballot unanimously. All those who voted were residents of Crestwood South and eligible to vote.

   • There were no nominations for the Secretary position, so it remains unfilled.

5. Reports

   • Fire/Police - no fire/police representatives were present.

   • CAB - Elizabeth Murray could not give a report since the January CAB meeting had not happened yet. It was rescheduled due to regular meeting time conflicting with the MLK Day holiday.

6. City Representatives

   • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

     • India Bailey, Chief of Staff to Councilor Williams announced that the sidewalk project which will connect the Clairmont Walking Trail to Crestwood Boulevard, Montclair Road, and Forest Park is due to be completed this year with ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds. Construction to begin in March.

     • Answered question about potholes created by utilities not getting repaired correctly on the recently paved Clairmont Avenue. It is a problem - the city is not good at code enforcement.

   • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3 (she spoke early to accommodate another event she needed to attend)

     • Short-term Rentals update - the legal department and PEP are working on the fourth version of the ordinance. There will be another public hearing on the issue once the new version is finalized. Reiterated her opposition to STR.

     • The mayor’s Crime Commission report is out. Link: BCC Report 1:03 A

     • Answered question regarding Neighborhood Associations: she thinks they are important and they are not sufficiently supported by the city. She got involved in city politics through her involvement with her neighborhood association. 

   • School Board - neither school board members were present. 

7. Announcements

   • Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - 2/6/2025 and 2/20/2025

   • Curbside Recycling Pickup - 2/20/2025

   • Next Meeting - February 24, 2025

Meeting Minutes for November 2024

1. Present November 2024 Agenda

   • Nov 25, 2024 agenda was presented to meeting attendees.

2. Read October 2024 Meeting Minutes

   • Oct 28, 2024 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

3. New Business

   • Approve November 25, 2024 Agenda

     • Motion to approve the agenda for the Nov 25, 2024 neighborhood association meeting was made by Timothy Hall and seconded by Renee Tucker.

   • Approve meeting minutes for Oct 28, 2024

     • Motion to approve minutes was made by Renee Tucker and seconded by Therese Bynam. Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

4. Presentations

   • Fran Marks- Ruffner Mountain Park and Red Mountain Park did not show for his presentation.

5. Reports

   • Officer Reports

     • Announcement of CSNA vacancies for president and secretary

       • Will nominate and vote in new officers at January 2025 CSNA Meeting

   • Fire - not present

   • Police

     • Regina Mills, Crime Prevention Officer for East Precinct

     • To contact Ms. Mills, call (205) 933-4110.

   • CRR

   • CAB - Elizabeth Murray

     • Elizabeth Murray, President of the Crestwood Community made a report of the CAB meeting on November 18, 2024.

       • The city is starting a new commission on crime and is hoping to have a report done by the end of December. It is headed up by former Police Commissioner AC Roper. Also, they are conducting a survey and the QR code for the survey was made available. 

       • City Councilor Darrell O'Quinn spoke to the CAB and gave an update on the Short-term rental issue. They are considering allowing STR in residential areas by lottery, as well as in mixed-use zones. Nothing is finalized yet.

       • The city is catching up from having the security breach.

6. City Representatives

   • Hunter Williams, Councilor - District 2: not present

   • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor - District 3: not present

7. School Board

   • Neonta Williams, District 2: not present

   • Mary Boehm, District 3

     • Birmingham City Schools (BCS) went from a grade of 72 last year to a 74 this year. The system schools went from 15 Fs to 7. We had a few more D’s because of those moving up from F. However, in general, the improvement is positive.

     • There was an Altec Innovation Challenge. Southampton K8 was awarded $10k for a hygiene hub, which will be set up in Pratt City. It will provide feminine hygiene products and diapers to that community.

     • We also, sadly, lost one student, Gerald Andre Lomax, a senior at JO, was killed on the campus of Woodlawn after a basketball game.

8. Announcements

   • Brush pickup dates - TBA

   • Recycling/garbage pickup dates were not definitively announced since there is expected change in dates due to the holidays.

   • Next meeting - January 27, 2025

9. Meeting Adjourned 

   • The Annual Holiday Social reception was held immediately after the meeting.

Meeting Minutes for September 2024

Present September 2024 Agenda

• Sep 23, 2024 agenda was presented to meeting attendees.

Read August 2024 Meeting Minutes

• Aug 26, 2024 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

New Business

• Approve Aug 26, 2024 Agenda

• Motion to approve the agenda for the Aug 26, 2024 neighborhood association meeting was made by Rebecca Hanson and seconded by Renee Tucker.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• Approve meeting minutes for Jul 22, 2024

• Motion to approve minutes was made by Rebecca Hanson and seconded by Renee Tucker.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

Reports

• Officer Reports

• Neighborhood Cleanup: Saturday, September 28th from 9-11 AM

• Those interested in participating can meet behind the Family Leisure on the corner of Crestwood Blvd and Oporto-Madrid at 7701 Ludington Ln.

• For questions contact marybeth.nicodemus@gmail.com.

• Southern Area Framework Plan Zoning Update

• VP Liz Murray attended a SAF Plan zoning meeting where zoning shared proposed zones

• No major changes, most areas are down zoning.

• ex Waldorf or Girls Inc - These are examples of legal non-conforming use but if they ever leave their current locations, the zoning of the parcel changes to residential.

• Community Rezoning Plans

• Crestwood Rezoning Map

• Neighborhood Officer Elections

• Due to ongoing legal matters regarding the 2022 neighborhood officer election, the 2024 election cycle will be delayed.

• To ensure continuity across the 99 neighborhood associations, Community Resource Services has requested notification of any current vacancies due to death or resignation. They also ask that current officers remain in their positions until the election cycle is completed.

• Camille and Kayla plan to resign, Liz is evaluating and has not yet come to a decision.

• Any vacancies due to resignation will be filled as per Section VI (D) of the Citizen’s Participation Plan (CPP): Special Elections to Fill Vacancies:

• If the president’s position becomes vacant, the vice president will automatically assume the role.

• Vacancies for vice president or secretary will be filled through an election by secret ballot, conducted by the president. The president must notify the Community Resource Services Division of the election results within 48 hours.

• Fire

• Not present.

• Police - Regina Mills, Crime Prevention Officer for East Precinct

  • Not present.

  • To contact Ms. Mills, call (205) 933-4110.

• CRR

• Not present.

• CAB - Liz Murray

• Short Term Rentals

• Vote at CAB passed to recommend no short term rentals in the city of Birmingham.

• Scott Burnett and Ryan Andrews shared their perspective and experience as owners of a residence they use as a short term rental to meeting attendees. They shared their opposition to an outright ban of short term rentals and instead promoted sensible regulations such as paid permits.

City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

• Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2 (Represented by India Bailey)

• The Station at Crestline Construction

• Several neighbors raised concerns about effects of construction for The Station at Crestline, including cement being spilled onto Clairmont Ave and 52nd Street S.

• Crestwood Pool

• Luke Hanson raised concern again that the pool at Crestwood Park. Ms. Bailey confirmed she relayed his request and was told it would be drained in October.

• VP Liz Murray will follow up.

• Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

• No additional reports.

• School Board

• Neonta Williams, District 2

• Not present.

• Mary Boehm, District 3

• Not Present

Announcements

• Brush pickup dates - TBA

• Recycling pickup dates - Sep 11, 2024 and Sep 18, 2024

• Next meeting - Sep 23, 2024

Meeting Minutes for August 2024

Present August 2024 Agenda

• Aug 26, 2024 agenda was presented to meeting attendees.

Read June 2024 Meeting Minutes

• Jul 22, 2024 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

New Business

• Approve Aug 26, 2024 Agenda

• Motion to approve the agenda for the Aug 26, 2024 neighborhood association meeting was made by Rebecca Hanson and seconded by Renee Tucker.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• Approve meeting minutes for Jul 22, 2024

• Motion to approve minutes was made by Rebecca Hanson and seconded by Renee Tucker.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

Reports

• Officer Reports

• Free Recycling Carts

• The City of Birmingham is offering free recycling carts for residents of Birmingham living in single-family homes or multi-dwelling units with fewer than four units.

• Residents can submit an interest form to receive a free recycling cart here.

• Due to high demand, there is currently a waiting list but residents can continue to put out their recycling as they currently do today until they are provided an update from the City.

• Fire

• Not present.

• Police - Regina Mills, Crime Prevention Officer for East Precinct

  • Not present.

  • To contact Ms. Mills, call (205) 933-4110.

• CRR

• Not present.

• CAB - Liz Murray

• Short-term Rentals Resolution

• Highland Park Neighborhood Association shared a resolution they recently passed recommending the City pass an ordinance prohibiting the operation of short-term rental properties in all residential zoning districts within the city limits.

• HPNA CAB proposed sharing the resolution at other Birmingham neighborhood meetings in order for residents to vote on neighborhood opinion of the resolution.

• Councilor Abbott encouraged the neighborhood association to consider sharing an opinion on the resolution via a neighborhood vote.

• Meeting attendees discussed both the pros and cons of long term rentals and whether to take action as a neighborhood during the August 2024 neighborhood meeting. No motion was made to vote on an opinion for the resolution.

• Animal Control

• Birmingham is the 4th largest number of stray intake in the United States.

• Neighborhood Elections

• There will not be neighborhood elections for the 2025-2029 term.

• Academy of Civic Engagement

• Applications for the Fall 2024 Academy of Civic Engagement are now open.

• ACE is a City of Birmingham initiative with the central goal of getting residents directly involved and engaged with their local municipal government. ACE wants to prepare residents to go out into their communities to act, serve, and lead.

• Citizens interested in participating can sign up on the City’s website: https://www.birminghamal.gov/ace 

• Southern Area Rezoning Meeting - October 9th at 6:00 PM, Highland Park Golf Club

• Birmingham City Planning, Engineering, and Permits staff will be seeking a vote to proceed with the rezoning process for the Southern Area.

• Following this meeting, Planning, Engineering, and Permits will move to the Zoning Advisory Committee (ZAC) for their recommendation on the proposed rezoning.

City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

• Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2 (Represented by India Bailey)

• Recycling with new bins starts September 11, 2024.

• Confirmed glass is not allowed for pick up.

• Luke Hanson requested the City prioritize draining the pool at Crestwood park.

• Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

• No additional reports.

• School Board

• Neonta Williams, District 2

• Not present.

• Mary Boehm, District 3

• BCS Budget

• Holding two public budget hearings on September 5th and 10th at 4:30 PM before the budget is adopted for next year.

• BCS Policy Committee Meeting Topics

• Cell phone Policy

• Policy around Val and Sal - Guidelines - particularly as it relates to students who finish early

• Cameras in self- contained classrooms

• The Teacher Bill of Rights is next for committee consideration.

• Intersessions

• Data from PARCA showed that 3 week-long intersessions are working to improve student achievement - especially in elementary grades - so they will be continued this school year.

• After-School Care

• With the ending of ESSR, BCS will no longer provide no-cost/free after school care for students.

• However, Childcare Central, a program through DHR, has funds that can significantly reduce the cost of after school care for families who meet the income eligibility requirements.

• Monthly District Wide Principals Meetings

• Fosters consistency in educational practices and outcomes AND give Principals an opportunity to provide honest feedback to the district.

Announcements

• Brush pickup dates - TBA

• Recycling pickup dates - Sep 11, 2024 and Sep 18, 2024

• Next meeting - Sep 23, 2024

Meeting Minutes for July 2024

Present July 2024 Agenda

• Jul 22, 2024 agenda was presented to meeting attendees.

Read June 2024 Meeting Minutes

• Jun 24, 2024 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

New Business

• Approve Jul 22, 2024 Agenda

• Motion to approve the agenda for the Jul 22, 2024 neighborhood association meeting was made by Renee Tucker and seconded by Scott Phillips.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• Approve meeting minutes for Jun 24, 2024

• Motion to approve Jun 24, 2024 minutes was made by Renee Tucker and seconded by Caroline Phillips.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• Variance Request (ZBA2024-47) - 5624 11th Avenue South

• Variance applicants, Scott and Caroline Phillips, are enclosing their garage to create an additional bedroom. They are seeking a variance to allow this update to their residence.

• Motion to approve variance request ZBA2024-47 was made by Brook Atkinson and seconded by Renee Tucker.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

Reports

• Officer Reports

• Public Hearing for Proposed Revisions to Jefferson County Board of Health Air Pollution Control Regulations - Jul 29, 2024 10:00 AM at the Central Health Center in the Basement Training Room

• An electronic copy of the proposed revisions (under the tab “Draft Permit”), summary of reasons (under the tab “Permit Application”) and the public notice is available from the Department’s website.

• Fire

• Not present.

• Police - Regina Mills, Crime Prevention Officer for East Precinct

• Not present.

• To contact Ms. Mills, call (205) 933-4110.

• CRR

• Not present.

• CAB - Liz Murray

• CAB members discussed the recent shootings that occurred the week of July.

• Honored the recent passing of Ellen Spencer of the Pratt City Neighborhood Association. 

• NUSA board shared updates related to the upcoming conference.

City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

• Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2 (Represented by India Bailey)

• Sidewalks 

• Councilor William continues to support efforts to increase the number of sidewalks in his district.

• Councilor Williams is driving efforts to connect more sidewalks to the Clairmont Walking Trail.

• This will be a long term project addressed in phases and is currently in the design phase where surveys are being done to determine how to implement new sidewalks.

• Targeting late 2024, early 2025 to begin construction.

• Short-term Rentals

• New zoning regulations being considered to short term rentals, like AirBnbs.

• Proposed amendments are available here.

• Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

• Not present.

• School Board

• Neonta Williams, District 2

• Not present.

• Mary Boehm, District 3

• Summer School 2024

• Recently finished Summer school period with 5000 students enrolled.

• School Registration

• Many children do not register for school until the first day of school.

• Register for Success is an effort led by the School Board to help encourage more registrations before the start of the school year.

• Hiring

• Additional hiring taking place to ensure schools are properly staffed.

• ARPA

• High dosage tutoring 

• Jones Valley teaching farm expanding into two additional schools with a designated farmer at each school

• Virtual Reading program expanding to middle and high school

• Character Strong - mental health training

Announcements

• Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - 

• Curbside Recycling Pickup - 

• Next Meeting - August 26, 2024

Meeting Minutes for June 2024

1. Present June 2024 Agenda

• June 2024 agenda was presented to meeting attendees.

2. Read May 2024 Meeting Minutes

• May 2024 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

3. New Business

• Approve June 2024 Agenda

• Motion to approve the agenda for the June 24, 2024 neighborhood association meeting was made by Annie Wright and seconded by Timothy Hall.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• Approve meeting minutes for April 2024

• Motion to approve minutes was made by Renee Tucker and seconded by Timothy Hall.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

4. Reports

• Officer Reports

• No reports from officers for this meeting.

• Fire

• Not present.

• Police - Regina Mills, Crime Prevention Officer for East Precinct

• Not present.

• To contact Ms. Mills, call (205) 933-4110.

• CRR

• Not present.

• CAB - Liz Murray

• During the most recent meeting, the CAB solicited high priority issues from members. Vice President Murray shared a variety of items brought forward by other community members, such as grass cutting and herbicide distribution, neighbors putting bulk trash out after pick up dates, and 18 wheeler trucks driving through neighborhood areas.

• Mayor Woodfin also attended the meeting and relayed recent crime stats to attendees.

• Mayor Woodfin described a new program the City is exploring that reduces the number of entrances and exits within neighborhoods experiencing high volumes of crimes.

• Vice President Murray reported to CAB and the Mayor about providing neighborhood associations with funding and resources to restart monthly mailed newsletters.

5. City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

• Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

• Not present.

• Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

• Not present.

• School Board

• Neonta Williams, District 2

• Not present.

• Mary Boehm, District 3

• Ms. Boehm shared recent stats on reported reading levels for Birmingham City School students. 

• 2023-2024 School Year Graduation

• Ms. Boehm highlighted successes from recent Birmingham City School graduates, including awarded scholarship totals, and military enlistment.

6. Announcements

• Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - TBD

• Curbside Recycling Pickup - July 3rd, July 17th

• Next Meeting - July 22, 2024

Note: President Camille Worthington was not present for the meeting and her absence was excused.

Meeting Minutes for April 2024

• Present April 2024 Agenda

  • April 2024 agenda was presented to meeting attendees.

• Read March 2024 Meeting Minutes

  • March 2024 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

• New Business

  • Approve April 2024 Agenda

  • Motion to approve the agenda for the April 22, 2024 Crestwood South Neighborhood Association meeting was made by Timothy Hall and seconded by Rebecca Rogers.

  • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

  • Approve meeting minutes for March 2024

  • Motion to approve minutes was made by Timothy Hall and seconded by Rebecca Rogers.

  • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• Reports

  • Officer Reports

  • Avondale After School Clubs Showcase 

  • Avondale After School Clubs will be hosting a showcase in which some of the clubs will perform (drama, music, ballet) and others will be highlighted.

  • Showcase will be held May 14th @ 6pm at Avondale School Gym.

  • Birmingham Folk Festival

  • BFF returns to Avondale Park on Saturday, May 4th, 11am to 7pm.

  • Find out more at birminghamfolkfest.org

  • Fire

  • Not present.

  • Police

  • Not present.

  • To contact the Crime Prevention Officer for East Precinct, call (205) 933-4110.

  • Public Works - Arthur Wilder

  • Not present.

  • To report public works issues to Mr. Wilder call 205-254-2061 or email arthur.wilder2@birminghamal.gov.

  • CRR - Harold Houston

  • David Martorana requested a follow up on a previously submitted 311 request regarding the school crosswalk at the intersection of Art Hanes Blvd and Montclair Blvd.

  • Mr. Houston recorded the request number for follow up.

  • To report missed bulk trash pick up, call 205-254-2061.

  • To report neighborhood issues to Mr. Houston, call 205-254-2523 or email harold.houston@birminghamal.gov.

  • CAB - Liz Murray

  • No update.

• City Representatives

  City Council Representatives

• Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

• Councilor Williams’ office will be transferring $2000.00 to the neighborhood’s fund. This allocation has been voted on and approved by the City Council.

• With network outages with the City, there may be a delay on when this amount may be deposited in the neighborhood’s account.

• Clairmont Walking Trail

• Councilor Williams described upcoming improvements planned for the Clairmont Walking Trail.

• These updates will improve the connection between Crestwood South and neighboring communities.

• Traffic Calming Requests

• Jennifer Knott asked about the application process for requesting traffic calming efforts.

• Councilor Williams described the current process for how citizens can submit requests for traffic calming.

• The City website outlines this process further: https://www.birminghamal.gov/transportation/traffic-calming/ 

• Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

• No items of note on the upcoming Council agenda.

• School Board

• Neonta Williams, District 2

• Not present.

• Mary Boehm, District 3

• Teacher of the Year

• Pathways to Professional Nursing Program

• Birmingham City Schools recently launched the new Pathways to Professional Nursing program in partnership with the UAB School of Nursing. 

• Scholars in the program earn patient care technician certification that will enable them to enter the healthcare workforce after graduation or continue their education in the field.

• Access to Pathways to Professional Nursing will expand to students at Ramsay, Wenonah, and Woodlawn next school year.

• Announcements

  • Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - TBD

  • Curbside Recycling Pickup - May 1st, May 15th

  • Next meeting - June 24th

Meeting Minutes for March 2024

1. Present March 2024 Agenda

   • March 2024 agenda was presented to meeting attendees.

2. Read February 2024 Meeting Minutes

   • February 2024 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

3. New Business

   • Approve February 2024 Agenda

   • Motion to approve the agenda for the March 25, 2024 neighborhood association meeting was made by Annie Wright and seconded by Jenny Knott.

   • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

   • Approve meeting minutes for February 2024

   • Motion to approve minutes was made by Renee Tucker and seconded by Debbie Purcell.

   • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

4. Presentations

   • Thank You letter from Virginia Volker

     • A thank you letter from Virginia Volker was read aloud for the event held in her honor March 21, 2024.

5. Reports

   • Officer Reports

   • No CSNA Meeting in May

     • The CSNA will not meet in the month of May due to the Memorial Day holiday.

   • Fire

   • Not present.

   • Police

   • To contact the Crime Prevention Officer for East Precinct, call (205) 933-4110.

   • Public Works - Arthur Wilder

   • Not present.

   • To report public works issues to Mr. Wilder call 205-254-2061 or email arthur.wilder2@birminghamal.gov.

   • CRR - Harold Houston

   • Neighborhood account balance is currently $17,497.79.

   • To report missed bulk trash pick up, call 205-254-2061.

   • To report neighborhood issues to Mr. Houston, call 205-254-2523 or email harold.houston@birminghamal.gov.

   • CAB - Liz Murray

   • City of Birmingham Budget, Income & Expenditures

     • 79.7% of the general fund comes from business licenses and taxes. And only 6.9% comes from property tax.

     • The annual fiscal year for the city: it's July 1 to June 30th

     • Of the whole budget, 76% goes to personnel, which is about average.

   • Birmingham Spotlight: https://www.birminghamal.gov/magiccityspotlight

   • The city makes 26 million on the Magic City Classic.

6. City Representatives

   • City Council Representatives

   • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2 (Represented by India Bailey)

   • Councilor Williams’ office will be transferring $2000.00 to the neighborhood’s fund.

   • Neighbors asked about gunshots & noise in the neighborhood, especially coming from Crestwood North. Ms. Bailey advised to call 911 if anyone hears gunshots.

   • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

   • Not present.

   • School Board

   • Neonta Williams, District 2

   • Not present.

   • Mary Boehm, District 3

   • Not present.

7. Announcements

   • Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - TBD

   • Recycling pickup dates - April 3rd, April 17th

   • Next meeting - April 22, 2024

Meeting Minutes for February 2024

1. Present February 2024 Agenda

   • February 2024 agenda was presented to meeting attendees.

2. Read January 2024 Meeting Minutes

   • January 2024 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

3. New Business

   • Approve February 2024 Agenda

   • Motion to approve the agenda for the February 26, 2024 neighborhood association meeting was made by Luke Hansen and seconded by Jenny Knott.

   • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

   • Approve meeting minutes for January 2024

   • Motion to approve minutes was made by Rebecca Rogers and seconded by Charles Worthington.

   • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

   • Motion to deviate from the agenda.

   • Motion to deviate from the agenda and briefly suspend the meeting for Lakita Hall-Wright to speak to the neighborhood about her candidacy was made by Jenny Knott and seconded by Rebecca.

   • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

   • Motion to resume the meeting.

   • Motion to resume the meeting and continue in accordance with the approved agenda was made by Rebecca Rogers and seconded by Luke Hansen.

   • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

4. Presentations

   • Brian Fisher - Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Coordinator with Community Bank

   • Community Credit Class partnering with Birmingham United Way teaching free financial literacy classes. Participants receive a certificate offering an account in order to build credit.

   • Jenny Knott - Clairmont Walking Trail Safe Approach Project

   • Ms. Knott presented traffic calming suggestions for Clairmont Walking Trail.

   • Ms. Knott is proposing additional signage and pedestrian road paintings surrounding the north-eastern trailhead of the Clairmont Walking Trail.

   • Neighbors who are interested in supporting this effort can contact Ms. Knott at jenniferknott007@gmail.com.

5. Reports

   • Officer Reports

   • Reception to Honor Virginia Volker - March 21st at 6 PM at the Levite Jewish Community Center

   • Crestwood Blvd Litter Cleanup - Saturday, March 16th from 9-11am

   • Meet at corner of Crestwood Blvd & Cresthill Rd

   • Trash bags, grabbers, and gloves will be provided

   • Blood Drive -  Wednesday, Feb. 28 at the Boutwell Auditorium from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

   • To register visit www.redcrossblood.org; look for “Find My Drive” and enter code: BHM; select an available time slot to sign up.

   • Birmingham Planning Commission Meeting - Wednesday, March 6th at 8:30am at Birmingham City Hall, 3rd Floor, City Council Chambers

   • Review the plans at: https://www.imaginebham.com.

   • Fire

   • Not present.

   • Police - Officer Coleman, Birmingham Police Department East Precinct

   • Officer Coleman shared recent crime stats for the city of Birmingham and the east precinct.

   • Officer Coleman noted that home security cameras often aid officers in solving open cases.

   • To contact the Crime Prevention Officer for East Precinct, call (205) 933-4110.

   • Public Works - Arthur Wilder

   • Not present.

   • To report public works issues to Mr. Wilder call 205-254-2061 or email arthur.wilder2@birminghamal.gov.

   • CRR - Harold Houston

   • Neighborhood account balance is currently $17,497.79.

   • Mr. Houston shared code enforcement brochures to meeting attendees.

   • Coffee with Code Enforcement event taking place February 29th at 10 AM at Central Park Recreation Center.

   • Police Code Enforcement Citations

   • Mr. Houston noted that police officers will now be involved with executing code enforcement fines to offenders.

   • To report neighborhood issues to Mr. Houston, call 205-254-2523 or email harold.houston@birminghamal.gov.

   • CAB - Liz Murray

   • Next CAB meeting will be open to the public State of the Budget, third Monday in march

   • Recycling Updates

   • Recycling pilot program is no longer active to residents who previously received blue bins from the City. The City will continue regular recycling pick up every first and third Wednesday of the month.

6. City Representatives

   • City Council Representatives

   • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2 (Represented by India Bailey)

   • Clairmont Walking Trail

   • Ms. Bailey described “Phase III” of upcoming improvements to the Clairmont Walking Trail.

   • Additional sidewalks will be installed. Crestwood South residents can expect a mailer that will provide more information.

   • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

   • Not present.

   • School Board

   • Neonta Williams, District 2

   • Not present.

   • Mary Boehm, District 3

   • Not present.

7. Announcements

   • Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - TBD

   • Recycling pickup dates - March 6th, March 20th

   • Next meeting - March 25th

Meeting Minutes for January 2024

I Present January 2024 Agenda

• January 2024 agenda was presented to meeting attendees.

II Read November 2023 Meeting Minutes

• November 2023 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

III New Business

• Approve January 2024 Agenda

• Motion to approve the agenda for the January 22, 2024 neighborhood association meeting was made by Marybeth Nicodemus and seconded by Timothy Hall.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• Approve meeting minutes for November 2023

• Motion to approve minutes was made by Renee Tucker and seconded by Debbie Purcell.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

IV Presentations

• Marybeth Nicodemus - Crestwood Beautification

  • Ms. Nicodeums shared results of a recent survey about potential neighborhood beautification projects.

  • The goal of the survey was to gauge interest in a variety of potential projects aimed at improving the beautification of the neighborhood.

  • The top ranked request was adding welcome signage to major neighborhood entrances.

  • Following the survey, Ms. Nicodemus and neighborhood officers are following up with City officials to discuss legal limitations and budget for potential beautification projects.

V Reports

• Officer Reports

  • 2024 Electronic Collection and Paper Shredding: Saturday, Jan. 27th from 9-11:30 a.m at Birmingham Zoo, 2630 Cahaba Road

    • Crews will accept: Cable boxes, modems, routers, computers, rechargeable batteries, cameras, security equipment, cords, cables, chargers, small appliances, cell phones and tablets, printers, fax machines televisions, monitors, paper and paper folders 

    • Alkaline batteries, cardboard, lightbulbs, wet paper, major appliances, and binders/binder clips will not be accepted.

    • Participants are asked to please place items in the trunk or bed of their vehicle for removal.

  • Jefferson County Department of Health Your Opinion Matters! Survey

    • The JCDH is asking residents to complete the Jefferson County Department of Health Your Opinion Matters! Survey, available until March 2024.

    • Organizers will use the data to help identify key issues impacting health in Jefferson County and how to improve health and quality of life. Participants’ answers will be confidential.

    • The survey is available online in English at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/B2P92HW and in Spanish at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/YJFR8BW

• Fire

  • Not present.

• Police - Officer Lucas, Birmingham Police Department East Precinct

  • No major violent crimes to report for our area.

  • Most recent issues are related to traffic violations and alarms.

• Public Works - Arthur Wilder

  • Not present.

  • To report public works issues to Mr. Wilder, call 205-254-2061 or email arthur.wilder2@birminghamal.gov.

• CRR - Harold Houston

  • Not present.

  • To report missed bulk trash and brush pick up, call 205-254-2489.

  • To report neighborhood issues to Mr. Houston, call 205-254-2523 or email harold.Houston@birminghamal.gov.

• CAB - Liz Murray

• CAB was meeting at the same time as the CSNA meeting. Frank McCrory is attending in her stead.

• Ms. Murray reported on the 2023 MLK breakfast.

V City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

  • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2 (Represented by India Bailey)

    • Timothy Hall asked about the status of the Parking Minimum Vote the Council was considering.

    • Legal language needed to be changed. No updates at this time. Ms. Bailey suggested following up next week.

  • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

    • Parking Minimum Zoning Ordinance update

      • The Council was supposed to review the planning commission but the meeting was canceled because of weather.

      • Ordinance includes language that could limit parking for residences in addition to commercial and industrial zoning.

      • Could return to the Council’s agenda in the next few weeks.School Board

    • Debbie Purcell reported that it has been five weeks since her recycling has been picked up by the City due to holidays.

    • Next recycling pickup from the City will be 

    • Residents can set out their recycling in a City provided bin or a clear garbage bag.

    • The Council is slated to approve the purchase of new recycling bins with lids sometime in 2024.

    • Councilor Abbot alerted residents that if their recycling is wet by inclement weather that it will no longer be accepted by recycling pick up.

  • Neonta Williams, District 2

    • Not present.

  • Mary Boehm, District 3

    • Reviewing proposals for two Charter Schools and will vote January 23, 2024.

    • Report Card released

    • Overall: 72

    • Academic achievement: 38

    • Academic growth: 89

    • Graduation rate: 83

    • Chronic absenteeism - 23

    • College and career readiness - 59

    • Intersession

    • Program where students have a chance to come to school and make up missed work or school days.

    • Partnership with EdFarm

    • Technology training for teachers to help them use devices effectively for learning.

    • Avondale Kudzu

    • Two year process in progress of removing excessive kudzu near Avondale Elementary.

VI Announcements

• Brush pickup dates - TBD

• Recycling pickup dates - February 7th, February 21st

• Next meeting - February 26th

Meeting Minutes for November 2023

I Present November 2023 Agenda

• November 2023 agenda was presented to meeting attendees.

II Read October 2023 Meeting Minutes

• Octobert 2023 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

III New Business

• Approve November 2023 Agenda

• Motion to approve the agenda for the November 27, 2023 neighborhood association meeting was made by Charles Worthington and seconded by Elizabeth Murray.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• Approve meeting minutes for October 2023

• Motion to approve minutes was made by Renee Tucker and seconded by Charles Worthington.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

IV Reports

• Officer Reports

  • Crestwood Community Band Christmas Concert at Cahaba Brewery on Monday, December 4th starting at 7pm.

• Fire

  • Not present.

• Police - Regina Mills, Crime Prevention Officer for East Precinct

  • Not Present.

• Public Works - Arthur Wilder

  • Not present.

  • To report public works issues to Mr. Wilder, call 205-254-2061 or email arthur.wilder2@birminghamal.gov.

• CRR - Harold Houston

  • Not present.

  • To report missed bulk trash and brush pick up, call 205-254-2489.

  • To report neighborhood issues to Mr. Houston, call 205-254-2523 or email harold.Houston@birminghamal.gov.

• CAB - Liz Murray

• Landscaping rules being updated for the City.

V City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

  • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2 (Represented by India Bailey)

    • Announced election of Darrell O’Quinn as new City Council President.

  • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

    • Council is considering loans for Birmingham Southern College.

• School Board

  • Neonta Williams, District 2

    • Not present.

  • Mary Boehm, District 3

    • Altec Innovation Challenge

    • Ramsay high was the winner, received $10,000

    • Low Cost Tiny Homes being built by Huffman

    • Funded by future owners

    • Charter school application window opened this month.

VI Announcements

• Brush pickup dates - TBD

• Recycling pickup dates - December 6th, December 20th

• Next meeting - January 22nd, 2024

Meeting Minutes for October 2023

I Present October 2023 Agenda

• October 2023 agenda was presented to meeting attendees.

II Read August 2023 Meeting Minutes

• August 2023 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

III New Business

• Approve October 2023 Agenda

• Motion to approve the agenda for the October 23, 2023 neighborhood association meeting was made by Houston Brown and seconded by Tim Hall.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• Approve meeting minutes for August 2023

• Motion to approve minutes was made by Houston Brown and seconded by Renee Tucker.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• 2024 MLK Unity Breakfast

• Motion to allocate $504.00 for the purchase of a table at the MLK Unity Breakfast made by Tim Hall and seconded Houston Brown.

• Motion was made by unanimous consent.

V Reports

• Officer Reports

  • Magic City Classic - October 28, 2023

    • Several roads will be closed on Saturday, Oct. 28 to accommodate the 8 a.m. Magic City Classic parade and the game day shuttles that will carry fans to and from Legion Field.

      • To view the Magic City Classic Parade Street Closures, please click here.

      • To view the closed street around Legion Field, please click here.

  • Classic Cocktails with Birmingham Public Library - Tuesday, October 24th @ 5:30-9pm

  • The 2nd annual Classic Cocktails is a kickoff party leading up to the 2023 Magic City Classic football game. The evening will feature signature cocktails, tailgate-style food, a cigar lounge, games, and more.

  • Tickets are $40 and available online.

• Fire

  • Not present.

• Police - Regina Mills, Crime Prevention Officer for East Precinct

  • Not Present.

• Public Works - Arthur Wilder

  • Not present.

  • To report public works issues to Mr. Wilder, call 205-254-2061 or email arthur.wilder2@birminghamal.gov.

• CRR - Harold Houston

  • Neighborhood Balance: $20,502.61

  • Community Veterans Family Day - October 28th

  • To report missed bulk trash and brush pick up, call 205-254-2489.

  • MLK Unity Breakfast

  • Deadline to purchase a table is October 31st.

  • Table for eight people is $504.

  • Dog Waste Station Refills

  • Project request is in progress.

  • To report neighborhood issues to Mr. Houston, call 205-254-2523 or email harold.Houston@birminghamal.gov.

• CAB - Liz Murray

• Glen Iris Neighborhood Association Election

• Lawsuit related to election

• Josh Yeates - Director of Public Works

• All trash cans have been delivered to Birmingham residents.

• Alleys will now be serviced by Public Works.

• Cans must be moved off the street within 24 hours after pick up occurs.

• Public Works will no longer service apartments that have more than four units.

VI City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

  • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2 (Represented by India Bailey)

    • Crestwood Park Erosion & Water Drainage

    • Work has started to address erosion and water drainage issues at Crestwood Park.

    • Downed Power Lines along Crestwood Boulevard

    • Area cannot be cleaned up until Alabama Power clears a downed tree. Councilor Williams’ office will continue to follow up with Alabama Power reps.

  • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

    • Garbage Carts

    • 1 day a week pick up

    • Must be placed on the curb in front of your residence, only bagged garbage inside the cans

    • Excess bags outside the can will not be picked up.

    • Cans must not be obscured by any object in order to be picked up.

    • Garbage trucks track whether pick up occurred with photos

    • If you live on a hill public works will assist with where to place garbage cans for special pick up.

• School Board

  • Neonta Williams, District 2

    • Not present.

  • Mary Boehm, District 3

    • Capital Projects 

    • Avondale Park hired a forester who will be removing invasive species. 

    • Forester potentially expanding scope of work to include Avondale elementary school.

    • Window replacements at Avondale Elementary.

    • Upgrading playgrounds at Avondale and Glen Iris.

VII Presentations

• Le’Andrea Anderson-Tolbert - The WISDOM Study

• The WISDOM Study is a partnership of breast health doctors and researchers, patient advocates, community leaders and women from all neighborhoods whose goal is to revolutionize the way breast cancer is detected and risk is reduced.

• The WISDOM Study compares two approved screening approaches: annual mammograms for all women, starting at the age of 40 or a personalized approach to breast screening that is based on a woman’s individual risk factors for breast cancer, like her breast density, genes, and family health history.

• Interested participants can visit The WISDOM Study online.

VIII Announcements

• Brush pickup dates - TBD

• Recycling pickup dates - November 1st, 15th 

• Next meeting - November 27th, 2023

  Please note: President Camille Worthington was not present at this meeting and her absence was excused.

Meeting Minutes for August 2023

August 2023 Minutes

I Present August 2023 Agenda

• August 2023 agenda was presented to meeting attendees.

II Read July 2023 Meeting Minutes

• July 2023 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

III New Business

• Approve August 2023 Agenda

• Motion to approve the agenda for the August 28, 2023 neighborhood association meeting was made by Steven MacNeil and seconded by Renee Tucker.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• Approve meeting minutes for July 2023

• Motion to approve minutes was made by Rebecca Rogers and seconded by Marybeth Nicodemus.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• Dog Waste Station Bag Refills - Clairmont Walking Trail

• Dog waste stations along the Clairmont Walking Trail require replenishing.

• Motion to allocate $500.82 to the Parks & Recreation Department of the City of Birmingham for the purchase of six (6) cartons of dog waste bags to replenish the existing dog waste stations along the Clairmont Walking Trail was made by Steven MacNeil and seconded by Charles Worthington.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• Variance Request - ZBA2023-00026

• Crestwood North residents, Brennan and Rutherford Yeates, have submitted a variance request for their property at the corner of Crestwood Blvd and 57th St S.

• If granted, the variance would allow the property owner to build a 6ft aluminum fence in the front yard along Crestwood Boulevard and 57th Street South.

• Outcome from previous neighborhood meeting:

• While the property is within the boundaries of Crestwood North neighborhood, the variance request was sent for the Crestwood South Neighborhood Association to review for the July 2023 meeting due to proximity and shared roadway of Crestwood Blvd.

• The resident requesting the variance was extended an invitation to the CSNA meeting to present their request, but declined to attend.

• CSNA officers presented the proposed site plan and example image provided by Kimberly Speorl, Zoning Administrator for the Planning, Engineering & Permits Department, during the neighborhood meeting.

• Neighbors discussed the variance request and the potential impact to the community. A motion was passed to not support the requested variance.

• The Zoning Board asked the property owners to attend CSNA’s August 2023 Neighborhood Meeting and present their request.

• The property owner noted they are asking for the variance for a taller fence for more privacy, preventing illegal parking and littering on the lot, and safety for their dog.

• The property owner noted that they have reduced the overall height of the fence at its tallest point from 8 feet to 6 feet. The portion of the fence in front of their dwelling would be 4 feet tall, and the other fence length would be 6 feet. They also noted that the Birmingham Department of Transportation approved the proposed site plan.

• The property owner provided updated visual renderings of the potential design of the fence.

• Vice President Murray asked about implications of setting a precedent if the neighborhood voted to approve the variance request.

• Kimberly Speorl, Zoning Administrator for the Planning, Engineering & Permits Department, responded that the Zoning Advisory Board considers all variance requests on a case by case basis. No precedent would be set for future variance requests if the neighborhood voted to approve this variance request.

• Ms. Speorl also advised that the neighborhood can provide suggestions on the design of the fence with their approval on the variance.

• Motion to support variance zoning request ZBA2023-00026 with the recommendation the portion of the fences facing the boulevard have a slatted design was made by John Davis and seconded by Marybeth Nicodemus.

• The motion passed with unanimous voice consent.

IV Presentations

• Marybeth Nicodemus - Crestwood Beautification

• Ms. Nicodemus presented the neighborhood with updates on ongoing beautification efforts and ideas for new beautification projects.

• Litter Clean Up

• Clean ups are organized every other month.

• Next clean up - Saturday September 30th

• Adopt-A-Street Litter Management Program in Crestwood South

• 9 of 31 sections adopted

• If interested in participating, click here to sign up.

• Neighborhood Signage

• Ms. Nicodemus presented different potential designs and placements of neighborhood entry signage.

• Secretary MacNeil suggested creating a survey to gather neighborhood sentiment on entry signage in an effort to narrow down options.

• If interested in joining the Crestwood South Neighborhood Beautification Committee, reach out to Ms. Nicodemus at marybeth.nicodemus@gmail.com.

V Reports

• Officer Reports

  • No CSNA meeting in September.

  • Household Hazardous Waste Event - October 21, 2023

  • Jefferson County Commission is funding a fall household hazardous waste event at the two Jefferson County Highway Camps on Saturday, October 21, 2023, from 8:00am – 11:30am. 

  • Site 1: Jefferson County Camp Bessemer, 3295 King Street, Bessemer, AL 35023

  • Site 2:  Jefferson County Camp Ketona, 131 County Shop Road, Birmingham, AL 35217

• Fire

  • Not present.

• Police - Regina Mills, Crime Prevention Officer for East Precinct

  • Thanked neighbors for attending this year’s National Night Out.

  • Provided crime stats for Eastern Precinct.

  • Safety Tips

  • Noted increase in bike thefts. Encouraged neighbors to securely lock their bikes.

  • Encouraged neighbors to be proactive about reporting suspicious activity through the 311 app.

  • Area Block Watch Mix and Mingle

  • August 31st at 6 PM at the East Precinct.

  • To contact Ms. Mills, call (205) 933-4110.

• Public Works - Arthur Wilder

  • Not present.

  • To report public works issues to Mr. Wilder, call 205-254-2061 or email arthur.wilder2@birminghamal.gov.

• CRR - Harold Houston

  • Not present.

  • To report neighborhood issues to Mr. Houston, call 205-254-2523 or email  harold.houston@birminghamal.gov.

VI City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

  • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2 (Represented by India Bailey)

    • Ms. Bailey provided an update on several previous neighborhood complaints.

    • Sidewalk maintenance on 47th is in the queue.

    • Downed power lines on Crestwood Blvd

    • No timeline but would continue reaching out to Alabama Power.

    • Crestwood Park

    • Erosion issues by Pickleball/Tennis courts will be addressed some time in early September.

  • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

    • Predatory Towing Ordinance

    • Birmingham City Council held a public hearing at its weekly council meeting on a proposed ordinance regulating commercial parking downtown. The changes are aimed to help stop predatory towing.

    • Will be voted on at the next council meeting.

    • Magic City ToolBank

      • Birmingham City Council voted Aug. 22 to approve a $345,000 agreement with ToolBank USA Inc. to develop a 5,000-square-foot facility that will house tools and equipment to assist with projects through a Birmingham ToolBank affiliate to be called Magic City ToolBank.

• School Board

  • Neonta Williams, District 2

    • Not present.

  • Mary Boehm, District 3

    • Contribution to Avondale Elementary

    • Ms. Boehm expressed gratitude to the Crestwood South Neighborhood Association for its contribution to Avondale Elementary.

    • Avondale Parents/PTA collected a total of $25,000 from CSNA, Forest Park/South Avondale Neighborhood Association and individual contributions for summer school programming.

    • Volunteer Opportunities

    • Page Pals

    • The City of Birmingham is partnering with Birmingham City Schools and the community to improve student reading ability. 

    • Page Pals is a reading initiative created in partnership with BCS to increase reading proficiency for elementary school students, specifically K-3. 

    • STAIR

    • STAIR is a childhood literacy nonprofit that trains volunteer tutors to partner with 1st and 2nd-grade students on their reading

VII Announcements

• Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - TBD

• Recycling pickup dates - September 6th, 20th

• Next meeting - October 23, 2023

Meeting Minutes for July 2023

Present July 2023 Agenda

• July 2023 agenda was presented to meeting attendees.

Read June 2023 Meeting Minutes

• June 2023 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

New Business

• Approve July 2023 Agenda

• Motion to approve the agenda for the July 24, 2023 neighborhood association meeting was made by Annie Wright and seconded by John Davis.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• Approve meeting minutes for June 2023

• Motion to approve minutes was made by Renee Tucker and seconded by Annie Wright.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

Presentations

• Emily Thayer, Outreach Coordinator - Birthwell Partners

  • BirthWell Partners is a non-profit organization that trains community doulas who provide caring, one-on-one support to under-resourced pregnant individuals in Central Alabama.

  • They are looking to recruit more doulas in Birmingham. Interested parties can contact info@BirthWellPartners.org or 205-614-3297.

Reports

• Officer Reports

  • Variance Request - ZBA2023-00026

  • A Crestwood North resident submitted a variance request for their property at the corner of Crestwood Blvd and 57th St S.

  • If granted, the variance would allow the property owner to build a 6ft and 8ft aluminum fence in the front yard along Crestwood Boulevard and 57th Street South.

  • Kimberly Speorl, Zoning Administrator for the Planning, Engineering & Permits Department, provided neighborhood officers the proposed site plan and an example image of what the fence may look like for the neighborhood to review. 

  • While the property is within the boundaries of Crestwood North neighborhood, the variance request was sent for the Crestwood South Neighborhood Association to review due to proximity and shared roadway of Crestwood Blvd.

  • The resident requesting the variance was extended an invitation to the CSNA meeting to present their request, but declined to attend. CSNA officers presented the proposed site plan and example image provided by Ms. Speorl during the neighborhood meeting.

  • Neighbors discussed the variance request and the potential impact to the community.

  • Various attendees voiced their concerns noting they felt the fence would be inappropriate for residential neighborhoods, had an unattractive design that does not match neighborhood aesthetic, and is too tall.

  • Motion to not support variance zoning request ZBA2023-00026 was made by Todd Snyder and seconded by Jerry Tucker.

  • Motion passed with unanimous voice vote.

  • Fight Club Fitness Women’s Self-Defense Classes

  • August 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th @ 4:30-6:30pm

  • $100 per person for the entire series.

• Fire

• Not present.

• Police

• Not present.

• Public Works - Arthur Wilder

• Not present.

• To report public works issues to Mr. Wilder call 205-254-2061 or email arthur.wilder2@birminghamal.gov.

• CRR - Harold Houston

• Current neighborhood balance: $16,165.69.

• To report neighborhood issues to Mr. Houston, call 205-254-2523 or email harold.Houston@birminghamal.gov.

• CAB - Liz Murray

  • Vice President Murray attended the July 17th CAB meeting.

  • Her notes are available here.

City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

  • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2 (Represented by India Bailey)

  • Ms. Bailey reported they have reached out to Alabama Power about Crestwood Blvd. and Cresthill Rd. regarding complaints raised from the previous meeting but have not received any updates.

  • Clairmont & Lincrest

  • Vice President Murray shared that a resident has requested a stop sign at this intersection.

  • Ms. Bailey reported that a traffic study was previously done and concluded that the intersection did not meet traffic thresholds for a stop sign.

  • Vice President Murray asked about progress on the former Trinity Hospital property redevelopment.

  • Ms. Bailey indicated that Councilor Williams’ office has been attempting to get in touch with the property developers for an update.

  • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

  • Recommended the myBham311 app for reporting city issues.

  • Information on how to download and use the MyBHAM 311 app is available here.

  • $11 million fixed route bus service and $3 million for BRT

  • CSNA is expected to receive approximately $2,300.00 from Councilor Abbott’s discretionary fund.

• School Board

• Neonta Williams, District 2

• Not present.

• Mary Boehm, District 3

•  Not present.

Announcements

• Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - TBD

• Curbside Recycling Pickup - August 2nd & 16th

• Next Meeting - August 28th

Meeting Minutes for June 2023

Present June 2023 Agenda

• June 2023 agenda was presented to meeting attendees.

Read May 2023 Meeting Minutes

• May 2023 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

New Business

• Approve June 2023 Agenda

• Motion to approve the agenda for the June 26, 2023 neighborhood association meeting was made by Luke Hanson and seconded by Renee Tucker.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• Approve meeting minutes for May 2023

• Motion to approve minutes was made by Rebecca Rogers and seconded by Debbie Blackmon.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

Presentations

• Cody Bass - Membership Director, Levite Jewish Community Center

  • Mr. Bass welcomed the neighborhood association to the LJCC.

• Jean Gannett - Public Art Project, Clairmont Walking Trail

• Take Only Pictures, Leave Only Footprints - a temporary public art installation on the Clairmont walking trail.

• Community Members are encouraged to submit photos or other artifacts related to the Clairmont Walking Trail.

• Contact Ms. Gannett at jgannett@uab.edu for more information.

Reports

• Officer Reports

• New CPO for Birmingham Police Department - Regina Mills

  • Ms. Mills can be contacted at Regina.mills@birminghamal.gov.

• Fire

• Not present.

• Police

• Not present.

• Public Works - Arthur Wilder

• Not present.

• To report public works issues to Mr. Wilder call 205-254-2061 or email arthur.wilder2@birminghamal.gov.

• CRR - Harold Houston

• Not present.

• To report neighborhood issues to Mr. Houston, call 205-254-2523 or email harold.Houston@birminghamal.gov.

• CAB - Liz Murray

  • No CAB update as the meeting took place at the same time as the CSNA meeting.

City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

• Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2 (Represented by India Bailey)

  • Council tomorrow voting on 2024 budget for the City

  • 554 million

  • Recycling pickup has resumed again.

  • If pickup is missed, report to Councilor Williams’ office.

  • Citizen Requests

  • Luke Hanson reported that powerlines/fiber cables are down and the sidewalk is not walkable along Crestwood Boulevard.

  • Debbie Purcell asked if the upcoming 4th of July holiday will impact city services.

  • Ms. Bailey noted she would follow up, but they should not be impacted.

  • John Davis reported a damaged power pole along Montclair that was damaged by a vehicle.

• Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

• Not present.

• School Board

• Neonta Williams, District 2

• Not present.

• Mary Boehm, District 3

•  Camp Wellness in Summer School

• Diffusing stress and anxiety, positive self talk

• Several other camps are happening for Birmingham students.

• 2nd 3rd grade reading results

• Goes into effect next may

• 15% Epic increase in 3rd grade reading

• $82 million invested in school building over the last few years.

Announcements

• Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - TBD

• Recycling pickup dates - July 5th, July 19th

• Next meeting - July 24th

Meeting Minutes for May 2023

Present May 2023 Agenda

• May 2023 agenda was presented to meeting attendees.

Read April 2023 Meeting Minutes

• April 2023 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

New Business

• Approve May 2023 Agenda

• Motion to approve the agenda for the May 22, 2023 neighborhood association meeting was made by Kim Nguyen and seconded by Annie Wright.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• Approve meeting minutes for April 2023

• Motion to approve minutes was made by Luke Hanson and seconded by Timothy Hall.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

Presentations

• Jana White, Regional Planning Commission - Improving Transportation Services

• The Commission is collecting data on transportation needs in Birmingham via a survey.

• Neighbors can get more information about the survey by contacting Jana at janacdinc@gmail.com.

Reports

• Officer Reports

• Fishing Rodeo - Saturday, June 10th from 7am-1pm at East Lake Park

  • There will be lots of fish, vendors, food trucks, free live bait, and giveaways.

• The trash cart website has been updated with more information about trash services.

• Fire

• Not present.

• Police

• Not present.

• Public Works - Arthur Wilder

• Not present.

• To report public works issues to Mr. Wilder call 205-254-2061 or email arthur.wilder2@birminghamal.gov.

• CRR - Harold Houston

• Not present.

• To report neighborhood issues to Mr. Houston, call 205-254-2523 or email harold.Houston@birminghamal.gov.

• CAB - Liz Murray

  • No report from the previous meeting.

City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

• Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2 (Represented by India Bailey)

• Pothole on Clairmont and Linwood Court has been filled.

• 2024 Budget has been introduced to the Council by the Mayor’s office.

• Public budget hearing will be held Monday June 5th 5:00 PM at Boutwell Auditorium.

• Councilor Williams’ discretionary allocation of $2,000.00 will be distributed to our neighborhood account.

• Clairmont Walking trail grass and brush has been cleaned up.

• Liz Murray requested the garbage cans be emptied.

• Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

• Not present.

• School Board

• Neonta Williams, District 2

• Not present.

• Mary Boehm, District 3

•  Birmingham Promise has closed applications on internships.

• 150 students participated this year.

• Common Ground Program

• Program targeted towards reducing violence and enabling conflict resolution.

Announcements

• Brush pickup dates - TBA

• Recycling pickup - June 7th

• Next meeting - June 26th

Meeting Minutes for April 2023

Present April 2023 Agenda

• April 2023 agenda was presented to meeting attendees.

Read March 2023 Meeting Minutes

• March 2023 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

New Business

• Approve April 2023 Agenda

• Motion to approve the agenda for the April 24, 2023 neighborhood association meeting was made by Kim Nguyen and seconded by Annie Wright.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• Approve meeting minutes for March 2023

• Motion to approve minutes was made by Liz Murray and seconded by Dave Wood.

• Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

Presentations

• Birmingham Folk Festival - Stephen Collins

• Free festival in Avondale Park Amphitheater on May 6th.

• National Tennis Community Association - Kim Nguyen

• NTCA is focused on increasing free, public access to tennis and building stronger communities through the sport of tennis. 

• The NTCA will be promoting upcoming events and clinics.

• Neighbors who are interested in getting connected can visit the NTCA website.

Reports

• Officer Reports

• Recycling pickup is no longer twice a month of every month.

• Pickup occurs on the first Wednesday of every month.

• Updates to CrestwoodSouth.com

• New Completed Projects page.

• Includes recently completed projects funded using CSNA neighborhood allocations.

• Updated FAQs page.

• Includes frequently asked questions about the neighborhood association and City services.

• Public Notice of Draft Air Permit in Jefferson County, Alabama

• Birmingham residents have the opportunity to comment on the draft Air Permit for a minor source to be operated by Black Warrior Transmission Corporation, located at 3234-2710 Betty Hill Road, Adger, AL 35006.

• The public comment period for this area source facility will end on May 8, 2023. An electronic copy of the draft permit, engineering evaluation and the permit application is available from the Department’s website.

• Fire

• Not present.

• Police

• Not present.

• Public Works - Arthur Wilder

• Not present.

• To report public works issues to Mr. Wilder call 205-254-2061 or email arthur.wilder2@birminghamal.gov.

• CRR - Harold Houston

• Mr. Houston provided the trash and brush schedule for April 2023.

• Neighborhood account balance has not changed since last meeting.

• To report neighborhood issues to Mr. Houston, call 205-254-2523 or email harold.Houston@birminghamal.gov.

• CAB - Liz Murray

  • Notes from the April 2023 CAB meeting are available here.

City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

• Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2 (Represented by India Bailey)

• Renovations to the Council chambers has begun after being delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Council meetings will be taking place at Boutwell Auditorium until August.

• The MyBHAM 311 app has replaced the SeeClickFix app.

• Information on how to download and use the MyBHAM 311 app is available here.

• Councilor Williams’ office has submitted a request for the Clairmont Walking Trail to be mowed.

• Mary Beth Nicodemus requested the City consider building a sidewalk along Cresthill Road.

• Ms. Bailey noted that a sidewalk survey was done at the same time when the installed speed cushions were being researched. Ms. Bailey said she would try to find the results of the survey.

• A resident noted that the bathrooms at Crestwood Park are frequently locked.

• Ms. Bailey noted she would relay this request to the Parks administration.

• Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

• Not present.

• School Board

• Neonta Williams, District 2

• Not present.

• Mary Boehm, District 3

•  Honored Teachers of the Year for 2023

• Carver High School

• Gaskins

• Rotary Club honored four students with scholarships of $2000/year for the next four years.

Announcements

• Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - TBA

• Recycling pickup - May 3rd

• Next meeting - May 22nd