Meeting Minutes for April 2022

Crestwood South Neighborhood Association - info@crestwoodsouth.com

1. Read & Approve Previous Meeting Minutes - March 2022

   • March 2022 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

     • Motion to approve minutes was made by Renee Tucker and seconded by Patricia Todd.

       • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

2. Candidates

   • Felicia Rucker-Sumerlin, Candidate for Jefferson County Sheriff

     • Ms. Rucker-Sumerlin was allowed 3 minutes to introduce herself to the neighborhood and answer any questions about her campaign.

     • Information about Ms. Rucker-Sumerlin's campaign can be found at FeliciaforSheriff.org.

3. Reports

   • Officer Report

     • Transitioning to in-person meetings

       • Officers are working with The Arc of Central Alabama to determine if CSNA can return to in-person meetings at their building.

       • Officers have also been offered the Crestwood Tavern as a potential meeting location if the ARC is no longer available to the neighborhood.

         • Attendees discussed the pros and cons of hosting neighborhood meetings at Crestwood Tavern.

       • Patricia Todd noted she would be interested in helping increase meeting attendance.

     • Jasmine Fells is no longer our CRR. 

       • Until we are assigned a new CRR, Community Resource Services Division Deputy Director Alice Williams will be representing our neighborhood. She can be reached at Alice.Williams@birminghamal.gov or via phone at (205) 297-8085.

     • Crestwood Blvd clean up prior to World Games

       • CAB recommended organizing a clean up closer to the dates of the World Games.

   • Fire

     • Not present.

   • Police - Jessica Burton

     • Not present.

     • To contact Ms. Burton, call 205-254-2684 or email Jessica.Burton@Birminghamal.gov.

   • Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

     • Not present.

     • Check out BPLOnline.org for library events and program offerings.

   • Public Works - Arthur Wilder

     • Vice President Elizabeth Murrary noted that City crews had recently trimmed some trees along the Clairmont Walking trail that have not yet been disposed of.

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

   • CAB - Elizabeth Murray

     • Birmingham City Council approved the redrawing of its district boundaries in accordance to population changes from the 2020 census results.

     • All Birmingham residents qualify for flood insurance through FloodSmart.gov whether they live in a floodplain or not.

4. Representatives

   • City Council Representatives

     • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

       • Not present.

     • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

       • Discussed district changes due to census results.

       • Noted ongoing littering issues happening around the City and efforts to address them.

   • School Board

     • Neonta Williams, District 2

       • Not present.

     • Mary Boehm, District 3

       • Provided updates on new state legislation from the recent session.

         • Teacher pay raise has been mandated.

         • Numeracy Act - goal of boosting math education through the fifth grade.

       • BSC Teacher of the Year

         • Two finalists were nominated from District 3 schools.

       • Patrica Todd asked how recently passed legislation criminalizing medical care for young transgender people who are transitioning, bathroom and locker mandates based on assigned gender identity and limits on classroom discussions on gender and sexual orientation would impact educators and students in Birmingham.

         • Representative Boehm noted that the Board has not yet addressed ramifications of these new laws.

5. Announcements

   • Brush pickup dates - May schedule not yet released.

   • Recycling pickup dates - May 4th, May 18th

   • Next meeting - May 23rd

Meeting Minutes for March 2022

Crestwood South Neighborhood Association - info@crestwoodsouth.com

1. Read & Approve Previous Meeting Minutes - February 2022

   • February 2022 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

     • Motion to approve minutes was made by Renee Tucker and seconded by Vincent Solfronk.

       • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

2. New Business

   • Zoning Variance Request (ZBA2022-00011) - 5556 12th Ave S

     • Resident Jordan Middleton (represented by John Forney) has requested a variance for their property at 5556 12th Ave S.

       • If granted, the variance would allow the front yard of the property to be setback at 36.10 feet instead of the 30 foot required setback.

       • The property owners need the variance to build a front porch and close in the existing carport.

     • Motion to support variance zoning request ZBA2022-00011 was made by Elizabeth Murray and seconded by Vincent Solfronk.

       • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

3. Candidates

   • Alisha Ruffin May - Candidate for Circuit Court Judge, Place 20

   • Ms. May was allowed 3 minutes to introduce herself to the neighborhood and answer any questions about her campaign.

   • Information about Ms. May's campaign can be found at voteruffinforjudge.com. Ms. May can be contacted via telephone at (205) 462-7792.

   • Adrienne Powell - Candidate for Circuit Court Judge, Place 23

     • Ms. Powell was allowed 3 minutes to introduce herself to the neighborhood and answer any questions about her campaign.

     • Information about Ms. Powell's campaign can be found at votepowellforjudge.com.

4. Reports

   • Officer Report

     • CMC Steel permit renewal

       • Public comment period is February 27, 2022 through April 12, 2022.

       • An electronic copy of the draft permit, engineering review, and the permit application is available from the Department's website.

       • Please contact Jason Howanitz from the JCHD at 205-930-1284 if you have any questions or comments.

   • Fire

     • Not present.

   • Police - Jessica Burton

     • Reported one residential burglary and one auto theft in Eagle View apartments.

     • A home on the 1500 block of Clairmont Ave had a break in via an unlocked door.

     • Ms. Burton recommended replacing standard strike plate screws with longer screws to decrease the chances of your door being kicked in.

     • To contact Ms. Burton, call 205-254-2684 or email Jessica.Burton@Birminghamal.gov.

   • Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

     • Check out BPLOnline.org for library program offerings.

       • March 31st, 7:00 PM - Bards & Brews April Fools Slam at Cahaba Brewing Company.

       • April 7, 2022 6:00 PM - "A Novel Tasting" Fundraiser at the Central Library downtown will feature a tasting of wines, craft beers, and locally distilled spirits.

   • Public Works - Arthur Wilder

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

   • CRR - Jasmine Fells

     • Not present.

     • To report neighborhood issues to Ms. Fells, call 205-297-8336 or email jasmine.fells@birminghamal.gov.

   • CAB - Elizabeth Murray

     • Public Meeting on council redistricting at the Birmingham Crossplex on March 29th at 5:30 PM. Residents can view the Redistricting Map information here.

5. Representatives

   • City Council Representatives

     • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

       • Vote for granting $2000 to the neighborhood fund is on the council agenda for March 29th.

     • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

       • Not present.

   • School Board

     • Neonta Williams, District 2

       • Not present.

     • Mary Boehm, District 3

       • The Mayor's office, City Council and School Board are working together to further improve Birmingham’s city schools.

6. Announcements

   • Brush pickup dates - March 30th, April 20th

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

   • Next meeting - April 25th

Meeting Minutes for February 2022

Crestwood South Neighborhood Association - info@crestwoodsouth.com

1. Read & Approve Previous Meeting Minutes - January 2022

   • January 2022 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

     • Motion to approve minutes was made by Patricia Todd and seconded by Vincent Solfronk.

       • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

2. Candidates

   • Brit Blalock - Candidate for AL House District 54

     • Brit Blalock was allowed 3 minutes to introduce herself to the neighborhood and answer any questions about her campaign.

     • Information about Brit Blalock’s campaign can be found at www.britwontquit.com.

     • To contact Brit Blalock, email brit@britwontquit.com.

3. Reports

   • Officer Report

     • Household Hazardous waste day

   • Fire

     • Not present.

   • Police - Jessica Burton, Sergeant Hutchison

     • 1 auto theft on Southall Rd, vehicle unlocked but vehicle was recovered.

     • March 23rd Coffee with a Cop

     • 911 vs non emergency number

       • If there is a time delay or no suspect in sight, call non emergency number 205-328-9311

       • If you are witnessing a crime in real time or fear for your safety or the safety of others, call 911.

     • Encouraged residents to securely store their firearms in their homes instead of their vehicles due to an increase in vehicle break ins across the city.

     • To contact Ms. Burton, call 205-254-2684 or email Jessica.Burton@Birminghamal.gov.

   • Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

     • Eastlake library is still closed, but most other locations are open.

     • Check out BPLOnline.org for library program offerings.

   • Public Works - Arthur Wilder

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

     • Samantha Chodabarapu reported a storm water issue around the 5700 block of 12th Avenue South.

     • Hana Berres reported that residents from The Union At Cooper Hill apartments were throwing garbage over the hill into neighbors’ yards in the 1600 block of Cresthill Road. 

     • Larry Myers reported a dead tree that needs removing at the intersection of 53rd St S and 12th Ave S.

   • CRR - Harold Houston

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

     • Mr. Houston is being transferred to the West neighborhoods. Crestwood South will be assigned a new CRR.

     • Current neighborhood balance is $12356.41.

   • CAB - Elizabeth Murray

     • No report.

4. State & City Representatives

   • AL House of Representatives

     • Neil Rafferty, District 54

       • Information about Neil Rafferty’s campaign can be found at RepRafferty.com

       • To contact Representative Rafferty, call 205-215-8270 or email Reprafferty@gmail.com

       • Vice President Elizabeth Murray asked if Rep. Rafferty could assist in getting in touch with Senator Smitherman who was supposed to donate funding for the Clairmont Walking Trail lighting project.

   • City Council Representatives

     • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

       • Redistricting at the City level due to census data.

         • District 2 will lose 20% of its previous population.

         • Councilor Williams will be giving $2000 to Crestwood South’s neighborhood fund.

     • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

       • Not present.

   • School Board

     • Neonta Williams, District 2

       • Not present.

     • Mary Boehm, District 3

       • Not present.

5. New Business

   • NUSA Conference - Little Rock, Arkansas May 4-7, 2022

     • $2,500 per delegate

     • Requests must be submitted by March 1, 2022

6. Announcements

   • Brush pickup dates - March 9th, March 30th

   • Recycling pickup dates - March 2nd, March 16th

   • Next meeting - March 28th

Meeting Minutes for January 2022

January, 2022 Minutes

I Read Previous Meeting Minutes - November 2021

• November 2021 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

II New Business

• Approve November 2021 meeting minutes.

  • Motion to approve minutes was made by Paul Rich and seconded by Renee Tucker.

    • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• Cresthill Speed Cushions - 8 speed cushions totaling $8,550

  • Neighbors expressed concern about speeding on Cresthill Road, so a traffic study was conducted.

  • Neighborhood being asked to provide $4,275 for this project.

    • City will cover half of the cost if the neighborhood covers the other half.

• Motion to approve expense of $4,275 for adding 8 speed cushions to Cresthill Road was made by Kayla MacNeil and seconded by Paul Rich.

  • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• Paul Rich - Crestwood Park Pickleball Courts

  • Previously presented Crestwood Pickleball Group’s proposal for renovating pickleball courts at Crestwood Park.

  • Determined that previously presented proposal brought up safety concerns for pickleball players.

    • Original proposal would replace four junior tennis courts with regulation sized pickleball courts and would keep the two adult tennis courts that now exist in Crestwood Park.

    • New proposal would remove one of the two adult tennis courts from Crestwood Park and replace it with two additional Pickleball courts in order to have adequate space for pickleball players.

      • Still raising money for the project, but plans to resurface the entire court and replace the nets in all the courts.

  • President Murray noted the backboard that the neighborhood purchased should be maintained in the tennis court area. 

  • Jill Prestridge asked about rules of joining the game or reserving courts.

    • Mr. Rich discussed how the pickleball league promoted tournaments and noted that anyone was welcome to play at any time.

  • Kayla MacNeil asked about pushback about losing one of the tennis courts in the park.

    • CWN was dealing with a variance at last meeting and could not meet, meeting tomorrow night

    • Mr. Rich noted that other cities in surrounding municipalities have 

    • Park Board onboard with plans

  • Motion to approve new proposal of the Crestwood Park Pickleball Cout renovation was made by Jill Prestridge and seconded by Charles Worthington.

    • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

III Reports

• Officer Reports

  • 2022 Neighborhood Officer Election Information Session - January 25th @ 5:30pm on WebEx; email communityResourceServices@birminghamal.gov for more information.

• Fire

  • Not present.

• Police - Jessica Burton

  • Crime map 

    • 1 auto theft

    • No other crime reports for the end of last year.

  • Crimes can be reported anonymously to Ms. Burton.

  • Captain Quigley-Vining 205-279-8939 julie.quiqley-vining@birminghamal.gov 

    • Have seen an uptick in older model auto thefts to be stripped down for parts.

    • If any suspicious activity is noted, please contact the non-emergency number.

• Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

  • Thanked the neighborhood for continued support of the library.

  • Closed libraries - Springville, Eastlake and Powderly due to building issues.

  • Check out BPLOnline.org for programs.

  • Bards and Brews Slam Feb 4th 6:30-9:00

• 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

  • Balance $12,756.41.

  • Deadline for NUSA applications is March 1st

  • CAB meeting in February

    • Mayor wants feedback and priorities from neighborhood officers.

    • Send feedback to info@crestwoodsouth.com.

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

• CAB - Elizabeth Murray

  • No report.

IV City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

  • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

    • India Bailey was at the meeting on Councilor Williams’ behalf.

    • New VA clinic doing ribbon cutting

      • Opening for community tour

    • Vice President Murray noted three issues adjacent to the Clairmont Walking trail.

      • A recent trail clean up from the city resulted in leaves being blown in the street and have not been cleaned up.

      • In the 4800 block of Clairmont, a tree was hit by a vehicle and needs to be removed.

      • Spectrum removed a section of the trail to do work and have not come back to repair.

  • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

    • Dr. Darryl Lee was at the meeting on Councilor Abbott’s behalf.

    • City approved USFL

      • Grand announcement at protective stadium

      • Anticipating sending the league for 1-2 years.

    • COVID tests available through US government

      • 4 kits per household

    • Please call 311 to report all complaints for tracking purposes.

      • Easier to see completion status of a request if added through the 311 system.

    • Law requires that redistricting after census

      • District lines will be redrawn.

    • Richard Arrington bridge is temporarily closed due to renovations.

• School Board

  • Neonta Williams, District 2

    • Not present.

  • Mary Boehm, District 3

    • Not present.

V Announcements

• Brush pickup dates - TBD

• Recycling pickup dates - February 2nd, February 16th

• Street Sweeper - February 9th

• Next meeting - February 28th

Meeting Minutes for November 2021

November 22, 2021 Minutes

I Read Previous Meeting Minutes - October 2021

• October 2021 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

II New Business

• Approve October 2021 meeting minutes

  • Motion to approve minutes was made by Houston Brown and seconded by Dr. William Meneese.

    • Motion was approved by unanimous consent

• Paul Rich - Crestwood park

  • Presented Crestwood Pickleball Group’s proposal for renovating pickleball courts at Crestwood Park

  • The proposal is to modify the 4 junior tennis courts into pickle ball courts, oriented north to south.  Junior courts currently face east to west.

  • Motion to support the Crestwood Pickleball Group’s proposal for renovating the junior tennis courts into 4 pickleball courts oriented north to south at Crestwood Park made by Elizabeth Murray and seconded by Houston Brown.

    • Motion was approved by unanimous consent

• Application for Alcohol Business License - Purple Event Center

  • Ms. Enge has applied for an alcohol business license for her business, Purple Event Center

  • Two types of licenses requested:

    • Division I Dance Permit (customers)- to all customers to dance during events

    • Special Retail License (over 30 days)- to allow alcohol to be served when the event center is rented out for an event

  • Motion to approve the Purple Event Center License Application was made by Dr. William Meneese and seconded by Houston Brown.

    • Motion was approved by unanimous consent

III Reports

• Officer Reports

  • Clairmont Avenue Walking Trail- retaining wall partially collapsed (4900 block)

    • Discussion about damage to the retaining walk on the 4900 block of the Clairmont Walking Trail. India Bailey and Valerie Abbott have both forwarded photos of damage to the city.

    • Dr. William Meneese requested to formally thank Councilor Williams and office for the Clairmont Walking Trail lighting project being completed. Elizabeth Murray volunteered to write a formal thank you letter from the neighborhood.

• Fire

  • Not present

• Police - Jessica Burton

  • Toy and Coat Drive November 12th through December 10th- Donations may be made to any precinct, jail, or police headquarters. Anyone in need can call 205-933-4175 to register.

  • Reminder to monitor deliveries and lock cars

  • Dr. William Meneese asked about enforcement of the refuse dumping ordinance on Clairmont Walking Trail property. Officer Burton and Arthur Wilder (Public Works) will follow up on refuse being dumped on the 52nd block of Clairmont. Councilor Abbott clarified that photographs will stand in for witnessing refuse dumping. So, if neighbors are able to photograph those in the act of illegal dumping, thy can forward those to the neighborhood representatives and police.

• Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

  • Not present

• Public Works - Arthur Wilder

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

  • Request to have 3 dead trees marked with red flags on Clairmont Walking Trail removed. Inspector Wilder will follow-up with forestry to have those removed.

• CRR - Harold Houston

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

  • CSNA current neighborhood balance: $12,756.41.

  • Request for 1 table for MLK Unity Breakfast is in process with accounting and law department

  • Swearing in ceremony for Mayor Woodfin taking place in Linn Park at 12pm (pre-ceremony beginning at 11am) on November 23rd

  • Urban forestry contact number for requesting removal of dead trees from the Clairmont Walking Trail: 204-254-2631

• CAB - Elizabeth Murray

  • Metrochangers for repairs and building ramps on houses, decks, roofs, etc… Elizabeth Murray can share application form with neighbors upon request

  • NUSA conference will be in Little Rock, AR- more details to come

  • CAB and county have received substantial amount of money from The American Recovery Act

  • 2022 World Games- City looking for volunteers for the 2022 World Games and is now taking applications for food vendors

IV City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

  • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2- India Bailey present to provide updates

    • Council voted to revoke business license and shut down the USA EconoLodge on November 16th

    • Councilor’s office delivered turkeys and meals over the past week

    • Completion of Clairmont Walking Trail lighting project

    • Discussion about lights on Clairmont Walking Trail being too bright. India will ask Alabama Power if there is anything that can be done to manage brightness.

  • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

    • US Secretary of Labor, Martin Walsh, held a rally at Kelly Ingram Park November 22nd to express success at raising the minimum wage of contract employees to $15

    • Week of November 15th, Mayor Woodfin and City Council members had a retreat at Jones Valley Teaching Farm to discuss city issues and city strategy

    • 311 system being updated to a more nationally used system which is planned to be deployed by Quarter 1 2022

    • Council members received a copy of the proposals for spending the American Recovery Act funding and have having continued discussions on the allocation of this funding. There will also be a second tranche of funding.

    • Discussion about tunnel going under Crestwood Boulevard and which district the tunnel is in, concerns about refuse surrounding that area and utility lines that are near or on the ground in that are. Some work already performed in October/November 2021 on the trees causing the bulk of the issues

• School Board

  • Neonta Williams, District 2

    • Not present

  • Mary Boehm, District 3

    • Not present

V Announcements

• Brush pickup dates - November 30th, December 21st

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

• Next meeting - January 24, 2022

Meeting Minutes for October 2021

October 25th, 2021 Minutes

I. Read Meeting Minutes - September 2021

• September 2021 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

II. New Business

• Approve meeting minutes for September 2021

  • Motion to approve minutes was made by Vincent Solfronk and seconded by Elizabeth Murrary.

    • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• MLK Unity Breakfast Table

  • Motion to approve expense of $400 for a table at the 36th Annual MLK Unity Breakfast was made by Vincent Solfronk and seconded by Betty Brown.

    • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

III. Presentations

• DeAngel Enge - Purple Event Center

  • Ms. Enge is interested in opening an event venue for weddings, corporate gatherings and birthday parties in the Crestwood Festival Center. She is an event planner who wants to try opening her own business.

  • Hana Berres, Cresthill Road Resident

    • Ms. Berres noted her property abuts to the Crestwood Festival Center and expressed many objections to Ms. Enge’s proposed business. Ms. Berres was concerned about the possible noise problems since deliveries would be made to the back door, the noise of garbage trucks in the early hours of the morning, the risk of drunk driving due to them serving alcohol, and lighting which will adversely affect her backyard garden and wildlife.

      • Ms. Enge noted that her business would be occupying a space that had previously housed a different event center. She further explained that she is not requesting any variances and intends to do business within the guidelines of the City of Birmingham including closing by midnight on weekend nights.

  • Tracy Giliom, Crestwood South Resident

    • Ms. Giliom stated that she was originally concerned but after speaking with Birmingham City officials about the issue, she was no longer alarmed and expressed support of Ms. Enge’s request.

  • Counselor Abbott expressed her confusion as to what the neighborhood needed to vote on since no variances were being requested by Ms. Enge.

    • After a discussion on proper parliamentary procedure, a motion was made by Houston Brown to adjourn the meeting until October 26th to consider the issue of the Enge application. The motion was seconded by Tracy Giliom and it was passed unanimously. 

    • President Worthington assured that everyone would be given notice of the resumed meeting once she has gotten clarity as to what the neighborhood is being asked to approve.

IV. Reports

• Officer Reports

  • A parcel of land next to The Arc of Central Alabama property behind 58th Street will be auctioned off in early November.

    • Property is zoned as R2 which only allows single family homes.

      • Any change in zoning would have to be voted on by the neighborhood.

    • Vice President Murray spoke of past proposed developments in the neighborhood and assured everyone that CSNA officers will keep an eye on the issue. 

• Police - Jessica Burton, Officer Hutchison

  • The Real Time Crime Center is open and will help solve crimes more quickly.

  • Trunk or Treat event has been canceled.

• Fire

  • Not present.

• Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

  • Bards & Brews event is taking place on November 5th at 6:30 at the Central Library in downtown Birmingham.

  • Many Halloween events are happening at the library. Check www.bplonline.org for details.

• Public Works - Arthur Wilder

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

  • Vice President Murray asked if visible fencing for dogs is legal. He wasn’t sure but said he would look into it.

  • Another neighbor asked about removing a pile of limbs and debris in the parking lot of Crestwood Park and asked about some leaning utility poles on the South side of Crestwood Boulevard between 50th and 52nd Streets. President Worthington thought this had already been inspected and the trees were deemed safe by the city.

• CRR - Harold Houston

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

• CSNA current neighborhood balance: $12,756.41.

• The cases of doggie bags the neighborhood ordered for the Clairmont Walking Trail have been delivered.

• All new neighborhood business needs to be voted on by November 1st.

• CAB - Liz Murray

  • No report.

V. City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

• Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

  • No reports.

• Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

  • No reports.

• School Board

  • Neonta Williams, District 2

    • Ms. Williams introduced herself and invited the neighborhood to attend the swearing-in of the new BBOE members on Tuesday, October 26, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. at A.H. Parker High School.

  • Mary Boehm, District 3

    • Not present.

VI. Announcements

• Brush pickup dates - November 4th, November 30th

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

• Next meeting - November 22nd

---

October 26th, 2021 Minutes

I. Return from Recess

• Motion to return from recess of previous meeting was made by Kayla MacNeil and seconded by Vincent Solfronk.

  • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

II. Read Meeting Minutes - October 25th, 2021

• Previous meeting minutes relevant to the Purple Event Center request were read to attendees.

III. Clarification on Item to be Voted On

• President Worthington clarified what the neighborhood needed to vote on regarding the proposed event center.

  • The City of Birmingham passed an ordinance in 2017 requiring special approval to allow any new event center to open and operate within the City.

  • Because Ms. Enge is a new owner who wants to open an event center after the 2017 ordinance passed, she requires this special approval.

    • This ordinance was put in place to ensure that the business owner is aware of restrictions on the hours of operation for an event center.

    • Additionally, the Zoning Board may require a traffic study to be conducted.

  • No variance request is required nor are any changes to the existing restrictions for the hours of operation being requested.

IV. Questions & Comments

• Hana Berres, Cresthill Road Resident

  • Ms. Berres noted her concerts regarding potential noise from vendors of the event center and garbage not being thrown in proper receptacles.

    • President Worthington noted that the requestor, Ms. Enge, previously stated that events would end at 11:00 PM to allow vendors time to leave by midnight.

    • Dr. Darryl Lee noted if noise or other nuisances occurs, to call Birmingham police. Dr. Lee also noted that he would share the City’s nuisance laws to be posted on Crestwood South website so they are available to neighbors.

• Liz Murray, CSNA Vice President

  • Vice President Murray suggested that the business owner could add signage to exits as a reminder to vendors about reducing noise.

V. Motion to Vote

• Motion to allow a special exception for an event center for The Purple Event Center was made by Kayla MacNeil and seconded by Houston Brown.

  • Votes in favor: 10

  • Votes opposed: 1

• Motion was approved by a majority vote.

Meeting Minutes for September 2021

I. Read Meeting Minutes - August 2021

• August 2021 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

II. New Business

• Approve meeting minutes for August 2021

  • Motion to approve minutes was made by John Lanier and seconded by Arthur Wilder.

    • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

III. Reports

• Officer Reports

  • CSNA adoption of Clairmont Walking Trail

    • Person who originally adopted the trail has moved, so CSNA has adopted the trail.

    • The Neighborhood is now in charge of any supplemental trail clean up days.

• Fire - Lt. Vernon

  • Next week is fire prevention week.

    • Birmingham Fire has made a goal of installing 150 fire detectors in honor of Birmingham's 150th anniversary.

    • Call 205-254-6560 to set up a free installation.

• Police - Jessica Burton, Sgt. Hutchison

  • No crime to report in Crestwood South.

  • BPD is seeing trends where citizens are waiting to report crimes.

    • Encouraged citizens to report crimes at the time of occurrence.

    • Ways to report crime:

      • Emergency: 911

      • Non-emergency: 205.328.9311

      • East Precinct: 205.254.2684

      • CrimeStoppers: 205.254.7777

      • Submit a tip on BPD app.

  • Contact Jessica Burton, 205.254.2684 ext. 6828 (office), 205.734.5674 (cell), jessica.burton@birminghamal.gov

• Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

  • Mr. Solfronk is now manager at the Springfield Road branch.

  • BPL is hosting a Star Wars themed reading program through October.

  • Most programs are still hosted online, but some branches have a few in person programs.

  • A drive through trick or treat event will be taking place October 26th 4-5 PM.

• Public Works - Arthur Wilder

  • Turned in request to have the walking trail cut and trash cans emptied on the trail.

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

• CRR - Harold Houston

  • Neighborhood balance $11,227.05.

  • Football tickets are available for officers to the Moorehouse vs Tuskeegee game.

  • Dog waste bags order has been approved and is in process.

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

• CAB - Liz Murray

  • No report.

V. City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

• Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

  • Represented by India Bailey

  • Lighting for claremont walking trail

    • Poles have come in, construction will start early October weather permitting.

    • Project is scheduled to be completed by the end of October.

  • Thanked the neighborhood for its support during the election.

• Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

  • Thanked the neighborhood for its support during the election.

  • City Council voted for additional street paving.

    • List of approved streets is available on the City’s website.

    • If you don’t see a street, call 311 to request the street be added. In your request include the name of the street and the cross streets that need paving.

  • Rental assistance program is still available.

  • Discretionary funds have been allocated for our account.

  • Revocation hearings to rescind business licenses that are causing trouble and police calls.

    • Last week for Hotel USA Econo Lodge in Eastwood.

    • Being given 2 months to improve issues or license will be revoked.

• School Board

  • Terri Michal, District 2

    • Not present.

  • Mary Boehm, District 3

    • Not present.

VI. Announcements

• Crestwood Community Band Concert

  • When: Monday, October 11 @ 7pm

  • Where: Cahaba Brewing Company (4500 5th Ave. S., Building C, Birmingham, AL 35222)

• Brush pickup dates - TBD

• Curbside recycling pickup dates - October 6th, October 20th

• Next meeting - October 25th

Meeting Minutes for August 2021

I. Read Meeting Minutes - July 2021

• July 2021 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

II. New Business

• Approve meeting minutes for July 2021

  • Motion to approve minutes was made by John Lanier and seconded by Arthur Wilder.

    • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

III. Reports

• Officer Reports

  • CSNA officers received a courtesy call from a realtor who let the neighborhood know the owner of the property adjacent to the former Comer School is planning on selling the lot.

    • A developer previously attempted to build a new housing development but this development was blocked by the City Council.

• Fire

  • Not present.

• Police - Jessica Burton

  • Ice Cream with a Cop will take place at Crestwood Pharmacy September 15th.

  • Ms. Burton encouraged neighbors to look into purchasing a keyless protector to prevent car theft via signal relaying.

• Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

  • Hours for Birmingham libraries remain the same.

  • Masks are required in the library branches due to the City’s building mask mandate.

• Public Works - Arthur Wilder

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

  • Liz Murray reported a possible break in a water main along Clairmont Walking Trail.

    • Inspector Wilder recommended reporting with Birmingham Water Works, but that he would check as well.

  • John Lanier reported 5500 block of Crestwood Boulevard where a tree was cut down and not collected and also where downed power lines are along Crestwood Boulevard.

• CRR - Harold Houston

  • Not present.

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

• CAB - Liz Murray

  • CAB is now back to virtual meetings.

  • CAB has elected the same leadership as the previous term.

  • CAB is working on the CPP.

    • Citizens Participation Plan - how business is done in CAB.

  • Mayor Woodfin reported there was a COVID outbreak in the Public Works department, causing potential delays in services.

V. City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

• Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

  • City elections take place August 24th. Encouraged participation.

• Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

  • CSNA dog bag request was approved by Budget & Finance, will be going to Council agenda.

• School Board

  • Terri Michal, District 2

    • Dr. Sullivan held press conference regarding COVID-19

      • New measures being put in place.

      • Over 200 reported cases wthin BIrmingham City Schools.

      • Ms. Michal encouraged any and all that are eligible to get the vaccine, to be vaccinated.

      • The school board is bringing in medical experts to schools to speak about the vaccine.

    • Danny Carr, Helping Families Initiative

      • Donations of school supplies has been provided through this program.

    • Putnum Middle School recently appointed a new principal.

  • Mary Boehm, District 3

    • Not present.

VI. Announcements

• City of Birmingham Election (Mayoral, City Council, Board of Education) - August 24th

  • Polling hours are 7:00am - 7:00pm

• Brush pickup dates - September 2nd, September 23rd

• Curbside recycling pickup dates - September 1st, September 15th

• Next meeting - September 27th

Meeting Minutes for July 2021

I. Read Meeting Minutes - June 2021

• June 2021 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

II. Candidates

• William Bell - Candidate for Mayor

  • Mayor Bell was allowed 3 minutes to introduce himself to the neighborhood and answer any questions from residents.

  • Voters can visit BellforBirmingham.com for more information about his candidacy and his vision for the city of Birmingham.

III. New Business

• Approve meeting minutes for June 2021

  • Motion to approve minutes was made by Patrica Todd and seconded by Vincent Solfronk.

    • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• Approve funding for dog waste station bags on Clairmont Walking Trail

  • Motion to approve $450.00 in neighborhood funding for dog waste station bags on Clairmont Walking Trail was made by Vincent Solfronk and seconded by Patricia Todd.

    • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

IV. Reports

• Officer Reports

  • None.

• Fire - Lt. Vernon, BFD in Avondale

  • Encouraged residents to get their vaccine. Many emergency calls recently have been due to COVID illness.

  • Encouraged residents to drink water when doing outdoor activities due to increased temperatures outside.

• Police - Sgt. Hutchison

  • Encouraged residents to lock their vehicles and remove any valuables from vehicles.

• Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

  • Summer reading programs are winding down.

  • Reminder that the libraries are open from 10-6 for all libraries.

    • Certain locations open on Sundays.

  • Notary and passport services are available. Call and set up an appointment.

  • Meeting rooms are now available to the public.

  • Mr. Solfronk is now manager at Springville Huffman branch.

• Public Works - Arthur Wilder

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

  • Next brush pickup is August 12th.

  • Renee Tucker reported that her recycling was not picked up on 50th Place South.

• CRR - Harold Houston

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

  • Neighborhood allocations currently stand at these amounts:

    • Non-capital: $9,227.05

    • Capital: $0.00

    • Total: $9,227.05

  • New Officer refresher training taking place on August 7th.

• CAB - Liz Murray

  • Liz noted that the CAB meetings are now taking place in person and was not aware they are no longer virtual.

V. City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

• Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

  • Cresthill Road speed reduction efforts.

    • Request has been put in for funding from the City instead of paying through neighborhood funding.

• Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

  • Usual city business on the agenda for the upcoming Council meeting.

    • Logging ordinance on the agenda to control logging properties within the city.

• School Board

  • Terri Michal, District 2

    • School starting August 2nd.

      • Waiting on info about masks from state department.

      • Representative Michals stated that she feels all employees and children under 12 should wear masks to school. Will be encouraging the superintendent to mandate masks for these groups.

    • Danny Carr, Helping Families Initiative

      • Donations of school supplies has been provided through this program.

    • Putnum Middle School recently appointed a new principal.

  • Mary Boehm, District 3

    • Not present.

VI. Announcements

• Brush pickup dates - August 12th

• Curbside Recycling pickup - August 4th, August 18th

• Next meeting - August 23rd

Meeting Minutes for June 2021

I. Read Meeting Minutes - May 2021

• May 2021 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

II. New Business

• Approve meeting minutes for May 2021

  • Motion to approve minutes was made by Vincent Solfronk and seconded by Renee Tucker.

    • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

III. Reports

• Officer Reports

  • Recycling pickup will increase to twice a month starting in July.

    • Pick up will be the first and third Wednesdays of the month.

• Police - Jessica Burton with Sargeant Brown

  • No crime to report for Crestwood South.

  • Thefts and homicides have increased for the city compared to last year.

  • Book drive

    • Asking donate books at HQ 1710 1st Ave north

    • Vincent Solfronk recommended the police department contact BPL for book donations.

• Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

  • Thanked the neighborhood for their continued support of the library.

  • Hours have changed to 10-6 Monday through Friday for most library locations.

  • BPL has been awarded two grants for funding.

    • $10K grant to sponsor new technology programs.

    • $50k grant from the American Library Association for COVID relief, which will be spent on materials budget.

  • BPL online programs are currently available.

  • Library meeting rooms are opening to the public starting in July.

• Public Works - Arthur Wilder

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

  • Crews will be cutting Clairmont Walking Trail before the July 4th holiday.

• CRR - Harold Houston

  • To report neighborhood issues to Mr. Houston, call 205-254-2523.

  • Neighborhood allocations currently stand at these amounts:

    • Non-capital: $9,227.05

    • Capital: $0.00

    • Total: $9,227.05

    • The neighborhood has a $0.00 balance from transferring funds to pay for updates to the Clairmont Walking trail. Funding will be reimbursed by Alabama State Senator Smitherman.

• CAB - Liz Murray

  • Speaker at CAB meeting discussed financial planning services, if interested contact Liz.

  • Birmingham 150 year anniversary events coming up soon.

  • Neighborhood officer training will take place in July.

  • Banks Highschool has begun demolition.

IV. City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

  • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

    • Cresthill Road Traffic calming

      • Neighbors responded to vote on whether to add traffic calming measures to Cresthill Road.

      • The threshold was met to implement speed cushions on Cresthill Road.

        • Cost to implement is approximately $8,500

        • Typically neighborhoods pay for this type of update, but Councillor Wiliams is going to ask the Mayor's office for financial support for this project.

  • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

    • City Council slated to vote to approve the City budget on the agenda for June 29th.

    • The Council is looking for two commitments from the Mayor’s office.

      • More money towards sidewalks.

      • Traffic calming measures at a 50/50 rate for neighborhoods and the city.

• School Board

  • Terri Michal, District 2

    • Townhall for District 2 taking place Wednesday night at 5:30 PM.

    • Helping Families Initiative is being expanded in the Birmingham school system.

      • Get kids to school in a timely manner.

    • July 21st 10 AM a groundbreaking ceremony for a new gymnasium at Huffman Middle School.

    • TeamTerri2021.com to review more about Representative Michal’s campaign.

  • Mary Boehm, District 3

    • Planning on running in the next election.

    • 4000 children are currently enrolled in summer school, highest enrollment of all time. Very important for a year where time was lost due to covid

    • Esser Funding

      • $7.5 mil on 1 instructional coach in each school while funding lasts

    • City schools have changed the calendar to start school on August 2nd with week-long inter-sessionary sessions.

      • Will bring in students to help them get caught up on things they have fallen behind on.

    • Working with colleges and universities to pay for tutors who are education majors.

V. Announcements

• Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - July 1st, July 22nd

• Curbside Recycling Pickup - July 7th, July 21st

• Next Meeting - July 26th

Meeting Minutes for May 2021

I. Read Meeting Minutes - April 2021

• April 2021 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

II. New Business

• Approve meeting minutes for April 2021

  • Motion to approve minutes was made by Camille Worthington and seconded by John Lanier.

    • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

III. Reports

• Officer Reports

  • Vice-President Murray discussed the possibility of returning to in person meetings in the near future and the types of precautions the neighborhood would take in order to facilitate in person meetings.

  • John Lanier asked if we would return to the ARC, which has not yet been determined.

• Police - Jessica Burton with Sargeant Brown

  • Ms. Burton provided crime stats for the East Precinct.

  • BPD recommends neighbors secure their lawn equipment as the summer months see an increase in lawn equipment theft.

  • Ann Wright requested an increased police presence on Crestwood Boulevard during the late afternoon hours to monitor speeding.

• Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

  • BPL is starting its Summer reading and learning programs.

    • There will be a June 5th kick off at the downtown library location.

    • Online summer learning programs are available on BPL website.

  • The public is not able to use meeting rooms but this will hopefully change in the near future.

  • Summer library hours are remaining the same and are available on BPL website.

• Public Works - Arthur Wilder

  • To report public works issues to Mr. Wilder call 205-254-2061.

  • Public Works will be cleaning out the trash cans on the Clairmont Walking Trail.

  • President MacNeil reported a downed stop sign at the corner of Clairmont and 12th Ave.

• CRR - Harold Houston

  • Neighborhood allocations currently stand at these amounts:

    • Non-capital: $17,690.24

    • Capital: $11,536.81

    • Total: $29,227.05

• CAB - Liz Murray

  • Neighborhood officer elections

    • June 15th swearing in for neighborhood officers that might be held virtually.

    • June 19th training for new officers at City Hall. More information to be provided.

  • World Games volunteers

    • The City needs 2500 volunteers for 4 hours minimum for the upcoming World Games. Interested individuals can register online at https://twg2022.com/volunteer/.

IV. City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

  • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

    • Addressed complaints about speeding on Crestwood Boulevard. 

    • Lawrence Myers asked Councilor Williams about cleaning out storm drains at 54th and 11th.

    • Vice President Murray asked if Councilor Williams knew the reason why the developer pulled the zoning request for the property located at 7040 Crestwood Boulevard but Councilor Williams was not sure.

      • Councilor Williams voiced his support for a more beneficial usage for that property, like a restaurant or specialized retail.

      • Councilor Williams recommended neighborhood leadership reach out to the property owner to discuss hopes for the property.

      • Councilor Williams said he would loop CSNA leadership in to zoning to discuss options of providing usage conditions.

  • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

    • Budget & Finance moved CSNA funding from non-capital account to capital account to help fund Clairmont Walking Trail lighting project.

    • Rental and utility assistance is available to Birmingham citizens in need.

      • Birmingham renters who’ve fallen behind in their rent and/or utility bills because of COVID-19 will soon be able to apply for relief, thanks to the City of Birmingham’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program.

• School Board

  • Terri Michal, District 2

    • Graduation is taking place the following week and will be live streamed.

    • Federal funding of 53 million dollars in ESSER funding for learning support will be used for supporting students through learning loss due to the pandemic.

    • Rep. Michal plans on running again in the next election cycle.

V. Announcements

• Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - June 10th

• Curbside Recycling Pickup - June 2nd

• Next Meeting - June 28th

Meeting Minutes for April 2021

I. Meeting Minutes - March 2021

• March 2021 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

II. New Business

• Approve meeting minutes for February 2021

  • Motion to approve minutes was made by John Lanier and seconded by Camille Worthington.

    • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

• Clairmont Walking Trail lighting project

  • Alabama State Senator Rodger Smitherman is donating $20,000 towards this project.

    • This donation takes the financial pressure off of the neighborhood so this project can be completed.

  • Motion to move $11,000 from CSNA non-capital funding account to the capital funding account was made by Vincent Solfronk and seconded by Camille Worthington.

    • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

  • Motion to spend $20,000 from CSNA capital funding account on the Clairmont Walking Trail lighting project which will be reimbursed by the end of the year from Senator Smitherman's donation made by Vincent Solfronk and seconded by Elizabeth Murray.

    • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

III. Candidates

• Neonta Williams - School Board District 2 Candidate

  • Ms. Williams was allowed 3 minutes to introduce herself to the neighborhood and answer any questions.

  • Voters can visit Neonta4District2.com for more information about her candidacy and her vision for Birmingham City Schools.

IV. Reports

• Officer Reports

  • Neighborhood Officer election results

    • Unofficial tally for the 2020/2021 neighborhood officer election results have been provided.

    • The following candidates have been elected to represent our neighborhood:

      • President: Camille Worthington

      • Vice-President: Elizabeth Murray

      • Secretary: Kayla MacNeil

• Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

  • The library is preparing for Summer Reading beginning in June.

  • The downtown location continues to be open Monday through Saturday

  • The library appreciates the community’s support as it copes with a reduced budget

• CRR - Harold Houston

  • Current neighborhood allocations:

    • Capital projects: $11,536.81

    • Non-capital projects: $17,690.24

  • April 29th will be the next large trash and brush pickup date

  • Five neighborhoods are contesting their officer elections, causing runoff elections to be scheduled and delaying certification of the elections.

V. City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

  • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

    • Councilor Williams has been working to facilitate the walking trail lighting project.

    • Amy Ware asked Councilor Williams about the weekly recycling pickup pilot project and whether or not that will become the recycling regime for other neighborhoods. Councilor Williams noted that the project is still underway, that its expansion to other neighborhoods is at the discretion of the Mayor’s office but that it doesn’t appear as though it will be expanded in the near future.

  • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

    • No updates.

• School Board

  • Terri Michal, District 2

    • Enrollment for the 2021-2022 school year is underway

    • The Board will be expanding their clinic project

    • John Lanier asked if the School Board knew the cause of a large drop in school enrollment over the previous school year that the State Superintendent. Board Member Michal noted that the pandemic caused many parents to move to home schooling or to simply withdraw their children from schooling entirely.

VI. Announcements

• Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - May 20th

• Curbside Recycling Pickup - May 5th

• Next Meeting - May 24th

Meeting Minutes for March 2021

1. Meeting Minutes - February 2021

   • February 2021 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

2. New Business

   • Approve meeting minutes for February 2021

     • Motion to approve minutes was made by Patrica Todd and seconded by Camille Worthington.

     • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

3. Candidates

   • Chris Woods - Candidate for Mayor of Birmingham

     • Mr. Woods was allowed 3 minutes to introduce himself to the neighborhood and answer any questions.

     • Voters can visit ChrisWoodsforMayor.com for more information about his candidacy and his vision for the city.

4. Reports

   • CSNA Officer Reports

     • Former Comer School Property

       • Property is currently owned by Altamont School

       • Beginning demolition of buildings 1 and 2

         • Gym building is remaining until they figure out what to do with the entire property

       • Nothing is being done on the property other than razing the buildings and rerouting some electrical, may be some additional fencing put up around the perimeter similar to what is already there.

         • No plans to build at this time, demolition is in response to vacant building issues

     • Potential Neighborhood Project - Lighting for Clairmont Walking Trail

       • The Clairmont Walking Trail Committee submitted a list of desired improvements to Councilor Hunter Williams, including improving the current lighting along the trail.

         • An engineering study was conducted on behalf of this request to determine how more lighting can be added to the trail.

         • Alabama Power provided an estimate of $120,000 for the project.

           • The proposal would require the neighborhood to provide $20,000 to move the project forward.

         • Style of lighting would be a continuation of what is already in place along the trail.

       • Counselor Williams presented an option to partially fund the project from CSNA funds and Crestwood South Inc. funds.

         • Current neighborhood account balance at $27,227.05

           • Non-Capital: $17,690.24

           • Capital: $9,536.81

       • In order to provide proper notice and receive feedback from Crestwood South residents, the discussion was tabled to be addressed at the April 26th neighborhood meeting with intentions to conduct a vote on this matter at that meeting.

       • Clairmont Walking Trail Committee meeting will take place April 5th at 6 PM.

         • All are welcome to attend. Contact wmeneese@bellsouth.net for more information.

   • Fire

     • Not present.

   • Police

     • Report provided via email.

     • Personal Hygiene Drive

       • BPD is holding a personal hygiene drive in honor of Women’s History Month.

         • Donations can be dropped off March 1st through March 29th at the BPD East Precinct, 600 Red Lane Road, Birmingham, AL 35215.

   • Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

     • Online programs available including programs honoring Women’s History Month.

     • Summer reading programs are starting.

       • Drive through kick off event happening June 5th at Downtown location.

     • BPL Board is voting to expand hours of Downtown location.

   • Public Works - Arthur Wilder

     • Attended but could not participate due to technical difficulties.

   • CRR - Harold Houston

     • Not present.

5. State & City Representatives

   • Alabama House of Representatives

     • Neil Rafferty, Representative District 54

       • Offered support of Clairmont Walking Trail lighting project.

       • Continuing to fight for Medicaid expansion, especially in consideration of the COVID 19 pandemic.

       • Terri Michal asked about recent legislation related to charter school funding.

         • Rep. Rafferty said he would review the related legislation.

       • John Lanier asked about Cemetery Commision bill for Birmingham HB194

         • Rep. Rafferty reported that the bill has made its way through the House and is awaiting hearing in the Senate.

       • John Lanier also asked about HB7

         • Rep. Rafferty said this bill was a priority for him but needed to check on the status of the bill.

       • Constituents can contact Rep. Rafferty at reprafferty@gmail.com or (205) 215-8270.

   • City Council Representatives

     • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

       • Speed bumps on Cresthill Road

         • City requires 75% approval from Cresthill Road residents in order to install traffic calming speed bumps.

           • Voting has not yet been completed at the time of this meeting but projected results indicate the majority of residents are not in favor.

       • Traffic calming study for 56th Street / Crestwood Blvd

         • Scheduled for engineering analysis in the fourth quarter of this year.

     • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

       • Reminded that the Council meeting is March 23rd.

         • Currently only handling critical City business.

       • Noted that she is running for her seat again.

       • District 3 town hall meeting will take place virtually on March 23rd at 6:00 PM.

   • School Board

     • Terri Michal, District 2

       • Regular work session March 23rd to address school calendar.

         • Proposed calendar to start school in August.

     • Mary Boehm, District 3

       • Not present.

6. Announcements

   • Neighborhood Association Elections - March 30, 2021 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

     • The following nominees are running for positions for the Crestwood South Neighborhood Association

       • President: Camille Worthington

       • Vice-President: Elizabeth Murray

       • Secretary: Kayla MacNeil

     • Voting Locations

       • Hooper City Recreation 3901-4th Street W Birmingham, AL

       • Memorial Park 524 6th Avenue South Birmingham, AL 35205

       • Hawkins Recreation Center 8920 Roebuck Blvd. Birmingham, AL 35206

       • Legion Field 400 Graymont Avenue West Birmingham, AL 35204

   • Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - April 8th, April 22nd

   • Curbside Recycling Pickup - April 7th

   • Next Meeting - April 26th

Meeting Minutes for February 2021

I. Meeting Minutes - January 2021

• January 2021 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

II. New Business

• Approve meeting minutes for January 2021

  • Motion to approve minutes was made by Camille Worthington and seconded by Amy Ware.

  • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

III. Reports

• Fire - Lt. Andy Ward

  • Notified to lower the flags at half staff because of 500 thousand deaths due to COVID.

    • Encouraged neighbors to receive their vaccine if they are able to do so.

  • Free smoke detector installations are still available.

    • Call 205-595-5801 to schedule an appointment for installation.

  • Hydrant testing will be coming up soon.

    • Testing will primarily take place in Mountain Ridge and Ledges of Altamont area of Crestwood South.

    • Should not disrupt neighbors water flow.

  • Firefighter training is coming in March.

  • Spring Cleaning at Station 10

    • Planting, replacing mulch to improve the outdoor area of the station.

• Police - Jessica Burton

  • No representative was present.

  • Annie Wright requested that police speed monitoring presence increased during the hours between 5 and 6 o’clock on Crestwood Blvd.

  • Other neighbors raised concerns about the intersection of 56th Street South and Crestwood Blvd.

    • India Bailey noted that the Department of Transportation would be the City department to contact about traffic calming issues.

      • Neighborhood officers will have a follow up to discuss this issue.

• Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

  • Springville Road library is temporarily closed.

  • All other libraries are open partially through the week and still doing curbside pickup/dropoff.

    • Hours are available on BPL website.

  • BPL website has several virtual programs available.

• Public Works - Arthur Wilder

  • Attended but could not participate due to technical difficulties.

• CRR - Harold Houston

  • Not present.

• CAB - Liz Murray

  • Department of Health officials encouraged Birmingham residents to get COVID vaccine if it is available.

  • Alice Williams discussed Neighborhood Elections.

    • Elections are tentatively scheduled for March 30th.

    • In person voting will be available at selected sites and the City is encouraging absentee voting.

    • Swearing in is tentatively scheduled for May 5th.

    • No other details available at this time.

  • NUSA conference will be held virtually this year.

    • Each neighborhood is allowed to send representatives to the conference.

IV. City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

  • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

    • Acknowledged issues brought up about Crestwood Blvd.

      • Encouraged residents to reach out to Birmingham DOT and ALDOT.

    • Conducted a study with Councilor O’Quinn on finding ways to make Crestwood Blvd more walkable in ways that ALDOT will allow the City to pursue.

    • Conducted a study with Alabama Power about adding additional lighting to Clairmont Walking Trail.

      • The total cost would be approximately $120,000.

    • Vaccines at the Eastwood Walmart will be available in March.

      • Residents can schedule an appointment on Walmart.com.

  • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

    • Computer equipment has been purchased for the real time crime department of the BPD.

    • $6.2 million in federal funding has been allocated for rental assistance program.

      • More information on how to apply for the program will soon be available and shared with neighborhood officers.

    • District 3 town hall meeting will take place virtually on March 23rd at 6:00 PM.

• School Board

  • Terri Michal, District 2

    • Not present.

  • Mary Boehm, District 3

    • Not present.

V. Announcements

• Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - March 17th

• Curbside Recycling Pickup - March 3rd

• Next Meeting - March 22nd

Meeting Minutes for January 2021

I Meeting Minutes - November 2020

• November 2020 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

  • Renee Tucker: Add discussed neighborhood was interested in donating and when Teri Michal requested funding later

II New Business

• Approve November 2020 minutes

  • Motion to approve minutes with correction was made by John Lanier and seconded by Camille Worthington.

  • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

III Reports

• Police - Jessica Burton, Lt. Nicosia

  • Reported various crimes within Crestwood Community

    • Slight increase in vehicle break-ins, reminder to lock vehicles and store away valuables

    • Recommended watching mailboxes carefully

      • If any theft report with USPS and BPD

  • Amy Ware

    • Asked about kidnapping that happened in Crestwood South

    • Lt. Nicosia could not confirm details but will report back

  • John Lanier

    • Complimented BPD with increased traffic and speed presence on Crestwood Blvd

• Fire - Capt. J. Kolodziej

  • Smoke detector installations, 205-595-5801

    • Will schedule appt to install smoke detectors

  • Amy Ware

    • Asked about the amount of detectors they can install for a single household. Capt said it depends on how many they have available at that time.

• Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

  • All BPL are open partially through the week and still doing curbside pickup/dropoff.

    • Hours are available on BPL website.

  • Almost all full time staff and most part time staff are back.

• CRR - Harold Houston

  • Neighborhood Elections

    • Postponed until further notice and no additional updates at this time

    • Liz Murray

      • Spoke with Alice

        • Aiming for March date

  • Provided trash & brush pickup schedule for February

  • Dog waste station

    • Bags installed

    • Liz Murray

      • Dog waste stations are already empty in some stations on the trail.

        • Harold reported this and the bags will be installed.

        • 919-2540 - Charles Brundige

  • Neighborhood Allocations

    • Non-capital projects: $17,690.24

    • Capital projects: $9,536.81

    • Total: $27,227.05

• Public Works - Arthur Wilder - 205-254-2061, arthur.wilder2@birminghamal.gov

  • 5 properties written up that will be mowed by Public Works

IV City Representatives

• City Council Representatives

  • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2 represented by India Bailey

    • Sent in request about more lighting in Crestwood Park

      • Still coordinating a time to meet with P&R and AP on cost and logistics

    • Sent requests about walking trail to be cleaned up regularly

    • Liz Murray asked about an update on Trinity Property development, but no updates at this time.

  • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

    • City Council is holding virtual meetings

    • Currently only things that can be considered at meetings are pandemic related expenditures and routine necessary city expenditures.

• School Board

  • Terri Michal, District 2

    • Little Library

      • All six are funded

      • Neighborhood can donate funds or books to LL

    • Staying virtual until end February. Will reevaluate and see if in person teaching can resume or will remain virtual.

    • Superintendent looking into starting school earlier in July to prevent summer slide

  • Mary Boehm, District 3

    • 1/26 D7 an election for empty board seat 

    • 1/26 board meeting work session to vote on proposed charter school

      • Housed at current location of southern museum of flight

    • Early College program featured on local news.

    • Ramsay basketball game basketball rim fell down

      • Inspecting facilities to make sure this doesn’t happen again

V Announcements

• Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - Feb. 3rd, Feb. 24th

• Curbside Recycling Pickup - Feb. 3rd

• Next Meeting - Feb. 22nd

Meeting Minutes for November 2020

November 23, 2020

President: Kayla MacNeil

Vice President: Elizabeth Murray

Secretary: Steven MacNeil

Meeting Minutes - October 2020

• Minutes posted on crestwoodsouth.com

• Motion to approve by John Lanier, seconded by Vincent Solfronk

  • Approved by unanimous consent

Reports

Officer Reports

• Dog waste station bags on Council agenda for November 17th meeting

• Current CSNA account balances:

  • $17690.24 for non-capital projects

  • $10,091.09 for capital projects

  • For a total of $27,781.33

Birmingham Police Department, Jessica Burton

• Crime rates down in the East Precinct

• Provided information for resources for domestic violence victims, the Safe Passage program, and the annual children's toy, coat, and shoe drive

• Police Department has suspects in the recent series of car break-ins at Crestwood Park

Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

• This and next week, the library will be providing curbside service only

Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

• Downed tree on the Crestwood trail has been removed

• Ann Wright asked about getting additional lighting at Crestwood Park

• Elizabeth Murray asked about trash on the trail not being emptied

• Councilor Williams will be giving $2500 of his discretionary budget to the Neighborhood Association

• Answering questions about returning furloughed city employees to work, Councilor Williams noted that there are statutory limitation preventing the city from returning certain employees to work.

Terri Michal, School Board, District 2

• The schools have continued to implement mixed in-person/remote learning

• A segmented approach have been taken to mitigate potential spread by rotating students through the school on specific days in blocs

• Michal is seeking funding for headsets for students learning remotely

• One Little Free Library has been funded and Michal will be looking for additional funding to fund the other five proposed Little Free Libraries

  • Neighborhood members indicated interest in helping funding for Little Libraries

• 20-day attendance count is down by approximately 1000 students, which could negatively affect state funding, but Board Member Boehm noted that the city may appeal to the state to hold the attendance numbers at last years levels due to the extenuating circumstances of the pandemic

Mary Boehm, School Board, District 3

• Congratulated Board member Michal on her Little Free Library initiative

• Woodlawn Darryl Brown was Alabama District 5 principal of the year

Announcements

• No meeting in December due to holidays

• Curbside Recycling Pick Up - December 2nd

• Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - December 16th

Meeting Minutes for October 2020

October 26, 2020

President: Kayla MacNeil

Vice President: Elizabeth Murray

Secretary: Steven MacNeil

Meeting Minutes - September 2020 Meeting

• Minutes posted on crestwoodsouth.com

• Motion to approve by Camille Worthington, seconded by Vincent Solfronk

• Approved by unanimous consent

Reports

Officer Reports

• Neighborhood Officer Elections - January 12, 2021

• Variance Request - 800 Montclair Rd. (Trinity Property)

Jessica Burton, Birmingham Police

• The Department has begun accepting applications for the "Safe Passage" program, providing safe routes for children walking to and from school.

  • For more information call 205-254-6900

Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

• Main library remains the only location open: Monday through Friday 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

• Possibility that city may sell parking decks to private seller to raise money

Citizens' Advisory Board - Elizabeth Murray

• Mayor's office gave a presentation about transformation plan of Smithfield neighborhood, attempting to obtain a choice neighborhood grant through HUD

• Jane Hiles asked the presentation provided information about pathways for residents displaced by the plan to return to the area after the redevelopment, which it didn't according to Mrs. Murray

Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2 (represented by India Bailey)

Valerie Abbott, Councilor, District 3 (represented by Dr. Darryl Lee)

• Budget & Finance committee considering Choice Neighborhood grant through HUD, Lee assured the neighborhood that residents of the Section 8 housing in the neighborhood will be given first right of refusal to move back into the neighborhood after redevelopment

• Councilor Abbott will be doing discretionary fund neighborhood allocations soon

Terri Michal, School Board, District 2

• City Schools scheduled to go to in-person teaching Nov. 9

Lashunda Scales, Jefferson County Commissioner District 1

• $9.1M for Birmingham City for COVID relief through the CARES Act

• Provided information about the impending general election, including information about in-person absentee voting

  • Scales gave assurance that all ballots would be counted despite concerns otherwise

Announcements

• Curbside Recycling Pick Up - November 4th

• Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - November 4th

• Next Meeting - November 23rd

Meeting Minutes for September 2020

CSNA September 2020 meeting 

September 28, 2020 

President: Kayla MacNeil 

Vice President: Elizabeth Murray 

Secretary: Steven MacNeil 

1. Meeting Minutes - August 2020 

   • Minutes posted on crestwoodsouth.com

   • Motion to approve by Ann Wright, seconded by Camille Worthington Approved by unanimous consent 

2. Meeting Minutes - September 2020 Special Meeting

   • Minutes posted on crestwoodsouth.com

   • Motion to approve by Ann Wright, seconded by Camille Worthington Approved by unanimous consent

3. New Business

   • Refill bags for Clairmont Walking Trail dog waste stations

     • Previously voted on incorrect amount

     • $92.38/per carton of 2000 bags

     • Need to allocate $554.28 for six waste stations on Clairmont Walking Trail

     • Motion to approve by Camille Worthington, seconded by Ann Wright

       • Approved by unanimous voice vote

   • Donation for Birmingham Landmarks, Inc.

     • Motion to donate $500 from the neighborhood association's non-capital projects funds to  support Birmingham Landmarks, Inc. and its Alabama and Lyric Theaters made by Steve Todd, seconded by Ann Wright

       • Motion passes by unanimous voice vote

4. Reports

   • Officer Reports

     • Holiday Lights: President MacNeil informed that the neighborhood will not be installing  holiday lights along Crestwood Boulevard

   • Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

     • Solfronk informed the neighborhood of the closing of the Eastwood Library location due to  budget shortfalls, as well as the consolidation of several other library locations across the  city and furloughing of many Library employees

   • CRR - Harold Houston

     • Houston provided the city recycling, bulk trash and brush pickup schedules

     • The Neighborhood Association officer election date is still to be determined and ought to  be determined by the City Council in the near future

5. City Representatives

   • Valerie Abbott, Councilor, District 3

     • Councilor Abbott further clarified the state of the city's budget shortfall, attributing the crisis  to the city budget's dependence on business taxes which have taken a serious hit from the  COVID-19 pandemic

   • Terri Michal, School Board, District 2

     • 20 day attendance count beginning with the start of the school year will determine funding  for the schools for the rest of the year

     • Devices and internet hotspots have been distributed to students, properly preparing them  for remote learning

6. Announcements

   • Curbside Recycling Pick Up - October 7th

   • Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - October 14th

   • Next Meeting - October 26th

Meeting Minutes for September 2020 Special Called Meeting

Crestwood South Neighborhood Association August 2020 Meeting

September 8, 2020

President: Kayla MacNeil
Vice President: Elizabeth Murray
Secretary: Steven MacNeil

1. June 2020 meeting minutes

   • President MacNeil read the June minutes

   • Minutes posted on crestwoodsouth.com

   • Motion to approve June minutes made by Lawrence Myers, seconded by John Lanier, approved by unanimous voice vote

2. Clairmont trail dog waste station bags

   • John Lanier makes a motion to approve allocating $100 for Clairmont trail dog waste station bags, seconded by Ann Wright, approved by unanimous voice vote

Meeting Minutes for August 2020

Crestwood South Neighborhood Association August 2020 Meeting

August 24, 2020

President: Kayla MacNeil
Vice President: Elizabeth Murray
Secretary: Steven MacNeil

1. Meeting Minutes - February 2020

   • Minutes posted on crestwoodsouth.com

   • Motion to approve by Elizabeth Murray, seconded by Vincent Solfronk

     • Approved by unanimous consent

2. Meeting Minutes - June 2020

   • Minutes posted on crestwoodsouth.com

   • Motion to postpone approval of June minutes until special meeting September 8 made by Elizabeth Murray, seconded by Camille Worthington

     • Approved by unanimous consent

3. Presentations

   • Leonette W. Slay - League of Women Voters of Greater Birmingham

     • Provided information on absentee voting in anticipation of the upcoming November 3, 2020 general election

   • Hunter Garrison & Thomas Yuill - Southern Area Framework Plan

     • Plan provides a profile of current demographic, market, land use and development trends

     • Plan will inventory of community facilities, parks and transportation infrastructure

     • Data is collected through various public outreach methods including: public meetings, stakeholder interviews, surveys, Nextdoor, etc.

     • Plan then outlines goals and recommends actions for near and long-term implementation

     • Asking for feedback from the community at https://www.imaginebham.com/
       southernarea.html

     • Councilor Valerie Abbott stressed the importance of community participation for the success not only the plan but by extension, the city itself

4. Reports

   • Officer Elections: Postponed until 2021

     • Requirements

       • Be a resident of the City of Birmingham who is at least eighteen (18) years of
         age

       • Has resided in the neighborhood for at least one hundred twenty (120) days prior to the Declaration of Candidacy deadline

       • Has attended at least four (4) of that neighborhood’s meetings during the previous twelve (12) months prior to the Declaration of Candidacy deadline

         • Harold Houston clarified that an exception was made to include all 12
           meetings since October 2019's CSNA meeting

       • Candidate declarations due September 14, 2020

   • Fire/Police

     • Jessica Burton from the BPD East Precinct reported that property and violent crimes have decreased in the East Precinct over the previous week, however there has been an uptick in firearms being stolen from vehicles

   • Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

     • Reported that Mayor Woodfin's proposed budget will furlough the entire city library staff and asked for community support for the libraries

     • In addition to furloughing employees for an indeterminate amount of time, the Eastwood branch is likely to be closed

     • The budget cuts will also cease digital services for library patrons such as ebook and other digital rentals

     • Amy Ware made a motion to send a letter in support of the Eastwood library and the city library staff to Mayor Woodfin's office, seconded by Rose Cook.

       • Approved by unanimous consent

     • In response to a question about the line item in the Mayor's proposed budget, Hunter Williams clarified that the library's budget was cut from $12.8M to $11.5M and that the specifics of the budget allocation are at discretion of the Library's
       Board.

   • CRR - Harold Houston

     • Provided the trash and brush schedule for the remainder of the year as well as the balance of the neighborhood's account

       • Projected balance of $27,781.00 going into Fiscal Year 2021

   • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

     • Fielded questions about the proposed budget:

     • Underlined the concerns about students not having access to a traditional learning environments due to the COVID pandemic

     • Noted that there has been some misinformation in regard to an increase in the BPD budget, clarifying that the additional funding is the salaries of existing city security guards that have been previously funded by their respective institutions

   • Terri Michal, School Board, District 2

     • Detailed efforts by the school board to provide computers, cellular Wi-Fi hotspots and other equipment to students to facilitate remote learning

     • City schools will begin the first nine weeks of the school year remotely before re-evaluating the status of the pandemic

     • Programs have been put in place to educate students and parents on how to use provided equipment and software for remote learning

     • Voiced concerns about possible negative impact of the pandemic on enrollment

     • Middle school sports have been cancelled but high school sports are not, however in-person attendance has been limited to mitigate spread of COVID

5. Announcements

   • Bulk trash & brush pickup: September 2 & 23

   • Recycling pickup: September 2

   • Special called meeting: September 8

   • Next monthly meeting: September 28 @ 6:30