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

  • 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 Agenda for November 2023

I. Present November 2023 Agenda

II. Read October 2023 Meeting Minutes

III. New Business

  • Approve November 2023 Agenda

  • Approve meeting minutes for October2023

VI. Reports

  • Officer Reports

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

  • Fire

  • Police

  • Public Works - Arthur Wilder

  • CRR - Harold Houston

  • CAB - Elizabeth Murray

VII. City Representatives

  • City Council Representatives

    • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

    • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

  • School Board

    • Neonta Williams, District 2

    • Mary Boehm, District 3

VIII. Announcements

  • Brush pickup dates - TBA

  • 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

  • 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 Agenda for October 2023

I. Present October 2023 Agenda

II. Read August 2023 Meeting Minutes

III. New Business

  • Approve October 2023 Agenda

  • Approve meeting minutes for August 2023

V. Presentations

VI. Reports

  • Officer Reports

  • Fire

  • Police

  • Public Works - Arthur Wilder

  • CRR - Harold Houston

  • CAB - Elizabeth Murray

VII. City Representatives

  • City Council Representatives

    • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

    • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

  • School Board

    • Neonta Williams, District 2

    • Mary Boehm, District 3

VIII. Announcements

  • Brush pickup dates

  • Recycling pickup dates

  • Next meeting

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

  • CRR - Harold Houston

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 Agenda for August 2023

I. Present August 2023 Agenda

II. Read July 2023 Meeting Minutes

III. New Business

  • Approve August 2023 Agenda

  • Approve meeting minutes for July 2023

  • Dog waste station bag refills for Clairmont Walking Trail

    • $83.47 per carton of 2000 bags

    • Need 6 cartons to refill all stations on the walking trail = $500.82

  • Variance Request - ZBA2023-00026

    • 6 foot fence at corner of Crestwood Blvd and 57th St S

V. Presentations

  • Marybeth Nicodemus- Crestwood Beautification

VI. Reports

  • Officer Reports

    • No CSNA meeting in September.

  • Fire

  • Police

  • Public Works - Arthur Wilder

  • CRR - Harold Houston

  • CAB - Elizabeth Murray

VII. City Representatives

  • City Council Representatives

    • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

    • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

  • School Board

    • Neonta Williams, District 2

    • Mary Boehm, District 3

VIII. Announcements

  • Brush pickup dates - TBA

  • 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 Agenda for July 2023

I. Present July 2023 Agenda

II. Read June 2023 Meeting Minutes

III. New Business

  • Approve July 2023 Agenda

  • Approve June 2023 meeting minutes

IV. Presentations

  • Emily Thayer, Outreach Coordinator - Birthwell Partners

V. Reports

  • Officer Reports

    • Variance Request - ZBA2023­00026

    • Fight Club Fitness Women’s Self-Defense Classes

      1. August 6th, 13th, 20th, & 27th @ 4:30-6:30pm

      2. $100 per person for the entire series

  • Fire

  • Police

  • Public Works - Arthur Wilder

  • CRR - Harold Houston

  • CAB - Elizabeth Murray

VI. City Representatives

  • City Council Representatives

    • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

    • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

  • School Board

    • Neonta Williams, District 2

    • Mary Boehm, District 3

VII. Announcements

  • Brush pickup dates - TBA

  • Recycling pickup dates - August 2nd & 16th

  • Next meeting - August 28th

Meeting Agenda for June 2023

I. Present June 2023 Agenda

II. Read May 2023 Meeting Minutes

III. New Business

  • Approve June 2023 Agenda

  • Read and approve May 2023 meeting minutes

IV. Presentations

  • Levite Jewish Community Center - Welcome & Introduction

V. Reports

  • Officer Reports

  • Fire

  • Police

  • Public Works - Arthur Wilder

  • CRR - Harold Houston

  • CAB - Elizabeth Murray

VI. City Representatives

  • City Council Representatives

    • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

    • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

  • School Board

    • Neonta Williams, District 2

    • Mary Boehm, District 3

VII. Announcements

  • Brush pickup dates - TBA

  • Recycling pickup dates - July 5th

  • Next meeting - July 24th

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

  • 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 Agenda for May 2023

I. Present May 2023 Agenda

II. Read April 2023 Meeting Minutes

III. New Business

IV. Presentations

  • Jana White, Regional Planning Commission - Improving Transportation Services

V. Reports

  • Officer Reports

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

    • Trash cart website has been updated: https://www.birminghamal.gov/pickup

  • Fire

  • Police

  • Public Works - Arthur Wilder

  • CRR - Harold Houston

  • CAB - Elizabeth Murray

VI. City Representatives

  • City Council Representatives

    • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

    • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

  • School Board

    • Neonta Williams, District 2

    • Mary Boehm, District 3

VII. Announcements

  • Brush pickup dates - TBA

  • Recycling pickup dates - June 7th

  • Next meeting - June 26th

Meeting Agenda for April 2023

Crestwood South Neighborhood Association - info@crestwoodsouth.com

  1. Read & Approve Previous Meeting Minutes - March 2023

  2. Presentations

  3. Reports

    • Officer Report

      • Recycling pickup only on first Wednesday of the month.

      • Updates to CrestwoodSouth.com

        • New Completed Projects page

        • Updated FAQs

    • Fire

    • Police

    • Public Works - Arthur Wilder

    • CRR - Harold Houston

  4. City Representatives

    • City Council Representatives

      • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

      • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

    • School Board

      • Neonta Williams, District 2

      • Mary Boehm, District 3

  5. Announcements

    • Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - TBA

    • Recycling pickup dates - May 3rd

    • Next meeting - May 22nd

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

Meeting Minutes for March 2023

Crestwood South Neighborhood Association - info@crestwoodsouth.com

Read Meeting Minutes - February 2023

  • February 2023 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

New Business

    • Approve meeting minutes for February 2023.

      • Motion to approve minutes was made by Renee Tucker and seconded by Mike Adams.

        • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

    • Avondale Elementary School Wish List

      • At the February CSNA monthly meeting, Birmingham City School Board Representative Mary Boehm presented the CSNA with a wishlist of programs for Avondale Elementary.

        • Ms. Boehm requested the neighborhood consider fully funding or partially funding one or more of these programs with neighborhood allocations.

          • Children’s Theater Drama $3,000/semester

          • Martial Arts/Karate Classes $3,000/year

      • Various neighbors expressed their support or opposition for utilizing neighborhood funds towards Avondale Elementary’s after-school programming.

        • Doug Yarbrough asked how much the neighborhood receives per year from the City.

          • CSNA currently receives $2,000 per year from the City’s budget and various amounts are granted by our City Councilor’s discretionary funds.

        • Jerry Tucker asked what recurring or expected expenses the neighborhood currently incurs.

          • CSNA does not have any current recurring expenses nor planned projects at this time.

        • Bill Meneese stated that the Forest Park/South Avondale Neighborhood Association should be responsible for funding after school programs because Avondale Elementary is located within the boundaries of their neighborhood. He also stated that he did not believe funding after school programs for Avondale Elementary provided a tangible benefit to the Crestwood South Neighborhood.

          • Elizabeth Murray countered that while Avondale Elementary is located in the geographical bounds of Forest Park/South Avondale, students who live within Crestwood South are zoned for Avondale Elementary and therefore supporting their students does benefit our neighborhood.

          • Doug Yarborough additionally countered that from his perspective as a realtor he finds that many families with children move out of the neighborhood when they reach the age to go to school and that showing support to Avondale Elementary would be important for retaining residents.

        • Luke Hanson asked what types of projects the neighborhood association can fund and what type of projects have been funded in the past.

          • Birmingham neighborhood associations can use their funds towards projects that benefit their community and are usually initiatives that are not covered by what is set in the City's budget, but there are some limitations.

          • In the past there have been projects that CSNA has partnered with the City to assist in funding - for example, the cost of purchasing and installing speed cushions on Cresthill road was split 50/50 with the City. Other projects have been fully funded through CSNA - like the Crestwood street sign toppers, the tennis backboard at Crestwood Park or dog waste stations and lighting along Clairmont Walking Trail.

          • The neighborhood can also use its funding for non-tangible initiatives like purchasing a table at the Martin Luther King Jr. breakfast or sending delegates to the NUSA conference.

          • The CSNA has also used their funds to support schools in the past including providing funding for STEM books for the Avondale Elementary library and funding for transportation to a field trip for Putnam students. 

      • Motion to allocate $1000.00 of CSNA funding for any after school programming at Avondale Elementary was made by Mike Adams and seconded by Bill Meneese.

        • Yays: 3 

        • Nays: 6

        • Motion was not approved.

      • Motion to allocate $2000.00 of CSNA funding for any after school programming at Avondale Elementary was made by Doug Yarborogh and seconded by Renee Tucker.

        • Yays: 7

        • Nays: 2

        • Motion was approved.

Reports

    • Officer Reports

    • Fire

      • Not present.

    • Police

      • Not present.

    • Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

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

    • Public Works - Arthur Wilder

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

    • CRR - Harold Houston

      • Mr. Houston rode through the neighborhood and noted a few issues to report to the City, including the downed power lines along Crestwood Blvd.

      • Bill Meneese reported limbs along the Clairmont Walking Trail and that some neighbors are illegally dumping yard debris along the trail.

        • Mr. Houston noted neighbors can report issues by sending them directly to him, calling 311 or through the SeeClickFix app.

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

    • CAB - Elizabeth Murray

      • City Council President Wardine reported that the next round of new City garbage cans will be dispersed to citizens. 

        • India Bailey followed up that the cans are being dispersed according to trash routes. 

        • The Mayor’s office said that citizens can expect the last disbursement of cans to be completed by the end of the year.

        • Request for Garbage Set-Out Service Form

          • The City provides a special service for those who are handicapped or disabled and who do not have another resident who is capable of carrying out containers of household garbage to the usual pickup point for City workers.

      • 2024 Budget discussions have begun between the City Council and the Mayor’s office.

      • 98 neighborhood delegates are being sent to this year’s NUSA conference.

City Representatives

    • City Council Representatives

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

        • Ms. Bailey reported that the crosswalk light at Crestwood Blvd / 56th Street intersection has been fixed.

        • Budget hearings took place last week for the 2024 fiscal year.

      • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

        • Not present.

    • School Board

      • Neonta Williams, District 2

        • Not present.

      • Mary Boehm, District 3

        • This week is Spring Break for Birmingham City Schools.

        • BCS had an accreditation review conducted by Cognia, receiving the highest score in BCS history.

        • BCS Board will be reviewing a proposed calendar that includes additional days for time in the classroom.

        • August 7th is the scheduled start date for 2023/2024 school year.

Announcements

    • Brush pickup dates - TBA

    • Recycling pickup dates - April 5th & 19th

    • Next meeting - April 24th

Meeting Agenda for February 2023

Crestwood South Neighborhood Association - info@crestwoodsouth.com

  1. Read & Approve Previous Meeting Minutes - January 2023

  2. Reports

    • Officer Report

      • Avondale Elementary School Wish List

        • Plan to vote to allocate funds to fulfill a wishlist item during our neighborhood meeting on March 27, 2023.

      • Request for Garbage Set-Out Service Form

      • Crestwood Blvd Clean Up Day - Saturday, March 19th, 9-11am

      • Women’s self-defense seminar series - Fight Club Fitness

    • Fire

    • Police

    • Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

    • Public Works - Arthur Wilder

    • CRR - Harold Houston

  3. City Representatives

    • City Council Representatives

      • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

      • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

    • School Board

      • Neonta Williams, District 2

      • Mary Boehm, District 3

  4. Announcements

    • Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - March 10, 2023

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

    • Next Meeting - March 27th

Meeting Minutes for February 2023

Crestwood South Neighborhood Association - info@crestwoodsouth.com

Read Meeting Minutes - January 2023

  • January 2023 meeting minutes were read to meeting attendees.

New Business

    • Approve meeting minutes for January 2023

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

        • Motion was approved by unanimous consent.

Reports

    • Officer Reports

      • Avondale Elementary School Wish List

        • Birmingham City School Board Representative Mary Boehm has presented the CSNA with a wishlist of programs for Avondale Elementary.

          • Ms. Boehm has requested the neighborhood consider funding one or more of these programs with neighborhood allocations.

            • Children’s Theater Drama $3,000/semester

            • Self-Defense/Karate Classes $3,000/year

        • CSNA will conduct a vote during the March 27, 2023 meeting on whether to allocate funds for fulfilling Avondale Elementary wishlist items.

          • Neighborhood Association Account Balance

            • Non-capital balance: $6,952.05

            • Capital balance: $7,213.64

        • President Worthington suggested allocating $3,000 of CSNA funding and promoting donations through the Crestwood South Inc. 501c3 earmarked for Avondale Elementary.

      • Request for Garbage Set-Out Service Form

        • The City provides a special service for those who are handicapped or disabled and who do not have another resident who is capable of carrying out containers of household garbage to the usual pickup point for City workers.

      • Crestwood Blvd Clean Up Day - Saturday, March 18th, 9-11am

      • Women’s self-defense seminar series - Fight Club Fitness

        • $30 for 3 classes (First 3 Saturdays in March): covering maneuvers such as how to escape a choke hold, a hair grab, bear grabs, and weapons defenses.

        • $15 for 1 additional class on March 25th: focused firearm training.

    • Fire

      • Not present.

    • Police

      • Not present.

    • Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

      • Not present.

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

    • 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.

City Representatives

    • City Council Representatives

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

        • Birmingham Amphitheater

          • Birmingham City Council approved the city’s share of funding for a planned new $50 million, 9,000-seat amphitheater at the site of the demolished former Carraway hospital.

          • Anticipated finish date is Spring 2025.

        • Code enforcement issue in the 5800 block of Crestwood Boulevard.

          • Ms. Bailey reported the resident has been fined and sent a request to remove the offending code violation.

        • Cresthill Road speed bumps.

          • Ms. Bailey reported they have relayed complaints to the Department of Transportation and are still awaiting a response.

        • Luke Hanson asked about issues at the Crestwood Blvd / 58th Street crosswalk.

          • Ms. Bailey noted the issues and will report to the Mayor’s office.

        • Mike Adams reported a sinkhole in the road near the 4400-4500 block of Clairmont Ave.

          • Ms. Bailey noted that if the sinkhole was caused by a sewer drain, it would be under the purview of Birmingham Water Works but would report the issue to contacts at BWWB.

      • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

        • Not present.

    • School Board

  • Neonta Williams, District 2

    • Not present.

  • Mary Boehm, District 3

    • Intersession Period

      • Birmingham City School students use an intersession period to catch up on school work.

      • Taking place March 20-24, 2023 8 AM - 1 PM with Spring Break to follow.

    • Ramsay High School Boys Basketball

      • RHS Varsity Boys basketball team will be competing in the 5A Boys Championship March 1, 2023 at the BJCC.

    • Magnet school applications are now open.

    • Avondale First Class Pre-K

      • Alabama's nationally recognized Voluntary First Class Pre-K Program is preparing for another school year.

      • Families can submit pre-registration applications online until April 1, 2023. There is no registration fee for this program.

    • 2023 Alabama Legislature

      • Session will begin March 7, 2023.

      • State leaders are considering more support for math education.

        • A multi-component bill aims to improve public schools’ kindergarten through fifth grade math education with a goal of getting students more proficient in mathematics.

Announcements

    • Upcoming Bulk Trash & Brush Pickup - March 10, 2023

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

    • Next Meeting - March 27th

Meeting Minutes for January 2023

Crestwood South Neighborhood Association - info@crestwoodsouth.com

Presentations

  • Storm Spencer - Fight Club Fitness

    • New studio style gym in the Crestwood Festival Center offering kickboxing fitness, belt-oriented Krav Maga, and self-defense seminars for ages 5 through adult.

    • You can read more about their various offerings on their  website.

  • Fair Housing Center of Northern Alabama (FHCNA) - Elizabeth Murray

    • Organization that enforces the Fair Housing Act of 1968.

    • If you or someone you know may have experienced housing discrimination, call (205) 324-0111 or email contact@fhcna.com.

Reports

    • Officer Reports

      • Southern Area Framework Plan Draft Presentation

        • Tuesday, January 24th 5:30-6:30pm at Avondale Library

      • Crestwood Blvd Clean Up Day

        • Saturday, March 19th 9-11am

        • Meet at the Village East Shopping Center (Corner of Crestwood Blvd and Cresthill Rd)

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

      • Birmingham Parks & Rec presents Fitness at the Villa from January to March

        • Free weekly series at Avondale Villa (4220 Woodvale Road)

        • Tuesdays @ 6pm - Kickbox Sculpt

        • Wednesdays @ 6pm - Xtreme Hip-Hop

        • Thursdays @ 5:30pm - Line Dance

      • Free Electronics Drop-Off & Paper Shredding

        • January 28th, 9-11:30am at the Birmingham Zoo

    • Fire

      • Not present.

    • Police

      • Not present.

    • Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

      • Not present.

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

    • Public Works - Arthur Wilder

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

    • CRR - Harold Houston

      • Not present.

      • Neighborhood Association Account Balance

        • Non-capital balance: $6,952.05

        • Capital balance: $7,213.64

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

    • CAB - Elizabeth Murray

      • CAB did not meet in December, so no updates at this time.

City Representatives

    • City Council Representatives

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

        • Council approved Safe Sleep program.

          • The goal is to provide safe sleeping alternatives for the city's chronically unhoused residents through the purchase of micro-shelters.

        • John Davis asked about updates on the Amphitheater funding on former Carraway site.

          • Ms. Bailey noted that the council will be voting in the near future.

        • Doug Yarborough noted a potential code enforcement issue in the 5800 block of Crestwood Boulevard.

          • Ms. Bailey reported that Councilor Williams’ office is aware of the code violation and is investigating.

        • President Worthington requested an update on the complaints regarding the Cresthill Road speed bumps.

          • Ms. Bailey reported they have relayed complaints to the Department of Transportation.

      • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

        • Not present.

    • School Board

  • Neonta Williams, District 2

    • Not present.

  • Mary Boehm, District 3

    • Reported that Neonta Williams has been elected as the new School Board president.

    • Birmingham City Council has approved $1 million dollars for mental health focused programming for Birmingham City Schools.

    • $7 million dollars from the City has been set aside for a pre-K center in the Roebuck area.

    • Mrs. Boehm will share a list of programs that the CSNA can potentially help fund through the neighborhood association’s account.

Announcements

    • Brush pickup dates - January 23rd

    • Recycling pickup dates - February 1st, February 15th

    • Next meeting - February 27th

Meeting Agenda for January 2023

Crestwood South Neighborhood Association - info@crestwoodsouth.com

  1. Read & Approve Previous Meeting Minutes - November 2022

  2. Reports

    • Officer Report

      • Southern Area Framework Plan Draft Presentation

        • Tuesday, January 24th 5:30-6:30pm at Avondale Library

      • Crestwood Blvd Clean Up Day

        • Saturday, March 19th 9-11am

      • Birmingham Parks & Rec presents Fitness at the Villa from January to March

        • Free weekly series at Avondale Villa (4220 Woodvale Road)

        • Tuesdays @ 6pm- Kickbox Sculpt

        • Wednesdays @ 6pm- Xtreme Hip-Hop

        • Thursdays @ 5:30pm- Line Dance

      • Free Electronics Drop-Off & Paper Shredding

        • January 28th, 9-11:30am at the Birmingham Zoo

    • Fire

    • Police

    • Birmingham Library - Vincent Solfronk

    • Public Works - Arthur Wilder

    • CRR - Harold Houston

    • CAB - Elizabeth Murray

  3. City Representatives

    • City Council Representatives

      • Hunter Williams, Councilor, District 2

      • Valerie A. Abbott, Councilor, District 3

    • School Board

      • Neonta Williams, District 2

      • Mary Boehm, District 3

  4. Announcements

    • Brush pickup dates - January 23rd

    • Recycling pickup dates - February 1st, February 15th

    • Next meeting - February 27th