South Avondale

Forest Park / South Avondale (February Newsletter)

FOREST PARK / SOUTH AVONDALE
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2024, 6:30 p.m.
AVONDALE LIBRARY

  • 1.  Monthly Report from BPD South Precinct.

  • 2.  Monthly Report from Birmingham Fire Department.

  • 3.  Approval of minutes from January Meeting.

  • 4.  Variance to utilize the existing concrete footer placement for a new impermeant garage structure. 1ft rear and side yard setback for a new, accessory garage AND a variance for an accessory structure that takes up more than 30% of the required rear yard).

  • 5.  Funding Request for 2024 edition of Movies in the Park (Keri Lane / Elizabeth Lasseter).

  • 6.  Community Credit Class Information, Brian Fisher.

  • 7.  Report from Friends of Avondale Park, John Forney.

  • 8.  Report from Birmingham Public Schools Mary Boehm.

  • 9.  Report from District 3 City Councilor, Valerie Abbott.

  • 10.  Report from District 5 City Councilor, Darrell O'Quinn.


Southside Ball registration is still open for the Spring Season at Avondale Park!
Evaluations are this Saturday February 3 so register soon!
Just click the link: https://www.southsideball.com

Forest Park / South Avondale  
Brush and Bulk Trash Pick Up date.
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 12
https://www.birminghamal.gov/bulktrash 

Forest Park South Avondale Neighborhood Association
Tuesday, January 2, 2024
Avondale Library
Meeting Minutes

The meeting was called to order at 6:30pm by President, Jeff McGee. 

John Forney, President of FOAP Board, updates neighbors about happenings at Avondale Park. No meeting was held during December. However, monthly clean-up meet-ups continue in the Park the 2nd Saturday of every month, 8-10am. Bring your tools and pitch in. Next project to tackle is cleaning up the trails. The FOAP is seeking to promote use of the Park and Villa, and is working to gather data to better understand who is renting the Villa and for what purposes. Their mission is to ensure the Park is enjoyed by everyone, and remains a clean, safe gathering space.

Destiny Askew, Director of Volunteer Engagement at STAIR, informed neighbors that STAIR is currently recruiting Spring tutors. STAIR is a tutoring program serving 10 BCS, including Avondale Elementary. January 23rd is the start of the next session. Tutors work with 1st and 2nd graders, as well as 4th graders at Avondale Elementary. Information is available at STAIRBirmingham.org Neighbor Lee Walthall shared that he is a STAIR tutor and “can think of nothing more rewarding.”

Jay Smith, President of Common Ground Forest Park, a new non-profit created to maintain Triangle Park, reported to neighbors on the successful kick-off event in November. Neighbors have been surveyed to determine the ways in which they would like to see the Park used and improved, and McNally Land Design Architects are currently developing proposals and cost estimates for different tiers of project improvements. Jay suggested neighbors google Common Ground Forest Park, hit the donate button, hit the Get Involved button, go to the Facebook page and like it, go to the Instagram page and follow it, and be involved with this important effort. A neighbor asked about fees to rent Triangle Park, and was told that people should contact the Parks and Rec Department to reserve the Park.

Jay Smith also spoke to neighbors about Southside Ball. The annual fundraiser Baseball and Brews is being held Saturday, January 27th, at Cahaba Brewery. Everyone is welcome! The Spring season is here, and registration is open. Scholarships are available, new players are welcome. www.southsideball.com

Mary Boehm, Birmingham Board of Education Representative, spoke to neighbors about Birmingham City Schools. She thanked STAIR for being present, and shared that she tutors at Avondale Elementary and it is the highlight of her week, stating “Connection with a child is invaluable.” BCS received 2 applications for new Charter Schools in November, Iron City Business Academy and InnovaEDU. The BB of Ed will review and then hold public meetings. If they choose not to approve, the applicants can appeal to the State. In response to a question, Ms Boehm stated that the BB of Ed has never approved an application for a charter school. There are a total of 11 charter schools in the State at present. Discussion followed and Ms Boehm made the point that Charter Schools have not been doing as good a job educating these kids as they had promised, mainly because it is a lot harder to accomplish than folks like to claim. Mayor Woodfin recently spoke about his disappointment in the School report cards released in December. Overall the District received a C or 72, one point lower than last year. Ms Boehm provided a breakdown of the 43 schools scores, and noted that Avondale received a C. There are more than 700 kids in 2nd grade right now that may potentially be held back from 3rd grade. STAIR is helping us address this crisis. The BCS strategic planning process would really benefit from neighbor attendance and participation. While these scores are very discouraging, the are lots of wonderful things happening in BCS kids lives. Ramsay’s Football team had an outstanding season. The 84th All-City Christmas Music Festival was an amazing highlight of the immense talent of kids across our city. And talented STEAM scholars from Bush Hills created an app for the 16th St Baptist Church, winning an innovation competition. So grades do not fully reflect the value of these wonderful kids. There is a plan to tackle the kudzu at Avondale this Spring. In addition, the City Operations team is going to help move the playground equipment and upgrade the site and tennis courts this Spring as well. In response to a question, Ms Boehm stated that chronic absenteeism is a huge problem for BCS. The BB of Ed hired a non-profit to partner with to help us do home visits, and the DA’s office is also partnering with them. Its getting better but still a lot needs to be done. In response to another question, Ms Boehm stated that she has not seen data that relates the identity of a perpetrator’s school to a crime committed. Discussion followed. Jeff McGee shared his knowledge and experience from Family Court as it related to the correlation of truancy and juvenile crime. The importance of keeping kids in school was stressed by discussion participants.

Corporal Whatley of the Birmingham Police Department was present to respond to neighbors’ concerns about crime. In response to a question, Cpl Whatley stated that they do not know how many shots were fired during NYE but the shot spotter is accurate. The retention numbers for new officers continues to remain low. A burglary 3rd degree perpetrator was arrested in the neighborhood and is in the court process now. In response to a question, Cpl Whatley said 48 hour holds will be taken to City Jail. All other arrests will go to County Jail. Another neighbor asked the officer about policing exhibition driving violations. Staff shortages lead to really large patrol areas, old patrol cars suffer mechanical issues, and the officers are just not able to be everywhere as needed. Cpl Whatley supported the idea of having the parcel delivery service send notifications or deliver to a secure holding location to avoid porch pirate opportunities.

District 5 City Councilor Darrel O’Quinn, newly elected President of the Council, spoke to neighbors. He brought packets of “News You Can Use” to distribute to those present. Councilor pointed to earlier discussions of school truancy. We have a requirement that school buses will not pick up a child within 2 miles of a school. But 2 miles is a long way to ask a child to walk through some of these neighborhoods. He sees transportation as a barrier we can address, and is speaking with HABD to see if we can’t get some assistance. Another issue Councilor is working on is animal control. The number of vicious dog attacks as well as the huge number of 911 and 311 calls related to animals has led him to propose a spay/neuter requirement, in the form of pet licensing. The Code Enforcement in the City is an ongoing problem. The staff shortages mean that there are no officers to serve summons to appear in court for code violations. The Council is working on getting officers assigned to this duty. The cooperation between City and County jail is currently in the News and the Councilor stated that this is mostly politics at play.  He sees cooperation amongst the greater municipalities as the most viable option, freeing up funds for infrastructure and education. In response to a question, Councilor O’Quinn stated that the jail agreement should not result in layoffs. Staff shortages mean that officers in the jail could easily be reassigned to street patrol or other vacant roles. Discussion returned to the unlicensed pet issue, and the health and safety concerns of irresponsible pet ownership.

District 3 City Councilor Valerie Abbott expressed excitement about the potential for Code enforcement. The City Council is attempting to hold the Mayor to getting the positions of inspectors filled. Uniform garbage carts are continuing to be a problem for many in her district. Councilor Abbott reminded folks they may get a waiver form from the 311 call center if you cannot physically pull your cart up and down to the street.

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 7:40pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Elizabeth Crawford
Secretary   

Tuesday, January 2, 2024
Avondale Library


Helpful links and Information about the upcoming 2024 Elections

The Secretary of State website: Alabama Votes. Here you can update your voter information and/or register to vote. The site also has information on upcoming elections, absentee voting and much more.
The Jefferson County Board of Registrars Here you will find voting locations, maps of congressional districts, contact information for Absentee Voting and more.

Dates to remember:
Primary Election – March 5, 2024
Feb. 16 – Last day to hand-deliver voter registration forms
Feb. 17 – Last day to postmark voter registration forms
Feb. 19 – Last day to register to vote electronically
Feb. 27 – Last day to apply for an absentee ballot to mail
Feb. 29 – Last day to apply for an absentee ballot in person
March 4 – Last day to hand-deliver absentee ballot
March 5 – Absentee ballots returned by mail must be received by Noon.

Primary Runoff Election (If necessary) – April 16, 2024
April 1 – Voter registration deadline
April 9 – Last day to apply for an absentee ballot by mail
April 11 – Last day to apply for an absentee ballot in person
April 15 – Last day to hand-deliver absentee ballot
April 16 – Absentee ballots returned by mail must be received by Noon*


Jefferson County EMA and City of Birmingham Alert System

Get alerted about emergencies and other important community news by signing up for our Emergency Alert Program. This system enables us to provide you with critical information quickly in a variety of situations, such as severe weather, unexpected road closures, missing persons and evacuations of buildings or neighborhoods. Create an account to get alerts here.
 


Recycling Pickups - Usually 1st and 3rd Weds.

(unless holidays change the schedule)


(Recyclables can be also be dropped off at Birmingham Recycling and Recovery

M-F 7am-4pm* - 9 41st St. S., 35222 (Avondale).)
Please do NOT use plastic bags. 

What Can Be Recycled:

Paper, cardboard, newspaper, magazines, and broken down cardboard boxes (if using a box for your "bin" you do not need to break it down)

Aluminum, steel, or tin cans

#1 and #2 Plastics only. 

DO NOT INCLUDE THESE: trash, phone books, styrofoam, glass, plastic packing materials/wrappers or plastic bags or anything with food residue. (Rinse all items and discard greasy parts of pizza boxes (for example.)

When in doubt, throw it out! 

*We have unfortunately confirmed that if the truck comes by on other days, they will pick up materials and take them to the dump.

Forest Park / South Avondale (April Newsletter)

 FOREST PARK / SOUTH AVONDALE


 TUESDAY, April 4, 2023, 6:30 p.m.
Avondale Library

Agenda:
1.  Report from South Precinct
2.  Parking Variance Parking Modification to allow for 8 off-street parking spaces instead of the required 43 parking spaces for a restaurant.  Old Melt location, 4105 4th Av. S.

3.  Setback Variance to allow for a covered porch addition to be set back 19.9 feet from the front yard property line instead of the required 25 feet front yard setback. (3400 Altamont Way)
4.  Update on Neighborhood Meet and Greet, Pam Murray.
5.  Update on 4167 & 4173 Cliff Road Nuisances, Shannon Blankenship
6.  Update on efforts to create a sidewalk along Altamont Park, Maury Shevin.
7.  Report from Friends of Avondale Park, April Merritt.
8.  Report from Birmingham Board of Education, Mary Boehm
9.  Report from District 3 City Councilor, Valerie Abbott
10.  Report from District 5 City Councilor, Darrel O'Quinn 


Brush and Bulk Trash Pick Up Date: 
Forest Park / South Avondale  
THURSDAY, APRIL 12
https://www.birminghamal.gov/bulktrash 


The City of Birmingham has entered phase 2 delivery of the new uniform garbage carts. More than 20,000 carts will be delivered to residences over the next few weeks.
 
The carts will be distributed equally among the four waste management districts (north, south, east, west). If you have received a cart in the phase 2 delivery, please refer to the information packet included with the cart. You will receive additional information in the mail soon. Read more about the new system and delivery plans at www.birminghamal.gov/pickup.


Please remember to pick up after your pet and avoid disposing of their waste in your neighbor's trash can.  Also be mindful of your pet peeing or pooping on your neighbor's lawn, shrubbery and ground cover.  Pet urine is toxic to many of our plants.


Forest Park and Avondale Park Historic Districts
Design Review Information

When applying for a building/construction permit, the City's database will alert the clerk if your address is within one of the City's historic districts.  If you reside in one of the City's historic districts, construction / renovation projects will likely be subject to Birmingham's design review process. Forest Park / South Avondale Neighborhood has two historically designated districts (Forest Park and Avondale Park).  These districts are subject to design review when new construction, renovation, repair, and remodel projects affecting the exterior of any structure located within the historic district boundaries.  Research has show that property values are greater for homes located in historic districts, especially districts that are subject to design review.

When City permitting personnel determines that your proposed renovation/construction project is within a historic district, you will be referred to City's  design review personnel for a determination if the repairs, construction etc. are subject to review by the City and local design review committees.  

If your case is subject to design review, you will be given a date to present your case to the City's design review committee.  You will also be referred to your local "Neighborhood" committee for review.  The local committee will review your case prior to the date set for review by the City's committee and make recommendations to the City Design Review Board.

Local design review committees are made up of historic district residents with the requirement that at least 2 members of the committee are architects. Local committees make findings and recommendations that are submitted to the City committee.  The findings and recommendations of the local committee are binding and can only be overturned by a two thirds majority of the City's design review committee. 

As a word of caution, if you think your residence is located within one of Forest Park / South Avondale Neighborhood's Historic Districts, DO NOT purchase materials or commence exterior renovations/construction prior to a determination whether your project is subject to the City's design review process.  If  your materials / design are not approved during the process, you may not be able to recoup the expense for materials and / or construction labor.
 

 Forest Park Design Review Committee Interim Chairman
Jeff McGee - jeffmcgeefpsa@aol.com  (205) 999 3185

Avondale Park Design Review Committee Chairman
Jeff McGee - jeffmcgeefpsa@aol.com  (205) 999 3185


Avondale Park Historic District Map
https://gisweb.birminghamal.gov/StandardMaps/Historic/AvondalePark.pdf

Forest Park / South Avondale (November Newsletter)

Forest Park / South Avondale

Tuesday, November 1, 2022, 6:30 p.m.

AVONDALE LIBRARY

November agenda items include:

  1. Monthly Report from the South Precinct.

  2. Monthly Report from Friends of Avondale Park, (April Merritt).

  3. Monthly Report from District 3 Board of Education Representative (Mary Boehm)

  4. Monthly Report from District 5 Councilor, (Darrel O'Quinn)

  5. Monthly Report from District 3 Councilor, (Valerie Abbott)


Brush and Trash Pick Up dates.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18

https://www.birminghamal.gov/bulktrash

Missed Pick-up - Dial 311

Report Illegal Dumping - Dial 311

New Miss Fancy statue awaiting final permits for installation in Avondale Park

BYGABBY GERVAIS

After plenty of hard work bringing the bronze, 15-foot Miss Fancy to life, she’s almost ready for her official installation. We caught up with Nelson Grice, the artist behind the new Miss Fancy statue, to find out when we’ll get to see her in all her glory. Keep reading for sneak peek photos and details.
Making Miss Fancy
Bham Now has been keeping up with Miss Fancy’s progress every step of the way and we can’t wait to see the final results. When we last caught up with Nelson, he was in the midst of the final bronze pour for the long-anticipated statue. Since then, he’s been hard at work assembling Miss Fancy’s 146 individual pieces.
“Ted Metz and Hank Simpson were a huge help in assembling the big girl. We completed assembling the pieces at the end of July. Then I welded up all of the seams and by the end of this week, she will be completely finished.”
Nelson Grice, Artist
Based on the real-life Miss Fancy, a beloved elephant who roamed Avondale Park in the early 1900s, this 15-foot statue will be displayed front and center in Avondale Park.
How she came to be
The story of bringing a new Miss Fancy statue to Avondale Park traces back to one of the neighborhood’s most beloved civic leaders, Ron Council. When a smaller Miss Fancy statue in the park was damaged and later disappeared, Ron made it his mission to bring her back to her rightful place.
Tragically, he passed away before he could see Miss Fancy return. So, his wife Martha Council made it her mission to continue his legacy and raise money for a brand new Miss Fancy statue. Grice took on the project and has been bringing the beloved elephant to life ever since.
What are the next steps?
Wondering what exactly needs to happen before we can see Miss Fancy at the entrance of Avondale Park? Nelson filled us in on the next steps.
“Right now we are waiting on permits from the parts board in Birmingham. Once we get our permit, we will begin to excavate the land and pour the footer for the sculpture. Once we pour the footer, we will attach the plates and posts and weld her onto those plates. Then, we will build the pedestal box and pour the final layer of concrete. After that, we will place the stones around the pedestal to match the surrounding columns at the entrance of Avondale Park.”
Nelson Grice, Artist
Keep an eye out for the big reveal
The unveiling of Miss Fancy is scheduled for December 10 at 11:00 a.m

LINK TO BIRMINGHAM NOW STORY With more pics,
https://bhamnow.com/2022/10/24/now-the-news-50m-amphitheater-proposed-for-north-birmingham-avondale-parks-miss-fancy-statue-update-more/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=now-the-news-50m-amphitheater-proposed-for-north-birmingham-avondale-parks-miss-fancy-statue-update-more


CHRISTMAS VILLAGE 2022
DEADLINE TO DONATE GIFTS: NOVEMBER 28

The Samaritan Place Market: A Christmas Village is a shopping experience for invited guests to shop for the children in their home. Avondale Samaritan Place will be transformed into a Christmas market where local community members will be hired to work the shop and new gifts will be available at greatly reduced prices.

Here’s how you can help: You can make a child’s Christmas possible through whichever of the following is most convenient for you:

• Shop at your favorite local toy store and purchase gifts from the suggested shopping list below. Bring your unwrapped gifts to Canterbury or Avondale United Methodist Church before November 28.
• Purchase gifts from our Amazon wish list. Go to https://a.co/e3PrzLx. You can even change the delivery address to CUMC Village, 350 Overbrook Road, Birmingham, AL 35213, and they will ship directly.
• Financial donations are always welcome. These will allow us to shop and fill in with gifts that are needed. Please mark your donations with “Christmas Village” in the memo line, and mail to: Avondale Samaritan Place, 3829 - 5th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35222.


Second Annual BakesGiving:
ALL ARE WELCOME!

Thanksgiving will soon be here, and Avondale Samaritan Place would love to share the season with our neighbors! This FREE community event will feature delicious samplings of the very best sweets of the holidays – cakes, pies, cookies, and other tasty treats. Face painting, a cake walk, crafting tables, and more. Prepare for outstanding family fun!


Download a flyer here: https://bit.ly/3sGIGnq.

CITY OF BIRMINGHAM CODE ENFOCEMENT RESOURCE GUIDE

https://www.birminghamal.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Code_Enforcement_Resource_Guide_Final.pdf ;

The City of Birmingham strives to maintain quality neighborhoods and a clean environment. In an effort to achieve this goal, we are committed to reducing blight by educating our residents, enforcing laws, targeting violators and encouraging ongoing compliance. In some instances, residents may not be aware of the various code and zoning violations that could be occurring on their property or properties around them; and may also need resources on how to address these violations.


The most common code violations include:

• High weeds, trash, junk and debris in yards
• Illegally parked vehicles in a front yard and inoperable vehicles
• Failure to maintain structures
• Businesses using residential property

Code Enforcement Town Hall on September 15th!

Staff Shortages Delay Trash and Brush Pickup in Birmingham

Mayor Randall Woodfin speaks to the City Council. (Source: Facebook livestream)

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin told the City Council on Tuesday that staffing shortages were the root cause of recent delays in bulk trash and brush pickups throughout the city.

Woodfin was responding to a question from District 3 Councilor Valerie Abbott, who said she’d received “tons of calls” from residents upset that their trash had not been picked up on schedule. “We actually have some citizens who wait until the night before, like the law says, to put all their (trash) out, and then nobody comes and picks it up,” she said.

Woodfin said that he had discussed the issue with public works employees, “and what they shared was that it’s not just an equipment problem … We’re short truck drivers.”

The city has worked to improve retention and recruitment in that department, Woodfin said, and has increased the pay rate for bulk trash truck drivers. Even so, the city has had to decrease its bulk trash pickup schedule from twice a month to every three weeks.

Now, Woodfin said, the city is focused on communication, with plans to use social media, the city’s website and 311 services “to communicate to the public and actually be vulnerable and honest enough to say, ‘We missed this date. We’ll make it up to you. We’ll be back.’”

“I expect that gap in hiring will close at some point,” he added. “I expect a lot of this to ease up.”

“We’re still in trouble, but thank you,” Abbott replied.

Forest Park / South Avondale Neighborhood Association February 2022 Newsletter

Forest Park / South Avondale Neighborhood Association

Tuesday, February 1, 2022,

AVONDALE LIBRARY

Per Mayor Woodfin's Executive Order, Face Masks will be required

February Agenda items include:

1. Monthly Report from the South Precinct

2. Monthly Report from Fire Department

3. Monthly Report from Public Works office, Mary Gunnerson.

4. Monthly Report from Friends of Avondale Park (Neal Flum)

5. Discussion about Noise in the neighborhood related to leaf blowers and a proposed solution to this issue (Tom Cosby)

8. Monthly Report from District 3 Board of Education Representative (Mary Boehm)

9. Monthly Report from District 5 City Councilor, (Darrell O'Quinn)

10. Monthly Report from District 3 City Councilor, (Valerie Abbott)


Forest Park / South Avondale Brush and Trash Pick Up dates.

  • TUESDAY, February 15

  • TUESDAY, March 8

  • TUESDAY, March 29

Missed Pick-up - Dial 311

Report Illegal Dumping - Dial 311


Forest Park South Avondale Neighborhood Association Meeting

Avondale Library

January 4, 2022

The meeting was called to order at 6:30pm by Jeff McGee, president.

No report was submitted by the South Precinct.

No report was submitted by the Fire Department.

No report was submitted by the Public Works Office.

Jeff announced that Neal Flum of Friends of Avondale Park was unable to attend due to illness. Neal reported to Jeff that FOAP has turned in a list of needs to the City, including the serious flooding problems, pond and goose issues. There is some optimism that the pond might be dredged before the World Games.

Martha Council provided an update on the Miss Fancy project. She and Bryan Council have gone before the Park and Rec Board twice, and funding for the project has been approved. Installation has been targeted for March; however supply chain delays may impact the date pushing it back no later than May. The neighborhood had approved allocating funds to the project in a prior meeting. But just to be certain that we comply with all the City requirements, Jeff requested that we again approve the allocation for City records.

A motion was made by Sam Parker to approve the allocation of $5000 to the Miss Fancy Avondale Park Project. The motion was seconded by Martha Council. There being no further discussion, the motion passed all in favor.

Jay Smith was absent due to a celebration honoring his father. Jeff provided an update on the Triangle Park project on his behalf. The soft landing material was delivered by the City and spread by neighborhood volunteers. A neighborhood committee continues to work on improving the Triangle Park for the enjoyment of all, especially our youngsters. More to come on that in future meetings.

Mary Boehm, District 3 Board of Education Representative, reported to neighbors on the City Schools. Right now 5,000 students are enrolled in Intersession Week, a week of extra education and enrichment before the official start of school next week. Avondale Elementary is working with Avondale Library and they are providing storytime for 2nd – 5th graders. In March, the Library will host Book Bingo, and every child will receive a free book.

Carla Perkins, Avondale Library’s Youth Librarian, spoke to neighbors and encouraged us to help them make sure that every child goes home with a new book. Due to Covid, in-kind donations of books are not helpful right now. Monetary donations will go much farther, especially because Ms Carla can purchase books through educational wholesalers. If you would like to donate to the book drive, make checks payable to Birmingham Public Library, and put Youth Department/Avondale School in the subject line. Checks may be dropped off at the Library or mailed to Avondale Library attn:Youth Department or Carla Perkins.

Representative Boehm did not have current covid data to report for BCS, but the plan is to return to in person school, with weekly testing available along with vaccination clinics thanks to a partnership with UAB. She is still investigating the costs of soft landing materials for Avondale Elementary and will report back soon with a request for assistance. They are excited about the mental health financial support from the Mayor’s Office and City Council as well as Jefferson County tax monies collected. A new charter school application from a group out of Memphis is presently under review. Finally, a United Way initiative for high dosage tutoring has begun with tutors from 6 local colleges/universities.

Carla Perkins added that Avondale Library will be hosting the city-wide Summer Reading Kick-Off celebration in Avondale Park this May.

Councilor Valerie Abbott reported to neighbors on the fast City Council meeting she attended earlier in the day. The best news from the meeting was the new 311 call system should be up and running by the end of the first quarter (March). Soon we should be able to check on our 311 reports via a fantastic computer system but in the meantime, always get a confirmation number when you make a report. Councilor Abbott responded to questions. The Council is waiting to see if the Mayor’s Office delivers on its promise to help see their neighborhood projects funded. The 21st St viaduct is underway, and she can check on its progress from Councilor O’Quinn. She remains optimistic about the working abilities of the newly elected Council – they all seem focused on providing services to the citizens of Birmingham. She will follow up with the garbage pilot program in response to concerns about the pick up methods.

Councilor O’Quinn’s new Chief of Staff, Myeisha Hutchinson, introduced herself to the neighborhood. Ms Hutchinson has deep connections to the City and is excited to be back serving the citizens of Birmingham. Her email address is myeisha.hutchinson@birminghamal.gov

She welcomes neighbor questions and requests for assistance.

Final announcements: The World games is looking for 3300 volunteers. The application is on-line. A 20 hour commitment over 2 weeks entitles the volunteer to 8 complimentary tickets.

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 7:12pm.


Create Birmingham 2022 Programs

Costarters

Since Create Birmingham launched CO.STARTERS in 2014, 280+ entrepreneurs have graduated from the program. Many have gone on to launch successful enterprises — from nonprofit ventures to brick-and-mortar shops and food tours.

You can join this network of creative professionals and take your dream job, community venture, side hustle, or creative concept to the next level with long-term support and experience from a team of experts!

Our Winter 2022 cohort begins February 7 and meets every Monday evening from 6:00 - 9:00 pm for 10 weeks. Our priority is removing barriers - and that includes financial hardships. So, costs are based on a sliding scale depending on your household income.

Learn more and apply now.

Our cohort is planning to meet in person, masks required, but we recognize there may need to be a change for the safety of our cohort.


ROADMAP GOAL-SETTING WORKSHOP

JANUARY 20 from 8:30 - 10:00 AM

REGISTER HERE

Creative ventures and entrepreneurship aren’t for the faint of heart, but you CAN make a difference. And we can help! Register now for our free, virtual Roadmap Goal Setting Workshop on January 20 from 8:30 - 10:00 am.

Let us walk with you as you set goals for your project and map out how to accomplish what you’re dreaming of! Together, we create Birmingham.

The Embrace Mothers program is a pilot program created for the City of Birmingham to ensure a guaranteed income for single mothers. Approved by the City Council, 110 participants will receive $375 over a 12 month period.

The application process will take place between January and February 2022. Though an exact date has not been determined, the city encourages those interested in participating to continuously check the link below for more information.

Learn More Here!

Forest Park + South Avondale December Newsletter

In lieu of the annual neighborhood holiday gathering, there will not be a December Neighborhood Association meeting. Please save the date for the holiday gathering on Sunday December 19.


From your Forest Park / South Avondale Neighborhood Association Officers and Advisory Board,

Have a safe and happy Holiday Season!

Jeff McGee, President

Jay Smith, Vice President

Elizabeth Crawford, Secretary

Emily Jones, Treasurer

Board Members

Tom Cosby, Martha Council, Jeremy Day, Neal Flum, John Forney, Donna Florio, Pat Hudson, Elizabeth Pierce, Maury Shevin, Donna Sophronia Sims, Chris Woods


Forest Park South Avondale Neighborhood Association Meeting

Tuesday, November 2, 2021

Avondale Library

The meeting was called to order by Jeff McGee, president, at 6:30pm.

Friends of Avondale Park (FOAP) president Neal Flum provided an update to neighbors.

A copy of his report is attached to the end of these minutes.** After reporting strong membership numbers, Mr Flum responded to a question regarding membership renewal. FOAP is working on the IT aspects of notifying members about dues and renewals. He also stated that membership meetings that were canceled due to covid concerns will resume once a large safe space is located. A neighbor reported that seemingly toxic goose poop and algae sludge is flowing in the Park after rainstorms. Discussion of the public health concerns, World Games presentation and possible solutions to the issue followed. Neighbors are encouraged to send their concerns and pictures of the hazard to the Director of the Parks and Recreation Board, Shonae’ Eddins-Bennett, shonae.eddins@birminghamal.gov as well as to the rest of the Board. **Please see a complete list of P&R representatives at the end of these minutes for reference.

Lt. Michael Nix of Station 22 reported to the neighborhood on behalf of the Birmingham Fire Department. Lt Nix cautioned neighbors to make sure all space heaters are a minimum of 3 feet away from flammable sources. In response to a question about household fire extinguishers, neighbors were encouraged to check the expiration date on extinguishers and replace expired extinguishers. In addition, make note of the manufacturer exclusions so that the extinguishers are appropriately applied. Lt Nix assured neighbors that if called, the Fire Dept will always respond. He also asked that neighbors use best judgment when calling 911. Discussion followed regarding misconceptions of firefighter duties (they are not plumbers or electricians) and reassurances of commitment to neighbor wellbeing (they will always respond to calls for assistance, and make appropriate referrals if needed). Station 22/10 is located at 4425 5th Ave. So.

There was no report from the Birmingham Police Department or from Birmingham Public Works.

Jay Smith, vice-president, updated neighbors on the soft landing material for Triangle Park. At present, we still do not have a date for when the materials will be delivered to the park. The neighborhood approved the funds to purchase the mulch in February, and the money got to Parks and Rec (P&R) 2 1/2 months ago. Our CRS rep, Jasmine Fells, has been following this for us, and confirmed by email that the funds arrived with P&R. Now we are stuck waiting on P&R to actually order and deliver the mulch.

Mary Boehm, District 3 Birmingham Board of Education Representative, reported to neighbors her excitement to have a whole new group of young, progressive School Board members sworn in last week. She is looking forward to better partnerships within the Board and with the Mayor and City Council. $1 million of mental health funds has arrived from the City budget to provide much needed assistance following these extremely challenging pandemic years. 3rd grade reading scores continue to be their major focus, and based on state department of education data, they have work to do to get 30% of their kids up to speed before the May deadline. The schools are providing intercession periods at the end of each 9 weeks where kids get fed breakfast and lunch, and get remediation work. They will soon add extracurricular activities to that school day. Avondale School is in need of playground mulch and a tabletop basketball clock for games. Ms Boehm was asked to bring the costs for these items to the next meeting and we will welcome a formal request for their purchase.

District 3 City Councilor Valerie Abbott spoke to neighbors about the Council meeting today. Two items of interest brought to our attention included a request by the BPD to send officers to be trained by ICE and a contract with the NUSFL to play games in the new Protective Stadium. The police training is meant to help catch human traffickers and drug dealers, but was sent to committee to clarify the question of immigration enforcement. The NUSFL contract was negotiated in secret by past Council president Parker. A resolution of intent was passed by the Council allowing up to $500k in supportive funds next year if the NUSFL needs them. Councilor Abbott added her support to the idea of publicizing the problems at Avondale Park. She encouraged neighbors to send their concerns to everyone on the Board, on the Council Committee, and the Director, being the “squeaky wheel” with vivid pictures of the problem, to get something done. Finally, Councilor Abbott spoke favorably of the newly elected Council members. She believes this may be the best Council she has served with during her 6 terms, and is encouraged by the potential for civil discourse and “nice” attitudes of her new peers. She also believes the relationship with the Mayor will improve as a result.

As a final matter of interest, Jeff McGee brought the upcoming Birmingham Opera performance in the neighborhood to everyone’s attention. On Saturday, Nov. 6th, a pop up performance will be held at 4233 Cliff Rd. From 4 - 5 pm. The street will be blocked off between Essex and 42nd, to allow for chairs to be set up to enjoy the performance. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,

Elizabeth Crawford, secretary

Carly Miller, Vice President

Montal Morton, President

Birmingham Parks and Recreation Board

latonya.tate@birminghamal.govLaTonya Tate

crystal.smitherman@birminghamal.govCrystal N. Smitherman

carol.clarke@birminghamal.govChair – Carol E. Clarke

Birmingham City Council P&R Committee

shonae.eddins@birminghamal.govShonae’ Eddins-Bennett

Director, Birmingham Parks & Recreation

Birmingham Parks and Recreation Contact list:

Ronald D. Mitchell

Larry D. Cockrell

Carol E. Clarke

Please note: Individual email addresses for Board Members are not provided by the City

https://www.facebook.com/BirminghamParkandRecreationBoard/#


Forest Park / South Avondale

Brush and Trash Pick Up dates.

Monday, December 20

Missed Pick-up - Dial 311

Report Illegal Dumping - Dial 311


Special Invitation to our neighbors in Forest Park / South Avondale.

Avondale Samaritan Place is sponsoring “Cookies with Santa” on Sunday, December 12, from 2 PM - 4PM. The FREE event will include photos with the big guy himself, cookies & cocoa, Ginger Bread House Makeovers, Christmas Ornament Creation, Paper Snowflake Design 101, an Away-in-the-Manger Craft, a Reindeer Food Activity, coloring sheets and games – a real afternoon of family fun.

Make Your Voice Heard! Birmingham Municipal Elections are Today!

Make Your Voice Heard! Click Here for Election Info, Find Your Polling Place, and More!

Birmingham Municipal Elections are Tuesday, August 24, 2021. Polls are open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m.