The Oak Park Report

The Oak Park Report
Published quarterly by the City of Oak Park
Autumn Edition, 2004
Agreement brings another expansion of City’s borders
A little more than six decades ago, the residents who led Oak Park’s transition from a village
to a chartered city were expecting to include more territory within the municipality than the
incorporation ultimately comprised. Specifically, they anticipated making the land bordered by
Greenfield, Lincoln, 10 Mile Road and the Lincoln Briar Apartments part of the new Oak Park.
It didn’t play out that way in 1945, but – just a few months before the start of the City’s
year-long celebration of its 60th anniversary – that land indeed has become part of Oak Park.
The addition is the most recent step, and perhaps the final one, in a series of expansions by
which properties that had been in Royal Oak Township became sections of the City.
The prior steps came via approval of three annexation proposals in a pair of elections held
last year. Voters living in the affected (now former) township properties and throughout Oak
Park participated in the balloting. The results were challenged in court cases brought by
township officials.
This expansion, finalized Oct. 20, is much different both in process and atmosphere. It is
the product of an agreement between Oak Park and Royal Oak Township; not another
annexation. And it was made possible by an attitude of mutual cooperation and concern for
the best interests of each of the entities and their citizens.
City Attorney John A. Carlson explained the procedure this way:
“Act 425 of the Public Acts of Michigan authorizes two or more local units of government
to conditionally transfer property from one unit to the other. The governmental units are
authorized to agree to the terms of the transfer, including those that specify which of them
has jurisdiction for what purposes and, most importantly, how revenues are to be shared.
“The agreement must state where the property in question goes at the finalization of the
agreement – in this case, to Oak Park.”
Before administering their respective stamps of approval, the governmental units must
each hold a public hearing on the proposed agreement, Carlson said. Both the City and the
township did so, then gave it their official okays. A provision of the act calls for a referendum
INSIDE THE REPORT
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3
4
Finance Department, Public Information Department
• Oak Park receives trio of financial management awards
• OPTV-15 program listings through December
Special features
• Hit TV show rating: “A great experience…a great
community”
Department of Public Safety
• Halloween can be hazardous to kids; adults should help
• What drivers must do when the confront school buses
• The fundamental importance of properly-working
smoke alarms
Special Section: Citizen
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10
11
Participation Guide
• All residents are invited to “get involved”
• Boards and Commissions link citizenry to Council
• Voting: the essential form of participation
• Contacting your elected officials, local state and federal
The Department of Public Works
• Residents asked to rake leaves “early and often”
• Holiday rubbish collection schedules detailed
• An expanded list of accepted paper recycling items
• DPW outlines it snow plowing procedure
Department of Library Services
• Council appoints five members to first-ever Board of
Directors
• Author visit: metro area poet/teacher
• Story Time sessions slated through November
Department of Recreation
• A cool-weather lineup of some hot classes
• Special trips for families, teenagers
• On-line registration offered for Recreation activities
• Senior Roundup features new class, variety of trips
• Haunted Hayride highlights Halloween Spooktacular
• Kids can register for youth basketball leagues and clinics
only if 20 percent or more of the registered voters in the affected territory sign a petition that
is filed within 30 days of the public hearing. This did not occur, so no election was necessary.
Act 425 was not the only legal process applied in the transaction, Carlson further
explained.
“Another statute, Act 7 of 1967, provides for an Urban Cooperation Agreement that
allows for joint exercise of authority by two or more local units of government,” he said.
continued on page 10
…not in the best interest of the City
Council opposes annexation
of Bridgewater Apartments
While Oak Park’s officials do not endorse candidates, the City Council occasionally
will declare its position regarding a local election issue that directly affects citizens and
their municipal government. The Nov. 2 General Election is such an occasion, because
a local ballot question related to the annexation process detailed in the story above is
just such an issue.
Specifically, Council has declared its unanimous opposition to the proposed
annexation of the Bridgewater Apartments property that currently is within Royal Oak
Township. In asserting this position at its regular meeting of Oct. 4, Council called for
residents to vote “no” on City Ballot Proposal #2004-01. The question appears directly
under the heading “CITY PROPOSALS” on the top right of the back page of the
election ballot.
“The language of our resolution explains exactly why we have made this
recommendation,” stated Mayor Gerald E. Naftaly. “We are extremely concerned by the
fact that the Bridgewater ownership has refused to commit to paying its appropriate
share of the expenses that are associated with annexation or a property transfer.
“These include the costs to the City of the election, the defense of litigation likely to
arise from the annexation, the liabilities for which Oak Park would become responsible,
and possible future tax revenue losses due to property tax assessment appeals.
continued on page 10
Clerk’s Office is “fully prepared”
for large General Election turnout
Although political experts expect exceptionally heavy voter turnouts throughout the country for the Nov. 2 General Election, the City Clerk’s Office is expecting no unusual delays
at Oak Park’s 18 polling locations.
“There probably will be long lines at various times during the day because of the tremendous interest in this very close Presidential Election, but we are fully prepared for a very
heavy turnout,” said City Clerk Sandra K. Gadd. “All of our precincts are staffed by workers who keep the operation running as smoothly as possible.
“These individuals, who are trained and supervised by my office, assist in a number of
ways. They are on-hand at the polling places to explain procedures, provide materials and
information, and to answer voters’ quesCity office holiday closings
tions. They keep everything moving efficiently by helping voters.”
Residents are being reminded that
Oak Park’s municipal offices will be
Polls will open at 7 a.m. and close at 8
closed for the upcoming holidays
p.m. All voters who are in-line at closing
according to the following schedules:
time will be allowed to cast ballots, Ms.
# Thanksgiving: On Thanksgiving
Gadd said.In addition to the Presidential
Day,
Nov. 25, and on Friday, Nov. 26.
race, offices to be elected include: US
#
Christmas: On Dec. 23, and on
Representative in Congress (all districts);
Christmas Eve, Dec. 24. This is because
State Representative (all districts); State
Christmas Day falls on a Saturday this
Board of Education (two seats); University
year and the City employees’ union conof Michigan Regents (two seats); Michigan
tract stipulates days off for both
State University Trustees (two seats);
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Wayne State University Governors (two
# New Year’s: On Dec. 30 and on
seats); Justice of the Supreme Court; Judge
New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31. This also is
of the Court of Appeals, Judge of the Circuit
specified in the contract, to assure that
Court, Judge of Probate; and a number of
employees receive two days off whenOakland County Offices.
ever New Year’s Day falls on a weekend.
All City departments will be closed
A list of Oak Park’s precinct locations is
on these dates with the exception of
provided in the four-page special section,
Public Safety, which, of course, operates
the Citizen Participation Guide, which is at
around the clock every day. As always,
the center of this edition of The Oak Park
residents should call 911 only to report
Report.
an emergency. To request information or
Questions about the Nov. 2 General
to report a non-emergency safety conElection should be directed to the City
cern, residents can call 248-691-7447.
Clerk’s Office 248-691-7544.
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The Department of
The Department of
Finance
Public Information
248-691-7545
248-691-7588
City receives three major national financial awards
Effective and efficient financial management always is essential to municipalities, especially during difficult economic periods. That makes it especially newsworthy that Oak
Park’s Department of Financial and Administrative Services has been recognized for its
excellence during the current fiscal crunch.
In fact, the department simultaneously has received three prestigious honors from the
Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), a non-profit professional organization
that serves 14,000 government finance officials throughout North America. These are:
The Distinguished Budget Presentation Award – According to the GFOA, the award
“reflects the commitment of the governing body and staff to meeting the highest principles
of governmental budgeting.”
In order to earn the honor, the City had to satisfy nationally-recognized guidelines for
effective budge presentation; elements designed to assess how well its budget serves as: 1)
a policy document; 2) a financial plan; 3) an operations guide; and 4) a communications
device. Budget documents must be rated “proficient” in all four categories to receive the
award.
Since the inception of the Distinguished Budget Presentation Awards program in 1984,
about 900 municipalities have earned the recognition. “Award recipients have pioneered
efforts to improve the quality of budgeting and provide an excellent example for other governments throughout North America,” the GFOA said.
The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting – The Finance
Department received this award for its comprehensive annual finance report. The certificate
“is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial
reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and
its management,” according to the association.
An impartial panel decides certificate recipients according to a variety of standards,
including a report’s “constructive spirit of full disclosure to clearly communicate its financial story.”
The Award for Outstanding Achievement in Popular Annual Financial Reporting –
This honor is for Oak Park’s annual financial report to its citizens. In order to receive it, “as
government unit must publish a popular annual financial report whose contents conform to
program standards of creativity, presentation, understandability and reader appeal,” the
GFOA said. The award recognizes “conformance with the highest standards for preparation
of state and local government popular reports.”
James Ghedotte, Director of the Department of Financial and Administrative Services,
was individually recognized by the association in conjunction with two of the awards. As
the individual primarily responsible for the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award, he
received a Certificate of Recognition for Budget Presentation. As the individual primarily
responsible for the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, he
received an Award of Financial Reporting.
Oak Park is one of only six municipalities in Michigan to receive all three of the GFOA
honors this year.
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Oak Park wins MML honor for project aiding students
Finance Director James Ghedotte and Karen Pawlowski, Assistant to the Finance
Director, show off the awards conferred this year by the GFOA. Ms. Pawlowski
“makes a significant contribution” to the annual budget preparation effort,
Ghedotte said.
The Michigan Municipal League (MML) has honored the City for its role in a project
designed to provide local high school students with more career-focused educational opportunities than they’d otherwise have.
The organization, which represents hundreds of cities, townships and villages throughout
the state, announced that: “Your project – One School, One Bank, One City – is a winner in
the 21st annual Michigan Municipal Achievement Awards competition.” The award was
officially conferred at the MML’s recent 106th annual convention.
One School, One Bank, One City is designed to stimulate “personal, educational and
financial achievements and awards for outstanding high school students” and to “enhance
high school business curriculum.” The City and Standard Federal Bank, plus several other
partners in both the public and private sector jointly committed to meeting these needs,
which developed because economic shortfalls greatly reduced schools’ business courses and
students’ access to training beyond high school.
Oak Park High School was one of three metro-area high schools selected for the project’s
pilot effort in the 2003-2004 school year. The results accomplished over that initial period
were significant factors in earning the MML award.
Of the seven Oak Park High students who successfully completed the program last year,
four have gone on to attend four-year universities and three have enrolled in community colleges. This year’s statistics are even more impressive. All of the 10 Oak Park students who
successfully completed the program have been accepted at four-year universities.
OPTV-15 Programming through December
City Council Meetings
LIVE gavel-to-gavel coverage begins at 7:30 pm,
November 1 & 15, December 6 & 20
City Council Replays
Mondays and Thursdays – 10 am, 2 pm, 7 pm & 11:30
pm (no 7 pm or 11:30 pm showings on actual meeting
dates)
Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays – 6 pm & 10 pm
The Oak Park Report Update
Mondays and Thursdays – 8 am, 5 pm & 10 pm
Tuesdays and Fridays – 2:30 am, 10:45 am & 7 pm
Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays – midnight, 10
am, 6 pm & 10:30 pm
The Streets of Oakland County
With Sheriff Michael Bouchard
Mondays and Thursdays – 9:30 am, 5:30 pm & 10:30
pm
Tuesdays and Fridays – 11 am, 6:30 pm & 11:30 pm
Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays – 8 am & 6:30 pm
Who’s Who at the Library
Mondays and Thursdays – 7 am, 4 pm & 9 pm
Tuesdays and Fridays – 9:30 am, 5 pm & 10 pm
Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays – 6:30 am & 3 pm
Cable Fables
Mondays and Thursdays – 7:45 am, 4:45 pm & 9:45 pm
Tuesdays and Fridays – 10:15 am, 5:45 pm & 10:45 pm
Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays – 6:45 am & 3:15
pm
Story Time at the Library
Mondays and Thursdays – 7:15 am, 4:15 pm & 9:15 pm
Tuesday and Fridays – 9:45 am, 5:15 pm & 10:15 pm
Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays – 6:45 am & 3:15
pm
Recreation on the Move
Mondays and Thursday – 9 am, 6 pm & 11 pm
Tuesdays and Fridays – 11:30 am, 7 pm & midnight
Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays – 8:30 am & 5 pm
Class Arts Showcase (Live)
Mondays and Thursdays – 9:15 am & 6:15
Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays – 11 am, 2 pm,
5:15 pm & 8 pm
NASA Gallery- NTV (Live
Tuesdays and Fridays – 7 am, 2 pm & 7:15 p.m.
PROGRAM NOTES
$ Additional showings: With the obvious exception of
live-cablecast City Council Meetings, the shows listed
here occasionally will be presented in time slots other
than their regular schedules. These additions will be
announced in advance on the OPTV-15 and Municipal
Channel 16 rotating message bulletin boards.
$ News from service providers: The Oak Park Report
Update features interviews with key personnel from the
municipal departments that deliver services to residents
day-by-day throughout the year. Residents can learn
about upcoming programs in the Recreation
Department, the Library, the Department of Public
Works, the Department of Public Safety and other
agencies in the civic complex.
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Special.........
Features
On page 4 ➠
Protecting children from
Some really scary hazards
that come with Halloween
Fire Prevention Week
stresses importance of
working smoke alarms
“A great experience…a great community”
Hit TV show’s production rallies the Family City spirit
No one knew exactly what to expect when Extreme
Makeover Home Edition, one of America’s most popular
television programs, came to Oak Park in August. However,
it is safe to say that everyone involved enjoyed a more
rewarding experience than they ever could have expected.
And when the segment airs sometime in late October or
early November, millions of viewers throughout the country
will see all of the elements of a great story that could only
happen as it did in a place like “The Family City.”
To hear the hit program’s Location Manager, Chris
Larsen, tell it, there just aren’t very many places quite like
Oak Park. In fact, he happily admits that he’s never been to
such a community. But let’s save that for a little later. First,
a brief review of the details as they developed:
Stefan Vardon, 14, nominated his family’s home at 14300
Labelle in the City’s northwest section, for consideration by
the show’s officials. He pointed out that his parents, Larry
and Judith Vardon, both are deaf and that his 12-year-old
brother, Lance, is both autistic and blind.
The idea caught the interest of Extreme Makeover’s
producers, and Larsen was sent to Oak Park to evaluate the
prospects. He met with municipal administrators to explain
what was being deliberated and to assess how much
cooperation the City would be able to provide.
Producers selected the Vardon home for their ABC-TV
aired program. They arranged with metro-area contractors
and subcontractors to handle the project – total renovation
of the house and grounds – and brought to town the Extreme
Makeover Home Edition cast and production crew.
Work on the home began Aug. 5. Meanwhile, the entire
Vardon family was treated to a vacation in northern
Michigan.
City officials made certain that the cast and construction
workers got everything they needed in order to complete the
project within the incredibly brief period of one week.
Building and electrical codes were explained and met,
traffic and parking in the area was managed, crowd control
– never a problem – was arranged for. Daily gatherings of
neighbors, fellow residents and visitors from elsewhere
ranged from the hundreds to well over a thousand persons as
the work continued around the clock.
In just one week, the Vardon’s house was dramatically transformed by an “Extreme Makeover.“
The renovation was finished on schedule and the Vardons
returned. A huge crowd, including City Council Members
and other officials, looked on as they saw and toured their
new home for the first time. Metro-area television stations,
which had reported on the project from its inception,
covered the event.
These points help to establish the storyline, but they
cannot convey the real story. That was best achieved at the
Aug. 16 regular City Council Meeting, where the Vardons
were officially congratulated. They received a resolution
which, in part, stated:
The Vardon’s extended family, dozens of their neighbors,
plus hundreds more of their fellow residents and many
others who are fans of the program came together day after
day around the construction site to watch as the home was
re-created literally from the ground up over the span of just
one week, and…
The Extreme Makeover project brought the City of Oak
Park a great deal of positive media attention and will do so
once again when the “Vardon Edition” of the program is
aired nationally this coming autumn, and…
All of us who proudly call “The Family City” our
hometown appreciate the opportunity to share this inspiring
experience…the City Council and Administration were
pleased and honored to be part of the family’s homecoming.
There were more than enough expressions of appreciation
to go around, and all of them illustrated “what the Family
City is all about,” Mayor Naftaly declared.
The Vardons, who were kept abreast via hand-signing of
all the statements made during the presentations, expressed
their gratitude for “everything everyone did.” Stefan spoke
for his parents and himself in addressing Council Members
and the entire City (on OPTV-15).
Larsen, who presented a check from the show fully
reimbursing the City for all expenses related to the
production, was effusive in his praise for the community.
“I’ve worked on at least 10 of our previous shows in other
places and this experience completely stands out,” he said.
“Every aspect came together as well as we ever could have
hoped, thanks to this City Council, the departments, the
neighbors and all of the people who live in Oak Park.
“It has been an absolutely great experience, thanks to a
truly special community.”
On-camera members of the show’s cast constantly
took new ideas and designs directly from the drawing
board to the structure.
Crews of workers were busy on the jobsite 24 hours a
day throughout the construction process.
As hundreds of residents share the moment, Extreme
Makeover Home Edition star Ty Pennington
introduces the just-arrived Vardons to their totally
renovated home.
Location Manager Chris Larsen addresses City
Council at its Aug. 16 meeting — “Every aspect came
together as well as we ever could have hoped, thanks
to this City Council, the departments, the neighbors
and all of the people who live in Oak Park.”
Larry and Judith Vardon, accompanied by their older
son, Stefan, are kept current with the Council
presentation. Stefan, who is not hearing-impaired,
addressed the meeting.
Mayor Gerald E. Naftaly officially hands the Vardons
their special resolution – All of us who proudly call
The Family City our hometown appreciate the
opportunity to share this inspiring experience…
The Department of
Page
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Public Safety
248-691-7520
Dealing with the REAL scary stuff
Adults can make Halloween
less dangerous for children
It’s that special once-a-year night when small children delight in pretending to be afraid of
monsters, ghosts, goblins and witches. It’s Halloween, of course, when hundreds of youngsters
in every neighborhood will dress in scary costumes and go trick-or-treating. And it’s great fun
because the “evil” creatures are all harmless fantasies, and thus pose no actual threat.
However, not all of the frightening aspects of Halloween are make-believe. Some all-tooreal hazards can be lurking when the kids go out.
That very serious reminder from the Department of Public Safety is accompanied by an
important message to all residents: The community’s adults are responsible for protecting
young children from the dangers of the night.
“Kids look forward to Halloween for weeks ahead of time and when the traditional
activities actually begin, most of them are just too excited to pay much attention to safety
considerations,” said Officer Kevin Edmonds, the department’s Community Services
Coordinator. “The little ones, especially, are often giddy, careless and impulsive. And that is
exactly the kind of behavior that should be expected of children when they go out on
Halloween night.
“The bottom line is that the safety of all these kids depends on the grownups of the
community.”
Edmonds placed particular emphasis on two areas: 1- driving through residential
neighborhoods during the evening; and 2- the need for parents and caregivers to fully prepare
their trick-or-treaters for a safe outing. He offered the following guidelines for drivers.
# When on residential streets, drive even more slowly than usual.
# Be especially alert for children walking on roadways, medians and along curbs – keep
in mind that kids who are wearing dark costumes will be difficult to see after sundown.
# Be prepared at all times for kids to dart suddenly into the street, especially from
between parked vehicles (this is a possibility 365 days a year, but even more likely because
of the excitement of Halloween).
# Make certain that your vehicle’s headlights are clean and working properly, so you can
see and be seen.
# If you are driving children to their trick-or-treat rounds, make sure they exit the car on
the curb side, away from the flow of traffic.
Edmonds provided the following recommendations for children’s costumes, a list
compiled by the Safety Council for Southeast Michigan (SCSM):
# Costumes should be loose enough so that warm clothing can be worn underneath and
kids can still have freedom of movement.
# Clothing should not hang down so low that a tripping hazard exists.
Outfits should be made with light-colored flame-retardant fabric, and reflective tape
should be added to make children as visible as possible to drivers.
# Using makeup instead of a mask will help ensure that a child’s vision is not blocked.
Also regarding safe preparation, the SCSM also urges parents to make sure that:
# An adult or older sibling will be supervising trick-or-treaters who are younger than 12.
# Children travel only in familiar areas and along established routes.
# Kids know they should only stop at houses or apartments that are well-lighted, and that
they should never enter a stranger’s home or vehicle.
# Each child has – or is accompanied by someone who has – a cellular phone that can
be readily used in case they encounter a problem.
# A specific return-home time has been set and agreed upon.
# Children clearly understand that no treat should be eaten until it has been inspected by
adults at home.
“We recommend that parents and other adults review these points as a checklist,”
Edmonds said. “It takes just a few minutes to consider the recommendations and very little
additional time to prepare and instruct kids for a safe outing.
“These steps are very easy, but they are aimed at one of the most important goals all of
us share – making things safer for our children.”
On the following 4 pages ➠
Special Section: Citizen Participation Guide
How residents can “get involved”
in their government
Quick quiz: what should drivers do
when they encounter school buses?
By now, everyone who drives a car has had to deal with at least one halted or slowing
school bus in the roadway. The big yellow vehicles have been busy picking up and
dropping off kids all over town since classrooms opened the first week in September.
Most of these students have had to face a number of exams in the weeks since Labor
Day. Now, it’s your turn. Can you pass a “pop quiz” about the regulations governing
traffic around school buses?
If you think the subject is easy, consider such issues as: Which of the flashing lights
mean exactly what? How close should you get to a stopped bus? When is it okay for you
to get the car moving again? Are you sure you know the answers? If not, you aren’t
alone.
“All too many drivers are indecisive when they come across a school bus,” said Officer
Kevin Edmonds, the Public Safety Department’s Community Services Coordinator.
“They really are not certain whether they should proceed before the bus comes to a
complete stop or how far away they should keep their own vehicles or whether the
regulations apply to them if they’re headed in the opposite direction of the bus.
“The language of the law, a set of rules designed to protect kids, can be confusing.
And details can easily be forgotten from one school year to the next. For these reasons,
it is a good idea for all drivers to test their knowledge of the regulations, in order to
make sure they will respond properly when relevant situations arise on the road.”
So, what’s a driver to do? The following questions deal with the law in everyday
terms, so the answers more likely will translate into correct action.
Q: Does it make any difference whether the lights that start flashing on a school
bus are red or yellow?
A: No! Some are equipped with red, some with yellow, and some with a combination
of both. Regardless, they all mean the same thing when they begin flashing.
Q: Okay, so what should you do when the red, yellow, or both colors of lights
begin to flash on a school bus that is still moving?
A: As soon as you see this, you should prepare to stop your vehicle at least 20 feet
behind the bus. You should not attempt to pass the bus before it actually comes to a
complete halt.
Q: Now that you have stopped at least 20 feet behind a halted bus and watched
its passengers get on or off, when may you start your vehicle moving once again?
A: You may proceed only after the overhead lights on the bus have ceased flashing.
Q: When the overhead lights no longer flash does this mean that the bus driver
is signaling that everything is clear for me to proceed?
A: Not exactly, and the distinction is important! Dousing the lights means that the bus
driver has made sure that the children he’s dropping off or picking up are off the bus or
seated within it and that the door is closed. It does not mean that every child who has
exited the bus is definitely out of danger. A school bus driver cannot see everything going
on around his or her vehicle, especially close to it. The best answer to this question
therefore is this: Before accelerating you should check to make certain all of the children
are clear of the street.
Q: Do these rules and guidelines also apply to drivers traveling in the direction
opposite of the way the school bus is headed?
A: Yes! In such circumstances you must stop your vehicle at least 20 feet from the
front of the bus. Just imagine a straight line extending from the curb on the opposite side
of the road, along the front fender of the bus and across your lane of travel. Stay at least
20 feet back of that line.
Q: Does this requirement apply if the street is divided into two separate
roadways, as is Oak Park Boulevard?
A: This situation is the only exception to the above requirement, which means that
the legal answer is “no.” However, even on streets that are divided into separate
roadways it is a very good idea to slow down and take a good look for kids racing across
the street to or from a stopped school bus.
Fire Prevention Week theme highlights importance of functioning smoke alarms
The annual seven-day period that for 133 years has been dedicated to helping people stop
fires before they start changed targets a bit this year. The theme of the 2004 version, officially
marked Oct. 3-9, sends a message throughout the nation that Public Safety officials have been
emphasizing to Oak Park residents for years: smoke alarms are essential to fire safety in homes.
“Both the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and this department place as much
importance as ever on measures that help keep fires from occurring,” said Lt. Christopher
Petrides, the City’s Fire Marshal. “That hasn’t changed at all. The difference in the 2004
campaign is that there is a special focus on the tremendous importance of smoke alarms in
family fire safety.
“Taking all of the preventative measures in the world does not guarantee that a fire won’t
start in someone’s home. Safety steps significantly lower the risk, but cannot erase it. This
means that the well-being of everyone in the home can come down to a timely alert that a fire
is burning; in other words, to the warning sounded by properly-operating smoke alarms.”
The NFPA stresses three interrelated objectives in its Fire Prevention Week literature:
# Having a sufficient number of alarms in the correct locations;
# Making certain that all of the devices are working;
# Knowing what to do when you hear an alarm go off.
Public Safety officers are communicating this information to residents via presentations
to students in all elementary schools city-wide. The children learn the concepts, receive ageappropriate informational materials, then do a great job of passing it all along at home,
according to Petrides.
“In terms of the primary points, the kids learn that at least one smoke alarm should be placed
on each level of the house and outside the bedroom area,” he said. “They also pick up very
quickly on the need to make sure that the devices are working; in particular, that the batteries
are fresh. We talk to them about testing each unit on a regular basis and remembering to change
batteries periodically. They understand that a smoke alarm can’t protect you if it doesn’t work.
“We also encourage them to discuss with their families the need for developing and practicing a home fire drill. Everyone should know how they’ll get out if a smoke alarm goes
off, where they’ll meet outside and not to go back inside once they’ve exited.”
The NFPA recommends that families make battery changes easy to remember by taking that
step on the dates that Daylight Savings Time begins in the spring and ends each autumn. It also
promotes the value of drawing a family escape floor plan that show two escape routes from
each room (a door and a window, for example), and of practicing the plan at least twice a year.
Public Safety officers have seen plenty of evidence over the years that working smoke
alarms can make a huge difference when a residential blaze actually breaks out, Petrides said.
“Fires in homes always are unfortunate events, but we have responded to situations that
could have become real tragedies if the families involved didn’t have functioning smoke
alarms,” he explained. “We also have experienced incidents in which there were no working
smoke alarms, and those could have turned out much better for the folks who were affected.
“Simply stated, smoke alarms can save lives.”
City of Oak Park
Citizen Participation Guide
Special Section The Oak Park Report, Autumn 2004
Continuing a six-decade tradition of “getting involved”
All residents are encouraged to
help enhance their government
From a nationwide historical perspective, Oak Park is comparatively young. The marking
of its 60th anniversary as a city won’t arrive until next year. However, six decades has been
plenty of time for Oak Park to establish enduring traditions that municipalities founded as
long ago as the 1800s would boast about.
One of the most important of these is the tradition of citizen participation. It characterized
this community even before cityhood was achieved, and was the force that transformed it
from a village of a few thousand folks. It has been the primary influence on Oak Park’s
physical development, governmental progress and unique character ever since. And this has
been consistently true over the years despite some remarkable demographic changes.
A major reason is that City Council Members always have urged residents to take an
active role in the affairs of their local government. This is as true today as it was in 1945.
“The more that residents get involved with their community, the better their community
will be,” declared Mayor Gerald E. Naftaly. “Elected representatives depend on citizen input
of all kinds. That is an essential aspect of the municipal governing process, one which
greatly enhances the governmental process.
“Participation takes a variety of forms, and all of them are important. Oak Park was founded
on that principle. The city manager form of government was specified by the City Charter that
voters adopted in 1945. This established a permanent special interrelationship between
residents, their City Council representatives, and the municipal services provided to them.”
In basic terms, citizens elect, and communicate with, Council Members – those who set
the policies and priorities for City services that are operated and delivered by professional
administrators under the direction of a City Manager. This means that a consensus of
residents determines how the City works.
As Mayor Naftaly pointed out, there are several kinds of citizen involvement that generate
input. The most prominent, those detailed on the four pages of this special section, are:
#Taking part in City Council Meetings (see special section page D): Residents can
speak during agenda-scheduled public hearings on specifically-related issues, and/or on any
matter affecting the community during the Call to the Audience period at the end of meetings.
#Serving on one or more of the City’s boards and commissions (see special section
page B): These are official advisory bodies, chartered by Council.
#Voting in the elections which determine who will represent all residents as Council
Members (see special section page C): Choosing county, state and national representatives
if, of course, an equally important aspect of this process.
#Communicating “privately” with Council Members and other elected officials
(see special section page D): Telephone, e-mail and regular mail messages from citizens are
always taken into account when decisions are made and ideas are considered for adoption.
There are additional ways to “get involved,” of course. For example, hundreds of
residents participate in Neighborhood Watch groups. Similarly, many citizens directly
contact administrative departments to report concerns, seek important information and
convey ideas. Every kind of positive participation in local government is a meaningful
contribution to the progress of the community.
History proves participation works
There is plenty of evidence that citizen participation makes a big difference. In fact,
history shows that it can have a huge impact.
• The making of a city – The population of the Village of Oak Park hovered at just over
a thousand residents from 1930 into the mid-1940s, according to Census data. Most of
these folks aspired to bigger things for the small municipality, which had been
developed decades before from what had been a swampy, densely-wooded hunting
ground. They wanted to live in a city; one that would be a community of families and
homes; one that consistently provided superior services. They banded together and got
what they wanted, approving the City Charter on Oct. 29, 1945.
INSIDE THIS SPECIAL SECTION
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Page SSC
Page SSD
• Attending City Council Meetings
• Service on Boards and Commissions
• Registering to vote
• Making your ballot count
• Absentee voting
• Precinct locations
How to contact…
• Oak Park’s elected officials
• US Government representatives
• State of Michigan representatives
• The defeat of an airport – Angry residents went to Circuit Court in 1932 and quashed an
effort to locate an airport at 10 Mile Road and Coolidge, despite the fact the Village
Commission had granted permission for the project to begin. However, every Village
Commission and (after 1945) City Council through the 1940a supported such a proposal.
Citizens continued to fight the idea, pitting themselves against airline companies, the
State of Michigan and even the Federal Government. As recently as 1946, a plan was
presented that would have located an airport in the area bounded by Capital Avenue,
Greenfield, 10 Mile Road and Wyoming. The people held out, and they prevailed!
• The defeat of a racetrack – For years it was airplanes, then it was horses. In 1948, a
well-financed movement to launch a race track in Oak Park was beaten back by
adamantly-expressed public opinion, via a tenacious grassroots campaign.
Of course very few examples of the impact of citizen participation are nearly so dramatic.
Still, as Mayor Naftaly pointed out, all are important to the community. And all of them are
available to the residents of Oak Park.
Volunteers
provide
vital input
Chairperson Gary Torgow and fellow members of the City’s Planning Commission
meet with Mayor Gerald E. Naftaly (seated right). This important body, like all
other Boards and Commissions, is comprised of volunteer residents. It reviews all
land development and zoning proposals in Oak Park and forwards advice and recommendations for legislative actions to City Council. Both Mayor Naftaly and
Councilman Michael M. Seligson (standing far right) are Council representatives,
while City Manager James Hock (standing second from right) and the City Planner
(not in photo) are Administrative representatives.
The City Clerk’s Office: a key resource
The Clerk’s Office, which is located just inside the entrance to City Hall at 13600 Oak
Park Blvd., provides two important areas of municipal service that directly relate to citizen
participation:
1 - It is the administrative center for all elections held in Oak Park. As such, it maintains
residents’ registration and voting records, and trains and supervises election inspectors.
2 - As the repository of all official City records, its jurisdiction includes virtually all
municipal documents, among them the minutes of City Council Meetings.
These responsibilities make the City Clerk’s Office a vital informational and assistance
resource for residents who wish to take part in government affairs. All questions involving
voting regulations, precinct locations, voter registration, and any other aspect of General or
Primary Elections should be directed to the office staff. Also, information about City Council
actions and agendas can be obtained by contacting the City Clerk’s Office, which is open from
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The direct-dial phone number is (248) 691-7544.
How to contact departments
that provide citizen services
Residents don’t have to attend City Council Meetings in order to comment or ask
questions about the municipal services they receive. They can speak directly with
employees who staff Oak Park’s Administrative departments by calling the appropriate
numbers from the following list:
Central City Switchboard..................................................................248-691-7400
Administrative Office (City Manager) .............................................248-691-7410
City Clerk............................................................................................248-691-7544
Code Assistance/Animal Control ......................................................248-691-7460
Finance and Administrative Services ...............................................248-691-7545
Library ................................................................................................248-691-7480
Municipal Cable (OPTV-15) .............................................................248-691-7538
Public Information (Oak Park Report) ...........................................248-691-7589
Public Safety (non-emergency) .........................................................248-691-7447
Public Works.......................................................................................248-691-7497
Recreation ...........................................................................................248-691-7555
Senior Citizen Center.........................................................................248-691-7577
Senior Outreach..................................................................................248-691-7575
Technical and Planning Services.......................................................248-691-7450
Water Department..............................................................................248-691-7470
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The Oak Park Report
Autumn, 2004
Boards and Commissions
Volunteer members make these organizations
important links between residents and Council
# Zoning Board of Appeals Meets 4th Tuesday of each Month at 7:30 p.m.
Hears appeals and requests for variances from the strict enforcement of the zoning
ordinance.
The dozens of volunteer residents who are members of Oak Park’s advisory Boards and
Commissions have taken the most active possible non-elected role in helping to shape the
City’s governmental policies. These appointed citizens provide official creative input
regarding Administrative operations and the delivery of municipal services.
Each Board and Commission is chartered by City Council. Each has an area of
responsibility that is specific to an important Administrative function. Each is a valuable
link between the community and City Council, which represents all residents in determining
the legislative policies that steer governmental operations.
This relationship with Oak Park’s elected officials is formal – in making its decisions at its
regular public meetings, Council considers every pertinent Board and Commission report and
recommendation. Mayor Gerald E. Naftaly emphasized this point while inviting more residents
to apply for appointments to Boards and Commissions whose purviews interest them.
“These organizations are specifically mandated to provide Council with information and
advice,” he said. “All of them, in fact, include at least one City Council Member, along with
an Administrator from a City department. This system brings all of the core elements together:
private residents, their representatives, and employees who supervise the delivery of services.
“Each of these bodies is dedicated to an area of municipal service. For example, the
Emergency Services Council is concerned with the functions of the Public Safety
Department; the Recreation Advisory Board with all of the programs of the Recreation
Department. This means that residents who are interested in a particular aspect of municipal
service can apply for appointment to the Board or Commission that advises Council about
issues and ideas related to that area.
“Council does it best to match the qualified applicants with the organization that most
closely matches their interests. And the opportunity to participate exists right now. As of late
2004, there are vacancies on a number of Boards and Commissions that we would like to
fill as soon as possible.”
Residents can offer themselves as candidates for Board and Commission positions by
applying in writing to: The City Council; 13600 Oak Park Blvd.; Oak Park, MI 48237.
Application forms are available at the City Clerk’s Office at that address (City Hall). Further
information can be obtained by calling 248-691-7540.
Following is a list of Boards and Commissions, as well as several other official advisory
committees.
Residents are invited to attend meetings of any of these
Boards, Commissions and Committees
Oak Park Boards, Commissions and Committees
# Arts and Cultural Commission Meets 4th Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m.
Promotes community interest in, and awareness of, the fine and performing arts by
procuring funds and sponsoring art exhibits, theatrical and musical performances, and
other cultural activities.
# Beautification Advisory Commission Meets 3rd Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m.
Advises City Council and the Department of Public Works regarding matters of
aesthetics and cleanliness in the City. Conducts the annual Clean-up, Fix-Up Campaign.
# Board of Canvassers Meets after each City Election
Certifies vote counts and elections.
# Board of Review Meets in March: first session on 2nd Monday; second session on 4th
Monday
Hears residents’ appeals on property assessments.
# Building Board of Appeals Meetings are held on request
Hears appeals on the enforcement of the construction codes of the Building Division of
the Department of Technical and Planning Services.
# Cable Television Advisory Commission Meets quarterly on 3rd Thursday at 7 p.m.
Monitors the relationship between the cable franchisee and the City as it impacts cable
service to residents. Members must subscribe to cable television.
# Compensation Commission Meetings are held on odd years
Determines the salaries of Mayor and other City Council Members.
# Downspout Board of Appeals Meetings are held on request
Reviews necessity for exceptions to law requiring disconnection of downspouts.
# Election Commission Meetings are held on request
Assists City Clerk during elections.
# Emergency Services Council Meets 2nd Monday monthly, except July and August, at
7:30 p.m.
# Ethnic Advisory Commission Meets 2nd Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m.
Recognizes, maintains, communicates and celebrates the cultural richness of the
community.
# Independence Day Commission Meets 1st Wednesday monthly, Feb. through June, at
7 p.m.
Works with the Recreation Department in planning, arranging and coordinating the
City’s Independence Day Parade and July 4 celebration in Shepherd Park.
# Municipal Building Authority Meets on 4th Mondays in January and July at 7:15 p.m.
Advises Administration and Council regarding construction of certain municipal
facilities.
# Personnel Board Meetings are held on request
Hears some City employee’s grievances.
# Planning Commission Meets 2nd Monday of each month, at 7:30 p.m.
Advises City Council regarding property rezonings and the planning of new
developments.
# Recreation Advisory Board Meets 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m.
Advises City Council and the Recreation Department regarding all recreational
programming.
# Recycling and Environmental Conservation Commission Meets on 3rd Wednesdays
of January, March, June, August, October
Advises City Council regarding all matters of recycling and conservation of resources
within the community, and conducts ongoing informational programming for residents
in conjunction with the Department of Public Works.
# Sports Commission Meetings are held on request
Resolves issues related to Recreation Department sports programs.
Citizen volunteers are officially thanked, and honored, by the City for their vital
contributions at the annual Boards and Commissions Dinner.
The value of participation in City Council Meetings
Oak Park residents attend meetings of their City Council for a variety of reasons, all of
which amount to either actively or passively taking part in the municipal governmental
process.
Some simply wish to observe how their representatives conduct official City Business.
Others address Council about City-related matters that concern them, topics that may or may
not be agendized. Private citizens often help to initiate official action by articulating ideas
or opinions at Council Meetings. Council, whenever it deliberates a decision, considers all
input contributed by citizens.
Knowledge of the following basic facts will help residents participate in City Council
Meetings:
# When and where meeting are held: Regular Council Meetings are scheduled at 7:30
p.m. on the first and third Mondays of every month, except when holidays or special
observances require changes. Schedule adjustments are announced via OPTV-15 and, if
decided far enough in advance, in the Oak Park Report. Council Chambers are in City
Hall, 13600 Oak Park Blvd. (at the corner of Coolidge).
# Meeting agendas: All of the business and discussion items that have been scheduled for
each meeting are listed, in the order they will be addressed, on an official agenda. Copies
are posted on the City’s web page, ci.oak-park.mi.us, and are available from a rack
inside the main entrance to Council Chambers.
# Citizen requests for items to be included on upcoming agendas: Private citizens can
that subjects of concern to them be added to an upcoming meeting’s agenda. Such
requests must be made in writing, addressed to the Mayor and City Council, and must be
received by the City Manager’s Office no later than noon on the Wednesday preceding
the meeting for which they are intended. These can be hand-delivered, or mailed to:
Administrative Office; 13600 Oak Park Blvd.; Oak Park, MI 48237. If Council places an
item on the agenda, the citizen who requested it will be notified by mail prior to the
meeting. These items are placed under the heading of “communications” on the Council
Meeting agenda.
# Procedural rules and guidelines:
1 - Citizens may address Council regarding items listed on the agenda as “public
hearings.” The Mayor, as Council’s presiding officer, indicates when during these
proceedings the discussion is opened to private individuals. Remarks presented
during public hearings must be confined to the specific subject of the hearing and are
limited to three minutes duration per speaker.
2 - Citizens wishing to address Council on any non-agendized topics may do during the “call
to the audience,” which immediately follows the completion of Council’s regular
business. Comments may deal with any subject related to the community. A three-minute
time limit per speaker also is in effect during this portion of the meeting. Before
addressing Council, speakers must be recognized by the Mayor. Each is required to
provide his or her address to the City Clerk prior to making any remarks. This
information may be given in writing to the Clerk.
Residents who attend
City Council Meetings
can communicate directly with Administrators –
as here with City
Manager James D. Hock
– as well as with Council
Members.
Autumn, 2004
The Oak Park Report
SSC
The essentials of voting – the essential form of participation
Registration is the enabling step
Because the right to vote is one of the cornerstones of American freedom, going to the
polls on Election Day is considered the most important of all kinds of citizen
participation. Although it is fundamental, however, this right doesn’t automatically
belong to every citizen in every election. An enabling step is required.
Simply stated, in order to cast a ballot, you must be registered. Thankfully, it is a
simple procedure that takes just a few minutes. There are only three criteria. You must
be: 1- a citizen of the United States; 2- at least 18 years old by the date of the next
General Election; 3- a resident of Michigan and the city or township where you wish to
vote.
State law stipulates that you must be registered at least 30 days prior to any election in
which you plan to participate. Once your name is added to the registration rolls you
won’t have to repeat the step unless you subsequently change your name or your address
of record. Oak Park residents can register to vote at any of the following locations:
# The City Clerk’s Office, which is in City Hall, 13600 Oak Park Blvd.
# Any Secretary of State branch office
# The Oakland County Clerk’s Office, in the County Center at 1200 N. Telegraph
Rd. in Pontiac
# Any armed forces recruitment office
There are two additional options:
#The Secretary of State’s “Renewal by Mail” program allows Michigan residents to
register by mail at the same time they renew the driver’s licenses by mail.
#Registration via mail, by sending to the City Clerk’s Office completed voter
registration applications which have been delivered directly to them by persons who are
working on voter registration drives. (These completed forms also can be taken in person
to the City Clerk’s Office.)
The office’s direct-dial telephone number is 248-691-7540.
Making the election ballot count
Citizens are reminded of this obvious fact dozens of times before every election – the only
way to make your right to vote count is by actually going to the polls and casting a ballot.
Yet, every election, a surprising number of eligible voters don’t bother to do so. Perhaps
these folks somehow believe that “it’s just too much trouble.”
Of course that is a poor excuse, and it isn’t even remotely valid in municipalities such as
Oak Park. In this City, the voting process is organized and equipped to assure the maximum
possible convenience for residents at every precinct. A team of election workers, trained and
supervised by the City Clerk’s office, is stationed at every polling location to assist and
direct voters through every step. In addition, Oak Park has implemented state-of-the-art
technology in user-friendly voting machines.
The procedure
Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day and you may vote at any time within
that time frame. In fact, anyone who is in line at 8 p.m. will be allowed to vote.
Once you enter your neighborhood’s polling location you will begin by filling out an
application and having your registration verified my matching it with a master roll for the
precinct. Then you will be issued a blank ballot form, a special marking pen and a secrecy
sleeve. You will take these to a voting booth that enables you to mark your choices in
complete privacy.
The actual voting is done on an optical scan machine that’s easy to understand and
actually is programmed to catch common voter mistakes, such as “over-voting” and “undervoting.” This gives voters an opportunity to correct any errors they’ve made.
Here’s how to indicate each of your selections on the ballot form:
Using the supplied marking pen, complete each arrow
that is pointing to one
of your choices. Make a heavy bold line so that the arrow looks like this
.
When you have finished marking all of your selections, you will place the ballot form
within the secrecy sleeve and take it to the precinct’s voting machine. There, you will
remove the ballot from the sleeve and insert it into a slot within which the choices you have
made are recorded. An election inspector who is stationed at the ballot box will provide any
assistance you require. Once you have entered the ballot form into the machine, this worker
will take the empty secrecy sleeve and you will exit.
Counting your vote
Speaking of “the count,” one of the advantages of the optical scan system is that it
provides virtually instantaneous results. (The machines also are programmed to recognize
and record write-in votes.) When the polls close, a printout of each precinct’s totals is
immediately available. An overall tally is established once all of the machines’ memory
packs are delivered to the City Clerk’s Office. These packs are inserted into a computer for
tabulation of city-wide results.
City Clerk Sandra K. Gadd (right) helps a resident join the voting rolls.
Election workers,
trained and supervised
by the City Clerk’s
office, are stationed at
every polling location
to assist voters.
Where residents vote:
City precinct locations
Polling places have been established throughout Oak Park according to a design
that emphasizes convenience for residents. These are easily-recognized buildings
that are as close as possible to voter neighborhoods.
Registered voters can determine the voting precincts in which they reside by
referring to the back of their registration cards, which are issued by the City Clerk’s
Office. Following are the addresses of all 18 Oak Park polling places:
Precinct
#1
#2
#3
#4
#5
#6
#7
#8
#9
#10
#11
#12
#13
#14
#15
#16
#17
#18
Location
Avery School, 14700 Lincoln
Federation Apartments, 15100 W. Ten Mile Road
Pepper School, 24301 Church
Oak Park Community Center, 14300 Oak Park Blvd.
John F. Kennedy School, 24200 Rosewood
Jackson Center, 23561 Rosewood
Key School, 23400 Jerome
Oak Park High School, 13701 Oak Park Blvd.
Einstein School, 14001 Northend
Lessenger School, 12901 Albany
Oak Park Community Center, 14300 Oak Park Blvd.
Clinton School, 22180 Parklawn
Pepper School, 24301 Church
Oak Park High School, 13701 Oak Park Blvd.
Norup Jr. High School, 14450 Manhattan
Clinton School, 22180 Parklawn
Jackson Center, 23561 Rosewood
Lincoln Towers, 15075 Lincoln
Voting if you can’t make it to the polls
Personal circumstances sometimes make it difficult, or even impossible, for some
individuals to get to the polls in-person on Election Day. However, in most cases they still
have an opportunity to participate in the process. A registered voter of the City of Oak Park
can obtain an absent voter ballot if he or she:
# Expects to be absent from the community the entire time the polls are open on
Election Day;
# Is physically unable to attend the polls without the assistance of another person;
# Is 60 years of age or older;
# Cannot attend the polls on Election Day because of religious beliefs.
The City Clerk’s Office maintains a list of eligible residents who wish to receive absentee
ballots for every regularly scheduled Primary and General Election. Registered voters can
arrange to have their names added to this listing by calling the office.
NOTE: Absentee voting is regulated by strict legal procedures. Complete information is
available from the City Clerk’s Office, 248-691-7544.
Deputy City Clerk Angela
Brunke (left) provides an
absent voter ballot for a
resident’s elderly relative.
The Oak Park Report
SSD
Autumn, 2004
Your elected officials:
How to contact representatives
at every level of government
Dozens of political science studies over the decades have unanimously found that federal and state elected officials do indeed take into serious
account the mail they receive from constituents. More recently of course, a huge volume of e-mail has been added to the thousands of messages
their offices receive.
The great majority of these Senators, Congressmen and State Legislators have full-time staffs that read and convey to them the gist – if not the
full complement – of what the public submits.
The proverbial bottom line is this: If you have something to say to a person who has been elected to represent you, by all means tell him or her
what that something is. Whether it’s a complaint, an opinion, an idea, a concern, a criticism, or a statement of support, the message will be
considered.
Obviously, the converse is true. If you don’t send your message, it simply cannot be taken into account.
In order to make it as easy as possible for Oak Park residents to communicate with their elected representatives, this special section provides the
following “contact points” for all levels of government. This is the most up-to-date information available. (Please note that future elections can
create changes to this listing.)
❋
❋
❋
City Council focuses exclusively on residents’ needs
Of all the important questions that are debated and decided in Washington, DC and
Lansing during any year, it is extremely rare for any of these issues to impact everyday life
in Oak Park nearly as strongly as the operations of municipal government.
At first glance that might sound like an overstatement. However, more than 32,000 people
in nearly 12,000 Oak Park households depend on their local government for such daily
essentials as police and fire protection, running water, well-maintained streets, recreation
and library facilities and programs, and many other services. Moreover, residents have an
ongoing opportunity to communicate directly with this level of government.
City Council, as the key element in the relationship between citizens and the quality and
quantity of services they are provided, is readily accessible to communication. The
municipal legislative body’s five members – the Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem and three other
Members – are individually and collectively focused exclusively on this community. Each
is a resident, elected by other residents from throughout Oak Park (all are elected at-large).
Council establishes the policies and priorities by which all aspects of resident services are
structured and delivered. Its lone direct employee is the City Manager, who oversees all
administrative operations. His employees are the directors of those departments which are
responsible for specific municipal services. In other words, City Council is elected to
Willie Horton
Councilman
Michael M. Seligson
Councilman
represent the entire population of Oak Park in determining what policies and procedures are
followed by the administrative operation.
So how do residents make their opinions known by Council Members? There are multiple
answers, including:
• By addressing Council at its regular meetings, which are scheduled on the first and third
Mondays of every month (unless rescheduled due to holidays);
• By mail, to 13600 Oak Park Blvd., Oak Park, MI 48237;
• Via e-mail – Mayor Naftaly, [email protected]; Mayor Pro Tem Frohlich –
[email protected]; Councilman Seligson – [email protected]; Councilman
Horton – [email protected]; Councilman Yousif – [email protected];
• By telephone, at 248-691-7410;
• By contacting the City Manager’s Office at the above number, where staff will relay
specific messages to Council;
• By service on a municipal Board or Commission (see previous page of this section).
City Council encourages all residents to voice their opinions and ideas by attending its
meetings, becoming members of Boards and Commissions, and sending mail and e-mail
messages.
Gerald E. Naftaly
Mayor
Arthur Frohlich
Mayor Pro Tem
Kirk Yousif
Councilman
The Federal Government
The State Legislature
All Oak Park residents, like all other Michigan citizens, are represented in Congress by two
U.S. Senators and one U.S. Representative. They are:
Oak Park residents are represented in Lansing by one State Senator and either of two State
Representatives (depending upon where they vote — assigned precinct numbers are shown
on voter registration cards). Persons in precincts 1 through 8, 10 through 15, plus17 and 18
are in District 27. Rep. Andy Meisner represents them. Those in precincts 9 and 16 are in
District 35. They are represented by Rep. Paul Condino. Here are the contact details:
State Senator Gilda Z. Jacobs
1015 Farnum Bldg.
Lansing, MI 48909
(517) 373-7888
[email protected]
State Rep. Andy Meisner
Senator
Carl Levin
Senator
Debbie Stabenow
Congressman
Sander Levin
269 Russell Senate Bldg.
Washington, DC 20510
(202) 224-6221
(313) 226-6020
senator@
levin.senate.gov
702 Hart Senate Bldg.
Washington, DC 20510
(202) 224-4822
(313) 961-4330
senator@
stabenow.senate.gov
2300 Rayburn House
Office Bldg.
Washington, DC 20510
(202) 225-4961
(248) 968-2025
www.house.gov/levin
Governor Jennifer Granholm
Can be contacted at: Office of the
Governor, Box 30013, Lansing, MI
48909. The phone number is (517)
335-7858.
County Government
N0799 House Office Bldg.
PO Box 30014
Lansing, MI 48909-7514
(517) 373-0478
[email protected]
All of Oak Park is now in County District 22.
(Until just a few years ago, two
commissioners represented different portions
of the City at the Oakland County level.)
Here is the communications information:
State Rep. Paul Condino
Commissioner Helaine Zack
N0799 House Office Bldg.
PO Box 30014
Lansing, MI 48909-7514
(517) 373-1788
[email protected]
County Service Center
Building 12 East
1200 N. Telegraph Rd.
Pontiac, MI 48341
(248) 858-0100
The Department of
Page
9
Public Works
248-691-7497
Rake “early, often” to assure
efficient DPW leaf collection
The Department of Public Works (DPW)
is several weeks into its 2004 leaf pickup
program and, while the system is proceeding according to plan, residents hold the key
to making it work as efficient as possible.
“We need cooperation from our citizens
from now until the process ends, Dec. 10,”
said Department Director William Bohlen.
“There are several elements involved.
Perhaps the most important of these is that
we want everyone to rake early and often.
That helps tremendously.
“Frequent raking of leaves to curbside
insures that they will be picked up when our
assigned truck makes its rounds in the
neighborhood. Residents who do rake often
and/or wait until late in the season come
across a problem if there is a relatively early
snowfall. When that happens we need to
plow the streets, which results in frozen
clumps of leaves ending up right back in the
yards where they fell.
“In addition, those households that cooperate in this way won’t have to deal with
needing to bag their leaves after Dec. 10.”
Following the program’s completion on
Dec. 17, residents who still have bagged
leaves on hand will have two options: 1)
hold onto those materials until yard waste
collection resumes the following spring; or
2) drop them off at the SOCRRA facility at
991 Coolidge (near 14 Mile Road) in Troy.
The DPW also asks residents not to:
$ Place bags of leaves in the streets;
$ Put tree limbs in the piles they rake to
curbside;
$ Place lawn clippings in these piles.
The same leaf collection process that has
proven most effective in the past several
autumns is in effect this year, Bohlen said.
❋
“We have a truck assigned to each of five
sections of the City,” he said. “Through the
remainder of October, because of the typically heavy leaf-fall during this period, residents can expect to see the truck assigned to
their area a average of once per week.
During the remainder of the season, the
average will be once every two weeks.
“The department tracks these routes and
trucks will not start working their assigned
areas again until the entire city has been picked
up in the current round. This ensures that no
area of the community will get extra pickups.
“Meanwhile, it’s well worth repeating
that residents will make the DPW’s efforts
work much better for all of us if they follow
our recommendation: rake early and often!”
Anyone with questions about the leaf collection program can obtain answers by calling the department at 248-691-7497.
❋
Residents help make the leaf collection
p rogram work best by doing this
frequently throughout autumn.
❋
On Page 10 ➠
First-ever Library
Board of Directors
begins its service
Story Time sessions
for pre-schoolers
scheduled in Nov.
What to do, and what to expect,
when a water main break occurs
We all know winter as the season of Christmas, New Years, snow and sub-freezing temperatures. Because of the sometimes extremely cold weather, it’s also the season of more
frequent water main breaks.
Neither residents nor the Department of Public Works can prevent such incidents, of course,
but private citizens can play a role in helping assure prompt repairs. DPW Director William
Bohlen provided The Oak Park Report with the following guidelines for reporting suspected
breaks and dealing with the aftermath.
“Residents definitely can help out by calling in any potential water main break,” he said.
“This ensures that the response will start as
soon as possible. During regular department
Holiday rubbish
working hours (7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.), please
call 248-691-7497 to see if we are aware of
pickup details
the situation.
It’s one of the most frequent questions
“If you discover a possible break during
called into the DPW: Will the trash pick any other time period, please contact the
up schedule be changed because of the
Public Safety Department’s non-emergency
(fill-in-the-blank) holiday? Because the
number: 248-691-7447. The dispatch desk
information is important for both resiwill then alert DPW officials and they will
dents and the City’s trash collection coninvestigate.”
tractor, the department will announce all
According to Bohlen, it normally takes
holiday plans in advance via the Oak
from 4 to 6 hours from the time a main break
is reported until the resumption of water
Park Report and OPTV-15.
service to affected homes. Once repairs are
Here are the details for the remainder
completed, residents likely will need to
of 2004:
flush some rusty water out of their struc$ Thanksgiving – Rubbish collection
ture’s piping.
will be delayed one day. This means that
“Because main breaks often result in rust
The pickup slated for Thursday, Nov.
getting into the system, it’s a good idea to
25, will be conducted Friday, Nov. 26,
run a laundry tub or bathtub for about 15 to
and the normal Friday collection will be
20 minutes after the water flow is restored,”
on Saturday.
he said. “By following this flushing guide$ Christmas Eve – City off i c e s
line, you can prevent particles of rust from
always
are closed on both Dec. 24 and 25,
subsequently clogging the screens on your
but rubbish collection will not be delayed
faucets throughout the home.”
on the 24th. Residents with a Friday pickHomeowners who experience water main
up should place their refuse at curbside as
breaks in front of their homes during the
usual on Christmas Eve day. The schedwinter can expect landscape restoration sevule will not be affected on Christmas Day
eral months in the future. If no concrete
because it falls on a Saturday.
work is needed, the disturbed area will be
leveled and seeded and/or sodded by May of
$ New Year’s Eve – Exactly the same
the following spring. Any required concrete
facts as for Christmas Eve: No delay!
repairs normally can be expected by mid or
Residents with a Friday pickup should
late summer, but could be finished sooner if
place their refuse at curbside as usual.
the DPW’s contractor is available.
Snow plowing procedure is explained
Most folks would claim that it’s much too soon to start discussing how we will deal with the
coming winter’s snowfalls. However, DPW officials are not only talking about the subject,
they’re describing their plans to the people who most need the information: Oak Park’s residents.
“Our preparations for snow and ice control are already in full swing,” said DPW Director
William Bohlen. “This is the time to begin reminding everyone in the community how we
handle our plowing and salting services and what everyone should do during snow
emergencies.
“During the beautiful fall season no one actually likes to think about snow storms, but we
definitely have to. We know that being prepared and understanding the system makes it
much easier for residents to cope with big snowfalls when they hit.”
Bohlen explained that snowplow service on any given street depends upon whether it is
classified as “major” or “minor.” The distinction isn’t a put-down to local residential streets
– it is a matter of higher or lower traffic volumes based upon how many residents use the
roads on a daily basis. Examples of major streets are Coolidge, Scotia, Church, Lincoln and
Oak Park Boulevard. Examples of minor streets are Parklawn, Oneida, Beverly and Elgin.
Following is a review of the policies governing snow removal and/or salting, and the
City’s snow emergency procedures:
$ Plowing begins when snowfall levels reach an average of two inches citywide. Major
streets are service first, then secondary feeder streets. The goal always is to service every
street in the city. However, if favorable weather conditions are predicted, not all streets will
be plowed so long as the accumulation is no more than about two inches.
$ Salting commences on major streets as snow or ice begins to accumulate and hazardous road conditions develop. As in the case of plowing, major streets take precedence.
$ Snow emergencies generally are declared when accumulations of snow exceed six
inches in depth, or if measurable amounts of ice are present. When a snow emergency is
announced, all vehicles are to be removed from the street and parked on private property or
the city-established emergency parking lots.
“Whenever a snow emergency is declared, the DPW will plow all streets from curb to
curb,” Bohlen said. “This effort is what makes it so important for vehicles to be removed
from curbside as soon as possible. Our plows cannot do nearly as thorough a job if they are
blocked by vehicles that are parked on the street.
“Everyone should know that failure to move a vehicle can result in a ticket from Public
Safety and, possibly, impounding of the vehicle. However, we don’t emphasize those possibilities because the main motivation is for residents to help themselves and their neighbors.”
Snow emergency declarations are posted on OPTV-15 and the City’s website.
Announcements also are sent to Channel 2, 4 and 7 and radio stations WJR-760 and WWJ-950.
Expanded recycling
Oak Park residents now can add more paper items than ever before to their
curbside bins, the DPW has announced. The SOCRRA Material Recovery Facility
now accepts junk mail, office paper, computer paper, paperback books, shredded
paper and several other items that had been refused until equipment improvements recently were completed. In addition to this expansion, the instructions for
preparing paper items for the recycling bins have been simplified. With the exception of shredded paper, all of the newly allowed paper products can be mixed
together in the same brown paper grocery bag. Residents are asked to place
shredded paper into a see-through plastic bag, then tie it shut before placing it
into the bin.
The Department of
Page
10
Library Services
248-691-7480
Library Board of Directors
is appointed by Council
When a very old state law was invoked last spring to help balance the City’s 2004-2005
General Fund Budget, City Council was required to create a new official administrative body –
Oak Park’s first-ever Library Board of Directors. It comes as no surprise that the organization’s
initial appointed members have had very close ties to the facility for many years.
The panel is empowered to adopt by-laws, rules and regulations and with “exclusive
control of the expenditure of all moneys collected to the credit of the library fund.” It also
holds authority in personnel and compensation matters.
The five appointees:
$ Chairperson Sharon Chudnow, a long-time resident who had served for years as
Chair of the Library Advisory Board.
$ Vice-Chairperson Irma B. Watson, who is Chair of the Friends of the Oak Park
Library.
$ Secretary Larry Wember, a former Director of the Oak Park Library and member of
the Library Advisory Board, and current member of the Arts and Cultural Commission.
$ Council Member Arthur Frohlich, an Oak Park resident for more than four decades
and for many years City Council’s representative on the Library Advisory Board.
$ City Manager James D. Hock, Oak Park’s chief administrator and, of course, a
resident of the city.
The law in question, Michigan Act 164 of 1877, authorizes municipalities to levy a tax of
up to one mill for the purpose of providing their citizens with free public libraries and
reading rooms. As it relates to Oak Park’s current fiscal year budget, the single mill is
generating $623,000; revenue that, supplemented by a General Fund subsidy of some
$190,000, is keeping the Library operating as it always has.
In fact, no other municipal services had to be cut, either, because of the one mill addition.
And that was a very likely step had the increase not been effected, according to Hock.
“It was clear that some significant service cuts would have to be made unless we could
identify an additional source of income,” he said. “It came down to either using Act 164 to
maintain our Library and other municipal services, or having to cut back.
“The decision was made much easier because of all the positive input we received from
residents. Members of the Library Advisory Board, the Friends of the Library and the Arts
and Cultural Commission strongly supported continuing the Library’s operation at the
current high level. All of these residents are volunteers from throughout the community.”
Library hours
Monday through Thursday: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Fridays and Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Closed on Sundays
Council opposes annexation continued from page 1
“Two facts must be considered. First, Bridgewater conducted the annexation effort –
not the City of Oak Park. The City has not initiated any such action involving any of the
properties that have been, or might be, annexed from the township. In other words, the
owners petitioned for this action because they believe that becoming part of Oak Park
would benefit them.
“Second, agreements to help offset associated expenses have been met by the owners
of all of the properties that already have been annexed. Simply put, everyone else who
petitioned for annexation has paid an equitable amount of the costs.
“Bridgewater’s refusal to do so is a compelling reason for the residents of Oak Park
to deny the proposal to annex Bridgewater’s property.”
Mayor Naftaly cited the following language within the Council resolution:
The City Council hereby determines the annexation of the Bridgewater Apartments at
the Nov. 2, 2004 General Election, unless and until agreement can be reached with
respect to reimbursement to the City of expected costs, expenses and revenue losses…is
not in the best interest of the City…
The City Council urges Oak Park residents to vote “no” on (City Proposal) Ballot
Question
2004-01, the annexation of Bridgewater Apartments.
Voters also will find another question in this section of the ballot: Proposal #2004-02,
which asks whether Lincoln Woods Apartments should be annexed from the township.
There is no Council recommendation related to this proposal. In fact, there is also no
purpose in voting at all on the issue, because the property involved is included within
the Act 425 procedure explained above. The proposal appears because the ballot was
printed months before the agreement effort moved forward.
“A vote either for or against 2004-02 would have no effect because Lincoln Woods is
within the scope of the Act 425 action,” Mayor Naftaly said. “It’s moot, but we want to
make sure all of our residents understand that fact in advance.”
On Page 11 ➠
Recreation’s menu of
upcoming classes for
adults and youngsters
Registration underway
for trips available to
families and teenagers
Author visit will feature poet/teacher
A metro-area poet and teacher will discuss her recently-published book when the Library
hosts her author visit Nov. 18.
Marie Henry, whose short collection of poetry was published by Nlandu Press and printed last March, will speak in a cost-free program that is scheduled at 7 p.m. All residents are
invited to attend.
The book, titled “Slices,” is an 80-page collection of her poetry. It features Ms. Henry’s
“I Want a President,” the poem for which she received a Golden Poet Award in 1989. The
collection’s themes include family, war, prayers, mentoring, spice of life, and America,
according to her media materials.
Ms. Henry, who was born and raised in Detroit, earned two degrees at Mercy College
after graduating from Cass Technical High School. She also completed course work at the
University of Michigan, Wayne State University, Eastern Illinois University and the
Georgetown University Law Center.
She has more than 25 years of experience teaching in urban, suburban and parochial schools.
Story Times set throughout November
Registration is continuing for a series of morning Story Time sessions scheduled every
Tuesday in November, Library officials have announced.
The cost-free program, which features songs, crafts, fingerplays and – naturally – stories,
is designed for children ages 2-5. Each session will run from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m.
Participants must be pre-registered because of attendance limits and the exceptional
popularity of Story Time. His can be accomplished either in-person or by telephone. All
children must be accompanied by an adult.
Following are the themes planned for each morning session: Nov. 2 – Vote! (Mayor
Gerald E. Naftaly might be a guest reader); Nov. 9 – Fun Day; Nov. 16 – Monkey Around;
Nov. 23 – Thanksgiving; Nov. 30 – Fabulous Fairy Tales.
In addition, two evening versions of Story Time have been announced. The rules and the
components are all the same, but the sessions are slated from 7 to 7:45 p.m. On Nov. 15, the
theme will be Three Excellent Eggs. On Dec. 13, it will be Winter is on the Way!
Library officials also are celebrating Children’s Book Week during the month with a
paperback book swap for youngsters ages 4-15. The theme of the special week is “Let’s
Book!” The swap, which will put that concept into action, is scheduled during two time
periods Nov. 18: 3:30-4:30 p.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m.
The procedure is as straightforward as the event’s title suggests. Participants will simply
bring used paperbacks (that are in decent condition) from home to trade with other
children/teens.
Further information about any of these programs can be obtained by calling 248-691-7480.
Final 2004 Book Club programs
The Oak Park Library’s Book Club has
announced its two final programs for this year.
On Nov. 3, members will discuss the book
“Children of the Storm,” by Elizabeth Peters. On
Dec. 1, the club will hold its year-end party and
decide its book selections for 2005. Both events
will start at 7 p.m.
All residents are welcome to join the group,
which meets at the adult reference desk on the
first Wednesday evening of every month. Further
information is available by calling Adult Services
Librarian Beth Tompkins at 248-691-7480.
Agreement brings expansion continued from page 1
This is a backup agreement in the present situation, in the event the 425 agreement is ever
determined to be void. It is simpler than the 425, because all we do is agree to the annexation
of the properties to Oak Park and to the sharing of tax revenues, plus ensure that Oak Park
receives state revenue sharing moneys based on the population in the transferred property.
“These steps will immediately become effective upon being filed with the Oakland
County Clerk’s Office and the Michigan Secretary of State’s Office.”
The affected territory covers half a square mile and includes approximately 1,000
residents. The previously-annexed properties (two elections in 2003) included nearly 1,100
residents.
Mayor Gerald E. Naftaly called the expansion both fitting in its timing and historically
ironic.
“The addition of this land is definitely appropriate, in that it occurs as we are about to
begin our 60th anniversary year,” he said. “When the movement toward cityhood was
underway, many residents of what was the Village of Oak Park believed that the area should
be included in the new charter. However, a majority of landowners within the territory that
now is comprised within the 425 agreement voted against inclusion.
“That’s where the element of irony has become so apparent. Those landowners blocked the
effort because they feared that being part of a city would mean paying higher property taxes
for inadequate citizen services. In contrast, the territory’s property owners of today aspired to
live in Oak Park in order to receive vastly improved municipal services at lower tax rates.”
The Department of
Page
11
Recreation
248-691-7555
On Page 12 ➠
Senior Roundup:
numerous trips and
a new dance class
Registration underway
for youth basketball
leagues and clinics
Some hot classes highlight department’s cool-weather lineup
Every time the seasons change, the Recreation Department proves that it is the same great
resource for residents it always has been. This autumn and winter certainly will be no exception. The menu of classes includes some of the hottest – in terms of popularity – that have
been offered in recent years.
Registration for these activities is underway at the Community Center, 14300 Oak Park
Blvd., and also is available on-line, as detailed in the adjacent story. Office hours are 8 a.m.
to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays.
Following are profiles of classes for adults and youngsters:
Adult programs
$ Cardio-Core Conditioning – Description: Includes 30 minutes of low impact cardio
conditioning, followed by another half-hour of weight training and abdominal conditioning
that incorporates Pilates techniques. Schedule: Classes are slated on Mondays and/or
Wednesdays, beginning Nov. 15: $40 for once a week; $72 for twice a week.
$ Fitness Factory Total Body Conditioning – Description: Participants burn calories
and build muscle via joint-friendly training that is designed to be appropriate for all fitness
levels. Schedule: Wednesdays at 7 p.m., starting Jan. 12. Fee: $66 for 12-week session.
$ Fitness Factory Abs/gluts/Thighblaster – – Description: A variety of exercises for the
abs, lower back, gluts and legs, designed to tone and strengthen the midsection and lower
body. Schedule: Saturdays at 8 a.m., starting Jan. 8. Fee: $66 for 12-week session.
$ Fitness Factory Kickbox Mix — Description: Non-contact workouts that combine
martial arts and boxing techniques with cardio movements and toning intervals. Students
work on core muscles and exercises provide natural stress relief. Schedule: Mondays and/or
Wednesdays for 12-week session, starting Jan. 10. Fees: $66 for one a week; $108 for twice
a week.
$ Chicago Style Steppin’ — Description: A unique style of stepping that originated – no
surprise — in Chicago and has become popular in metro-area dance clubs. Schedule:
Tuesdays at 6 p.m., starting Nov. 9. Fee: $35 for five weeks.
$ Ballroom Dance — Description: “Offers instruction in the latest steps, as well as timehonored classic favorites.” (two skill levels offered) Schedule: Thursdays at 6 p.m., starting
Nov. 11. Fee: $35 for five weeks.
$ Hustle Aerobics — Description: Students stay in shape while learning all of the
newest hustle routines from a professional instructor. Schedule: Wednesdays and Thursdays
at 8:30 p.m., starting Nov. 10. Fee: $25 for six weeks.
$ Family Hustle Aerobics — Description: Features the same specialty dancing approach
to fitness as the regular Hustle Aerobics class, but it is geared – as stated – for joint
participation by families. Schedule: Fridays at 6:30 p.m., starting Nov. 5. Fees: $22 for
adults and $12 for children for the six-week session. (Discounts are available.)
$ Yoga — Description: Relaxation and stress-relieving meditation techniques in a course
designed both for beginners and continuing students. Schedule: Mondays at 7:45 p.m.,
starting Nov. 22. Fee: $40 for the eight-week session.
$ Congolese Dancing — Description: MBONGI Dance Theatre Project, Inc. teaches
social, traditional and modern techniques of central African dancing, as well as rhythms,
singing and the history that goes with it. Schedule: Mondays and Wednesdays at 7 p.m.,
starting Oct. 25. Fee: $80 for five weeks (two classes weekly).
$ Congolese NGOMA Drumming — Description: MBONGI Dance Theatre Project,
Inc. teaches social, traditional and modern percussion techniques (and related history) from
central Africa. Schedule: Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m., starting Oct. 26. Fee: $80 for five weeks.
Youth classes
$ Dance by Artistry in Motion — Description: Instruction for students age 3 and older
from professionals at one of the metro area’s most respected dance programs. Schedule:
Saturday mornings; specific hours depend on age groups (a 26-week session began Sept. 18.
Some openings might remain). Fee: $140 for the session.
$ Jump-a-Rama Gymnastics — Description: Instruction designed for children ages 318 who want to learn and improve gymnastic skills. Progressive gymnastics are taught,
aimed at increasing students’ strength, coordination and confidence. Schedule: Thursdays
from 4-7 p.m. (specific hours for respective age groups), starting Nov. 4. Fee: $55 for
beginning, intermediate and advanced classes.
$ Karate Kids – “The challenge of the Dragons’ Eight fighting system; instruction
geared for kids age 8 and older.” Schedule: Tuesdays ands Thursdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m.,
starting Oct. 12. Fee: $48 for 16 classes.
$ Little Chefs — Description: Children ages 6-10 learn about kitchen safety and how to
prepare some special treats. Schedule: Wednesdays from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., starting Nov. 3.
Fee: $30 for five weeks.
Further information about any of these classes can be obtained by calling 248-691-7555.
Residents can register on-line
for many Recreation activities
Signing up for Recreation programs has become even easier for those who use the
Internet. As of this autumn, residents now can register on-line by:
$ Going to the City’s web page at www.ci.oak-park.mi.us and clicking on the
“activity registration link, or going directly to the on-line web page at
http://active.com/browse/oakpark recreation;
$ Filling out the required information, and developing your customer ID and
password;
$ Clicking on the activities for which you wish to register;
$ Paying with a credit card.
Residents then can print their receipt for payment and they subsequently will receive
an “instant” e-mail confirming the enrollment. Questions about the procedure should be
directed to 248-691-7555.
Teen, family trips scheduled
A pair of upcoming Recreation trips illustrate the variety of programming offered by the
department year-round: Students in grades 6 through 10 are invited to join in the last journey
of autumn 2004 to one of the Midwest’s most famous amusement parks. Families are invited
to join in one of the first traditional programs of winter.
The teen trip will head to Cedar Point Oct. 23, with the department bus leaving the
Community Center at 9 a.m. and returning at 11 p.m. The cost is $52 per person. According
to department officials, this definitely will be the last of this year’s series of excursions to
the famous Ohio site.
The family trip, set Dec. 4, will head for the Toledo Zoo for a tour of that facility’s annual
“Lights Before Christmas display.” The bus will leave at 3:30 p.m. and return at 9:30 p.m.
Costs are $9.50 for children ages 2-11 and $11.50 for kids 11 and older. There is no charge
for that age 2 and younger.
“It’s a fantastic light show throughout the zoo that is given a top rating by everyone who
has seen it,” said Recreation Director Roy Srini. “In addition, selected animal exhibits will
be open.”
A family trip also has been scheduled to the Detroit Lions game versus the Arizona
Cardinals on Dec. 5. The cost is $50 per person, which includes admission and
transportation. Further details about this event and all other department programs are
available at 248-691-7555.
Post-class fun
These kids are enjoying a table game at Norup Junior High School during the first
session of the After School Youth Program at that location. Seven future four-week
sessions will be offered during the 2004-2005 school year, at a cost of $20 each for
participation. And there are plenty of other activities for the youngsters, ranging
from basketball and pool to arts and crafts and computer lab. Session two is scheduled Nov. 2 through 24. Registration is available at the Recreation office in the
Community Center. Similarly, the popular, cost-free After School Teen Center at
Roosevelt Middle School also has opened. Residents ages 10 through 15 can participate in pool, basketball, board games, foosball, arts and crafts and other activities
between 3 and 5:30 p.m. every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Anyone who is
interested in joining the fun should come to the Recreation office with a parent, sign
a membership registration form and have his or her photo taken. Details about both
programs are available at 248-691-7555.
Coming
Events
Summer, 2004
50-Up Club activities
Oct. 20
Oct. 22
Oct. 27
Nov. 3
Nov. 10
Nov. 17
Nov. 22
Nov. 23
Nov. 24
Nov. 25-26
Dec. 1
Dec. 8
Dec. 15
Dec. 22
Dec. 29
Blood pressure check
Senior play
Blood pressure check
Blood pressure check
Blood pressure check
Blood pressure check
Health Fair and flu shots
Traveling lunchtime
Blood pressure check
Thanksgiving break
Blood pressure check
Blood pressure check
Blood pressure check
Blood pressure check
Blood pressure check
Faster than a
speeding turkey
This race, despite its name, is strictly for
humans. It’s the annual 5k run that’s known
as the Gobble-Gobble Gallop, scheduled by
Recreation officials at 9 a.m. Nov. 6.
Runners of all ages are welcome to compete
in the event. Registration is available now
and will continue until 15 minute before the
race starts. Potential entrants are urged not
to wait, though: runners who register before
Nov. 5 will be entered into a drawing for a
$30 gift certificate toward the purchase of –
you guessed it – a turkey. T-shirts will be
given to the first 80 registrants. The
winners, runners-up and third-place
finishers in all divisions of the 2004 GobbleGobble Gallop will receive awards.
Senior Roundup
New western dance class and a
variety of trips are highlighted
The Oak Park Senior Center is has been described as “always active.” The description has
been proven accurate every season of every year.
Take, for example, the final quarter of 2004. Programming at the center will range from
computer and dance classes to a variety of trips.
One of the featured classes has become increasingly popular over the past several years,
while the other is a new opportunity.
The 50-Up Club offers four-week sessions of beginner computer instruction, designed for
those who have minimal prior computer experience or none at all. Students learn the basics
of word processing, how to surf the Internet, and how to set up a free e-mail account. The
class is held on Wednesday mornings each session. Interested residents can call 248-6917577 for complete information regarding
dates, times and fees for the next series.
Seven weeks of instruction in countrywestern line dancing was introduced starting
Oct. 7. However, residents still can enjoy
participating through Nov. 18. Walk-ins pay
just $4 per meeting. The class runs from
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Thursdays in the
Community Center.
Four trips are offered during November
by the 50-Up Club. Here’s a brief rundown:
$ An Ontario winery tour set from 8:30
a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 3. The fee is $42.
$ An evening at the Fisher Theater in
Detroit Nov. 4. The play is “The Full
Monty.” Round-trip transportation will
leave at 7 p.m. and return at 11 p.m. The fee
is $43.
$ A two-day, one night trip to the Soaring
Eagle Casino in Mt. Pleasant Nov. 11 and
12. Participants will attend a performance
That’s what Recreation officials
by famed comedian Bill Cosby.
call the primary scary feature of their
$ A week-long journey via motor-coach
annual Halloween Spooktacular, and
to Myrtle Beach and Charleston, South
this scenario is just one of the
Carolina. Oceanfront rooms will be
“shocks” waiting for those who join
available and many meals shows and tours
the fun. The 2004 event, exclusively
will be included. The trip runs Nov. 14-20.
for children ages 5-13, is scheduled
Complete details about all of these
from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 28 in
activities can be obtained by calling 248Shepherd Park. “Our aim in having it
691-7577.
a few days ahead of Halloween is to
offer younger residents both this
popular program and a chance to
trick or treat on the actual eve,”
explained Recreation Director Roy
Srini. The program, which will
include other activities, plus
refreshments and candy bags for the
kids, is free of charge. All
participating children must be
accompanied by an adult. No one will
be allowed to get in line after 8 p.m.
The staging area will be the
Northfield Street parking lot on the
A new country-western line dance
north side of the park.
class will continue Nov. 18.
Haunted hayride
Flag football signups
Some openings probably are available for boys 9 through 11 to participate in
this flag football competition, Recreation officials have announced. Games began
early in October for the travel league which is co-sponsored by the National
Football League. Teams travel between Oak Park, Ferndale, Southfield and Royal
Oak Township. The fee is $52, and includes an NFL team jersey for each player.
From basic instruction to league play,
the focus will turn to youth basketball
Hundreds of thousands of youngsters all over the country dream about someday playing
professional basketball. This is true in Oak Park, of course, and while there’s certainly no
guarantee they’ll live that fantasy as adults, local kids actually will have a chance to play
NBA and WNBA hoops as soon as this coming winter.
To be a bit more specific, youngsters can register through Nov. 19 for Junior NBA boys’
basketball and Junior WNBA girls’ basketball leagues. Practices are projected to begin in
late November and games will be played from Jan. 8 until sometime in March.
Five leagues, established by age groups, are being offered to boys. These are: “Bronze,”
ages 9-10; “Silver Recreational,” ages 11-12; “Silver Premier,” also ages 11-12, but a highly-competitive league for which only team registration is available; “Gold,” ages 13-14; and
“Classic,” ages 15-18 (participants must be in high school).
There will be four age divisions in Junior WNBA play – “Bronze,” ages 9-10; “Silver
Recreational,” ages 11-12; “Gold,” ages 13-14; and “Classic,” ages 15-18 (as in boys’ play,
participants must be in high school).
Fees for all age divisions in both boys and girls leagues are $40 for players registered by
Nov. 5 and $50 for those who sign up after that date.
Recreation officials also have scheduled a program for residents who are too young and
not yet physically prepared for league competition. The emphasis will be on teaching fundamentals during the five-week Hoop Dreams Basketball Clinic at Roosevelt Middle
School.
All classes are set on Saturdays for the program, which will include some actual games,
as well as plenty of basic instruction. The registration deadline is Jan. 5 for the first session,
which runs from Jan.8 through Feb. 5. Following are schedule details for the two age groups
for which it’s designed:
$ Grasshopper (ages 5-6) — Class #1: 9-9:50 a.m.; class #2: noon-12:50 p.m.
$ Hoopsters (ages 7-8) – Class #1: 10-10:50 a.m.; class #2, 11-11:50 a.m.
The fee for both divisions is $25, which also covers the cost of a jersey.
Special lunch guest
America’s most famous jolly elf will be on hand at the Community
Center Dec. 11 for a luncheon with some of his biggest little fans. It’s the
annual Lunch with Santa program. Children ages 1 through 8 and their
parents are invited for a get-together with the world’s top sleigh driver
starting at 11:30 a.m. Each youngster will receive a small gift and
have his or her picture taken with Santa. The fee for those who
register in advance is $5, while the fee at the door is $7.
Additional information can be obtained by calling 248-691-7555.
The Oak Park Report
Published by
The City of Oak Park
The City of Oak Park
13600 Oak Park Blvd.
Oak Park, MI 48237
Mayor
Gerald E. Naftaly
Mayor ProTem
Arthur Frohlich
Council
Willie Horton
Michael M. Seligson
Kirk Yousif
Office of The
City Manager
Main city number: 248-691-7400
Web page address: ci.oak-park.mi.us
email address: [email protected]