HomeMy WebLinkAboutResolutions - 2005.09.22 - 28021a
MISCELLANEOUS RESOLUTION #05190
BY: Marcia Gershenson, District #17
IN RE: WEST NILE VIRUS FUND REIMBURSEMENT FOR PROJECT IN THE VILLAGE OF
BINGHAM FARMS - FISCAL YEAR 2005 ALLOCATION
TO THE OAKLAND COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Chairperson, Ladies and Gentlemen:
WHEREAS the Oakland County Board of Commissioners via
Miscellaneous Resolution #05061 approved the extension of the West Nile
Virus Fund for FY 2005; and
WHEREAS the Oakland County Board of Commissioners established a
West Nile Virus Fund Disbursement Policy per Miscellaneous Resolution
#03060 in an effort to assist cities, villages and townships (CVTs)
with mosquito control measures to prevent the spread of West Nile Virus
and to help protect the health, safety and welfare of the people of
Oakland County; and
WHEREAS pursuant to the Disbursement Policy, the Village of
Bingham Farms has submitted a resolution of authorization to the County
for reimbursement of expenses incurred in connection with an eligible
mosquito control project; and
WHEREAS the FY 2005 authorized amount of funding for the Village
of Bingham Farms is $487.70 from the West Nile Virus Fund as repayment
to the Village of Bingham Farms for expenses incurred in connection
with mosquito control projects.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Oakland County Board of
Commissioners approves the project submitted by the Village of Bingham
Farms as eligible for reimbursement from the West Nile Virus Fund.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Board authorizes the FY 2005
appropriation in the amount of $487.70 from the West Nile Virus Fund
(Account #90-210000-23030-9098) to repay the Village of Bingham Farms
for expenses incurred in connection with the mosquito control project,
once proper invoices are presented.
Chairperson, I move the adoption of the foregoing resolution.
L. BROOKS PATTERSON, OAKLAND COUNTY EXECUTIVE
HEALTH DIVISION
George J. Miller, MA., Manager
OAKLAND;
COUNTY MICHIGAN
DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES
August 9, 2005
Timothy J. Soave, Manager
Oakland County Fiscal Services Division
Executive Office Building
1200 North Telegraph Road, Department 403
Pontiac, Michigan 48341-0403
Dear Mr. Soave:
I am in receipt of a West Nile Virus fund reimbursement request from the Village
of Bingham Farms dated August 5, 2005. After having reviewed their
documentation, I find them in compliance with Oakland County Board of
Commissioners Miscellaneous Resolution 05061 and in compliance with at least
one of the four major categories for reimbursement. This letter will, therefore,
certify that all expenses submitted for reimbursement are for qualifying mosquito
control projects. Should you have any questions, please direct them to me at 248-
858-1410.
Sincerely,
OAKLAND COUNTY HEALTH DIVISION
Deparpint of HALnan Services
Ge—orgOf Miller, M.A.
Manaar/Health Officer
GJM:cjh
cc: Kathryn P. Hagaman
Clerk
Village of Bingham Farms
BLDG 36 EAST 1200 N TELEGRAPH RD DEPT 432 250 ELIZABETH LK RD 27725 GREENFIELD RD 1010 E WEST MAPLE RD
PONTIAC MI148341-0432 • PONTIAC MI 48341-1050 • SOUTHFIELD MI 48076-3625 • WALLED LAKE MI 48390-3588
" Ile.", • .-x• .-•/nn•n
Village of Bingham Farms
(OW
24255 Thirteen Mile Roac4 Suite 190
Bingham Farms, Michigan 48025
August 5, 2005
Mr. Timothy Soave
Manager, Oakland County Fiscal Services
1200 North Telegraph Rd. Dept. 403
Pontiac, MI 48341-0403
Re: West Nile Virus Fund Reimbursements
Dear Mr. Soave:
Pursuant to Oakland County Board of Commissioner Miscellaneous
Resolution (MR)05091, the Village of Bingham Farms hereby
requests reimbursement under Oakland County's West Nile Virus
Fund Program for expenses incurred in connection with an
eligible mosquito control activity by our Village.
Attached in support of this request are the following:
1. Attachment A: Project Description
2. Attachment B: Governing Body Resolution
3. Attachment C: Expense Invoices
The Village understands that the review and processing of this
reimbursement request will be governed by the provisions of MR
05091, and certifies that all expenses submitted for
reimbursement were incurred in connection with a qualifying
mosquito control project.
If you have any questions concerning this matter, please contact
the undersigned. Thank you for your assistance.
Sincerely,
c--
Kathryn P. Hagaman
Clerk
Office (248) 644-0044 • Fax (248) 644-3254
E-mail: bingham@mich.com Website: www.binghamfarrns.org
Village of Bingham Farms
24255 Thirteen Mile Road, Suite 190
Bingham Farms, Michigan 48025
RESOLUTION # 2005-22
AUTHORIZING WEST NILE VIRUS FUND EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT REQUEST
WHEREAS, upon the recommendation of the Oakland County Executive, the Oakland
County Board of Commissioners has established a West Nile Virus Fund Program to assist
Oakland County cities, villages and townships in addressing mosquito control activities; and
WHEREAS, Oakland County's West Nile Virus Fund Program authorizes Oakland
County cities, villages and townships to apply for reimbursement of eligible expenses incurred in
connection with personal mosquito protection measures/activity, mosquito habitat eradication,
mosquito larvidicing or focused adult mosquito insecticide spraying in designation community
green areas; and
WHEREAS, the Village of Bingham Farms, Oakland County, Michigan has incurred
expenses in connection with mosquito control activities believed to be eligible for reimbursement
under Oakland County's West Nile Virus Fund Program.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that this Council authorizes and directs its
Administrator, as agent for the Village of Bingham Farms, in the manner and to the extent
provided under Oakland County Board of Commissioner Miscellaneous Resolution 05091, to
request reimbursement of eligible mosquito control activity under Oakland County's West Nile
Virus Fund Program.
Dated: June 27, 2005
Signed:
Certified: 7762.5._
cc: County Commissioner, District 17.
Office (248) 644-0044 • Fax (248) 644-3254
E-mail: bingham@rnich.corn Website: www.bingharnfarms.org
VILLAGE OF BINGHAM FARMS
ATTACHMENT A - PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Village of Bingham Farms owns no land and therefore
determined the best way to protect is residents was through
education. In that light, the Village Newsletter contained
articles relative to the West Nile Virus and means to limit
exposure to mosquitoes.
Invoice
No. 6964
Amount
222.35
222.35 Sales Rep: AMY
Artistic Printing, Inc.
26040 W. Twelve Mile Road
Southfield, MI 48034
(248) 356-1004
Fax (248) 356-0270
Village of Bingham Farms
24255 Thirteen Mile Road, Suite 190
Bingham Farms MI 48025
Date 9/13/04
Customer P.O. No.
Description
The Bingham Farms Post, 11 x 17 Cream 60# Offset, 2 originals, printed 1 color front in 341 ink 1
color back in 341 ink
960 Fold 11x17
960 Hand marrying (sets)
480 Staple
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE !„,
' • ,“--/
Ancunt 71 •
I ,L
Approvsd ,
Check Sign2414) —7-77-17
76,
File Originals
The Bingham Farms Post - Fall
2004
Please pay from this invoice. TERMS: Net 30 Days
Past Due Invbius are subject to LATE PAYMENT SERVICE CHARGE
computed at 1-1/2% per month (18% ANNUAL PERCENTAGE RATE)
on past due arm:int. Thank yoLl
SUBTOTAL
TAX
SHIPPING
TOTAL 222,35
No. 7536
Date 1/3/05
Customer P.O. No.
Quantity Description Amount
41:—IJArtistic Printing, Inc.
26040 W. Twelve Mile Road
Southfield, MI 48034
(248) 356-1004
Fax (248) 356-0270
Village of Bingham Farms
24255 Thirteen Mile Road, Suite 190
Bingham Farms MI 48025
Invoice
500 The Bingham Farms Post, 11 x 17 Cream 60# Offset, printed 1 color front in 341 ink 1 color back
in 341 ink
500
500
109.16
Fold 11x17
Hand marrying (sets)
500 Newsletter insert pages 3-4, 8.5 x 11 Cream 60# Offset, printed 1 color front in 341 ink 1 color
back in 341 ink
65.61
ACCOLii .16 PAYKSLE
Amount 1/7`?„ 7
Approved
Approved by
Check Sigrr,i2)
Check Sign ,
Date Paid
Check #
File Originals
The Bingham Farms Post - Wint-
2005
Please pay from this invoice. TERMS: Net 30 Days
Past Due invos are subject to LATE PAYMENT SERV!CE CHARGE
computed at 1-1/21 ;-,,er month .,18% ANNUAL PERCENTAGE RATE)
on past t ue amount. Thank you!
Sales Rep: AMY SUBTOTAL
TAX
SHIPPING
TOTAL '74.77
174.77
No. 7990
Date 3/31/05
Customer P.O. No.
Quantity Description Amount
_Artistic Printing, Inc. ii :
26040 W. Twelve Mile Road
Southfield, MI 48034
(248) 356-1004 *:ECE1VED
Fax (248) 356-0270 APR 1 5 2005
Wei OF Nii&Ai FARMS
ROUTED TO: Village of Bingham Farms
24255 Thirteen Mile Road ; Suite 190
Bingham Farms MI 48025
Invoice
480 The Bingham Farms Post, 11 x 17 Cream 60# Offset, 2 originals, printed 1 color front in 341 ink 1
color back in 341 ink
960 Fold 11x17
960 Hand marrying (sets)
480 Staple
222.35
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE
FA/G# • 2.1.
Arnoun
Approved
Approved by
Check Signin'tt
Check Sign
/ Cate Paid 2,//`
Check #,/
File Originals
The Bingham Farms Post - Sorini
2005
Please pay from this invoice. TERMS: Net 30 Days
Past Due Invos are subject to LATE PAYMENT SERVICE CHARGE
computed at 1-112% per month (18% ANNUAL PERCENTAGE RATE)
on past due amount. Thank 'you!
Saies Rep: AMY SUBTOTAL
TAX
SHIPPING
TOTAL 222,35
222.35
Invoice
No. 8528
Quantity Description Amount
SUBTOTAL
TAX
SHIPPING
TOTAL
314.95
314.95
Artistic Printing, Inc.
26040 W. Twelve Mile Road
Southfield, MI 48034
(248) 356-1004
Fax (248) 356-0270
Village of Bingham Farms
24255 Thirteen Mile Road, Suite 190
Bingham Farms MI 48025
Date 7/1/05
Customer P.O. No.
480 The Bingham Farms Post, 11 x 17 Cream 60# Offset, 2 originals, printed 1 color front in 341 ink 1 222.35
color back in 341 ink
960 Fold 11x17
960 Hand marrying (sets)
480 Staple
500 Envelopes, Natural white 24# Classic Linen #10, printed 1 color front in PMS 341 ink 92_60
File Originals
The Bingham Farms Post -
Summer 2005
Please pay frun this invoice. TERMS: Net 30 Days
• Past Due Invoices are subject to LATE PAYMENT SERVICE CHARGE
computed at 1-1/2`Vc. per !Tont ,MNLJAL PEFICITAG 7 RATE)
on past due amount. Thank you
Sales Rep: AMY
THE LINGUA.'" FARMS PONT
Summer, 2005
VILLAGE ANNUAL ELECTION
SET FOR SEPT 13,2005
4
The Annual Village Election will take place on
Tuesday. September 13,2005 at Bingham Farms Elementary
School. The polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. 8:00 p.m.
This year, voters will elect a President and three
trustees. All terms are now four years as a result of recent
state legislation that requires Village elections to be held bi-
annually.
Candidates who have filed Nominating Petitions are:
President (Vote for not more than one)
Mary Jane Bauer
Trustees (Vote for not more than three)
Mel Enenson
Bill Freeman
Rodger Kesley
On the same ballot, voters will be asked to consider
ten (10) amendments to the Village Charter. The proposed
amendments are detailed in this newsletter. These changes
are necessary to reflect the passage of fifty (50) years since
the Charter was adopted in 1955. All of these amendments
are important to the conduct of Village business. Four of
them (D.E,Foit G) are "housekeeping matters", reflecting
that such functions as property assessment and the review of
assessments are now handled by other authorities, such as
Southfield Township.
The remaining six (6) amendments recognize that
the dollar limitations on such things as construction contracts
need to represent current economic values, substantially dif-
ferent from those in 1955.
In order to vote in the September elections, a resi-
dent must be a registered voter in the Village. A resident
may register at any Secretary of State office or at Southfield
Township. The Township is located at 18550 W. Thirteen
Mile Road, just west of Southfield Road.
The last day to register to vote in the September
election is August 15.
Should a registered voter decide to run for office as
a vvrite-in candidate, a Decimation of Intent form must be
filed with the Village Clerk's office no later than 4:00 p.m.
Friday, September 9. 2005. Forms are available at the Vil-
lage office. If this Notice is not filed, any votes for the write-
in candidate will not be counted.
COUNCIL ADOPTS
BALANCED BUDGET
The Village Budget has been set for Fiscal Year 2005-
2006 which begins July 1 and ends June 30.
Once again the Village has been
able to maintain the millage rate at 6.8
mills despite continued state cutbacks in
revenue sharing. Village Treasurer,
Karin Ludwick says "The Village is very ......_
fortunate this year to maintain the 6.8
mills as revenue sharing has fallen more
than 206/0 this past year alone. The fact
that the Village is debt-free has also enabled us to sustain taxes
at the current level."
The annual budget totals just under $1.8 million dollars.
BINGHAM FARMS
GENERAL FUND BUDGET
2005-2006
% Of Total
Administrative $431,685 24
Engineering 20,000 1
Appropriations-
Road Repairs 200,000 11
Library 97,152 6
Contingency 30,000 2
Public Safety 889,033 50
Legal 24,000 1
Rubbish 87,250 5
Total $ 1,779,120 100%
The major expenditures are:
1. Administrative Expenses cover costs associated with convert-
ing to the County's on-line tax system, planning consultants,
rent for Village offices, staff salaries and insurance costs. Two
staff members are now full tune and this line item now contains
the cost of benefits.
Road Repair expenses are based upon estimates for long-tam
road replacement programs and expenses for winter mainte-
nance.
3. Public Safety expenses are based on negotiated contracts
for police and fire services.
PROPOSED CHARTER REVISIONS
Ballot Question A
Shall the Village Charter, Chapter IL Section
2(1) which permits the Village to acquire by pur-
chase, gift or lease, personal property of a value not
to exceed $1000 for any public use or purpose within
the scope of its powers and to hold, manage, control,
sell or otherwise dispose of same without the ap-
proval of the electorate be amended by raising the
value limitation from $1000 to $10,000 and providing
that the Village may acquire or dispose of personal
property of a value exceeding $10,000 with the prior
approval of a majority vote of the electorate?
YES NO
This Charter amendment would raise the value limita-
tion for personal property from $1.000 to $ 1.0,000 and
not require a vote of the electorate. Also allcws for the
disposal of personal property without a vote of the
electorate.
Ballot Question B
Shall the Village Charter, Chapter II, Section
2(2) which permits the Village to acquire personal
property of any value for any public use or purpose
within the scope of its powers and to hold, sell or oth-
erwise dispose of the same provided the same shall
have first been approved by two-thirds of the elector-
ate be eliminated?
YES NO
This Charter amendment would eliminate Section 2(2)
of Chapter II because the substance of the section is
covered under Section 2(1) of Chapter 2.
Ballot Question C
Shall the Village Charter, Chapter 11, Section 3
(1) which prohibits the Village from acquiring real
property by purchase, gift or lease if the annual rental
exceeds $1000, unless first approved by two-thirds of
the electors voting thereon be amended by providing
that the Village may not acquire any real property by
purchase or gift if the value exceeds $10_000 or by
lease if the annual rental exceeds $10.000 unless first
approved by two-thirds of the electors voting thereon
and by adding language that exempts Village leased
office space from an annual rental limitation?
YES NO
The amendment would prohibit the Village from ac-
quiring any real property by purchase or gift if the value
exceeds $10,000 or acquiring real property by lease if
the rental value exceeds $10,000 unless the acquisition is
first approved by two-thirds of the electors voting thereon
at any general election. The amendment would exempt
Village leased office space from the annual rental value
limitation.
Ballot Question D
Shall the Village Charter, Chapter II, Section 2
(13), which authorizes the Village to make contracts or
arrangements with the Franklin Village Volunteer Fire
Department, Inc., and/or any municipality or individual
or corporation for fire protection be amended by adding
the language that authorizes the Village to make con-
tracts or arrangements with any municipal corporation
for police protection and for the services of its police
department?
YES NO
This Charter Amendment would now include contracts
for outside police protection and services.
Ballot Question E
Shall the Village Charter, Chapter III. Section 3-
A. which requires in part that all officers of the Village,
elected or appointed, shall take and subscribe the oath of
office prescribed by the Constitution of the State and file
the same with the Clerk and in the case of failure to do so
within ten (10) days after receiving notice under election
or appointment, shall be deemed to have declined the of-
fice, be amended by eliminating the language "within 10
days" and replacing it with "within 30 days"?
YES NO
This Charter amendment would increase the time period
for officers to take the oath of office from 10 days to 30
days.
Ballot Question F
Shall the Village Charter, Chapter HI, Section
18, which requires that the Council appoint the Village
Assessor and two (2) qualified freeholders and electors
who shall constitute the Board of Review of the Village
in relation to assessments made for general taxation pur-
poses be eliminated because Southfield Township has
the power and responsibility for the appointments?
YES NO
This Charter amendment would recognize that the
Village has the authority to undertake the perform-
ance of public works without a cost limitation.
Ballot Question J
Shall the Village Charter, Chapter VIII, Sec-
tion 3, which provides that no public improvement
costing more than $500 shall be contracted for or
commenced until drawings, profiles, and estimates for
same shall have been submitted to the Council and
approved by it; and a copy thereof filed with the
Clerk subject to public inspection be amended by
raising the cost limitation from $500 to $20,000?
This Charter amendment would raise the dollar re-
quirement from $500 to $20,000 before drawings,
profiles, and estimates for same have been submitted
to Council and approved by it.
out first advertising for sealed proposals, be amended
by eliminating the requirement to advertise for sealed
proposals if the cost exceeds $500.00.
YES NO
This Charter Amendment would eliminate Section 18 of
Chapter III because Southfield Township has the respon-
sibility and power to appoint a Board of Review.
Ballot Question G
Shall the Village Charter, Chapter IV, Section 16,
be amended by eliminating the first sentence of the sec-
tion which requires that the Village Council convene at
8:00 p.m. on the first day, other than a Sunday or a holi-
day, succeeding any special or regular election, to can-
vass the results of the election, and then determine the
vote upon all questions and propositions and declare
whether the same have been adopted or rejected and what
persons have been elected at such election to the several
offices, be amended to delete the requirement for a meet-
ing at 8:00 p.m. on the first day, other than a Sunday or
holiday?
YES NO
This Charter Amendment would eliminate the require-
ment that the Village Council convene as a Board of Can-
vassers as this responsibility is assumed and fulfilled by
the Oakland County Board of Canvassers.
Ballot Question H
Shall the Village Charter, Chapter VIII, Section
1, which prohibits the Village from entering into any con-
tract for any public improvement or purchase of anything
that exceeds the cost of $2,500, without specifications and
public advertisement for sealed proposals, unless the
members of the Council elect by a two-thirds vote deter-
mine that contracts may be made without published ad-
vertisement for sealed bids if the consideration shall not
exceed $5,000, be amended by raising the $2500 cost
limitation to "$20,000", and, by raising the $5000 consid-
eration limitation to "$20,000,"?
YES NO
This Charter amendment would recognize that the Vil-
lage may enter into contracts for the making of any pub-
lic improvement or the purchase of any materials, tools,
or apparatus, the cost of which shall not exceed $20,000,
without public advertisements for sealed proposals. By a
two-thirds vote of Council, contracts, the consideration of
which shall not exceed $20,000, may be made without
public advertisement for sealed proposals.
Ballot Question I
Shall the Village Charter, Chapter II, Section 3,
which permits the Village employees to perform public
work or let any such work by contract; provided that the
Village shall not undertake the performance of any con-
struction work exceeding an estimated cost of $500 with-
Newsworthy Information
For Residents
WORD FROM THE
POLICE CHIEF 4
PERMITS REQUIRED FOR DRIVEWAY
WORK
Glomb
Chief of Police
Public Rights of Way
The Village has been performing major work on several of
its local roads and at times, the work extends into the public rights-
of-way.
Questions are often raised as to what is a public right-of-
way and how does that affect a property owner.
A public right-of-way is land that has been dedicated to the
Village for public use, including access for maintenance and con-
struction of roads. drainage systems. public utilities, sidewalks, etc.
These rights-of-way are to be kept free of obstacles such as private
underground electronic dog fences, sprinkler systems and other im-
pediments.
Permission from the Village is required for all work per-
formed in the public right-of-way. The Village is not responsible
for the repair of damage to items installed by residents when they
are placed in the right-of-way without a permit.
The exception to this is the installation of a federally ap-
proved mailbox. However, the exception does not include any
structures a property owner may install around the mailbox.
Fences
The goals of the Village is to preserve its natural beauty,
vegetation and charm. Village Ordinance does not allow fencing
unless it is approved by the Village Council. Historically, fencing
has been allowed solely for enclosure of swinuning pools and
ponds.
For property owners who have fences, many of which are
grandfathered. those fences must be kept in good condition.
Invisible fencing also is controlled by Village ordinance
and permits are required. Specifically. invisible fencing is not al-
lowed in the front yard and a dog is not to be left outside without an
adult on the premises.
Greetings from your police department! It has
been a little while since my last article, so I thought it
would be a good idea to bring everyone up to date on
crane in the Village.
We recently compiled our crime statistics for
2004 and it turns out that it was a record low year for ma-
jor crimes. We only recorded a total of 45 major crimes
for the entire year compared to 56 in 2003. 2004 was our
best year in the last 23 years!
Residential Breaking and Enterings were down
from 12 to 2 and commercial burglaries were down from
12 to 4. One Armed Robbery was recorded, which is the
same as last year.
Overall, it was a great year and I commend my
Officers, Reserve Officers, our Mobile Watch Groups and
all of the citizens who helped us by reporting suspicious
activity.
HOWEVER, we did experience an increase in
residential larcenies. 21 were repartee_ .n 2004 ..-:ompared
to 16 in 2003. The sad fact is that 111051 of these could
have been prevented. Almost all of the larcenies occurred
at night from either unlocked cars parked in the driveway,
or from garages where the door had been left open.
Come on everybody—PUSH THAT LI ITLE
BUTTON AND LOCK YOUR CARS AND DOORS!
And as usual, keep reporting anything suspicious.
One other quick thought on jogging and bike rid-
ing. We recommend that whenever possible, use a side-
walk or path. Jog, walk or ride against traffic and never do
any during rush hour..
And finally, school is out, so please watch your
speeds and emphasize that to all your young drivers.
Have a great summer!
If you're contemplating a new driveway or sealcoating pro-
ject, here are a few hints that can make the project easier.
A driveway permit must be obtained from the Village office
for any driveway work. The permit fee is $25.00. A $1,000 cash
bond is also required to cover the cost to repair any road damage cre-
ated by the contractor. If there is no damage, the entire bond is re-
turned.
Check the references of your contractor. There are some
who do a great job, others who don't. Some leave telltale signs be-
hind, like tar tracks up and down the road. It doesn't have to be that
way. It just requires the contractor to take precautions.
Tax bills have been sent to all property owners
in the Village. Village residents will receive two tax
bills, one from Bingham Farms and the other from South-
field Township.
Village taxes may be paid from July 1 through
August 31 without penalty. All payments must be U.S.
Postmarked no later than August 31, 2005 to avoid pen-
alty.
Southfield Township taxes are due by September
14, 2005.
CABLE HOTLINE HANDLES
SUBSCRIBER COMPLAINTS
LETTER
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Mary Jane Bauer
,
Hey, the big game is on T-V. You're settled back in
your favorite chair and all of a sudden
the cable goes out. Frustrating? Abso-
lutely!
If experiencing a problem, the
first thing a subscriber should do is call
Con-mast. the cable provider at 248-855-
6971 Customer service representatives
are available 24-hours a day. They will
schedule a service call and that's often
within 24 hours.
However, there are times when the service response
or service repair is not satisfactory. The subscriber has an-
other venue to resolve the situation.
It's the Birmingham Area Cable Board Hotline at
248-336-9445. Just leave your name, phone number and a
Brief message and your call will be returned as soon as possi-
ble. The Board employs a part time staff member to work
with the subscriber and Comcast to resolve recurring or ongo-
ing problems.
For SERVICE call Comcast at 248-855-6971 or I-
800-COMCAST.
For COMPLAINTS call the Cable Board at 248-
336-9445.
FRANKLIN BINGHAM FIRE
DEPARTMENT TO HOLD
ANNUAL MEETING
Oft
A special invitation is extended to all resi-
dents of Bingham Farms from the Franldin-
Bingham Fire Department to attend their annual
meeting.
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2005
AT 8:00 P.M.
FIRE HALL
32707 FRANKLIN ROAD
,ommol
The last couple of weeks proved the old joke: "If you
don't like the weather. wait a moment." Spring brought out the
flowers, the leaves and our residents. A nice walk soothes the
soul and reawakens our appreciation of the lovely village we call
our own. Unfortunately, speeders often sour a morning or eve-
ning walk. Walking up or down the hill on Bingham Road is a
harrowing experience when two cars speed past each other and
there is no place for a pedestrian to jump. Almost every Village
letter addresses speeding and most of the speeders are residents.
Please watch your driving, cycling and walking. A traffic injury
caused by speeding would sadden all of us. How could you face
your neighbors if you injured one of them?
In our last issue we told you that the State of Michigan
mandated that Village elections be held in September of odd
numbered years or in November of even numbered years. Your
trustees decided that elections for Village Council should be in
September: on September 13th this year. Because of the require-
ment for alternate years. we decided to extend the terms of office
from two years to four years. In this way. only half of your trus-
tees will be up for election at any given time. This was impor-
tant to maintain continuity.
Our fiscal year starts July first. The Village has held
tight on the 6.8 mills of property taxes. The State has continued
to cut the anticipated revenue sharing (monies the State returns
to municipalities from sales tax revenue). To offset this short-
fall the Village is reassessing many village projects. Only criti-
cal projects will be undertaken along with needed maintenance
work. Your trustees are committed to using tax money wisely
and conservatively. We will keep you posted on any changes in
funding and finances.
The Village is always looking for volunteers for com-
missions and advisory boards. If you are interested in being con-
sidered for an appointment, send a letter with a summation of
your background to the Village office. You may not be called to
serve immediately, but your availability is important to us.
Please have a great summer and don't forget to wave
hello and give your neighbors a big smile whenever you see
them.
DEER CREATE PROBLEMS FOR
RESIDENTS
(Photo: Courtesy of Carol Goodell)
You either love them or hate them. Deer that is.
While they are neat to look at, they can become a pest. espe-
cially when they use vegetable or flower gardens for food.
Deer can also cause considerable damage to trees and shrub-
bery.
Right now, there's not much that can reasonably be
done to cut the deer population. However, homeowners can
take steps to minimize the damage problem.
Repellents can reduce but will not eliminate dam-
age. Many different products are available for spraying on
shrubs and in gardens. Odor-based products may work better
than taste-aversion products. Read the labels carefully be-
cause many repellants have to be applied after rain.
Another deterrent may be man's best friend - a large
dog outside will keep
them at a distance.
The foods
deer prefer are white
cedar. arborvitae, aral-
ens, yews, roses and
most fruit trees.
Deer tend not
to eat (unless really
hungry) boxwood, bar-
berry, pine, spruce,
dogwood, roses and
most fruit trees.
A resident
snapped this picture as a
deer ventured right up to
her backyard window. He wasn't phased at all when she took
the picture. Deer are definitely acclimating to urban life.
For more information on living with deer contact the
Michigan State University Yard and Garden Hotline at 248-
858-0902 and ask for their "Guidelines for Plants Damaged
by Deer". It contains a complete list of plants deer like and
don't like.
While the hot weather may be keeping people inside
more, when venturing outside, especially early morning or late
afternoon and evening, remember to protect yourself form mos-
quito bites.
While West Nile Virus may not be the lead story in the
news, it is still a health concern in the state and throughout
Oakland County. The County is continuing its Mosquito
Smarts program in 2005.
The program consists of Public Education, Source Re-
duction and advocating Strong Personal Protection Measures.
The County will continue to monitor
dead bird reports. Dead birds, specifically
crows, blue jays and ravens, should be re-
ported to Oakland County Health Division In-
formation Line 1-877-377-3641.
When handling dead birds, avoid
barehanded contacts. Use gloves or double
plastic bags when disposing of the carcass.
Individuals also can play an invalu-
able part in combating the virus by following certain practices,
4' Remove areas of standing water around the home
(buckets. pails, birdbaths)
*Clean out gutters
*Use insect repellants containing 20-30% DEET and
follow directions carefully when using on children.
*Wear long pants and long sleeve shirts if out in the
early morning or after dusk.
This program works! In 2004 Oakland County experi-
enced an extremely mild outbreak of West Nile Virus with just
one confirmed case and one possible mild case reported.
Keep taking the precautions and make 200f .mother
mild year.
For mo;-e information log on to
co.oakiand.nii.us.
1.111111R..7.1)41,6
KEEPING OUR WATERWAYS
CLEAN
All around us. the landscape seems to be changing.
Vacant lots are being developed. Old homes are being torn
down and replaced with large homes. big driveways and 34
car garages. What used to be grass and trees is being replaced
with asphalt and brick. The increase of
impervious surfaces impacts the quality
of the waterways. not only in Bingham
Farms but communities downriver.
When it rains, that rain just
slides across the solid surfaces and rap-
idly flows into nearby drainage ditches
and ultimately into a stream or river.
Streams can be quickly overloaded with
rushing water causing erosion, flooding
and dislocation of area wildlife.
The problem can be solved by softening the land-
scape wherever possible. Instead of the asphalt or concrete
driveway, use a porous surface such as pavers surrounded by
grass DM mortar.
Sstormwater systems such as rain gardens and rain
barrels, can be utilized. They help infiltrate water into the
ground or contain the water. Rain barrels can be used to irri-
gate the lawn or water vegetable and flower gardens.
Everyone has a stake in cleaning up the Rouge River.
a
3
3
4
A
GETTING AROUND MICHIGAN
THIS SUMMER
It's summer in Michigan and that means just one thing. No,
not lazy. hazy days at the lake. rather, finding a way to get to the lake
Those orange barrels seem to be everywhere.
What may be even more frustrating arc the lane closures, tha
may change from week to week, even day to day.
Most residents in Southeast Michigan have been navigating
the major construction work in the Detroit area. However, major con
struction has started that impacts other parts of the State, including
north_
This summer twenty-four miles of road will be resurfaced o
1-75 from M-15 to US-23 at a cost of $25 million. On US-23, a $28
million investment will rebuild nearly seven miles of freeway.
To find more information on state road
construction projects, log on to the Michigan
Dept. of Transportation website at
www.michigan.gov/mdot and then click on roads
and travel.
The Road Commission for Oakland
County also has several summer projects under-
way.
Access their website at
www.rcocweb.org and find a complete listing of road work with start
and estimated completion dates.
Not to be left out, the Village has its own local road projects.
This spring major drainage improvements were made on Coachlight
and Old Stage Roads. This project is finished.
However, this summer, road work is planned for Hickory
Hollow. The project entails a total replacement of the road and drain
age improvements. The project is expected to be completed by the
FalL but that is dependent upon pricing, contractor availability and
weather.
4.1 44,07,1,1141.94
CHECK OUT THE VILLAGE WEBSITE
Want to know what's happening in the Village?
Check out the village website to keep up to date with activi-
ties in the Village.
The site is updated with the latest approved meet-
ing minutes for Village Council, Planning Commission and
Design Review Board meetings.
Agendas for upcoming meetings are posted on the
site.
If water emergencies are declared in the Village, the
site will give the latest information.
Log on to w-ww.binghamfarms.org.
NEW WATER & SEWER
RATES SET
The Village water supply is provided by
SOCWA (Southeast Oakland County Water Authority) .
They purchase the water from Detroit Water & Sewerage.
The Village also contracts with Oakland County Water &
Sewer to handle billing and maintenance operations in the
Village. It includes meter reading, issuing bills and col-
lecting payments and maintaining the Village's infrastruc-
ture.
Each year Detroit Water re-
views its operational costs to establish
the rates to be charged for residents in
Detroit and the suburbs. SOCWA also
reviews its costs as does the County.
The County compiles the costs
from each entity and submits one rate
that Bingham Farms residents pay. When compared to
surrounding communities, Bingham Farms continues to
have one of the lowest costs for water and sewer. The
new rates are set to go into effect on July 1, 2005.
Sewer
$14.96/mcf
$14.54/mcf
FACTS ABOUT TEENAGERS
AND ALCOHOL
M.1••n•n•n•••=11n11.../1•I
Teens say that it is easy to get alcohol from
stores, friends or at home. A national survey shows that
70% of 8th graders, 88% of 10th graders and 94% of 12th
graders claimed it was "fairly" or "very" easy to get alco-
hol.
Why is it so easy to get alcohol? Teens say they
get it from friends, siblings, unlocked liquor cabinets,
even licensed alcohol outlets.
When they first start drinking, most youth get
alcohol from home, with or without their parents' permis-
sion. One-third of 6th and 9th graders obtain alcohol
from their own homes or other people's homes. As they
get older, teens are more likely to get alcohol from friends
and siblings over the age of 21 and at parties.
Adults can make an important difference in pre-
venting underage drinking by:
*Continually talking to youth about the risks and
consequences.
*Encourage participation in activities outside of
school.
*Make time for family activities.
New Rate
Last Year
Water
$13.25/mcf
$11.85/mcf
.0 1
IN •
ir.PC,
Mr. & Mrs. D.E. Hagaman
32671 Bingham Ln.
Bingham Farms MI 48025
OR CURRENT RESIDENT
HISTORICAL COMMITTEE
DISCOVERS EXCITING
INFORMATION
# 4
The Village of Bingham Farms.eelebrates its 50th
Anniversary this year. To mark this historic event, the Vil-
lage Council has appointed a Committee to compile a his-
tory of the Village.
The Conunittee consists of Delores Tripp, Chair,
Betty Mandy, Dorothy Barrett, Mary Jane Bauer and Anna
Mary Deneau (spent her childhood in the Village).
Many on the-cenunittee shareritheir_. memoriesof
the Village and provided a unique view of life in the Village
before major development occurred.
The committee also solicited information from resi-
dents who currently reside in several of the historical homes
in the Village.
The material that these residents have provided is
invaluable. Original deeds, old magazine stories and origi-
nal plat plans provide an incredible view of the early days of
the Village. A former resident commissioned a historic re-
view of their home, which was built in 1835.
The Village has changed over the years but signs of
its history remain. The information compiled will become a
written History of the Village.
Documenting the History of the Village is an on-
going project and information can be provided to the Com-
mittee at any time. Contact the Village office if you have
information to contribute.
The Council is also considering hosting an
"Anniversary Party" to mark this historical milestone. It
should take place before the end of the year.
HOW TO CONTACT YOUR
REPRESENTATIVES
U.S. SENATORS
Carl Levin (D) 202-224-6221
senator@levin.senate.gov
Debbie Stabenow (D) 202-224-4822
senator@stabenowsenate.gov
U.S. REPRESENTATIVES
Joe Knollen berg (R) 202-225-5802
rep.krnallenbergginail.house.gov
STATE SENATOR
Gilda Jacobs (D) 517-373-7888
sengiacobsa,senate. state. mi . us
STATE REPRESENTATIVE
Shelley Goodman Taub (R) 517-373-8670
shelleytaub@house.mi.gav
STATE ATTORNEY GENERAL
Mike Cox (R) 517-373-1110
www.ag.state.mi.us
VILLAGE ELECTIONS
SEPTEMBER 13, 2005
AT BINGHAM FARMS SCHOOL
The Bingham Farms Post is
published quarterly by the Village
of Bingham Farms.
Editor: Kathryn Hapman
bingham@mich.com
The next edition of the Post is
scheduled for October. 2005
Deadline for submission of articles
is September 15, 2005.
All articles must be submitted in
writing to the Village office. The
editing of articles is left to the sole
discretion of the staff.
Website; wwwhinghamfamis.org
Village of Bingham Farms
24255 Thirteen Mile Road #190
Bingham Farms, MI 48025
(248) 644-0044
Presorted Standard
U.S. Postage
PAID
Birmingham, MI
Permit No. 217
Spring, 2005
91-1 E LI H FARMS IPON
VILLAGE SCHEDULES SPECIAL COLLECTIONS
•
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE DROP
OFF SET FOR JUNE 11TH
The Village has scheduled the Annual Household
Hazardous Waste Drop off for Saturday. June llth between
the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
Check the special section in this letter for items
that are and are not acceptable.
The drop off will again be held in the back park-
ing lot of the Jamestowne South
building located at 24255 Thir-
teen Mile Road.
Load up your car or
truck. drive in and let the trained
staff from Industrial Services
Inc. do the rest. You don't even
have to get out of you car.
Proof of residency will
be required. A valid driver's license or vehicle registration
will suffice.
Please remember, only oil-based paint will be ac-
cepted. Latex paint is not considered a hazardous material.
Latex paint can be discarded year round in the regular trash
if this simple procedure is followed.
Open the unused cans, pour in kitty litter until the
liquid is soaked up. Then place the open cans next to your
regular trash. The rubbish collectors need to see that the
latex paint is now a solid.
If you have any questions, feel free to call the Vil-
lage office at 248-644-0044.
VILLAGE SETS FULL TIME
HOURS
.
A Village milestone is reached. As of April 1. 2005
the Village will operate with full-time staff. The hours of op-
eration will be 9:00 am. -4:00 p.m.
The Council made this determination after reviewing
the increased responsibilities of both the Clerk/Administrator
and Treasurer positions. In the past three years. new federal
and state mandates have increased staff load to the point it
was no longer possible to operate on a part time basis.
SEMI-ANNUAL LARGE ITEM
PICK UP SET FOR JUNE 9TH
Spring has finally arrived. The birds are back_ the
weather is turning warm. It means only one thing - it's time for
spring clean-up both inside and outdoors.
It's time to throw away unwanted items like that old
couch or washing machine. This pick-up is for getting rid of
"large-items". not an opportunity to clean out the entire house.
There have been recent situations where residents literally have
items lined along their entire front yard and up and down the
driveway. This is the purpose of the large item pickup. If a
resident has excessive items out for pick up, it will be the dis-
cretion of the rubbish collector to by-pass this
residence.
A special collection should be ar-
ranged with the rubbish contractor and it may
be advisable to ask for a roll-off container to
dispose of attics-full of unwanted items.
Car Trucking will bring in extra man-
power to handle the collection on June 9th.
All you have to do is get the items to the street.
For the large item pick up only, large itcms can be
place at the street the weekend before the large item pick up.
Regular trash however. may not be placed at the street before
7:00 p.m. the day prior to collection.
Check the special section in this newsletter for a list of
what is acceptable.
If you're disposing of a refrigerator or freezer. the
Freon must be removed prior to placing the item at the road and
the doors must be removed. Car Trucking is not able to do this.
Postcard reminders will be mailed to residents closer
to the pick up date.
11101MOX X
FIND LATEST ROAD CONSTRUCTION
INFORMATION
LOG ON 70
The official Road Commission web site
www.rcocweb.org
or
REPORT POTHOLES AT
877-858-4804
DILEMMA OVER EMERALD
ASH BORER PROBLEMS
, , • .
The spread of Emerald Ash Borer continues and has
now surfaced in Ohio and Indiana. Millions of trees have been
lost and millions more are at nsk.
Michigan has developed a plan to assist municipalities
in containing costs relative to the removal of ash trees in the
rights of way and public land. We are currently developing a
plan to remove ash trees in the public rights of way.
While the plan allows for resident par-
ticipation. it places the administrative responsi-
bilities totally on the municipality. After exten-
sive discussion. your Village Council deter-
mined that we just don't have the staffing neces-
sary to implement this program for residential
property. Fortunately. the Village office does
have, for your review a list of contractors who
were qualified by the State for this program and
contract pricing established by the State.
We hope that you will work together with your
neighbors to receive the best pricing possible. You can do this
by scheduling tree cuttings at the same time with the same con-
tractor. The state contract pricing will be a useful tool when
negotiating price with private contractors.
Look for updates on our Village website at
www.bingliamfarms.org .
K1,0,
'
BATTLE WITH WEST NILE
VIRUS CONTINUES
a A
Spring starts the third year that municipalities in Oak-
land County continue the battle against West Nile Virus. And it
looks as if we're winning the battle.
The West Nile Virus is present throughout most of the
I Jailed States. It is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause en-
cephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis
(inflammation of the lining of the brain). A mosquito becomes
infected by biting a bird that carries the virus. If a person is bit-
ten by an infected mosquito, that person can contact the virus.
'the major concern again this year is that residents will
let down their guard when dealing with this potential deadly vi-
rus. Last year the disease was barely noticeable.
Progress is being made. The following chart shows the
number of cases reported in each of the categories
2002
Dead Birds 2,000
Confirmed human Cases 219
Deaths 20
Oakland County health officials held its annual confer-
ence for local municipalities recently to discuss this year's
strategy to combat the West Nile Virus.
The effort will once again emphasize prevention.
The County will also devote resources to preventing mosquito
breeding on public lands. enhancing existing disease surveil-
lance and promoting educational programs.
The public has an active role to play also. Reporting
of dead crows will resume as of April 1.
If a dead CrON% is found. call the County Information
Hotline at 1-877-377-3641. This information will help keep
track of potential risk areas.
Wide-spread spraying is not being recommended.
Chemical assaults against West Nile virus-
bearing mosquitoes could do more harm
than good to other eco-systems.
The County is making funds avail-
able to help communities educate residents.
kill mosquito larvae on public lands and do
focused pesticide spraying of parks and
other green spaces.
The County will not help nay for
widespread spraying of neighborhoods.
The County strongly believes the best protection for
residents is through preventive measures. A public education
program called Mosquito Smarts lists steps every homeowner
can take to eliminate potential breeding grounds.
It's based on the three
REDUCE areas where mosquitoes breed.
REPEL through the use of protective clothing and
appropriate spray.
REPORT mosquito-breeding areas to proper person-
nel.
Here are some specific recommendations for prop-
erty. owners.
* Avoid areas where mosquitoes may be present
(shaded and wooded areas).
* Limit outdoor activity at dusk and dawn when
mosquitoes are most active.
* Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and use netting
over strollers and playpens when outdoors.
* Do not use insect repellent on children younger
than two years of age: use repellents containing not more than
10% DEET sparingly on children 2-6 years of age: insect re-
pellents containing up to 35% DEET may be used on older
children and adults before outdoor recreational activities.
*Eliminate standing water that collects in children's
toys. buckets. tires, unused pools. boats and other containers.
*Maintain window and door screening to keep mos-
quitoes out of homes.
Other recommended anti-mosquito activities include:
* Clean gutters.
* Frequently change water in birdbaths to prevent
larvae from developing.
* Remove debris that can trap water such as old tires.
paint cans and empty flower pots.
* Turn over toys that may collect water.
2003 2004
800 534
3
2 0
-
LETTER
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Mary Jane Bauer
What a winter!! In consideration of safer roads. the
Council initiated a new policy that called for increased salt
applications after snow plowing. Unfortunately this was the
19th snowiest on record in the Detroit area and the additional
salt and the increased plowing more than doubled the cost of
snow removal. Thanks to everyone who made sure that their
personal snow removal service obeyed Village requirements
about plowing.
With warm weather on the way, many of us are
thinking of remodeling, repaving and ash tree problems. We
strongly ask you to please contact your Village office to learn
of ordinances, restrictions and permits that may be required
before starting any work.
You may have wondered what happened to the Vil-
lage elections that are normally scheduled early in March.
Last year. the State of Michigan mandated that Village elec-
tions be held in September of odd numbered years or Novem-
ber of even numbered years. The trustees in the neighboring
villages of Franklin and Beverly Hills and your Bingham
Farms Trustees decided that elections for Village Council
should be in September: September 12 th this year. We want to
be able to publicize issues and have better participation apart
from the general elections rather than have the village ballot
issues added on to the state and national ballots in November.
In the last issue of our newsletter. we wrote that the
amount of paperwork required of Bingham Farms by state.
county and federal governments became such that our part-
time office staff was working overtime every day of the week.
Our Village Council decided that Village interests were best
served by extending our office hours with full-time employ-
ment. (Note that Beverly Hills and Franklin have many full-
time employees). Fortunately we can contain the costs. you
now have access to our Village office during business hours
and our staff can handle the increased demands of our state.
county and federal governments.
We think of Bingham Farms as a Village of friendly
neighbors giving each other a break and a hand. We want to
live together in peace and harmony, but the other day, a driver
almost ran some walkers off the road. Last week, some walk-
ers refused to walk single file on the side of the road when
two ears were trying to pass. Someone disregarded a stop sign
last night. Someone drove way over the 25 MPH speed limit
this morning. Was it you? This is your Village and it is filled
with your neighbors. Please be considerate.
We are always looking for volunteers for commis-
sions and advisory boards. If you can help, give our Village
Office a calf You may not be called to serve immediately,
but your availability is important to us.
Please have a great spring and don't forget to wave
hello and give your neighbors a big smile whenever you see
them,
IT'S ABOUT TIME!
Bingham Farms Mobile Watch
It seemed that spring would never arrive. Now. fi-
nally. we notice the first signs of a new season, and believe that
it will get warmer. It's about time.
It's also about time for you to install a Bingham Farms
Mobile Watch decal in your car if you don't already have one.
They are available FREE, and provide an important assist to
Mobile Watch and your police department. Checking out Can
that do not appear to "belong - here takes time and money, nei-
ther of which is available in great quantity.
To assist law enforcement, you should have a decal in
each car and truck in your household. The decals are small.
green and blue. with no letters or numbers, but they identify the
vehicle as part of Bingham Farms. That will prevent needless
record checking... time that could be spent on more important
matters. Decals are available by calling Dick Holloway at
248/644-2622.
Check your car now for a decal. If you don't sec one.
isn't it about time?
IN=AINIM.111.
CABLE COMPLAINTS CAN BE
SENT TO THE CABLE BOARD
1
Are you having trouble with your cable T-V service'?
Just can't get Comcast to fix the problem?
Now there are two ways to register a complaint with
the Cable Board which oversees the cable franchisee. One is
via the phone_ the other is through the
internet.
The Cable Hot Line number is
248-646-8450. Just leave your name,
phone number and a brief message. A
part- time Cable Board employee will re-
turn your call as soon as possible.
A subscriber may also register a
complaint on the Board's web site: www.
birmingliamareacableboard.org . Click on the complaint/
comment link.
Once the Board receives the complaint., it is forwarded
to a government liaison at Comcast for action. These com-
plaints are logged and forwarded to each Board member. Corn-
cast then reports to the Board how the complaint was resolved.
But before issuing a complaint with the Board, a sub-
scriber must provide Conicast with an opportunity to resolve
the problem first. Call Conicast service at 248-855- 6971.
LARGE ITEM PICK UP
REGULATIONS
Date: Thursday, June 9, 2005
Time: All large items at street by 7:00 a.m.
ACCEPTABLE ITEMS
* Large appliances, furniture and hot water heaters
(Refrigerators & freezers must have freon removed prior to
pick up)
* A maximum of two tires
* Only small tree stumps
* Brush, tree branches must be bundled and the length not to
exceed four feet
* Rolls of carpet and linoleum must be tied together with the
length not to exceed four feet
* Disposal of construction materials is limited to one 32-gallon trash con-
tainer
UNACCEPTABLE ITEMS
* Large tree stumps
* Hazardous waste
* Automotive parts
* Loose gravel
* Large amounts of construction material & loose items
Car Trucking has the right to refuse to pick up extraordinary amounts of
items. If you have any questions, please call Car Trucking at 586-791-8480.
ACCEPTABLE MATERIALS
GARDEN GARAGE
VILLAGE OF BINGHAM FARMS
HAZARDOUS WASTE DISPOSAL DAY
Date: Saturday, June 11, 2005
Time: 10:00 a.m. 1:00 p.m.
Location: Jamestowne South
24255 Thirteen Mile Road
a
I
Dispose of your
Household Hazardous
Wastes at the annual Bing-
ham Farms Hazardous
Waste Disposal Day.
The vast majority of
household hazardous wastes
will be accepted.
These materials
should not go into landfills
(and they will, if thrown
away with the regular trash)
or be washed down the
drains.
Your participation
will ensure the hazardous
wastes will be disposed of
in an environmentally safe
manner.
NONACCEPTABLE
MATERIALS
* Smoke Detectors (they
contain radioactive mate-
rial)
* Radioactive material
*Compressed gas cylinders
*Explosives
* Shock sensitive materials
Bug sprays, sticks & cremes
Ant & roach powder
Garden dusts & sprays
Weed killer
Fly strips
Herbicides
Insecticides
Rat poison
KITCHEN/BATHROOM
Floor care products
Nail polish
Furniture polishes
Oven cleaners
Scouring powders
Spot & stain removers
Chlorine bleach
Toilet cleaners
Grout sealer/primer
Medicines (expired)
Dyes
Moth balls/flakes
Aerosol cans
COMPUTERS
Monitors
Hard Drives
Keyboards
Antifreeze
Brake fluid
Car wax
Metal polish
Automatic transmission fluid
Oil filters
Fuel oil
Gas & diesel additives
Engine cleaners
Auto batteries & acid
Kerosene
WORKSHOP
Oil based paint only
Paint thinner & stripper
Turpentine
Primer
Varnish
Glue, solvent based
Paint brush cleaner
Mineral spirits
Wood stain & preservatives
Gun cleaning solvents
Photographic chemicals
Lighter fluid
Fiberglass epoxy
Dry cleaning solvents
Artists paints & mediums
Upholstery & carpet cleaners
NOTE: Dispose of latex (water
based) paint by drying it (with
kitty litter) and place cans along
the side of your rubbish.
RESIDENTS NEED TO HELP
PREVENT BURGLARIES
Ed Glomb, Police Chief
, • ZIMIRSIMIIMI TPPIMeell..17,,r2TaVI:
Due to several recent incidents in neighboring com-
munities, it is important for residents to take steps to keep
from becoming a victim.
While Bingham Farms is a safe community. it does
not mean that residents can relax. Thieves look for opportuni-
ties not only to gain entry into homes, they also check for
unlocked cars where they often find laptop computers and cell
phones in plain sight.
Last year. police arrested an individual who was re-
sponsible for at least forty Breaking and Enterings in just over
a two-month period, possibly nine in Franklin and Bingham
Farms. The suspect was addicted to cocaine and broke into
homes looking for cash, jewelry and
anything else that could be easily
pawned or sold.
Again last year, a burglar
cased out homes that appeared unoc-
cupied. He would knock on the door
and if no one answered. he would
force his way into the home. If
someone did answer, he would sim-
ply ask for someone who didn't live
there.
Sometimes he got lucky. Some homes were
unlocked or had sophisticated alarm systems that were not
turned on.
The suspect was apprehend after an alert homeowner
who didn't believe his story. called police and reported him as
a suspicious person_
Another incident involved two individuals posing as
police officers. These two suspects, both on parole and using
drugs, targeted elderly people. They would gain entry to the
home by posing as policemen or delivery men. Once they
convinced the homeowner to open the door. they would
physically overpower the elderly resident(s), tie them up and
ransack the home. The suspects were arrested after an alert
homeowner in Franklin thought they were suspicious and
telephoned police.
The warm weather is coming and that often leads to
more opportunities for criminals as residents leave their doors
and windows open.
Residents must take the basic steps to avoid becoin-
ing a victim of a serious crime. They are simple common
sense things that sometimes are overlooked.
I, LOCK YOUR DOORS.
2. IF YOU HAVE AN ALARM SYS IM. USE. IT
ALL THE TIME. Don't worry about false alarms. The Vil-
lage provides four false alarms before charging for them.
3. IF YOU DON'T HAVE AN ALARM SYSTEM.
LOOK INTO ONE.
4. IF YOU HAVE AN ALARM SYSTEM. HAVE
A PANIC BUTTON INSTALLED NEAR THE FRONT
DOOR,
' 5. STORE VALUABLE JEWELRY IN A
LOCKED SAFE.
6. DON'T OPEN YOUR DOOR TO STRANGERS.
The Village has a No Soliciting Ordinance, so don't feel obli-
gated to open your door. You want to let whomever is at your
door know that someone is home, but you don't have to open
it to do so.
7. IF YOU DON'T HAVE A WINDOW AT THE
DOOR. INSTALL A PEEPHOLE SO YOU CAN SEE WHO
IS THERE.
8. IF YOU THINK SOMETHING IS WRONG.
SUSPICIOUS. STRANGE. OR WHATEVER, CALL THE
POLICE. You are not bothering us. Quite the contrary. you
are helping us.
The purpose of this article is to send the message
that we shouldn't be complacent when it comes to crime.
Common sense is usually all you need to keep yourself from
being a victim. If you have any questions or concerns. call us
at 248-626-9672 and ask for Sergeant Castro or me.
BINGHAM PARNIS SCHOOL PLANS
FOR GROWTH
Bingham Farms School is busting at the seams. that
from Principal Russ Facione as he talked about the 2.000 sq.
It. addition that's set to begin this summer. The protect will
be funded through the Bond Issue that was passed last year
and will set the school up for the next 30 years.
The addition will house a new gymnasium. music
room and several new classrooms. Other parts of the school
will be reconfigured. such as the front office. The current
gymnasium serves several purposes including a lunch room
and a meeting room. The addition will
allow the school to have more flexibility in
serving school and community functions.
When it's all done the school will
have a totally new infrastructure and will
be air conditioned.
The bond money will also solve
some of the parking problem at the school.
A bus loop will be constructed to the west of the existing
parking lot. It will be for buses only and provide extra safeaa
for the children getting on and off the bus.
The plans may be viewed on-line at
www.birmingieunk12.ini.us . Then click on District Informa-
tion, then Bond UNates and finally Bingham Farms Plans.
The Village office also has a set of plans on file.
VILLAGE REMINDERS TIPS FOR A SAFE GRADUATION
SEASON
Additions or major renovations
Are you thinking of sprucing up
,'our home, tackling an addition or other
major renovation?
A homeowner must fill out a
Pre-applieation for Building Permit with
the Village office. Upon payment of the
appropriate Village Pre-application fee
and upon approval of the plans. the
plans are then brought to the City of Southfield Building
Dept. The actual building permits are pulled from South-
field. with applicable permit fees paid directly to Southfield,
Fences
Village approval is required for construction of any
fence, whether decorative or functional.
Fencing is required for pools and deep ponds.
Some fencing in the Village was erected prior to
the enactment of the ordinance. However even
those fences that have been gandfathered, must
be maintained. Failure to maintain fences can
result in fines and penalties.
Driveway Permits
Michigan winters can take a terrible toll on private
driveways. Many residents routinely have driveways seal-
coated or some may be contemplating putting in a new
driveway.
Permits are required for all driveway work_ both
sealcoating and new asphalt. The cost of the permit is
$25.00. The homeowner is also required to post a $1.000
bond to be used should the contractor damage Village roads.
The bond will pay for corrective repairs. If there is no dam-
age, the bond is returned.
Before you contract for any driveway work call the
Village office to obtain a copy of the ordinance and make
sure the contractor is aware of the ordinance_
Recreational Vehicles
Those big RVs sure are fun and make family road
trips an adventure.
What's not so fun is a neighbor
who looks at it stored on the property in the
open.
Village ordinance prohibits the
storage of RVs. boats, trailers, snowmobiles
or unregistered cars outside a garage or
other storage building for more than 12 hours.
Call the Village office for further information.
Senior Prom and graduation are landmark events in
most teenagers' lives. Though these two special moments
symbolize both maturity and pending adulthood. parents must
remember that vhen it comes to drinking, teens are still le-
gally underage.
The Birmingham Bloomfield Community Coalition
along with the other Oakland County coali-
tions in the Alliance of Coalitions of
Healthy Coirununities is again launching
the "Parents Who Host. Lose the Most:
Don't be a party to underage drinking" pub-
lic awareness campaign to help parents con-
sider the dangers of teenage drinking par-
ties.
Simply stated: Parents who provide alcohol to their
children's friends under any circumstances. even in their own
homes. are breaking the law: parent who knowingly allow a
person under 21 to remain in their home or on their property
while consuming or possessing alcoholic beverages can be
prosecuted: and parents can be sued if they give alcohol to
anyone under 21 and they in turn hurt someone, hurt them-
selves or damage property.
Just don't do it.
COMPOST SEASON BEGINS
The seasonal pick up of compost (grass clippings,
twigs. small branches) will begin on Thursday. April 14th and
continue through November.
Compost may be placed in 32-gallon trash containers
marked "Compost" or in brown paper bags that may be pur-
chased at local hardware stores.
Compost materials will be picked up during the regu-
lar rubbish collection on Thursdays.
d
FIRE DEPT OFFERS CPR
INSTRUCTION
The Franklin Bingham Fire Department now offers
instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitation_ This lifesaving
instruction is a must for families and businesses. If a heart
stops beating. chances of survival depends upon how quickly
the victim receives effective CPR_
If you and your friends are interested in taking this
class, please contact Firefighter Tim Adams at the fire station,
He may be reached at 248-626-9862 or e-mail him at
TAdams4FBFD.com_ There is a minimum class size of
eight people,
--t 1d
EARTH DAY FACTS
,
'
NEW PROGRAM TO HELP
FIREFIGHTERS & EMS
HELP YOU
The Franklin Bingham Fire Department is participat-
ing is a program to help people in an emergency It's called
the Vial-Of-Life.
This program is of great importance to those who
require essential, life-supporting medications: diabetics. heart
patients. those subject to seizures etc. In an
emergency there is always the possibility
the F.B.F.D. responding medical team will
lose valuable time frying to ascertain both
the medical history and medications that an
individual is taking. Many times, the pa-
tient may be unable to communicate with
the rescuers causing them to search through counters. cup-
boards and cabinets to find the information.
The Vial-Of-Life is a plastic vial provided by the
Franklin Fire Department at no cost. In it arc forms which
may be filled out with current medical history and medica-
tions. The vial is distinctively designed to fit inside the door
of the kitchen freezer. It also includes a magnetic slicker to
be placed on the outside of the freezer door and window stick-
ers to be placed on or near the entry doors.
The forms should be filled out as completely as pos-
sible and kept current. You can also place the business card
of your regular physician in the vial.
The Vials may be picked up at the Village offices or
at the Fire Department.
For more information. call Firefighter/EMITim
Adams at 248-626-9862.
Have you ever wondered how the celebration of earth
day began?
The first Earth Day international celebration took
place on April 22, 1970 and the United States has been cele-
brating ever since.
It evolved over a period of seven years back in 1962.
Its founder was Senator Gaylord Nelson. who became con-
cerned that the state of the environment was a non- issue in the
political structure of the United States.
But the movement didn't get off
the ground until the Fall of 1969 when
Senator Nelson announced a grass roots
demonstration would take place in April.
1970 and invited everyone to participate.
The wire services carried the
story from coast to coast and that's what
started the entire movement.
Over 20-million people participated in lhat first dem-
onstration and as they say -the rest is history -.
Now there are Srebsi tes promoting all sorts of activities
to celebrate the environment, from planting tree seedlings to
wearing t-shins.
Concern over the environment has gained momentwn
since the inception of Earth Day. Right here in Michigan_ in
our own back yard, is an environmental group called -Friends
of the Rouge". This group continually sponsors many activities
to get people to care about the Rouge River and what goes into
the river. They offer seminars just about year round. They also
are active in monitoring the clean up programs for the Rouge
River.
If you're interested, log on to their website
www.therouge.org and see what's going on.
OR CURRENT RESIDENT
The Bingham Farms Post is
published quarterly by the Village
of Bingham Farms.
Editor: Kathryn Hagman
khaganianditinghamfarms.org
The next edition of the Post is
scheduled for July, 2005. Dead-
line for submission of articles is
June 15. 2005.
All articles must be submitted in
writing to the Village office. The
editing of articles is left to the sole
discretion of the staff.
Website: www.bing,hainfarms.org
Village of Bingham Farms
24255 Thirteen Mile Road #190
Bingham Farms, MI 48025
(248) 644-0044
Presorted Standard
U.S. Postage
P AID
Birmingham. MI
Permit No. 217
41116MMIAMOINIMVPMMUMS
I.. Fall, 2004
It
h‘lli
Wir
410..1
a
FREE AUTUMN
LARGE ITEM PICKUP
THURSDAY
OCTOBER 14, 2004
.1;tA401,' "E
VA,
Af":11„
*sr
zek. kV,*
- 'BE -
F
THE EINGHAH FARMS POST
COUNCIL ADOPTS NEW TREE AND II NEW SAFETY CAMPAIGN WOODLANDS PROTECTION
ORDINANCE KICKS OFF
After many months of work by the Planning Commis-
sion, Design Review Board and Village Council, the trustees
adopted a new Tree & Woodlands Protection ordinance.
One of the most unique characteristics of Bingham
Farms is the amount of natural features found throughout the
Village. With the continued growth and new development or
redevelopment in the Village, there grew more concern that
what makes the Village unique could vanish.
The intent of the ordinance is to promote feasible and
prudent alternatives to the destruction and removal of trees and
woodlands. By protecting these features, the wildlife habitat in
these areas is also protected.
Under the ordinance,
trees of significant size are .
now "regulated". These in-
chide all deciduous trees that
have a six (6) inch d.b.h. , •
(diameter breast height) and Ae.a At- all coniferousconiferous trees that are
20 feet in height or taller.
Removal of any
regulated tree requires notice
to be provided to the Village Administrator. The notice must
identify the tree and planned date of removal. If more than
three (3) regulated trees are to be removed in a two-year or
shorter time period, a Tree Removal Permit must be obtained
and a Tree Replacement Plan will likely be required. If re-
placement trees are required, there are standards established for
the replacement trees; the minimum size is 2 1/2 inches d.b.h.
If new construction is planned for the site, or if more
than 20% of the regulated trees on the site are to be removed,
then a Woodlands Management Plan must be submitted. It is to
identify trees to be removed, existing trees to remain or be relo-
cated. and replacement trees to be planted. This Plan is to be
prepared by a registered land surveyor, registered engineer, reg-
istered landscape architect, or certified arborist or forester. The
Plan must be signed or sealed by the person who prepared it.
The Ordinance allows exemptions for dead or dam-
aged trees resulting from an accident of non-human cause, such
as a natural disaster.
There are several historic trees in the Village. The Or-
dinance provides the means for any resident or property owner
in the Village to nominate a tree for Historic or Specimen nee
designation. The Planning Commission will review the nomi-
nation based upon the age of the tree, type, size and historical
(cont. on Pg. 7)
The Village is always looking for additional ways to
make sure its residents are safe, not only in their homes but on
the roadways. One of the problems is speeders.
Recently, a new campaign kicked off to alert drivers
that children are playing in the area. The Village Council has
authorized new speed limit signs to be placed at strategic loca-
tions throughout the Village. These signs will be in addition to
the existing speed limit signs. The new signs will be placed on
the major roads in the Village.
The Police Chief believes that these signs are visually
different from the normal speed limit signs and hopes that driv-
ers will heed the signs.
The Chief was so impressed with
these signs, he also ordered them for the
Village of Franklin.
One of the main complaints the
Village receives is about speeding and driv-
ers ignoring stop signs. The police regu-
larly patrol the Village and often will sit in
areas and track the speed that people are
traveling.
While the signs are meant to grab the attention of
drivers, it still is up to the driver to obey the posted speeds.
There is something every resident can do to make our
streets safe for everyone. If you notice a car running a stop
sign or feel the car is exceeding the speed limit, try and get the
license plate number and a brief description of the car. Then
call the Franklin Bingham. Police Dept. and talk to one of the
officers. They take these complaints very seriously and will
follow up.
110
defr•
,e • -.qr.__ ••,, • -- -
_
a 7
CASES OF WEST NILE VIRUS
LOWER THAN LAST YEAR.
The cool summer weather seems to have reduced the
number of mosquitoes in the area. To date, no human cases of
West Nile Virus have been reported in Oakland County. The
reporting of dead birds has remained stable. There has been no
spike and that's a good sign.
This does not mean that residents can forget about the
problem. Historically, reports of human cases peak in August
and September.
The infected mosquitoes are still in Michigan. As of
mid August, 193 birds in 56 counties have tested positive for
West Nile Virus.
The reduction of reported cases of
West Nile Virus may be an indication that
people are taking the necessary precautions to
avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
Remember the "Three Ws:"
• Reduce areas where mosquitoes breed
• Repel to protect against mosquitoes and
• Report potential mosquito breeding areas.
If you see any dead birds, call the Oakland County
hotline at 1-877-377-3641. For updates on West Nile Virus,
log on to the state website at :
WWW.raichigan.gov/westniievirus.
The National Elections will take place on Tuesday,
November 9th.
Residents of Bingham Farms vote at Bingham
Farms Elementary School. The polls will be open from
7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
New residents may register to vote at any Secretary
of State office or at Southfield Township
which is located at 18550 Thirteen Mile Road,
just west of Southfield Road. The Township
is open from 8:30 am. to 5:00 p.m.
The last day to register to vote in the
National elections is October 4, 2004,
Election day can also be a day for
people to volunteer. It may be a long day but
the rewards are enormous. All that's needed are interested
people willing to attend a training class prior to the elections.
If you are interested in helping out at the polls, con-
tact Sharon Tischler, the Southfield Township clerk, for
more information at 248-540-3420.
AM.1011111111•1fanir r
I GET OUT AND VOTE
,
The Village of Bingham Farms was incorporated in Sep-
tember, 1955 and will turn 50 years old in September, 2005.
The Village Council is exploring ways to celebrate this
milestone. An ad-hoc committee has been formed to explore
what the Village might do. Dick Holloway, a long-time resident
of the Village, is the chairperson of the committee. He has se-
cured the help of Rosemary Gratch, Joe Lavaty, Gerald Heller,
Dorothy Warren, Mice Laurencelle and Jean Lytle. Bill Gollnitz
is the Council liaison to the group.
Another Council member, Delores Tripp, is working
with several other residents to develop a history of the Village,
hoping to uncover information about what it was like when the
first residents called Bingham Farms home. The first homes in
Bingham Farms were constructed in the late 1800's.
Delores and her group are looking for help. They need
to find people who can share stories of the Village in the early
years, who might have known some of the earlier residents, or
who might give a glimpse of how the Village has grown.
Some residents have already shared the stories of well-
known residents Idce DeLorean, Knudsen and Bingham and icien-
tifitxl the homes they lived in.
If you have a story about the early years of the Village
(and that could be from the 50's, 60's 70's), call the Village of-
fice.
A IINIANIN.
I LARGE ITEM PICK UP SET FOR
OCTOBER 14, 2004
II
ow a
Twice each year the Village schedules a large item pick
for its residents so that they have a means to dispose of items that
are not part of the weekly trash pick up. The next pick up will be
Thursday, October 14th. All items should be placed at the road-
side.
The rubbish contractor brings in extra staff to help load
the large items such as old washing machines, dryers, water tanks,
sofas and chairs.
This pick up is NOT meant for residents to clean out their
entire basements, attics or garage. It seems that every year or so, a
few residents do just this. Several years ago, one resident was
moving, and literally had boxes and other goods lined all the way
down his driveway and half way across the lawn. If there is an ex-
cessive amount of material, Car Trucking has the right to leave it.
If you are moving or are cleaning out large amounts of
unwanted goods, call Car Trucking (586) 791-8480 for a special
pick up. They are very helpful and will advise you whether you
should order a roll-off bin or whether they can do it with a regular
Thursday pick up. There may be a cost associated with this.
With regard to building materials, only one 32-gallon con-
tainer of these materials will be collected.
2
IT'S PICNIC TIME AGAIN LETTER
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Mary Jane Bauer
A 0.1111111166
1 1
M
LE
Fi
lb.
We are now awakened from the air-conditioned hiber-
nation of summer and meeting and greeting our neighbors and
starting some of the strenuous work around the yard. We have
been over to the historic Franklin Cider Mill a couple of times
now for fresh cider and donuts. This is among the rites of au-
tumn along with neighborhood walks and watching the trees
show off their flamboyant new dresses. Have you seen the
splendid old evergreens and deciduous trees that make a walk
worthwhile? We hope that this fall will be one of your favor-
ites.
When walking in the Village, be aware of some safety
tips. Remember, cars have the right of way and pedestrians
must walk on the left side of the road facing oncoming traffic.
That way you are aware of vehicles coining your way. On the
other hand, cyclists must ride on the right side of the road with
traffic and give as much of the road to cars as possible.
When you drive through our Village, keep in mind that
school is in session and it seems that we have a lot more chil-
dren using our roads. Speeding cars are a major concern.
There's a new campaign to make drivers aware of children in
neighborhoods called "Keep Kids Alive, Drive 25." We don't
want anyone harmed by a speeding car.
Every once in a while, a stranger may knock on your
door to sell something or to ask for information or help. If this
appears suspicious, don't hesitate to call our police to check it
out. Response to a phone call is normally within five minutes.
Keep an eye on the direction the stranger is heading. Be secu-
rity conscious.
History is upon us! Our Village turns 50 years old in
2005. Does anyone have any pictures or anecdotes to share
with us? We would like to put something together for our
birthday next year. If you can help, contact the Village office.
Since this is a quarterly newsletter, please be encour-
aged to decorate your houses for Christmas, Chanukah and the
winter solstice. Those darkest days of the year can always use a
little cheer. Salt barrels will again be placed for our use at the
intersections to aid in stopping. Please remember to put the
cover back on the barrel to keep the salt from caking into hard
lumps.
As the indoor social season approaches, your Presi-
dent, Trustees and Professional Staff want to wish you a
Goody-filled Halloween, a Bountiful Thanksgiving, a Happy
Chanukah, a Merry Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous
New Year.
Finally, remember to vote November 9 th at Bingham
Farms School.
To some, Mobile Watch probably sounds mighty
dull. It's driving around the Village on the lookout for prob-
lems that rarely arise. But that's just the business side of
Bingham Farms Mobile Watch.
There's a social side as well, involving a spring ice
cream social, and a wine and cheese Holidayfest in Decem-
ber. The highlight of the year is the aminal Pot Luck Picnic
and Prize Drawing honoring the members of our police and
fire departments
This year was the 12th Annual Pot Luck Picnic,
where over 50 people were served ham and potato salad, dev-
illed eggs and lasagna, baked beans and relishes, and several
desserts as well. With the help of local merchants, prizes
were awarded to all police and fire families, including free car
washes, restaurant certificates, gift bags and flowers, even a
dozen bagels a month for a year? And for Mobile Watch
members, it's a good chance to know them all on a first name
basis.
Yes, there is MOM to Bingham Farms Mobile Watch
then just driving around the Village. If you would hie to do
your neighbors a favor, and have a good time as well, call
Dick Holloway for more information at 248-644-2622.
By Bingham Farms Mobile Watch
EMERALD ASH BORER
PROBLEMS CONTINUE
• I
The problem with the emerald ash borer is taking a
toll in Bingham Farms. After the problem with Dutch Elm
Disease, ash trees were the major species planted To date,
more than 6-million trees state-wide have been infected by the
emerald ash borer. The cost to remove the trees is staggering.
One resident received a quote of 86,000 to remove the trees.
Unfortunately, there are no grants available to assist
the private property owner with the cost of removal or re-
placement Legislators in Lansing are discussing the possibil-
ity of providing tax credits for replacement trees, however, no
decision has been made.
The Village suggests that neighbors get together and
get quotes from several tree removal companies. Perhaps the
companies will give a discounted price. If a neighbor knows
of a good company, spread the information. However, before
hiring any contractor, ask for references and make sure they
are insured.
3
LARGE ITEM PICK UP
REGULATIONS
Date: Thursday, October 14, 2004
Time: All large items at street by 7:00 am.
ACCEPTABLE ITEMS
* Large appliances, furniture and hot water heaters
(Refrigerators & freezers must have freon removed prior to
pick up)
* A maximum of two tires
* Only small tree stumps
* Brush, tree branches must be bundled and the length not to
exceed four feet
* Rolls of carpet and linoleum must be tied together with the
length not to exceed four feet
* Disposal of construction materials is limited to one 32-gallon trash con-
tainer
UNACCEPTABLE ITEMS
* Large tree stumps
* Hazardous waste
* Automotive parts
* Loose gravel
* Large amounts of construction material & loose items
Car Trucking has the right to refuse to pick up extraordinary amounts of
items. If you have any questions, please call Car Trucking at 586-791-8480.
4
UPDATE ON
RECYCLING REGULATIONS
GLASS BOTTLES & JARS
• Clean, NO caps. Labels are OK.
• No window glass, light bulbs, dishes
or ceramic mugs.
• NO broken glass for safety reasons
• NO GREEN GLASS (wine bottles
etc.)
METAL & ALUMINUM CANS, PIE TINS
. Clean. Labels are OK.
• Clean aluminum trays & pie
tins
NO foil
NO aerosol
Place loose metal lids
inside metal cans and
squeeze or leave lids slightly
attached and fold in
PLASTIC JUGS & BOTTLES
• Rinse clean. Labels are OK.
• Flatten, if possible
• NO caps. They are made
of non-recyclable plastic.
• All bottles marked 1
(PETE) or 2 (HDPE) on
bottom, except
* NO wide-mouth
containers such as
margarine tubs, yo
gurt containers or microwave plates.
* NO motor oil containers or hazardous prod-
uct containers.
* NO plastic bags.
• NO containers marked on the bottom with num-
bers 3, 4,5, 6 or 7.
NEWSPAPERS & BROWN PAPER
BAGS
• Newspaper and all inserts (TV guide OK).
Tie with string or place
in brown paper grace!),
bag.
• Do not mix with white
paper, envelopes, junk
mail, magazines or ce-
real boxes
• NO plastic bags or plastic sleeves.
• Cardboard OK - must be broken down & tied.
cannot be any larger than 2' x 3'
GLOSSY MAGAZINES & ADVER-
TISEMENTS
• Magazines - with or without staples
• All catalogues.
• Advertisements on glossy &
semi-glossy paper
• No envelopes of any kind or
junk mail.
• DO NOT mix with newspa-
per.
• Tie securely with string. Place inside bin if it
fits otherwise place on top of recycling bin.
HOUSEHOLD BATTERIES
• All AA, AAA, C, D, button, 9
volt and rechargeable batter-
ies.
Store in a clear plastic bag;
place inside bin.
• NO fire or smoke alarm bat-
teries.
• NO auto batteries
TELEPHONE BOOKS
* Place in recycling bins.
5
VINES TAKING OVER
NATURE
Al
ELECTION CONSOLIDATION
LAW IMPACTS VILLAGE
ELECTIONS
Mother Nature really helped this summer by dropping
sufficient rain to keep lawns and gardens well-watered. With
this plus comes a minus. The rain also nourished weeds and
unwanted vines. There are two types of vines that can be found
throughout the village. They are grape vines and
Virginia creeper.
These vines are opportunistic vegetation
that twist their way through shrubbery, cover tree --;:% •
trunks and ultimately choke the life out of their
hosts.
The big question is how to get rid of
these invaders without hurting the host vegeta-
tion. It's not easy but it can be done.
One way may be the old fashioned way and that is to
cut them near the base and then yank their roots right out of the
ground. Then remove the remainder of the vine as it twists
around the tree or shrub. This may take more than one season
to totally eradicate the vine, but eventually they disappear.
An alternative is to use standard weed killer and spray
it only on the leaves of the vine. If it gets on anything else, they
may also be weakened or die. Don't spray near the roots be-
cause it could also leach into the roots of other vegetation.
It's recommended that every resident check their prop-
erty (even at the roadside) on a regular basis to prevent the vine
from attacking good plants and trees.
Removing the vines will help keep the Village green.
WINTER MAINTENANCE
REMINDERS
Fall is here and that means winter is right around the
corner and that includes the word "snow".
The Village has contracted with Johnson Landscaping
again this year to provide winter road maintenance.
The snow plows are called out as soon as 1 1/2 inches
of snow has fallen on the roads. In heavy storms, the contractor
will plow several times to keep the roads passable.
At other times, the Village will request additional
work when conditions warrant The Village makes a decision
to salt roads based on the assessment of the police department.
In the past, if salting were required, it would be applied to
curves, intersections and hills.
Last year, several residents expressed concern regard-
ing this policy. The Village Council discussed the situation and
agreed a change was necessary. There are several areas of road
in the Village that do not get sufficient sun to melt the ice.
Therefore, these areas will be assessed separately, and when
necessary, salt will be applied wherever it is warranted.
The snow plow contractor, Johnson Landscaping has
been apprised of this policy change and will work in con-
Since 1955, the Village of Bingham Farms has con-
ducted annual elections so residents could voted for the peo-
ple they wanted to rim the Village.
A charter was written that defined the roles of
elected officials, the length of their terms and set the parame-
ters for the Village.
Since that time, trustees serve for a two-year term.
Earlier this year the Governor signed into law the
Elections Consolidation Act The purpose of the Act was to
streamline the election process. This Act designates two
timeframes for elections. School and Village elections will
take place either in September in odd number years or No-
vember in even number years. There is also a provision that
allows special elections at other times
Therefore, there will be no Village election in
March, 2005.
Council is reviewing the options and a decision will
be made prior to the end of the year. Residents will be kept
informed through the newsletter.
junction with the Village and the police department to improve
winter maintenance.
There are several rules that homeowners must know.
The major complaint from the snow plow contractor is
that some private companies just plow the snow from one prop-
erty and push it across the road onto a neighbor's property.
This creates rows of snow across the road. This process is ac-
tually alpinst state law and village ordinance.
The snow that falls on private
property should remain on that prop-
erty. The rows of snow left across the
road can create a potentially dangerous
situation for cars driving down the road
and for pedestrians walking on the
roads. It also creates a difficult situa-
tion for the Village snow plow contrac-
tor.
When contracting for snow removal services, advise
the contractor of the law. lithe contractor is caught, a ticket
will be issued. lithe police see evidence that snow was plowed
across the street, they have the authority to write a ticket to the
homeowner. It is considered a civil infraction and a fine is as-
sessed.
Last year, residents again made great strides in con-
trolling the actions of their contractors and very few tickets
were issued.
6
MINIIMONYMINI
"I
F
FULL TIMER ADDED TO
FIRE DEPARTMENT
The Franklin Bingham Fire Department has hired a
full tune firefighter to meet the changing needs of the com-
munities. The only other full time employee is the Fire Chief,
Tony Averbuch.
Tim Adams is not a stranger to the
fire department or the community. He has
served as a volunteer firefighter in Franklin/
Bingham Farms for almost five years. Dur-
ing that time is also worked part lime for the
village of Beverly Hills as a dispatcher and
a service aide. Adams, graduated from the Fire Academy at
Oakland Community College in 1998 and has been one of the
top responders for several years running.
A normal day at the station involves completing rou-
tine checks on each of the fire trucks, basic maintenance of
the equipment and cleaning. And when that fire call comes
in, he's ready to go.
The Fire Chief noted that the department is run with
36 volunteer firefighters who are unpaid and are people work-
ing during the day. The full time position will help to solidify
coverage.
The villages of Bingham Farms and Franklin are for-
tunate that the fire department has a great group of volunteers
to respond to emergencies.
RECYCLING NEWS Al
There is a full section in this newsletter regarding
Recycling. It has the latest on what can and cannot be recy-
cled.
Bingham Farms' residents have a high rate of recy-
cling. This helps the environment tremendously by reducing
the amount of garbage going into landfills. The amount of
newspaper that is recycled saves thousands of trees each year.
[ VILLAGE OFFICES WILL CLOSE
FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Summer has just ended and it seems way too soon to
talk about the holidays. But December isn't that tar away.
Please mark your calendars. The Village office will
be closed from December 24th through January 1st.
IfitITAP00-10LIOA TS
TREE & WOODLANDS
PROTECTION
ORDINANCE (cont.)
or cultural association.
However, should the designation request be made by
a person who is not the owner of the property, the owner will
be notified in writing about the nomina-
tion. The owner has the right to object
and the tree may not be declared an his-
toric or specimen tree.
Remember, the sole purpose of
the ordinance is to protect the natural fea-
tures of the Village. The trees, the wood-
lands and the streams orate a landscape
that makes the Village unique.
A copy of the ordinance may be
obtained at the Village office.
There are penalties for violations, which are consid-
ered municipal civil infractions.
If there are any questions regarding the ordinance or
permit requirements, call the Village office.
VILLAGE REMINDERS
1
Animal Control
Southfield Twp. provides services to the residents of Bingham
Farms. The Township contracts with A&D Animal Control.
A&D responds to calls for stray or injured animals and road
kill. They even handle skunks and dead deer. They do not
handle bugs or birds and will not climb on top or a building or
up a tree. You can reach them by calling Southfield Ts. at
248-540-3420.
Dogs
The Village receives a few complaints about dog owners not
picking up -what their dog leaves behind_ Homeowners who
do not have animals find it offensive and discourteous.
Invisible Fences
Homeowners are encouraged to check out whether invisible
fences are appropriate for your dog and its personality. The
Village has an ordinance which allows inviable fences in the
side or rear yards. It also requires an adult to be present when
the dog is outside.
Driveway Pennits
The Village requires anyone who is redoing their driveway to
take out a permit, wbich,costs $25.00. The Village also re-
quires a cash bond in the amount of $1,000 to cover potential
damage to the Village roads. If the contractor completes the
job without leaving behind tell-tale asphalt tracks, the entire
bond is returned
7
kr446,1w
4Pir _
4114,
1731
411146,4,,
' - 'AC -
•1 tr.
FALL BUG HUNT
SET FOR OCTOBER 16TH
Friends of the Rouge are looking for volunteers to
participate in the Fall Bug Hunt Volunteers will be assigned
into teams prior to the day of the Hunt. Each team, led by
trained volunteers, will sample two different sites in the head-
waters of the Rouge River Watershed.
Volunteers will sort through samples col-
lected from the stream by team leaders.
The abundance and diversity of the or-
ganisms found at various sites along the
Rouge River provides essential informa-
tion about the health of the waters.
No experience is necessary.
Children over the age of 5 are welcome to participate when
supervised by one adult per child.
Registration is required by October 7, 2004. For
more information call 313-792-9621.
HOMEWORK HELP ONLINE
School's back in session and students are back into
the homework routine. And even if it's nine o'clock at night,
there's always the intemet to help. But what if the informa-
tion can't be found? Or ,what if neither parents nor older sib-
lings can help?
Never fear. Your local library is here with live
homework help online.
The service is offered
to students in Grades 4-12.
Now with just a click of the
mouse, find help in Math, Sci-
ence, Social Studies or English
The service is available
from 3:00 p.m. to midnight.
The sites are staffed
with certified teachers. univer-
sity professors and graduate
school students.
Check it out.
Click on www.baldwinlib.org
Enter grade level and subject and connect to a quali-
fied tutor for up to 20 minutes of live help.
Have more questions? Call the Library at 248-647-
1700.
.e.t #
*fir
FREE AUTUMN
LARGE ITEM PICKUP
THURSDAY
OCTOBER 14,2004 VILLAGE OFFICE HOURS
MONDAY- FRIDAY
9:00 A.M.- 1:00 PM.
OR CURRENT RESIDENT
The Bingham Farms Post is
published quarterly by the Village
of Bingham Farms.
Editor: Kathryn Hagaman
binghamajnich.com
The next edition of the Post is
scheduled for January, 2005.
Deadline for submission of articles
is December 15, 2004.
All articles must be submitted in
writing to the Village office. The
editing of articles is left to the sole
discretion of the staff
[ Website: www.bingliamfarms.org
Village of Bingham Farms
24255 Thirteen Mile Road #190
Bingham Farms, MI 48025
(248) 644-0044
Presorted Standard
U.S. Postage
PAID
Birmingham, ME
Permit No. 217
4011#1 APANAISP•41.11.75,11.MOINSIOI
040k #iff THE LINGHAH FARM POST
Winter, 2005
NEW LAW CHANGES
VILLAGE ELECTIONS
STATE OFFERS HELP ON
EMERALD ASH BORER
Last year, the State legislature passed a law that im-
pacts the Village in two ways: the date when Village elec-
tions can occur and the terms of office for trustees. The law
required that Village elections be held either in September of
odd numbered years or in November of even numbered
years.
Council deliberated the options and after hearing
resident concerns during a Public Hearing held on November
22nd, passed the following resolutions:
I. Village Annual elections will be held in Septem-
ber of odd-numbered years. This means that the next Village
election will be held on September 13, 2005 at Bingham
Farms Elementary School.
2. In order to maintain staggered terms, that the
terms of office for Village elected offices be raised to four
year terms_
The decision to hold elections in September was
threefold:
1. Choosing a November election would mean that
Village residents would go without a vote for more than two
years
2. Inclusion of Village issues in a General election
would place Village issues in a secondary position at the end
of a lengthy ballot and,
3. Should Council choose a November election
date, there would be no opportunity to revert to a September
date for any reason. However, Council has left open the op-
tion to hold elections in November in the future.
What this all means to a Village voter is that the
Village annual election will remain a separate election and be
held on September 13,2005. At that time, residents will be
voting for three trustees.
Council also discussed at length terms of office that
are also impacted by the change in election law. Currently,
the President and trustees are elected for two year terms.
However, with elections now being held every two years, the
question arose whether to keep terms of office at two-year
terms or extend them to four-year terms.
If two-year terms were maintained, residents would
be voting for an entire slate of officers every election. How-
ever, if the terms of office were extended to four-year terms,
council would maintain staggered terms and provide for
some continuity. Therefore, Council passed a resolution that
makes elected offices four year terms.
The elections will still be held at Bingham Farms
Elementary School.
There is not one community in southeast Michigan that
is immune to the Emerald Ash Borer problem. The devastation
is widespread. More than 3000 square miles in southeast
Michigan are infested and more than 5-million ash trees are
dead or dying from the pest.
Governor Granholm directed state agencies to look at
options to help municipalities and
homeowners in dealing with the
financial demands of tree removal
and disposal. The state has agreed
to allow municipalities to take ad-
vantage of the state's bid program
to provide more cost-effective
ways to combat the problem. Tree
companies state wide were invited
to submit proposals based on the
specifications developed by the State. The intent of this pro-
gram is to allow municipalities, private landowners and busi-
nesses to take advantage of cost reductions of the state's bid
list.
All bid proposals were due at the state in early Decem-
ber. The state is in the process of certifying the bicis and will
make this information available to municipalities in January.
The Village is interested in the program and will ana-
lyze the benefits of the program to its residents and businesses.
If it elects to participate, a coordinator will be appointed by
Council to manage the program. The cost of tree removal on
private property will be the responsibility of the homeowner.
The Village will not assume any liabilities that may occur on a
resident's property.
The Village must determine whether the cost savings
are significant enough to undertake the administrative responsi-
bilities in the program.
Residents will be kept informed of the decision process
through this newsletter and the Village website at
WWW. binghamfarms. org,
Several months ago there was discussion at the state
legislature of providing tax credits to homeowners to replace
the ash trees destroyed by the Emerald Ash Borer. However,
this concept has died for lack of support.
For more information on the Emerald Ash Borer log on
to the State's website at www.michigan.gov/mda and click on
"Emerald Ash Borer".
As a result of last winter's snow conditions and
concerns raised by residents, the Council has authorized a
more liberal "salting" policy for Village roads. "Salting"
will be expanded to include all street lengths when required
In the past, the Village would salt only hills, intersections
and curves. This should reduce the difficulties of winter
driving in Michigan.
The contractor is asked
to salt as conditions warrant. The
decision to salt is made by desig-
nated Village personnel and in
conjunction with the police de-
partment The police can call the
contractor directly to have the
roads salted or plowed if a Vil-
lage official is not available.
The Village has continued its snow plow contract
with Johnson Landscaping. They are a local company based
out of Franklin. Their proximity makes for faster response
because they can see the conditions first hand rather than
wait for a phone call. A major question asked by residents
is when do the roads get plowed?
The contractor automatically begins plowing once 1
1/2 inches of snow has accumulated on the road or if the po-
lice have notified the Village that conditions warrant plow-
ing.
Salt barrels have been placed at designated areas
throughout the Village for use in emergency situations.
SNOW PLOW RULES
FOR
HOMEOWNERS
Now, a friendly reminder for homeowners. The
Village has regulations regarding proper snow removal
from private property.
Residents or their contractors are not allowed to
plow snow across a public road_ This means snow that falls
on your property must remain on your property.
With the first snowfall, it's obvious some contrac-
tors continue to plow the snow across the roads. Remind
them this is not allowed! Property owners can and will be
ticketed for violations.
The snow rows that are formed can freeze and cre-
ate a hazard to cars and pedestrians. It also makes it very
difficult for the Village contractor to uniformly plow the
roads.
5,k1
„
• 1.
WHAT TO DO WITH ALL THE
DEER? COUNCIL CHANGES ROAD
SALTING POLICY
IIIMIKISOW.11#110111.11.1.11S
Do you think you're seeing a lot more deer lately? You
are. The deer population in Bingham Farms and Franklin is in-
creasing every year. And it is not easy to control it.
Resident complaints are increasing because deer are now
eating shrubs and flowers. And drivers must be cautious as the
deer can appear out of nowhere and dash across the road.
Why are the deer here? One reason is that urban sprawl
has reduced the areas of habitat for deer. They are adjusting to liv-
ing with new developments. Also, Bingham Farms still maintains
the natural habitat that deer like. The heavily treed areas are a wel-
come environment for deer. It provides plenty of food and shelter.
Along with that, deer are particularly fond of certain flow-
ets and plants, such as impatiens and Japanese Yews. They do not
like marigolds or boxwood.
So how do we try and contain the deer population? One
thing every resident can do is to keep their property free of any-
thing (even bird seed) that hunery deer might eat. If the food sup-
ply disappears, the deer will move away.
Contact the Michigan State Univer-
sity Yard and Garden Hotline at 24-858-
O)2 and ask for their "Guideline for Plants
Damaged by Deer”. It will tell you what
plants deer like and what they don't
Some residents are having limited
success with netting and repellant sprays.
Netting is not particularly attractive, but this might protect some
prize plants. Sprays can repel deer, but most need weekly applica-
tion, and especially after a rain. Possible products include hn-
proved Z.I.P., Arasan 75, Arasan 42-S, Liquid Fence and Shot*Gun
Deer Repellant
Currently, there are no other practical alternatives. Tests
are being done on a chemical to inhibit reproduction, but with little
success to date. Trapping is also being tried, but since deer can
easily jump an eight-foot fence, this is not terribly successful.
Even if a deer is trapped what happens to it. Moving deer to an-
other locality is not a solution. It's just transferring the problem to
another area
A word of caution to drivers. Hitting a deer is costly.
One way to avoid this is to watch your speed. Deer have no con-
cept of cars and will dart across the road with little concern for on-
coming traffic. Keep alert and keep your speed down.
Any hope to move deer out of the Village begins at home.
The best answers seem to be
DON'T FthD!
DON'T SPEED!
From: Southfield Ts. Animal Control
1,4
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
Mary Jane Bauer
MOBILE WATCH SETS NEW RECORD! 3
4
9.
We arc not sure when we've had a nicer October and
November. It meant putting up outside holiday decorations in
relative comfort. Residents and businesses that decorated
your property for the holidays have helped make the darkest
evenings of the winter cheerful and bright. Thanks to you,
Santa had no trouble finding our Village.
The Council has authorized additional salting
throughout the Village when conditions warrant. Salt barrels
are also placed at designated locations to help motorists who
may get stuck. Please remember to put the cover back on the
barrel to keep the salt from caking into a bard lump. Speak-
ing of snow, please read the snow plowing information else-
where in this newsletter. Remember slate law prohibits snow
being plowed across the road and deposited on your
neighbor's property.
There is a new state law that requires Village elec-
tions be held bi-annually in September or November. After a
lengthy discussion, your Village Trustees decided that elec-
tions for Village Cnuncil should be in September. The trus-
tees believe the September date will allow the Village to pub-
licize local issues and have better participation outside of the
general elections, where village ballot issues would be placed
at the end of the state and national ballots. Franklin and Bev-
erly Hills have also decided to hold their village elections in
September.
Bingham Farms is approaching another milestone.
The amount of paperwork now required of villages by our
state, county and federal governments has grown to a point
that our office staff is now working overtime every day of the
week. We are currently one of the few villages working part-
time. The Village Council debated the issue of continuing
part-time employment plus overtime versus full-time employ-
ment and decided that our best interests are served by offering
full-time employment to our Village Clerk and our Treasurer.
The benefits are that we can contain the costs for now, have
access to our Village office during normal business hours and
handle the increased paperwork demands now required.
Finally, we are always looking for volunteers for
commissions and advisory boarcls. If you can help, send a
short letter to the office stating your background and interests.
You may not be called to serve immediately, but your avail-
ability is important to us.
There is little doubt that Bingham Farms Mobile
Watch will set a new record of Village tours taken in 2004.
While a final tally is not yet available, it appears that the
2004 tour count will exceed the prior year by at least 10%!
That should be good news for all, as it means that
more and more Mobile Watch eyes are checking on all of our
homes. That may not be evident, as Mobile Watch merely
drives the Village slowly, without any outer identification
But we are there, assisting the police department by checking
and reporting anything that looks unusual or suspicious.
We are pleased to have welcomed several new
members during the year. leading to the increased tours
taken. Even though many of our members only go out once
or twice a month, it all adds up. We are grateful for every
tour taken, and Police Chief Ed Glomb says we are a real
assist to his department
You could easily be a part of this effort, even enjoy-
ing our monthly get-togethers, complete with detailed police
report and a sweet to eat. No cost to join and no expense to
participate.
Think of it this way. When we are patrolling, we
are watching YOUR house. Shouldn't you be helping?
Call Dick Holloway at 248/644-2622 for more in-
formation.
HAVE YOU CHECKED OUT THE
BINGHAM FARMS WEBSITE?
Get current information on what's go-
ing on in the Village. Access approved meet-
ing minutes from Council, Planning Commis-
sion and Design Review Board.
BE IN THE KNOW.
Log on to www.binghamfarrns.org .
A WORD FROM OUR
POLICE CHIEF
CHANNEL 15 TO AIR SPECIAL
ROUGE RIVER PROGRAM
Dear Resident,
I hope everyone had a great Holiday and I wish everyone a
safe and prosperous New Year. As far as crime is concerned,
2004 was a very good year for the Village and the depart-
ment. We have not yet compiled our crime statistics for the
year, but it looks like a very good, possibly a record year for
the department
However, one area that we continue to have problems
with is traffic control, mainly speeding on our residential
streets, especially Bingham Road, Bingham Lane and Bristol
Lane. We have found through our en-
forcement efforts that many of the viola-
tors we stop are in fact residents. We
need you to slow down.
You have probably noticed our new
speed signs "Keep Kids Alive Drive 25".
We installed these signs to get drivers to
slow down especially since there are in-
creasing numbers of families with young
children moving into the Village.
I know that everyone is in a hurry, it is our nature. How-
ever, as much as I hate having to write friends tickets, the
Council has directed me to crack down on all traffic viola-
tions. So again, please slow down and if you have young
drivers, reinforce that message to them. My officers will be
very active and you don't want to get a ticket.
First of all they are expensive, both in fines and increased
insurance costs. The average fine is over a hundred dollars
and insurance rates can increase by several hundreds of dol-
lars.
Secondly, if you have to go to Court you will be tied up
for half of the day.
So, as the signs say let's keep our kids alive, as well as our
many joggers and walkers, by driving 25.
Happy New Year!
Edward A. Glomb,
Chief of Police
IT I NEED CABLE SERVICE?
If you need cable service contact Comcast Cable at 248-
855-6971 for repairs, billing questions and upgrades.
If you have a complaint about your cable service, contact
the Birmingham Area Cable Board at 248-646-8450 or visit
their web site at
www.birminghamareacableboardorg.
Several special programs are being produced by
Bloomfield Community TV to inform residents about the
need to improve the water quality of the Rouge River.
The next program, which will
begin airing in mid-January, will pro-
vide an in-depth look at the fish habi-
tat in the Rouge. Most of the video qp:8`:.
was shot right around Bingharn Farms,
at the Franklin Cider Mill and Bowers
Farm.
It's packed with information
and brings home the fact that every
single person impacts the quality of the river, from use of in-
secticides to fertilizers. Even the products used to wash your
car eventually end up in the Rouge.
Click on www.birrninghamareacableboardorg and
get the schedule.
WHY ARE THERE NO CHOICES
IN CABLE PROVIDERS?
Comcast Cable is the sole provider of cable TV ser-
vice in Bingham Farms. They have a non-exclusive franchise
which means that another cable company could obtain a fran-
chise and compete with Comcast. So why aren't there more
providers?
Competition is not available in this area for several
reasons. As a result of the mega mergers in the late 90's,
there are fewer cable companies around_ Many of the smaller
operators have been bought up by the major operators.
There is only one company in the vicinity that is
competing with Comcast. The company is called
"WOW" (Wide Open West) and provides service in Royal
Oak, Troy and several other communities that were previ-
ously serviced by AT&T. WOW has indicated that they have
no plans to expand saying they want to concentrate on their
current subscriber base.
Each year, many cable subscribers complain about
the exorbitant price increases and ask what can be done. One
thing a subscriber can do is write to their representatives in
Washington and complain.
The FCC has removed just about all rate regulation
for cable companies saying that there is competition in the
marketplace. The FCC has ruled that satellite providers are
direct competition to cable providers and therefore the mar-
ketplace will control pricing.
• ,• ,
CLEAN WATER
WHAT CAN I DO?
, •
MILESTONE ANNIVERSARY
COMING FOR BINGHAM FARMS
The Village of Bingham Farms will be celebrating its
50th Anniversary. It was incorporated in September, 1955.
To mark this milestone, the Village Council has ap-
pointed two committees to put together projects that celebrate
this occasion.
One committee, headed by Dick Holloway, is work-
ing with Birmingham Public Schools to construct an exercise
path/park at Bingham Farms Elementary School. This project
is still in the developmental stage and has not yet received
approval from the school district.
The committee sent out a survey of Village residents
to determine the level of interest in the park project. More
than 62% of the residents responded and more than 50% sup-
ported the project and would use the exercise path.
The other committee, headed by Trustee Delores
Tripp, is compiling a history of the village. She is working
with a group of long-time residents on this project. Should
any residents have pictures from the early days of the Village,
please contact the office.
WHO MAINTAINS THE MAJOR
ROADWAYS
Many residents have asked who maintains what
roads. Is Bingham Farms responsible for Telegraph Road and
the Mile Roads?
Telegraph Road is a state highway and is maintained
by state funds. However, MDOT contracts with the Road
Commission for Oakland County to perform routine mainte-
nance such as repairs, snow plowing and grass cutting. Major
mad resurfacing projects are handled by the State.
Thirteen & Fourteen Mile Roads are maintained by
the Road Commission for Oakland County. They are respon-
sible for repairs, snow plowing and grass
cutting.
Bingham Farms is responsible for
all the local streets in the Village.
The Franklin Bingham Farms Po-
lice Dept. patrols all the roads, whether
state owned, county owned or Village
owned. They handle any accidents and have the authority to
issue tickets for infractions.
There are over 11,000 inland lakes in Michigan.
There are over 35,000 miles of rivers and streams in
the state.
The Great Lakes hold 20% of the world's surface
fresh water.
On average, a person uses about 77 gallons of water
each day; households use about 200 gallons per day.
Over 3 million people rely on surface water for their
drinking water supply.
These statistics emphasize the need to keep our wa-
ters clean.
One of the major sources of
pollution comes from fertilizers be-
cause the chemicals ultimately get
into open waters or storm drains
which all empty into lakes, streams
and rivers. When fertilizer is ap-
plied to lawns it also fertilizes the
waterways. While fertilizer is good
for the lawn, it's bad for our water.
Everyone must be aware of the cumulative affects of individ-
ual lawn care practices.
There are simple ways that will protect the water-
ways.
1. Sweep fertilizer and grass clippings that fall on
sidewalks and driveways back onto the lawn. This prevents
fertilizer from getting into storm drains.
2. Mow high. Make your lawn cheaper and easier to
maintain_ Three inches is recommended. Tall grass promotes
root growth and shades out weeds. Clippings recycle nutri-
ents back into the soil, so fertilizer needs can be reduced by
25 percent or more.
Everyone benefits from clean water. Let's do our
Pan-
1,
DRIVEWAY PERMITS
REQUIRED
It's the middle of winter and probably the furthest
thing from anyone's mind is driveway repairs. However, it is
the right time to remind residents that driveway permits must
be obtained from the Village office.
The cost of the permit is $25.00 and a $1,000 cash
bond must also be provided to obtain the permit. The bond
requirement is to provide the Village with funds to make any
repairs to the road as a result of private driveway work.
There are many contractors who are sloppy and leave
asphalt trails all the way down the road. This defaces the
chipseal covering the Village has on its roads.
If no damage is done, the entire bond is returned.
• • •
• • ,1"...'6,,,,MMAICKOIMIVIVI,Stbr.s,--trrwr.P.7.3.1,R411M1441,..RORIVI.,..,61,6,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
4
SNAPSHOT OF VILLAGE
ORDINANCES
TIME TO TEST YOUR
SMOKE DETECTORS
ti
1r
Recreational Vehicles
With winter finally here, many people enjoy the out-
doors with recreational vehicles like snowmobiles. Outside stor-
age of any unregistered vehicles of any type, including recrea-
tional vehicles and trailers is prohibited
Horne Renovations
If you're planning on adding on to your home, a permit
is needed and approval from the Design Review Board is re-
quired.
Check with the Village early in your planning process so
your project keeps moving forward.
Contractor Signs
It seems to be a common occurrence when contractors
begin a job in a home, automatically their sign goes up in the
front yard. This is not allowed in the Village and is considered a
violation.
When a contractor is chosen, tell them "NO SIGNS".
The Village does receive complaints from residents and often the
police are asked to tell the homeowner to remove the sign. This
applies to landscape companies, paving companies and home re-
modeling companies.
Rubbish Pick Up
Car Trucking handles all refuse and recycling collec-
tions in the Village. Collections are each Thursday starting at
700 a.m.
Garbage should be placed in containers or in strong
plastic bags and placed at the roadside not more than 12 hours
prior to pick up. All containers shall be removed within 24 hours
after pick up.
If a holiday falls on a Thursday, collections will be on
Friday.
Really, when was the last time you tested your
smoke detectors?
Last month? Last year? Can'
remember'?
If you're not sure your smoke
detectors are working, then how can you
be sum you'll be protected if a fire
breaks out?
Don't gamble with your life
and assume your smoke detectors are working. Test each
one, every month, so you'll know they'll be ready to protect
you and your family if there ever is a fire.
What's Going On In The Village?
If you want to keep tabs on Village activities, log on
to the Village website at www.bing,hamfarrns.org .
There you will find the latest approved Council
meeting minutes as well as Planning Commission and Design
Review Board minutes.
Check it out.
OR CURRENT RESIDENT
The Bingham Farms Post is
published quarterly by the Village
of Bingham Farms.
Editor: Kathryn Hagaman
E-mail:
khagaman@binghamfarms.org
The next edition of the Post is
scheduled for April, 2005. Dead-
line for submission of articles is
March 15, 2005.
All articles must be submitted in
writing to the Village office. The
editing of articles is left to the sole
discretion of the staff.
Village of Bingham Farms
24255 Thirteen Mile Road #190
Bingham Farms, MI 48025
(248) 644-0044
Presorted Standard
U.S. Postage
PAID
Birmingham, MI
Permit No, 217
FISCAL NOTE (MISC. 105190) September 22, 2005
BY: FINANCE COMMITTEE, CHUCK MOSS, CHAIRPERSON
IN RE: WEST NILE VIRUS FUND REIMBURSEMENT FOR PROJECT IN THE VILLAGE OF
BINGHAM FARMS - FISCAL YEAR 2005 ALLOCATION
TO THE OAKLAND COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Chairperson, Ladies and Gentlemen:
Pursuant to Rule XII-C of this Board, the Finance Committee has
reviewed the above referenced resolution and finds:
1. Funding of $487.70 is available in the West Nile Virus Fund
for FY 2005 to reimburse the Village of Bingham Farms for
this project; no additional appropriation is required.
2. The Committee recommends adoption of this resolution.
FINANCE COMMITTEE
FINANCE COMMITTEE
Motion carried unanimously on a roll call vote with Crawford absent.
'
4f *
Resolution #05190 September 1, 2005
The Chairperson referred the resolution to the Finance Committee. There were no objections.
4
Resolution #05190 September 22, 2005
Moved by Moss supported by Gregory the resolutions on the Consent Agenda, be adopted (with
accompanying reports being accepted).
AYES: Coleman, Coulter, Crawford, Douglas, Gershenson, Gregory, Hatchett, Jamian, KowaII,
Long, Melton, Middleton, Molnar, Moss, Nash, Palmer, Patterson, Potter, Scott, Wilson,
Woodward, Zack, Bullard. (23)
NAYS: None. (0)
A sufficient majority having voted in favor, the resolutions on the Consent Agenda were adopted (with
accompanying reports being accepted).
••••••••
I NM APPROVE TIE FORME RESOLUTION
712-elo%
STATE OF MICHIGAN)
COUNTY OF OAKLAND)
I, Ruth Johnson, Clerk of the County of Oakland, do hereby certify that the foregoing resolution is a true and
accurate copy of a resolution adopted by the Oakland County Board of Commissioners on
September 22, 2005, with the original record thereof now remaining in my office.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the County of Oakland at
Pontiac, Michigan this 22nd day of September, 2005.
Ruth Johnson, County Clerk