* Any opinions expressed are those of Mr. Guenther and do not necessarily represent the collective view of the CVHA and/or its individual members.
From the City Council Meeting, Monday April 15th
Last nights council meeting only lasted 2 hours. This was a rarity. It started with comments from the public. The notable one was that the city should not be blamed for foreclosures. That is the job of Oakland County. They offer help in avoiding this. Contact the Oakland County Treasurer for help.
There were 3 reappointments. The consent agenda was approved. The ones standing out were the agreement with Kimmie Horn Productions, LLC to arrange The Kimmie Horn Jazz Festival at the Southfield Municipal Campus- August 9 and 10. The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation - request use of the municipal campus front lawn and walkways for their annual 2.6 mile run. The capital improvement plan. Which include Fire House renovations and exercise equipment. Replace Police Body Vests, obtain license plate readers. They want to purchase an automatic vacuum and replace some of the linoleum in the Pavilion.
The Public Hearings were approved. the first was for Drifter Vans LLC to open a sales room, to sell custom camper vans already built on site. he vans are being purchased from Ford. The second request was rom Tots Academy Home day Care to operate a group Care Home. This requires a state license. $ people came up in support of this request. There is going to be another marijuana store on Northwestern Highway. Several people got up to speak against it. It was approved by a 5-2 vote.
Jazz in he Library starts tomorrow night. The 66th city anniversary will be celebrate on April 28. That is all I Have to report. Log onto the Southfield City website to find out more events and news. Harmen
From the City Council Meeting, Monday March 25th
Last nights council meeting started off with the Southfield Fire Department Honor Guard presenting the colors. Eleven new fire fighters were sworn in. Chief Menifee gave a moving speech welcoming the new officers. He also mentioned that a hockey match between the Fire Dept. and the Police Dept. will be held on April 7th at 1pm at the ice arena.
During the communications section, some of the owners of liquor stores , and their supporters spoke against gas stations being allowed to sell liquor. `While numerous other people spoke for the idea, stating the convenience of the sale.
During the public hearing portion of the meeting, 4 items came up for their second reading. It seems we are getting a Panda Express on Telegraph Rd. Another car wash on Telegraph and 9 Mile rd., A request of the Philippine American Culture Center to refurbish a vacant church on Lahser Rd. A special use request to reuse a vacant former restaurant and bar/lounge on Southfield Rd. This would cater to an older crowed with karaoke and ball room dancing with a live band. Some very exciting developments.
The most discussion was held with the request to permit liquor sales at the gas station on Greenfield and 10 Mile. The owners of the liquor stores and their attorneys gave presentations as did the owners of the gas station with their attorneys. They cited the dangers of people drinking and driving and the idea that minors would be able to get hold of liquor. The lawyer for the gas station rebutted that. Council President stated that our Police Chief has seen no increase in accidents or drunk driving arrests in areas where gas stations have sold booze. Considering that liquor is tightly controlled by the state and a license costs over $400,000 it would seem almost impossible. The council voted to allow the request to move forward. It was a long meeting.
From the City Council Meeting, Monday March 5th
Last nights council meeting was long. They appointed a new deputy city clerk, they reappointed 4 members of the Planning Commission and made an appointment to the city Center Advisory Board. !9 people were reappointed or newly appointed to different commissions. Me being one that got reappointed to the Total Living Commission.
Irv Lowenberg, our city Treasurer, gave a presentation from the county treasurer, on how to prevent foreclosures. If you have not paid your city taxes the bill has been sent to the county. You have till April 1 to pay or your residents will go into foreclosure. You will be charged a 4% administration fee on top of 12% interest. After which time your residence will be auctioned off. The auctions will be held from July till August. Call the county treasurer at 248-858-0611 or http://www.oakgov.com/treasurer to get assistance.
5 items were on the Consent Agenda for discussion. Cornerstone Plaza proposed a Facade renovation to attract new tenants. Panda Express wants to build a new restaurant at 2901 telegraph Rd. The Shell Gas Station at 24839 Greenfield Rd. wants to add alcohol sales. The Philippine American Cultural Center wants to reuse a vacant church at 23800 Lahser. A night club wants to renovate a lower building area of an existing building for a new restaurant/nigh club catering to a older crowd. Finally, the owner of the building at 23055 Telegraph wants to build a new car wash, with solar panels, EV charging stations, and the ability to recycle the water. All these items will be up for discussion again in 2 weeks.
The Police Dept. is looking for volunteers to join its Police Academy. This is a exciting program, where you learn the operation of the department, including the dispatures' job, a demonstration by the K9 unit, and the overall function of the dept. I would recommend this course to anyone. There will be a Job Fair tomorrow ,in the Pavilion from10am till 2pm. These will not only be for city jobs but for some outside co. Om March 8th there will be a senior vendors fair from 10am till noon. On March 20 the DSO will perform at 7pm. Tickets are $15. All for now Harmen.
From the City Council Meeting, Monday January 29, 2024
The meeting started off with a sad note. The husband of our city clerk, Janet Jackson, Bill Latimer, former city councilman, passed away suddenly. After the Pledge of Allegiance, 2 notable appointments were made to the Downtown Development Authority, David Dedvukaj, manager of the construction co. building up Northland. Greg Eastrly, general manager of wjbk, and fox news. Trina Irvin was named Deputy City Assessor.
Several pieces of art are going to be installed around our city. The Key will be on Lawrence Tech. property, on the corner of 10 mile and the Lodge Freeway. The Brother will be installed at 9 mile and Beech, and the 9 mile Crossing will be installed at 9 mile and the Southfield expressway surface drive. Many art works are going up all over the city. If you log in to the city website you will find a link to view all of them.
February is Black History Month. The Library is hosting a
, exhibition of the role Southfield played in the underground railroad. It is 1-31-2024. from 6:30 to 8 pm. Parks and rec will have a program in the pavilion on Fib. 3rd.
A Public Hearing was held on the Zoning Change, Special Use Request, and Site Plan Review on behalf of Sam Jwad, D. Best, LLC, to permit the building an addition and addition of a liquor sales and carry out restaurant. Several people spoke against this citing the availability of young people to purchase booze. Someone finally pointed out that the state allows liquor sales from gas stations and that it is highly regulated. This passed with a few comments from the council, by a vote of 5-1. Interesting meeting and it did not last to long.
Terry Croad, city planner, was awarded a plaque for his work with the American Society of Landscape Architects Michigan Chapter. Lawrence Tech. s offering a summer camp, July 15th- July 19th, 2024. for sophomores and juniors. For more information visit ltu.edu/summer-camps/.
From January 24, 2024
----- Forwarded Message -----
From: Representative Rashida Tlaib <mi12rt.outreach@mail.house.gov>
To: "harmeng@aol.com" <harmeng@aol.com>
Sent: Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 01:12:33 PM EST
Subject: From Holding DTE Accountable to Shutting Down Line 5
12th District Strong! News from your Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib
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News from Representative Tlaib
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Thank you for reading this important e-newsletter. To ensure you are getting updates from our office, please click here to subscribe. If you are already subscribed, please click here to ensure we have your updated information.
From Holding DTE Accountable to Shutting Down Line 5
Dear 12th District Neighbors,
I hope you are well and staying warm. Please be careful out there. I know the roads are still pretty bad in many communities.
Below, please see the number of issues I worked on this past week that I know are very important to many of you. Our team this week had some big wins for our residents through our work at the Neighborhood Service Centers that I wanted to share with you all:
- We were able to recover a delayed 2020 tax return for a family in the amount of $6,243 with $870 of that being interest!
- We also strongly advocated for a resident to get a refund of $659.60 from SSA due to them prematurely taking health care insurance premiums from her. She was so grateful. Every dollar is needed for many of our families.
- A seasoned citizen contacted our office in December regarding his utilities. He was without utilities since March of last year. We were able to escalate his case with Wayne Metro Community Action Agency. His services were restored and he received $1,085.00 toward his account.
Helping you and your family get through everyday challenges is a major priority for us. We want to change lives every day. Thank you to all who trust us to help.
Yours in Service,
Rashida Tlaib
Member of Congress
Bringing the District to D.C.
People Before Profits: DTE Must Do Better
It is clear that DTE cares more about their profits than delivering quality service to its customers. DTE has some of the highest rates in the nation, but provides some of the most unreliable service, all while spending millions on political contributions to avoid accountability. They also carry out hundreds of thousands of cruel utility shutoffs per year. During the recent extreme cold, over a hundred thousand DTE customers in Southeast Michigan were forced to go days without power and heat. This is unacceptable and we must hold DTE accountable. We need utilities that serve the people, not shareholders. This starts by always calling them out when they aren’t doing their part to invest in the grid that is critical in protecting our residents from power outages.
You can watch my speech on the House floor here .
Protect the Great Lakes: Shutdown Line 5
Protecting our water is so critical. This is why I am not backing down in shutting down Line 5 no matter if it’s Democrats or Republicans trying to advocate on behalf of a greedy so-called Canadian-based energy corporation. I appreciate all the advocates around the State of Michigan and the world for their strong advocacy. The Bay Mills and Bad River Band advocates met with my team and me to discuss how we can push the Biden Administration to do their part in protecting our Great Lakes.
Congresswoman Tlaib meeting with Bay Mills and Bad River Band advocates on Line 5.
Hands off Our Bodies
Here they go again. Now they want to target our daughters on college campuses. Instead of focusing on infant mortality, child care, fully funding our WIC programs and other critical services for mothers in our country, they want to control our bodies instead. If they truly cared, then they would ensure our children are not at risk of gun violence (the leading cause of death among children in our country), ensure that child poverty is being addressed and more. I will never remain silent when it comes to women and their right to access all forms of health care and this includes access to abortion care and reproductive freedom.
You can watch my speech on the House floor here .
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Founders’ Day
Happy Founder’s Day to my sisters of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. I was joined in celebration by my fellow Zeta colleague in Congress, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager Dove. From educational initiatives to advocating for social justice, this sisterhood has fostered academic excellence and empowerment in our communities. May Zeta Phi Beta Sorority’s commitment to excellence and service continue to inspire us all.
You can watch my speech on the House floor here .
Congresswoman Tlaib with Zeta Soror Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager Dove.
Working Hard at the People’s House
Labor Caucus: Delta Workers Have a Right to Form a Union
I joined the Congressional Labor Caucus to hear from Delta workers with the Machinists Union, Teamsters, and Delta Association of Flight Attendants as well as AFA President Sara Nelson about their ongoing union organizing efforts to give workers a voice on the job. Unfortunately, Delta has engaged in disgusting union-busting including interference, retaliation, and suspension of their employees who are leading these efforts. Every worker deserves a union and the power of a collective voice. I will continue to work to protect our workers.
Congresswoman Tlaib at the Congressional Labor Caucus meeting with Delta workers .
No More Endless Wars: Ceasefire Now
You may have seen that the U.S. has begun bombing Yemen, and is risking escalating this crisis into a regional war. Prior to the Israeli government’s assault on Gaza, Yemen was facing the worst humanitarian crisis on Earth, with much of the population living on the brink of starvation. President Biden was legally required to seek authorization from Congress prior to launching these strikes and his failure to do so violates the Constitution. Many of my colleagues, both Democrats and Republicans, have correctly called out the White House for bypassing Congress. The American people do not want to be dragged into yet another endless war.
You can watch my speech on the House floor on Yemen here .
Congresswoman Cori Bush and I also held a vigil at the Capitol for all of the journalists who have been targeted and killed by the Israeli government in Gaza in the past three months to honor their lives and their work. Gaza is the deadliest place in the world for journalists and their families, according to the UN and over a hundred journalists have been killed. The Israeli government must be held accountable for these war crimes.
Congresswoman Tlaib at the Vigil for Journalists in Gaza.
Protecting Our Migrant Neighbors
Congress must face the fact that we haven’t made real changes to our immigration laws in 28 years. It's clear that our immigration system is broken. Immigrants are not bargaining chips, and I’ve been disgusted by how elected officials in Washington are willing to sacrifice people fleeing poverty and violence and seeking a better life for their families for petty political gains. We need real changes and solutions that are promoting humane and fair immigration laws. I will continue to fight for legal immigration pathways that uphold our responsibilities under international human rights law.
You can watch my speech on the House floor protecting the rights of migrants and asylum seekers here .
You can also watch my remarks on immigration in the Oversight and Accountability Committee here .
We Must Invest in Our Communities, Not War
Why is it that year after year, our government spends billions of dollars on weapons and war? Every year, my colleagues and powerful people in Washington tell me that there’s no money for lifesaving programs to address hunger or poverty, only to turn around and pass another record-breaking military budget, giving $886 billion of our tax dollars to fund bombs, weapons, and war crimes—no questions asked. Our out-of-control military spending means the needs of working families in our districts are neglected. The GOP has made it clear that they want to cut funding for Social Security, Medicare, TANF, SNAP, and WIC. The American people deserve better. I attended a press conference to advocate for better allocations of our federal budget, to ensure that the needs of everyday families at home are prioritized.
Congresswoman Tlaib at a press conference to protect Social Security, Medicare, TANF, SNAP, and WIC.
Legislative Advocacy Update!
One of the key ways we advance good policy for our district is by cosponsoring bills and cosigning letters. Here’s an update on just a few of the bills and letters we have supported recently:
Legislation Cosponsored
• Prescription Drug Price Relief Act: This bill introduced by Rep. Khanna (CA) will lower sky-high prescription drug prices for Americans. The legislation will put an end to Big Pharma’s greed, reduce premiums, and save lives by requiring the Secretary of Health and Human services to identify excessively priced drugs and allow generic drug manufacturers to make cheaper versions of them.
• Protecting Benefits for Disabled Veterans Act: This bill introduced by Rep. Waters (CA) would make the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Individual Unemployability program – which compensates disabled veterans unable to maintain employment – permanent. Over 3.5 million veterans live with a service-connected disability, and we owe it to them to ensure they can live good lives here at home.
• Funding Early Childhood is the Right IDEA Act: This bill introduced by Rep. DeSaulnier (CA) would restore full funding for the IDEA Act, which provides early childhood services for young children with disabilities. Early childhood interventions are crucial for a child’s development, and every child, regardless of disability status, should have an equal opportunity to obtain high quality early childhood services.
• Expanding Access to Telehealth Act : This bill introduced by Rep. Sherrill (NJ) would permanently safeguard Medicare beneficiaries’ access to physical therapy services rendered via telehealth. Doing so will ensure and protect access to care, improving patient health outcomes and providing much-needed stability in the physical therapy field.
• We’re Addressing the Realities of Menopause Act: This bill introduced by Rep. Blunt Rochester (DE) would help women and health care providers get the menopause health information, treatment, and research they need to promote healthy aging. This bill would create a menopause public awareness program, and invest in medical education, research, and training.
• FAIR Act of 2023: This bill introduced by Rep. Walberg (MI) protects our civil liberties by restricting the use of civil asset forfeiture, a controversial practice of seizing individuals’ private property that has been abused by law enforcement and condemned by a bipartisan group of lawmakers and advocacy organizations. This bill is a significant step towards establishing clear regulations and limitations on civil asset forfeiture and promoting due process.
• Veterans Service Organization Modernization Act: This bill introduced by Rep. Waters (CA) would establish a facility renovation grant program for Veterans Service Organizations. These renovation and modernization grants would be issued to VSOs to help maintain and refurbish infrastructure and facilities that veterans rely on.
• DOULA for Veterans Affairs Act of 2023: This bill introduced by Rep. Davis (NC) would establish a pilot program within the VA to provide pregnant and post-partum veterans access to doula services to foster better child and maternal health outcomes.
• FAIR Act: This bill introduced by Rep. Connolly (VA) would provide a 7.4% pay raise for federal civilian employees in 2025. The federal government currently employs more than 2 million people in every state and territory, and these workers deserve a raise just like you all do.
Congressional Letters
• Letter Supporting a Ban on Stock Trading by Members of Congress: This letter led by Rep. Craig (MN) urges House Leadership to bring a bill to the floor for a vote to end stock trading by Members of Congress. The appearance that Members of Congress are benefiting financially from their positions is eroding faith in our democracy, and our residents deserve to know that their elected officials aren’t making decisions with their stock portfolios in mind.
• Letter Opposing Postal Rate Increases: This letter led by Rep. Cleaver (TX) to the United States Postal Service raises strong concerns about yet another impending postal rate increase, from 66 cents to 68 cents, the fourth increase in eighteen months. This letter asks the USPS to halt rate increases and complete a full assessment of how rate increases have impacted mail volume and threatened the long-term viability of the USPS.
• Letter Supporting Healthy Options for School Meals: This letter led by Rep. Brownley (CA) encourages the U.S. Department of Agriculture to add plant proteins to the USDA’s approved foods list for school lunches. By adding a greater variety of nutrient-dense protein options to school lunches, the USDA can improve school lunch nutrition, meet the dietary needs of students with allergies and other dietary restrictions, and support a diversified set of American farmers and producers.
• Letter Supporting Head Start Programs: This letter led by Rep. Schiff (CA) supports pay and benefit increases for Head Start employees and expanded mental health services for Head Start students, families, and employees. The letter also encourages the Biden Administration to ensure that Head Start programs have sufficient funding to support these new requirements without cutting services or programming.
• Letter Urging Appointment of Postal Board of Governors Members: This letter led by Rep. Raskin (MD) urges President Biden to swiftly nominate and confirm two qualified and dedicated Postal Board of Governors Board Members. Under Trump-appointed Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, postal rates have increased and service delivery performance has declined as his mismanagement continues to hurt the Postal Service. Nominating two new members to the Board will help provide checks on DeJoy’s power as we work to strengthen the Postal Service for decades to come.
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CALLING ALL ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS: Valentine's Day Cards for Veterans
If your school is interested in participating with the donation of letters and or Valentine’s Day cards, please let our office know by COB Friday, February 2nd. We are beyond excited to partner with students of the 12th District for this special celebration of our community’s veterans! For those who are participating in the “Valentines for Vets," our office will collect all cards by Monday, February 5th. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our office by phone at 313-463-6220.
Free Vaccine Clinic
If you would like to receive a vaccine free of cost, call 313-923-1655 to set up an appointment. Vaccines will be received at 7800 W Outer Dr. Detroit mi 48235.
Having issues with DTE? Join a DTE Ratepayer Clinic!
Are you facing issues paying bills, being threatened with a shutoff, facing frequent outages, or having other problems with DTE? The Sugar Law Center and the Michigan Environmental Justice Coalition are here to help. Join them on Wednesday, January 31st at the Stoudamire Center at 4401 Conner, Detroit, MI 48215 for the DTE Ratepayer Clinic. You will have the opportunity to meet 1-on-1 with trained customer advocates to navigate your DTE issues. Free food and free childcare will be provided for all clinic participants. If possible, RSVP in advance using this link .
Need Michigan Medicaid or MIChild Healthcare Coverage?
Have you lost eligibility for Michigan Medicaid or MIChild? The Enrollment Assistance Program (EAP) has people who can help. During the COVID-19 pandemic, states were able to stop reviewing eligibility for Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and couldn't remove anyone who was enrolled in this coverage. As of February 1, 2023, states are allowed to restart those reviews. This means some adults and children may lose their Medicaid or CHIP coverage starting April 1, 2023.
EAP is here to offer free help. You can schedule an appointment or ask questions by visiting https://www.healthcare.gov/ . or calling 1-800-318-2596.
Oakland SAVES Grant Program
Oakland County will collaborate with Michigan Saves, the first nonprofit green bank in the United States, to make at least 1,000 Oakland County homes more energy efficient, reducing energy costs for working families.
The $5 million program will have two tiers of grants: $4 million in total grants for income-qualified households and $1 million in total grants for any household.
Some of the home improvements that are eligible for the grants include insulation, weather stripping, ENERGY STAR HVAC, doors, and windows.
Applications for the Oakland SAVES grant program will open Monday, Jan. 22, 2024.
Before applying on Jan. 22, you must:
1. Familiarize yourself with the program guidelines.
2. Obtain a quote from an authorized Michigan Saves contractor for the qualifying energy efficiency or renewable energy improvement you require. This is required information for the application. Use “Find Your Contractor” tool for assistance.
For more information visit michigansaves.org/oaklandsaves/ .
Are you a returning citizen (formerly incarcerated individual) looking for work?
If you are a Detroit resident who has been involved with the legal system, SER Metro-Detroit, Jobs for Progress is offering a training program that helps prepare you to enter the skilled trades. Graduate with four significant certifications and earn up to a $700 stipend upon completion of an 8-week program. Must be 18 years or older. Call (313) 945-5200 ext. 42999 or click here for more information.
Small Business Administration Working Capital Loans Available in Michigan
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) are available in Michigan for small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private nonprofit organizations with economic losses due to excessive rain and flooding that occurred June 13 through Sept 7, 2023.
Disaster loan information and application forms can be obtained by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (if you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services) or sending an email to DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov . Loan applications can be downloaded here .
Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.
Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than July 3, 2024.
Job Fair in Detroit
Cody High School is hosting a job fair on Friday, February 9, 2024, from 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the school. The first portion of the fair from 1:30 p.m. to 3:20 p.m. is for students, and the second portion, from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., is for students' families.
This event will provide local businesses and organizations with a platform to connect with our enthusiastic and capable young people eager to gain employment opportunities. For more information, email andrea.jackson@detroitk12.org.
You Can Soon File Your 2023 Taxes!
Starting January 29th, 2024, you can begin filing and processing your 2023 taxes. Visit IRS.gov for more information. Income-qualified residents can also visit accountingaidsociety.org/no-cost-tax-preparation/ for no-cost tax preparation services.
Evacuation Support, Stay Up to Date on Alerts from the State Department
If you know of a family in our district that needs help, please let them know we are here to do everything possible to share resources for evacuation support and to bring eligible home.
For updates regarding evacuations please click here .
If you require emergency assistance while in Israel, the West Bank or Gaza, contact the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem by email (JerusalemACS@state.gov ).Individuals seeking to depart Gaza through the Rafah crossing into Egypt should monitor the Palestinian General Authority for Crossings and Borders’ Facebook Page for a list of those approved to cross.
U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents, or immediate family who desire our assistance and have not already provided their information to the Department of State, please email U.S. Embassy Jerusalem at JerusalemACS@state.gov with a copy of the individual’s travel document as well as an explanation or proof of relationship. You can find more information about evacuations here. My team and I are here to help, please do not hesitate to reach out if you are a resident of the 12th Congressional District. My team can also help connect anyone outside our district to their Representative for assistance.
Please also be advised of the following travel advisory for Lebanon, available at this link .
For more information visit our website here .
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Washington, DC Office
2438 Rayburn
House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
Phone: (202) 225-5126
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Detroit Central Neighborhood
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7800 W. Outer Drive.
Detroit, MI 48235
Phone: (313) 463-6220
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From the January 8, 2024 City Council Meeting
Last nights City Council meeting started out with the swearing in of Yolanda Haynes as the newest member, replacing Linnie Taylor. She was greeted with a lot of family and friends.
On the consent agenda was the renewal of Fred Zorn's contract as City Administrator. He has done an excellent job running the city, coordinating all the different departments.
Jason Hodkins and Samantha Steckloft, our house representatives in Lansing, gave a report of what they are working on and have accomplished in the house legislature.
Several items are coming up. The MLK peace walk is on Jan. 15 starting at 9 am from Hope United Methodist Church. Jan 25 COSTCO is opening their business store at Northland. With a ribbon cutting at 7 am.
The meeting was shorter than expected because everyone wanted to go see Michigan win the National Championship. GO BLUE. Harmen
From December 31, 2023
This has been an exciting year for me and my family. My turning 80 and having my family throw me a memorable party, receiving a proclamation from the city, and having Margi Mason take over as President. I wish to thank you all for supporting me all these years. It has been a pleasure to serve as your President. I am not going away completely as I will still attend the council meetings and report what is going on in the city. Please follow the CVHOA website and check the Southfield City Website for what is going on. HAPPY NEW YEAR to all. Harmen
From December 28, 2023
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Dear Friend –
What a year it’s been! In 2023, our new Democratic majority in the Michigan Senate delivered on the priorities that previous Republican majorities would not act upon, including: tax relief, worker protections, gun safety, reproductive freedom, civil rights, and a historic budget.
My office has been especially busy working hard for our Senate district this year, passing more bills into law than any other legislator.
Please consider making an end-of-year donation to support this work. (More on that later in this email.)
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Dear Friend –
What a year it’s been! In 2023, our new Democratic majority in the Michigan Senate delivered on the priorities that previous Republican majorities would not act upon, including: tax relief, worker protections, gun safety, reproductive freedom, civil rights, and a historic budget.
My office has been especially busy working hard for our Senate district this year, passing more bills into law than any other legislator.
Please consider making an end-of-year donation to support this work. (More on that later in this email.)
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I know this is a longer email, but I hope you’ll save it to read about the critical work I’ve led to expand voting rights as Chairman of the Senate Elections and Ethics Committee.
Ahead of the important elections in 2024, we have successfully implemented early voting options, strengthened election security, and expanded voter access.
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Implementing Proposal 2’s early voting options
Michigan voters overwhelmingly supported expanded voting rights in Proposal 2 in 2022. Together with our Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, election administrators and voting rights advocates, my committee drafted the laws to implement:
- 9 days of in-person early voting before Election Day
- Easier ways to sign up to receive and track your absentee ballot
- Required ballot drop boxes in each community
- Due process to correct ballot submission errors
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Strengthening election security
We also learned the lessons from 2020 to eliminate the chaos and conspiracies used in a failed attempt to overturn a free and fair election. We passed legislation to:
- Provide clear details on the procedures and timeline of the duties to certify the election
- Allow absentee ballots to be processed before Election Day, just as 38 other states do, to expedite the accurate reporting of results when polls close
- Protect our election workers from intimidation and harassment
- Restore truth on the campaign trail by tackling new forms of AI tactics that are intentionally designed to deceive the electorate
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Expanding voter access
When the previous majority introduced dozens of bills to reduce access to the ballot box, Gov. Whitmer vetoed all of them. Our new majority presented her dozens of bills to reduce barriers to voting, including:
- Offering citizens automatic voter registration upon any transaction at the Secretary of State’s office or state agency
- Expanding our online voter registration system that allows applicants to conveniently register to vote online at the Secretary of State’s website
- Pre-registering qualified 16- and 17-year-olds to become voters upon their 18th birthday
- Repealing the suppressive 1895 ban on hiring transportation to help voters get to the polls on Election Day
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As our work in 2023 comes to a close, we are prepared for the elections in 2024. But I still have one ask of you before we ring in the new year.
We are approaching our first end-of-year fundraising deadline since we took the majority in the Michigan Senate. If you support our work, now is the time to chip in and help us remain successful in the year ahead.
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From December 21, 2023
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Transcript: Hey everyone! It's Robert Wittenberg, Oakland County Treasurer, and as we're getting to the end of 2023, I just quickly wanted to say Happy Holidays to everyone. Happy New Year! I can't believe it's going to be 2024, but I wish you all nothing but the best in 2024. Health, happiness, success. Thank you for your partnership.
Holiday Office Closure
The Oakland County Treasurer’s Office will be closed the following days in observance of the federal holidays.
Delinquent Property Taxes Deadline Approaching
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In our ongoing effort to prevent residential and commercial property tax foreclosures, Oakland County residents and business owners with unpaid property taxes from 2021 and prior years are subject to foreclosure and were visited by Oakland County Treasurer's Office contractors beginning on October 23, 2023.
Our contractors provided personal notice and a very important information packet regarding the foreclosure process, hearing dates, upcoming deadlines, payment options, and available resources and assistance.
We encourage everyone to pay their delinquent property taxes by April 1, 2024. Failure to pay your delinquent taxes or contact our office for assistance may result in the loss of your property.
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Schedule a Taxpayer Assistance Meeting
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The Oakland County Treasurer’s Office holds confidential Taxpayer Assistance Meetings by phone for Oakland County residential and commercial property owners. If you cannot pay your 2021 and prior property taxes in full, schedule a Taxpayer Assistance Meeting from December 2023 through February 2024 by using the button below or contact our office for assistance.
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Repayment Schedules and Partial Tax Payments
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If you have a repayment schedule, it must be reviewed each year. Please continue making your monthly payment and contact our office at (248) 858-0611 as soon as possible.
Partial payments are accepted and encouraged if you cannot pay your balance in full.
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Oakland County Treasurer’s Office Donates $250,000 to the Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency
Oakland County Treasurer Robert Wittenberg, accompanied by Chief Deputy Treasurer Jody Weissler DeFoe and Deputy Treasurer Jill Robinson, recently presented a donation of $250,000 to the Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency (OLHSA) to support foreclosure prevention programming.
Image Caption (from left to right): Heather Zeigler, OLHSA, Director for Health, Housing & Nutrition, Robert Wittenberg, Oakland County Treasurer, Kay Simmons, OLHSA, Associate Director for Housing, Jody Weissler DeFoe, Chief Deputy Treasurer, Brad Michaud, OLHSA, Chief Financial Officer, Jill Robinson, Deputy Treasurer, and Susan Harding, OLHSA, Chief Executive Officer
"We are pleased to continue our partnership with OLHSA and significantly contribute to their mission to empower individuals and families to achieve self-sufficiency and financial stability. Through their community-focused assistance and education programs, including financial literacy, property tax foreclosure prevention, economic security, and emergency assistance programs, OLHSA’s critical and excellent work is making a meaningful impact throughout our community.” – Robert Wittenberg, Oakland County Treasurer.
OLHSA has been dedicated to combatting poverty since its inception in 1964 and offers a variety of educational and assistance programs, including the Home Preservation and Mortgage and Property Tax Delinquency and has HUD Certified Housing Counselors that provide individual counseling sessions, information on homeowner's rights and responsibilities and options to avoid foreclosure when possible.
The donation funds are from the negotiated legal settlement of the Bowles v County Of Oakland et al. The donated funds are surplus from property tax foreclosure sales; no taxpayer funds were donated.
Oakland County Land Bank Launches New Brand Identity
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We are excited to announce the unveiling of the new brand identity and logo for the Oakland County Land Bank Authority (OCLBA). The new logo reflects our mission to enhance our county through innovative and inclusive economic and community development strategies while helping to facilitate the productive reuse of land.
The logo's vibrant modern design represents unity and collaboration with our partners and community members. We are committed to serving as a catalyst for positive change. Stay tuned for more updates on our work to support economic development and help revitalize communities and neighborhoods.
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2024 Financial Empowerment Arts Contest Call for Entries
The Oakland County Treasurer’s Office is pleased to continue the annual arts contest in partnership with Oakland Schools, Flagstar Bank, and the Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency.
Oakland County public high school students are invited to submit 2-D, multi-media and video art related to the importance of financial empowerment. Thanks to the sole financial sponsorship from Flagstar Bank, winners and honorable mentions from each grade will receive significant cash prizes from a prize pool totaling $10,000.
For more information, visit oakgov.com/treasurer.
Dog Licenses Required in Michigan
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It’s time to obtain a license for our furry friends! All dogs must be rabies vaccinated and licensed beginning at four months of age per Michigan State Law. Oakland County dog licenses are good for a calendar year (January – December). The year can be found above the serial number on the front of the tag.
Licenses may be purchased online at https://www.oakgov.com/community/pet-adoption/pet-adoption-center, at the shelter’s front counter from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday or at most city/village/township municipal offices and numerous veterinary offices. For more information, visit the Oakland County Pet Adoption website at https://www.oakgov.com/community/pet-adoption/pet-adoption-center.
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2023 Annual Reports
Earlier this year, annual reports for the Treasurer’s Office and the Oakland County Land Bank Authority were published. If you haven’t had an opportunity to review the reports, please click the images below.
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Have an upcoming event that you want me to attend? Please email Zinnia Kallabat at kallabatz@oakgov.com.
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From December 18, 2023 City Council Meeting
The meeting started off with Delores Flagg, previously recipient of the Walk A Mile Proclamation, being awarded the Greg Kennedy Community Service Award. Ms. Flagg taught art for 19 years, received many awards for her leadership roles in many organizations, including the MLK walk. Many of her friends were waiting to take her picture receiving this award, which delayed the proceedings.
There were eight items on the consent agenda, notably the resignation of Linnie Taylor from the Council. In the Council portion of the agenda it was announced that Yolanda Haynes would take her place. Ms. Haynes was the next highest vote getter in the last election. She will finish Mrs. Taylors term till 2025.
The authorization to Seek Food Waste Elimination Study was approved. It was found that 40% of food was is wasted by residents and restaurants. It was suggested that people should save their leftovers and not throw them in the garbage to be taken to landfills. Southfield will coordinate with homeowner associations to help implement the program.
The Southfield Police Dept. had a very successful gun buyback program, with all the guns collected being destroyed. The City Clerk is looking to hire Election Workers. Any one 16 or older can apply.
Any of you who was in Southfield Lathrup High School Band will remember Damien Crutcher. My wife and I were attending a concert of the Farmington Concert Band, which Mr. Crutcher is the director of. They're next concert will be March 17 at 3pm at the Hawk Community Center. All you band alumni who would like to see Mr. Crutcher in action, please attend. That is all for now. Harmen
From December 18, 2023
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Delivering Results for 12th District Strong!
Dear Neighbor,
As we approach the end of the year and end of first session of the 118th Congress, I want to highlight some of our achievements this year and throughout my time in Congress. With your support, we were able to deliver so much for our families—from our Neighborhood Service Centers putting millions back into residents’ pockets to our Community Project Funding investing millions in building our communities. We’ve held hundreds of meetings, helped thousands of constituents, responded to hundreds of thousands of constituent letters, and passed 39 bills and amendments in Congress.
You can watch my 2023 recap on the House floor here .
Please feel free to call my office at 313-463-6220 if you are ever in need of any assistance.
As always, it is truly an honor serving you. See you in the New Year!
Sincerely,
Rashida Tlaib
Member of Congress
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From December 12, 2023
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Shut Down Line 5, Growing Ceasefire Movement and More
Dear Neighbor,
As I walk onto the House floor, I am reminded of what Pastor Bland Jr. said to me once: “We are not a country that is divided, but a country that is disconnected.”
I work every single day to bring our communities together and center my work on uplifting our shared humanity. I do it in part by working alongside movements for affordable housing, access to water, racial justice, health care for all, peace, immigrant rights, economic justice, and so much more. Spending countless billions on weapons and wars makes it harder for all of us to thrive here at home. We will never stop advocating for the resources our communities and families need. Thank you all for your incredible faith in the work I am doing.
I hope you find this week's update helpful. Resources are shared at the end of our update. Please feel free to share this information.
Always in Service,
Rashida Tlaib
Member of Congress
Working Across our Communities
Celebrating Hanukkah at Congregation T’chiyah
Happy Hanukkah to our Jewish neighbors in #12thDistrictStrong and beyond. May this be a time of love and community for you and your loved ones. Thank you to Rabbi Alana Alpert for inviting me to Congregation T’chiyah’s menorah lighting. It was a beautiful ceremony and gathering.
Congresswoman Tlaib with Rabbi Alana at Congregation T’chiyah’s Hanukkah celebration.
West Outer Drive Block Club Holiday Party
It was such a pleasure to celebrate with residents and families at the end of year holiday party with the West Outer Drive Block Club. It is an honor to represent this community in Congress, and I had such a great time with members of our community. Thank you for having me!
Congresswoman Tlaib at the West Outer Drive Block Club Holiday Party.
Speaking to Our Future Leaders
It was wonderful speaking with the 11th Grade Language Arts Class at Western High School, as they complete their research essays on rhetoric and pathos. These students are our future leaders, and it is always a pleasure to connect with our young people.
Participate in EPA’s Virtual Public Hearing on Lead
Lead impacts every community across our nation and our congressional district. That’s why I created the Get the Lead Out Caucus to advocate for funding and necessary resources for our communities to protect our water and public health. The EPA is hosting a virtual webinar to hear public comments about the proposed changes to the Lead and Copper Rule. I invite residents and community stakeholders who advocate for water to join and share your comments on the proposed changes. You can register for the January 16th hearing here and learn more about the changes here .
At the People’s House
Environmental Justice Meeting: Shut Down Line 5
I met with the Oil and Water Don’t Mix Coalition, a group of Michiganders and environmentalists, to talk about the disastrous proposal for the Line 5 pipeline that was just approved at the state level. Line 5 is a pipeline that lies on the bottom of the Straits of Mackinac and transports thousands of barrels of oil and gas every day. One thing we know about pipelines – they break – and when they do, our water, natural resources, and public health pay the price. I’m grateful for these advocates coming by my office to discuss strategies to reject this dangerous plan for Line 5.
Dream.org Meeting
It was wonderful to meet with Michigan advocates with Dream.org last week to discuss their efforts to end mass incarceration in America. Our nation has the highest number of people in prisons in the world, dwarfing the prison populations of dictatorships like Russia and China and irreparably harming countless lives in the process. I’m proud to work with Dream.org and others to move our country away from prison-first policies and towards solutions that are proven to make our communities safer.
Doctors for Ceasefire & Rebuilding Alliance
Advocating for an end to violence shouldn’t be controversial. Thousands of innocent Palestinians have been killed by the collective punishment of Gaza. I joined doctors from our district in front of the Capitol to call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. As medical professionals, they shared their personal experiences, and many of them have lost dozens of close family members. I will continue to advocate for peace and permanent ceasefire, so that no more lives are lost, no matter their faith or ethnicity.
You can watch my remarks here .
Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib at the Doctors for Ceasefire Press Conference.
Rebuilding Alliance
Rebuilding Alliance met with me about the need to help evacuate families in Gaza. One family lost over twenty of her family members while the rest are sheltering in a church in Gaza. Individuals seeking to evacuate should monitor the Palestinian General Authority for Crossings and Borders’ Facebook Page for a list of individuals approved to cross. For updates regarding evacuations from the State Department please click here . My team and I are here to help, please do not hesitate to reach out if you are a resident of the 12th Congressional District. My team can also help connect anyone outside our district to their Representative for assistance.
The Censure of Congressman Jamaal Bowman
The MAGA-controlled House shamefully voted to censure my friend Congressman Jamaal Bowman recently. My Republican colleagues are desperate to distract from the fact that they have done nothing to improve the lives of the American people. So now, they’re trying to shift the focus by baselessly attacking Rep. Bowman to score cheap political points. Their inability to govern is obvious to the American people. They can’t even find enough Republican votes to pass a budget or keep a Speaker.
This is yet another attempt to silence a person of color in this chamber. But I know that Rep. Bowman will not be bullied and will continue speaking truth to power. You can watch my floor speech here .
Congresswoman Tlaib speaking on the censure of Congressman Jamal Bowman.
Legislative Advocacy Update!
One of the key ways we advance good policy for the district is by co-sponsoring bills and co-signing letters. Here’s an update on just a few of the bills and letters we have supported recently.
Bill Co-sponsorships
● Rent Relief Act: This bill would create a tax credit to help rent-burdened households with rent on a monthly basis. The bill would bridge the gap between income and rents by covering the difference between 30% of household income and the cost of rent plus utilities. The credit would be available to families earning up to $100K to include cost-burdened renters living in high-cost areas.
● Predatory Lending Elimination Act: This bill sponsored by Rep. Garcia (IL) would fight predatory lending by capping interest rates on most consumer loans and extending the protections for active duty servicemembers in the bipartisan Military Lending Act to all Americans. The bill would count junk fees towards the interest rate cap to crack down on corporate greed.
● End Hedge Fund Control of American Homes Act: This bill would put an end to the harmful practice of hedge funds buying up and owning single-family homes, because Americans shouldn’t have to compete with billion-dollar corporations to purchase a home. In 2023, hedge funds have purchased more than 27% of single-family homes. This bill would prevent hedge funds from continuing to purchase single-family homes and require them to sell homes under their ownership.
● Menopause Research Equity Act: This bill sponsored by Rep. Clarke (NY) would bolster federally funded menopause research and address the unique challenges faced by women experiencing menopause by requiring the National Institutes of Health Director to evaluate completed and ongoing research pertaining to menopause, perimenopause, or mid-life women’s health.
● Healthy MOM Act: This bill sponsored by Rep. Watson Coleman (NJ) would protect the health of pregnant individuals and newborns by ensuring that all women eligible for coverage through the Affordable Care Act insurance marketplaces, as well as women eligible for other individual or group health plan coverage, can access affordable health coverage during their pregnancy.
● Protect the Vote Act: This bill sponsored by Rep. Lee (PA) strengthens Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act by requiring courts, when hearing challenges to election laws, to consider whether the law has a disparate impact on members of a protected class. This legislation is especially vital in light of recent appellate court decisions that erode the protections of Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act.
● Inclusive Democracy Act: This bill sponsored by Rep. Pressley (MA) would end felony disenfranchisement in federal elections, guarantee the right to vote for citizens with criminal convictions, and ensure that incarcerated citizens have access to information about voting. Felony disenfranchisement is biased, counterproductive, and deters eligible voters from civic engagement.
● Students and Young Consumers Empowerment Act: This bill would strengthen the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s ability to protect borrowers, prevent fraudulent and misleading actions by unscrupulous organizations seeking to exploit students, and preserve the integrity of the student loan marketplace and access to affordable higher education.
● Farewell to Foam Act: This bill would promote environmental protection and justice by banning impossible to recycle Styrofoam food service products, loose fill (like packing peanuts), and disposable coolers not used for medical purposes. The bill would reduce the harmful foamed plastic polluting our waterways, communities, and even our bodies.
● Resolution Honoring International Days of Peace and Cooperation: This resolution sponsored by Rep. Williams (GA) recognizes the ways our international community comes together each year to promote diplomacy, peace, coexistence, and cooperation.
● Strengthening Capacity for Disaster Resilient Territories Act: This bill sponsored by Rep. Velazquez would require FEMA to create a program to identify and address specific capability gaps and challenges that U.S. territories like Puerto Rico experience while conducting recovery activities after a major disaster.
Congressional Letters
● Letter Urging Secretary Blinking to Withdraw U.S. Support for Armed Foreign Intervention in Haiti: This letter led by Rep. Pressley (MA) expresses concern over the United States’ role in authorizing an armed foreign intervention in Haiti and urges negotiations for a Haitian-led democratic political transition. The letter supports calls from the National Haitian American Elected Officials Network and over 90 civil society, faith-based, humanitarian, peacebuilding, and diaspora organizations to prioritize a negotiated political resolution to Haiti’s current crisis.
● Letter to Federal Trade Commission on Kroger Merger: This letter led by Reps. Lee (CA) and Jayapal (WA) urges the FTC to carefully scrutinize the proposed merger between Kroger and Albertsons – two of the largest supermarket chains in the United States. It is critical that the FTC enforce our antitrust laws to protect consumers, protect jobs, and push back on the corporate greed driving prices up.
● Letter to Treasury on Safeguards for Hydrogen Tax Credits: This letter led by Rep. Raskin (MD) urges the Treasury Department to implement strict guardrails for hydrogen tax credits in the Inflation Reduction Act that ensure only renewable energy sources are used to generate hydrogen energy. The letter reinforces environmental justice principles, and is especially important in light of hydrogen development coming to Michigan.
● Public Comment Letter to ATF re: Reducing Domestic Violence Gun Crimes: This letter led by Rep. Dingell (MI) urges the ATF to protect our communities by taking action to close loopholes that could allow perpetrators of domestic violence to purchase and possess firearms.
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Are you a returning citizen (formley incarcerated individual) looking for work?
If you are a Detroit Resident who has been involved with the justice system, SER Metro-Detroit, Jobs for Progress is offering a training program that helps prepare you to enter the skilled trades. Graduate with four significant certifications and earn up to a $700 stipend upon completion of an 8-week program. Must be 18 years or older. Call (313) 945-5200 ext. 42999 or click here for more information.
Small Business Administration Working Capital Loans Available in Michigan
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) are available in Michigan for small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private nonprofit organizations with economic losses due to excessive rain and flooding that occurred June 13 through Sept 7, 2023.
Disaster loan information and application forms can be obtained by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (if you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services) or sending an email to DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov . Loan applications can be downloaded here .
Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.
Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than July 3, 2024.
Mental Health Resources for O ur Families
Many of our residents are overwhelmed right now with grief. You are not alone. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, please reach out to someone who can help. Contact these mental health resources in our district to be connected with someone who cares. Please see the below graphic for mental health resources in Michigan.
Evacuation Support, Stay up to Date on Alerts from the State Department
For updates regarding evacuations please click here .
U.S. citizens seeking to be evacuated, should complete the State Department’s crisis intake form, or call 1-833-890-9595 (toll free) and 1-606-641-0131. When completed you’ll receive pertinent information on steps and instructions for assistance (please make sure to check your spam and junk folders). Residents should also enroll in STEP to get up-to-date safety and security information. My team and I are here to help, please do not hesitate to reach out if you are a resident of the 12th Congressional District. My team can also help connect anyone outside our district to their Representative for assistance.
For more information visit our website here .
Legal Aid for Veterans
Lakeshore Legal Aide now offers in-house legal assistance at the Detroit VA Hospital. To qualify for Free Legal Aid Services, Veterans must be unhoused, at risk of being unhoused, or low-income.
Office Hours are every Thursday from 9:00 AM -4:00 PM at the Detroit VA Medical Center in Room A1012, located at 4646 John R Street, Detroit, MI 48201.
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Washington, DC Office
2438 Rayburn
House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
Phone: (202) 225-5126
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Detroit Central Neighborhood
Service Center
7800 W. Outer Drive.
Detroit, MI 48235
Phone: (313) 463-6220
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From December 4, 2023 City Council Meeting
Last nights city council meeting was very interesting. The chamber was filled with the Southfield High School football team. First Mayor Siver appointed Molly Malon as the new director of the Southfield Downtown Development Authority Director. Helping her he appointed Dr. Micheal Weiman, ( heads of Providence Hospital) to the DDa. The Mayor then read a proclamation honoring the Southfield football team for being the Division 1 Champions with a record of 13-1. The coach (Aron Marshal) was also named coach of the year. As is the norm, the recipients shake the council members hands. It took almost 5 minutes for the team to do this and exit the room. After all the excitement it was down to normal business.
The Consent Agenda was quickly passed. The Public Hearings were for several brownfield initiatives. The Habitat For Humanities 3 lots on Westland, they want to build 3 duplexes, needs relieve for this project. The former Art Moran Dealership wants help with their brown field efforts to turn the dealership into a car wash. The development & reimbursement agreement for Northland City center will be brought back to council on Dec. 18th. The apartments are scheduled to open in Jan. 2024.
The next agenda item that came up was in information item that should interest us. Kroger, Evergreen Plaza, wants to build a gas station island where the empty bank building is located. we went through his several years ago when they wanted to tea down the 3 stores in front of the center. They have to go through the Planning Commission Process and hearings before it comes back to council. I'm sure the gas stations across the street sre going to fight this.
Tonight Santa is coming to town and the tree will be lit. This happening at 6pm. There will be chocolate, ice carving and other activities in the pavilion. On dec.11th the Menorah will be lit after a parade from Stevenson School this starts at 5:30pm. The Mayor announced that The Big Rake is done for the year. They had a total of 314 volunteers and cleaned up 119 yards. He gave thanks for all the help. As I mentioned at the beginning it was a exciting meeting. Harmen.
From November 27, 2023 City Council Meeting
Starting off last night's council meeting several people spoke about propositions one and two that were on the ballot. They wanted an apology from the council for putting this question on the ballot. Maintaining that the proposals were voter suppressant, as were many previous laws in our history.
There were four appointments approved. We have a new Purchasing Agent, Members of the Library Board, the Retirement Board, and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority.
A resolution was presented to condemn the violence in Palestine. The resolution will be sent to our representatives in Washington
We had 10 public hearings, consisting of a zoning request, a special use request, and a site plan review from Matick Southfield Properties to convert their dealership into a car wash. The next one was from LAEL Investments to convert an existing building into a gas station, convenience store with liquor sales and EV charging station. this would be located at the corner of 12 Mile and Northwestern. It would be an improvement for this corner by eliminating a dangerous cut through. Bacco Ristorante wants to add to its restaurant with a smoking lounge and bar. They would add outdoor seating and a smoking lounge separate from the dining area. Tele-Nine Plaza wants permission to change the 5 existing spaces into office spaces for executive, administrative, and professional offices. The Dept. of Public Works wants to build a new storage building at its site on Clara Lane. I spoke to Mr. Ray about replacing our 12 mile fence. He is still looking for funding.
Coming up, on Dec.5th. will be the tree lighting and arrival of Santa. there will be refreshments served in the pavilion. There is a survey on the city's web site about the changes at Beech Woods Park. Check it out. Southfield High won the division one football championship. Congratulations to them. That is all Harmen
From November 20, 2023 The Inauguration of New City Council Members and Officials
It pays to check the Southfield City Website. Last night was the Inauguration of the newly elected council members and city clerk. It started with the presentation of colors by the Southfield Police and Fire Dept. Honor Guard. Kimmie Horne sang the National Anthem. The Master of Ceremonies was Charlie Langton from Fox 2 Detroit. The Honorable Chief Judge Shelia R. Johnson Performed the Oaths Of Office, Nancy Banks, Daniel Brightwell, Charlie Hicks, Coretta Hough, and Michael Mandelbaum were sworn ibn as newly elected council members. Janet Jackson was sworn in as the new City Clerk. Mayor Kenson Siver made a few remarks bout the way the city is run with the council and mayor working together. After the ceremony the regular meeting took place. Ari Mandelbaum was re-elected, by the council, to be President of the Council for another year. Nancy Banks was elected to be President Pro-Temp. We then went to the Pavilion to enjoy a buffet style dinner, and greet old friends. Harmen
From November 20, 2023
Happy Holidays everyone, It has been an exciting year for me. We have a new President for our association. Margi Mason has agreed to take over this job. She has already created a web site, CVHOA.org, where you can log on to pay your dues, meet the board members, volunteer for various jobs, and read what is going on at City Council meetings at Harmen's corner. I still plan to attend the meetings. I was honored at the Oct. 23 meeting to receive a resolution honoring me for being President of CVHOA for 25 years.
We are always looking for volunteers to help us. Pat Beck retired from being Maintenance Chairperson, so we are looking for volunteers to help take care of the 8 gardens that are in our control. Pat took care of these gardens on her own, for which we fore ever grateful,
If you are new to our neighborhood, please be aware that you are now a member of our association. We have a welcome package from the city and a folder containing our by-laws, deed restrictions and other pertinent information. Your seller should have left these papers for you. If not we provide them on a pdf format. So contact us.
The city is having a tree lightning ceremony on Dec. 5th from 6pm to 8pm in front of city hall. The Southfield High School band and dancers will performed hot chocolate will be served. Of course the big thing is that Santa will arrive. Hope to see you there.
It has been an honor to be your President for 25 years, but age and physical limitations tell me to give some one else the opportunity to lea. Margi Mason will do an outstanding job. Harmen Guenther
* Any opinions expressed are those of Mr. Guenther and do not necessarily represent the collective view of the CVHA and/or its individual members.