Beautification Commission

STERLING HEIGHTS BEAUTIFICATION COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Monday, January 8, 2018 Chairman Gary Isom called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioner’s present: Henrietta Baczewski, Anita Blanco, Gary Isom, Manny Gonzales, Nancy Kijek, Brittany Koski, Sharon Mason and Ruthann Schinzing Commissioner’s absent: Steve Duncan, Robert Ljucovic, Debbie Travis and Joyce Tye Other present: Bridget Kozlowski, Community Relations Director Sue Giallombardo, Neighborhood Services Specialist Approval of Minutes: Motion to approve Minutes of the Sept. 5, 2017 meeting, amended to show that Steve Duncan was in attendance, by Schinzing; Seconded by: Mason Ayes: all Nays: none Agenda Items: A. Election of Officers (Chairperson, Vice Chairperson)  Isom opened the floor for members to make nominations for Chair and/or Vice Chair. Kijek nominated Isom for Chair; Seconded by: Mason. Isom nominated Mason for Vice Chair; Seconded by: Gonzales. Blanco nominated herself for Chair or Vice Chair; Seconded by: Isom.  Commission members voted. Isom was elected as Chair and Mason was elected as Vice Chair. Congratulations to Isom and Mason. B. Adopt-a-Road Clean-up  Giallombardo stated that at least four commission members should be available for the Adopt-a-Road clean up dates. She added that members meet at Walsh Elementary at 9:00 a.m. and clean the roadside between 17 Mile and Metro Parkway.  Kozlowski suggested trying to have a road clean-up after a meeting, as it's still light out and members are already at City Hall.  Blanco suggested asking outside volunteers to help. Isom stated that the task doesn't take that long, less than an hour. Isom tabled the item for discussion in the Spring.  Giallombardo will send out reminder e-mails prior to each date to ensure at least four members can participate. C. Potential Summer Projects   Isom suggested that the commission members set up a table at a farmer's market to sell seedlings as well as 50th Anniversary merchandise for the city.  Isom also suggested that members volunteer when possible to help at 50th anniversary events throughout the year.  Giallombardo stated that she will work on securing donations for flowers to be planted at the Children's Garden at the library, as in years past. She is hoping to get extra so that some flowers may be planted around the Upton House too.  Kozlowski stated that the official city birthday celebration will take place on Thursday, June 28th., at Dodge Park. This will be the night of the first Farmers Market, Concert in the Park and opening of the park. Isom suggested having a tree planting ceremony . Kozlowski stated that the city will be removing mature trees to clear the way for the new Recreation Center, adding that she will talk with the DPW staff about how to get involved with the replanting of any of the trees. Old Business: None. New Business:  Kozlowski stated that Karen Kazmer has retired from the city and that Giallombardo has been promoted to a slightly different role within Community Relations. Because of the new role, Giallombardo will be re- assigned to different committees and will no longer be the liaison to the Beautification Commission. Kozlowski added that the Spring Shine day will be held on May 5th, and commission members are encouraged to participate.  Isom asked about the policy regarding commission members that have been absent for consecutive meetings. Giallombardo stated that if a member misses three consecutive meetings, she will send a letter asking for their resignation.  Schinzing asked if the commission will be participating in the Memorial Day Parade and if so, is anyone interested in building a float. Isom stated that the float takes many, many hours and is very difficult to do with a small group, and a strong commitment must be made. It was decided that the commission members would decorate Isom's pick-up truck for the parade; with the theme centering around the 50th anniversary and patriotism. Giallombardo will follow up on seed packet donations.  Isom re-addressed the seedlings, and suggested that they be handed out at a Farmer's Market. He also suggested selling the seedlings, with the hope that by doing so, they would actually get planted. Koski suggested picking a general area in the city to plant some of the seedlings, or ask residents to sponsor a tree. Isom stated that if the resident didn't agree to plant the seedling at home then the commission members will plant it. Adjournment: Motion to adjorn the Beautification Commission meeting at 6:45 p.m. made by Kijek; seconded by Gonzales. Ayes: All Nays: None