Neil Johnston

The meeting focused on approving the amended minutes of the previous regular meeting, where the Chairperson clarified her role in resolving a subscriber issue with Comcast. Key agenda items included approving three PEG Grant requests: one not exceeding $249.99 for the Beverly Hills Public Safety Department to purchase a TV monitor, one not exceeding $4,725.42 to NEXT for technology maintenance software, and one not exceeding $24,524 to the Baldwin Public Library for a complete website redesign. The Board discussed the PEG Grant fund availability, noting that almost $100,000 of the budgeted $120,000 had been spent. Committee reports covered the BACB website redesign RFP development, focusing on stakeholder definition and marketing needs, and noted that the discussion on revising municipal rebate hold-back percentages would continue. The Executive Director's report detailed the closure of four recent subscriber complaints involving Comcast and AT&T. Additionally, the Board discussed industry updates, including the FCC's new On-Line Dashboard, the repeal of Net Neutrality rules, potential broadband price hikes, and Comcast's upcoming international channel additions. The Board also reviewed equipment upgrades for the Birmingham City Hall Commission Room and discussed ongoing audio issues at the Beverly Hills Council Chambers.

This Concept Plan and Design Guidelines document for the Beverly Hills Town Center aims to transform an aging commercial strip into a vibrant, mixed-use hub of activity. The plan provides implementation tools and design principles across street, building, and district elements to promote the Village's unique character, enhance its economic base, and elevate the quality of life. Key objectives include creating a distinct identity, improving pedestrian and vehicular connectivity, optimizing parking, and integrating green spaces, fostering a cohesive and attractive Town Center.

The meeting included discussions and a public hearing regarding zoning text amendments for generators and HVAC standards, focusing on rear yard placement, setbacks, noise levels, and operating hours. The commission considered excluding holidays from permitted operating hours but determined it would be difficult to enforce. Concerns were raised about existing generators complying with the new standards. The commission also discussed raising the maximum noise level to 70 dB. The Village Council will review the animal ordinance at its upcoming meeting. There will be no Planning Commission meeting in October due to a conference, and November and December meetings will be scheduled earlier due to the holidays.

The meeting addressed several key initiatives and events. The board recommended Village Council approval for the 2026 Java and Jazz series and the continuation of the Concert in the Park series and the Sculptures in the Parks program. They also recommended continuing Food Truck Mondays. The board finalized the 2026 Village sponsored events dates and discussed the Art in the Park Slow Roll/Stroll and Movie in the Park events, including factors affecting attendance and potential improvements. Updates were provided on the Save the Trees initiative, handicap parking design, buckthorn eradication, and the Riverside Park bid. The board also discussed a potential Holiday Tree and Lighting Ceremony sponsorship and improvements to the park's gazebo space.

The meeting included discussions and recommendations regarding requests from Tie Michigan Teal and the Village Woman's Club to waive pavilion fees, as well as a request from Next to waive pavilion fees for their Oktoberfest event. The board discussed the use of ClickBid for electronic donations, the upcoming Art in the Park Slow Roll/Stroll event, Halloween Hoot event, and the Concert in the Park series. Updates were provided on the playground, the Wendbrook property being recognized as a park, and the appointment of the new Public Safety Director. Board members discussed tree trimming, tennis court maintenance, park ranger duties, spraying and buckthorn removal efforts, and the Sculptures in the Park program.