Following are excerpts from the Barton Bulletin, the  
     newsletter of Barton Hills Village.  For additional
     information or to inquire about attachments.
   contact the Clerk's Office at 734-222-5209
or [email protected]

December 2017 II  VOL. LXIII  No. 9

 

WINTER HAS ARRIVED! Here’s the scoop on snow plowing. Plowing with two trucks and available crew takes at least 8 hours to clear a 3-4” snow and 12 or more hours for a heavier snow. The roads are the first priority and will be cleared as much as possible during the snowfall. Achieving totally clear pavement throughout the village may take a number of days. Hills, curves and intersections are given the most attention. Thank you for your patience. Drive safely. (Contact the Clerk’s office for additional information.)

HOLIDAY TRASH COLLECTION Regular trash collection will occur on Monday December 18. The next collection day will be Tuesday January 2, 2018 due to the Monday New Year’s Day holiday. Regular schedule of first, third and fifth Mondays will resume on January 15, 2018.

BE SEEN! With the shorter, darker days of winter upon us, pedestrians, dog walkers, joggers and bikers are reminded to wear bright/reflective clothing and use bright flashlights and headlights to announce their presence on the roadways. People dressed in dark clothing are virtually invisible, especially as a vehicle rounds a corner or tops a hill.

BE SAFE! The speed limit is 25 mph on all BHV roads. Residents are reminded to keep their speed down and be prepared for school buses, delivery vehicles, wildlife and other surprises in the road as well as inclement weather. Visitors to the village need to see that the speed limit is for real and that residents are dedicated to protecting everyone’s safety.

IN SYMPATHY Deepest sympathy to the families of Frances Quarton and Jean Smith, both long-time BHV residents who passed away recently.

HALLOWEEN A bumper crop of over 60 children and adults enjoyed the Halloween pizza party at Walter Esch Hall before boarding either Dollie the Trolley or Holly the Trolley for the Trick or Treating ride. Ann Arbor Township Fire Department members were on hand in the parking lot with the big fire truck to begin the candy distribution. Many thanks to Sonnet Meek for coordinating the ride sign up and stops lists, to the residents who participated with Trolley stops, and to the BHV Recreation Committee for their efforts in providing this most successful Halloween event.

BHV BOARD OF TRUSTEES The Barton Hills Village Board of Trustees has set their 2018 regular meeting dates (second Monday of each month): January 8, February 12, March 12 (Annual Meeting), April 9, May 14, June 11, July 9, August 13, September 10, October 8, November 12 (Election November 6), December 10. All meetings begin at 6:00 PM at Walter Esch Hall.

HOLIDAY OFFICE HOURS Walter Esch Hall (Clerk’s and Treasurer’s offices) will be closed from Friday December 22, 2017 through Tuesday January 2, 2018. Regular office hours (8:30-11:30 AM Monday-Thursday) will resume on Wednesday January 3, 2018. If you have an urgent need please call the office number (734-222-5209) and follow the after-hours instructions. Email and office phone messages will be checked sporadically over the holidays. Best wishes for a very happy holiday season from all the BHV staff

October 2017 II  VOL. LXIII  No. 8

HALLOWEEN Dollie the Trolley is coming! Please see the attached flyer for all the details of the Halloween event being held on Tuesday October 31, 2017. Sign-up for both riders and stops is first come first served so please make your response as indicated on the flyer soon.

FALL PICNIC The 57 adults and 11 children who attended the BHV Fall Picnic on Sunday September 24, 2017 enjoyed blue skies and unseasonably warm temperatures as they met new neighbors, caught up with old friends and savored delicious food. Many thanks to the Recreation Committee and the BHV Staff for their help in providing a successful and fun event. There were some dishes left after the picnic. If you are missing a large, clear plastic bowl with a red lid or a medium blue china plate, contact Jan.

BHMC NEWS Out of a potential 132 votes, 100 votes were cast (98 full ballots, 4 half ballots; 72% turnout) in the September 27, 2017 Barton Hills Maintenance Corporation election. Nine candidates for the five open seats received these votes:
Jeff David—90 Greg Curtner--79.5 Daniel Nicoli—66   Bob Frank--61.5 Chris Lovasz--56.5 Greg Saldana--34.5     Bruce Thelen--28.5 John MacKrell—25 Daniel Keating--14.5

Incumbents Jeff David and Greg Curtner, along with new Directors Daniel Nicoli, Bob Frank and Chris Lovasz join Nancy Bishop, Barbara Hensinger, Melvin McInnis and Zakhour Youssef on the BHMC Board of Directors.  Thank you to all who participated in the BHMC election. The Board will meet on October 18, 2107 at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall.

BHMC has also been improving the shoreline area (behind the chain link fence) for resident boater use. ID decals for the boats are now available. Spaces on the new boat racks are going quickly so contact Sharon Popp (761-8570; ) or Jan Esch (222-5209; [email protected]) if you want to keep your small watercraft in the BHMC shoreline area.

MISSING KITTY Nellie, a four-year old female domestic shorthair black cat has been missing from the Oakdale/Colliston area since September 10. She weighs about 10 pounds, is chipped and spayed and is very affectionate. Owner’s phone: 734-827-0734 or 734-646-9898.

WATER RATE ORDINANCE At their September 11, 2017 meeting the BHV Board of Trustees adopted Ordinance No. 54 to amend the Barton Hills Village Code Chapter 9 (raise water rates; annual billing). Full text of the ordinance is available from the BHV Clerk’s office.

2018 CALENDARS The Huron River Watershed 2018 Community Calendar is being delivered to every BHV resident. Along with beautiful and striking photos taken along the Huron River (including the Barton Hills area), the calendar includes plenty of ideas to help you be “An H2O Hero”—someone who knows that small actions make a big impact in protecting the precious natural resources of our community.

Did you know that the same infrastructure we depend on to keep roads and basements from flooding also directs stormwater directly into local streams which flow into the Huron River and ultimately to Lake Erie? Stormwater (rain, melting snow, sprinkler run off, etc.) flows across hard surfaces such as roads, driveways and rooftops carrying with it dirt, motor oil, auto fluids, pesticides, fertilizer, bacteria from pet waste and other pollutants. Fortunately there are simple daily actions everyone can take to help prevent this water pollution.

The Huron River Watershed 2018 Community Calendar includes tips on everything from mulching, choosing fertilizers and properly disposing of pet waste to rain gardens, the benefits of native plants and capturing runoff with trees. There are also numerous volunteer opportunities and resources available through the Huron River Watershed Council.

Along with many neighboring municipalities and organizations, Barton Hills Village is a member of the Huron River Watershed Council and highly values the collective commitment to protect water quality and secure the watershed as a permanent source of clean drinking water, natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities. Check out the website at hrwc.org.

SEPTIC TANK PUMPING Regular septic tank maintenance for BHV residences is required by BHV Code Chapter 8 to be done every four years, or more frequently if needed. Contact Jan Esch at the Village Hall when tank pumping appointments are set so a BHV staff member can come at the same time to fill out necessary paperwork.

FALL CLEAN UP BHV staff will vacuum up leaves for homeowners who rake their own. Lawn service providers are expected to haul away whatever debris they gather. Please do not bag leaves for pick up, and separate out sticks and brush that clog up the leaf vacuum. Consider mulching (mulched leaves provide nutrients for lawns) and removing leaves from catch basins.

August 2017 II  VOL. LXIII  No. 7

TRASH COLLECTION Trash is picked up on the first, third and fifth Mondays of each month. Since the first Monday of September is the Labor Day holiday, trash will be collected on Tuesday September 5. This will be followed by Monday September 18 on regular schedule.

BHV FALL PICNIC Plan now to attend the BHV Fall Picnic on Sunday September 24! Meet new residents and connect with your neighbors at the Village Green from 4-7 PM. Burgers, hot dogs, brats, buns, condiments, lemonade and paper goods will be provided. Bring a dish to pass, lawn chairs, games, etc. RSVP to Jan by September 13 (734-222-5209, ). In case of rain the picnic will be held at the Village Hall.

BHMC NEWS From the Barton Hills Maintenance Corporation:

► Special Meeting of the Shareholders Tuesday September 19, 2017 6:00 PM Village Hall
Topic: Approval of the restated Deed Restrictions
A two-thirds majority of the shareholders is required to approve.
Please attend to vote, or submit your proxy so your vote will be included.

► BHMC Election Day Wednesday September 27, 2017. Shareholders who wish to run for office must submit a request in writing by 12:00 noon on Tuesday September 5, 2017.
There are five seats to be filled on the nine-member Board of Directors (four-year terms).

For more information contact BHMC Asst. Secretary Jan Esch or any BHMC Director.

PROPOSED ORDINANCE: WATER At recent meetings the Board of Trustees has spent considerable time studying the BHV water system, particularly in terms of future improvement and replacement needs. Based on the projected costs of keeping the system in good condition to meet the community’s needs, the Board proposes Ordinance No. 54 to amend the Barton Hills Village Code Chapter 9 (water rates). The text of the ordinance with proposed changes is printed on Page 2 of this Bulletin. Residents may comment on the ordinance by:
--attending to speak in person at the September 11, 2017 Board of Trustees meeting which begins at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall, and/or
--sending written comments to the Trustees in care of the Clerk’s Office by mail (199 Barton
Shore Drive, Ann Arbor MI 48105), fax (734-222-9177) or email ().

Proposed Ordinance No. 54

BARTON HILLS VILLAGE ORDAINS THAT TITLE I, CHAPTER 9 OF THE BARTON HILLS VILLAGE CODE BE AMENDED AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1.

Title I, Chapter 9, Section 1:92 of the Barton Hills Village Code is amended to read as follows:

1:92 – Water Service Rates

The rates to be charged for water service shall be $0.33 $0.99 per
100 cubic feet with a minimum semi-annual charge of $10.00 $120.00.

SECTION 2.

Title I, Chapter 9, Section 1:95 of the Barton Hills Village Code is amended to read as follows:

1:95 – Billing

Water rates shall be billed to premises at least semi- annually during each
fiscal year. These semi- annual bills shall represent charges for the period immediately preceding the date of the bill. The bills shall be due and payable within 30 days from the date of the billing. All bills not paid when due shall be considered delinquent. Delinquent bills will be subject to a one time penalty of 7% plus 1% interest on the outstanding balance. The 1% interest shall accrue monthly until the balance is paid.

COMING SOON School buses will join the walkers, joggers, bicyclists, kids, slow drivers, pet walkers, lawn service vehicles, people getting their mail, low hanging branches, hidden driveways, speed tables and, of course, deer –all things that may surprise you when you come around that curve or over that rise. Please continue to observe speed limits and be ready for sudden stops as you drive our beautiful, winding roads.

Have a safe and happy Labor Day!

August 2017  VOL. LXIII  No. 6

BHV SUPERINTENDENT The Esch family extends its deep appreciation for the community love and support expressed at the passing of Walter L. Esch on July 4, 2017. The Board of Trustees is planning a memorial in honor of Walter who served as Superintendent since 1949. Jeffrey Hnatow was appointed by the Board to the position of Superintendent on July 10. Jeff, his wife Sue and their family live at 215 Barton Shore Drive; Jeff can be reached at 734-368-7896.

TRASH COLLECTION Trash is picked up by the BHV staff on the first, third and fifth Mondays of the month. When a Monday holiday occurs, as it will for Labor Day in September, trash will be collected on the Tuesday immediately following the holiday.

BHV FALL PICNIC Plan now to attend the BHV Fall Picnic on September 24!

WATER CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REPORT The attached annual report for calendar year 2016 is published in compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act and summarizes the status of the BHV water system during the last calendar year. Please read it carefully and contact the numbers given for questions or concerns

WATER MAIN PROJECT Installation of the new water main along Barton Shore Drive is on track towards anticipated completion in early July. Thank you for your cooperation in avoiding travel in that area. More frequent flushing of the water system may cause temporary water discoloration but shouldn’t create any significant disturbance. Please contact the Clerk’s Office if you experience any unusual difficulties.

TICKS/LYME DISEASE Information about ticks from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (attached to the last Barton Bulletin No. XLIII No. 4) mentioned the use of the repellant permethrin. A resident responded that this substance can be toxic to cats and dogs, referencing an online site at http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+1677&aid=2252.

HOLIDAY NEWS Barton Hills Country Club will be holding their annual member celebration of Independence Day with fireworks on Friday, June 23, 2017. Families with dogs and young children who might be upset by the noise should make appropriate arrangements. Residents are also advised to use extreme caution when setting off any legal fireworks, taking great care to prevent fires, injury or damage.

VACATION SCHEDULE Notice will be posted on the door of the Village Hall when there are variations in office hours due to staff vacations. Contact information is also kept up to date on the Village Hall phone message available any time at 734-222-5209.

Grow A Healthy Lawn

A beautiful, well maintained lawn enhances your property value and provides a place for recreation and relaxation. But you may be making more work of your yard than is necessary. A few simple changes in your lawn care practices can save you time and money, while improving the quality of your lawn and protecting water resources.

MOW HIGH The roots of your lawn grow as deep as the grass grows tall, so taller grass has deeper, healthier roots. Keep your lawn three inches or higher, and never cut off more than 1/3 of the blade each time you mow. Leave the clippings right on your lawn for a natural fertilizer rich in nutrients and organic matter.

WATER SPARINGLY Over-watering can damage plants, stimulate fungus, and leach nutrients out of the soil. Train roots to go down deep into the soil by watering about 1” per week. Deeper roots produce healthier grass that shades out weeds. You’ll also be conserving water resources which is especially important during hot, dry weather.

PUT RAINWATER TO WORK Border your lawn with deep-rooted flowers and shrubs to prevent water runoff. Direct down spouts into garden areas, or install rain barrels to collect rainwater for later use.

LANDSCAPE WITH NATIVE PLANTS Native plants are naturally suited to our weather and soil conditions. They have deep, thirsty roots that help retain water on your site and filter out the pollutants in runoff.  Native plants are drought tolerant, disease resistant, rarely require fertilizers and improve soil conditions.

MULCH GRASS CLIPPINGS AND LEAVES Clippings that are mulched and returned to the lawn all season can contribute up to 25 percent of a lawn’s seasonal fertilizer needs. The additional organic matter in the soil will also help retain moisture.

IF YOU FERTILIZE GO PHOSPHORUS FREE Phosphorus is naturally abundant in our area and when washed into the rivers contributes to excessive aquatic plant growth and nuisance algal blooms. Michigan law prohibits application of phosphorus to residential turf grass. If you use fertilizer, make sure the middle number of the three-number sequence on the package is 0.

Find much more information about healthy lawns, native plants and water resource conservation at the Huron River Watershed Council website: www.hrwc.org.

SPRING IS HERE! Please note these important items
to help keep our community safe and healthy.

SPEED LIMIT The speed limit on all BHV roads is 25 mph unless otherwise posted. Watch for pedestrians, cyclists, animals, delivery trucks and other surprises on our narrow, winding roads. Pedestrians must walk facing traffic; cyclists ride with traffic; all in single file when traffic is present.

TICKS/LYME DISEASE Ticks that carry Lyme disease are present in increasing numbers in Washtenaw County. See the article below from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services on actions to take to reduce the risks of disease caused by tick bites.

COAL TAR SEALANT BAN Ann Arbor Township is adopting an ordinance (applicable in BHV) banning driveway sealants that contain higher amounts of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs), referred to as coal tar sealants. See below for more information.

GARLIC MUSTARD Garlic mustard is an aggressive invasive herb that crowds out native plant species in and near forested areas. Early spring is the ideal time to look for and pull out garlic mustard before it goes to seed. Put the pulled plants near the road for pick up/proper disposal by BHV staff. For a very informative video featuring local experts and former BHV resident Fred Clark (author of the BHV Forestry Study) visit https://vimeo.com/2855779.

SEPTIC MAINTENANCE BHV Code Chapter 8 requires septic tank pumping at least every 4 years or more often as needed. Contact Jan at the BHV Clerk’s Office when making an appointment for pumping so a staff member can come at the same time to fill out the necessary paperwork. Jan can also tell you when your system was last pumped.

LAWN DEBRIS BHV staff will pick up brush and sticks gathered by homeowners for disposal. Lawn service providers are expected to haul away their clean-up debris. Separate out sticks/brush that can be chipped from leaves and other debris. Place piles near the driveway or road where the staff can see and collect them as their work schedule allows.

BARTON HILLS MAINTENANCE CORPORATION NEWS

LAST CALL FOR BOATS BHMC will be issuing ID tags for resident boats kept at the North Dock area (behind the chain link fence north of the Boat Club building). Boats that have not been claimed will be disposed of. Contact Jan at the Clerk’s Office to identify your boat.

BHMC BUDGET VOTE Wednesday May 17, 2017 is the deadline for returning your BHMC budget ballot. The approved budget is the basis for BHMC assessments.

COAL TAR SEALANT BAN

Ann Arbor Township is in the final stages of adopting an ordinance to prohibit the use of driveway sealants that contain higher amounts of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs). Scientific studies have demonstrated a relationship between the use of these products and certain health and environmental concerns, including increased cancer risk and impaired water quality. The City of Ann Arbor, Dexter and Scio Townships already have such ordinances.

While it is a common practice to use sealants with 0.1 or more PAHs by weight –referred to as coal tar-based sealants—many PAH’s have been identified as toxic, carcinogenic and associated with higher risks of birth defects. Children who play on and near these surfaces are more likely to inhale PAHs, and particles also make it into homes on shoes and pets. Studies also have found that 50-75% of all PAHs found in sediments in the Great Lakes region come from coal tar sealcoat.

There are several alternatives with significantly lower or no PAH content, including asphalt-based seal coat which is readily available at similar cost. Asphalt-based sealers and crack fillers carry the label: C.A.S. 8052-42-4. The product label also should state Asbestos Free. More information about adequate alternative sealants is available on the Ann Arbor Township website at www.aatwp.org.

The new ordinance will apply both to commercial operators and homeowners, and will take effect 60 days after adoption. Commercial operators contracted by a homeowner should confirm their compliance with the annual registration process required under the ordinance.

When Barton Hills Village does not have a specific ordinance about a topic and Ann Arbor Township does, the township ordinance applies in BHV. 

MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Tick season is here: Take appropriate precautionary measures

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Jennifer Eisner 517-241-2112

May 1, 2017

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is encouraging Michigan residents to protect themselves from ticks as the warm weather approaches.  Tick-borne diseases, and particularly Lyme disease, are expanding across the State.

Although ticks can cause multiple illnesses, Lyme disease is the most commonly reported tick-borne disease in Michigan.  Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is transmitted by the blacklegged/deer tick. 

The blacklegged tick is well-established in Michigan’s western Upper and Lower Peninsulas.  However, the ticks are expanding into new areas across the Lower Peninsula.  In 2016, there were 221 human cases of Lyme disease reported, and approximately two out of three cases reported exposure in Michigan.

“With the expansion of blacklegged ticks into new areas in Michigan, the most important way to protect against Lyme disease is to prevent tick bites,” said Dr. Eden Wells, Chief Medical Executive of the MDHHS.  “If you find a tick attached to your body, promptly remove it.  Monitor your health and if you experience fever, rash, muscle or joint aches, or other symptoms, consult with your medical provider.”

People can protect themselves against Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases by using the following tips to prevent tick bites:

1. Avoid tick-infested areas. 
Walk in the center of trails to avoid contact with overgrown grass, brush, and leaf litter at trail edges.
Protect your pets too! Dogs and cats can come into contact with ticks outdoors and bring them into the home, so using tick prevention products on pets is also recommended.

2. Use insect repellent. 
Apply repellent containing DEET (20-30 percent) or Picaridin on exposed skin.
Treat clothes (especially pants, socks, and shoes) with permethrin, which kills ticks on contact or buy clothes that are pre-treated. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying any repellents.

3. Perform daily tick checks. 
Always check for ticks on yourself and your animals after being outdoors, even in your own yard.
Inspect all body surfaces carefully, and remove attached ticks with tweezers.
How to remove a tick: Grasp the tick firmly and as closely to the skin as possible. With a steady motion, pull the tick’s body away from the skin. Cleanse the area with an antiseptic.

4. Bathe or shower. 
Bathe or shower as soon as possible after coming indoors (preferably within two hours) to wash off and more easily find ticks that are crawling on you.
Washing clothing in hot water, and drying on high heat will kill ticks in clothing, and help to prevent ticks from coming indoors.

For more information visit www.cdc.gov/lyme, www.michigan.gov/lyme or www.lymedisease.org.

March 2017  VOL. LXIII  No. 3

ANNUAL MEETINGS

The following meetings will be held on Monday, March 13, 2017

beginning at 6:00 PM. at the Village Hall

Barton Hills Village Annual Meeting The agenda includes:
--Public Budget Hearing. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget for fiscal year 2017-2018 will be the subject of this hearing.

--Public Hearing Special Assessment District. The proposed Special Assessment District for road maintenance for roads within Barton Hills Village, including the laying of the levy against each parcel of land in the special assessment district, will be the subject of this hearing.

--Annual Committee Reports. The reports are attached to this Barton Bulletin.

--Public Comment and other regular business.

Barton Hills Maintenance Corporation Annual Meeting The agenda includes:

--Waterfront Restoration Project presentation
--Proposed annual budget for fiscal year 2017-18
--restated Articles of Incorporation
--Public comment and other regular business

ROAD MAINTENANCE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT (RMSAD) Notice of the proposed special assessment district for road maintenance was distributed to all owners of property in Barton Hills Village by US mail on February 23, 2017. If you did not receive this information in the mail, contact Deputy Clerk Jan Esch at the Village Hall (734-222-5209 or ). Adoption of the RMSAD, including the laying of the levy against each parcel of land in the special assessment district, will be decided at the BHV Annual Meeting on March 13, 2017. All BHV residents are encouraged to attend the meeting which begins at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall.

ANNUAL COMMITTEE REPORTS The BHV Board of Trustees has several committees that oversee particular activities. The annual reports of these committees are attached on the following pages of this Bulletin. Contact the Clerk’s Office for this attachment.

ZONING REMINDER Project Review is required for all new construction, exterior alteration of existing structures and landscape projects in Barton Hills Village. This includes:

--fences and retaining walls greater than 18” high
--accessory buildings (garage, garden shed, gazebo, etc)
--excavation other than common household gardening/ground care
--playground equipment, stairways/patio enclosures, outdoor swimming/landscape pools
--exterior lighting, generators/AC equipment
--parking areas, solar/wind energy structures , satellite antennas

Routine maintenance and repairs do not require review unless there will be a change in materials or structure. Significant changes in approved plans require a secondary review.

No construction or cutting of trees may commence until all approvals are completed.

Please ask! You’d rather hear you don’t need approval for that  than you needed to have that approved ! Contact Jan Esch for questions or to begin the process for any project.

IN SYMPATHY Deepest sympathies to the family of former resident Kathleen Fisher who passed away recently.

SEPTIC REMINDER Please contact the BHV Clerk’s Office when making an appointment for septic pumping so a staff member can come at the same time to fill out necessary paperwork. BHV Code Chapter 8 requires pumping at least every 4 years or more often as needed.

RECYCLING REMINDER Please put corrugated cardboard boxes just inside the salt storage building (out of the rain) next to the green recycling bin instead of in the green bin. Corrugated cardboard is recycled separately by the BHV crew. Thanks!

February 2017  VOL. LXIII  No. 2

January 2017  VOL. LXIII  No. 1

SPECIAL MEETING

A Special Meeting of the Barton Hills Village Board of Trustees will be held on
Monday January 30, 2017 at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall.
The topic of the Special Meeting will be the proposed creation of a
road maintenance special assessment district (SAD) and
the laying of the assessments for each of the individual parcels within the SAD/Village.
A Public Hearing will be held at the Special Meeting
to receive public comment regarding this proposal.
Written comments may be submitted in person,
mailed to Barton Hills Village, 199 Barton Shore Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48105,
faxed to 734-222-9177 or emailed to
prior to the close of the public hearing.

SECURITY NOTICE There have been two known incidents recently of a couple (man and woman, mid-sixties) in a black Chevy pickup stopping to offer candy to kids and adults on the road.  If you have this or a similar experience, please try to get the license plate number and call the Washtenaw County Sheriff at .  Also contact the BHV office or staff.

BHV/BHMC CONTACT INFORMATION Contact the Clerk’s Office for information

                                                                                                                        December 2016  VOL. LXII  No. 9

ROADS LETTER A letter was distributed to all BHV residents about the roads transfer and the establishment of a Special Assessment District. If you didn’t receive the letter or have questions, please contact Deputy Clerk Jan Esch (734-222-5209; ). Please note that the petitions must be the paper copy with original signature(s) so you must mail or deliver them to the Village Hall; fax and email are not acceptable in this case. There is no specific deadline for return of the petitions but please do so quickly. Thank you.

NEW TRUSTEE At their December 12, 2016 meeting the BHV Board of Trustees accepted the resignation of Trustee George Borel, and elected Elizabeth Langford to fill the vacancy. The nine Trustees currently serving are: Will Boddie (President), Forrest Butterwick (President ProTem), Cheryl MacKrell (Clerk), Alicia Torres (Treasurer), Riad Al-Awar, Linda Benson, Elizabeth Langford, Sharon Popp and Carla Smith.

The Board also set their 2017 regular meeting dates (second Monday of each month):  January 9, February 13, March 13 (Annual Meeting), April 10, May 8, June 12, July 10, August 14 , September 11, October 9, November 13, December 11. All meetings 6 PM at the Village Hall

NEW PHONE NUMBER BHV Zoning Administrator Randy Perry 734-926-9722

SNOW NOTES Winter has arrived! Here are some notes about snow plowing.
--With the two trucks and available crew it takes at least 8 hours to clear a 3-4” snow and 12 or more hours with a heavier snow.
--The roads are the first priority and will be cleared as much as possible during a snowfall.
--Steeper driveways and medical personnel are next. There are a number of them, so not everyone in this group will be able to have a clear driveway earlier.
--Those with flatter driveways usually can get out before plowing. These driveways will be done as soon as possible but probably later in the day.
--The snow has to go somewhere. Keep in mind that the truck plows in from the road and has to work around vehicles, bushes, lights and other things.
--Driveway plowing is a service offered by BHV, but it does come with limitations. Residents are always free to make other arrangements with private snow plowing providers.

BOAT STORAGE The Barton Hills Maintenance Corporation asks that anyone who has a boat stored in the area next to the Boat Club (by the chain link fence) please contact Jan Esch to identify their boat. The BHMC Board would like to make the area more attractive and needs to know what belongs to whom. Any boats that are not claimed will be removed.

RECREATION COMMITTEE About 40 children and adults enjoyed the Halloween evening pizza party at the Village Hall before the children boarded Dollie the Trolley for the Trick or Treating ride. Ann Arbor Township Fire Department members were on hand in the parking lot with the big fire truck and candy to give the Trolley riders an exciting send-off as they followed the BHV patrol car through the community. Many thanks to Jody Glancy for coordinating the ride sign up and stops lists, to the residents who participated with Trolley stops, and to the BHV Recreation Committee for their efforts in providing the successful Halloween event. The Recreation Committee also thanks all those who responded to their recent survey. They are always glad to have ideas and feedback on social events.

FIRE SAFETYThe American Red Cross is offering free home inspections/smoke alarm installations. During a 20-minute home visit they will test smoke alarms/batteries and install up to 3 smoke detectors free of charge. Washtenaw County residents may call 734-971-5300 extension 229 for more information or to sign up for a home visit. BHV is covered for fire protection by Ann Arbor Township Fire Department so in case of fire or emergency call 911.

PLANNING COMMISSION At their December 6, 2016 meeting the BHV Planning Commission set the following dates for their regular meetings in 2017: March 7, June 6, September 12 and December 5.

BE SEEN! With the shorter, snowy days of winter upon us, pedestrians, dog walkers, joggers and bikers are reminded to wear bright/reflective clothing and use bright flashlights and headlights to announce their presence on the roadways. People dressed in dark clothing are virtually invisible, especially as a vehicle rounds a corner or tops a hill. Motorists are reminded to obey the speed limit and be watchful for school buses, lawn care/delivery vehicles and wildlife along with pedestrians and bikers along the roads. Safety is everyone’s responsibility.

HOLIDAY OFFICE HOURS The Village Hall (Clerk and Treasurer’s offices) will be closed from Thursday December 22 through Friday December 30, 2016. Regular office hours (8:30-11:30 AM Monday-Thursday) will resume on Monday January 2, 2017. If you have an urgent need please call the Village Hall number and follow the after hours instructions.

Best wishes for a very happy holiday season from all the BHV staff
Walter, Jeff, Dave, Jan, Chris, Jacob, Robbie, Priya

November 2016  VOL. LXII  No. 8

ELECTION DAY

TUESDAY NOVEMBER 8, 2016

BHV residents vote at Ann Arbor Township Hall, 3792 Pontiac Trail, Ann Arbor 48105

Polls open 7 AM – 8 PM on Election Day

Absentee voter ballots available from now until 2 PM on Saturday November 5 from the
Ann Arbor Township Clerk, 3792 Pontiac Trail; 734-663-3418; www.aatwp.org

Bring photo ID to the polling place

Six candidates have filed to run for five seats on the BHV Board of Trustees.
Listed on the ballot: Forrest Butterwick, Sharon Popp and Carla Smith.

Running as write-ins: Riad Al-Awar, Elizabeth Langford and Alicia Torres.

To vote for a candidate printed on the ballot, mark the box next to the name as instructed on the ballot.

To vote for a write-in candidate, write the person’s full name on the blank line, then mark the box next to that name as instructed on the ballot.

All BHV elections are administered by Ann Arbor Township, 3792 Pontiac Trail, Ann Arbor MI 48105, 734-663-3418, www.aatwp.org. Additional voting information, including topics such as registration, absentee voting and sample ballots, is available at www.michigan.gov/vote. Please note that the online sample ballot does not have the write-in blank lines, but the lines will be on the actual ballot.

Election results will be posted at the Barton Hills Village Hall and at vil-bartonhills.org
by 9AM on Wednesday November 9, 2016.

Following is information provided by each candidate

RIAD AL-AWAR (Incumbent) – 1075 Country Club Road. Riad lives with his wife Madeleine and two of his four children. He holds a BSE and MSE in Civil Engineering, both from the University of Michigan. He worked for 10 years in Saudi Arabia, where he was a managing partner of a construction company, and is currently working in engineering development and consulting. He has served five terms as Trustee of Barton Hills Village and is currently the Street Administrator, Chair of the Roads Committee, Chair of the Vehicle and Equipment Committee and a member of the Zoning Committee. Positions previously held in the Village include President Pro Tem, Chair of the Village Administration Building Committee, Zoning Administrator and Chair of the Personnel Committee. Mr. Al-Awar enjoys the country atmosphere that Barton Hills has to offer, and hopes to continue working to maintain and preserve the quality of services and the ambiance of the Village.

FORREST BUTTERWICK (Incumbent) – 75 Underdown Road. Forrest and his wife Susan have been privileged to be
part of the Barton Hills community for 22 years. Being able to live in the park-like environment, created by the firm of one of America’s most famous landscape architects, within walking distance of one of America’s great smaller cities with all it has to offer seems almost singularly special. Maintaining that vision of the principle importance of natural beauty, as well as the charm and quality of life of the Village, underlies Forrest’s desire to be on the Board. Towards that end he is running for his fourth term as Trustee, having served since 2000. Forrest currently serves as President Pro-Tem, Chair of the Environmental Committee and Chair of the Safety and Security Committee. During his tenure he has influenced or contributed to the planning of the new Village Hall, the saving and restoration of Foster Bridge, the remodeling of the Maintenance building, the new Zoning code, the safety improvements to the M-14 exit (more must be done), and the
acquisition of the radar speed signs for BHV roads. Forrest would be honored to serve another term as a member of the
Barton Hills Village Board of Trustees.

ELIZABETH (LIBBY) LANGFORD (Incumbent) – 859 Oakdale Road. Libby was elected first president of Barton Hills Village in 1973 and served for 14 years before being elected to four consecutive 4-year terms as Supervisor of Ann Arbor Township. She resigned in 2002 to spend more time with family. In 2007 she was elected Village Trustee and is serving as Chair of the Personnel Committee. Libby’s mission is to preserve the quality of life for Barton Hills and the surrounding Township.

SHARON POPP – 1035 Country Club Road. Sharon has lived in Barton Hills with her husband, Robert Frank, for 8 years.  They have 3 grown daughters, one of whom lives in Ann Arbor.  Sharon is a retired medical anthropologist and social worker and previously worked at Wayne University School of Medicine developing medical school curriculum in social topic areas.  Her priorities are to: maintain and preserve the natural beauty of the area, continue to provide the high quality of services that currently exist in the Village, and encourage residents' involvement in Village activities and affairs.  In addition, Sharon is interested in issues relating to road traffic, invasive vegetation, and the increase in the deer population.

CARLA SMITH – 767 Oakdale Road. Carla, husband Jeff David, and daughter Serena (15) have lived in Barton Hills for 1.5 years, and in Ann Arbor for 13 years prior.  Carla heads the North American division of HIMSS, a $100M global organization focused on transforming health sectors through the best use of IT. Additionally, Carla serves on the National Stroke Association’s Board, is a Federal appointee to a Medicare and Medicaid Advisory Panel, co-founded the multi-national Women in Health IT Initiative, and chairs the Global Center for Health Innovation.  While Carla enjoys service on a global level, she champions service on the  local level. Carla has welcomed opportunities to better our community; she serves on a Village Committee to explore options to mitigate iron in residents’ water; helped launch the "Next-Door Barton Hills" on-line community forum; and may sometimes be seen pulling garlic mustard from Village common areas.  Carla believes residents are best-served by maintaining Village infrastructure, attending to common areas’ ecological health, exploring updated recycling and composting efforts, and increasing the sense of community among residents.  She believes her strong management skills, fresh outlook, and spirit of volunteerism would add value to the Trustees and the Village as a whole.

ALICIA TORRES – 460 Hillspur Road. Alicia has lived in Barton Hills with her husband, Frank Legacki, since 1998. She is the Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President of New Ventures for Altarum Institute, a healthcare research and analytics firm headquartered in Ann Arbor with four offices in Washington D.C. She was also Global Practice Leader - Healthcare for Zebra Technologies, a one billion dollar plus global information technology company, and a founder and CEO of Rosebud Solutions, a healthcare IT company. At age 24, she was Controller (and acting CFO) of 450 bed acute-care hospital McAllen Medical Center in McAllen, TX. Within her communities, Alicia is on the Board of Directors of the Michigan Theater, the Leadership Council of the U of M’s Center for Education of Women and an Advisory Council member for the School of Business at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, her alma mater. Alicia is dedicated to maintaining the unique and special character of Barton Hills, and doing so in a financially responsible manner.

October 2016  VOL. LXII  No. 7

HALLOWEEN There is still room for more children to ride and more residents to have Dollie the Trolley stop at their homes for trick-or-treating. The BHV Halloween event will be held on Monday October 31 beginning with pizza at the Village Hall at 5:30 PM. The trolley will depart at 6:15 PM sharp and typically concludes at the Village Hall between 8-8:30 PM. If you want your children to participate, or want to have the Trolley stop at your home, please respond as soon as possible (contact the Clerk's office for details) . There is no need to contact Jody if you do not want to participate, but she is glad to answer any questions.

BHV ELECTION Five seats on the Board of Trustees will be decided at the November 8, 2016 General Election.

Three candidates are listed on the ballot: Forrest Butterwick, Sharon Popp, Carla Smith.

Three candidates are running as write-ins: Riad Al-Awar, Elizabeth Langford, Alicia Torres.

To vote for a name listed on the ballot, mark the box next to the name as instructed on the ballot. To vote for a write-in candidate, write the person’s full name on a blank line, then mark the box next to that name.

All BHV elections are administered by Ann Arbor Township, 3792 Pontiac Trail, Ann Arbor MI 48105, 734-663-3418, www.aatwp.org. Additional voting information, including topics such as registration, absentee voting and sample ballots, is available at www.michigan.gov/vote.

NEW EMPLOYEES Contact the clerk’s office for details.

IN SYMPATHY Deepest sympathies to the family of long-time resident Mary Richards, who passed away recently.

RECREATION QUESTIONNAIRE The Recreation Committee appreciates all who responded to their recent survey on current/future social events, and encourages those who haven’t responded to do so. If you can’t find the email or paper survey form, contact Jan at the Village Hall (734-222-5209, [email protected]).

DIRECTORY UPDATE Contact the clerk’s office for details.

FALL CLEAN UP Please note the following:

If you rake your own leaves, you can pile them near the road or driveway for BHV collection.

Lawn services/hired providers must haul leaves away as part of their contract.

Mulching leaves during mowing adds nutrients to the soil.

Leaves can be raked into wooded areas on your property.

Don’t pile leaves in the roadway where they will be a hazard to pedestrians and traffic.

Don’t bag leaves, as BHV vacuums up the loose leaves.

Leaf pick up will not be on trash pick up days since the same truck is used for both.

Sort out sticks, rocks and debris that will clog/damage the leaf vacuum.

Sticks and brush can be put in piles for separate pick up.

Keep leaves, sticks and debris out of catch basins and gutters in the roads.

DRUG TAKE BACK DAY The Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will hold a Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 22, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., providing opportunity for residents to rid their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs.  Bring pills for disposal to the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office Service Center at 2201 Hogback Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105  (The DEA cannot accept liquids, needles or sharps, only pills or patches).  The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse, accidental poisonings and overdoses in the U.S. are alarmingly high. Flushing drugs down the toilet or throwing them in the trash pose potential safety and health hazards.

Overall, in its 11 previous Take Back events, DEA and its partners have taken in over 6.4 million pounds—about 3,200 tons—of pills.  For more information about the disposal of prescription drugs or about the October 22 Take Back Day event, go to the DEA Diversion website.  https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback/index.html

September II 2016  VOL. LXII  No. 6

BHV ELECTION Five seats on the Board of Trustees will be decided at the November 8, 2016 General Election. The candidates were asked to provide information for BHV voters to consider as they mark their ballots.

Three candidates filed before the deadline and are listed on the ballot: Forrest Butterwick, Sharon Popp and Carla Smith.

Three additional candidates have filed to run as write-ins: Riad Al-Awar, Elizabeth Langford and Alicia Torres.

To vote for a name listed on the ballot, mark the box next to the name as instructed on the ballot. To vote for a write-in candidate, write the person’s full name on the blank line, then mark the box next to that name.

All BHV elections are administered by Ann Arbor Township, 3792 Pontiac Trail, Ann Arbor MI 48105, 734-663-3418, www.aatwp.org. Additional voting information, including topics such as registration, absentee voting and sample ballots, is available at www.michigan.gov/vote. Please note that the online sample ballot does not have the write-in blank lines, but the lines will be on the actual ballot.

FORREST BUTTERWICK (Incumbent) – 75 Underdown Road. Forrest and his wife Susan have been privileged to be part of the Barton Hills community for 22 years. Being able to live in the park-like environment, created by the firm of one of America’s most famous landscape architects, within walking distance of one of America’s great smaller cities with all it has to offer seems almost singularly special. Maintaining that vision of the principle importance of natural beauty, as well as the charm and quality of life of the Village, underlies Forrest’s desire to be on the Board. Towards that end he is running for his fourth term as Trustee, having served since 2000. Forrest currently serves as President Pro-Tem, Chair of the Environmental Committee and Chair of the Safety and Security Committee. During his tenure he has influenced or contributed to the planning of the new Village Hall, the saving and restoration of the Foster Bridge, the remodeling of the Maintenance building, the new Zoning code, the safety improvement to the M-14 exit (more must be done), and the acquisition of the radar speed signs for BHV roads. Forrest would be honored to serve another term as a member of the Barton Hills Village
Board of Trustees.

SHARON POPP– 1035 Country Club Road. Sharon has lived in Barton Hills with her husband, Robert Frank, for 8 years.  They have 3 grown daughters, one of whom lives in Ann Arbor.  Sharon is a retired medical anthropologist and social worker and previously worked at Wayne University School of Medicine developing medical school curriculum in social topic areas.  Her priorities are to: maintain and preserve the natural beauty of the area, continue to provide the high quality of services that currently exist in the Village, and encourage residents' involvement in Village activities and affairs.  In addition, Sharon is interested in issues relating to road traffic, invasive vegetation, and the increase in the deer population.

CARLA SMITH– 767 Oakdale Road. Carla, husband Jeff David, and daughter Serena (15) have lived in Barton Hills for 1.5 years, and in Ann Arbor for 13 years prior.  Carla heads the North American division of HIMSS, a $100M global organization focused on transforming health sectors through the best use of IT. Additionally, Carla serves on the National Stroke Association’s Board, is a Federal appointee to a Medicare and Medicaid Advisory Panel, co-founded the multi-national Women in Health IT Initiative, and chairs the Global Center for Health Innovation.  While Carla enjoys service on a global level, she champions service on the  local level. Carla has welcomed opportunities to better our community; she serves on a Village Committee to explore options to mitigate iron in residents’ water; helped launch the "Next-Door Barton Hills" on-line community forum; and may sometimes be seen pulling garlic mustard from Village common areas.  Carla believes residents are best-served by maintaining Village infrastructure, attending to common areas’ ecological health, exploring updated recycling and composting efforts, and increasing the sense of community among residents.  She believes her strong management skills, fresh outlook, and spirit of volunteerism would add value to the Trustees and the Village as whole.

RIAD AL-AWAR(Incumbent) – 1075 Country Club Road. Riad lives with his wife Madeleine and two of his four children. He holds a BSE and MSE in Civil Engineering, both from the University of Michigan. He worked for 10 years in Saudi Arabia, where he was a managing partner of a construction company, and is currently working in engineering development and consulting. He has served five terms as Trustee of Barton Hills Village and is currently the Street Administrator, Chairperson of the Roads Committee, Chairperson of the Vehicle and Equipment Committee and a member of the Zoning Committee. Positions previously held in the Village include President Pro Tem, Chairperson of the Village Administration Building Committee, Zoning Administrator and Chairperson of the Personnel Committee. Mr. Al-Awar enjoys the country atmosphere that Barton Hills has to offer, and hopes to continue working to maintain and preserve the quality of services and the ambiance of the Village.

ELIZABETH (LIBBY) LANGFORD(Incumbent) – 859 Oakdale Road. Libby was elected first president of Barton Hills Village in 1973 and served for 14 years before being elected to four consecutive 4-year terms as Supervisor of Ann Arbor Township. She resigned in 2002 to spend more time with family. In 2007 she was elected Village Trustee and is serving as Chairman of the Personnel Committee. Libby’s mission is to preserve the quality of life for Barton Hills and the surrounding Township.

ALICIA TORRES– 460 Hillspur Road. Alicia has lived in Barton Hills with her husband, Frank Legacki, since 1998. She is the Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President of New Ventures for Altarum Institute, a healthcare research and analytics firm headquartered in Ann Arbor with four offices in Washington D.C. She was also Global Practice Leader - Healthcare for Zebra Technologies, a one billion dollar plus global information technology company, and a founder and CEO of Rosebud Solutions, a healthcare IT company. At age 24, she was Controller (and acting CFO) of 450 bed acute-care hospital McAllen Medical Center in McAllen, TX. Within her communities, Alicia is on the Board of Directors of the Michigan Theater, the Leadership Council of the U of M’s Center for Education of Women and an Advisory Council member for the School of Business at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, her alma mater. Alicia is dedicated to maintaining the unique and special character of Barton Hills, and doing so in a financially responsible manner.

PLEASE VOTE ON NOVEMBER 8!

 

September 2016  VOL. LXII  No. 5

HALLOWEEN Dollie the Trolley is coming! Please see the attached flyer (contact Clerk’s Office for details) for all the details of the Halloween event being held on Monday October 31, 2016. Sign up is first come first served so please make your response as indicated on the flyer soon.

FALL PICNIC The 50 adults and 8 children who attended the BHV Fall Picnic on Sunday September 11, 2016 enjoyed blue skies and pleasant temperatures as they met new neighbors, caught up with old friends and savored delicious food. Many thanks to the Recreation Committee and the BHV Staff for their help in providing a successful and fun event.

--There were some dishes left after the picnic. If you are missing a large, clear plastic bowl, a square-ish clear plastic bowl with a red lid or a similar bowl with a blue lid, contact Jan.

RECREATION QUESTIONNAIRE The Recreation Committee would like your input on current and future social events. Please take a moment to reply to their easy 6-question survey.
--If you are receiving the Bulletin by email, you will get a separate email that you can reply to with your answers typed in.
--If you receive the Bulletin in paper, the survey is attached and you can return it by fax, mail or drop off to the Village Hall.
Thanks for your help! (contact Clerk’s Office for details)

BHV BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING The next meeting of the BHV Board of Trustees is scheduled for Monday, October 10, 2016 beginning at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall, 199 Barton Shore Drive. The meeting will include discussion of the recent letter sent to the residents regarding roads. Public Comment is received by the Trustees near the beginning of each board meeting. Agendas and minutes are posted on the website and at the Village Hall.

BHV ELECTION Five seats on the Board of Trustees will be decided at the November 8, 2016 General Election. Three candidates will be listed on the ballot: Forrest Butterwick, Sharon Popp and Carla Smith. Two candidates have filed to run as write-ins: Riad Al-Awar and Elizabeth Langford. Anyone wishing to run as a write-in candidate must file a declaration of intent form at the Ann Arbor Township office before 4 PM on Friday, October 28, 2016.
--All BHV election activities, including absentee ballots, are handled by Ann Arbor Township, 3792 Pontiac Trail, Ann Arbor 48105; 734-663-3418; www.aatwp.org; Clerk Rena Basch .
--The last day to register to vote in the November 8 election is Tuesday, October 11, 2016. You can register at the Township or any Secretary of State office.

AUDIT The BHV audit for fiscal year 2015-16 is available for public inspection at the Clerk’s Office in the Village Hall.

IN SYMPATHY Deepest sympathies to the family of long-time resident Brian Fingerle, who passed away recently.

BHMC BOARD OF DIRECTORS At their September 20, 2016 meeting the Barton Hills Maintenance Corporation Board of Directors appointed new director Jeff David to complete the term of Chuck Bultman who has moved out of the Village. Jeff joins Directors Nancy Bishop, Greg Curtner, Barbara Hensinger, Adele Laporte, Frank Legacki, Melvin McInnis, John MacKrell and Zakhour Youssef. BHMC Board meetings are scheduled for the third Tuesday of each month at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall.

SEPTIC TANK PUMPING Septic tank maintenance for BHV residences is due every four years, or more frequently if needed. Contact Jan Esch at the Village Hall when tank pumping appointments are set so a BHV staff member can come at the same time to fill out necessary paperwork. This regular maintenance, as required by BHV Code Chapter 8, is very important in protecting the good environmental health of the Huron River watershed and BHV water resources.

FALL CLEAN UP BHV staff will vacuum up leaves for homeowners who rake their own. Lawn service providers are expected to haul away whatever debris they gather. Please do not bag leaves for pick up, and separate out sticks and brush that clog up the leaf vacuum. Consider mulching (mulched leaves provide nutrients for lawns) and removing leaves from catch basins.

August 2016  VOL. LXII  No. 4

DATES TO NOTE

Monday September 5 LABOR DAY Trash collection will be on Tuesday September. Regular trash days first, third and fifth Mondays.
Sunday September 11 BHV PICNIC Please RSVP to Jan Esch by September 8. Join your neighbors for food and fun. See the attached invitation.
Wednesday September 14 TAXES DUE Barton Hills Village property taxes payable no later than this date to avoid penalties.
Monday October 31 HALLOWEEN Halloween Trick-or-Treat event. Watch for information about Dollie the Trolley.

WATER CONSERVATION During these hot summer days please help to conserve water.
--Water lawns wisely. Frequent watering leads to shallow roots and greater susceptibility to diseases that thrive in wet soil. Grass needs 1” per week including rainfall, so sprinklers should not be running daily or after rain.
--Water plants early in the day or later in the evening. Soaker hoses provide water directly to roots without overspray or excess foliage moisture.
--Check for leaks around the house, wash full loads of clothes and dishes and don’t let water run unnecessarily.
For more ideas check out the Huron River Watershed Council website at www.hrwc.org and click on the “Take Action” tab.

BHV ELECTION Three candidates submitted petitions before the deadline to run for the Board of Trustees: Forrest Butterwick, Sharon Popp and Carla Smith. Five seats on the Board will decided at the November 8, 2016 General Election. The deadline for filing as a write in candidate for the BHV Board is 4 PM on Friday October 28, 2016.
All BHV election activities, including absentee ballots, are handled by Ann Arbor Township, 3792 Pontiac Trail, Ann Arbor 48105; 734-663-3418; www.aatwp.org; Clerk Rena Basch [email protected].

PARKING REQUEST The BHV staff has been discouraging non-residents from using the Village Hall and tennis court parking to the Barton Nature Area/Barton Dam parking lot on Huron River Drive. Contact the Clerk’s Office for more information.

DIRECTORY UPDATE Contact the Clerk’s Office for more information.

IN SYMPATHY Deepest sympathies to the family of long-time resident Elizabeth Teeter, who passed away recently.

COMING SOON School buses will join the walkers, joggers, bicyclists, kids, slow drivers, pet walkers, lawn service vehicles, people getting their mail, low hanging branches, hidden driveways, speed tables and, of course, deer –all things that may be a surprise coming around that curve or over that rise. Please observe speed limits and be ready for sudden stops on BHV’s beautiful, winding roads.

RECYCLING REMINDER Please put only clean items in the recycling bins. Unrinsed beverage cans and containers with food remnants attract insects/animals and promote germs. Do not leave garbage in the recycling area. A bit of extra attention will be appreciated by all.

TRASH REQUEST When purchasing trash containers, please choose ones small enough for one person to lift unless all trash will be bagged before put in the can. The BHV employees lift the cans/bags up into the trash truck so weight is a factor. Thanks!

LYME DISEASE Lyme disease has been reported in Washtenaw County including one BHV resident who was recently treated and a former resident who continues to struggle with long term effects. Protection and early attention are important.
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection primarily transmitted by deer ticks. The tiny insects are about the size of a poppy seed, with a painless bite, and are typically found in wooded, grassy areas. Symptoms are often vague: flu-like fever, chills, sweats, muscle aches, fatigue, nausea and joint pain; often but not always a bulls-eye shaped rash may appear. Seek medical advice early, especially if symptoms arise after outdoor activities
Preventative measures include wearing long sleeves, long pants, socks and hats outdoors. Repellants containing DEET, picaridin or lemon eucalyptus oil are effective, along with permethrin spray for clothing and shoes. Check for ticks after outings, especially on children and pets. For more information go to www.lymedisease.org.

WATER CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REPORT CORRECTION The annual Water Consumer Confidence report for calendar year 2015 was published in the April 2016 edition of the Barton Bulletin. There was an error in the report that is now being corrected.

Concerning lead/copper testing, the report stated on page 1:

Lead BHV has been testing for lead and copper in drinking water according to EPA standards since 1989.

As indicated in the table on Page 3, BHV levels of lead in drinking water are well below the allowable limit.
In 2015 testing, only one sample out of five indicated any lead detection (that result was 2 parts per billion (ppb);
acceptable limit is 15 ppb). If present, elevated levels of lead can cause serious health problems, especially for
pregnant women and young children. Lead can enter drinking water when service lines and plumbing components
containing lead corrode, which can happen when water sits in pipes for several hours. All BHV water mains are
either cast iron or cement-lined ductile iron and phosphate/chlorine are added to BHV water to minimize corrosion.
However, BHV cannot control the variety of materials used in private water service lines or household plumbing
components. When water has been sitting for several hours, the potential for lead exposure can be minimized by
flushing the tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. Homeowners may wish to
have the water in their house tested for lead. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps to
take to minimize exposure is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791) or at
www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

This information is all accurate. However, in the table on Page 3 the information was erroneously stated. Following is the correct table.

Lead/Copper Monitoring at Customer's Tap		# of 5 samples > AL	Barton Hills Water 90th percentile	Rangeof Detections	Sample Date	Violation	Typical Source of Contaminant
Lead ppb (parts/billion) Action Level=15 Copper ppb (parts/billion) Action Level=1300		0 1	2 1205	0- 4 0-2050	9/2/15 9/2/15	No No	Corrosion of household plumbing systems Erosion of natural deposits

If you have questions concerning this report, please contact BHV Superintendent Walter Esch at 734-368-7884 or 734-222-5209.

HOLIDAY NEWS Barton Hills Country Club will be holding their annual member celebration of Independence Day with fireworks on Friday, June 24, 2016. Families with dogs and young children who might be upset by the noise should make appropriate arrangements. Residents are also advised to use extreme caution when setting off any legal fireworks, taking great care to prevent fires, injury or damage.

Due to the July 4th holiday, trash collection will be on Tuesday July 5, 2016.

STAFF NEWS Superintendent Walter Esch will be retiring in March 2017, giving him an even 68 years of service since his hiring in March 1949. Staff member Jeff Hnatow will be working with Walter to transition to the position. Walter is still actively on the job and can be reached at his cell phone 734-368-7874.

VACATION SCHEDULE Notice will be posted on the door of the Village Hall when there are variations in office hours due to staff vacations. Contact information is also kept up to date on the Village Hall phone message available any time at 734-222-5209.

BHMC NEWS Recent vacancies on the Barton Hills Maintenance Corporation Board of Directors have been filled. Board members are: Frank Legacki (President), Greg Curtner (Vice President), Barabara Hensinger (Secretary), Adele Laporte (Treasurer), Zakhour Youssef (Asst. Treasurer), Nancy Bishop, Chuck Bultman, John MacKrell and Melvin McInnis. The BHMC Board meets on the third Tuesday of the month at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall.

BHV ELECTION DEADLINE APPROACHING Barton Hills Village voters will elect candidates to fill five seats on the Board of Trustees at the November 8, 2016 General Election. The deadline for filing a nominating petition to be a candidate for the BHV Board is 4 PM on Tuesday July 26, 2016. Candidates are urged to file their petitions much earlier than that deadline date! All election activities are handled by Ann Arbor Township, 3792 Pontiac Trail, Ann Arbor 48105; 734-663-3418; www.aatwp.org; Clerk Rena Basch [email protected].

DIRECTORY UPDATE   Contact the Clerk's Office for more information

IN SYMPATHY Deepest sympathies to the family of Alice Dobson, who passed away recently, and to the Enid Gosling family at the passing of Enid’s daughter Robin.

LOOKING AHEAD The Barton Hills Village Picnic will be held on Sunday afternoon September 11, 2016. Mark your calendars now and watch for the invitation later this year.

April 2016  VOL. LXII  No. 2

WATER CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REPORT The attached annual report for calendar year 2015 is published in compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act and summarizes the status of the BHV water system during the last calendar year. Please read it carefully and contact the numbers given for questions or concerns. Lead levels in drinking water have been in the news; BHV water has very low levels of lead and copper as explained on the first page of the Water Consumer Confidence Report. Residents who want to have their home water tested for lead should contact Superintendent Walter Esch (734-368-7884) or Deputy Clerk Jan Esch (734-222-5209or or 199 Barton Shore Dr. Ann Arbor MI 48105).

BHMC VACANCY There is a vacant seat on the Barton Hills Maintenance Corporation Board of Directors due a resignation. The ByLaws require that the remaining Directors elect a shareholder to fill the vacancy until the next election. Shareholders who wish to be a candidate for the position should send a written request of not more than 500 words to Asst. Secretary Jan Esch by mail (199 Barton Shore Drive, Ann Arbor MI 48105), email () or fax (734-222-9177) by 5:00PM Wednesday May 4, 2016.

WELCOME SPRING! Some reminders about spring activities:

Lawn Debris BHV staff will pick up brush and sticks gathered by homeowners for disposal (lawn service providers are expected to haul away their clean-up debris). Please separate out sticks/brush that can be chipped from leaves and other debris. Place piles near the driveway or road where the staff can see and collect them as their work schedule allows.

Septic Pumping Contact the BHV Clerk’s Office when making an appointment for septic pumping so a staff member can come at the same time to fill out necessary paperwork. BHV Ordinance No. 21 requires pumping at least every 4 years or more often as needed.

Recycling When recycling items, please help to keep the area clean by:
--putting clean cans, bottles, plastics, papers and boxboard in the green bin
--leaving corrugated cardboard near the building, not in the green bin
--not bringing any household trash or food items.

Driveway Sealing Choose an asphalt-based sealcoat rather than coal-tars that are high in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) which have been identified as toxic and are easily spread by weather elements. For more information check out the Huron River Watershed Council website at www.hrwc.org/coaltar. (Lots of other interesting information at that site too)

Garlic Mustard Control Garlic mustard is an aggressive invasive herb that crowds out native plant species in and near forested areas. Early spring is the ideal time to look for and pull out the dark purple/green rosettes with kidney-shaped, scalloped-edge leaves growing close to the ground. Put the pulled plants in piles for pick up and proper disposal by BHV staff. For a very informative video about garlic mustard featuring local experts and former BHV resident Fred Clark (author of the BHV Forestry Study) visit https://vimeo.com/2855779.

Event Planning As outdoor parties and celebrations increase, consider guest parking, noise levels and other things that could impact neighbors. Contact Supt. Walter Esch (734-368-7874) for great advice in handling extra cars while maintaining safe roadways.

Traffic Safety Drivers please use extra caution and lower speeds to avoid contact with wildlife, pedestrians, joggers, dog-walkers and service workers who may be in the traffic lanes. Bicyclists should ride with traffic, single file when vehicles are present. Walkers/runners should face traffic and also be single file when vehicles approach.

DIRECTORY UPDATE Contact Clerk’s Office for details

M-14 CLOSURE Thank you for your patience during the Michigan Department of Transportation road/bridge repair on M-14. Residents are asked to be particularly careful to adhere to driving etiquette while traveling on Foster Bridge. Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Department reminds drivers that the one lane bridge requires taking turns to let one car pass from each direction alternately and cautions not to stop on the railroad tracks while waiting for a turn. This project impacts traffic patterns throughout the area so drive carefully at all times.

BHV MEETINGS The following meetings will take place on Monday, March 14, 2016 beginning at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall, 199 Barton Shore Drive.

Zoning Board of Appeals Review of an application for variance to construct a deck in the set back at 326 Juniper Lane. (Tabled from 2/8/16; for information contact the Clerk’s Office)

Public Budget Hearing The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget for fiscal year 2016-2017 will be the subject of this hearing. A copy of the proposed budget will be on file and available to the public at the Clerk’s Office after March 1, 2016.

Barton Hills Village Annual Meeting Regular business will be conducted by the Board of Trustees in addition to acceptance of annual committee reports (reports are attached to this Bulletin). The Board will receive comment from the residents on any issues of concern. A public comment period is also on the agenda for all Board of Trustees meetings, which are held the second Monday of each month at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall.


M-14 CLOSURE Please see the attached flyer about the closure of M-14 beginning Friday, March 5, 2016 at 9 PM. The Michigan Department of Transportation is repairing the road/bridges between the Barton Drive and Miller/Maple Road exits and no traffic will be allowed to use that section of the expressway. From the BHV Lower Gate traffic will be able to use the Barton Drive entrance to go east on M-14 but will not be able to use the westbound ramp to go towards Maple Road or into Ann Arbor on Main Street. Traffic on westbound M-14 can exit at Whitmore Lake Road or Main Street but there will be lane switches during construction that prevent the use of the westbound entrance ramp from Whitmore Lake Road. Eastbound traffic from I-94 will have to exit at Maple/Miller.

BHV RESIDENT DIRECTORY UPDATE The new BHV Resident Directory is ready!
If you receive the Barton Bulletin by email, an electronic version of the Directory is also attached to this email
If you receive the Barton Bulletin in paper format, two paper Directories are attached.
If you want to receive paper Directories, contact Jan Esch to order (printed as needed).

2016 ELECTIONS For all elections, BHV residents participate via Ann Arbor Township. Voting takes place at the Township Hall, 3792 Pontiac Trail, Ann Arbor 48105. For all voting questions contact the Township at 734-663-3418; www.aatwp.org. Here is some information regarding 2016 elections.

--The  Presidential Primary Election and a ballot proposal from the Washtenaw Intermediate School District (WISD) election will be held on Tuesday, March 8, 2016 from 7 am to 8 pm for the purpose of nominating Democratic Party and Republican Party candidates for the President of the United States, and voting on a millage proposal from WISD. Check voter registration status, polling place and view sample ballots at www.michigan.gov/vote

--The Regular Primary Election will be held on Tuesday August 2, 2016. Last day to register to vote in the Regular Primary Election is Tuesday July 5, 2016.

--The General Election will be held on Tuesday November 8, 2016. Last day to register to vote in the General Election is Tuesday October 11, 2106.

--Along with the Presidential and other races, Barton Hills Village voters will elect candidates to fill five seats on the Board of Trustees at the November General Election. The deadline for filing a nominating petition to be a candidate for the BHV Board is 4 PM on Tuesday July 26, 2016. Candidates are urged to file their petitions much earlier than that deadline date!

RECYCLING BHV contracts with Recycle Ann Arbor for the green recycling bin in the BHV maintenance area. Since the cost to rent that bin recently went up, please help to make best use of it:
--Do not put corrugated cardboard in the green bin. BHV bales/sells this cardboard directly so leave corrugated cardboard next to regular trash at home for pick up on trash collection days, or leave it by the side of the building next to the green bin where the BHV staff will take care of it. For a special home pick up of a quantity of boxes, phone Supt. Esch (368-7874) or the Village Hall (222-5209).
--Do not put No. 2 plastics (milk jugs, water jugs, detergent bottles, etc) in the green bin. Put them in the wire bins near the green bin, as they are also baled separately.
--Use the blue HHW bin at home to put household hazardous waste items next to regular trash for pick up on trash collection days (first, third and fifth Mondays of the month).
--Make sure all recyclables are clean (no food!) with lids removed.
For more information and any recycling questions, call Supt. Esch or the Village Hall.

Daylight Savings Time begins March 13

December 2015  VOL. LXI  No. 10

HALLOWEEN About 40 children and adults enjoyed the Halloween evening pizza party at the Village Hall before the children boarded Dollie the Trolley for the Trick or Treating ride. Ann Arbor Township Fire Department members were on hand in the parking lot with the big fire truck and candy to give the Trolley riders an exciting send-off as they followed the BHV patrol car through the community. Many thanks to all who helped to provide the successful Halloween event.

HOLIDAY SCHEDULE
--Trash will be collected on the regular days of Monday December 21 and Monday January 4.
--The Village Hall offices will be closed at noon on Wednesday December 23 and reopen on Monday morning January 4, 2016.

2016 MEETING DATES The BHV Board of Trustees has set the following dates for regular meetings in 2016 (second Monday of the month, 6:00 PM at the Village Hall):
January 11, February 8, March 14 (Annual Meeting), April 11, May 9, June 13, July 11, August 8, September 12, October 10, November 14 (Organization Meeting) and December 12.

The BHV Planning Commission regular meetings in 2016 have been set for March 1, June 7, September 6 and December 6. All meetings begin at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall.

2016 CALENDAR Attached to this Bulletin is a 2016 Calendar produced by the Huron River Watershed Council, of which BHV is a member. Besides beautiful photographs, the calendar is filled with useful information so everyone can help to prevent water pollution.

BHV RESIDENT DIRECTORY UPDATE The new BHV Resident Directory will be distributed in early January. If you have not replied to Deputy Clerk Jan Esch about your entry, please contact her as soon as possible so your information will be accurate.

AUDIT The BHV audit for fiscal year 2014-15 is available for public inspection at the Clerk’s Office in the Village Hall.

BHV ORDINANCE CODIFICATION At their November 9, 2015 meeting the BHV Board of Trustees adopted Ordinance No. 52 to codify the Village ordinances. In creating a BHV Code, all of the ordinances except the Zoning Ordinance and the gas franchise are combined in a single document. Codification does not change any of the content of the ordinances, but provides a more consistent standard of organization that will be easier to use. The new code document can be reviewed and a copy obtained at the BHV Clerk’s Office in the Village Hall and is also posted on the BHV website (vil-bartonhills.org).

BHMC ELECTION The recent Barton Hills Maintenance Corporation Shareholder votes resulted in adoption of the proposed 2015-16 budget and election of four Directors. New members Nancy Bishop and Melvin McInnis along with returning members Barbara Hensinger and Zakhour Youssef join members Chuck Bultman, Adele Laporte, Frank Legacki, Scott Mabie and Greg Saldaña on the Board of Directors. Meetings are scheduled for the third Tuesday of the month at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall. At their December 8, 2015 meeting the Board adopted resolutions honoring outgoing Directors Greg Curtner who had a short term on the Board and John MacKrell who served over fifteen years, a number of them as President.

IN SYMPATHY Deepest sympathies to the family of Norman Thompson, a long time BHV resident who passed away recently.

BE SEEN! With the shorter days of winter upon us, pedestrians, dog walkers, joggers and bikers are reminded to wear light colored/reflective clothing and use bright flashlights and headlights to announce their presence on the roadways. People dressed in dark clothing are virtually invisible at night, especially as a vehicle rounds a corner or tops a hill. Safety is everyone’s responsibility.

SECURITY REMINDER Since the holidays can be a time of increased criminal activity, residents are reminded to keep their home, garage and vehicle doors and windows locked, and valuables out of sight. If you have significant concerns, phone 911 for the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Department which provides police services to Barton Hills Village.

RECYCLING Please help to keep the cost of recycling down and the recycling area clean and safe by:
--rinsing/removing any food/dirt from recycled items
--removing lids and putting #2 plastics in the separate metal bins
--leave corrugated cardboard boxes next to your regular trash for pick up, or next to rather than in the green bin. While the green bin can take cardboard, BHV bales/sells the cardboard separately rather than paying to include it in the green bin program.

Happy Holidays!

October 2015  VOL. LXI  No. 9

HALLOWEEN There’s still time to sign up for the Halloween Trick or Treat ride and pizza party featuring Dollie the Trolley. The BHV Halloween event will be held on Saturday October 31 beginning with pizza at the Village Hall at 5:30 PM. The trolley will depart at 6:15 PM sharp and typically concludes at the Village Hall between 8-8:30 PM. If you want your children to participate, or want to have the trick-or-treaters stop at your home, please respond as soon as possible to Jody Glancy Scott at or phone 734-834-2420. There is no need to contact Jody if you do not want to participate, but she is glad to answer any questions.

BHMC UPDATE The recent Barton Hills Maintenance Corporation Shareholder vote resulted in adoption of the proposed 2015-16 budget. Information concerning the 2015 Board of Directors election is being distributed to BHMC Shareholders on October 19, 2015.

BHV ORDINANCE CODIFICATION At their October 12, 2015 meeting the Barton Hills Village Board of Trustees proposed to codify the Village ordinances. Currently each ordinance is a separate document. In creating a BHV Code, all of the ordinances except the Zoning Ordinance and the gas franchise will be combined in a single document. Codification does not change any of the content of the ordinances, but provides a more consistent standard of organization that will be easier to use.

The proposed code document can be reviewed and a copy obtained at the BHV Clerk’s Office in the Village Hall. Residents may comment on the proposed codification:
--by attending to speak in person at the November 9, 2015 Board of Trustees meeting which begins at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall, and/or
--by contacting any Trustee, and/or
--by sending written comments to the Trustees in care of the Clerk’s Office by mail (199 Barton
Shore Drive, Ann Arbor MI 48105), fax (734-222-9177) or email ([email protected]).

BHV RESIDENT DIRECTORY UPDATE Residents will soon receive a note from Deputy Clerk Jan Esch regarding update of the BHV Resident Directory. The Directory is only distributed to BHV residents to help them connect with each other, and no information is given out by the BHV staff. It will be very helpful if residents will respond when they receive the note from Jan so the Directory accurately reflects the information residents want to be included.

FALL CLEAN UP Please note the following:
--If you rake your own leaves, you can pile them near the road or driveway for BHV collection.
--Lawn services are expected to haul leaves away as part of their contract.
--Mulching leaves during mowing adds nutrients to the soil.
--Leaves can be raked into wooded areas to add nutrients there.
--Don’t pile leaves in the roadway where they will be a hazard to pedestrians and traffic.
--Don’t bag leaves, as BHV vacuums up the loose leaves.
--Leaf pick up will not be on trash pick up days since the same truck is used for both.
--Sort out sticks, rocks and debris that will clog/damage the leaf vacuum.
--Sticks and brush can be put in piles for separate pick up.
--Keep leaves, sticks and debris out of catch basins and gutters in the roads.

DRIVEWAY SEALING ADVISORY Applying sealcoat to asphalt driveways is a common practice that can improve the appearance and lifespan of the driveway. However, driveway sealcoats containing coal tar are incredibly high in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) which have been found to be harmful to both humans and the environment. When applied, PAHs volatilize into the air, affecting air quality. As the sealcoat weathers, dust from the pavement makes its way into homes on shoes and clothing. When it rains, loose particles move into soils, stormwater catch basins, lakes, and rivers. Coal tar sealants contain 1000 times more PAHs than asphalt-based sealants (a readily available alternative) and are the number one source of PAHs in lake sediments. Besides causing harm to mammals, birds, fish, amphibians and plants, cancer risks are elevated for people who are exposed to coal tar sealants over long periods of time.
BHV residents are encouraged to either eliminate sealcoating or to use asphalt-based sealants which are much safer and available both from application companies and from stores for application by homeowners. Do not tear out a pre-existing pavement that has been sealed with coal-tar, just to get rid of the coal-tar. A better choice would be to encapsulate the driveway with a different product like an asphalt-based sealcoat. For more information contact the Huron River Watershed Council at hrwc.org.

September 2015  VOL. LXI  No. 8

HALLOWEEN Dollie the Trolley is coming! Please see the attached flyer for all the details of the Halloween event being held on Saturday October 31.

FALL PICNIC The 44 adults and 9 children who attended the BHV Fall Picnic on Sunday September 13, 2015 enjoyed blue skies and pleasant fall temperatures along with lively conversation, delicious food, birthday cake, bubbles and croquet. Many thanks to the Recreation Committee and the BHV Staff for their efforts in setting up/cooking/cleaning up.

WHAT’S FIRST, THIRD AND FIFTH? BHV trash collection happens on the first, third and fifth Mondays of each month. While a special event may require an extra stop, the maintenance crew appreciates resident efforts to remember this regular trash collection schedule so other work duties can stay on schedule as well.

WHAT’S EVERY FOUR YEARS? Besides the presidential elections, septic tank maintenance for BHV residences is due every four years, or more frequently if needed (for septic, not presidents). Contact Jan Esch at the Village Hall when tank pumping appointments are set so a BHV staff member can come at the same time to fill out necessary paperwork. This regular maintenance, as required by BHV Ordinance 21, is very important in protecting the good environmental health of the Huron River watershed and BHV water resources.

WHAT ELSE IS THERE? While the answer to that is endless, here are some items on the BHV list:

--Continue to use the blue Household Hazardous Waste recycling bins to leave acceptable items for pick up on regular trash days (first, third and fifth Mondays of the month).

--For large item recycling, Washtenaw County is holding a Clean Up Day on Saturday, October 17, 2015 from 9AM – 2PM at EMU Rynearson Stadium parking lot. For more information contact Jan or go to www.ewashtenaw.org.

--Return the Barton Hills Maintenance Corporation shareholder ballot (budget vote) before 5PM Tuesday October 6, 2015.

--Remember to check out the BHV Project Review Process for any new construction, alteration of existing structures and landscape projects. This includes things like generators/AC, fences/landscape walls over 18”, exterior lights, play structures and accessory buildings. If in doubt, contact Jan who can verify if a project requires BHV approval before work begins.

--Take a look at the BHV Master Plan which is now five years old and was just reviewed by the BHV Planning Commission. While the Commissioners considered planning trends in Ann Arbor Township and other neighboring communities, they concluded that no changes were needed in the BHV Plan. The Master Plan sets forth the overall goals, policies and strategies that will enable the wellbeing of BHV in the future. The Master Plan is available from Jan at the Village Hall and online at vil-bartonhills.org.

--Check out other documents on the BHV website, such as Board agendas/minutes, ordinances (including zoning/project information), past Barton Bulletins, annual water quality reports and the Wellhead Protection Plan. These documents are also available in paper format from Jan at the Village Hall.

--Watch for information concerning update of the BHV Resident Directory. Jan will be verifying entries before publishing the Directory, which is only distributed to BHV residents to help them contact each other. The Directory is available in paper booklet and electronic format.

--Remember that the BHV staff will vacuum up leaves for homeowners who rake their own. Lawn service providers are expected to haul away whatever debris they gather. Please do not bag leaves for pick up, and separate out sticks and brush that clog up the leaf vacuum. Consider mulching (mulched leaves provide nutrients for lawns) and removing leaves from catch basins to keep decaying leaves (that rob fish of vital oxygen) out of the waterways.

IS THAT ALL? Yes, for now. Thanks for reading all the way to the end!

August 2015  VOL. LXI  No. 7

DATES TO NOTE

Monday September 7     LABOR DAY Trash collection will be on Tuesday September 8 Regular trash days first, third and fifth Mondays

Sunday September 13    BHV PICNIC Please RSVP to Jan Esch by September 8   Join your neighbors for food and fun Village Green 5 PM Contact Jan for details

Monday September 14   TAXES DUE Barton Hills Village property taxes payable no later than this date to avoid penalties

Saturday October 31 HALLOWEEN Watch for information about Dollie the Trolley Halloween Trick-or-Treat event coming soon

RESIDENT DIRECTORY UPDATE The BHV Resident Directory will be updated this fall. The Directory lists resident name and address, with options for phone, email and family code. The purpose of the Directory is to help residents contact each other. The Directory is not distributed to anyone other than BHV residents and no information is given out by BHV staff. Contact Deputy Clerk Jan Esch to ask about or change your directory listing.

COMING SOON School buses will join the walkers, joggers, bicyclists, kids, slow drivers, pet walkers, lawn service vehicles, people getting their mail, low hanging branches, hidden driveways, speed tables and, of course, deer –all things that may surprise you when you come around that curve or over that rise. Please continue to observe speed limits and be ready for sudden stops as you drive our beautiful, winding roads.

ALREADY HERE Several residents have reported hearing and seeing coyotes in BHV. While this is nothing new, the presence of coyotes is becoming more evident. Following is information from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website. (www.michigan.gov/dnr > wildlife>mammals>coyotes) (By the way, the missing black cat mentioned in the last Barton Bulletin was found and returned to her joyful owners so no coyote bad news there J )
Coyotes are found throughout Michigan. Their presence in urban or suburban areas, while surprising to many folks, is not uncommon due to increasing populations (both coyote and human) and encroachment of human environments into their natural habitat.
Coyotes can be difficult to distinguish from a medium sized German shepherd dog from a distance. There is wide variation in the coyote's color, but generally their upper body is yellowish gray, and the fur covering the throat and belly is white to cream color. The coyote's ears are pointed and stand erect, unlike the ears of domestic dogs that often droop. When observed running, coyotes carry their bushy, black tipped tail below the level of their back. (Wolves, which are found in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, are larger than coyotes and carry their tail in a horizontal position while running.) The size and weight of coyotes are commonly overestimated, because their long fur masks a bone structure that is slighter than that of most domestic dogs.
Coyotes are active day and night. Peaks in activity occur at sunrise and sunset with feeding generally done at night. Coyotes are opportunistic and will eat almost anything available. Small mammals such as mice, voles, rabbits and squirrels are preferred foods. However, insects, fruits, berries, birds, frogs, snakes, plants, and seeds round out their diet. In areas with high deer numbers, carrion resulting from vehicle deer collisions, natural causes and other losses is an important source of food. In urban areas, coyotes are attracted to garbage, garden vegetables, and pet foods. They will also prey on unattended small dogs and cats, if opportunities exist.
Coyotes rarely attack humans. However, coyotes that are fed become accustomed to people and present a human safety risk. People should never intentionally feed or attempt to tame coyotes. It is in the best interest of both coyotes and humans if coyotes retain their instinctive fear of people. The following important points can help minimize potential conflicts with coyotes:
--Never approach or touch a coyote
--Never intentionally feed a coyote
--Eliminate all outside food sources, especially pet foods
--Put garbage out the morning of pickup day
-Clear out wood and brush piles; they are good habitat for rats and mice and may attract coyotes
--Do not allow pets to roam free when coyotes are present - consider keeping pets indoors or accompany them outside, especially at night

WATER UPDATE Thank you for your patience and cooperation during the cleaning and painting of the BHV water tower. The project has been completed and all is back to normal. Installation of new water line along Forest and Oakdale Roads west of Colliston Road will begin soon. Access to homes and one lane of traffic will be maintained during the project; however it will be best to avoid this area until construction is completed. For questions or concerns please call Supt. Walter Esch (734-368-7874) or the Village Hall (734-222-5209).

BHV PICNIC Please contact the Clerk’s Office for information about the 9/13/15 picnic.

PROJECT REVIEW UPDATE Per the BHV Zoning Ordinance, Project Review is required for all new construction, exterior alteration of existing structures and landscape projects in Barton Hills Village.
This includes:
--fences and retaining walls greater than 18” high
--accessory buildings (garage, garden shed, gazebo, etc)
--excavation other than common household gardening/ground care
--stairways/patio enclosures
--solar/wind energy/satellite communications structures
--generators/AC equipment
--playground equipment
--exterior lighting
--outdoor swimming pools
--parking areas

Routine maintenance and repairs do not require review unless there will be a change in materials or structure. Significant changes in approved plans require a secondary review.
Project Review includes a PreProject Conference, Barton Hills Village Zoning Review, Barton Hills Maintenance Corporation Architectural Review and Ann Arbor Township Building Inspection/Permits/Soil Erosion requirements.
No construction or cutting of trees may commence until all approvals are completed.

The BHV Zoning Ordinance also includes the following Fee Schedule and Policy, adopted by the BHV Board of Trustees on July 13, 2015. Fees are user-based rather than taxpayer supported so those benefiting from the ordinance are assessed fees according to services provided. Please read the following information carefully as it is different from what has been done in the past. For more information or to begin a project, contact Deputy Clerk Jan Esch at the Village Hall (734-222-5209; [email protected]).

BARTON HILLS VILLAGE FEE SCHEDULE AND POLICY Effective July 13, 2015

The Barton Hills Village Board of Trustees adopts the following Fee Schedule and Policy to defray costs pursuant to the BHV Zoning Ordinance as required by Section 3.07 of the ordinance.

An application for zoning compliance shall be accompanied by payment of a fee in the amount of $75.

Any permit, review, approval or appeal requiring a public hearing will be assessed a fee of $50 in addition to the $75 application fee to cover the cost of notice publication and administrative notification expenses.

Actual cost for the use of engineering, planning, legal or other consultants shall be paid by the applicant according to the invoice submitted by the consultant.

Applicants shall be informed of applicable fees and/or potential costs as soon as possible in the application process.

No permit, certificate, special use approval or variance shall be issued unless such fees and expenses are paid in full, and no action may be taken on proceedings before the Zoning Board of Appeals unless required fees have been paid in full.

Payment shall be submitted to the Barton Hills Village Clerk’s Office in the form of a check made out to Barton Hills Village and receipt for payment shall be issued to the applicant by the Clerk’s Office.

BHMC The Barton Hills Maintenance Corporation will hold its Annual Shareholders Meeting on Wednesday, August 12, 2015 beginning at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall. All BHMC shareholders will soon receive direct communication regarding the meeting.

LOST CAT A black cat named Raven is missing from the Underdown Road/Barton Shore Drive area. If you have any information please contact Jan Esch (734-222-5209, [email protected])

June 2015  VOL. LXI  No. 5

WATER TOWER UPDATE Cleaning and painting of the BHV water tower is progressing well. When the actual work is done there will still be some wait time while the paint cures and the tower is refilled/treated/tested. You will receive notice as soon as the project is complete. Thank you for your cooperation in keeping your sprinkler systems off and limiting unusual use of water, which helps the staff to maintain adequate water supply to all homes. For questions or concerns please call Supt. Walter Esch (734-368-7874) or the Village Hall (734-222-5209).

FOIA POLICY In compliance with current legislation, the BHV Board of Trustees adopted a new policy regarding the Freedom of Information Act. The policy details how to submit a FOIA request, how requests are processed, what costs may be incurred and how to submit an appeal. A shorter, easier-to-read summary of the policy has also been adopted. Both the policy and the summary are posted on the BHV website (vil-bartonhills.org) and are available in
paper copy from the Clerk’s Office.

HOLIDAY FIREWORKS Barton Hills Country Club will be holding their annual member celebration of Independence Day with fireworks on Friday, June 26, 2015. Families with dogs and young children who might be upset by the noise should make appropriate arrangements. Residents are also advised to use extreme caution when setting off any legal fireworks, taking great care to prevent fires, injury or damage.

ENVIRONMENTAL NEWS The BHV Board of Trustees Environmental Committee has provided the following important information: Residents recently received a flyer from Eradico advertising a spraying program for mosquitoes which raised red flags for several reasons, the main one being the chemicals used.   When we first received their information a couple of years ago, we did the homework on this product. We feel it important to share the results with you.

Barton Pond, owned by the City of Ann Arbor, is the source of most of the Ann Arbor water supply. In evaluating information provided by Eradico, environmental and water staff at the City of Ann Arbor report: “[The chemical] is not soluble in water.  It sinks to the bottom where one locates [water] intakes.  It is highly toxic to fish, invertebrates and bees.  It is classified in SARA II as an acute and chronic health hazard.”   Along with the City and the Huron River Watershed Council we highly recommend AGAINST using this spraying service. There are very effective alternatives, such as a small device called ThermaCELL that repels mosquitoes effectively at a fraction of the price of this dangerous spraying and with no damage to the environment and health (Ortho also makes a similar product). These and other methods are widely available in hardware and big box stores.

Trustee Cheryl MacKrell would be glad to share about her family’s successful mosquito-battling experiences (668-6628). Thank you for being thoughtful and cautious about this and all products that could have harmful environmental consequences.

CANINE CONVERSATIONS Please be paying attention to what your dog friends are saying when barking goes on for more than a few minutes, especially early in the morning and later in the afternoon/evening when neighbors have windows open and are enjoying the lovely outdoors. You may be used to their excessive communication but others are not.

DIRECTORY UPDATE Contact Clerk’s Office for information

LAWN AND GARDEN CARE (contact the BHV Clerk’s office for more details)

--Michigan law requires use of phosphorus free lawn fertilizer except in specific cases so look for fertilizers with a middle number of 0 (first number is nitrogen, second is phosphorus, third is potassium). Excess phosphorus in the waterways contributes to excessive aquatic plant grown, nuisance algal blooms and decreased oxygen levels.

--For healthy lawns, mow high to promote root growth (3” is recommended). Water sparingly, as overwatering promotes plant damage, fungal growth and nutrient leaching (sprinklers should not be on in the rain!) Automatic sprinklers need a moisture detection element. Also consider more shrubs/flowers instead of grass, deep-rooted native plants, rain barrels and rain gardens.

STAFF VACATIONS Notice will be posted on the door of the Village Hall when there are variations in office hours due to staff vacations. Contact information is also kept up to date on the Village Hall phone message available any time at 734-222-5209.

June 2015  VOL. LXI  No. 4

IMPORTANT WATER NOTICE The BHV water tower on Country Club Road is being cleaned and painted. During this time it will be necessary to monitor the water system closely to ensure adequate water supply to all homes. Residents are asked to turn off outdoor sprinkler systems. Outdoor plants may be watered with a garden hose and normal indoor water use may continue but please avoid unusual activities that would involve greater water use. Weather permitting, the tower project should take about two weeks to complete. For questions or concerns please call Supt. Walter Esch (734-368-7874) or the Village Hall (734-222-5209).

NO TRASH When bringing recyclables to the green bin in the maintenance yard, please do not leave any household trash. Animals are attracted to bagged trash and quickly make a mess that is unsightly, smelly and unhealthy. If you have an overflow of trash that can’t wait until the next regular collection day, please call Supt. Esch or the Village Hall for a special pick up.

Recyclable containers should be clean (rinsed out) with caps off and placed in the proper bins. Corrugated cardboard such as pizza boxes may be left outside the green bin but should also be free of leftover food scraps as much as possible. The trash can by the green bin is for incidental non-food trash only. Thanks for helping to keep our recycling area clean and pleasant.

BHMC ANNUAL MEETING The Barton Hills Maintenance Corporation Annual Stockholders’ Meeting was not held on Monday, May 11, 2015. Shareholders will receive written notice of the rescheduled meeting date.

SUMMER REMINDERS

--Please watch your speed and drive with extra caution on these lovely days when walkers, joggers, bikers, children and wild animals may all be sharing our winding, hilly roads.

--Remember that sounds carry so please be mindful of your neighbors when playing music, using power equipment and enjoying other outdoor activities, especially in the evenings.

--Garlic mustard is in full swing so please join the battle against this invasive herb. Pulling by hand is the simplest and most effective approach, especially for small or isolated infestations. Be sure to remove the upper portion of the root as well as the stem, since buds on the roots can produce additional stems. To prevent spreading of seeds, pile pulled garlic mustard plants by your driveway or road to be picked up and disposed of by BHV staff. Cutting with a weed whip or mower can be effective if the cutting is done as close to the ground as possible. Frequent repeated cutting will be necessary. Also, since garlic mustard is a disturbance-adapted plant, management efforts should focus on reducing vegetation disturbance and supporting healthy growth of other more desirable plants. For more information go to the many online resources such as www.msu.edu/invasive_species/garlic_mustard.

--You may have received advertising that suggests BHV is planning to address insect infestation using Eradico products. BHV is not conducting any insect control and does not recommend any particular company or product. Please check labels and information carefully on any insect or vegetation control products/services to ensure that water and land resources will not be significantly harmed by chemicals.

--Please be aware that coyotes have been seen in BHV and be appropriately cautious as you would be with any wildlife.

--The Seventh Day Adventist Church is again sponsoring youth summer missionary projects. Young people from the church may come to your door offering information and soliciting support. While this activity is legally allowed and the church has provided contact information to BHV, you are under no obligation to speak with anyone coming to your door.

DIRECTORY UPDATE Contact the Clerk’s office for information

LOOKING AHEAD The Barton Hills Village Picnic will be held on Sunday afternoon September 13, 2015. Mark your calendars now and watch for the invitation later this year.

May 2015  VOL. LXI  No. 3

ANNUAL MEETINGS All BHV residents are encouraged to attend the annual meetings:
The Barton Hills Village Annual Meeting will be held on Monday, May 11, 2015 beginning at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall. Regular business will be conducted by the Board of Trustees in addition to acceptance of annual committee reports (contact the Clerk's office for committee and financal reports). The Board will receive comment from the residents on any issues of concern. A public comment period is also on the agenda for all Board of Trustees meetings, which are held the second Monday of each month at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall.

The Barton Hills Maintenance Corporation Annual Stockholders’ Meeting will also be held on Monday, May 11, 2015 immediately following the BHV Annual Meeting. Shareholders and the BHMC Board of Directors will discuss the approval process for the annual budget which is the basis for the annual assessment, along with any other topics raised by the shareholders.

NEW ORDINANCES At their April 13, 2015 meeting the Board of Trustees adopted Ordinances No. 49 (Repeal of ordinances 13, 17 & 22), 50 (Amend Planning Commission) and 51 (Civil infraction procedure). The full text of each ordinance is available in paper copy from the Clerk’s Office and is posted on the BHV website at vil-bartonhills.org.

WATERSHED NEWS

The Washtenaw County Water Resources Commission is conducting an on-line survey on landscape practices and keeping pollution out of the river. The survey is easy to complete and participants can enter to win a $15 gift card (one gift card awarded every two weeks from April 15 – August 31, 2015). Go to http://tinyurl.com/RainGardenSurveys and enter the word BARTON in the Response ID box. Survey results will be shared with BHV and will help guide community efforts to keep the beautiful Huron River clean and healthy.

Attached is a new Huron River Watershed Council publication Waterfront Wisdom full of helpful information about creating and maintaining a beautiful and healthy waterfront (contact Clerk's office for attachment). While not all BHV properties directly abut the river, runoff is carried to the river by streams and tiles. Polluted runoff (called nonpoint source pollution) is a greater threat than industrial discharge as rainwater and melting snow wash contaminants such as fertilizers, pet waste and oils into drains
and ditches that empty into the waterways. Healthy wetlands, waterway vegetation buffers, soil erosion control and well managed home/garden care all help in controlling pollution.

The Huron River Watershed Council, of which BHV is a member, has lots of useful information and fun activities devoted to protecting and enjoying water resources. Check out their website at www.hrwc.org or contact the BHV Clerk’s Office to learn more.

Lawn Debris When collecting leaves for pick up, please don’t bag them, since the BHV crew has to unbag the leaves to dispose of them. Also, sticks and brush should not be cut to shorter lengths and please don’t bundle them, as the ties have to be removed to run the sticks through the chipper. Thanks!

DOG LICENSES Dog licensing is mandated by Michigan Public Act 339 to protect public safety by ensuring that all dogs are vaccinated against rabies. Avoid the Washtenaw County $50 fine by obtaining a dog license at http://dogs.ewashtenaw.org or phoning Washtenaw County at 734-222-6600. Licenses cost from $6-30.

BOATER SAFETY Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office is offering free Boater Safety Courses on Saturdays this summer (one day class 8 AM-4 PM) at the Sheriff’s Office Service Center Campus on Hogback Road. Preregistration is required. For more information contact Cpl. Tom Mercure at 734-973-4713 or .

LOOKING AHEAD The Barton Hills Village Picnic will be held on Sunday afternoon September 13, 2015. Mark your calendars now and watch for the invitation later this year.

DON’T FORGET TO VOTE! Special election Tuesday May 5, 2015. Polls are open from 7 AM-8 PM. Polling location is Ann Arbor Township Hall, 3792 Pontiac Trail, Ann Arbor 48105. State Proposal 15-1 (road finance) and Ann Arbor Public School Bond Proposal. A sample ballot is available from Ann Arbor Township at www.aatwp.org; 734-663-3418.

March 2015  VOL. LXI  No. 2

SPRING IS HERE! Some reminders about spring activities:

Lawn Debris BHV staff will pick up brush and sticks gathered by homeowners for disposal (lawn service providers are expected to haul away their clean-up debris). Place piles near the driveway or road where the staff can see and collect them as their work schedule allows.

Septic Pumping Please contact the BHV Clerk’s Office when making an appointment for septic pumping so a staff member can come at the same time to fill out necessary paperwork. BHV Ordinance No. 21 requires pumping at least every 4 years or more often as needed.

Driveway Sealing Consider an asphalt-based sealcoat rather than coal-tars that are high in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) which have been identified as toxic and are easily spread by weather elements. For more information check out the Huron River Watershed Council website at www.hrwc.org/coaltar. (Lots of other interesting information at that site too)

Garlic Mustard Control Garlic mustard is an aggressive invasive herb that crowds out native plant species in and near forested areas. Early spring is the ideal time to look for and pull out the dark purple/green rosettes with kidney-shaped, scalloped-edge leaves growing close to the ground. Pull the upper portion of the root as well as the stem, and leave the pulled plants out for pick up and proper disposal by BHV staff. More information about garlic mustard will be printed in subsequent Barton Bulletins and is also widely available on line.

Event Planning As outdoor parties and celebrations increase, please consider guest parking, noise levels and other things that could impact neighbors. Contact Supt. Walter Esch (734-368-7874) for great advice in handling extra cars while maintaining safe roadways.

Traffic Safety Drivers please use extra caution and lower speeds to avoid contact with wildlife, pedestrians, joggers, dog-walkers and service workers who may be in the traffic lanes. Bicyclists should ride with traffic, single file when vehicles are present. Walkers/runners should face traffic and also be single file when vehicles approach.

Ecological Burning From now until May 29, 2015 on weekdays between 11 AM and 7 PM Ann Arbor City may be conducting controlled burns in natural areas near BHV which may cause smoke/haze. For more information contact Ann Arbor City Natural Area Preservation at A2gov.org/NAP or 734-794-6627.

ORDINANCE CODIFICATION (What’s that?) An ordinance is a law or regulation made by a city or village government. Ordinances are rules that communities agree to abide by to promote public safety and well-being.

Codification means to put things in order. BHV has nearly forty individual ordinances, each of which is a separate piece of legislation that requires a specific process to change. When gathered together into a code, the individual parts can be more easily updated and amended.

The BHV Board of Trustees has been working on the codification of the Village ordinances. The first step is to make sure the ordinances are up to date and accurate.

The Trustees follow a procedure to adopt or amend ordinances: consideration of the proposed ordinance at a Board meeting, printing the proposed ordinance in the Barton Bulletin so residents have opportunity to read and comment, more consideration at a subsequent Board meeting, approval, and printing of the final ordinance in the Barton Bulletin/on the BHV website.

Following are three ordinances proposed at the March 9, 2015 BHV Board of Trustees meeting that will aid in the codification process. Residents may comment on the ordinances:
--by attending to speak in person at the April 13, 2015 Board of Trustees meeting which begins
at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall, and/or
--by contacting any Trustee, and/or
--by sending written comments to the Trustees in care of the Clerk’s Office by mail (199 Barton
Shore Drive, Ann Arbor MI 48105), fax (734-222-9177) or email ([email protected]).

PROPOSED ORDINANCE No. 49 Repeal three ordinances that are still active but no longer have a legal effect.
Section 1. Repeal
Ordinances 13, 17 and 22 are repealed.
Section 2. Effective date
This ordinance shall take effect upon publication.

PROPOSED ORDINANCE No. 50 Amend Ord. 26 & 27 Planning Commission to read as follows.
SECTION 1. CREATION AND MEMBERSHIP OF PLANNING COMMISSION
A. A seven member Planning Commission is created under the Michigan Planning Enabling Act, MCL 125.3801 et seq.
B. The Village President shall appoint the members of the Planning Commission, subject to approval of the Village Board of Trustees.
C. The membership of the Planning Commission shall be representative of important segments of the community, such as the economic, governmental, educational, and social development of the municipality, in accordance with the major interests as they exist in the municipality, such as agriculture, natural resources, recreation, education, public health, government, transportation, industry, and commerce. The membership shall also be representative of the entire geography of the Village to the extent practicable.
D. Members of the Planning Commission shall be qualified electors of the municipality, except that up to two Planning Commission members may be individuals who are not qualified electors of the Village.
E. Members of the Planning Commission, other than ex officio members, shall be appointed for three-year terms. However, initial appointments shall be made so that the terms of two Commission members expire each year.
F. One member of the Board of Trustees shall be appointed as an ex official member of the Planning Commission. That appointment shall expire at the end of that member’s term of office as a trustee.
G. All appointed members of the Planning Commission may be compensated at a rate to be determined by the legislative body.
H. The ex officio member of the Planning Commission shall have full voting rights.
SECTION 2. VACANCY
If a vacancy occurs on the Planning Commission, the vacancy shall be filled for the unexpired term in the same manner as provided for an original appointment. A member shall hold office until his or her successor is appointed.
SECTION 3. REMOVAL
The Board of Trustees may remove a member of the Planning Commission for misfeasance, malfeasance, or nonfeasance in office upon written charges and after a public hearing. Before casting a vote on a matter on which a member may reasonably be considered to have a conflict of interest as defined in the Planning Commission bylaws, the member shall disclose the potential conflict of interest to the Planning Commission. The member is disqualified from voting on the matter if so provided by the Planning Commission bylaws or by a majority vote of the remaining members of the Planning Commission. Failure of a member to disclose a potential conflict of interest as required by this subsection constitutes malfeasance in office. A conflict of interest exists if a member has a direct financial interest in a matter before the Commission.
SECTION 4. PLANNING COMMISSION OFFICERS
At its first regular meeting each year, the Planning Commission shall elect a chairperson, vice-chairperson, and secretary from among its members. An ex officio member of the Planning Commission is not eligible to serve as chairperson or vice-chairperson.
SECTION 5. MEETINGS
A. The Planning Commission shall hold not less than four regular meetings each year.
B. The Planning Commission shall adopt bylaws for transaction of business and shall keep a record of its resolutions, transactions, findings, and determinations, which record shall be a public record.
C. Meetings of the Planning Commission are subject to the Open Meetings Act, as amended MCL 15.261 et seq, and the Freedom of Information Act, MCL 15.231 et seq.
SECTION 6. FUNDING
The expenditures of the Planning Commission, exclusive of gifts, shall be within the amounts appropriated for the purpose by the Board of Trustees, which shall provide the funds, equipment, and accommodations necessary for the Planning Commission’s work.
SECTION 7. MASTER PLAN
The Planning Commission shall make and approve a master plan in accordance with the provisions of the Planning Enabling Act.

PROPOSED ORDINANCE No. 51 Establish civil infraction procedures.
Section 1. Initiation of civil infraction enforcement.
Enforcement action regarding violation of a Village ordinance designated as a civil infraction may be started in two ways:
A. A citation may be issued requiring an appearance in District Court 14A.
B. A violation notice may be issued which will permit payment of a fine at the Village Violations Bureau.
Section 2. Service of citations and notices.
A. Civil infraction citations and notices shall be served by persons authorized by ordinance or by resolution of the Board of Trustees.
B. Civil infraction citations and notices shall be on the forms approved by the State Court Administrative Office.
C. Service and processing of civil infraction citations and notices shall be made in accordance with MCL 800.8705, MCL 800.8707 and MCL 800.8709.
Section 3. violations bureau.
The Violations Bureau is established in the Village Hall, 199 Barton Shore Drive. Persons or organizations served with civil infraction notices may admit responsibility and pay the civil fine specified on the violation notice at the Violations Bureau. If the civil fine is not paid, a civil infraction citation shall be issued and be processed with 14A District Court in the manner specified in MCL 800.8707. Fine money paid at the Violations Bureau shall be retained by the Village.
Section 4. Civil fines payable at the Violations Bureau.
Civil fines payable at the Village Violation Bureau shall be in accordance with the following schedule. A repeat offense is one occurring within six months of the previous offense.

Ordinance number and subject	First Offense	First Repeat Offense	Second and subsequent repeat offenses
2. Disorderly conduct	$100	$200	$500
5. Noise	$100	$200	$500
12. Auctions	$25	$50	$100
14. Dogs	$75	$200	$400
21. Septic systems	$100	$200	$500
29. Geothermal systems	$500	$1,000	$2,000
32. Road use	$25	$100	$200
33. Traffic	$100	$200	$300
36. Tree maintenance	$25	$50	$100
37. Illicit discharge	$100	$200	$500
40. Bicycles	$25	$50	$100
41. Signs	$50	$100	$200
46. Pedestrians	$25	$50	$100
48. Zoning	$100	$200	$500

                                                                                                                                  February 2015  VOL. LXI  No. 1

PUBLIC BUDGET HEARING Barton Hills Village will hold a public budget hearing at the Village Hall, 199 Barton Shore Drive, on Monday, March 9, 2015 beginning at 6:00 PM. A copy of the proposed budget for fiscal year 2015-2016 will be on file and available to the public in the Clerk’s Office after March 1, 2015. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be the subject of this hearing.

WATER CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REPORT The attached annual report for calendar year 2014 is published in compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act and summarizes the status of the BHV water system during the last calendar year. Please read it carefully and contact the numbers given for questions or concerns.

DIRECTORY UPDATE Please contact the Clerk’s office for information.

IN SYMPATHY Deepest sympathies to the families of Pamela Shultz and Douglas Sherwin, former long-time residents who passed away recently.

SECURITY REMINDER Since tax season is here, be aware of scams perpetrated by people who are posing as Internal Revenue Service (IRS) agents. Callers claim that money is owed and legal action will follow. The IRS will never contact anyone by phone to collect on debts. You can simply hang up on the caller; you can also report the scam to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at 800-366-4484. If you need tax information call the IRS at 800-829-1040 or visit www.irs.gov. Forward any emails from the IRS to . Do not open attachments or click on links in suspicious emails. Never give personal information over the phone unless you initiate the call and/or are sure of the recipient.

Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Department reported a recent burglary near BHV. Remember to keep things locked up and be watchful.

TRASH/RECYCLING Winter weather and holidays can play havoc with schedules, but trash collection days are kept as consistent as possible on the first, third and fifth Mondays of the month. Collection begins at 7:30 AM so please plan accordingly.

Please do not put corrugated cardboard boxes in the green recycling bin. BHV recycles these boxes in another way that doesn’t involve the expense of the green bin exchange, so just leave corrugated cardboard alongside the building next to the green bin.

THINK SPRING! With all the white still surrounding us, thoughts of spring may be a major antidote to cabin fever. While you’re leafing through seed catalogs and dreaming of warmer days, please keep these things in mind:

--If you’re planning an outdoor project, please check with the BHV Clerk’s office about necessary approvals. The BHV Zoning Ordinance covers all structures including porches, decks, patios and terraces, accessory buildings, fences, walls over 18” tall, lighting and play structures

--Take a look at where the snow is piled up this year, for reference when you think about plantings, lights, sprinklers and other aspects of landscaping. Such items that are beautiful in the warm weather are invisible under the snow, making it difficult for the snowplow drivers to determine where to drive. The trucks plow from the road towards your house and the snow has to go somewhere at the end—an important thought to consider when planting bushes or placing decorative elements.

--If a sprinkler system is part of your dream, please keep water conservation in mind. Systems with moisture sensors will save energy and money as well as providing just the right amount of water for your location.

--Consider using native plants which have adapted to regional conditions over a long period of time. They are drought resistant due to deep root systems, disease resistant, require little to no fertilizer and improve soil quality while working in community with each other and other habitat members.

Only 17 days until Daylight Savings Time begins (March 8)!

Only 29 days until the first day of Spring (March 20)!

December 2014  VOL. LX  No. 14

NEW ZONING ORDINANCE  At their December 8, 2014 meeting the Board of Trustees adopted Ordinance No. 48 (Zoning) which replaces BHV Zoning Ordinance No. 8. The text of the ordinance is available in paper copy from the Clerk’s Office and is posted on the BHV website at vil-bartonhills.org.

The Zoning Ordinance states [Section 3.03A] “Anyone who proposes to construct, alter any portion of the exterior of or move a building or structure…shall obtain a certificate of zoning compliance…” A structure is defined as “Anything constructed or erected, the use of which requires location on the ground or attachment to something having a location on the ground.”

So when you’re thinking about any exterior project (including landscaping), please contact Jan at the Village Hall to check on zoning requirements. BHV officials have worked hard to make the process as simple as possible and continue to work hard to complete reviews in a timely manner.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES The BHV Board of Trustees has set the following regular meeting dates for 2015: January 12, February 9, March 9, April 13, May 11 (annual meeting), June 8, July 13, August 10, September 14, October 12, November 9 and December 14. Board agendas and minutes are posted at the Village Hall and on the BHV website.

PLANNING COMMISSION The BHV Planning Commission has approved the following regular meeting dates for 2015: March 3, June 2, September 1 and December 1.

2015 CALENDARS Attached to this Bulletin is a 2015 Mini Calendar produced by the Huron River Watershed Council. Besides the monthly dates there are beautiful photographs from the watershed and great ideas to help you become an H2O Hero who protects water quality every day. BHV partners with other watershed members to encourage simple actions that prevent water pollution and help maintain a healthy environment for everyone.

SECURITY REMINDER Since the holidays can be a time of increased criminal activity, residents are reminded to keep their home, garage and vehicle doors and windows locked, and valuables out of sight. Be aware of surroundings and report any security concerns to Supt. Walter Esch at 734-368-7874 or phone 911 for the Washtenaw County Sheriff.

HOLIDAY OFFICE HOURS The Village Hall (Clerk and Treasurer’s offices) will be closed from Tuesday December 23, 2014 through Friday January 2, 2015. Regular office hours (8:30-11:30 AM Monday-Thursday) will resume Monday January 5, 2015. If you have an urgent need please call the Village Hall number and follow the after hours instructions.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN The BHV Hazard Mitigation Plan is reviewed by the Board of Trustees every five years. Following is their report approved on December 8, 2014.

Barton Hills Village Hazard Mitigation Plan 5 Year Review Report December 1, 2014

Hazard Mitigation is defined as any action taken before, during or after a disaster to permanently eliminate or reduce risks to human life and property from natural, technical or societal hazards. Communities can expect to encounter hazards of varying degrees, and advance planning is an important step towards lessening the impact of such hazards.

The BHV Hazard Mitigation Plan (HM Plan) was prepared by Washtenaw County with participation from representatives of BHV. It was adopted by resolution of the Board of Trustees on October 19, 2004 and reaffirmed by resolution of the Board of Trustees on December 14, 2009 at which time the review schedule was amended to provide for 5-year rather than annual reviews. Updates every 5 years by Washtenaw County and Barton Hills Village are required steps to keep the plan relevant to the needs of the citizens.

The three purposes of the HM Plan are:
1) to identify and rank hazards in Barton Hills Village
2) to analyze areas particularly vulnerable to hazards
3) to identify feasible mitigation strategies that can be acted upon

Ranking of hazards was determined on a county-wide basis with adjustment for local perspective using a program provided by the Michigan State Police Emergency Management Division. The program takes into account worst-case scenario data for frequency of occurrence, likelihood of occurrence, significance of impact/threat, potential size of geographic area impacted and total population impacted. The hazard ranking for BHV is:

1) convective weather (tornadoes, severe winds, hail, lightning)
2) hazardous material transportation
3) infrastructure failures
4) severe winter weather
5) wildfire hazards
6) structural fire hazards
7) drought
8) nuclear power plant accidents
9) extreme temperatures
10) public health emergencies

Communication with the Washtenaw County Emergency Management office in late November 2014 confirmed that there have been no significant updates to the Washtenaw County HM Plan (posted on line at www.ewashtenaw.org/government/departments/ planning_environment/ planning/planning/hazard_html) or to the Barton Hills Village HM Plan, which is a section of the county document.

Activity in the period from December 1, 2009 to December 1, 2014

1) Convective weather. BHV continues to experience convective weather although there have not been reports of damage from tornadoes, hail or lightning. High winds have caused tree damage/some loss of power.
Actions:
--BHV continues trimming of dead/dying trees on BHV property, with notices in the Barton Bulletin urging residents to do the same on their property. Adoption of BHV Ordinance No. 36-Trees in January 2011 supports these efforts. Vegetation is trimmed to improve sight distance on BHV roadways.
--Investigation of the emergency siren coverage continues. Funding from outside sources has not been available. Information is given to residents when they move into the Village concerning emergency information radio and on-line providers.

2) Hazardous material transportation. There have been no hazardous material transportation incidents in BHV. Hazardous spills on nearby expressways have occurred at least once and have been addressed by county/state responders in a timely manner.

3) Infrastructure failures. Convective weather does cause power outages in BHV. However, the frequency and severity of such outages has been reduced since DTE Energy improvements were accomplished in 2009-10.
Actions:
--BHV now has an emergency contact number that allows for reporting outage information to DTE Energy efficiently and effectively.
--An emergency generator for the municipal water system was installed in 2011.

BHV infrastructure is continually being reviewed and improved as needed.
Actions:
--update of the Water System Contingency Plan in August 2013.
--maintain hazardous spills protection devices in the maintenance area.

4) Severe winter weather. Winter weather has become more severe in the past year or two; however BHV staff have successfully maintained the public roadways and addressed residential concerns.
Actions:
--plowing equipment has been replaced as needed.
--adequate salt supplies have been purchased.

5) Wildfire hazards. There have been no wildfire incidents in BHV.
Actions:
--information concerning fire safety is printed periodically in the Barton Bulletin.

6) Structural fire hazards. There have not been any structural fires in BHV. There have been minor incidents of interior fire damage, most recently related to a suspected power surge following storm damage in summer 2014. Ann Arbor Township Fire Department responded in a timely manner.
Actions:
--fire safety information is printed periodically in the Barton Bulletin. Residents are advised to call 911 for emergencies.

7) Drought. There have been no incidents of serious drought in BHV.

8) Nuclear power plant accidents. There have been no nuclear power plant accidents in or near BHV.

9) Extreme temperatures. There have been no incidents of extreme temperatures in BHV.

10) There have been no public health emergencies in or near BHV.

Actions:

--residents receive an emergency preparedness booklet provided by Washtenaw County.

--information regarding West Nile Virus is published in the Barton Bulletin periodically.

--an email contact list has been established for emergency notification to residents.

--all BHV staff members are trained in CPR/First Aid (Red Cross certification).

--BHV maintenance personnel are trained in gas pipeline safety.

--the annual Water Consumer Confidence Report is provided to every BHV household.

Besides continuation of actions listed above, other strategies listed below may be considered by the Board in the coming 5-year period. Implementation of strategies is based on availability of funding and staff resources.
--publication of emergency radio and on line information providers in the Barton Bulletin
--publication of Lyme disease information in the Barton Bulletin
--notice to BHV residents re: emergency preparedness materials available

USUAL REMINDERS Often repeated, but always important…….

Fall leaves and landscaping vegetation. BHV staff will pick up material that has been raked by the homeowner. Landscape and maintenance companies/employees are expected to haul away the debris they gather.
Snow removal. Please keep in mind that the BHV plows need a place to put the snow from your driveway, and sometimes have difficulty working around parked cars, landscape elements and other obstacles.
Septic maintenance. Please call Jan when you have your septic tank pumped (at least every four years) so BHV staff can complete necessary paperwork at the same time.

Happy Holidays!  

November 2014  VOL. LX  No. 13

ZONING ORDINANCE The Board of Trustees proposes adoption of Ordinance No. 48 (Zoning) which would replace the current BHV Zoning Ordinance No. 8. The text of the ordinance is posted on the BHV website (vil-bartonhills.org) under “Ordinances” (titled “Proposed Zoning Ordinance 8-19-14” along with accompanying document “Notice RE Proposed Zoning Ordinance 8-19-14”). Paper copies are available from the Clerk’s Office. Residents may comment on the ordinance:
--by attending to speak in person at the December 8, 2014 Board of Trustees meeting which begins at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall, and/or
--by contacting any Trustee, and/or
--by sending written comments to the Trustees in care of the Clerk’s Office by mail (199 Barton
Shore Drive, Ann Arbor MI 48105), fax (734-222-9177) or email ([email protected]).

SNOW PLOWING/SALTING This week’s dusting of snow is only a taste of what is to come and the BHV maintenance crew is getting ready for more of the white stuff. Roads are plowed and salted by the crew in the order of primary roads, secondary roads, and driveways beginning with the steepest ones. Road salt is used sparingly to protect the environment but adequately to ensure safe travel. Please use extra caution on snowy days, watching for pedestrians and wildlife, and remember the speed tables, which may not be as visible under the snow (but will still be felt!)

SECURITY REMINDER Since the holidays can be a time of increased criminal activity, residents are reminded to keep their home, garage and vehicle doors and windows locked, and valuables out of sight. Be aware of surroundings and report any security concerns to Supt. Walter Esch at 734-368-7874 or phone 911 for the Washtenaw County Sheriff.

CITIZENS POLICE ACADEMY The Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office is offering their 2015 Citizens Police Academy on Wednesday evenings from January 14-March 18. The Citizens Police Academy is designed to provide a behind the scenes, in-depth look into the everyday happenings of the Washtenaw County Sheriff's Office. Information is available at http://www.ewashtenaw.org/ government/sheriff/community/citizens-police-academy.

Happy Thanksgiving! 

November 2014  VOL. LX  No. 12

ELECTION RESULTS Following are the unofficial election results provided by Washtenaw County for the November 4, 2014 Barton Hills Village election. The election will be certified by the Washtenaw County Board of Canvassers in about a week.

Total registered voters: 291 Ballots cast: 181 Voter turnout: 62.20%

Trustees The top four candidates are elected for four-year terms.
Will Boddie: 115 votes (21.46%)
Linda R. Benson: 109 votes (20.34%)
George E. Borel: 108 votes (20.15%)
Cheryl MacKrell: 105 votes (19.59%)
Monica Ponce de Leon: 99 votes (18.47%)

Proposals Both proposals passed so the BHV Charter is amended accordingly.
1) Charter amendment to change budget dates Yes: 170 (98.27%) No: 3 (1.73%)
2) Charter amendment to change taxes due date Yes: 171 (98.84%) No: 2 (1.16%)

This is the first year that the BHV election was conducted by Ann Arbor Township (in accordance with changes in state election law). The voter turnout sets a new record, surpassing the previous record participation of 126 voters (44%) in 1999.

HALLOWEEN About 50 children and adults enjoyed the Halloween evening pizza party at the Village Hall before the children boarded Dollie the Trolley for the Trick or Treating ride. Ann Arbor Township Fire Department members were on hand in the parking lot with the big fire truck and candy to give the Trolley riders an exciting send-off as they followed Supt. Esch in the BHV patrol car through the community. Many thanks to all who helped to provide the successful Halloween event.

FALL CLEAN UP Residents are reminded that the BHV staff will vacuum up leaves for homeowners who rake their own. Lawn service providers are expected to haul away whatever debris they gather. Please do not bag leaves for pick up, and separate out sticks and brush that clog up the leaf vacuum. Consider mulching (mulched leaves provide nutrients for lawns) and removing leaves from catch basins to keep decaying leaves (that rob fish of vital oxygen) out of the waterways.

SEPTIC MAINTENANCE Another chore that can still be done before the snow flies is septic tank pumping. BHV Ordinance No. 21 requires pumping at least every four years, and more often if the system needs it. Contact Deputy Clerk Jan Esch when a septic pumping appointment is made so BHV staff can come at the same time to fill out necessary paperwork.

DIRECTORY UPDATE Contact Clerk for information

AMERICA RECYCLES DAY Recycle Ann Arbor is celebrating “America Recycles Day” on Saturday November 15, 2014 from 10 AM – 2 PM at the ReUse Center, 2420 S. Industrial Hwy, Ann Arbor 48104. The event, part of a national movement started by Keep America Beautiful, is held annually to promote recycling practices. Activities at the ReUse Center include giveaways, a guessing game with prize raffle and lots of information about local recycling and reuse efforts. The ReUse center accepts items for resale at their 20,000 square foot store, including building materials and household items/furniture. For more information, including a list of items accepted/for sale visit www.recycleannarbor.org.

SCAM ALERT Local law enforcement authorities and the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) warn against an email scam where cyber criminals attempt to defraud computer users by impersonating IC3 employees. Victims receive emails that state a criminal report was filed on the victim’s name and Social Security number and legal papers are pending. Threats of legal action including arrest warrants are used to create an urgency to contact the scammers. Victims believe they are speaking to IC3 representatives and follow instructions to pay (with prepaid money cards) for additional information. The IC3 will never charge for filing a complaint and will never threaten arrest for lack of response to their emails. Be absolutely sure of any contact or agency before providing personal information or money. The IC3 is a multi-agency task force of the United States government.

October 2014  VOL. LX  No. 11

HALLOWEEN There is still time to sign up for the BHV Halloween event being held on Friday, October 31. The evening begins at 5:30 PM with pizza at the Village Hall, after which the children will board Dollie the Trolley for the two hour trick-or-treat ride through the Village. To join the fun, please contact Jody at [email protected] or 734-834-2420 with the names/ages of the children riding the Trolley. Residents are also invited to come down to the Village Hall from 5:30-6:00 PM to admire the costumes and share in the pizza before the Trolley departs.

AUDIT The Barton Hills Village annual audit for fiscal year ending March 31, 2014 is now available for public inspection at the Clerk’s Office.

IN SYMPATHY Contact the Clerk’s Office for information.

SOLICITATION In response to recent reports of people soliciting funds and selling items door to door, BHV residents are reminded that while the Village cannot legally prohibit this activity, a permit is required under an Ann Arbor Township ordinance that applies in BHV. Besides simply not answering the door, residents can ask solicitors for their permit and ID and/or ask them to leave private property. If they refuse, the resident may call the Washtenaw County Sheriff at 734-994-2911 (if solicitor behavior is threatening in any way, call 911).

BARTON HILLS VILLAGE ELECTION

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

Voting location: Ann Arbor Township Fire Station 1 (Precinct 1)
3792 Pontiac Trail, Ann Arbor MI 48105

Polls open 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Voters will be asked for photo identification.
For information contact Ann Arbor Township at 734-663-3418 or www.aatwp.org
A sample ballot is available online at www.michigan.gov/vote

Write-in candidates must file a Declaration of Intent form at the Ann Arbor Township office no
later than 4:00 PM on Friday, October 24, 2014.
Along with state and local races/proposals, the ballot will include the Barton Hills Village
Trustees race and two proposals to amend the Barton Hills Village Charter.

Candidates for the Board of Trustees (5 candidates running for 4 seats)
The following information has been provided by the candidates.

Linda R. Benson (incumbent)
I am Linda Benson, and I am finishing my first term on the Village board, serving as chair of the Recreation Committee. Providing social opportunities including the annual bar-b-q picnics, good-bye parties for retiring employees, and the socials at Barton Hills Country Club has been a pleasurable experience for me during the past four years and an opportunity to know many newer residents in the Village as well.
However, it has had its challenges, especially when Walter Esch announced that he could no longer continue driving the Halloween hay wagon for the youngest residents in our Village. Those were big shoes to fill, and safety for our kids was a major concern. Two years ago, the Recreation Committee began a very successful arrangement using Dollie the Trolley, part of Tecumseh Trolley, a professionally operated transportation service with insured drivers.  This arrangement provides our kids with a fun experience on an enclosed, old-fashioned trolley and a safe opportunity to get around the neighborhood. 
I wish to continue to serve on the board because I see future issues that need to be addressed. We are still struggling with the expanding deer population and we must recognize that new construction proposals on the outskirts of the village threaten to put strains on our area.  After 34 years of residence, I am still amazed at the natural beauty of our Village, whatever season of the year. I wish to continue the challenge of finding solutions to maintain the quality of life in this area.   
Will Boddie (incumbent)
Will Boddie has lived in Barton Hills Village since 1989. He is a retired vice president of Ford Motor Company and has served as a Village trustee since 2001. He was treasurer between 2002 and 2010, and has been president since 2009. He believes in maintaining the character of the Village, proper maintenance of the roads, water system and Village buildings and conservative management of the Village’s finances.

George E. Borel (incumbent)
I have been a resident of Barton Hills since 2002 and have lived in the Ann Arbor area since 1973. I have been engaged in the practice of public accounting for over 40 years. I retired from Deloitte at the end of 2012 and am currently a principal in the Rehmann accounting firm.  I have served on the Village Board since 2009 and am currently the Treasurer of the Village.

Cheryl MacKrell (incumbent)
Cheryl MacKrell has lived in Barton Hills Village with her husband John for 27 years. She taught French and English as a Second Language at Pioneer High School for 23 years. She has served as a Trustee for 18 years, chairing the Security and Long Range Planning Committees. She is currently the Village Clerk. In addition to establishing recycling in BHV in the late 1980’s, Mrs. MacKrell was involved in keeping the Barton Drive/M-14 ramp open and is still actively working with the Michigan Department of Transportation on further safety improvements in that area. More recently she worked to keep Argo Dam in place, and is currently the Village’s representative to the Huron River Watershed Council. She represents the Trustees on the Planning Commission, thus has participated in the updating of the Master Plan and the Zoning Ordinance. Right now she is working with Northfield Township residents to relocate the Biltmore development proposed for 440 acres along Whitmore Lake Road between Joy and Northfield Church Roads to a more appropriate area. Mrs. MacKrell values the preservation of natural features and the ambiance of Barton Hills Village, which has been prominently singled out as a part of Ann Arbor that makes it one of the ten best places in the U.S. to live.

Monica Ponce de Leon
Monica Ponce de Leon lives at 715 Spring Valley Road with her husband Gregory Saldana and their two children Beatriz and Simon. She is an architect and current Dean of the Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning at the University of Michigan. As a business owner and dean, Monica will bring over 23 years of professional experience to the Village Board of Trustees. This includes responsibility for complex operating budgets, managing public and private clientele, and her commitment to higher education. Monica shares our common concerns for the quality of life in Barton Hills Village and will bring the leadership needed to preserve it for years to come.

Charter Amendment Proposals

Two amendments are proposed to bring the BHV Charter up to date with current state r
requirements.

Proposal 1Shall sections 7.2 and 7.4 of the Barton Hills Village charter be amended to provide that the Village President shall submit the fiscal year budget proposal to the Board of Trustees at the first regular meeting in January and that the budget shall be adopted in March of each year? Yes ☐ No ☐

Charter language as it would be amended:
Section 7.2. Budget Procedure. The President of the Village shall prepare a complete program for Village operations and a complete itemized budget proposal for each fiscal year. Such budget shall be submitted to the

Village Board of Trustees at its first regular meeting in March January of each year. The budget document shall present a complete financial plan for the ensuing fiscal year. It shall include at least the following information:
(a) Detailed estimates of all proposed expenditures for each department and office of the Village showing the expenditures for corresponding items for the current and last preceding fiscal year, including contingent, miscellaneous or other similar fund expenditures, with reasons for increases and decreases recommended, as compared with appropriations for the preceding year.
(b) Statements of the bonded and other indebtedness of the Village showing the debt redemption and interest requirement, the debt authorized and unissued, and the condition of the sinking funds, if any.
(c) Detailed estimates of all anticipated income of the Village from sources other than taxes and borrowing, with a comparative statement of the amounts received by the Village from each of the same or similar sources for the last preceding and current fiscal year.
(d) A statement of the estimated balance or deficit, as the case may be, for the end of the current fiscal year.
(e) An estimate of the amount of money to be raised from current and delinquent taxes and the amount to be raised from bond issues which, together with income from other sources, will be necessary to meet the proposed expenditures and commitments of the Village during the ensuing fiscal year.
(f) Such other supporting schedules as the Board may deem necessary.

Section 7.4. Adoption of Budget. In May March of each year, the Board of Trustees shall, by resolution, adopt the budget for the current fiscal year and shall, in such resolution, make an appropriation of the money needed for Village purposes during the current fiscal year and shall provide for a tax levy in the amount necessary to be raised by taxes upon real and personal property in the Village for Village purposes, which levy shall not exceed two (2%) percent of the assessed value of all real and personal property subject to taxation in the Village, which levy the said Board of Trustees is hereby authorized to make in accordance with law. The Board of Trustees shall have the power to revise the proposed budget prior to adoption of the final Village budget before or after the public hearing on the budget, in such manner as it shall deem appropriate. The budget as adopted shall be available for inspection by the public at the Office of the Village Clerk.

Proposal 2 Shall section 8.8 of the Barton Hills Village charter be amended to provide that village taxes may be paid without penalty or interest if paid by September 14 of each year? Yes ☐ No ☐

Charter language as it would be amended:
Section 8.8. Collection of Village Taxes. Village taxes shall be due and payable on the first day of July of each year and may be paid at the Office of the Village Treasurer during regular business hours until and including August 31 September 14. To all taxes paid after August 31 September 14, there shall be added a four (4%) percent penalty, and to all taxes paid after August 31 September 14, there shall also be added interest at the rate of one-half (1/2) of one (1%) percent for each month or fraction of a month intervening between August 31 September 14 and the date of payment. The added penalties and interest herein provided shall belong to the Village and shall constitute a charge and shall be a lien against the property to which the taxes themselves apply, collectible in the same manner as the taxes to which they are added.

September 2014  VOL. LX  No. 10

ELECTIONS The election of candidates to the BHV Board of Trustees will take place at the general election being held on November 4, 2014. BHV residents vote at the Ann Arbor Township Hall located at 3792 Pontiac Trail. The ballot will include state offices and proposals as well as the Village Trustees race and 2 proposed amendments to the BHV charter. More specific information will be printed in future Barton Bulletins.

The last day to register to vote in the November general election is Monday October 6, 2014.

FALL PICNIC The BHV Fall Picnic on Sunday September 7, 2014 was well attended, with 82 residents/guests and one dog enjoying the beautiful fall afternoon. Many thanks to the Recreation Committee and the BHV Staff for their efforts in setting up/cooking/cleaning up. If you are missing a white bowl that had a green salad in it at the picnic, please contact Jan Esch at the Village Hall to claim it.

HALLOWEEN Please see the attached flyer regarding the BHV Halloween Event to be held on Friday October 31, 2014.

DIRECTORY UPDATE Please contact clerk for information.

SECURITY REMINDER There have been a number of incidents recently involving entry into unlocked cars, both in BHV and in the surrounding townships. Residents are urged to keep their vehicles and garages locked and valuables out of sight. Please call Supt. Walter Esch at 368-7874 to report any security issues.

There have also been reports of phone scams involving jury duty fines and other official-sounding representatives (IRS, police, etc). Government notices will never come via phone and will not include requests to send money via prepaid cards or other immediate methods. Remember not to give out personal information unless you are absolutely sure the transaction is legitimate and safe.

To receive regular security notices/information on line, go to www.nixle.com. BHV subscribes to Nixle and will forward urgent messages via the BHV notification list.

A Family Preparedness Guide is available from www.michigan.gov/beprepared which includes information on how to create an emergency plan and other helpful resources.

RECYCLING Here’s a summary of recycling options.

Green bin recycling. The large green bin is located at the far end of the maintenance area on Barton Shore Drive. You can bring items to be recycled any time. The green bin has one side for items like aluminum/steel cans, glass jars, plastics #1, 4, 5, 6, & 7 (no 3) and empty aerosol cans. It also has a side for paper, like newspapers, junk mail, catalogs, box board (like cereal boxes) and telephone books. BHV pays to have the green bin emptied.

#2 plastics recycling. #2 plastics like milk jugs and detergent bottles go in the wire bins next to the green bin. BHV bales these items separately.

Corrugated cardboard. BHV also bales corrugated cardboard. Even though the sign on the green bin says you can, please don’t put corrugated cardboard boxes in the green bin. Leave them along the side of the salt shed next to the recycling area where the BHV staff can take care of them.

Household hazardous waste. Items like CFL light bulbs, cleaning supplies, paint, weed killer and not-empty aerosol cans can be left in your blue HHW bin next to your regular trash. The BHV staff will pick up the items on trash collection days (first, third and fifth Mondays of the month). Contact Jan Esch at the Village Hall if you haven’t yet received your free blue HHW recycling bin.

Prescription drugs. Go to www.dontflushdrugs.com for a list of local pharmacies that recycle prescription drugs. Do not put these drugs in your BHV HHW blue bin.

Unusual items. For other items that you’re not sure what to do with, you can contact BHV (Walter Esch cell 368-7874, Village Hall phone 222-5209 or email ), check the Recycle Ann Arbor A to Z Recycling Guide online at www.recycleannarbor.org or check http://recycle.ewashtenaw.org (Washtenaw County).

FALL PICNIC The BHV Fall Picnic will be held on Sunday afternoon September 7, 2014 beginning at 5:00 PM. Bring a side dish or dessert to share. Hot dog, brats, burgers, buns, condiments, lemonade, dishes and utensils will be provided. Also bring lawn chairs, blankets, games, etc. and plan to have a fun time with your BHV neighbors. Please RSVP to Jan Esch by September 3.

PLANNING COMMISSION The regular meeting of the BHV Planning Commission scheduled for Tuesday August 26, 2014 was cancelled due to lack of agenda items. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Tuesday November 18, 2014 at 6:30 at the Village Hall.

TRASH COLLECTION Due to the Labor Day holiday, regular trash collection will take place on Tuesday September 2, 2014. The collection dates will return to the normal schedule of first, third and fifth Mondays of the month on September 15.

HHW RECYCLING BINS If you weren’t able to attend last weekend’s distribution you can come to the Village Hall and pick up your free Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Recycling Bin during regular office hours (Monday-Thursday 8:30-11:30 AM). The bins will also be available at the September 7 picnic, or you can contact Jan Esch and arrange a pick up time that is best for you.

Along with the bin you will receive a list of the items that can be put in the bin—things like paint, cleaning products, lawn care products, old cell phones, batteries and light bulbs. Put the bin next to your regular trash cans and the BHV maintenance crew will take any HHW left in the bin on normal trash pick up days. Please note that the bin is only for HHW—the staff will not pick up regular recycling items like newspapers and tin cans. You must still bring these items down to the big green recycling unit at the maintenance yard.

The HHW recycling bin project was funded by a grant from the Washtenaw County Offices of Water Resources and Public Works, who partner with area municipalities to promote environmental awareness and protection of water resources. Information about the Washtenaw County RiverSafe Home program and prescription drug recycling are also included with the HHW bin distribution.

Have a safe and happy Labor Day!

August 2014  VOL. LX  No. 8

PRIMARY ELECTION State, local and judicial offices and a proposal will be on the ballot at the primary election to be held on Tuesday, August 5, 2014. BHV residents vote at the Ann Arbor Township Hall, 3792 Pontic Trail. Polls are open from 7 AM to 8 PM. Please remember that Pontiac Trail in under construction between Barton Drive and DhuVarren Road so the easiest route to the Township Hall is via Whitmore Lake Road to Warren Road to Pontiac Trail. Voters must choose to vote either the Democratic or the Republican ballot. To view a sample ballot, go to www.michigan.gov/elections and choose “Michigan Voter Information.”

Barton Hills Village candidates for the Board of Trustees will be on the November 4, 2014 ballot along with proposed changes to the BHV charter.

SECURITY NOTICE In the past few days three reports have been received of someone entering unlocked cars in driveways. Small items/loose change were taken; the cars were not damaged. Please remember to lock auto, garage and home doors and take reasonable precautions to protect your property. If you have an incident to report, call Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Department at 734-994-2911 (non-emergency) or call 911 (emergency). Please also call Walter Esch at 734-368-7894 or the Village Hall at 734-222-5209 so incidents can be recorded and notice to residents sent out if needed.

FALL PICNIC The BHV Fall Picnic will be held on Sunday afternoon September 7. Invitations will be distributed later this week.

FOSTER BRIDGE CLOSURE Foster Bridge will be temporarily closed on Tuesday August 12, 2014 between 8 AM and 4 PM by the Washtenaw County Road Commission for inspection. The closure may be rescheduled due to weather conditions. East Delhi Bridge will also be closed at the same time for inspection. Call 734-327-6647 for more information.

VILLAGE HALL No Parking signs have been posted for the Village Hall and Maintenance Area lots to discourage non-residents seeking a short cut to Barton Park/Barton Dam. Also, power outages cause the Village Hall answering machine message to be deleted and the most recent storm took out the phone line completely resulting in a ringing phone that no one answered. If you call 734-222-5209 and don’t get the expected message in Jan’s voice, please contact her at home 734-665-5574 or cell 734-368-7894.

NEW ORDINANCE Ordinance No. 47 amending Ordinance No. 37 (Illicit Discharge Elimination Program) was adopted on July 14, 2014. The text of the ordinance follows.

ORDINANCE NO. 47
Barton Hills Village Ordains that Barton Hills Village Ordinance Number 37 is amended to read as follows:

ILLICIT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION PROGRAM
[An Ordinance to prohibit illicit discharge]
Barton Hills Village Ordains:

Section 1.No person shall directly or indirectly discharge any substance other than storm water into Village watercourses, including, but not limited to, any pollutants, illicit discharges, illicit connections and the direct dumping or disposal of materials. Indirect discharges include, but are not limited to, discharges into streets, walkways and sidewalks.

Section 2.The following discharges are exempt from the restrictions of Section 1 unless they are determined to be a significant source of pollution to the Village stormwater system or waters of the State.
a. A discharge or flow resulting from fire fighting activities;
b. Agricultural stormwater runoff;
c. A discharge or flow from lawn watering, or landscape irrigation;
d. A discharge or flow from a diverted stream flow or natural spring;
e. A discharge or flow from uncontaminated pumped groundwater or rising groundwater;
f. Uncontaminated discharge or flow from a foundation drain, crawl space pump, or footing drain;
g. A discharge or flow from air conditioning condensation;
h. Drainage from a private residential swimming pool containing no harmful quantities of chlorine or other chemicals.
i. A discharge from water line flushing or potable water sources.
j. Waters from noncommercial car washing.

Section 3. The Village Superintendent shall enforce this ordinance and shall have enforcement powers including but not limited to:

a. Investigate suspected illicit discharges;

b. Monitor discharges into Village watercourses:

c. Coordinate with other agencies including Ann Arbor Township, Washtenaw County and the Washtenaw County Sheriff to contain illicit discharges;

d. Initiate ordinance prosecutions through the Village Attorney.

Section 4.Violations of this ordinance shall be civil infractions punishable by a civil fine of up to $500. Each day of violations shall be a separate offense.

ELECTION NEWS Election Day is Tuesday, November 4, 2014. Along with state and local offices, BHV voters will be electing four Trustees to the BHV Board and deciding two charter amendment questions. Here are things you need to know:

--The Primary Election is August 5, 2014. Last day to register to vote in this primary is July 7, 2014. There are no specifically-BHV-issues on the primary ballot but there are other important contests that apply to BHV residents.

--Last day to register to vote in the November 4, 2014 General Election is October 6, 2014.

--Nominating petitions to run for BHV Trustee are available now and must be turned in to the Ann Arbor Township office no later than 4:00 PM on Tuesday, July 22, 2014. This is a real deadline, so it’s highly recommended that petitions be turned in a few days before this date. You can get petitions from the BHV Clerk’s Office or Ann Arbor Township.

--BHV candidates for Trustee must gather at least 20 but not more than 30 signatures of registered BHV voters on the petitions. The term of office for Trustee is four years.

More information is available from the BHV Clerk’s Office or the Ann Arbor Township Clerk’s Office (734-663-3418; [email protected]). Voter registration can also be completed at any Michigan Secretary of State office.

DOOR TO DOOR Young people from the Michigan Conference of Seventh-day Adventists will be doing door to door missionary work during June, July and August of 2014. BHV has been properly notified of this activity. BHV residents have no obligation to respond to these folks who will be offering information about their religious organization.

SAVE THE DATE The BHV Fall Picnic will be held on Sunday afternoon September 7. Invitations will be distributed in the near future.

ORDINANCE AMENDMENT Amendment of Ordinance No. 37 (Illicit Discharge Elimination Program) is proposed by the Board of Trustees. The text of the ordinance with proposed changes is printed below. Residents may comment on the ordinance:
--by attending to speak in person at the July 14, 2014 Board of Trustees meeting which begins
at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall, and/or
--by contacting any Trustee, and/or
--by sending written comments to the Trustees in care of the Clerk’s Office by mail (199 Barton
Shore Drive, Ann Arbor MI 48105), fax (734-222-9177) or email ([email protected]).

PROPOSED ORDINANCE NO. 47
Barton Hills Village Ordains that Barton Hills Village Ordinance Number 37 is amended to read as follows:

ILLICIT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION PREVENTION PROGRAM
[An Ordinance to prohibit illicit discharge]
Barton Hills Village Ordains:

Section 1.No person shall directly or indirectly discharge any substance other than storm water into Village watercourses, including, but not limited to, any pollutants, illicit discharges, illicit connections and the direct dumping or disposal of materials. Indirect discharges include, but are not limited to, discharges into streets, walkways and sidewalks.

Section 2.The following discharges are exempt from the restrictions of Section 1 unless they are determined to be a significant source of pollution to the Village stormwater system or waters of the State.
a. A discharge or flow resulting from fire fighting activities;
b. Agricultural stormwater runoff;
c. A discharge or flow from lawn watering, or landscape irrigation;
d. A discharge or flow from a diverted stream flow or natural spring;
e. A discharge or flow from uncontaminated pumped groundwater or rising groundwater;
f. Uncontaminated discharge or flow from a foundation drain, crawl space pump, or footing drain;
g. A discharge or flow from air conditioning condensation;
h. Drainage from a private residential swimming pool containing no harmful quantities of chlorine or other chemicals.
i. A discharge from water line flushing or potable water sources.
j. Waters from noncommercial car washing.

Section 3. The Village Superintendent shall enforce this ordinance and shall have enforcement powers including but not limited to:

a. Investigate suspected illicit discharges;

b. Monitor discharges into Village watercourses:

c. Coordinate with other agencies including Ann Arbor Township, Washtenaw County and the Washtenaw County Sheriff to contain illicit discharges;

d. Initiate ordinance prosecutions through the Village Attorney.

Section 3.4 Violations of this ordinance shall be civil infractions punishable by a civil fine of up to $500. Each day of violations shall be a separate offense.

Have a safe and happy Independence Day holiday!

May 2014  VOL. LX  No. 6

STAFF VACATIONS Notice will be posted on the door of the Village Hall when there are variations in office hours due to staff vacations. Contact information is also kept up to date on the Village Hall phone message available any time at 734-222-5209.

ESCH FOOD DRIVE The David Esch family extends their deepest thanks to all who participated in their recent Scouting For Food drive in honor of their son Tim, an Eagle Scout who died in an auto accident at age 18 in 2005. There were at least a couple of donors who left items but didn’t sign the book, and the Eschs want to thank them. Total food/cash donations were sent to Food Gatherers and will provide over 15,000 meals in Washtenaw County.

RECYCLING REMINDERS

--Please remember to rinse out containers and remove lids before putting them in the green recycling bin to prevent odors and insect attraction. Do not put items in plastic bags in the bin.

--Please do not put corrugated cardboard in the green bin. Instead of paying to have cardboard hauled away, BHV bales it for direct sale. Put cardboard by the building next to the salt shed where the BHV staff will take care of it.

CLEAN UP DAY The Washtenaw County Solid Waste Division and community partners are sponsoring an Environmental Clean-Up Day for Washtenaw County residents on Saturday, June 14, 2014, 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. at Northfield Township Hall, 8350 Main Street, Whitmore Lake. The event provides an opportunity for residents to dispose of many unwanted household items in a safe and sustainable manner. Items that can be brought include traditional recyclable materials (plastics, glass, aluminum, cardboard, paper), scrap metal, household hazardous wastes, furniture, yard waste, electronic equipment/small appliances and sharps (diabetic needles, etc.). Residents may bring up to four tires for free; a $5 donation is suggested for each additional tire. Residents can also bring one television, Freon-containing appliance or computer, with a $10 suggested donation for each additional item. The event is free, but there is a suggested $10 donation per car to help decrease disposal costs and to help maintain this community collection. Residential use only – please, no businesses. For more information, visit http://recycle.ewashtenaw.org or phone Washtenaw County Solid Waste at 734-222-3827.

DON’T FLUSH DRUGS Increasing amounts of prescription drugs and personal care products are being detected in waterways and drinking water supplies. To reduce the risk to people and the environment, please do not dispose of these items down the sink or toilet. Washtenaw County website www.dontflushdrugs.com includes a list of area participating pharmacies that will accept drugs for disposal as well as other helpful information for the safe handling and disposal of pharmaceuticals (also phone Washtenaw County Solid Waste at 734-222-3827 or BHV Clerk’s Office at 734-222-5209 for this information).

CLICK IT OR TICKET Click it or Ticket is an ongoing National Campaign to get drivers and passengers to buckle their seatbelts when driving. Michigan Law requires all drivers and passengers 15 years and younger in any seat position to be buckled. Children less than 8 years old or less than 4 feet 9 inches tall must be in a child car seat or booster seat . From May 19 through June 1 you will see high visibility check points throughout the state and tickets will be written. In 2010 seatbelts saved an estimated 12,546 lives nationally. Don't become a statistic. For more information visit www.safercar.gov. For a copy of the child car seat basics brochure, contact the BHV Clerk’s Office.

LAWN AND GARDEN CARE (contact the BHV Clerk’s office for more details)

--Michigan law requires use of phosphorus free lawn fertilizer except in specific cases so look for fertilizers with a middle number of 0 (first number is nitrogen, second is phosphorus, third is potassium). Excess phosphorus in the waterways contributes to excessive aquatic plant grown, nuisance algal blooms and decreased oxygen levels.

--For healthy lawns, mow high to promote root growth (3” is recommended). Water sparingly, as overwatering promotes plant damage, fungal growth and nutrient leaching (sprinklers should not be on in the rain!) Automatic sprinklers need a moisture detection element. Also consider deep-rooted native plants, more shrubs/flowers instead of grass, rain barrels and rain gardens.

--Check out natural insect control products. Washtenaw Conservation District offers a liquid that can be applied to plants/shrubs to provide an effective barrier against mosquitos, ticks, fleas, gnats and black flies while being safe for people and pets. Phone 734-761-6721 or visit www.washtenawcd.org/ps/other.php.

BICYCLE MAPS A variety of bicycle trail maps are now available for purchase on line at www.michigan.gov/mdot. Select roads and travel, then bicycling.

PHOTO REQUEST Ann Arbor Township is looking for high quality digital photos for their website; in particular sites and scenes unique to the area. Contact Clerk Rena Basch at for more information .

LOOKING AHEAD Barton Hills Country Club will be holding their annual member celebration of Independence Day with fireworks on Friday, June 27, 2014. Families with dogs and young children who might be upset by the noise should make appropriate arrangements. Residents are also advised to use extreme caution when setting off any legal fireworks, taking great care to prevent fires, injury or damage as well as being considerate of sleeping neighbors.

May 2014  VOL. LX  No. 5

ANNUAL MEETINGS All BHV residents are encouraged to attend the annual meetings:

The Barton Hills Village Annual Meeting will be held on Monday, May 12, 2014 beginning at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall. Regular business will be conducted by the Board of Trustees in addition to acceptance of annual committee reports (contact the Clerk’s Office for annual financial and committee reports). The Board will receive comment from the residents on any issues of concern. A public comment period is also on the agenda for all Board of Trustees meetings, which are held the second Monday of each month at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall.

The Barton Hills Maintenance Corporation Annual Stockholders’ Meeting will also be held on Monday, May 12, 2014 immediately following the BHV Annual Meeting. Shareholders and the BHMC Board of Directors will discuss important financial and other matters, including the approval process for the annual budget on which the annual assessments are based.

NEW EMPLOYEE Contact the Clerk’s Office for details

GARLIC MUSTARD This invasive herb thrives in the low light of the forest floor and aggressively competes with native plants. It grows in a two-year cycle, starting with rosettes close to the ground that appear as soon as the temperatures rise above freezing. The second year tall stalks have triangular, sharp-tooth-edged leaves topped with clusters of small white flowers. Early spring is the optimum time to deal with garlic mustard since it begins to grow before most other plants. Pulling by hand is the simplest and most effective control method followed by mowing and herbicide application. Containment rather than total removal is usually the most realistic goal and persistence over a number of years is necessary. For more information contact the BHV Clerk’s Office or one of the many online sites such as www.ipm.msu.edu/invasive_species/garlic_mustard or www.ipaw.org/invaders/garlic_mustard.

REMINDERS

--Please separate sticks/brush (which are chipped) from grass clippings when leaving debris for BHV maintenance staff to pick up. If a landscape service is hired for yard work they are also expected to haul away debris.

--After making an appointment to have your septic system pumped, please contact the BHV Clerk’s Office so a BHV staff member can be on hand at the same time to fill out the necessary paperwork.

PLANNING COMMISSION A Special Meeting of the Barton Hills Village Planning Commission, including a Public Hearing, will be held on Tuesday, April 29, 2014 at 6:30 PM at the Village Hall. Approval of minutes and revision of the zoning ordinance will be the subject of the meeting/hearing, including the map attached to the proposed new ordinance. Text of the proposed zoning ordinance and the map are published on the website (vil-bartonhills.org) under the Ordinances tab and are also available from the Clerk’s office.

SPRING IS HERE (Really!) The official BHV source reports that the last of the ice on Barton Pond melted on April 9. This is a new record, surpassing the previous last-melt date of April 7, 1964, which is also the date the annual recording began.

The unwelcome white stuff earlier this week is now a fading memory, and spring projects will be underway soon. Please note:

--Sticks and brush can be piled near the driveway or road for pick up by BHV staff. Please separate sticks from other compostable material (do not bag). This service is provided for residents who do their own work—lawn services are expected to haul away such materials.

--Pet waste and other non-compostable trash can be bagged and put in the regular trash.

--Household hazardous waste such as leftover fertilizer or insecticide can be left next to the regular trash for special pick up by BHV staff.

--Keep water conservation in mind when starting up the sprinklers. Systems with moisture sensors save energy and money while providing just the right amount of water.

--Soil testing can help reduce pollution of surface and ground water due to over-application of phosphorus or nitrogen fertilizers. Easy to do soil testing kits are available for $25 from Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) online (www.bookstore.msue.msu.edu) or from the Washtenaw County MSUE office at 705 N. Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor (phone 734-997-1678 for details). After mailing the soil sample in the post-paid envelope, a detailed site-specific report and recommendations are returned. For more information go online to http://msue.anr.msu.edu/uploads/files/AABI/ Soil_Test.pdf or http://msue.anr.msu.edu/resources/soil_test_kit_self-mailer.

--Rain gardens keep pollutants out of streams and ditches (that lead to Barton Pond) by capturing stormwater runoff from roofs and driveways. One inch of rainfall diverted through a typical rain garden means 600 gallons of water filtered back to the groundwater, plus a beautiful, lush garden to enjoy. For more information including design ideas and plant lists, go online to www.ewashtenaw.org/raingardens, or contact Washtenaw County Water Resources Rain Garden Consultant Susan Bryan at 734-730-9025.

BHV PROJECT PERMITS Zoning/architectural/soil erosion permits are required for virtually any outdoor project in Barton Hills Village. This includes wall/fences of all kinds, structures such as gazebos, pergolas and potting sheds, and landscape features. BHV officials and staff work hard to keep the approval process as efficient and low cost as possible. Contact Deputy Clerk Jan Esch (734-222-5209; ) for applications/information.

MOSQUITO CONTROL The heading on flyers recently distributed by Eradico Mosquito Service seems to indicate a village-wide insect control program. However, this is a private company solicitation that is not sponsored or endorsed by Barton Hills Village.

SEPTIC SYSTEM MAINTENANCE BHV Ordinance No. 21 requires septic tank pumping at least every 4 years. Please contact Jan Esch (734-222-5209; ) after making an appointment for septic pumping so a BHV employee can be on hand at the same time to complete the necessary paperwork.

NOISE ORDINANCE While enjoying the pleasant weather please be considerate of the neighbors and adhere to the requirements of BHV Noise Ordinance No. 5 which prohibits activities during certain hours if a clearly audible sound can be heard beyond property lines, such as:

--power tools, leaf blowers, lawn mowers and other power equipment between 6 PM-8 AM

--construction activities/equipment between 6 PM-8 AM Mon-Fri and any weekend/holiday

--bug zappers, radios, TV, music and musical instruments between 10 PM-8 AM

Also think about generator testing hours, barking dogs and other things that may be an intrusion on neighborhood peace.

DRUG DISPOSAL On Saturday April 26, 2014 from 10 AM to 2 PM the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office Service Center at 2201 Hogback Road, Ann Arbor 48105 will be accepting pills and patches for proper disposal. No liquids, needles or sharps can be accepted. The service is free and anonymous; no questions asked. Proper disposal keeps harmful drugs out of landfills, waterways and ecosystems.

COMING SOON The Barton Hills Village and Barton Hills Maintenance Corporation Annual Meetings will be held on Monday, May 12, 2014 beginning at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall. Annual reports will be distributed in advance and residents are encouraged to attend.

PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENTS The Barton Hills Village Board of Trustees adopted a resolution at its March 10, 2014 meeting proposing that the BHV Charter be amended to make three changes regarding financial details.

1) The Trustees propose to amend the charter so that the annual Village budget is adopted at the March meeting rather than the May meeting each year. This is necessary because the State of Michigan now requires the new budget to be in place before the end of the fiscal year, which for BHV is March 31.

2) Since the budget adoption date is moved back, the initial introduction of the proposed budget must be moved back from March to January.

3) The Trustees also propose to move the date that BHV annual property tax payments are due from August 31 to September 14. This is the same date that Ann Arbor Township taxes are due so it would reduce confusion by making both tax due dates the same.

Following is the text of the Trustees’ resolution, stating the complete language of the charter sections and the changes proposed. The resolution has been submitted to Governor Snyder. If the Governor approves, the proposed changes will be put to a vote of the residents at the November 4, 2014 election. The questions as they will appear on the ballot are included in the text below.

Pursuant to the Home Rule Village Act, the Board of Trustees proposes to amend charter sections 7.2, 7.4 and 8.8 to read as follows:

Section 7.2. Budget Procedure. The President of the Village shall prepare a complete program for Village operations and a complete itemized budget proposal for each fiscal year. Such budget shall be submitted to the Village Board of Trustees at its first regular meeting in March January of each year. The budget document shall present a complete financial plan for the ensuing fiscal year. It shall include at least the following information:

(a) Detailed estimates of all proposed expenditures for each department and office of the Village showing the expenditures for corresponding items for the current and last preceding fiscal year, including contingent, miscellaneous or other similar fund expenditures, with reasons for increases and decreases recommended, as compared with appropriations for the preceding year.

(b) Statements of the bonded and other indebtedness of the Village showing the debt redemption and interest requirement, the debt authorized and unissued, and the condition of the sinking funds, if any.

(c) Detailed estimates of all anticipated income of the Village from sources other than taxes and borrowing, with a comparative statement of the amounts received by the Village from each of the same or similar sources for the last preceding and current fiscal year.

(d) A statement of the estimated balance or deficit, as the case may be, for the end of the current fiscal year.

(e) An estimate of the amount of money to be raised from current and delinquent taxes and the amount to be raised from bond issues which, together with income from other sources, will be necessary to meet the proposed expenditures and commitments of the Village during the ensuing fiscal year.

(f) Such other supporting schedules as the Board may deem necessary.

Section 7.4. Adoption of Budget. In May March of each year, the Board of Trustees shall, by resolution, adopt the budget for the current fiscal year and shall, in such resolution, make an appropriation of the money needed for Village purposes during the current fiscal year and shall provide for a tax levy in the amount necessary to be raised by taxes upon real and personal property in the Village for Village purposes, which levy shall not exceed two (2%) percent of the assessed value of all real and personal property subject to taxation in the Village, which levy the said Board of Trustees is hereby authorized to make in accordance with law. The Board of Trustees shall have the power to revise the proposed budget prior to adoption of the final Village budget before or after the public hearing on the budget, in such manner as it shall deem appropriate. The budget as adopted shall be available for inspection by the public at the Office of the Village Clerk.

Section 8.8. Collection of Village Taxes. Village taxes shall be due and payable on the first day of July of each year and may be paid at the Office of the Village Treasurer during regular business hours until and including August 31 September 14. To all taxes paid after August 31 September 14, there shall be added a four (4%) percent penalty, and to all taxes paid after August 31 September 14, there shall also be added interest at the rate of one-half (1/2) of one (1%) percent for each month or fraction of a month intervening between August 31 September 14 and the date of payment. The added penalties and interest herein provided shall belong to the Village and shall constitute a charge and shall be a lien against the property to which the taxes themselves apply, collectible in the same manner as the taxes to which they are added.

The proposed charter amendments shall be submitted to the voters in the following ballot questions at the November 4, 2014 election.

SAMPLE BALLOT QUESTIONS

1. Shall section 7.2 of the Barton Hills Village charter be amended to provide that the Village President shall submit the fiscal year budget proposal to the Board of Trustees at the first regular meeting in January?

Yes ☐ No ☐

2. Shall section 7.4 of the Barton Hills Village charter be amended to provide that the Village budget shall be adopted in March of each year?

Yes ☐ No ☐

3. Shall section 8.8 of the Barton Hills Village charter be amended to provide that village taxes may be paid without penalty or interest if paid by September 14 of each year?

Yes ☐ No ☐

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

BHV NOVEMBER 2014 ELECTION When Barton Hills became a village in 1973 the election date was set for May of each year. However, in compliance with the federal Help America Vote Act 2002 (passed in response to the serious voting issues of the 2000 Presidential election), the State of Michigan has made a number of election law changes. Besides establishing the statewide Qualified Voter File (which links voter registration to driver’s licenses) they limited the days available for elections to be held and offered villages two choices: November on the general ballot or September on a local ballot. In 2004 the BHV annual May election was moved to the odd year September date that would allow the Village to continue to conduct its own election just for the Board of Trustees seats.

Continuing their efforts to improve the integrity and security of the election process, the State significantly increased the certification requirements for those who conduct elections, and consolidated some elections, seeking to have fewer election days with highly trained people in charge of the overall voting process. School elections were moved to township administration and this year village elections were also reassigned. So instead of BHV conducting its own election last September, residents will vote on BHV seats/propositions this coming November at the general election. At the same time and place they are choosing a state governor, BHV voters will also be choosing village trustees.

While it is a little sad that a BHV tradition is ending there are a number of advantages in this change:

--BHV voters will go to the same polling location (Ann Arbor Township Hall) for all elections.

--The increasingly complex paperwork will all be handled by the very competent township election officials, who conduct several elections each year, rather than by Village workers who have to play catch up every other year.

--Costs will be reduced as BHV will share the expense of election workers, public notices, forms and equipment.

--Paperwork necessary for voter registration, candidate filings, absentee ballots, etc. will be handled by the township and questions can be directed to people who know the most current and correct answers.

It is still absolutely essential that Barton Hills Village residents

participate in and sustain self-government by voting!

Four seats on the BHV Board of Trustees and three charter amendment questions will be decided by BHV voters on November 4. While some things will change, many things will stay the same. Candidates for the office of Trustee will still need BHV resident signatures on nominating petitions. Future issues of the Barton Bulletin and postings on the BHV website will feature candidate biographies, instructions on how to obtain an absentee ballot and where to find sample ballots. The residents will continue to provide the support and effort necessary to keep Barton Hills Village running smoothly.

February 2014  VOL. LX  No. 1

PUBLIC BUDGET HEARING Barton Hills Village will hold a public budget hearing at the Village Hall, 199 Barton Shore Drive, on Monday, March 10, 2014 beginning at 6:00 PM. A copy of the proposed budget for fiscal year 2014-2015 will be on file and available to the public in the Clerk’s Office after March 1, 2014. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be the subject of this hearing.

WATER CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REPORT The attached annual report for calendar year 2013 is published in compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act and summarizes the status of the BHV water system during the last calendar year. Please read it carefully and contact the numbers given for questions or concerns. [posted on website]

PLANNING COMMISSION A Special Meeting of the Barton Hills Village Planning Commission will be held on Tuesday, March 25, 2014 at 6:30 PM at the Village Hall. Revision of the zoning ordinance will be the subject of the meeting. Text of the proposed zoning ordinance is published on the website (vil-bartonhills.org) under the Ordinances tab and is also available from the Clerk’s office.

IN SYMPATHY Deepest sympathies to the family of Donald C. Smith, long time former resident who passed away recently.

H2O HEROS The Saving Water Saves Energy project of the Huron River Watershed Council (HRWC) has launched a “Pledge, Save, Win” Contest to encourage homeowners in the watershed to tap into saving water, energy and money now through March 31, 2014. The project will pay the first quarter water bill, up to $250, of three lucky winners.

The average person in the United States uses 99 gallons of water per day for things like bathing, cooking and laundry. Even changing simple habits, like turning off the tap while brushing teeth, can save 8-12 gallons per day. The goal of the contest is to raise awareness and promote water conservation and efficiency as a means to save. According to HRWC sources up to 13% of the nation’s electrical energy goes to pumping, treating and heating water supplies. It is hoped that the contest will inspire families to consider their water use and how it relates to issues like energy and climate change.

There are just three steps for entering the contest. First, users should go to www.h2oheroes.org, to watch a 60-second public service announcement. Second, the family pledges to do one or more activities to save water daily. Third, the family must report what they did to save water. Reporting can come in the form of videos, photos or other creative ideas. Winners will be selected based on creativity and effectiveness. To help jumpstart a family’s efforts, www.h2oheroes.org has many tips and tools, including an online savings calculator from the Alliance for Water Efficiency. Winners will be announced by April 15, 2014. The Saving Water Saves Energy Project is made possible by a grant from the Masco Corporation Foundation. See www.hrwc.org/our-work/programs/saving-water-saves-energy.

HRWC is a nonprofit coalition of local communities (including Barton Hills Village), businesses, and residents established in 1965 to protect the Huron River and its tributary streams, lakes, wetlands, and groundwater. HRWC works to inspire attitudes, behaviors, and economies that protect, rehabilitate, and sustain the Huron River system. Services include hands-on citizen education, technical assistance in policy development, and river protection and monitoring projects. See www.hrwc.org for more information.

THINK SPRING! With all the white still surrounding us, thoughts of spring may be a major antidote to cabin fever. While you’re leafing through seed catalogs and dreaming of warmer days, please keep these things in mind:

--Planting gardens is a fine activity. However, if you’re planning a significant landscaping project, please check with the Clerk’s office about necessary permits for walls/fences and soil erosion controls.

--Take a look at where the snow is piled up this year, for reference when you think about plantings, lights, sprinklers and other aspects of landscaping. Such items that are beautiful in the warm weather are invisible under the snow, making it difficult for the snowplow drivers to determine where to drive. The trucks plow from the road towards your house and the snow has to go somewhere at the end; an important thought to consider when planting bushes or placing decorative elements.

--If a sprinkler system is part of your dream, please keep water conservation in mind. Systems with moisture sensors will save energy and money as well as providing just the right amount of water for your location.

--Consider using native plants which have adapted to regional conditions over a long period of time. They are drought resistant due to deep root systems, disease resistant, require little to no fertilizer and improve soil quality while working in community with each other and other habitat members.

Only 10 days until Daylight Savings Time begins (March 9)!

Only 21 days until the first day of Spring (March 20)!

(Any guesses on the last day of snow melt? Or ice melt from Barton Pond?)

December 2013  VOL. LIX  No. 11

HOLIDAY TRASH COLLECTION The regular trash collection schedule will be followed: Monday December 16, Monday December 30, Monday January 6.

HOLIDAY OFFICE HOURS The Village Hall (Clerk and Treasurer’s offices) will be closed from Friday December 20, 2013 through Friday January 3, 2014. Regular office hours (8:30-11:30 AM Monday-Thursday) will resume Monday January 6, 2014. If you have an urgent need please call the Village Hall number and follow the after hours instructions.

DIRECTORY ADDITION Contact Clerk’s Office for information

BOARD OF TRUSTEES The BHV Board of Trustees has set the following regular meeting dates for 2014: January 13, February 10, March 10, April 14, May 12 (annual meeting), June 9, July 14, August 11, September 8, October 13, November 10 and December 8. Board agendas and minutes are posted at the Village Hall and on the website.

PLANNING COMMISSION The BHV Planning Commission has approved the following meeting dates for 2014: February 18, May 20, August 26 and November 18.

NEW ORDINANCE At their December 9, 2013 meeting the Board of Trustees adopted Ordinance 46. The text of the new ordinance is printed below. Please note that the purpose of the ordinance is not to impose huge fines on residents but to encourage pedestrians to walk safely and not be in danger from vehicle traffic. Pedestrians are also encouraged to ensure visibility at night by wearing appropriate clothing and/or carrying a light.

Section 1. Definitions.

1. “Pedestrian” means a person walking, running or otherwise traveling other than in a vehicle.

2. “Organized event” means a race, parade, march or other planned event in the vehicle travel area of Village roads.

Section 2. Pedestrians in vehicle travel areas.

Every pedestrian in the Village road area paved for vehicle travel shall follow these regulations:

1. Travel to the far left of the road (facing traffic) when travel to the far left is possible and safe.

2. When traveling as a group, shall proceed not more than two abreast and shall proceed single file when vehicle traffic is present.

Section 3. Organized events.

No person shall arrange, publicize or participate in an organized event to be held on Village roads unless the event has been approved in advance by the Village Board of Trustees. The approval shall be based on a determination of whether the proposed event will be safe and whether or not it will cause inconvenience to Village residents. Approval may be conditioned upon providing proof of insurance that protects the Village regarding liability.

Section 4. Penalties.

Each violation of this ordinance shall be a civil infraction punishable by a civil fine of up to $500.00.

Happy Holidays!

November 2013  VOL. LIX  No. 10

HALLOWEEN THANKS In the appropriately shivery weather, everyone had a wonderful time on Dollie the Trolley. Many thanks to all who participated in the Halloween event, especially those who organized the route/riders/volunteer helpers, the residents who welcomed the trolley to stop at their homes, and those who provided a festive pizza party at the Village Hall before the ride. Two umbrellas (blue and maroon) were left in the Village Hall and an adjustable ring with gold band and green stone was found on the trolley. Contact Jan Esch to claim them.

DIRECTORY ADDITIONS Contact the Clerk’s Office for information

2014 COMMUNITY CALENDAR Enjoy the attached 2014 Community Calendar produced by the Huron River Watershed Council (HRWC), of which Barton Hills Village is a member. Along with the beautiful photos each month, take a look at the “H2O Heroes” quotes at the bottom of each page. Don’t wait until December to check out the fun “Get Your Hero On!” activity at the back of the calendar, which includes a chance to win an H2O Hero t-shirt. Contact Clerk’s Office for a copy of the calendar.

The HRWC website includes lots of interesting and helpful information including:

--mulching leaves as many area golf courses do instead of raking, with a link to MSU research;

--recycling aluminum canoes into works of art through the Canoe Image Art project being sponsored by a number of
community groups. Artist proposals are due by December 30, 2013 for the project which will feature a display of the transformed canoes in Ann Arbor City during August-November 2014;

--stories on fracking, Asian carp, water scarcity and climate change; and

--an entertaining video on how to portage a canoe at Argo Dam.

Take a look at www.hrwc.org.

PROPOSED ORDINANCE New Ordinance No. 46 concerning regulation of activities in the roads is proposed by the Board of Trustees. The text of the proposed ordinance is printed below. Residents may comment on the ordinance by attending to speak in person at the December 9, 2013 Board of Trustees meeting, and/or by sending written comments to the Trustees in care of the Clerk’s Office by mail (199 Barton Shore Drive, Ann Arbor MI 48105), fax (734-222-9177) or email (). Written comments must be received by 6:00 PM on December 9, 2013 to be included in the discussion at the Trustees meeting.

Section 1. Definitions.

1. “Pedestrian” means a person walking, running or otherwise traveling other than in a vehicle.

2. “Organized event” means a race, parade, march or other planned event in the vehicle travel area of Village roads.

Section 2. Pedestrians in vehicle travel areas.

Every pedestrian in the Village road area paved for vehicle travel shall follow these regulations:

1. Travel to the far left of the road (facing traffic) when travel to the far left is possible and safe.

2. When traveling as a group, shall proceed not more than two abreast and shall proceed single file when vehicle traffic is present.

Section 3. Organized events.

No person shall arrange, publicize or participate in an organized event on Village roads unless the event has been approved in advance by the Village Board of Trustees. The approval shall be based on a determination of whether the proposed event will be safe and whether or not it will cause inconvenience to Village residents. Approval may be conditioned upon providing proof of insurance that protects the Village regarding liability.

Section 4. Penalties.

Each violation of this ordinance shall be a civil infraction punishable by a civil fine of up to $500.00.

CAR SEAT FITTING A child safety car seat fitting will be held on Wednesday afternoon, November 20, 2013 from 4:00-6:30 PM at Suburban Chevrolet, 3515 Jackson Road, Ann Arbor. The event is sponsored in part by the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Department and the CS Mott Children’s Hospital “Mott Buckle Up!” program. To make an appointment to ensure that your car seats are properly fitted phone 763-2251.

SNOW PLOWING/SALTING This week’s dusting of snow is only a taste of what is to come and the BHV maintenance crew is getting ready for more of the white stuff. Roads are plowed and salted by the crew in the order of primary roads, secondary roads, and driveways beginning with the steepest ones. Road salt is used sparingly to protect the environment but adequately to ensure safe travel. Please use extra caution on snowy days, and remember the speed tables, which may not be as visible under the snow (but will still be felt!)

Happy Thanksgiving!

October 2013  VOL. LIX  No. 9

NEW RESIDENT DIRECTORIES Along with this Barton Bulletin, each household is receiving two paper copies of the 2013 BHV Resident Directory. Those who receive the Barton Bulletin by email will receive the electronic version along with the two paper copies.

There are bound to be some corrections needed (there is already one change made in the paper copies). Please contact Deputy Clerk Jan Esch (734-222-5209; ) to let her know about directory corrections. These and other changes throughout the year will be printed in future Barton Bulletins.

The Resident Directory is intended to help BHV residents contact each other. The directories are only given to BHV residents, and no information is given out by the BHV Clerk’s Office or BHV staff.

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING The Barton Hills Village Planning Commission will meet on Tuesday, November 12, 2013 at 6:30 PM at the Village Hall. The Commission will be discussing the proposed zoning ordinance along with regular business.

BHMC ELECTION Barton Hills Maintenance Corporation shareholders have received election materials for the Board of Directors election. Please contact Jan Esch if you have any questions about the election. Ballots must be returned no later than 5:00 PM on Tuesday, October 29, 2013. The outcome of the election will be verified at the BHMC Board of Directors meeting beginning at 6:00 PM on October 29, 2013, with notification of the results sent to shareholders on Wednesday October 30.

HALLOWEEN Contact Clerk’s Office for information

SOCIAL THANKS The Village Social held on October 10 was an enjoyable evening of delicious food and great conversation! Many thanks to the BHV Recreation Committee for coordinating this community event.

BHV AUDIT The Barton Hills Village annual audit for fiscal year ending March 31, 2013 is now available for public inspection at the Clerk’s Office.

ABOUT THOSE BAGGED LEAVES…. Please don’t! If you rake your leaves yourself, just put them in piles near the roadway where they can be vacuumed up. If you hire a landscape/lawn service to rake your leaves, they are expected to haul the leaves away.

October 2013  VOL. LIX  No. 8

THERE’S STILL TIME You can still RSVP for the VILLAGE SOCIAL being held on Thursday, October 10, 2013 from 6:30-8:30 PM at Barton Hills Country Club. Join your neighbors for a Mediterranean buffet and cocktails to renew friendships and make new ones. Get your check (made out to Barton Hills Village for $32/person) to Dep. Clerk Jan Esch.

MORE FUN See the attached flyer about the HALLOWEEN EVENT being held on Thursday, October 31, 2013. Dollie the Trolley, pizza, costumes, candy and lots of fun await but space is limited so reply quickly to the email listed on the flyer.

NOT SO MUCH FUN BUT STILL TIME There’s still time to schedule the pumping of your septic system before the snow flies. You can contact Dep. Clerk Jan Esch to verify if you are in compliance with the required every-4-years-or-more-as-needed pumping that helps protect our water resources from contamination. Also contact Jan when you’ve made that pumping appointment so she can continue to keep accurate records.

PUBLIC HEARING/BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS The Barton Hills Village Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on October 14, 2013 at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall, 199 Barton Shore Drive, regarding application for variance submitted by the owner of property at 530 Hillspur Road. Variance is requested from Section 5.03(c) of the Barton Hills Village Zoning Ordinance for construction of a safety fence in the set back. The application may be inspected at the Clerk’s Office at the Village Hall (734-222-5509). Written comments may be submitted in person, emailed (), faxed (734-222-9177) or mailed (Barton Hills Village, 199 Barton Shore Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48105) prior to the close of the public hearing.  The Board of Zoning Appeals will meet to consider this application following the public hearing.

The Barton Hills Village Board of Trustees regular meeting scheduled for October 14, 2013 at 6 PM will convene immediately following the Board of Zoning Appeals meeting.

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING The Barton Hills Village Planning Commission regular meeting scheduled for Tuesday October 22, 2013 will not be held due to lack of quorum. The meeting will be rescheduled.

BHV RESIDENT DIRECTORY The new edition of the BHV Resident Directory is expected to go to print the week of October 7. There is still time to make changes to your listing by contacting Dep. Clerk Jan Esch (734-222-5209; ). Name and address are listed; phone, email and children code are optional. The purpose of the Directory is to help BHV residents contact each other. It is only distributed to BHV residents and no information is given out by the BHV staff. Each home will receive two copies of the Directory. The electronic version will be distributed to residents on the email list as well.

IN SYMPATHY Contact BHV Clerk for information

FALL CLEAN UP Please consider these ideas when tackling fall clean-up projects.

--Lawn services are expected to haul leaves away as part of their contract.

--Mulching leaves during mowing adds nutrients to the soil.

--Leaves can be raked into wooded areas to add nutrients there.

--If you rake your own leaves, you can pile them near the road or driveway for BHV collection.

--Don’t pile leaves in the roadway where they will be a hazard to pedestrians and traffic.

--Don’t bag leaves, as BHV vacuums up the loose leaves.

--Leaf pick up will not be on trash pick up days since the same truck is used for both.

--Sort out sticks, rocks and debris that will clog/damage the leaf vacuum.

--Sticks and brush can be put in piles for separate pick up.

--Keep leaves, sticks and debris out of catch basins and gutters in the roads.

Other clean up ideas:

--Recycle unwanted items at the Washtenaw County Clean Up Day on Saturday, October 26 from 9-2 at Eastern Michigan University Rynearson Stadium parking lot. Check out www.ewashtenaw.org for details (government→departments→environmental health→recycling).

--While you’re at the eWashtenaw website also check out…

…Home Owner’s Handbook (government→water resources commissioner→water quality)

—Guide No. 3 Maintaining Septic Systems

—Guide No. 7 Michigan plants to consider for areas near water

—Rain Gardens

—River Safe Homes

…“Turning Trash into Treasure” and the Health Home Portal (government →departments→environmental health→recycling)

All of these resources are also available in paper copy from the BHV Clerk’s Office.

Thanks for helping to keep our beautiful natural resources clean and healthy!

 August 2013  VOL. LIX  No. 7

HOLIDAY TRASH COLLECTION Due to the Labor Day holiday, trash will be picked up on Tuesday September 3, 2013. The regular trash collection schedule (first, third and fifth Mondays of the month) will resume on Monday September 16, 2013.

WASHTENAW COUNTY CLEAN UP DAYS See the flyer on the reverse side for information about opportunities to recycle household items.   Contact the Clerk’s Office for information.

BHV RESIDENT DIRECTORY There are lots of new neighbors so the small green 2011 BHV Resident Directory is being updated/republished. If you would like to make changes to your listing or have questions about the Directory, please contact Dep. Clerk Jan Esch (734-222-5209; ). The purpose of the Directory is to help BHV residents contact each other. It is only distributed to BHV residents and no information is given out by the BHV staff. Name and address are listed; phone, email and children code are optional. Each home will receive two copies of the Directory. The electronic version is available by emailing Jan to request it.

SAVE THE DATE Barton Hills Village will host a Fall Social on Thursday, October 10. Invitations will be sent in early September.

COMING SOON… School buses will join the walkers, joggers, bicyclists, kids, slow drivers, pet walkers, lawn service vehicles, people getting their mail, low hanging branches, hidden driveways, speed tables and, of course, deer –all things that may surprise you when you come around that curve or over that rise. Please continue to observe speed limits and be ready for sudden stops as you drive our beautiful, winding roads.

NEW ON LINE The Huron River Watershed Council has added a new tool to their website: The Huron River Water Trail Trip Planner. This site includes interactive trip planning maps, real time weather and stream flow information, trail amenities and other features along the trail to make your next canoe/kayak trip on the Huron River a memorable success. HRWC has a wealth of information available at www.hrwc.org, from recreational events to environmental resources to thought-provoking articles to gorgeous photographs.

PLENTY OF TIME There’s still lots of time to schedule the pumping of your septic system. If you can’t remember when it was last done, it’s probably due. You can contact Jan Esch to verify if you are in compliance with the required every-4-years-or-more-as-needed pumping that helps protect our water resources from contamination. Also contact Jan when you’ve made that pumping appointment so she can continue to keep accurate records.

PUBLIC HEARING The Barton Hills Village Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on August 12, 2013 at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall, 199 Barton Shore Drive, to hear application for variances submitted by owners of property at 326 Juniper Lane. Variance is requested from Section 9.02(b) of the Barton Hills Village Zoning Ordinance for alteration of a nonconforming structure, and variance from Section 5.03(c) for construction in the set back. The application may be inspected at the Clerk’s Office at the Village Hall (734-222-5509). Written comments may be submitted in person, emailed (), faxed (734-222-9177) or mailed (Barton Hills Village, 199 Barton Shore Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48105) prior to the close of the public hearing.  The BHV Board of Zoning Appeals will meet immediately following the public hearing to discuss this application. The Barton Hills Village Board of Trustees regular meeting scheduled for August 12, 2013 at 6:00 PM will convene immediately following the Board of Zoning Appeals meeting.

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING CHANGE The regular meeting of the Barton Hills Village Planning Commission scheduled for Tuesday July 23, 2013 was cancelled. The meeting will be rescheduled soon. The Planning Commission will be discussing the comments received at the recent public hearing regarding the proposed zoning ordinance.

SPEED REMINDER Several resident complaints have been received concerning traffic speed on the BHV roadways. With more pedestrians, children on bicycles, folks walking pets, joggers and deer using the roads, motorists are reminded to obey the posted speed limits and drive with great care, watching for the speed tables, blind curves and hidden driveways. Residents are also asked to trim trees and bushes encroaching on the road to provide ample sightlines (BHV Ordinance No. 36 requires that “trees on private property shall be maintained so that no part intrudes upon a Village street in the space 10 feet above the surface of the right-of-way.”) Help keep everyone safe in our community.

SAVE THE DATE Barton Hills Village will host a Fall Social on Thursday, October 10. Invitations will be sent in early fall.

SECURITY REMINDER There have been several incidents of door-to-door solicitation in BHV recently. While solicitors cannot be prohibited from coming into the village, residents are not required to talk to them and can ask them to leave private property immediately. Call BHV Security (734-368-7874 or 734-368-7884) or the Washtenaw County Sheriff (994-2911 or 911) if help is needed. Some solicitors are legitimate and polite but others may be using the pretense of charities to pursue illegal activities. Remember to lock doors/windows, keep valuables out of sight, don’t give out personal information and report any suspicious persons/activities.

ENVIRONMENTAL UPDATE Barton Hills Village residents have an award-winning history of positive activity to protect and manage environmental resources. In addition to septic system maintenance monitoring and drinking water management BHV holds a State of Michigan stormwater jurisdiction permit and membership in several environmental protection groups.

As a member of the Washtenaw County Community Partners for Clean Streams, BHV receives helpful information from the Washtenaw County Water Resources Commissioner (formerly Drain Commissioner). The RiverSafe Home program encourages residents to adopt simple practices that can make a big difference in keeping the Huron River watershed clean and healthy by managing stormwater.

The term “stormwater” refers to water that flows untreated into drains, creeks and other avenues to the main watershed. Rainwater runs across roofs, cars, patios, driveways and roadways, carrying pollutants along with it. Water from sprinklers and hoses can wash fertilizer, household cleaners, spilled substances and animal wastes into catch basins and streams. Thoughtful management helps to reduce the amount of harmful pollution in stormwater.

The Washtenaw County RiverSafe Home program covers typical homeowner topics like:

--Home toxics, including cleaning products, prescription drugs, paint and other household materials that don’t belong in the water

--Yard care suggestions about soil testing, native plants, lawn care and rain gardens

--Auto maintenance tips including car washing and disposal of used auto fluids

--Pet/wildlife waste disposal, which is a growing factor in watershed pollution.

To learn much more go to www.ewashtenaw.org/government/drain_commissioner and scroll on the right to “Making Your Home River Safe”. Residents can also contact the BHV Clerk’s Office (734-222-5209; ) to request a paper copy of the RiverSafe Homeowner’s Manual.

To become more involved, consider joining the BHV Water Resources Advisory Committee (WRAC). This group of BHV residents and BHV Board of Trustees representatives helps to implement and maintain various environmental documents and activities. The current five- member WRAC is working on an update of the BHV Wellhead Protection Plan, and will be brainstorming on topics of stormwater management, invasive species control and native plantings in the near future. Contact the BHV Clerk’s Office for more information.

The natural resources of Barton Hills Village are highly treasured by the community, whose residents are working together to protect and preserve this beautiful place.

HOLIDAY FIREWORKS Barton Hills Country Club will be holding their annual member celebration of Independence Day with fireworks on Friday, June 28, 2013. Families with dogs and young children who might be upset by the noise should make appropriate arrangements. Residents are also advised to use extreme caution when setting off any legal fireworks, taking great care to prevent fires, injury or damage as well as being considerate of sleeping neighbors.

PUBLIC HEARING The Barton Hills Village Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on July 8, 2013 at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall, 199 Barton Shore Drive, to hear application for variances submitted by Matt Turner, owner of property at 855 Oakdale Road. Variance is requested from Section 5.01(b)(1) of the Barton Hills Village Zoning Ordinance for construction of garage space for more than three automobiles, and variance from Section 5.03(d) for construction of an accessory building taller than 15 feet. The application may be inspected at the Clerk’s Office at the Village Hall (734-222-5509). Written comments may be submitted in person, emailed (), faxed (734-222-9177) or mailed (Barton Hills Village, 199 Barton Shore Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48105) prior to the close of the public hearing.  The Barton Hills Village Board of Trustees regular meeting scheduled for July 8, 2013 at 6 PM will convene immediately following the Board of Zoning Appeals meeting.

TRUSTEES MEETING DATE CHANGE Since the State of Michigan moved the BHV election date from September 2013 to November 2014, the BHV Board of Trustees has moved its September meeting date from the posted date of September 16, 2013 back to the customary second Monday date of September 9, 2013. The meeting will begin at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall. Trustees meeting agendas and minutes are posted at the Village Hall and on the BHV website (vil-bartonhills.org) on the Thursday preceding the meeting date.

STAFF VACATIONS Notice will be posted on the door of the Village Hall when there are variations in office hours due to summer vacations. Contact information is also kept up to date on the Village Hall phone message available at 734-222-5209.

DIRECTORY UPDATE Contact the Clerk’s Office for information.

SUMMER ALERT While most people will enjoy a carefree summer, there are some potentially serious threats that can be lessened by taking simple precautionary actions. Read on to learn more about summer safety.

TICKS The 6/17/13 issue of the Huron River Watershed Council feature News to Us (www.hrwc.org) includes an article on the increase in the tick population in southeastern Michigan. The article provides photos of the three most common types of ticks and the recommendation to check people and pets thoroughly for ticks after being outdoors. Since some ticks may transmit Lyme disease, it is wise to use proactive measures such as wearing long sleeves and long pants tucked into socks, using repellants containing at least 20% DEET on exposed skin and permathrin on clothing, and avoiding brushy areas. Lyme disease is a serious illness that can be effectively treated if addressed promptly. For more information check the HRWC article and the website of the national Centers for Disease Control at www.cdc.gov/lyme or phone the CDC at 800-232-4636.

WEST NILE VIRUS The Washtenaw County Public Health Department has the following recommendations regarding West Nile Virus which is spread by certain types of mosquitoes:

--Wear light-colored clothing, long sleeves, long pants, shoes and socks when outdoors.

--Wear insect repellant containing DEET, Picaridin/KBR 3023, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus/PMD or IR3535 when outdoors, particularly at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

--Limit mosquito breeding sites by draining standing water in flowerpots/saucers, clogged gutters, wading pools, patio furniture covers and other water-collecting places around the home. Change water in birdbaths and outdoor pet dishes at least twice a week.

--Repair screens and seal other home openings to prevent mosquitoes from entering.

More information is available at www.cdc.gov/westnile , www.westnile.ewashtenaw.org , www.michigan.gov/westnilevirus or the West Nile Virus Information Line at 734-544-6750.

HEALTHY LAWN CARE Keep these tips in mind for maintaining a healthy lawn while also protecting the environment and watershed.

--Cut grass high, leaving 3 inches on the grass blade after mowing. Taller grass promotes root growth and shades out weeds.

--Mulch grass clippings, letting short clips fall back on the lawn. Clippings are a source of nitrogen so fertilizer can be reduced by 25% or more. Clippings do not cause thatch.

--Water appropriately. Don’t allow automatic sprinklers to run every day regardless of the weather--watering should not produce puddles in the lawn. Water early or late in the day to reduce evaporation due to heat and wind.

--Before applying fertilizer, have the soil tested. Knowing the nutrient levels for a particular lawn will help to avoid over-application of fertilizers that can be costly and cause pollution. Remember that fertilizers containing phosphorus are banned for home lawn care use in Michigan to help prevent algae blooms in waterways caused by high levels of phosphorus.

For more information check out www.ewashtenaw.org/healthyhome or phone the MSU Extension Master Gardener office at 734-997-1819.

                                                                  May 2013  VOL. LIX  No. 4

PUBLIC HEARING The Barton Hills Village Planning Commission will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, June 4, 2013 at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall, 195 Barton Shore Drive, Ann Arbor, for the purpose of considering the proposed Barton Hills Village Zoning Ordinance. 

Text of the proposed ordinance is posted on the BHV website (vil-bartonhills.org >>ordinances>>proposed zoning ordinance 2013/map) and is available in paper or electronic format from the BHV Clerk’s Office (734-222-5209; [email protected])

PLANNING COMMISSION SPECIAL MEETING The Barton Hills Village Planning Commission will hold a special meeting immediately following the public hearing scheduled for Tuesday, June 4, 2013 at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall for the purpose of approving minutes and discussing the proposed zoning ordinance.

NOISE ORDINANCE With the arrival of pleasant weather residents will be enjoying the outdoors with garden work and lawn clean up, refreshments on the patio and open windows. Please be considerate of your neighbors and adhere to the requirements of the BHV Noise Ordinance (No. 5 posted on the website or available from the Clerk’s office). This includes prohibition of activities during certain hours if a clearly audible sound can be heard beyond your property lines, such as:

--power tools, leaf blowers, lawn mowers and other power equipment between 6 PM-8 AM

--construction activities/equipment between 6 PM-8 AM Mon-Fri and any weekend/holiday

--bug zappers, radios, TV, music and musical instruments between 10 PM-8 AM

Also consider when your generator tests as those sounds may be more noticeable in the night time hours. Thank you for helping to maintain the peaceful ambiance of our community (and providing a good night’s sleep).

DIRECTORY UPDATE     Contact clerk for information

ESCH FOOD DRIVE The David Esch family extends their deepest thanks to all who participated in their recent Scouting For Food drive in honor of their son Tim, an Eagle Scout who died in an auto accident at age 18 in 2005. There were at least a couple of donors who left items but didn’t sign the book, and the Eschs want to thank them. Total food/cash donations were sent to Food Gatherers and will provide over 18,000 meals in Washtenaw County.

SECURITY Several home invasions have been reported recently in townships near BHV. Security notices from BHV are sent (via email/paper as requested) when there are security issues of immediate importance. Enforcement authorities suggest the following tips to help protect your home and property.
--Keep all outside doors closed and locked when not in use. Remember to close garage doors before retiring for the evening.
--Record all serial numbers for your electronics.
--Engrave your MI driver’s license number on electronics.
--Document and photograph your valuable jewelry, then keep it out of sight.
--Keep firearms locked and secured.
--Keep wallets and purses off of the top of the refrigerator or kitchen counter.
--Keep track of all credit cards.

--Use lighting with motion sensors for outdoor entryways.

--Keep landscaping neatly trimmed to avoid blind spots. A general rule is to trim trees six feet above the ground and shrubs below three feet.

--Call 911 to report suspicious persons, incidents or vehicles.

SPRING CLEANING These things may be on your spring to-do list.

Have your septic tank pumped. BHV Ordinance No. 21 requires pumping every four years or more often if needed. Contact Dep. Clerk Jan Esch when you make an appointment so she can arrange for a BHV staff member to come at the same time to fill out the paperwork. Regular septic maintenance can help avoid costly repairs and protect our natural environment.

Recycle. Please rinse out cans/bottles before depositing them in the appropriate bins in the maintenance area. No trash or food items, please, to prevent odors and animal curiosity. Cardboard should be left by the building so the staff can bale it separately. Contact the Clerk’s office for pick up of household hazardous waste (paint, cleaning products, fertilizer, etc).

Landscape. If you rake or trim trees/bushes, BHV will pick up piles to be disposed—please keep leaves (which are vacuumed) separate from sticks/brush (which are chipped). If you hire a company or service, they are expected to haul away these items.

Pull garlic mustard. Pulled plants can be left in piles for pick up near but not in the road.

Trim your trees. Dead/dying/dangerous trees should be removed. Trees/shrubs along the roadways should be trimmed back and up to allow adequate sight lines for safe travel.

Eliminate standing water. Empty out or cover places where water collects and mosquitos can multiply.

Enjoy! Relax and enjoy the beauty of our healthy, well-kept community.

May 2013  VOL. LIX  No. 3

MAY 13, 2013 MEETINGS Several meetings will be held on Monday, May 13, 2013, beginning at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall, with each meeting following immediately after the previous one. Residents are encouraged to attend.

1) Barton Hills Village Board of Zoning Appeals/Public Hearing. The BZA will review an application for variance regarding proposed construction of a garage at 260 Barton Shore Drive. The application is available for public inspection at the BHV Clerk’s Office.

2) Barton Hills Village Annual Meeting. Regular business will be conducted by the Board of Trustees in addition to acceptance of annual committee reports (reports are attached to this Bulletin). The Board will receive comment from the residents on any issues of concern. A public comment period is also on the agenda for all Board of Trustees meetings, which are held the second Monday of each month at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall.

3) Barton Hills Maintenance Corporation Annual Stockholders’ Meeting. Shareholders and the BHMC Board of Directors will discuss important financial and other matters, including approval of the annual budget.

PLANNING COMMISSION The BHV Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, June 4, 2013 beginning at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall to receive comment on the proposed zoning ordinance. The document is available for public inspection at the BHV Clerk’s Office, can be requested in electronic format (email ) and is posted on the BHV website (vil-bartonhills.org).

H2O HEROES RAIN BARREL SALE The Huron River Watershed Council is holding a public sale of discount rain barrels. Purchasers can go online now through May 13 to order their rain barrels in advance for pick up Saturday, May 18, 9am-2pm at the Washtenaw County Road Commission, 555 N. Zeeb Rd., Ann Arbor. Rain barrels are priced at $75 for a 65-gallon 85% recycled content model in charcoal or $85 for a classic edition barrel in granite. These prices are at least 20% off regular retail prices, and without shipping charges homeowners save even more. Go to www.hrwc.org/rainbarrels to get the promotional code and purchase a rain barrel. For specific information on rain barrel use, go to www.hrwc.org/rainbarrelinfoguide.

Rain barrels collect rainwater from rooftops and save homeowners water, energy and money by reducing summer tap water needs. The stored water can be used by homeowners to irrigate gardens and lawns where the water will slowly flow into the soil and plants. In addition, rain barrels also slow the rapid flow of water entering the stormwater system—storm drains, culverts, rivers and lakes—and help reduce soil erosion and flooding. A portion of the proceeds from the rain barrel sale will support HRWC’s work to protect and restore the Huron River.

Check out great Barton Dam photos at www.hrwc.org--scroll down to “River Foam

Contact clerk’s office for financial/annual reports

                                                               April 2013  Special Edition

April 17, 2013

Dear Barton Hills Village resident,

Here are a few items that warrant your attention before the next edition of the Barton Bulletin is published.

1)  You may have received a flyer in/on your mailbox from Eradico Mosquito Services.  The heading would indicate that this may be a village-wide insect control program.  However, this is a private company solicitation and is not sponsored by Barton Hills Village.  It is completely your choice whether or not to purchase this service.

2)  The Barton Hills Village Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on May 13, 2013 at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall, 199 Barton Shore Drive, to hear application for variances submitted by Richard and Susan Allison, owners of property at 260 Barton Shore Drive. Variance is requested from Section 5.01(b)(1) of the Barton Hills Village Zoning Ordinance for construction of garage space for more than three automobiles, and variance from Section 5.03(d) for construction of an accessory building taller than 15 feet. The application may be inspected at the Clerk’s Office at the Village Hall (734-222-5509). Written comments may be submitted in person, mailed to Barton Hills Village, 199 Barton Shore Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48105 or emailed to [email protected] prior to the close of the public hearing.  The Barton Hills Village Board of Trustees regular meeting scheduled for May 13, 2013 at 6 PM will convene immediately following the Board of Zoning Appeals meeting.

Residents are reminded to check the BHV Zoning Ordinance (posted on-line at vil-bartonhills.org) and to contact the Clerk's Office for permit information before beginning exterior construction/renovation/landscape projects.

3)  Residents are also reminded that contractors who are hired for yard clean up are expected to haul away their collected yard wastes, leaves and brush.

4)  Looking ahead:  Barton Hills Village Annual Meeting, Monday May 13, 2013 immediately following the Board of Zoning Appeals meeting which begins at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall.  More details and annual committee reports will be published in the next issue of the Barton Bulletin.

Happy Spring!

Jan Esch, Deputy Clerk
Barton Hills Village
734-222-5209; [email protected]

April 2013  VOL. LIX  No. 2

BARTON HILLS VILLAGE WEBSITE POSTINGS A variety of information, including documents that have been published in the Barton Bulletin, is available online at the Barton Hills Village website: vil-bartonhills.org.

--BHV Water Consumer Confidence Reports. The most recent report (2012) as well as previous yearly reports back to 2005 are posted. These reports describe the source and quality of BHV drinking water.

--Annual Budgets. Budgets for fiscal years 2012-2013 and 2013-2014 are posted.

--BHV Master Plan (2010)

--Meeting minutes for the Board of Trustees (2005-present), Board of Zoning Appeals (2006-present) and Planning Commission (2008-present) plus current meeting agendas.

Paper copies of all information are available from the BHV Clerk’s office.

NEW SECURITY NUMBER The Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Department has a new non-emergency phone number: 734-994-2911. BHV residents should call 911 for emergencies.

H2O HEROES RAIN BARREL SALE The Huron River Watershed Council is holding a public sale of discount rain barrels. Purchasers can go online now through May 13 to order their rain barrels in advance for pick up Saturday, May 18, 9am-2pm at the Washtenaw County Road Commission, 555 N. Zeeb Rd., Ann Arbor. Rain barrels are priced at $75 for a 65-gallon 85% recycled content model in charcoal or $85 for a classic edition barrel in granite. These prices are at least 20% off regular retail prices, and without shipping charges homeowners save even more. Go to www.hrwc.org/rainbarrels to get the promotional code and purchase a rain barrel. For specific information on rain barrel use, go to www.hrwc.org/rainbarrelinfoguide.

Rain barrels collect rainwater from rooftops and save homeowners water, energy and money by reducing summer tap water needs. The stored water can be used by homeowners to irrigate gardens and lawns where the water will slowly flow into the soil and plants. In addition, rain barrels also slow the rapid flow of water entering the stormwater system—storm drains, culverts, rivers and lakes—and help reduce soil erosion and flooding. A portion of the proceeds from the rain barrel sale will support HRWC’s work to protect and restore the Huron River.

DIRECTORY UPDATE Contact Deputy Clerk Jan Esch for updates.

Environmental news
Garlic Mustard This invasive herb thrives in the low light of the forest floor and aggressively competes with native plants. It grows in a two-year cycle, starting with rosettes close to the ground that appear as soon as the temperatures rise above freezing. The second year tall stalks have triangular, sharp-tooth-edged leaves topped with clusters of small white flowers. Early spring is the optimum time to deal with garlic mustard since it begins to grow before most other plants. Pulling by hand is the simplest and most effective control method followed by mowing and herbicide application. Containment rather than total removal is usually the most realistic goal and persistence over a number of years is necessary. For more information visit www.ipm.msu.edu/invasive_species/garlic_mustard or www.ipaw.org/invaders/garlic_mustard.

Oak Wilt Oak wilt is a fungal disease that is spread by insects and through tree roots. Members of the red oak group (pointed leaf lobes) are more susceptible and often die very quickly after becoming infected. Members of the white oak group (rounded leaf lobes) may decline more slowly or not be effected at all. Oak wilt is spread by sap beetles that are attracted to trees that have been recently trimmed or damaged. No pruning should occur during warm weather, typically April 1 through October 15. Storm damage should be treated promptly and any infected trees removed to prevent the spread to healthy trees. Oak wilt can be difficult to diagnose so dying trees may require the services of a qualified arborist. For more information visit http://treedoctor.anr.msu.edu/oakwilt or phone the Washtenaw County MSU Extension Master Gardener hotline at 888-678-3564.

Controlled Ecological Burn Season The City of Ann Arbor may be conducting controlled ecological burns in city nature areas between February 27-May 31, 2013. Signs are posted along roadways during burns to alert motorists to hazy smoke and unusual odors. Burns are weather dependent so cannot be scheduled in advance. Fires are under control at all times. BHV does not do any ecological burning, but BHV residents may notice smoke and odors from city burns in parkways between Barton Dam and Argo Dam. For more information contact the City of Ann Arbor Natural Area Preservation office at 734-794-6627, or www.a2gov.org/NAPburn.

Household Hazardous Waste BHV maintenance staff will pick up household hazardous waste items for disposal (such as paint, cleaning products, fertilizers, pesticides, etc). Please leave the items near your trash containers with a note indicating they are to be taken, or contact Walter Esch (368-7874) or the BHV Clerk’s Office for a pick up. These items are taken to the Washtenaw County Home Toxics Reduction Program. For a list of acceptable items, visit www.ewashtenaw.org/government/departments/environmental_health/recycling_home_toxics/ hhw. For other recycling questions, contact the BHV Clerk’s Office.

February 2013  VOL. LIX  No. 1

PUBLIC BUDGET HEARING A public budget hearing will be held at the Barton Hills Village Hall, 199 Barton Shore Drive, on Monday, March 11, 2013 beginning at 6:00 PM. A copy of the proposed budget for fiscal year 2013-2014 will be on file and available to the public in the Clerk’s Office after March 1, 2013. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be the subject of this hearing.

WATER CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REPORT The attached annual report for calendar year 2012 is published in compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act and summarizes the status of the BHV water system during the last calendar year. Please read it carefully and contact the numbers given for questions or concerns. See the report on this website under Consumer Confidence Report.

DIRECTORY  Contact Deputy Clerk Jan Esch for updates.  Many residents are now receiving the Barton Bulletin and other BHV information via email.  If you would like to receive the BHV Resident Directory in electronic format, please email Jan at [email protected].

SECURITY There have been several home invasions (theft of TVs, jewelry and other personal property) reported in townships around Barton Hills Village in the past two weeks. Remember to take reasonable precautions to ensure the safety of your home and property. BHV will notify residents of any significant security issues as soon as possible using the email list and paper copy as necessary. If you would like to be informed of other public safety notices, consider subscribing to Nixle.com. Nixle is a free on-line community information service that sends up to date notices posted by law enforcement and other agencies concerning the area near you according to your specifications (email, text, etc.).

BHV ELECTIONS A chapter in BHV history is coming to a close this year as 2013 will be the first year Barton Hills Village has not held their own election for seats on the Board of Trustees. The election will take place, but not this year and not in our Village Hall.

What has happened? Due to changes to Michigan Election Law made by the state government, our September election in the odd years has been moved to the November election date in the even years. This means that we will not be holding an election this September 2013, but will instead vote for Trustees in November 2014.

Where will we vote? In the past BHV residents have voted for all elections at the Ann Arbor Township Hall except for the Trustees’ election which was held in the BHV Village Hall. From now on, all elections will be held at the Ann Arbor Township Hall, 3792 Pontiac Trail. The Trustees’ election will be part of the November ballot.

What else will change? Details have not been received from the State Election Bureau yet but the only significant change is the location of the election. Candidates will still gather signatures for nominating petitions and you will receive lots of information about the election and the candidates. Trustee terms of office have been extended one year but only to accommodate the changeover.

Why is this happening? The State of Michigan has worked very hard to improve the election process so they don’t end up with difficult situations like other states have experienced. They were one of the first to institute the statewide voter registration file and have developed an extensive training program for those managing and working at elections. By moving all Village elections to the administration of the townships/counties, they are narrowing down the number of different people who run elections and providing lots of training/experience for those people. With the use of new technology and procedures, elections administration is complex and should be carried out by people who do it a lot and are trained to do it well.

Going forward. We may miss the social aspects of our small community election but we can make that up in other ways. Change is always hard, but you would be going to vote in the November elections anyway (Right? Right!) so this will not be a big change. Absentee ballots will also be available as always. BHV residents will continue to choose their governing officials who volunteer their time to serve the community.

SAFE SIDEWALKS, SAFE RIVER Winter is still with us and sidewalks need to be cleared. Please consider the following tips from the Huron River Watershed Council when thinking about snow removal.

--Melting snow finds its way into catch basins and streams leading to the Huron River. It will carry salt, sand and other materials with it that are potentially harmful to our water resources.

--Instead of calcium chloride consider a deicer like magnesium chloride. Check the label for contents and proper application instructions.

--Use as little of snow removal products as necessary.

--Shovel early and often to avoid use of removal products altogether.

It is up to you to balance needs for safety, environmental impact, cost and convenience when choosing snow removal techniques for your home. Thanks for taking the time to make wise choices. More information about snow removal and lots of other helpful articles (think spring with rain gardens or read about climate change, for example) are available from the HRWC at www.hrwc.org.

December 2012  VOL. LVIII  No. 10

HOLIDAY TRASH PICK UP Due to the holidays, trash will be picked up on Monday, December 17, 2012, Wednesday December 26, 2012 and Monday January 7, 2013. Regular schedule will resume in January, with trash collection on the first, third and fifth Mondays.

HOLIDAY OFFICE HOURS The Village Hall (offices of Clerk and Treasurer) will be closed from noon on Tuesday December 18, 2012 through Thursday January 3, 2013. Regular office hours (8:30-11:30 AM Monday-Thursday) will resume on Monday January 7, 2013. If you have an urgent need during this time, please call the office at 734-222-5209 and follow the after-hours contact instructions.

DIRECTORY UPDATE(Contact Clerk for details)

BOARD OF TRUSTEES The Board of Trustees has set the following regular meeting dates for 2013: January 14, February 11, March 11, April 8, May 13, June 10, July 8, August 12, September 16 (following the September 10 BHV election), October 14, November 11, December 9. The agenda for Board of Trustees meetings is posted at the Village Hall and on the website (vil-bartonhills.org) on the Thursday preceding the meeting. Monthly meetings begin at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall, with a public comment period at each meeting. Meeting minutes are also posted at the Village Hall and on the website.

PLANNING COMMISSION The BHV Planning Commission has approved the following meeting dates for 2013: January 22, April 23, July 23 and October 22. All meetings begin at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall, with a public comment period at each meeting. The agenda for Planning Commission meetings is posted at the Village Hall and on the website (vil-bartonhills.org) on the Thursday preceding the meeting. Meeting minutes are also posted at the Village Hall and on the website.

EMAIL CONTACT Many of you are receiving this Barton Bulletin via email. Please email Jan at if you would prefer to receive a paper copy and only want your email address to be used for urgent or time-sensitive communications from BHV.

Happy Holidays!

October 2012  Vol. LVIII  No. 9

VILLAGE PICNIC About 50 residents braved the uncertain weather to enjoy the Village Picnic on Sunday afternoon October 14. Most stayed inside the Village Hall but some ventured out to watch the kids playing and the Eschs manning the grills. Thanks to all who brought delicious food and helped with set up/clean up.

HALLOWEEN REMINDER The annual BHV Halloween ride featuring Dollie the Trolley will be held on Halloween evening, Wednesday October 31. (Contact the Clerk's office for details)

DIRECTORY UPDATE (Contact the Clerk’s office for details)

LEAF PICK UP The BHV maintenance staff will vacuum up leaves raked by residents if piles are left along driveways or near the side of the road (but not in the road to cause a traffic hazard). If a lawn service company is hired, they are expected to haul away leaves and brush. Leaves cannot be picked up on trash days (first, third and fifth Mondays) since the same vehicle (with different attachments) is used for both. Please sort out sticks and brush that will damage the leaf vac (these are picked up separately) and don’t bag the leaves. Thanks!

THERE’S STILL TIME... ...to have your septic tank pumped this fall. Please contact Jan Esch (, 734-222-5209) when you make an appointment with a pumper and one of the BHV staff will come at the same time to fill out the paperwork. BHV Ordinance #21 requires pumping at least every four years (more often if necessary). Contact Jan if you want to know the last recorded pumping date.

EMAIL CONTACT LIST The new BHV Email Contact List was successfully used for the recent water notices and Halloween notice. Please email Jan () if you:

--wish to add, change or delete an email address on the list

--wish to receive all BHV communications via email rather than just urgent notices

--have any other comments about the email list.

Written notices and Barton Bulletins will continue to be delivered to all BHV residents.

RESIDENT PARTICIPATION OPPORTUNITY A few BHV residents are needed to serve on a short-term committee to update the BHV Wellhead Protection Plan. This important document, one of the first of its kind in the state, was approved by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) in April 1997. The purpose of the Wellhead Protection Plan (WPP) is to develop and sustain a program to ensure an adequate safe drinking water supply for residents.

Residents volunteering to serve on the committee would review the current plan, identify areas that need updating and provide input regarding groundwater and stormwater pollution prevention. This would be a short term commitment with a limited time frame. Contact Jan Esch by November 15, 2012 if you are interested in serving on the committee.

Six goals are listed in the current WPP.

1) Research land uses within the wellhead protection area that may pose a threat to the groundwater supply.

2) Protect the drinking water supply by working to prevent the pollution of surface and groundwater.

3) Educate property owners to ensure that land use practices on their property do not threaten the drinking water supply.

4) Plan and prepare for water supply emergencies.

5) Promote inter-governmental cooperation to ensure protection of the drinking water supply.

6) Maintain an awareness of the state and local laws and regulations that apply to wellhead protection.

The BHV Board of Trustees and staff carry on a variety of continued efforts to meet these goals. The BHV Water Emergency Contingency Plan is regularly reviewed/approved by the MDEQ. Public education tools, such as Barton Bulletin articles, printed materials distributed to residents and area-wide projects like the Huron River Watershed Council annual calendar, help to keep residents informed and up to date on water quality issues. BHV is a member of the Huron River Watershed Council, the Middle Huron Watershed Initiative and the Partners for Clean Streams. Barton Hills Village also holds a State of Michigan General Watershed permit for stormwater control/pollution prevention. In 2010 BHV received the Washtenaw County “Excellence in Water Quality Protection” award.

The Barton Hills community considers protection of water resources a matter of highest priority. The efforts of individual residents to maintain septic systems, follow best practices in recycling and stormwater pollution prevention, and provide input to the board and staff are essential to ensuring the continued good health and protection of our environmental resources.