3/7/24 Rochester Post

BANK PUTS UNWANTED HOUSEHOLD BASICS TO GOOD USE

New parking meter enforcement times take effect in Rochester

BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com

ROCHESTER — Those who frequently park in the city of Rochester should be aware of some recent changes to the downtown parking system.

On Jan. 1, the city altered its parking meter enforcement times from the previous 9 a.m.-9 p.m. to 11 a.m.-11 p.m. MondaysSaturdays.

The move, Rochester Police Chief George Rouhib said, allows frequent visitors to park for free in the morning, when they come down for a walk, to shop or to grab a drink.

“It gives the people who come to town every morning just to walk around for a few hours, at the most, the chance to park for free. This way, we can capture the bar crowds, the night crowds, who come in at night,” he said.

The parking meter rate remains the same at $1.25 per hour Mondays-Saturdays, while meter parking remains free on Sundays, federal holidays and for those with a handicap sticker or license plate.

ABOVE: The entrance kiosks of the parking deck at East Street and Fourth Street will be upgraded this month with a touchscreen, a scanner and a credit card-only payment option. LEFT: Rochester recently changed its parking meter enforcement times from the previous 9 a.m.-9 p.m. to 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays.

Photos by Patricia O’Blenes

BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com

ROCHESTER/ROCHESTER HILLS/ OAKLAND TOWNSHIP

— Online safety can be tricky to navigate in today’s digital world.

Whether you come across inappropriate content, are contacted by scammers or strangers online, or experience cyberbullying, learning how to identify and manage internet safety risks has never been more important.

“Having a clear understanding of the digital world and how to safely navigate it is critical for every member of our community,” said Lindsay Wood, the vice chair of Rochester Area Youth Assistance.

To help educate students and community members on responsible internet use, Rochester Area Youth Assistance is partnering with Rochester Community Schools to host digital consciousness presentations at the four RCS middle schools, followed by one for the community.

Deputy Superintendent for Teaching and Learning Debi Fragomeni said the district tries to do all it can to keep students,

Rochester Hills to celebrate 40 years with park transformations

BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com

HILLS — Rochester Hills is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year with a large investment into its parks system.

During the 2024 Community Outlook Breakfast Feb. 29, Rochester Hills Mayor Bryan Barnett announced the city is hoping to dedicate $27 million to revitalize four city parks — Brooklands, Nowicki, Bloomer and Spencer.

Rochester looks to the future with new development projects

BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com

ROCHESTER — Many commercial and residential projects are currently underway in Rochester, with many more in the planning stages, making for an exciting start to 2024, officials said.

Rochester Mayor Stuart Bikson shared some highlights during the 2024 Community Outlook breakfast

hosted by the Rochester Regional Chamber of Commerce at Oakland University Feb. 29.

“We have a lot of exciting things going on in our city … a lot of really interesting, new concepts are coming to Rochester,” Bikson said.

One of the city’s most anticipated projects, according to Bikson, is The Granary — the conversion of the 2-acre former historic elevator site at the corner of

“My goal is that, in the next four years, Rochester Hills will have the greatest park system, not in Oakland County, not in Michigan, not in the Midwest, but when you think of premier parks in the United States of America, Rochester Hills will be one of the top communities you talk about,” Barnett said.

After more than two years of strategic planning and public input, Director of Parks and Natural Resources Ken Elwert said, the city is excited to move forward on expanded visions for the four parks.

“They include some of the most frequently requested amenities from our community, such as additional walking trails, access to water, a dog park (maybe two) as well as new and expanded playgrounds,” Elwert said in an email. “We are excited to dive into what’s next and expect to see development of some items as soon as 2025.”

Barnett unveiled concept designs inspired by several workshops, surveys and communications held with residents by the city’s Department of Parks and Natural Resources.

This year, he said, the city will begin work on Brooklands Park, next to the city’s first splash pad at 1585 E. Auburn Road.

“We’re envisioning a city center, a place to gather, a place to come together,” Barnett said.

Eugene S. Nowicki Park, which includes 35 acres of property in an area just across from Adams High School and north of the Village of Rochester Hills, is currently a blank canvas that city

The property at the intersection of First and Diversion will be a multi-family residential development called Riverfront Place Apartments.

Photo by Mary Beth Almond

Voters pass RCS non-homestead operating millage renewal

BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com

ROCHESTER — Voters in the Rochester Community Schools district hit the polls Feb. 27 to decide on the renewal of a non-homestead school operating millage, with the measure passing by 74%, according to unofficial election results from Oakland and Macomb counties.

The proposal asked voters whether to renew 18.5004 mills and restore 0.5 mill eroded by the Headlee Amendment — for a total of 19.0004 mills — for a period of five years.

The millage proposal ultimately passed with 18,459 yes votes to 6,478 no votes in Macomb and Oakland counties.

District officials said the approval enables the district to receive its full per-pupil

foundation allowance and restore millage lost as a result of the Headlee Amendment.

“Great schools are the foundation of a great community. It’s truly in the best interest of our students, staff, families, business and community partners to make certain that the district continues to receive its full foundation allowance set by the state. This funding ensures resources are available to provide the highest quality public education possible,” interim Superintendent John Silveri said in a statement.

Under the school aid funding formula set by Proposal A in 1994, the state of Michigan assumes that the district collects 18 mills — $18 in taxes for every $1,000 of taxable value — on non-homestead property annually. Non-homestead property includes business real property, rental homes, vacant

See RCS on page 20A

TIME TO GET OUTDOOR SPACES READY FOR SPRING AND SUMMER

BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — Outside living spaces have grown in popularity over the years. As spring approaches, this is the time to start preparing lawns and gardens for “backyarding” fun.

“‘Backyarding,’ I think we came up with the term during COVID. It was the first time I heard it,” said Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation, which advocates for the care of outdoor spaces from yards to parks. “It’s a verb meaning to champion the outdoors and creating the spaces for your particular needs.”

According to Kiser, lawns and backyards are no longer meant just to look pretty and provide curb appeal.

“We’ve worked with Realtors who have said, ‘Young people want outdoor living spaces,’” Kiser said. These spaces are determined with a purpose in mind and tailored to the owner’s needs and desires: a Zen space, a cooking space or outdoor fun. When planning these spaces, one must factor in kids, dogs, deer and flowering plants.

Matching the right plant to the right place is the mantra of many gardeners and growers. To find the right match, homeowners must know their climate zone, Kiser said.

“The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently updated their plant hardiness map,” said David Lowenstein, consumer horticulture supervising extension educator at the Michigan State University Macomb County Extension Office. “Now everyone is in zone 6 in the Detroit metro area.”

“What the zone information describes is the average minimum winter temperature. Zone 6A, the average temperature is minus 10 degrees Fahrenheit to minus 5 degrees Fahrenheit,” Lowenstein said. “That means the plants can survive if temperatures get to minus 10 degrees.”

Combining the right plant with the right soil can yield thriving results. Common types of soil are clay, sand and loam, according to Lowenstein.

“We do tend to have a lot of clay soil in our area,” Lowenstein said about the soil in Macomb and Oakland counties.

The soil types can vary in this area depending on how close you are to a body of water, according to Lowenstein.

“Streams have been channeled, and they’re now underground,” Lowenstein said. “Where your house is now could have once been a wetland or had a stream nearby, and that can impact the soil type.”

The right plant for the right place is as simple as a couple of clicks of the mouse, according to Kiser.

Outdoor living spaces are growing in popularity. Spending time outdoors can decrease stress and anxiety.

Photo by Rebecca Finneran

Outdoor

from page 6A

Homeowners can do research on the internet into the kind of soil they have and what plants are optimal in that environment. The MSU Extension Office also has soil testers that give the nutrient composition of the soil. The testers are available in the office or online for purchase. For more information, see homesoiltest.msu.edu.

Kiser created an outdoor office during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to enjoy it today as it draws colorful migrating birds, butterflies and a fox.

“The office has turned into a bit of an interaction with nature,” Kiser said. “It’s a disturbance I like.”

“Whatever you have, work with it.” Kiser said. That can include everything from a potted plant on a terrace to sprawling acres with plants, bushes, flowers, fruit trees and vegetables.

A beautiful outdoor garden can attract unwanted visitors. Deer love tender young plants and flowers. According to Lowenstein, it is difficult to keep the deer away completely unless there is a high fence or other barrier.

Deer typically avoid holly and ornamental grasses, according to Lowenstein. Catmint also deters deer with its fragrant scent and fuzzy leaves. Deer usually do not eat plants with hairy leaves like lamb’s ear.

Lowenstein suggests covering new plants and flowers with a cage to keep the deer away, at least until the new plants have been in the ground a month or two.

A lush green lawn can be a highlight of a beautiful outdoor space.

“Lawns look green when their fertility needs are met,” Lowenstein said. “What I mean by that is, when there is a sufficient amount of nitrogen available to them.”

Fertilizer can add nitrogen to the lawn, but err on the side of caution and do not over-fertilize, Lowenstein said. Slow-release fertilizer can be used less frequently than the fast-release variety, because slowrelease continues to release nutrients.

Although metro Detroit had some unseasonably warm days in February, according to Lowenstein, the time to seed and plant will be in April.

“We could still have days that could bring us freezes, frosts or even snow,” Lowenstein said. “You don’t want to be fooled by Mother Nature and plant too early.”

Now the lawn can be mowed and any debris cleared. In a few weeks, the lawn will be ready to aerate, which involves punching holes into the ground, and to scarify, which creates grooves in the soil for grass seed to penetrate, protecting it from birds, according to Kiser. Kiser said to order plants, hardscapes and pools and arrange for labor now, because they may be more difficult to come by later in the season.

Peek Inside Your Health: Full Body MRI Screenings Unveil Silent Issues Before Symptoms Arise

SOUTHFIELD- Full body MRI clinics have gained national attention lately, as TV personalities publicly share their personal full body scan experiences. One actress credits the scan for saving her life after doctors dismissed her unexplained pain for months. After various tests, including a CT scan, had “unremarkable” results, the pregnant actress became her own advocate, searched out a full body MRI clinic and discovered she had pancreatic cancer. Tanks to early detection the tumor was removed successfully.

As a general rule, when symptoms occur related to cancer, it usually has progressed to stage three or four. Even with annual physicals, there are limitations. Most screenings only

cover about 29% of cancers with 71% occurring outside of where doctors are able to screen. However, full body MRI scans can detect cancer in every organ from the top of the head through the genitals and can detect it very early.

For a long time, full body MRI scans were available only in select areas outside of Michigan, requiring expensive fights like in Vancouver or California. However, this changed when a clinic opened in Southfeld, making these scans available to Metro Detroit residents.

“Our advanced MRI screening can detect cancers very early when they are as small as a pencil eraser and are more easily treatable. If cancer goes undetected, however, it can grow into stage three or stage four with difcult

treatments. We can also identify conditions such as brain, abdominal, chest, and groin aneurysms,” stated the founder of the Southfeld clinic called Bionicc Body Screening.

Te primary focus of Bionicc Body Screening is to deliver peace of mind, ofering a comprehensive and detailed imaging of the body’s internal structures. Te ultimate hope is for excellent health. However, in the event that something is detected, the advanced screening aims to catch any potential issues at their earliest stages. Tis approach ofers the best opportunity for successful treatment outcomes, should the need arise.

Robert B., age 50, opted for a full body scan from Bionicc Body Screening and a very small tumor

was detected. He said, “It saved my life. Teir MRI found a kidney tumor that had been missed by a recent CT scan. I cannot recommend this service more.”

Take the first step to learn more about full body scans by visiting www.BioniccBodyScreening.com and request a free, no obligation Information Kit. Request it today and you’re also guaranteed a copy of their FREE eBook, Catching Cancer Before It’s Too Late! (Tis is a limited time ofer.)

Schedule today at 1-833-BIONICC

0330-2349

MRI machines use magnets and emit no radiation.

TOP: Ornamental grass absorbs rainwater and deters deer.

Photo provided by David Lowenstein ABOVE: “Backyarding” champions the outdoors and creates the spaces for one’s particular needs.

Photo provided by TurfMutt Foundation

Artists invited to design new mural in Rochester Municipal Park

BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com

ROCHESTER — Local artists will have a chance to leave their mark in Rochester Municipal Park this summer.

Through March 29, Rochester’s City Beautiful Commission is inviting artists to submit designs for a four-panel, 4-by-8-foot mural to be hung on the Kiwanis Shelter in the park.

“The City Beautiful Commission is all about making more spaces beautiful and appealing, and we just thought there is a blank canvas there. … Let’s add some fitting art that works with the environment,” said City Beautiful Commission Chair Jeanine Offer Krupp.

Rachel Williams, a member of the City Beautiful Commission, said organizers want as many artist submissions as possible.

“We are mainly targeting professional artists, although everyone is completely welcome to send in their proposal,” she said.

The four panels can each have their respective designs or work together as one cohesive image. All submissions must be submitted via email to cbc@rochester.mi.org by March 29 and must include an artist portfolio highlighting previous mural work and experience; a concept proposal articulating the vision for the mural, emphasizing how it aligns with the theme and enhances the beauty of the Kiwanis shelter; and a budget breakdown detailing how the allocated budget will be utilized.

The eight-member City Beautiful Commission will review all proposals based on “artistic merit, alignment with the theme, and feasibility” to select a few finalists.

“We’re really going to review and see

what style resonates best with the community,” Williams explained. “We’re hoping to look at proposals and have a piece that really represents Rochester’s history, as well as its natural beauty — so a big focus on the natural beauty, the pollinator populations, our beautiful parks and our trees.”

The finalists will be presented to the City Council and the Tree Committee, which will select the winning design.

“We, hopefully, will choose an artist in May or early June, and then the artist can work on the panels throughout the summer, and we can install them in mid to late summer,” Williams said.

The idea is that every two to three years, the mural will be swapped out for another artist’s work, and the previous artist’s work will be returned.

“It’s a great opportunity to be part of encouraging public art in the city of Rochester, and it’s also a great opportunity to really showcase the beauty of Rochester — we have a lot of natural beauty, as well as our wonderful downtown,” Williams said.

The City Beautiful Commission, the Community Foundation of Rochester and Rochester’s Tree Committee have allocated a budget of up to $11,250 for the mural project — $8,000 from the City Beautiful Commission, $2,250 from the Tree Committee and $1,000 from the Community Foundation — including all artist fees, materials and installation costs. The city will purchase the protective coating.

For more information, email the City Beautiful Commission at cbc@rochester. mi.org.

Call Staff Writer Mary Beth Almond at (586) 498-1060.

OU to welcome acclaimed World War II historian Donald L. Miller

ROCHESTER — The 2023-2024 John and Annette Carter History Comes Alive Lecture Series concludes with “Masters of the Air,” a presentation by Professor Donald L. Miller March 13 at Oakland University.

In his 2007 book, “Masters of the Air,” Miller chronicles the history of the American Eighth Air Force in World War II and the story of the young men who flew the bombers that helped bring Nazi Germany to its knees.

The book is the inspiration for the currently streaming Apple TV+ miniseries produced by Gary Goetzman, Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, and recently appeared on the New York Times Bestseller List.

Miller will share insights on the book and the miniseries when he visits OU’s campus at 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 13, in the Oakland Center Banquet Rooms.

His talk is the final installment in Oakland University’s 2023-24 History Comes Alive Series, which is offered by OU’s Department of History and was endowed by John and Annette Carter. This particular presentation was also supported by Mike Bylen in honor of John and Margaret Bylen.

“Don Miller is as big as they come, and we are grateful that (National WWII Museum Board member) Mike Bylen generously made this possible,” said associate professor and OU History Department Chair James Naus in a statement.

Miller is the John Henry MacCracken Emeritus Professor of History at Lafayette College in Pennsylvania and a respected authority on World War II, the Civil War and modern U.S. history.

The event is free, but registration is encouraged. For more information, contact the Department of History at (248) 370-3510 or dipucchio@oakland.edu.

COMMUNITY CANOPY

ROCHESTER — Beginning March 18, Rochester Hills residents can reserve their free trees to plant on their private property at arborday.org/rochesterhills. Trees are on a first-come, firstserved basis. Residents can reserve up to one tree that will be sent by mail. They are expected to care for and plant the tree in the location chosen through the online tool.

SPARKLE NETWORK’S PROM CLOSET TOUR COMES TO TOWN

ROCHESTER — Sparkle Network, a nonprofit charity, is announcing its ninth annual Prom Closet Tour for 2024.

to be 3-8 Suite Utica.

The charity offers a chance to receive a free prom dress to help make it possible to celebrate the special night. This program is for juniors and seniors. Local events will be held 3-8 p.m. March 29 and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. March 30 at T-Tech Solutions in Troy; 3-8 p.m. April 5 at Meadowbrook Center for Learning Differences, 811 Oakwood Drive, Suite 203, in Rochester; and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. April 7 at Front Door Housekeeping in Utica. To make an appointment, visit https://sparklenetwork.org/prom-closet-projecttour-application. Some appointments must be made before March 24.

ROCHESTER AREA YOUTH ASSISTANCE PLANS PANCAKE BREAKFAST

ROCHESTER — The Rochester Area Youth Assistance pancake breakfast will be held 8-11 a.m. March 10 at the Rochester Fire Department, 277 E. Second St. in Rochester. Pancakes, sausages and breakfast beverages will be served. Adult admission costs $10, and children under 12 may enter for $5. For more information, visit raya-mi.org.

ST. BALDRICK’S FOUNDATION HEAD-SHAVING EVENT TO RAISE FUNDS FOR CHILDHOOD CANCER RESEARCH

ROCHESTER — The St. Baldrick’s Irish Festival will be held from 3 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, March 16, and Sunday, March 17, in the city of Rochester to raise funds for lifesaving childhood cancer research. With a goal of raising $60,000, over 50 participants will shave their heads on Fourth Street, west of Main, in downtown Rochester to support the foundation’s mission to fund the best research to find cures and better treatments for kids with cancer. As the largest charity funder of childhood cancer research grants, the St. Baldrick’s Foundation is leading the charge to Conquer Kids’ Cancer. For more information, visit www.stbaldricks.org.

ROCHESTER UNIVERSITY’S ANNUAL FUNDRAISER TO FEATURE NEW YORK TIMES BEST-SELLING AUTHOR BOB GOFF

ROCHESTER — Rochester University’s 53rd annual Partnership Dinner, sponsored by Chief Financial Credit Union, will feature New York Times best-selling author Bob Goff April 20 at the Royal Park Hotel, located in downtown Rochester. Doors open at 6 p.m.; dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m.

Goff is the author of “Love Does,” “Everybody Always,” “Dream Big” and “Undistracted.” He is the host of the “Dream Big” podcast and “The Writing Room,” a podcast that helps listeners go from the first draft to a published book. Goff is an attorney and the founder of Love Does, a nonprofit human rights organization operating globally.

“Bob’s message of loving others unconditionally and making a difference in God’s world is exactly what we are trying to teach our students at Rochester University. We are excited to hear from him as we come together to raise funds for student scholarships,” said Luke Fleer, the vice president of development and alumni relations at Rochester University.

The Partnership Dinner helps generate funding for student scholarships and is the institution’s largest fundraiser each year. Tickets cost $200 for adults and $150 for alumni. Sponsorship opportunities, tickets and more information can be found at RochesterU.edu/pd.

Presentation

from page 1A

staff, families and the community safe, adding that age-appropriate discussions about digital citizenship take place across all grade levels so students can safely and thoughtfully learn, create and participate online.

“We are truly grateful for our partnership with the Rochester Area Youth Assistance, which enhances learning through quality programs and services, such as the Digital Safety and Mindfulness event,” Fragomeni said in a statement.

Rochester-area community members ages 12 and older are invited to attend the free Digital Safety & Mindfulness presentation 6-7:30 p.m. March 19 in the cafeteria at Hart Middle School, 6500 Sheldon Road. Registration is not needed.

Attendees will hear from Richard Guerry, of the Institute for Responsible Online and Cellphone Communication, who has written multiple cyber safety books and has been a featured speaker at many national and international conferences.

Many people, Guerry said, don’t realize that online tools have eliminated space and time.

“They give you instant knowledge, instant communication and instant permanence,” he said.

Guerry will share tips on preventing cyber cruelty; safe communication in gaming, public databases and digital transparency; preventing abuse of current and future apps; poor social media and oversharing behaviors; use of wearable tech; and many other cyber issues.

“The entire program is to help parents and students understand the tools and apps will always change, but the mindset we apply to the

power of that tool is going to matter. … So if we can help our kids develop skills and help them understand the power of their tools and, most importantly, through practice and time, install a thought system to help them use those tools responsibly, they can do extraordinary things. It’s not about keeping them away from technology; it’s about helping them harness the power of technology to use it to open the windows of opportunity,” Guerry said.

Rochester Area Youth Assistance is a prevention-based nonprofit organization whose goal is to strengthen youth and families in the Rochester community. Services and programs are available at no cost or a reduced cost to school-age youth and families who reside in the Rochester Community Schools district.

For more information about RAYA, email raya@rochester.k12.mi.us or call (248) 6563558.

Photo provided by Richard Guerry Richard Guerry, of the Institute for Responsible Online and Cellphone Communication, will give a presentation to the community on cybersafety March 19.

SPOTLIGHT ON HOMES FURNITURE BANK PUTS

BY K. MICHELLE MORAN kmoran@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — Spring — the season of renewal — is a popular time for people to remodel or redecorate their homes.

But what many may not realize is the old dresser or couch they no longer want could make life substantially better for a local family in need.

The nonprofit Furniture Bank of Southeastern Michigan, which provides household basics like beds, dining tables and chairs to vulnerable metro Detroiters who are rebuilding their lives, is facing a serious shortage of furnishings at a time when demand for these items is spiking.

“Donations are down,” said Furniture Bank Board President Wanda Van Haitsma, of Redford. “We have about 180 families waiting for beds and other furniture, and that’s a big number.”

Furniture Bank of Southeastern Michigan Executive Director Robert Boyle, of Grosse Pointe Woods, said that’s three times the number of families waiting for furniture at this time in 2021. At the same time, furniture donations have dropped; Boyle said that in 2022, they went on 4,600 pickups, but in 2023, there were only 3,800 pickups.

“At a time of high inflation, it would seem people would rather sit on their current couch than buy a new one,” Boyle said.

That same high inflation disproportionately hurts people on the lower end of the income spectrum. More than 80% of the people the Furniture Bank serves have incomes of $20,000 or less, and most are families with children.

“Now it’s even more difficult to cover basics like a bed for a child or a dining table to share a meal at,” Boyle said.

The Furniture Bank will collect essential items in good condition from homes across

See FURNITURE BANK on page 16A

ABOVE: Families served by the Furniture Bank are happier and healthier because they have a comfortable place to sleep and have a meal together.

LEFT: Over the last year, the Furniture Bank of Southeastern Michigan has supplied more than 800 children in metro Detroit with beds, including Nehemiah, of Pontiac, who’s thrilled with his. Photos provided by the Furniture Bank of Southeastern Michigan

The Exterior Painters Celebrate 20 Years of Transforming Properties, Neighborhoods

Nothing transforms a property and makes it shine brighter than a fresh coat of paint. It’s simply the best and most cost-effective investment you can make for your home draped in the colors of yesterday.

The Exterior Painters have been revitalizing properties for 20 years.

“We specialize in just exterior painting, and the reason why we do that is we believe that repetition is the mother of all skill,” said owner Brian Scott. “For 20 years, that’s all we’ve been doing is outside work. When it comes to that, we do wood replacement and siding replacement. It makes us the perfect fit for homeowners who don’t want to re-side their whole house.”

The Exterior Painters replace damaged siding and boards as needed, but they’re not looking to push for a full siding replacement.

“It gets people by another 10 years and transforms the look of the house, bringing it to the next color trends of today,” Scott said.

“Another thing we do that makes us unique, we have a full-time color consultant,” Scott added. “For most people, that’s the hardest, most stressful part, choosing what color they want. Our consultant comes out and

meets with the homeowners and gives them an idea of what the new color trends are so they can make a good color choice that complements their landscaping, brickwork and architectural features.”

The Exterior Painters also specialize in brick staining.

“A lot of younger people are buying houses. We’re taking it from grandma’s house of the ’50s, ’60s or ’70s and bringing it to that HGTV look,” Scott said.

Power washing the siding — and for an additional charge, soft washing the roof if needed — can also make a big difference in terms of curb appeal.

charge, soft washing the roof if needed — can also transformed through fresh paint,

Scott said his crews often see their work spread from house to house in a neighborhood as the properties are transformed through fresh paint, siding repairs and much-needed washing.

you’re getting a bigger bang for your buck.”

It’s a win for everyone, from the crews The Exterior Painters employ and pay well to the homeowners who see their neighborhoods transformed. The company paints 30 houses a week on average in Macomb, Oakland, Wayne and Livingston counties, and boasts a five-star Google review average.

“With us you’re buying certainty. We don’t ask for a large deposit, and you don’t have to worry about anyone running off with your deposit,” Scott said. “We stand by our work. We provide a warranty and proven results by taking care of everybody in the community. We’re Nextdoor’s No. 1 preferred contractor in Rochester two years in a row. It’s that certainty factor. You know what you’re going

“It’s the cheapest home improvement you can do without breaking the bank,” Scott said.

“It’s the cheapest home

“Compared to other home improvements,

to get.”

The Exterior Painters are located at 2365 Avon Industrial Drive in Rochester Hills. To request a quote or for more information, call (248) 844-8888.

Furniture Bank

from page 14A

metro Detroit at no charge, if these items can be placed in a garage or on a porch, or they’ll charge a flat fee of $75 to collect any number of essentials from inside the home. Essential items include mattresses, box springs, dressers, end tables, nightstands, coffee tables, sofas/loveseats (excluding reclining sofas and sofa beds), dining/ kitchen tables (excluding glass or heavy marble), dining/kitchen chairs (in sets of at least two) and living room chairs. The Furniture Bank will also collect as essentials up to five bags or boxes of smaller housewares, such as towels, pots, pans, silverware, lamps, bedding and other basics; they cannot accept clothing.

Because there’s such a serious need for mattresses and box springs in good condition, the Furniture Bank is currently offering to pick up these items for free, whether they’re inside or outside the house.

For essential items that are structurally damaged, stained, torn or badly worn, they will haul these items away for $100 per item, whether they’re inside or outside of the home.

For fees ranging from $100 to $125 per item, the Furniture Bank will also pick up nonessential items from inside or outside of homes, including desks, bookshelves, armoires, china

cabinets, buffets, sofa beds, reclining sofas, entertainment centers and treadmills. Proceeds from fees support the work of the Furniture Bank and enable them to hire professional movers to safely remove furniture.

“It’s such a great nonprofit,” Van Haitsma said. “We’re providing furniture and beds for people who are trying to get back on their feet.”

In some cases, the people helped by the Furniture Bank are individuals who are moving from a homeless shelter into their own apartment or home. In other cases, they’re people starting over after escaping from an abusive relationship.

Boyle said their clients are excited to leave shelters for their own dwelling — until they realize they were more comfortable in the shelter because, at least there, they had a bed.

“It’s stressful,” Boyle said of sleeping on the floor. “It’s not comfortable. It’s not good for your mental or physical health.”

Boyle said they’re trying to provide people with a stable, dignified life. Studies show there are higher rates of attention deficit disorder and obesity in children who don’t get adequate sleep.

“It’s really important that families get what they need when they need it and they don’t go through any more distress,” Boyle said.

To donate or for more information, visit www.furniture-bank.org or call (248) 332-1300.

Call Staff Writer K. Michelle Moran at (586) 498-1047.

Photo provided by the Furniture Bank of Southeastern Michigan Janith Bryson — one of the 2,000 local individuals and families helped last year by the Furniture Bank — can now have visitors because she has furniture.

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Hills Naturalist Lauren Oxlade pours boiled-down syrup for the participants

ment

Photos by Patricia O’Blenes

Rochester

from page 3A

University and Water Street into 30 luxury apartment units. A portion of the former historic elevator building has been retained on-site and will be turned into a clubhouse and historical information visitor center.

“The units are going to be 3,000-squarefeet and it’s a bit expensive, but it’s going to be a beautiful project right downtown with saving our historical elevator,” Bikson said.

A new two-story 28,000-square-foot mixed-use building has been approved by City Council as a special project by Frank Rewold and Sons at 333 E. Third St. The ground floor tenants will include a restaurant and a market, with leasable office space on the second floor. The building, Bikson said, was designed to complement the existing historic Mills building on the site.

Riverfront Place Apartments, at the intersection of First and Diversion, will be a multifamily residential development. The complex will have 134 units in a five-story building and three, three-story townhousestyle buildings adjacent to the Clinton River Trail and within walking distance of downtown.

“This is an area that was really kind of underdeveloped,” Bikson noted. “It’s an industrial area, and now it’s going to be an exciting living complex, right on the Clinton River Trail, so it’s a really nice place, and we think it’s going to be really nice to add to our downtown.”

Over on Parkdale, Par Pharmaceutical — the largest employer in Rochester — is in the final stages of completing a new building

addition of nearly 10,000 square feet on their site, which was approved a few years ago.

“They are spending tens and tens of millions of dollars expanding their facility … and we are very excited about that,” said Bikson.

The city is also looking forward to utilizing recently approved grant money totaling $1 million for two new all-access play areas for barrier-free recreation experiences. One area will replace the existing Tot Lot near Ludlow, and the other is being created within the Memorial Grove area, along with expanding the park pathway near the butterfly garden and sundial.

But that’s not all. The Planning Commission has also been busy reviewing many new residential projects — on what Bikson said is some of the last remaining open land in the city.

Underneath the bridge near the entrance to town, developers are hoping to open luxury upscale apartments called The Diversions.

“They are almost through the planning phase, and we think that is going to be an exciting project for our downtown,” Bikson said.

Also under the bridge, developers are hoping to build luxury apartments called The Preserve.

“It sounds like we are going to have all kinds of stuff under the bridge, but there is actually more land down there than you think — 5 to 6 acres. There was some industrial (use), and it has some brownfield issues, but we are going to get that cleaned up and really make that area, which now is maybe a little bit of an eyesore, into what we consider an excellent part of our com-

munity,” Bikson said

Another big project that is just coming to the Planning Commission is what is currently being called the Paint Creek Townhomes development at 704 Woodward, over by the Solaronics, across the street from Dillman & Upton.

“They are looking at putting 45 luxury condos that we think are going to fit right on the trail. They are very environmentally friendly, and we think it’s going to be an exciting project,” Bikson said.

The city of Rochester is also collaborating with the Rochester Community Schools district to save the district’s historical administration building at 501 W. University Drive. Bikson said the city of Rochester hopes to ask Rochester voters this fall if they would support a millage to help the city save the structure.

“We have approached the Rochester school board and talked about what we can do to save this historic building and do a pretty neat project. … We met with the school board a couple of times, and we think that we have a very exciting project in this

building that has a lot of history and a lot of respect in our town,” he explained.

RCS interim Superintendent John Silveri confirmed that the city and the RCS Board of Education are in preliminary discussions.

“The hope of the board, and of the district, has been to find a way to keep the building intact — to be able to sell the building, but to do so in a way that the building wouldn’t disappear. A lot of folks love that old building. There is some historical value to it and, first and foremost, we would love to see that happen,” Silveri said. “It’s very preliminary — we are in the very early stages of dialogue — but it’s an exciting prospect to think that we may be able to collaborate with the city of Rochester in a way that would benefit the city, benefit the school district and preserve that building for many, many years to come.”

For more information on any of the projects, contact the city of Rochester at (248) 733-3700.

Call Staff Writer Mary Beth Almond at (586) 498-1060.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR PROPOSALS

Rochester Community Schools

Rochester Community Schools will be accepting proposals for the following: 24.04 WINDOW SHADES AND FILM (SECURITY GRANT) 24.05 CUSTODIAL SERVICES (GENERAL FUND)

Bid documents may be obtained from the RCS purchasing website at https://www.rochester.k12.mi.us/about-us/departments/purchasing and BidNet Direct at https://www.bidnetdirect.com.

Bid Due Date: All required Bids, forms and pricing shall be submitted electronically on BidNet Direct (https://www.bidnetdirect.com) no later than 12:00 p.m., local time, Tuesday, March 26, 2024.

Bid Bond: 5% Bid Bond naming Rochester Community Schools as the obligated, or Certifed Check made payable to Rochester Community Schools, required. Bid Bonds shall be issued by a company licensed to do business in the State of Michigan.

Disclosure Statements: Each bid proposal must be accompanied by a sworn and notarized statement disclosing any familial relationship that exists between owner or any employee of bidder and any member of Board of Education or Superintendent of Rochester Community Schools. Each bid proposal must also include a signed Iran Economic Sanctions Affdavit. The Board of Education will not accept a bid proposal that does not include this sworn and notarized familial disclosure statement and the Iran Economic Sanctions.

The Board of Education reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids, either in whole or in part; to award contract to other than the low bidder; to waive any irregularities and/or informalities; and in general to make awards in any manner deemed to be in the best interests of the owner.

Signed: Jennifer Fickel, RCS Purchasing Supervisor

Published: Rochester Post 03/07/2024

0443-2410

0306-2406

RCS

from page 5A

land, second homes and commercial personal property, including business equipment and furnishings. The tax is not collected on owned primary residences; however, it is required to be approved by the school district’s voters. All school districts in Michigan must levy 18 mills on non-homestead property to receive their full foundation allowance from the state.

Although the Feb. 27 ballot language asked for a renewal of 18.5004 mills, along with an increase of 0.5 mill, only 18 mills will be levied, Silveri explained. District officials said the total 1.0004 mills above 18 mills will be used to offset potential Headlee rollbacks, which can reduce the millage rate to adjust for inflation.

For Rochester Community Schools,

this levy ensures the district maintains its current full per-pupil revenue of $9,608. If the millage proposal did not pass, officials said, RCS per-pupil funding would have fallen to $8,060, for a loss of approximately $24.5 million per year or 10.7% of current budgeted general fund revenues.

The district general fund covers things like salaries and benefits, safety and security, custodial and grounds, supplies, transportation, athletics and more.

“As we look to the future, we will continue to be strategic in our efforts to be good stewards of district revenue. Each year we plan a budget that is sustainable, promotes growth, is open and transparent, and supports quality student programs and services,” Matthew McDaniel, assistant superintendent of business operations, said in a statement.

Since the passage of Proposal A in 1994, the district has sought approval of

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Rochester Community Schools – 2020 Sinking Fund

Project: Rochester Community Schools

Description: Bid Package 32 – Pool Filter Replacement Re-Bid

Architect: Ghafari 17101 Michigan Ave., Dearborn, MI 48126

Construction Manager: Frank Rewold and Sons Inc. 303 E. Third St., Suite 300, Rochester, MI 48307

Estimators: Mike Gagnon (248) 618-0220

mgagnon@frankrewold.com

Questions addressed ONLY to Mike Gagnon

Bid Documents: Bid documents including bid forms may be obtained from Frank Rewold and Sons Portal at: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/7i6vxhsd9w45k7v8076an/h?rlkey=xz1oekmtx2vzhr03rzzhkgca3&dl=0

Bid documents will be available on or after March 12, 2024

Non-Mandatory Prebid Walk-Through: 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 19, 2024 - Meet at Rochester High School, 1361 Walton Blvd, Rochester Hills, Michigan 48309. Meet at the main entrance to the building. Meeting will move to Adams HS after Rochester High School.

Bid Due Date: 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Bids will only be accepted on forms provided. Proposal forms must be in a sealed envelope, mailed or delivered in person prior by 2:00 p.m. EST on the due date to:

Attn: Jennifer Fickel, Rochester Community Schools C/O Frank Rewold and Sons Inc. 303 E. Third St., Suite 300, Rochester, MI 48307

2:00 p.m. Public Bid Opening: Frank Rewold and Sons Inc.

Tuesday, March 26, 2024 303 E. Third St., Suite 300, Rochester, MI 48307 4th Floor Mezzanine

Labor and Material and Performance Bond: In accordance with Michigan Compiled Laws Section 129.201, successful contractor(s) must obtain Performance and Payment Bonds for any Bid Category exceeding $50,000. The Performance and Payment Bonds shall be in an amount equal to the contract amount. The Performance and Payment Bonds shall be for the protection of Rochester Community Schools and Frank Rewold and Son Inc. and shall be executed by

this millage three times, in 1995, 2005 and 2014. The current 10-year millage was approved by voters in 2014.

For more information, visit the district

website at www.rochester.k12.mi.us/aboutus/millage2024.

Call Staff Writer Mary Beth Almond at (586) 498-1060.

CITY OF ROCHESTER

2024 BOARD OF REVIEW MEETINGS

Notice is hereby given that the Board of Review of the City of Rochester, Oakland County, Michigan, will convene remotely on the following dates, by appointment, for the purpose of reviewing and correcting the 2024 assessments of real and personal property within the City of Rochester.

CONTACT THE OAKLAND COUNTY EQUALIZATION DEPARTMENT FOR AN APPOINTMENT.

1-888-350-0900 Ext. 85584 248-285-8618

MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2024 9:00 A.M. TO 12:00 NOON 1:30 P.M. TO 5:00 P.M.

TUESDAY, MARCH 12, 2024 1:30 P.M. TO 5:00 P.M.

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2024 6:00 P.M. TO 9:00 P.M.

**Letter Appeals of Protest may be submitted by March 11, 2024 to: Treasurer, City of Rochester, 400 Sixth St., Rochester. MI 48307. (248-733-3700) **

Published: 03/07/2024 Rochester Post

0024-2410

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Rochester Community Schools – 2020 Sinking Fund

Project: Rochester Community Schools

Description: Rochester High School Tennis Court Drainage

Engineer: PEA Group 7927 Nemco Way, Suite 115, Brighton, MI 48116

Construction Manager: Frank Rewold and Sons Inc. 303 E. Third St., Suite 300, Rochester, MI 48307

Estimators: Mike Gagnon (248) 618-0220 mgagnon@frankrewold.com

Questions addressed ONLY to Mike Gagnon

Bid Documents: Bid documents including bid forms may be obtained from Frank Rewold and Sons Portal at: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/gfy0ftfytp1fcr09lvem5/h?rlkey=pdgazzthedfq2hoo33v4vb3mq&dl=0

Bid documents will be available on or after March 12, 2024

Non-Mandatory Prebid Walk-Through: 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 19, 2024 - Meet at Rochester High School, 1361 Walton Blvd, Rochester Hills, Michigan 48309. Meet at the tennis courts.

Bid Due Date: 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 26, 2024 Bids will only be accepted on forms provided. Proposal forms must be in a sealed envelope, mailed or delivered in person prior by 2:00 p.m. EST on the due date to:

Attn: Jennifer Fickel, Rochester Community Schools

C/O Frank Rewold and Sons Inc. 303 E. Third St., Suite 300, Rochester, MI 48307 2:00 p.m. Public Bid Opening: Frank Rewold and Sons Inc. Tuesday, March 26, 2024 303 E. Third St., Suite 300, Rochester, MI 48307 4th Floor Mezzanine

Labor and Material and Performance Bond: In accordance with Michigan Compiled Laws Section 129.201, successful contractor(s) must obtain Performance and Payment Bonds for any Bid Category exceeding $50,000. The Performance and Payment Bonds shall be in an amount equal to the contract amount. The Performance and Payment Bonds shall be for the protection of Rochester Community Schools and Frank Rewold and Son Inc. and shall be executed by a surety company authorized to do business in the state of Michigan and be listed in Federal Register or have an AM Best Rating of B+ or better. All bonds to be dual obligee bonds to Rochester Community Schools and Frank Rewold and Son Inc.

Prevailing Wage Rates: Not required

Bid Bond: 5% bid security required. Bid bonds are required, however, certifed or cashier checks are acceptable for bids under $50,000.

Nonexempt:

Published: Rochester Post 03/07/2024 0442-2410

notarized disclosure statement or the Iran Economic Sanctions.

0441-2410

Published: Rochester Post 03/07/2024

CRIME WATCH

Man flees shopping center after reportedly photographing young girls

ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies responded to The Village of Rochester Hills in the 200 block of North Adams Road for the report of a suspicious person at 3:42 p.m. Jan. 28.

Employees from two stores told police that a man, later found to be a 27-year-old man from Macomb, entered their stores, causing employees and patrons to feel uncomfortable by his lurking behavior. The suspect appeared to be following young girls around and taking photographs of their buttocks.

Mall security personnel were notified and confronted the individual suspect on the property. Once confronted, the suspect fled the scene in a vehicle.

Deputies investigated and thoroughly checked the mall and surrounding area for the suspect and vehicle, with negative results. Deputies located the suspect’s phone number and attempted to contact him, with negative results. Security provided video of the suspect’s actions on the property, and a report was taken.

Attempted Jeep theft caught on camera

OAKLAND TOWNSHIP — Deputies responded to the 100 block of Birchhill Drive in reference to an attempted auto theft in progress at 6:25 a.m. Feb. 15.

A 63-year-old man from Oakland Township said there was someone visible on a security camera attempting to steal a 2020 Jeep Trackhawk.

The suspect, a man, fled prior to the deputies arriving.

Deputies met with the complainant, who stated his daughter saw a man on their cameras with the hood up on the Jeep in the driveway, attempting to start the vehicle.

The man fled down the driveway while the complainant was still on the line with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office.

There was a rear side window broken out that appears to be how the suspect gained entry to the vehicle.

The owner of the Jeep had a sophisticated security system on the vehicle that thwarted the attempts to start the Jeep, according to reports. Police are investigating.

Drunken driver arrested

ROCHESTER HILLS — A Rochester officer was on patrol in the area of Walnut and Second streets and observed a dark-colored SUV fail to stop at the stop sign and

proceed southbound on Walnut at approximately 9:10 p.m. Feb. 17.

The officer conducted a traffic stop and made contact with the driver, who admitted to drinking two glasses of wine.

The officer also observed signs of impairment. The driver failed all field sobriety tasks and was offered a preliminary breath test, which resulted in 0.16% blood alcohol contact. The driver was placed under arrest and was transported to the police station. The driver was given a chemical breath test, which resulted in a 0.17% blood alcohol content. The driver was lodged until sober and was released with a citation for a court date.

Construction site broken into, wire stolen

ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to a construction site in the 2900 block of Hamlin Road on a report that a gate was open, with the padlock cut off, at 4:23 a.m. Jan. 27. A storage container with large rolls of wire inside was broken into, and an unknown amount of wire was taken. Detectives are investigating.

Jacket, wallet stolen from unlocked car

ROCHESTER HILLS — A 66-yearold man from Rochester Hills told police his wallet and jacket were stolen out of his vehicle in the 3100 block of Goldenrod.

The resident reported that the vehicle had been left unlocked, and the items were taken sometime overnight Jan. 27. The victim’s credit cards were used at various stores in Westland.

Woman loses $14K in scam

ROCHESTER HILLS — A 71-yearold resident who lives in the 1800 block of Grace went to the police substation to report she had been defrauded at 3:42 p.m. Jan. 30.

She told deputies that while she was looking at her computer, the speakers came on and told her to not power down the computer. A pop-up came on her screen that also told her not to power down her computer. The pop-up then told her to call a phone number and provided a case number. The woman called the number, and they told her they needed to take over her computer to avoid her being hacked. The person convinced her to take out over $14,000 in cash and convert it to bitcoin at a local bitcoin ATM.

The woman contacted her bank after the incident, and the bank told her she was defrauded. The bank was unsuccessful in getting the money returned to the victim. Detectives are investigating.

CONTINUED on page 23A

CRIME WATCH

Drunken driver calls police after concerned citizen blocks her in, takes car keys

ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to Dequindre and South Boulevard for a caller who stated her husband had blocked her in the roadway and taken her keys at 12:19 a.m. Jan. 31.

When deputies arrived, they learned that a person had observed the caller driving east in the westbound lanes on South Boulevard and blocked the vehicle after the driver went off the road. The witness also took the keys from the ignition. The witness was a concerned civilian and not the driver’s husband.

Deputies spoke to the driver and determined she was intoxicated. She failed sobriety tests and blew a 0.208% on a preliminary breath test. The driver, a 44-year-old resident of Rochester Hills, was arrested for operating while intoxicated and was lodged at the Oakland County Jail.

Man’s boss arrested after reportedly breaking into employee’s home, assaulting him

ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies responded to the 100 block of Fountainbleau Court for an assault and home invasion at 7:47 a.m. Feb. 4. A man told police he had texted his boss, who pays a portion of his rent directly out of his landscaping paycheck, to let the boss know there was a text about owing the rent. The boss then allegedly went to the man’s home, kicked in

the front door and assaulted him. Deputies located the suspect, a 53-year-old man from Rochester Hills, a few houses away from the victim’s house, and he was arrested for home invasion and assault and battery. He was lodged at the Oakland County Jail.

Man arrested for possession of meth, stolen property, narcotics paraphernalia

ROCHESTER HILLS — A deputy on routine patrol heading northbound on Adams Road approaching Walton observed a gray Volkswagen sedan with no license plate at 2:12 a.m. Feb. 5.

The deputy initiated a traffic stop and investigated both occupants. The driver, 36, of Pontiac, was found to be in possession of open intoxicants, and the passenger, 25, of Waterford, was found to be wanted for operating under the influence of drugs in Waterford.

The driver gave deputies consent to search the vehicle, and they discovered an unknown narcotic-cutting agent in the driver’s door and a clear baggie of suspected methamphetamines in the center console. Also located in the vehicle were 20 bottles of various brands of stolen liquor and an assortment of stolen unopened Pokémon trading cards.

The driver was housed at the Oakland County Jail, and additional narcotics paraphernalia was found in the transport vehicle upon exit.

Man caught on video trying to break into business

ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies responded to a cafe in the 100 block of West Auburn Road on a report of a burglary alarm

at 4:49 a.m. Feb. 6.

The alarm company reported back door motion, with the keyholder en route. Deputies arrived at the scene and visually checked the perimeter, observing fresh pry marks on the rear door.

The keyholder arrived, and deputies checked the interior of the business for suspects, with negative results. Nothing appeared out of place. Surveillance cameras captured images at the rear door, revealing an unknown man wearing a grayish/green jacket and black skull cap attempting to pry the rear door open with a crowbar, which set the alarm off.

The suspect fled the scene on foot. Deputies checked the entire surrounding area for the suspect, with negative results.

Drunken man cited for disorderly conduct after reportedly cutting trail sign

ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies responded to the Paint Creek Trail, near Tienken and Kings Cove, for a person damaging a trail board sign at 4:58 a.m. Feb. 9. The caller, who wished to remain anonymous, indicated there was a subject cutting the plexiglass area of the trail sign.

and the suspect, a 27-year-old man from Rochester Hills. The suspect was intoxicated, carrying a box cutter and open alcohol. The suspect did not admit to damaging any property. The suspect was cited for disorderly conduct and was transported back to his residence.

— Mary Beth Almond

Deputies located the damaged property Provided as

To

Parks

from page 3A

officials are hoping more residents will begin to use after it’s reimagined.

“The city’s first dog park is being planned there, (along with) boardwalks, playgrounds and everything innovative. Think Innovation Hills, in the way we have developed that, with an attention to detail and an attention to folks of all abilities and resources,” Barnett said.

Over at Bloomer Park, a 200-acre park located at 345 John R Road in Rochester Hills, Barnett said residents could soon see “a reimagined river interface along with skywalks for people to visit and view the natural landscape and wildlife.”

Spencer Park, located at 3701 John R Road, will also see some updates over the next couple of years.

“We’re talking about bringing people into the lake, or unique experiences to get them over the water and interfacing in new and engaging ways to create new places to play and experience family moments,” Barnett said.

City officials say the four park projects will offer residents renewed opportunities for exercise, exploration and connection with nature.

For more information about any of the projects, call the city of Rochester Hills at (248) 656-4600.

Call Staff Writer Mary Beth Almond at (586) 498-1060.

Parking from page 1A

Rouhib said the city provided a 30-day grace period for fines to allow drivers to get used to the new meter enforcement times.

Rochester offers a number of parking options — including up to three-hour metered on-street and alley parking; up to 12-hour metered off-street parking; and two parking platforms, which are free for the first hour.

Parking meter fines were also recently increased from $10 to $20. If the fines are not paid within 14 days, the fine jumps to $50 — a rise from the previous $40.

“These fines are consistent with other communities that offer metered parking and will help offset some of the expenditures involved in the parking program,” Rouhib said.

Prior to the pandemic, the parking fund was trending toward self-funding, according to city documents, but as parking revenues declined in fiscal year 2021, the Downtown Development Authority ended up having to contribute $508,118 into the parking fund. In fiscal year 2022, an additional $695,837 of the city’s American Rescue Plan Act funds were used to offset parking revenue losses and stabilize the fund.

To cover the bond debt and ongoing, day-to-day expenses, both the city’s Parking Advisory Committee and the City Council said they would like revenues over expenses to accumulate an additional $100,000 yearly to cover the expected large maintenance costs — for things like gate technology, deck maintenance, parking lot resurfacing and more — that will occur every two or three years.

“You don’t know in seven years (that)

you will have to spend $400,000 to replace the guts of these meters because 2G now becomes 5G,” City Manager Nik Banda said. “Chief George inherited the next level here, which is the actual infrastructure inside the moving parts of the parking structure.”

The Rochester City Council approved the parking system changes in late 2023, although they did not go into effect until January of this year, with a grace period for fines.

Sometime this March, both of the city’s parking decks will receive new entrance and exit kiosks and arm barriers. The new technology that is built within the kiosks — which includes a touch-screen to get tickets, a scanner to use when exiting and a credit card-only payment option — will help increase traffic flow and reduce monthly maintenance costs, according to Rouhib. The cost savings can then be used to upgrade the decks, when needed.

Most of the issues that cause backups have to do with coins or currency jamming the system.

“There’s nothing worse than waiting in line for someone to shove a token in a machine and it gets stuck and traffic is backed up,” Rouhib said. “I betcha 90% of the issues at the structures — and we do have a lot of issues — is the jammed machines from the coins, from the dollar bills, especially $10 bills.”

The move to credit card-only payments shouldn’t be too much of a change for structures users, he added, because approximately 82% of them are already using credit cards to pay for their parking fees.

“Times have changed, and we have to adapt to those changes,” said Rouhib.

Call Staff Writer Mary Beth Almond at (586) 498-1060.

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes City officials recently made some changes to the parking system in an effort to make enough revenue to make the system self-sustainable.

Help Wanted General

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CLINTON DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SERVICES SEASONAL EMPLOYEES

Seasonal general laborer positions, $15.00 - $16.00 hourly, no benefits. Successful completion of Civil Service Examination is required, and applicants must meet all requirements set forth in the Employees Civil Service Ordinance. Pre-employment background investigation is required. Interested, applicants must submit application to the Clinton Township Employees Civil Service Commission, 40700 Romeo Plank Rd., Clinton Township, MI 48038 on or before the close of business, Friday, April 12, 2024. The Charter Township of Clinton is an Equal Opportunity Employer, applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, or disability. For further information pertaining to this position or to download employment application please refer to www.clintontownship. com, click on employment.

Staff Engineer – Oracle EBS – Programmer for Rochester Hills, MI to dsgn, supt & mtn Oracle EBS  envmnt, apps & rel IT sltns. Req’s Bachelor’s in C.S.,  Computer, Electrical or Electronics Engineering, or  closely-related fld & 5 yrs progressive post Bachelor’s  exp in IT-related position(s): supt’ing Oracle EBS 12.0  and/or above apps; dsgning & dev’ing custom sltns  on Oracle Applications Framework & JDeveloper;  creating prcdrs, APIs, pkgs, fnctns & triggers; using  Oracle SQL, Oracle PL/SQL & Oracle SQL Loader;  customizing wkflw processes & forms; tuning &  optmz’ing queries; using Oracle BI Publisher & Oracle  Rpts 6i & 10G; wkng w/ Oracle Warehouse Mgmt Sys &  Finan modules, includ Accts Rec, Accts Payable,  Fixed Assets, Gen Ledger, IExpenses, E-Bus Tax,  Approvals Mgmt Engine, Adv Collections, Cash  Mgmt, Cost Mgmt, Funds Capture & Subledger  Acct’ing. Up to 15% US travel req’d. Mail resume to  Wendy Lauzano-Hertz, FANUC America Corporation,  3900 West Hamlin Rd, Rochester Hills, MI 48309. 0249-2408

0384-2410

Program Engineer of Chassis Design Engineering Team is sought by an automotive parts manufacturer in Auburn Hills, MI. Min. Bach’s deg in Mechanical Engg, Engg, or related & 2 yrs of exp in automotive parts dsgn are reqd. Send resume to SL America Corporation (Attn: HR Dept) @ 4375 Giddings Rd., Auburn Hills, MI 48326. 0104-2410

Parks and Rec Part-Time Receptionist/Program Registration Clerk

Send cover letter, resume, & 3 work references to ckasprzak@ oaklandtownship.org

Full details at http://www. oaklandtownship.org/

Help Wanted General EXPERIENCED, Full-Time, Gardening/Landscaping

HelpNeededtoPlant, Weed,andMaintain FlowerGardens. WorkrunsMarch-Dec, Wagesbaseduponexp.

0163-2410

Help Wanted General

Zero Emissions Hydrogen Storage Systems Chief Engineer sought by Faurecia Hydrogen Solutions N.A., Inc. in Auburn Hills, MI. Responsible for leading hydrogen storage system  development team tasked with developing hydrogen pressure vessels that will accelerate zero emission vehicles’ clean transportation revolution. 20% domestic and international travel. Bachelors in mechanical or chemical engineering or closely related field or foreign equivalent degree; Five years’ experience in hydrogen storage systems engineering in the automotive manufacturing industry or related role. Resume to: postingjobs@faurecia.com (Req. 56004) 0236-2410

Program Engineer is sought by an automotive parts manufacturer in Auburn Hills, MI. Min. Bach’s deg in Mechanical Engg, Electrical Engg, or related & 2 yrs-exp of automotive lighting parts dsgn are reqd. Send resume to SL America Corporation @ 4375 Giddings Rd., Auburn Hills, MI 48326. 0131-2410

Help Wanted General

•

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• CAE Specialist - Use ANSA, NASTRAN, LS-Dyna. Create Full vehicle NVH models for NVH CAE Simulations. Worksite location - Bingham Farms, Michigan or client sites throughout U.S. Send resume to: Satyam-Venture Engineering Services Pvt. Ltd., at seethat@satven.com

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MARCH

Leggett during local meeting for American Association of University Women, 3 p.m., Rochester Community House, 816 Ludlow Ave., AAUW@gmail.com

Musical performances: Hear OU Jazz Band, Latin Jazz Ensemble and OU Jazz Combo, 7:30 p.m., Varner Recital Hall on campus of Oakland University, 371 Varner Drive in Rochester, oakland.edu/smtd

MARCH 23

Egg hunts: Learn about types of eggs seen in Michigan, then go on egg hunt, 10-11:30 a.m. or 1-2:30 p.m., for ages 2-10, Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve, 333 N. Hill Circle in Rochester, dinosaurhill.org, (248) 656-0999

• Also Easter Bunny photos, games, face painting, crafts and more, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m, Rochester Avon Recreation Authority, 500 E. Second St., registration required, rararecreation.org

ONGOING

‘A Little More Alive’: Folk-pop musical about two estranged brothers who reunite at childhood home after mother’s funeral, 8 p.m. March 7-9 and 2 p.m.

Nature

Cabin Fever Lecture Series: Learn about “History of Hudson’s Department Store” (March 8), “Troy in the Roaring Twenties” (March 15), “Art of Illustration - Books for Children” (March 22) and “Albert Kahn: The Residences” (March 29), 7-8 p.m., Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm calf barn, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, rochesterhills. org/musprograms

Nature Tales Classic: Story, snack and craft, intended for ages 3-5, 10-11 a.m. every third Thursday of month, Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve, 333 N. Hill Circle in Rochester, dinosaurhill.org

Story & STEAM: For ages 3-5, 10-11 a.m. every second and fourth Friday of month, Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve, 333 N. Hill Circle in Rochester Hills, dinosaurhill.org

Paint Creek Garden Club: Meets 9:30 a.m.-noon every second Friday of month, Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm dairy or calf barn, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, (248) 505-4307

Support groups: Join meetings for alzheimers and dementia caregivers, caring and sharing loss, those with parkinson’s and their care partners, and those who are visually impaired, OPC Social and Activity Center, 650 Letica Drive in Rochester, OPCcenter.org