City Council Meeting Video and Updates for October 19, 2020

City Council met on Monday night. Items included the holiday parade, parking, and an election update.

  • Council did not approve the holiday parade and tree lighting over Covid safety concerns. There is interest in something like a virtual event instead.
  • Approved renaming Oxford Towers Park to Friends Park in honor of the work the Friends of Berkley Parks and Recreation has done for the city.
  • Approved Gregory Need as an outside hearing officer to review Marijuana License appeals. At least 24 applicants appealed their score. The hearing officer will make a written report for council who will make the final determination on the appeals, likely in November or December.
  • Approved the first reading of an ordinance to allow the Planning Commission to reduce parking requirements up to 10% under specific circumstances.
  • Berkley was recognized for receiving Main Street America Accreditation, 1 of 12 in the county to receive that at the Select Level. This provides resources and funding for small businesses in the city.
  • Fresh Collective Kitchen & Market at the former Holy Cannoli location was recognized for receiving a Genisys Credit Union Spirit of Main Street Grant through the Main Street Oakland County program.

An update from the City Clerk

  • 6,748 absentee ballots have been sent (about 50% of registered voters).
  • About 3,200 have been returned.
  • Completed ballots can be dropped off in person at City Hall or at the drop box at the door at City Hall (under the blue awning) or at the Community Center.
  • The Clerk's office is open for election business during normal business hours plus Saturday, October 24 from 9am to 3pm and Saturday, October 31 from 8:30am to 4:30pm.
  • All 7 precincts will be open on election day from 7am to 8pm.
  • You can reach the clerk at 248-658-3310 or [email protected] or see berkleymich.org/vote

The full meeting packet.