A2 City News Community Newsletter

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A2 City News is emailed to newsletter subscribers by the City of Ann Arbor. Please share comments via email o​​r call 734.794.6110, extension 41105. T​he current A2 City News community newsletter articles appear below in plain-text format.

​A2 City Ne​​w​​s​, July 20​25​​​​​​ (PDF), Volume 19, Number 7 (originally distributed June 30, 2025, via e​mail to "community newsletter: A2 City News" subscribers​​)​​ ​​​​​​​

Cooling sites and resources

With summer temperatures in full force, Washtenaw County has designated locations for community members to escape the heat. In addition, all Washtenaw County office building lobbies are available during normal business hours as cooling sites.

When extreme heat hits, remember to stay indoors/in shaded areas as much as possible and limit your exposure to the sun. Visit the county online for additional resources to help keep cool. 

Comprehensive plan draft-two review

The second draft of the Ann Arbor Comprehensive Land Use Plan is available for review, alongside the first draft for comparison, the project timeline and engagement efforts. The planning commission is currently scheduled to review the second draft at its Tuesday, July 1, meeting at 5:30 p.m. The June 24 meeting was cancelled to allow staff more time to organize the commissioners’ edits and review the draft before the next discussion.

As of now, there is one more draft to produce prior to the plan entering the 63-day review period in August, as required by the Michigan Planning Enabling Act.

Some of the major edits made following the first round of reviews:

• A glossary of terms was added.
• The flex district changed to the transition district.
• The section “Ann Arbor Today” was updated to include data for the trends discussed.
• An explanation for how vision, goals and strategies are related
• Height in the residential category is capped at three stories.
• An explanation of how staff arrived at the future land-use map was included.
• Tree canopy information was provided from the Urban Forestry Management Plan.
• The green call-out boxes have changed to provide information about Ann Arbor's existing ordinances and/or data (as opposed to other cities).
• The implementation matrix was added.
• A housing appendix was added.

Visit the project page for more information. The city thanks all who are engaged in this process!

AAFD offers residents free smoke detectors

The Ann Arbor Fire Department is offering a free smoke detector installation program for residents living within city limits. A working smoke detector can cut fire-related deaths in half.

This service includes:

• Free smoke detector
• Free installation
• Testing + placement guidance + fire safety tips

Priority is given to seniors, people with disabilities and homes without working detectors. Request your appointment online. Note: This program does not cover rental properties. Landlords are required to provide functioning detectors under city ordinance.

Independence Day schedule

City of Ann Arbor municipal offices will be closed Friday, July 4, due to Independence Day. There will be no trash/recycling/compost curbside collection on the holiday Friday, and Friday pickups will instead take place on Saturday. 

The City of Ann Arbor wishes you a safe and happy Fourth of July!

Time for fireworks?

If you’re planning to celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, please remember to do so safely and responsibly. This Independence Day, fireworks are permitted only June 29–July 5 after 11 a.m. until 11:45 p.m. each of these days, per the Michigan Fireworks Safety Act 256 of 2011, section 28.457 Local ordinances (PDF). 

Also note, using fireworks without permission is ALWAYS PROHIBITED at:

• City parks
• Schools
• All public and private property that isn’t your own

Further, anyone setting off fireworks that cause a fire resulting in property damage will potentially face civil and criminal liability.

Now that you know the laws, please also be aware of these important safety reminders:

• Keep a water source ready to spray embers from fireworks. Drench the entire area where you’ve been using fireworks when done.
• Toss used fireworks into a bucket of water for at least 24 hours before disposing.
• Don’t try to reignite fireworks that won’t go off.
• Don’t launch fireworks into forests or fields. Dry grass or leaves could ignite.
• Keep fireworks away from your face and eyes.

More information is available on the National Fire Protection Association website. 

Fireworks also pose a risk to pets. Visit the American Veterinary Medical Association website for tips on how to keep pets safe for the holiday and all summer long. 

If you plan to use fireworks, please follow the laws, do so safely and be courteous by letting neighbors know in advance. This includes being mindful of any military veterans or others who may be sensitive to the noise associated with fireworks.

The city thanks you in advance for being a good neighbor.

You're invited: Free concert and community picnic July 2

A special evening is planned for the entire community to enjoy. Wednesday, July 2, 5–9 p.m., a free, live outdoor performance will take place by the Ann Arbor Civic Band in Burns Park, adjacent to the Ann Arbor Senior Center (1320 Baldwin Ave.). Bring your own picnic and eat outdoors during the concert –or– dine indoors at the senior center. Complimentary ice cream will be served after the performance.

This event is also a great opportunity to tour the Ann Arbor Senior Center and to learn about rental opportunities, programs, services, meet staff and connect with other community members.

No preregistration necessary. Questions? Call 734.794.6250.

Holiday weekend dog park pops up at Vets

Get ready for some off-leash "independence" for your (canine) best friend. A temporary dog park is popping up at Veterans Memorial Park for the holiday weekend! For three days only, dogs can run, sniff and play at the designated park, on ballfield No. 4 (2255 Dexter Road), Friday, July 4, through Sunday, July 6.

Something extra special is planned on Saturday, July 5, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., sure to make tails wag! Canines and their human companions can enjoy cool treats, pup-themed crafts, dog enrichment activities and a best trick contest starting at noon. The event is free and open to the public.

A valid dog license and a dog park permit are required for entrance to and to participate at city dog parks. If you do not yet have the license and permit, there is still (LIMITED) time to receive both when you apply in person (only) before the pop-up park opens. But don’t delay! Go online for office hours and more information.

Cool off this summer at an outdoor city pool! 

Buhr, Fuller & Veterans Memorial parks each offer something a little different. Swim laps, take a private or group lesson, splash with the kids in the tot pool, try the giant slide, drop in for water polo at Fuller or just relax on a deck chair. Season passes, schedules & details: www.a2gov.org/pool 

Championship golf at Leslie Park

One of Ann Arbor’s most scenic and celebrated green spaces, Leslie Park Golf Course (2120 Traver Road), is hosting upcoming championship events, brought to you by the City of Ann Arbor and Miles of Golf. The 2025 City of Ann Arbor Amateur Championship takes place July 18–20. Golfers are invited to compete in this 54-hole, stroke play event. Cost is $199 for walking participants and $259 for golfers who prefer a cart. The field will be flighted after the second round.

The City of Ann Arbor Senior Amateur will be held Aug. 16–17. This 36-hole, stroke play tournament costs $125 to walk and $165 with a cart. Players will be flighted after the first round.

Go online to register now, or call 734.794.6245 to sign up.

Enjoy an evening out with friends & local eats

The Ann Arbor Farmers Market Food Truck Rallies return the third Wednesday of each month, July through October (315 Detroit St.). The 2025 season kicks off Wednesday, July 16, with a rotating lineup of local food trucks, carts and pop-up vendors, along with live music 5-8 p.m. When the Wednesday markets on these days conclude at 3 p.m., the food truck rallies get started! Visit the Ann Arbor Farmers Market website and/or follow the market on Instagram and Facebook (@a2market) for updates, including participating vendors. Food truck rallies will feature a variety of cuisines and food cultures, with options for herbivores, omnivores, carnivores and pescatarians.

Progress on Barton-Bandemer Pedestrian Tunnel project

June 3–5, 2025, a 48-hour, round-the-clock operation resulted in the impressive installation of the Barton-Bandemer Pedestrian Tunnel structure on Ann Arbor’s northwest side. The tunnel goes beneath the MDOT/Amtrak railroad, and the 48-hour window was scheduled with precision so that the contractor could fully remove and replace the tracks for the installation, making this an even-greater overall feat!

But don’t head over just yet; the tunnel is still closed! Construction is ongoing, and there is more to do before the tunnel can open and be used, including lighting, drainage systems, connecting pathway, a small bridge and site restoration.

Once the project is complete and open later this fall, the tunnel will provide a crucial, safe and legal link in the Border to Border Trail. Until then, please continue to avoid work areas and follow all posted signs to stay safe as construction is ongoing. Thank you for your continued patience!

The project is a partnership of the City of Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission, with private funding from Huron Waterloo Pathways Initiative and Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation. Check out the time-lapse video to see the construction in action; videography courtesy of Wade Trim. 

Barton Dam embankment construction

An unrelated-project reminder: Barton Dam embankment construction continues, as required by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), in areas of Barton Pond, Barton Nature Area, Bird Hills Nature Area and trails to and along the Huron River. While the river is open for recreation, the city is asking boaters to please plan ahead for where they will enter and exit the water, away from the construction stie. Visit the Barton Dam embankment project page for more information. 

All visitors to these parks and nature areas, whether by water or by land, should be aware of the potential for construction traffic and adhere to the access restrictions. Your safety is important! The city thanks you for your patience during these necessary projects.

Summer taxes due

Summer property taxes are due by July 31 in order to avoid interest or penalty. For eligible, low-income homeowners, Michigan law provides for a reduction in property taxes, commonly known as a poverty exemption. A poverty exemption application (PDF) may be submitted no later than Friday, July 18, 2025, to allow time for review prior to the Board of Review July meeting, which takes place July 22.

Taxes may be paid in person, by mail, by phone (866.890.4982) or online. If choosing to use the online payment platform for property taxes, you have the option (not required) to register your email and/or mobile number to enable notifications and reminders. Payments are also accepted at the City of Ann Arbor Customer Service Center (located on the first floor of Larcom City Hall at 301 E. Huron St.) or onsite drop box and at several Bank of Ann Arbor branches. Bank of Ann Arbor will accept full summer tax payments in July only.

Regular business hours at the customer service center are 8 a.m.–5 p.m. weekdays. Please note, the customer service center at Larcom City Hall is closed to observe the Independence Day holiday Friday July 4, and will reopen Monday, July 7.

Visit the city’s property taxes webpage for more information, including how property taxes are calculated.

Sustainability updates

Ann Arbor recognized for climate leadership

The City of Ann Arbor has been named to the 2024 CDP A List, the top status available from the largest global independent environmental disclosure system, recognizing global leadership in environmental transparency, climate action and resilience planning. Only 112 cities worldwide (including 29 U.S. cities) earned the top status of an A score! 

Closer to home, Ann Arbor is one of two cities being recognized with platinum certification from the Michigan Green Communities program! Excellence in the categories of climate resilience and adaptation, energy efficiency and renewable energy, clean mobility and materials management and community engagement has earned Ann Arbor this recognition.

Also, visit Ann Arbor Sustainability and Innovations online for more information about:

• Home energy rebates
• Green Rental Housing Ordinance
• Solarize Ann Arbor
• How to join the SEU waitlist
• And more!

A2 retains AAA

In April 2025, S&P Global Ratings confirmed the City of Ann Arbor’s credit rating of “AAA,” the highest rating a municipality can be assigned. S&P indicated a stable financial outlook, positive operating results, and a growing and resilient local economy for the continued rating. The credit rating was confirmed as the city prepared for the sale of its 2025 Capital Improvement Bonds to construct a new Fire Station 4, which will be located at 2415 S. Huron Parkway and expected to open in summer 2026. Ann Arbor is one of only 15 Michigan cities to hold the prestigious “AAA” rating from S&P Global Ratings and is also the most populous AAA-rated city in the state.

Nominate a local artist

Nominations for the 2025 Golden Paintbrush Awards are now open! The Ann Arbor Public Art Commission’s biennial awards are designed to recognize people in the community who’ve created or fostered art in Ann Arbor’s public spaces. Any individual, group or organization can be nominated for the Golden Paintbrush Award if their art demonstrates civic engagement, creativity or skill, and is publicly visible and maintainable. Learn more!

Get ready for the Aug. 5 election

The Special Election will be held in Ann Arbor Tuesday, Aug. 5, with polling places open 7 a.m. –8 p.m. Here are some notes to know now:

Do you need to register to vote in Ann Arbor? Check your voter registration status, and if you're not already, register online to vote through the Michigan Voter Information Center. City residents can also submit a voter registration form by mail, email, fax or in-person at the Ann Arbor City Clerk's office.

Voters on the permanent absent voter (AV) application list should have already received their AV applications in the mail in May or June. If you’re interested in voting absentee or to learn more, find all the details on the city absentee voting page. 

Registered voters in Ann Arbor can vote as early as five days before Special Election Day — Wednesday, July 30–Sunday, Aug. 3 — at any one of these early voting locations: Larcom City Hall, hours: 9 a.m.–5 p.m. | Traverwood Library Branch, hours: 11 a.m.–7 p.m. | Malletts Creek Library Branch, hours: 11 a.m.–7 p.m. | Westgate Library Branch, hours: 11 a.m.–7 p.m. 

Plan to vote in person on Election Day? Voters in Precinct 5–50 who are assigned to Haisley School will be temporarily reassigned to Forsythe Middle School for this election only, due to construction at Haisley. All affected voters were mailed a postcard notice in June about the temporary change.

The Ann Arbor City Clerk’s Office has extended office hours during early voting. Beginning Wednesday, July 30, through Friday, Aug. 1, the office will be open to the public until 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday hours, Aug. 2 and Aug. 3 are 9 a.m.–7 p.m.

More information about the upcoming election, including ballot proposals, AV drop box locations and more, can all be found at a2gov.org/elections. And, of course, the Ann Arbor City Clerk’s office is happy to answer your questions, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–noon –and– 1–5 p.m., as well as during special office hours (see above), and at 734.794.6140 or cityclerk@a2gov.org.

Art Fair pro tips

The annual Ann Arbor Art Fair will be taking over many city streets — and will bring tens of thousands of visitors to the city — Thursday–Saturday, July 17–19. Anyone familiar with summertime in Michigan knows storms can also sometimes pay an unwelcomed visit to the event.

Visitors to the city, shoppers and fair vendors alike can be prepared by signing up for Art Fair urgent alerts via the city/county emergency alert system, Everbridge. It's easy to do and instant from your mobile phone. Notifications would only be sent to your phone to share urgent safety information and during the fair dates. To sign up, text A2ARTFAIR (in all caps, no spaces) to 888777.

Another way to prepare like a pro? Check the road and lane closures webpage as the event nears to find out which streets will be closed. While on this page, you can also sign up to be notified of planned road and lane closures. 

Be prepared

Ready.gov reminds us that anytime is the ideal time to ensure your emergency plan and supplies are up to date. So, why not now? The spring/summer seasons, especially, pose threats for extreme heat, hazardous weather conditions and severe thunderstorms, which can develop with little or no warning. 

Before an emergency strikes, start your preparation planning by asking yourself:

• What is my shelter plan?
• What is my evacuation route?
• What is my family/household communication plan?
• How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings? (Hint: Sign up for year-round emergency alerts for Ann Arbor through the Everbridge system, if you haven’t already!)

Help with your answers to these questions is at your fingertips. Ready.gov provides valuable resources to help you assemble a comprehensive plan. 

Your plan should include steps to ensure your pet’s wellbeing, too. If you need to evacuate your home for any reason, remember your furry, scaly or feathered friends. The Ready Campaign offers guidance and tips for:

• Making a pet emergency plan
• Preparing shelter for your pet
• Protecting your pet during a disaster and caring for them afterward
• Tips for large animals

Learn more about how to ensure your entire family is prepared for emergency situations. 

The City of Ann Arbor also operates 22 outdoor warning sirens citywide which are used to alert people who are outside to immediately seek shelter and seek out additional information. Sirens are used in the event of an emergency, which includes inclement weather, such as high winds, tornados, large hail, in addition to urgent situations relating to hazardous materials and dams. 

Spot a plot, Stop a Plot

The Michigan State Police “Stop a Plot” initiative raises awareness and helps community members identify and possibly prevent targeted acts of violence. MSP shares common warning signs to recognize, risk factors to be aware of, how to report suspicious activity confidentially, and also tips and resources to help someone who might be at risk. 

CTN highlights

Check out CTN’s wide range of programs available to watch online now!

Ann Arbor Inclusive — Best Buddies of Michigan 

Ann Arbor Public Schools — Community High School 

Ann Arbor Public Schools — Huron High School 

Ann Arbor Public Schools — Pathways to Success High School 

Ann Arbor Public Schools — Pioneer High School 

Ann Arbor Public Schools — Skyline High School 

City of Ann Arbor/DTE Energy Franchise Agreement — Ann Arbor and DTE Energy reached a new franchise agreement to create a fossil-free future for generations to come. 

City Round Up — Bike safety 

CTN Sports — Top Plays of the Season, Spring 2024– 2025 

FYI — Mary Hall-Thiam and Lynne Lande, vice co-chairs of the Ann Arbor NAACP 31st Juneteenth Celebration; Ann Arbor’s Net Zero Fire Station Groundbreaking; and the Humane Society of Huron Valley’s Walk and Wag and Run 

FYI— Mike Michelon, executive director of the Ann Arbor Summer Festival, shares all the fun-filled festivities at the 2025 A2SF; Lost In TV series explores Ann Arbor; and Habitat for Humanity Huron Valley’s neighborhood cleanup 

FYI — Michelle Tuplin, owner of Serendipity Books in Chelsea, shares how the community came together with a book brigade to help relocate the shop and how it garnered national attention; MiTAI Presents Amazing Taiwan; and Drum & Dance Jams at Interfaith Center for Spiritual Growth 

FYI — Ben Colman and Jeff DeBoer with the Rolling Sculpture Car Show; A2ZERO Ward Party; and rules for biking in the city of Ann Arbor 

Senior Moments — Ann Arbor multimedia artist Joan O'Connell discusses her artistic journey, her current exhibit at the Ann Arbor Senior Center and her deep passion for creating art. 

Soapbox — MI FarmLink

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