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Royal Oak commission approves safety netting at Memorial Park, accepts EAB report and unanimously backs No Mow May
Summary
On April 14 the City Commission approved new 40‑foot netting at Memorial Park, accepted the Environmental Advisory Board’s 2023–2024 report, and unanimously passed a No Mow May resolution; commissioners also corrected a sidewalk cafe address and approved the consent agenda.
The Royal Oak City Commission on April 14 approved several routine and environmental items, including a safety netting project at Memorial Park, acceptance of the Environmental Advisory Board (EAB) annual report, and a unanimous resolution supporting No Mow May.
Memorial Park netting: The commission heard a briefing from Kevin Yee, Deputy Director of Public Services, who described a proposal to install wood poles and 40‑foot netting to extend protection about 150 feet down the third baseline and about 50 feet down the first baseline for the Memorial Park baseball field. The change aims to protect spectators, park users and motorists along Coolidge Highway from errant fly balls. The recommended bid was discussed in the packet (bid figure and contingencies cited by staff); the city manager said funding could be split 50/50 between the general fund and the city's risk management funds. Commissioner Kohl moved approval, seconded by Commissioner Herzog; the motion passed on a voice vote.
Environmental Advisory Board report and Earth Day/Arbor Day: Commissioners received the EAB's combined 2023–2024 annual report and praised the volunteer board for advancing sustainability programs, citing the city’s Sustainability and Climate Action Plan and regional leadership. The commission voted to accept the report (motion introduced by Commissioner Herzog; second by Commissioner Kolo) and the motion passed unanimously.
No Mow May resolution: The commission considered and approved a resolution supporting No Mow May, which allows code enforcement discretion not to issue citations for uncut lawns during May to encourage pollinator habitat. Staff said the city has sold roughly 500 lawn signs cumulatively to track participation; EAB and commissioners clarified that the policy is optional for residents and does not change maintenance of city parks. Commissioner Macy moved the resolution, second by Commissioner Herzog; the motion passed unanimously.
Other actions: The commission corrected a sidewalk café license address (400 East 4th Street changed to 500 East 4th Street) and approved the consent agenda with items f and I pulled for discussion. Several motions were voice‑voted and recorded as passing during the meeting.
What’s next: Staff will administer the Memorial Park netting contract administratively per the cover letter’s omission of the risk‑management split; the EAB plans outreach for the April 26 Oakland County Earth Day event at the Farmers Market, starting with a rally at 3 p.m. followed by a climate march at 4 p.m. and a vendor fair.
