Special Election is Aug. 5

The Special Election in Ann Arbor is Tuesday, Aug. 5, with polling places open 7 a.m.?8 p.m. If you still need to register to vote in Ann Arbor, you may do so at the Ann Arbor City Clerk?s Office, second floor of Larcom City Hall, 301 E. Huron St. The city clerk?s office is open Monday?Friday, 8 a.m.?noon ?and? 1?5 p.m., and additional hours, 9 a.m.?7 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 2, and Sunday, Aug. 3.

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 early in person through 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.?

Planning 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.

More information about the Special 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, at 734.794.6140 or [email protected].

AAPD basketball fundraiser is Aug. 20 ? Attend or sign up now to play!

Another fun-filled evening of basketball, yard games, music and community returns - and all for a good cause! The second annual Ann Arbor Police Department Community Basketball Tournament Fundraiser is Wednesday, Aug. 20, at Leslie Park (2900 Leslie Park Circle), 6?8 p.m.

• WHEN: Wednesday, Aug. 20, 6?8 p.m.
• WHERE: Leslie Park, 2900 Leslie Park Circle
• SIGN UP NOW: https://aapd.a2gov.org/basketball
• Team spots are limited & must be 18 to play ? Register by Aug. 13!

Not playing in the tournament? The event is free to attend however, gift card donations are welcomed ?all proceeds go to Community Action Network of Ann Arbor (CAN).

Waiting list opens for affordable housing downtown A2

The Washtenaw County Office of Community and Economic Development is seeking income-restricted applicants for upcoming vacancies in the downtown Ann Arbor apartment complex, The Legacy! Apartments are one bedroom and will be available on a first-come basis. Interested in applying, or know someone who is? Please visit AnnArborWaitlist.com for details on this effort and to apply . Questions? Email [email protected].

City introduces new SEU executive director

The City of Ann Arbor is introducing Shoshannah Lenski as the first executive director of the Ann Arbor Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU), effective Aug. 25, 2025.Lenski brings a wealth of experience and leadership in sustainability, strategy and utility operations. She most recently served as associate director of the University of Michigan Center for Sustainable Systems and previously held several executive roles at DTE Energy, including director of gas strategy, director of enterprise performance management, and director of infrastructure renewal operations. Additionally, she has served as a consultant for the globally recognized Boston Consulting Group.?

The Ann Arbor SEU is a first-of-its-kind initiative designed to create a resilient, renewable-powered local energy system, one of the city?s most ambitious climate and equity goals supported by voters.?

Invitation(s) from OSI

Save the date and join the Ann Arbor Office of Sustainability and Innovations for these special events:

Local Food Festival, Thursday, Aug. 28, 5?8 p.m., Ann Arbor Farmers Market: Get ready for a delicious evening celebrating Michigan food and farming! The Ann Arbor Local Food Festival brings together farmers, chefs, food lovers and makers for a lively night of tastings, demos, music and more! Meet growers, sample seasonal fare, discover new flavors and learn how local food builds a stronger, more sustainable community. Food trucks and vendors will be on site with locally sourced meals available for purchase. Plus, enter for a chance to win prizes from local food businesses! The Local Food Festival is free to attend.

Green Fair, Friday, Sept. 19, 5?8 p.m., Downtown Ann Arbor: The annual Ann Arbor Green Fair features 100 exhibitors advancing sustainable living with information about renewable energy, energy waste reduction, the circular economy, local food systems, environmental resources, green transportation, environmental advocacy and justice, urban forestry and so much more!

Comp plan draft review continues

The Ann Arbor Planning Commission continues to review the second draft of the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (comp plan). The commission is scheduled to discuss the future land use map at their Aug. 5 and Aug. 19 meetings. On July 21, City Council passed a resolution to provide more guidance for the comp plan in areas that have been contentious during public comment. The resolution includes a density limit of triplex in R-1 and R-2 residential zones (5.17-1 PDF), height exceptions removed in residential zones, expedited permitting process for ?missing middle? housing, an acknowledgment of short-term rentals? impact on the housing market and the University of Michigan?s enrollment growth contribution to market pressure, among other things. Stay tuned for details, as the goal is to wrap up this draft in the fall to begin the official review period prior to adoption.

A2 to You planning office hours event at the farmers market

Curious about what?s being built in your neighborhood? Thinking about adding a fence, starting a home-based business or making changes in a historic district? This city event may be right up your ally. Stop by A2 to You: Community Planning Office Hours at the Ann Arbor Farmers Market (315 Detroit St.) Wednesday, Aug. 27, taking place 9 a.m. to noon! City planners from the Ann Arbor Planning Department will be on site to chat, answer questions and share updates ? no appointment needed. Whether you're a long-time resident or just moved in, this is your chance to learn more about how planning works in the city.

Find details or email questions in advance to [email protected].?

Mural planned to ?Elevate? Liberty Plaza

At the start of 2025, Oscillation debuted at Liberty Plaza, kicking off the Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority?s Elevate Program, a public art and placemaking initiative. Oscillation's large crystals interacted with visitors by glowing and playing different sounds and pitches. While Oscillation was meant to be temporary, ending in March, Liberty Plaza is about to be "elevated" by art once again ? and this time, it will be permanent!

C. Stanley Creative has been selected to design and paint a mural that incorporates geometric shapes flowing horizontally to fill the unique wall spaces of Liberty Plaza, creating a clean, modern look. The design will ultimately bring a unifying theme to the various levels and pockets of the plaza.

The Ann Arbor Art Center has been a key partner and collaborator with the artist, helping the DDA and Ann Arbor Parks & Recreation bring this project to fruition. The exciting installation will begin Aug. 11, weather permitting, and is expected to be completed in early September. Once installation is underway, the park may be partially or completely closed at times. All are asked to please follow instructions on posted signage, and everyone's patience and cooperation are appreciated. Updates will appear on Ann Arbor Parks & Recreation and DDA social media.?

Debuting this month in the Ann Arbor parks ?

Pop-up play events for preschoolers

Join Ann Arbor Parks & Recreation for free weekly outdoor playtime designed for children ages 3?5, accompanied by an adult. Each Tuesday, 10?11:30 a.m., little ones can enjoy games, crafts and social fun in a new park setting. Registration is suggested if you would like to participate in the craft activity.

• Aug. 5 ? Olson Park, 1519 Dhu Varren Road
• Aug. 12 ? Gallup Park, 3000 Fuller Road
• Aug. 19 ? Mary Beth Doyle Park, 3500 Birch Hollow Drive

Learn more and register today!?

Learn to dance in the parks

Put on your dancing shoes and head to Liberty Plaza (255 E. Liberty St.) for a free, themed dance party every Wednesday in August. Enjoy beginner-friendly group lessons starting off the evenings 6-7 p.m., followed by open dancing 7?9 p.m. No partner and no experience are necessary.

• Aug. 6 ? West Coast Swing
• Aug. 13 ? Bachata
• Aug. 20 ? Lindy Hop
• Aug. 27 ? Theme to be announced

Party in the Parks

Celebrate summer at West Park (215 Chapin St.) Saturday, Aug. 23, 4?7 p.m. This free event features live music from Dog Latin and Indie Rock Royalty, food trucks, face painting, a balloon twister, bounce house and kids crafts.

Project updates

Progress on Barton-Bandemer Pedestrian Tunnel project

Construction activity continues on the Barton-Bandemer Pedestrian Tunnel project on Ann Arbor?s northwest side. When the project is complete and opens later this fall, the tunnel will provide a crucial, safe and legal link in the Border to Border Trail (B2B). Until then, please continue to avoid work areas and follow all posted signs to stay safe. Visitors can expect intermittent closures of the Bandemer Park road and partial closure of an adjacent section of the B2B/sidewalk, anticipated at the beginning of August, weather permitting. Work will include reconstructing a section of concrete as well as part of the asphalt road. Please follow Ann Arbor Parks & Recreation social media for updates as they become available as well as see posted signage on site.

The project is currently on schedule to open later this fall!

Barton Dam embankment construction

Barton Dam embankment construction also continues in areas of Barton Pond, Barton Nature Area, Bird Hills Nature Area and trails to and along the Huron, as required by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). While the river is open for recreation, the city reminds boaters, especially 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.

Join Ann Arbor in celebrating a history of inclusion

Save the date! All are invited to attend a special ceremony Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, at 11 a.m. unveiling a new historical marker to honor a pivotal chapter in LGBTQ+ history here in Ann Arbor. A The marker commemorates courageous actions of Ann Arbor City Councilmembers Nancy Wechsler and Jerry DeGrieck, who, in 1973, became the first elected officials in the United States to come out as lesbian and gay while holding public office, and commemorates Kathy Kozachenko who was elected in 1974, becoming the first openly LGBTQ+ candidate elected to a public office in the United States. This marker celebrates the Human Rights Party, and LGBTQ+ rights pioneer Jim Toy, for their advocacy that led to the passage of the first-ever Lesbian-Gay Pride Week Resolution by a governing body and the expansion of the city's Human Rights Ordinance to include protections for sexual orientation. The unveiling will take place on the south side of Larcom City Hall, 301 E. Huron St., with remarks by city officials and community leaders.

Kathy Kozachenko will also later be honored with a life-sized statue at Larcom City Hall, as the first openly gay person in the United States to be elected to public office when she won an Ann Arbor City Council seat back in 1974. The community is being invited to participate in this effort.

Watch City of Ann Arbor social media as additional details become available.?

City welcomes new accessibility coordinator

Jenna Truong has joined the City of Ann Arbor Office of Organizational Equity (OOE) as accessibility coordinator. Truong will be collaborating with city staff, visitors and residents to ensure city practices and spaces are inclusive and compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other relevant guidelines. She previously worked with Public Health ? Seattle & King County and at the University of Washington in disability advocacy, public service and equity-centered program development, creating environments where all people can participate fully and with dignity.

Student move-in changes come to city streets Aug. 19?24

If you will be driving in the city later this month, be aware, University of Michigan students are arriving for resident hall move in. That means changes will be in place 6 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 19, until 11 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, impacting certain traffic patterns, bagging specific meters and allowing parking on designated streets.

• Thompson ? One way, southbound from East Jefferson to Packard ? Meters bagged
• East Madison ? One way, eastbound from Packard to South State ? Meters bagged
• Observatory ? One way, southbound from East Ann to Geddes ? Meters bagged
• East Washington ? One way, westbound from Fletcher to Thayer ? Meters bagged
• Maynard ? From East Jefferson to East William ? Meters bagged
• East University between Hill and Willard ? Meters bagged
• Church Street between Hill and Willard ? Meters bagged
• North University Court ? Meters bagged
• Washington Heights ? Closed from Observatory to East Medical Center Drive ? Meters bagged
• East Ann ? One way, eastbound from Zina Pitcher Place to Observatory ? Meters bagged

Also find these move-in details on the city road and lane closures webpage, where closures related to the University of Michigan home football games and on-street parking restrictions will also be posted as that information becomes available later this month.?

City recognized for financial reporting excellence

The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) has presented the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting Award to the City of Ann Arbor for the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2024.?

Same compost program, new cart look!

You may notice some compost carts in Ann Arbor now have bright green lids. This small change is part of the city?s effort to improve curbside collection and reduce contamination.

Until now, both compost and trash carts had black lids, making them hard to tell apart?especially for crews working early morning routes. The green lids make compost carts easier to spot, helping drivers avoid mixing up trash and compost. Fewer mistakes mean cleaner compost and better service.

When a compost cart is damaged or needs to be replaced for another reason, residents will receive a cart from the older inventory first (even if it has a black lid) or they will receive a cart with a green lid once older inventory is depleted.

Please note: The city is not replacing lids just to match the new look, even if requested.

This update is one of many small steps the city is taking to support clean, efficient, and sustainable waste collection. Thank you for helping us keep compost clean and contamination-free!?

Labor Day schedule

City of Ann Arbor municipal offices will be closed, and curbside collection of trash/recycling/compost will not take place, on Labor Day Monday, Sept. 1. Curbside pickups will resume, with a one-day delay, Tuesday and continue through Saturday. Have a safe and enjoyable holiday!

CTN highlights

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

A2ZERO Clothing Swap Promo

Adventures In Parenthood ? Sepsis Alliance?

City Round Up ? Boards and Commissions: Interested in civic engagement? Learn how you can join one of Ann Arbor?s many boards and commissions and help shape your community.?

CTN @ the Art Fair 2025 #1?

CTN @ the Art Fair 2025 #2?

CTN @ the Art Fair 2025 #3?

CTN @ the Art Fair 2025 #4?

CTN @ the Art Fair 2025 #5?

CTN @ the Art Fair 2025 #6?

CTN @ the Art Fair 2025 #7?

FYI? Ann Arbor City Clerk Jacqueline Beaudry discusses the innovative clerk?s office recent accolades and voting in the upcoming special election; Rappelling with Friends in Deed; and the Drum and Dance Jam at Interfaith Center for Spiritual Growth

FYI: Special Art Fair Edition ? Karen Delhey, executive director of the Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair, Angela Kline, executive director of the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair: The Original, and Frances Todoro, interim director of the State Street District Art Fair, share all the exciting details about the 2025 Ann Arbor Art Fair.?

League of Women Voters: Educational Panel for Proposals A & B on the Aug. 5, 2025, Ann Arbor Ballot

Park Peek? Cranbrook Park?

Senior Moments ? Shannon Etcheverry of the Turner Senior Wellness Program shares insights about the organization, along with the classes and events offered at the Turner Senior Resource Center.?

Senior Moments? Meet Phyllis Robb, a watercolor artist who began painting during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hear how she developed her skills and how creating art has transformed her life.?

Ward Talk ? Jon Mallek, Ann Arbor City Councilmember from the Second Ward, June 2025?