Bench dedicated for former manager Valentine

By Lisa Brody

In honor of his years of service to the city, on Monday, October 4, during a special meeting, the Birmingham City Commission will present a city bench to former city manager Joe Valentine.

The bench is located on the west side of Birmingham City Hall and features a commemorative plaque honoring Valentine for his years of service to the city of Birmingham and its community. The bench overlooks Shain Park, and the commission hopes it will provide enjoyment to residents and visitors for years to come.

Valentine started his career as an intern in 1997 and served as a management specialist, acting director of the Birmingham Shopping District (BSD), human resources director, assistant city manager and two stints as interim city manager before accepting the position of city manager in July of 2014.  

Valentine resigned his position last October, effective December 31, 2020, and is currently assistant city manager for the city of Farmington Hills.

“We look forward to honoring Joe Valentine with the dedication of a city bench,” said Birmingham Mayor Pierre Boutros. “We are grateful for his 24 years of service and hope the community will join us as we thank him for his leadership and dedication to the city of Birmingham.”

The presentation of the bench to Valentine will take place at 5:45 p.m. on the west side of Birmingham City Hall at 151 Martin Street. The community is invited to attend the presentation in recognition of Valentine.

Immediately following the presentation, a city commission workshop will begin at 6 p.m., followed by the regular city commission meeting at 7:30 p.m.