Minutes 11/10/2005
Directors Present:
Carol Pass (CP), Mary Gonsior (MG), Cynthia Aguirre (CA), Hanna Lieder (HL), Rosie Cruz (RC), Aden Awil (AA), Earl Simms (ES), Linda Leonard (LL)
Members Present:
Stephanie Allen (SA), Sherzad Cruz (SC), Margaret Kirkpatrick (MK), Amy Pass (AP), Brad Pass (BP), Kevin Lieder (KL)
Guests Present:
Jim Roth, Natalia Pretelt, Don Greeley, Michou Kokodoku, MPD Officer Terry Nutter
MG called the meeting to order @ 6:43 PM and attendees introduced themselves.
Motion: (BP, CA) Approve agenda. Passed
Motion: (BP, CA) Approve 10/13/2005 GMM Minutes. Passed
CA Treasurers Report & discussion:
Our Budget & Financial Policy were accepted by Bob Cooper @ NRP.
$1,401.03 is in the bank.
* NRP needs Tax # & a few other items.
LL Do we need to spend money before 12/31/2005?
CP* We can get an extension but we need a spending plan.
HL Report on Nov. Action Items:
Most items accomplished.
CP Report on Public Safety Initiative:
A new group was formed with Karen Clark and others to write legislation to tighten penalties for repeat and frequent offenders. After a predetermined # of misdemeanors, future offenses are Gross Misdemeanors. After a predetermined # of Gross Misdemeanors, future offenses are Felonies. The plan is to work with rural county attorneys to press for legislative change.
CP Report on Live-work units on Bloomington @ 29th St.
At the Oct. GMM EPIC rescinded the September motion to lease land in the project area to provide temporary parking during Lake St. re-construction. This motion was rescinded because project funding would be lost and the project would be terminated if the land were leased instead of proceeding with the project. CP also reported that Sherman & Associates stated they were planning to proceed with construction of the two live-work units this spring.
MK A heads up on Arbor Day plantings in May
Don Greely Report on crime initiatives:
Don is assigned to Sector One of the third precinct, our sector. He brought mug shots of frequent offenders, handouts and talked about Chemical Dependency and Criminal Behavior Intervention. He encouraged us to participate in Court Watch and send in Community Impact Statements (which can be made anonymously).
Report on MCCD (Mpls. Consortium of Community Developers) by Jim Roth, Mishu Kokodoko and Natalia Pretelt
In 1995 MCCD provided a grant for the Franklin Station Town-homes (then called the Village in Phillips or VIP). PRG & PPL then built the project.
Jim Roth talked about the roll of non-profit developers and proposed legislation on real estate tax relief for low income housing.
Natalia P. works in the Loan Program & provides staff support for Lake St. Businesses.
Mishu K. oversees credit analysis, helping with business plans and finding funders.
MCCD maintains and administers loan funds, and is made up of many member organizations.
MCCD identified 25 barriers to development and/or starting a business.
CA Ice Breaker. Name your favorite or dream vacation spot.
MG Alabama Gulf. White sand beach.
BP Scotland
AA Route from Pakistan to Beijing over the Himalayas and up the Khyber Pass.
SC San Diego
RC Tijuana with relatives
SM Tasco Mexico & the Virgin Islands
CA Arizona/Japan
ES Dreams
CP Romania
LL Rain Forest in the Olympics
CP NRP report
Originally $20,000,000 of Common Project Money was to be divided between the Minneapolis neighborhoods based on relative need. Over the years, due to Mpls. fiscal problems, the money was reduced and a large part of the money was diverted to repay the Legacy fund which was a fund provided by the sale of the Old Hilton Hotel which was to be used for Mpls. development. The Legacy fund was invested in the stock market and was subsequently lost in the collapse of the technology market. Some members of the NRP Policy Board believe it may be inappropriate and/or illegal to use NRP funds to repay the Legacy Fund.
Motion: LL moved that – If it is determined to be appropriate, EPIC write a letter to the Mayor and City Council members insisting on the return to NRP of all NRP Moneys used to repay the Legacy Fund. AA Seconded.
Motion Passed.
Motion: CP moved to send a letter to the Mayor and City Council expressing concern about the possible acquisition of Neighborhood Loan Repayment Money by the city and insisting that these moneys be returned to the neighborhood which provided the funding and authorized the loan.
RC Seconded. Motion Passed.
AA reported that he repaid his EPIC loan and he wants to know if it is coming back to EPIC or is going Downtown.
LL Report on Winter Garden Party:
Party to be about the same as the Garden Harvest Party.
Motion: LL moved to allocate $75 for Winter garden Party. Seconded and Passed
Motion: Adjorn. Seconded and Passed at 8:45 PM
Respectfully submitted by
Brad Pass
12/2/2005
Thursday, November 10, 2005
Saturday, November 5, 2005
EPIC Board Meeting - November 2005
PRESENT
Mary Gonsior (MG), Hannah Lieder (HL), Linda Leonard (LL), Carol Pass (CP), Rosie Cruz (RC), Earl Simms (ES)
Directors not Present: Cynthia Aquirre (CA), Aden Awil (AA)
Meeting was called to order as Committee of the Whole at 10:09 by CP. Agenda was distributed. MG was designated as recording secretary.
AGENDA
The agenda was approved with the addition of property announcements.
MINUTES
Minutes were not available for the October 1, 2005 EBM.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Vigil on Columbus Avenue for 11 year old girl found dead. CP reported that the Mayor was not at the vigil. Attending were Dean Zimmerman, McManus, Gerlicher, McLaughlin.
Grand Opening Midtown Safety Center, Thursday, Nov. 10th 3-6 pm.
Garden Party was a success, and a lot of fun was had by more than 50 attending.
Greenway Design Charrette was attended by 40-50 people. So much input was received that planners decided another charrette was needed.
Public Safety Legislative Initiative is tackling two issues: 1. Take multiple misdemeanors and make them a gross misdemeanor, and 2. Have a policy to limit the number of sex offenders in Phillips because we have more than our share.
NRP Elections
LL is the official voter for EPIC to the Thursday, November 17 meeting to elect NRP Reps. CP is running to retain her seat on the board. Issues include Legacy Fund Repayment, and the general lack of financial support for neighborhoods by the Mayor.
QUORUM
Sulemon Mohamed has moved out of EPIC area; Quorum was established (6 of 8 directors present.)
CDBG funding
CP had to revise the budget so that all CDBG funds are spent in 2005. EPIC to re-submit budget to Robert Cooper. Cooper made suggestions regarding EPIC bylaws, to be reviewed at future board meetings.
Motion (CP, MG)
Accept revised Budget for CDBG funds as submitted at 11/01/05 EBM. Motion passed unanimously.
New Directors
Suleman has moved, so we do need to find another Director. CP and LL will invite new residents to EPIC meetings.
East Phillips Commons Development
The two lots just south of the new 29th & Bloomington apartment building. Parking for the businesses on Lake Street is a concern. Owner of Cadillac Pawn was paving his own lot for parking (without a permit.) Sherman Associates wants to build the townhomes requested by the neighborhood and is working with Cadillac Pawn owner trying to work out an agreement about parking. There is a dispute about the planning (also with the city.) CP has already sent a letter stating EPIC’s motion rescinding the motion to support temporary parking in this space, and will contact the principals and try to find out where the situation stands.
EPC 17th Ave. Garden Committee
CP, BP, HL met with GI and asked that EPIC not deal with Corrie Zoll regarding garden. CP wrote a Memorandum of Understanding which was not accepted by GI. CP has written a second memorandum incorporating changes:
Garden group is not a legal entity and so is removed from the memorandum.
Clarification of the voting process was incorporated into the memorandum.
Stipulated that gardeners must agree to abide by the memorandum.
Stipulated that the memorandum will stay with any future ownership of the garden.
BP tried to contact Corey Brinkema to find out what GI told Corrie Zoll. Corrie Zoll phoned Cynthia; was he asked to stay out of it?
Crime Report
Discussed Community Impact Statements. Judges are unwilling to give appropriate sentences without these statements from the community. It is best to have an ID number assigned for reporting, rather than using your name. Chronic offender reports were distributed. If you see these individuals acting illegally, you can complete an impact statement even though they are not under arrest, etc. CP will inquire whether it is okay to post these flyers on bulletin boards, web sites, etc.
GMM Agenda
Invite Don Greeley to GMM to present community impact statements.
Invite Jim Roth (MCCD) to present entrepreneur training and consulting.
Commodore Bar Site
Jason Geshwin is no longer the principal developer of this site. It has been handed off to Mark Welna. Discussed ideas for the corner, including a potential site for a community center.
Neighborhood Event
Discussed holding another garden bonfire or neighborhood event on November 28.
Survey
LL has made additional copies of the survey.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:00 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Mary Gonsior, Secretary
CDBG = Community Development Block Grant
EBM = EPIC Board Meeting
EPC 17th Ave. Garden Committee = East Phillips 17th Avenue Community Garden Steering Committee
EPIC = East Phillips Improvement Coalition
GMM = General Membership Meeting
GI = Green Institute
NRP = Neighborhood Revitalization Program
EPIC BOARD MEETING
November 5, 2005
2526 18th Avenue S, Apt. #5
Mary Gonsior (MG), Hannah Lieder (HL), Linda Leonard (LL), Carol Pass (CP), Rosie Cruz (RC), Earl Simms (ES)
Directors not Present: Cynthia Aquirre (CA), Aden Awil (AA)
Meeting was called to order as Committee of the Whole at 10:09 by CP. Agenda was distributed. MG was designated as recording secretary.
AGENDA
The agenda was approved with the addition of property announcements.
MINUTES
Minutes were not available for the October 1, 2005 EBM.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Vigil on Columbus Avenue for 11 year old girl found dead. CP reported that the Mayor was not at the vigil. Attending were Dean Zimmerman, McManus, Gerlicher, McLaughlin.
Grand Opening Midtown Safety Center, Thursday, Nov. 10th 3-6 pm.
Garden Party was a success, and a lot of fun was had by more than 50 attending.
Greenway Design Charrette was attended by 40-50 people. So much input was received that planners decided another charrette was needed.
Public Safety Legislative Initiative is tackling two issues: 1. Take multiple misdemeanors and make them a gross misdemeanor, and 2. Have a policy to limit the number of sex offenders in Phillips because we have more than our share.
NRP Elections
LL is the official voter for EPIC to the Thursday, November 17 meeting to elect NRP Reps. CP is running to retain her seat on the board. Issues include Legacy Fund Repayment, and the general lack of financial support for neighborhoods by the Mayor.
QUORUM
Sulemon Mohamed has moved out of EPIC area; Quorum was established (6 of 8 directors present.)
CDBG funding
CP had to revise the budget so that all CDBG funds are spent in 2005. EPIC to re-submit budget to Robert Cooper. Cooper made suggestions regarding EPIC bylaws, to be reviewed at future board meetings.
Motion (CP, MG)
Accept revised Budget for CDBG funds as submitted at 11/01/05 EBM. Motion passed unanimously.
New Directors
Suleman has moved, so we do need to find another Director. CP and LL will invite new residents to EPIC meetings.
East Phillips Commons Development
The two lots just south of the new 29th & Bloomington apartment building. Parking for the businesses on Lake Street is a concern. Owner of Cadillac Pawn was paving his own lot for parking (without a permit.) Sherman Associates wants to build the townhomes requested by the neighborhood and is working with Cadillac Pawn owner trying to work out an agreement about parking. There is a dispute about the planning (also with the city.) CP has already sent a letter stating EPIC’s motion rescinding the motion to support temporary parking in this space, and will contact the principals and try to find out where the situation stands.
EPC 17th Ave. Garden Committee
CP, BP, HL met with GI and asked that EPIC not deal with Corrie Zoll regarding garden. CP wrote a Memorandum of Understanding which was not accepted by GI. CP has written a second memorandum incorporating changes:
Garden group is not a legal entity and so is removed from the memorandum.
Clarification of the voting process was incorporated into the memorandum.
Stipulated that gardeners must agree to abide by the memorandum.
Stipulated that the memorandum will stay with any future ownership of the garden.
BP tried to contact Corey Brinkema to find out what GI told Corrie Zoll. Corrie Zoll phoned Cynthia; was he asked to stay out of it?
Crime Report
Discussed Community Impact Statements. Judges are unwilling to give appropriate sentences without these statements from the community. It is best to have an ID number assigned for reporting, rather than using your name. Chronic offender reports were distributed. If you see these individuals acting illegally, you can complete an impact statement even though they are not under arrest, etc. CP will inquire whether it is okay to post these flyers on bulletin boards, web sites, etc.
GMM Agenda
Invite Don Greeley to GMM to present community impact statements.
Invite Jim Roth (MCCD) to present entrepreneur training and consulting.
Commodore Bar Site
Jason Geshwin is no longer the principal developer of this site. It has been handed off to Mark Welna. Discussed ideas for the corner, including a potential site for a community center.
Neighborhood Event
Discussed holding another garden bonfire or neighborhood event on November 28.
Survey
LL has made additional copies of the survey.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:00 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Mary Gonsior, Secretary
CDBG = Community Development Block Grant
EBM = EPIC Board Meeting
EPC 17th Ave. Garden Committee = East Phillips 17th Avenue Community Garden Steering Committee
EPIC = East Phillips Improvement Coalition
GMM = General Membership Meeting
GI = Green Institute
NRP = Neighborhood Revitalization Program
EPIC BOARD MEETING
November 5, 2005
2526 18th Avenue S, Apt. #5
Thursday, October 13, 2005
Epic General Membership Meeting - October 2005
PRESENT
Directors Present: Carol Pass, Linda Leonard, Mary Gonsior, Rosie Cruz, Hannah Lieder, Cynthia Aguirre, Earl Simms
Members Present: Shirley Heyer, Michael Sanchez, Melissa Roussin, Laverne Turner, Amy Pass, Brad Pass, Sulemon Mohamed, Margaret Kirkpatrick, Gregorio Cruz,
Meeting was called to order at 6:45 pm by CP. MG chaired the meeting. Agenda was distributed. Minutes from the September GMM were distributed.
MOTION (AP, BP)
Lacking a Quorum, a motion was passed to convene the meeting as a Committee of the Whole.
AGENDA
Motion (BP, CA)
Motion to approve agenda with amendment to include Michael Sanchez at 7 pm. Motion passed.
QUORUM ESTABLISHED
Quorum was established at 6:52 pm. Ratify the actions of the Committee of the Whole. Passed
MINUTES
The minutes from the September 8, 2005 GMM were passed with no corrections:
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Phillips Community CleanSweep
The Phillips Community CleanSweep event will be held on Saturday, October 15, 2005 from 9 am until Noon. Sign In, supplies and breakfast will be available at two locations at 9 am (Thomson-Dougherty Funeral Home – 26th & Park Avenue, and Welna Hardware – 24th & Bloomington Avenue.) Volunteers will load trash into the garbage trucks. Lunch will be held at Stewart Park – 2700 12th Avenue S. Sponsored by Weed & Seed and Phillips Partnership, and local businesses. Residents are encouraged to clean out homes and garages and place items out for pickup on that date. In addition, breakfast will be served at several locations, and neighbors will go out and clean up the neighborhood.
Midtown Greenway Land Use & Redevelopment Plan
There were two meetings held in September to look at the open space along the entire greenway. The goal of the planning is to provide a unified plan throughout the greenway. The city paid for a consultant. Although there was a meeting for residents both east and west of Chicago, there was not good communication. The planning will affect property extending to 28th Street and possibly 26th Street. The next meeting is the “design phase” and will address specific land use and development. The meeting takes place on Thursday, October 20th from 6:30-8:30. Midtown YWCA, Community Rm, 2121 E. Lake Street. East Phillips residents are encouraged to attend.
A Night to Remember 3
An event to promote peace in our families and to remember and honor the victims & survivors of domestic violence. Wednesday, October 26th, 6-8 pm. Minnesota Indian Women’s Resource Center, 2300 15th Avenue S. Call Marie 612-253-2267.
Midtown Safety Center
The new Midtown Safety Center will celebrate their Grand Opening on November 10th 3-5 pm. 2949 Chicago Avenue.
Parking on 24th Street
EPIC continues to work on getting the parking signs changed for the Franklin Station Townhomes on 24th Street.
Phillips IDA Program
Michael Sanchez of Lutheran Social Services distributed flyers for a program that may benefit East Phillips residents. Sponsored by Faith in the City, a consortium of seven Lutheran organizations, the program offers a Personal Finance Center where residents may take free classes, learn good money management and receive personal coaching. Participants who complete the program will receive matched savings: $2.00 for every $1.00 saved. The Phillips IDA Program is available for a limited time. Eligible individuals live or work in the Phillips neighborhood, have a job and meet income guidelines, and are able to save $50 each month into a savings account. To learn more call 612-879-5220.
Let’s Break Some Ice!
Attendees got to know each other by participating in an ice-breaker activity; each person shared their favorite movie and favorite food.
CA Lavern’s curried chicken. Saving Private Ryan.
AA Cabretta (barbecued goat) & Mousa. Lawrence of Arabia.
CP Lavern’s chicken & spaghetti w green olives. Reds & Dr. Zivago
AP Avocados / guacamole
BP Barbecued Steak & corn on the cobb. 1st Star Wars Movie
RC Spaghetti & Meatballs. MagnolLia
ES S--t on a shingle w rice. Rosewood
LL Beef & noodles w mashed potatoes & hot rolls. Sound of Music
LT Lasagna. The Thin Red Line
HL Beans & Rice w tons of fried onions. Ever After
MR Dad’s biscuits & gravy. Hotel Rwanda
MK Korean barbecued beef & cone sussie. Ground Hog Day
MG Chinese chicken w mushrooms & veggies. Independence Day
SM Zambousa I Robot / Will Smith
Treasurer’s Report
The EPIC 2005/2006 Projected Budget for CDGB funding in the amount of $4,000 and for Wells Fargo funds in the amount of $2,661.06, introduced at the September 8, 2005 GMM was presented for acceptance.
MOTION (BP, LL)
Motion to approve the EPIC 2005/2006 Projected Budget, as proposed. Motion passed.
Financial Policies and Procedures
The proposed EPIC Fiscal Policies & Procedures marked “draft proposed 09/08/2005,” introduced at the September 8, 2005 GMM was presented for acceptance.
MOTION (LL, CA)
Motion to approve the EPIC Fiscal Policies & Procedures, as proposed. Motion passed.
Park and Recreation
Four Winds School is closing down and the Park Board has decided to close Peavey Park. The neighborhood has long asked for a staffed community center at East Phillips Park on 24th and 17th Avenue.
MOTION (LL, CA)
EPIC will address the mayor, the city council and park board members protesting the ongoing pattern of disregard and neglect for the children and families of Phillips neighborhood demonstrated by the inequity in funding buildings and programs for this neighborhood as compared to other neighborhoods. Motion passed.
East Phillips Commons (2900 block of Bloomington Avenue)
The neighborhood was hoping to put townhomes in this block of property. After presenting the EPIC motion to the city, EPIC learned that a conditional lease would not be accepted as a viable resolution regarding this property, therefore it is recommended that EPIC rescind its September motion, and reinstate EPIC’s support for the existing plan regarding further development of this property.
MOTION TO RESCIND PREVIOUS MOTION (CP, SM)
EPIC rescinds its September 8, 2005 motion, as follows:
[Motion: (BP, RC) - Write a letter opposing a permanent sale of this land to build a parking lot. EPIC would only support a conditional lease for a maximum of two years. The lease agreement to include the requirement that at the end of the lease, the property WILL go back to the neighborhood’s proposed development. Motion passed (one abstain, SA.)]
Motion to rescind previous motion passed.
Gustavus Adolphus
Presented new info on East Phillips Commons on Bloomington at 29th. Sherman and Associates is still interested in building the apartment building and live-work units. However, if we lease part of the development area to provide temporary parking relief as we voted to do at the Sept. meeting, we will lose our funding – TIF district and will be unable to continue with the project. A zoning application has been filed by Floyd Olson to permit conditional use to rezone from C1 to C3A, increase the height of the building, allow a shopping center, allow a parking facility, reduce side yard and front yard setback, reduce minimum drive-aisle width, reduce minimum parking requirement and increase maximum floor area ratio. The City Planning Commission will meet on Thursday, October 20 at 10 am, Room 317 at City Hall. EPIC opposes these zoning changes – see September 8, 2005 motion.
Board Elections
Discussed process and notification requirements regarding election of replacement board members. Board Directors must commit to attending at least two meetings per month (EBM, GMM) and must be willing to sign the EPIC Board Director contract. Nominations and election were announced at the September GMM.
NOMINATIONS (LL, CP)
Aden Awil was announced as a board nominee at the September 2005 GMM. Sulemon Mohamed was also nominated.
MOTION (MK, LL)
Accept Aden Awil and Sulemon Mohamed as EPIC Board Members by acclamation. Motion passed by acclamation
NRP Elector Selection
EPIC needs to select an elector and alternate to participate in the Policy Board Neighborhood Representative Election, held on Thursday, November 17th beginning at 6:30 pm at the Crown Roller Mill offices, 105 5th Avenue S. LL was selected elector by consensus. MG and LT were selected as alternates by consensus.
Fall Harvest Party
LL will take the lead in planning an event for a fall harvest party on October 21, 2005 at 6 pm. The event will be held at the EPIC 17th Avenue Community Garden and EPIC will provide hay bales and beverages. Residents should bring their favorite foods to share. Some possible activities include games, pumpkins for families, coloring activities, and new gardener sign-up sheet.
MOTION (MG, SM)
EPIC authorizes LL to spend up to $150.00 for the fall harvest party. LL and HL are on planning committee. Motion passed.
Survival Celebration!!
Cake was served to celebrate the last year of hard work by East Phillips residents and EPIC.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Mary Gonsior, Secretary
(Appreciation to Brad Pass for supplementary notes.)
ABBREVIATIONS
CDBG = Community Development Block Grant
CLIC = Capital Long Range Improvement Committee
CPED = Community Planning & Economic Development
EBM = EPIC Board Meeting
EPC 17th Ave. Garden Committee = East Phillips 17th Avenue Community Garden Steering Committee
EPIC = East Phillips Improvement Coalition
GMM = General Membership Meeting
GI = Green Institute
MPR = Minnesota Public Radio
NNO = National Night Out
NRP = Neighborhood Revitalization Program
PRG = Powderhorn Residents Group
WEI = Women’s Environmental Institute
EPIC GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
October 13, 2005 (DRAFT)
Holy Rosary Church
Directors Present: Carol Pass, Linda Leonard, Mary Gonsior, Rosie Cruz, Hannah Lieder, Cynthia Aguirre, Earl Simms
Members Present: Shirley Heyer, Michael Sanchez, Melissa Roussin, Laverne Turner, Amy Pass, Brad Pass, Sulemon Mohamed, Margaret Kirkpatrick, Gregorio Cruz,
Meeting was called to order at 6:45 pm by CP. MG chaired the meeting. Agenda was distributed. Minutes from the September GMM were distributed.
MOTION (AP, BP)
Lacking a Quorum, a motion was passed to convene the meeting as a Committee of the Whole.
AGENDA
Motion (BP, CA)
Motion to approve agenda with amendment to include Michael Sanchez at 7 pm. Motion passed.
QUORUM ESTABLISHED
Quorum was established at 6:52 pm. Ratify the actions of the Committee of the Whole. Passed
MINUTES
The minutes from the September 8, 2005 GMM were passed with no corrections:
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Phillips Community CleanSweep
The Phillips Community CleanSweep event will be held on Saturday, October 15, 2005 from 9 am until Noon. Sign In, supplies and breakfast will be available at two locations at 9 am (Thomson-Dougherty Funeral Home – 26th & Park Avenue, and Welna Hardware – 24th & Bloomington Avenue.) Volunteers will load trash into the garbage trucks. Lunch will be held at Stewart Park – 2700 12th Avenue S. Sponsored by Weed & Seed and Phillips Partnership, and local businesses. Residents are encouraged to clean out homes and garages and place items out for pickup on that date. In addition, breakfast will be served at several locations, and neighbors will go out and clean up the neighborhood.
Midtown Greenway Land Use & Redevelopment Plan
There were two meetings held in September to look at the open space along the entire greenway. The goal of the planning is to provide a unified plan throughout the greenway. The city paid for a consultant. Although there was a meeting for residents both east and west of Chicago, there was not good communication. The planning will affect property extending to 28th Street and possibly 26th Street. The next meeting is the “design phase” and will address specific land use and development. The meeting takes place on Thursday, October 20th from 6:30-8:30. Midtown YWCA, Community Rm, 2121 E. Lake Street. East Phillips residents are encouraged to attend.
A Night to Remember 3
An event to promote peace in our families and to remember and honor the victims & survivors of domestic violence. Wednesday, October 26th, 6-8 pm. Minnesota Indian Women’s Resource Center, 2300 15th Avenue S. Call Marie 612-253-2267.
Midtown Safety Center
The new Midtown Safety Center will celebrate their Grand Opening on November 10th 3-5 pm. 2949 Chicago Avenue.
Parking on 24th Street
EPIC continues to work on getting the parking signs changed for the Franklin Station Townhomes on 24th Street.
Phillips IDA Program
Michael Sanchez of Lutheran Social Services distributed flyers for a program that may benefit East Phillips residents. Sponsored by Faith in the City, a consortium of seven Lutheran organizations, the program offers a Personal Finance Center where residents may take free classes, learn good money management and receive personal coaching. Participants who complete the program will receive matched savings: $2.00 for every $1.00 saved. The Phillips IDA Program is available for a limited time. Eligible individuals live or work in the Phillips neighborhood, have a job and meet income guidelines, and are able to save $50 each month into a savings account. To learn more call 612-879-5220.
Let’s Break Some Ice!
Attendees got to know each other by participating in an ice-breaker activity; each person shared their favorite movie and favorite food.
CA Lavern’s curried chicken. Saving Private Ryan.
AA Cabretta (barbecued goat) & Mousa. Lawrence of Arabia.
CP Lavern’s chicken & spaghetti w green olives. Reds & Dr. Zivago
AP Avocados / guacamole
BP Barbecued Steak & corn on the cobb. 1st Star Wars Movie
RC Spaghetti & Meatballs. MagnolLia
ES S--t on a shingle w rice. Rosewood
LL Beef & noodles w mashed potatoes & hot rolls. Sound of Music
LT Lasagna. The Thin Red Line
HL Beans & Rice w tons of fried onions. Ever After
MR Dad’s biscuits & gravy. Hotel Rwanda
MK Korean barbecued beef & cone sussie. Ground Hog Day
MG Chinese chicken w mushrooms & veggies. Independence Day
SM Zambousa I Robot / Will Smith
Treasurer’s Report
The EPIC 2005/2006 Projected Budget for CDGB funding in the amount of $4,000 and for Wells Fargo funds in the amount of $2,661.06, introduced at the September 8, 2005 GMM was presented for acceptance.
MOTION (BP, LL)
Motion to approve the EPIC 2005/2006 Projected Budget, as proposed. Motion passed.
Financial Policies and Procedures
The proposed EPIC Fiscal Policies & Procedures marked “draft proposed 09/08/2005,” introduced at the September 8, 2005 GMM was presented for acceptance.
MOTION (LL, CA)
Motion to approve the EPIC Fiscal Policies & Procedures, as proposed. Motion passed.
Park and Recreation
Four Winds School is closing down and the Park Board has decided to close Peavey Park. The neighborhood has long asked for a staffed community center at East Phillips Park on 24th and 17th Avenue.
MOTION (LL, CA)
EPIC will address the mayor, the city council and park board members protesting the ongoing pattern of disregard and neglect for the children and families of Phillips neighborhood demonstrated by the inequity in funding buildings and programs for this neighborhood as compared to other neighborhoods. Motion passed.
East Phillips Commons (2900 block of Bloomington Avenue)
The neighborhood was hoping to put townhomes in this block of property. After presenting the EPIC motion to the city, EPIC learned that a conditional lease would not be accepted as a viable resolution regarding this property, therefore it is recommended that EPIC rescind its September motion, and reinstate EPIC’s support for the existing plan regarding further development of this property.
MOTION TO RESCIND PREVIOUS MOTION (CP, SM)
EPIC rescinds its September 8, 2005 motion, as follows:
[Motion: (BP, RC) - Write a letter opposing a permanent sale of this land to build a parking lot. EPIC would only support a conditional lease for a maximum of two years. The lease agreement to include the requirement that at the end of the lease, the property WILL go back to the neighborhood’s proposed development. Motion passed (one abstain, SA.)]
Motion to rescind previous motion passed.
Gustavus Adolphus
Presented new info on East Phillips Commons on Bloomington at 29th. Sherman and Associates is still interested in building the apartment building and live-work units. However, if we lease part of the development area to provide temporary parking relief as we voted to do at the Sept. meeting, we will lose our funding – TIF district and will be unable to continue with the project. A zoning application has been filed by Floyd Olson to permit conditional use to rezone from C1 to C3A, increase the height of the building, allow a shopping center, allow a parking facility, reduce side yard and front yard setback, reduce minimum drive-aisle width, reduce minimum parking requirement and increase maximum floor area ratio. The City Planning Commission will meet on Thursday, October 20 at 10 am, Room 317 at City Hall. EPIC opposes these zoning changes – see September 8, 2005 motion.
Board Elections
Discussed process and notification requirements regarding election of replacement board members. Board Directors must commit to attending at least two meetings per month (EBM, GMM) and must be willing to sign the EPIC Board Director contract. Nominations and election were announced at the September GMM.
NOMINATIONS (LL, CP)
Aden Awil was announced as a board nominee at the September 2005 GMM. Sulemon Mohamed was also nominated.
MOTION (MK, LL)
Accept Aden Awil and Sulemon Mohamed as EPIC Board Members by acclamation. Motion passed by acclamation
NRP Elector Selection
EPIC needs to select an elector and alternate to participate in the Policy Board Neighborhood Representative Election, held on Thursday, November 17th beginning at 6:30 pm at the Crown Roller Mill offices, 105 5th Avenue S. LL was selected elector by consensus. MG and LT were selected as alternates by consensus.
Fall Harvest Party
LL will take the lead in planning an event for a fall harvest party on October 21, 2005 at 6 pm. The event will be held at the EPIC 17th Avenue Community Garden and EPIC will provide hay bales and beverages. Residents should bring their favorite foods to share. Some possible activities include games, pumpkins for families, coloring activities, and new gardener sign-up sheet.
MOTION (MG, SM)
EPIC authorizes LL to spend up to $150.00 for the fall harvest party. LL and HL are on planning committee. Motion passed.
Survival Celebration!!
Cake was served to celebrate the last year of hard work by East Phillips residents and EPIC.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Mary Gonsior, Secretary
(Appreciation to Brad Pass for supplementary notes.)
ABBREVIATIONS
CDBG = Community Development Block Grant
CLIC = Capital Long Range Improvement Committee
CPED = Community Planning & Economic Development
EBM = EPIC Board Meeting
EPC 17th Ave. Garden Committee = East Phillips 17th Avenue Community Garden Steering Committee
EPIC = East Phillips Improvement Coalition
GMM = General Membership Meeting
GI = Green Institute
MPR = Minnesota Public Radio
NNO = National Night Out
NRP = Neighborhood Revitalization Program
PRG = Powderhorn Residents Group
WEI = Women’s Environmental Institute
EPIC GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
October 13, 2005 (DRAFT)
Holy Rosary Church
Saturday, October 1, 2005
EPIC Board Meeting - October 2005
PRESENT
Mary Gonsior (MG), Carol Pass (CP), Rosie Cruz (RC), Linda Leonard (LL), Earl Simms (ES), Cynthia Aguirre (CA)
Directors not Present: Hannah Lieder (HL), Sulemon Mohamed (SM)
Meeting was called to order as a committee of the whole at 10:15 by CP. Agenda was distributed. MG was designated as recording secretary.
AGENDA
The agenda was approved with correction: change “Reimbursements” to “Crime Report.”
QUORUM
Quorum was established at 10:25 am (6 of 8 directors present.)
MINUTES
The minutes from the September 3, 2005 EBM were approved.
Clean Sweep
We need to distribute flyers. The event will be held on October 15th. Acceptable items: furniture, tires, etc. No hazardous waster. LL suggested that flyers be distributed along with survey.
CDBG funding
EPIC will submit financial policies and budget to Robert Cooper.
Insurance
All steps are completed – EPIC is insured.
Crime Report
25-30 police officers went around Little Earth looking for many specific individuals. There were several arrests. The raid was conducted Thursday evening on both sides of Cedar. Discussed crime along 25th St. CA said there will probably be another sweep (upcoming elections.) CP attended problem properties tech team meeting. CP has repeatedly reported 16th Avenue n their “hot list.” The list of problem properties in Midtown is “huge.” We may want to focus on one or two properties at a time. For example, 2440-16th and NE corner of 16th & 25th. ES has seen people with keys going in and out of the property on the corner.
EPIC will complain to Well’s Fargo about the condition of the property and ask, 1. Who owns the property, 2. Send owner a letter about the condition of the property, 3. Request that the owner take the building down.
Find address for problem property on 28th St & 18th Avenue
Report on tech meeting: decisions on court watch; opportunity for neighborhood to provide information and feedback to authorities regarding crime and properties and to learn what they are doing. CA would like to try to attend at least one meeting. CP will dates to CA for weed and seed, crime tech team meeting. CP will try to get minutes for these meetings.
Hi-Lake Development.
There will be a public hearing meeting for the development of Hi-Lake Shopping Center, sometime in October. There are some proposed plans that EPIC doesn’t know anything about. EPIC missed a meeting in September. EPIC needs to have participation in this next public hearing. Ryan has been informed about these plans but hasn’t communicated the information to EPIC.
Housing and Economic Development Committee
By consensus, CP will supervise the Housing and Economic Development Committee meetings of EPIC and hold the chair accountable to hold regular meetings and report regularly to EPIC GMM
Parking Issues
Keep calling about 24th Street Parking. Discussed concerns about the alley and other issues regarding the next phase when the condo comes in on 24th and Bloomington. Discussed other concerns of Townhome residents and the need for EPIC to support some sort of communication between the Association and PRG.
Motion (LL, MG)
Write a letter to PRG to encourage them to meet with Townhouse residents to discuss concerns about parking and any other concerns. CC letter to David and other board members. Motion passed.
Board Directors
Invite potential candidates to become board members. Hold election at next GMM, if nominations are made. Names offered for consideration: Aden Awil, Amy Pass, Laverne Turner, Ryan Brueske, Marcelino Reyes. EPIC will invite these individuals to consider accepting nomination. Each director to try to bring two new people to EPIC GMM.
GMM
CA will develop an icebreaker for EPIC GMM.
Survey
Completing the survey will give us a strategic plan for Phase I spending and loosen the $200,000 Phase II funds. It will also give us indicators for Phase II spending. The survey will also help with writing the Phase I evaluation and is an opportunity to meet people and educate about EPIC meetings. Directors to meet separately to set up schedule and implementation of survey.
Garden
Appoint a 2nd liaison to Garden Committee, when a director is available. Call Cory Zoll and request, 1. A copy of Lynne’s “garden agreement”, and 2. An itemized list of money that EPIC owes for the garden.
Lack of program funding and closure of park buildings
Research class/ethnic discrimination in decisions to close parks, defund programming
Agenda for GMM
Submit agenda items to the chair.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:14 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Mary Gonsior, Secretary
CDBG = Community Development Block Grant
EBM = EPIC Board Meeting
EPC 17th Ave. Garden Committee = East Phillips 17th Avenue Community Garden Steering Committee
EPIC = East Phillips Improvement Coalition
GMM = General Membership Meeting
EPIC BOARD MEETING
October 1, 2005
2526 18th Avenue S, Apt. #5
Mary Gonsior (MG), Carol Pass (CP), Rosie Cruz (RC), Linda Leonard (LL), Earl Simms (ES), Cynthia Aguirre (CA)
Directors not Present: Hannah Lieder (HL), Sulemon Mohamed (SM)
Meeting was called to order as a committee of the whole at 10:15 by CP. Agenda was distributed. MG was designated as recording secretary.
AGENDA
The agenda was approved with correction: change “Reimbursements” to “Crime Report.”
QUORUM
Quorum was established at 10:25 am (6 of 8 directors present.)
MINUTES
The minutes from the September 3, 2005 EBM were approved.
Clean Sweep
We need to distribute flyers. The event will be held on October 15th. Acceptable items: furniture, tires, etc. No hazardous waster. LL suggested that flyers be distributed along with survey.
CDBG funding
EPIC will submit financial policies and budget to Robert Cooper.
Insurance
All steps are completed – EPIC is insured.
Crime Report
25-30 police officers went around Little Earth looking for many specific individuals. There were several arrests. The raid was conducted Thursday evening on both sides of Cedar. Discussed crime along 25th St. CA said there will probably be another sweep (upcoming elections.) CP attended problem properties tech team meeting. CP has repeatedly reported 16th Avenue n their “hot list.” The list of problem properties in Midtown is “huge.” We may want to focus on one or two properties at a time. For example, 2440-16th and NE corner of 16th & 25th. ES has seen people with keys going in and out of the property on the corner.
EPIC will complain to Well’s Fargo about the condition of the property and ask, 1. Who owns the property, 2. Send owner a letter about the condition of the property, 3. Request that the owner take the building down.
Find address for problem property on 28th St & 18th Avenue
Report on tech meeting: decisions on court watch; opportunity for neighborhood to provide information and feedback to authorities regarding crime and properties and to learn what they are doing. CA would like to try to attend at least one meeting. CP will dates to CA for weed and seed, crime tech team meeting. CP will try to get minutes for these meetings.
Hi-Lake Development.
There will be a public hearing meeting for the development of Hi-Lake Shopping Center, sometime in October. There are some proposed plans that EPIC doesn’t know anything about. EPIC missed a meeting in September. EPIC needs to have participation in this next public hearing. Ryan has been informed about these plans but hasn’t communicated the information to EPIC.
Housing and Economic Development Committee
By consensus, CP will supervise the Housing and Economic Development Committee meetings of EPIC and hold the chair accountable to hold regular meetings and report regularly to EPIC GMM
Parking Issues
Keep calling about 24th Street Parking. Discussed concerns about the alley and other issues regarding the next phase when the condo comes in on 24th and Bloomington. Discussed other concerns of Townhome residents and the need for EPIC to support some sort of communication between the Association and PRG.
Motion (LL, MG)
Write a letter to PRG to encourage them to meet with Townhouse residents to discuss concerns about parking and any other concerns. CC letter to David and other board members. Motion passed.
Board Directors
Invite potential candidates to become board members. Hold election at next GMM, if nominations are made. Names offered for consideration: Aden Awil, Amy Pass, Laverne Turner, Ryan Brueske, Marcelino Reyes. EPIC will invite these individuals to consider accepting nomination. Each director to try to bring two new people to EPIC GMM.
GMM
CA will develop an icebreaker for EPIC GMM.
Survey
Completing the survey will give us a strategic plan for Phase I spending and loosen the $200,000 Phase II funds. It will also give us indicators for Phase II spending. The survey will also help with writing the Phase I evaluation and is an opportunity to meet people and educate about EPIC meetings. Directors to meet separately to set up schedule and implementation of survey.
Garden
Appoint a 2nd liaison to Garden Committee, when a director is available. Call Cory Zoll and request, 1. A copy of Lynne’s “garden agreement”, and 2. An itemized list of money that EPIC owes for the garden.
Lack of program funding and closure of park buildings
Research class/ethnic discrimination in decisions to close parks, defund programming
Agenda for GMM
Submit agenda items to the chair.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:14 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Mary Gonsior, Secretary
CDBG = Community Development Block Grant
EBM = EPIC Board Meeting
EPC 17th Ave. Garden Committee = East Phillips 17th Avenue Community Garden Steering Committee
EPIC = East Phillips Improvement Coalition
GMM = General Membership Meeting
EPIC BOARD MEETING
October 1, 2005
2526 18th Avenue S, Apt. #5
Thursday, September 8, 2005
Epic General Membership Meeting - September 2005
PRESENT
Directors Present: Carol Pass, Linda Leonard, Mary Gonsior, Rosie Cruz, Hannah Lieder
Members Present: Amy Pass, Stephanie Allen, Kelly Ridge, Alfonso Cruz, Brad Pass, Mario ??, Sofia Maldonado
Directors not Present: Earl Simms, Cynthia Aguirre
Meeting was called to order at 6:41 pm by CP. MG chaired the meeting. Agenda was distributed. Minutes from the August GMM were distributed.
LACK OF QUORUM
Motion (CP, BP)
Motion to conduct the meeting as a committee of the whole. Motion passed.
AGENDA
Motion
Motion to approve agenda with correction to add announcements: Youth Baseball and Board Members announcement. Motion passed.
QUORUM ESTABLISHED
Quorum was established at 6:55 pm.
MINUTES
The minutes from the August 11, 2005 GMM were passed with the following corrections:
Pg. 1, CPED, second line: “HOWE program is looking for vacant properties…”
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Youth Baseball
On Monday, Sept. 26th the Minnesota Twins will recognize the Hispanic Month of Independence and have invited the Hispanic Baseball League to participate in a special event during their game.
Treasurer’s Report
CP presented the projected budget for 2005/2006 CDGB funding in the amount of $4,000. Existing funds at Wells Fargo in the amount of $2,661.06 has been allocated to Reimbursements for the March 2005 annual meeting, Liability Insurance and additional reimbursements for EPIC business expenses in 2005.
Old Business
The liability insurance has been acquired and is paid.
Letters have been sent regarding parking for the Franklin Station Townhomes on 24th Street. In addition, several phone calls have been made to City Council to try to get the parking signs changed.
The board developed a list of potential candidates for open board positions.
The board has not appointed a second director to the garden committee.
The board has not sent a letter of support for the zoning changes required for the condo development on 24th and Bloomington.
A letter of support was sent supporting the work of the Womens Environmental Institute.
Pending: Pushing the Park Board regarding beginning the community center process.
Pending: Stopping the asphalt plant from coming into EPIC. BP reported that he could obtain copies of the CLIC report. The CLIC report recommended NOT to authorize any money in the 2006 budget for the whole site on the corner of 28th and Hiawatha.
Pending: Replacing Police Officers.
Motion (LL, RC)
Send a letter to the City Council, the Mayor, and City Council candidates stating that the neighborhood is opposed to the establishment of an asphalt plant in that location, right next to the Greenway. The neighborhood would prefer transit oriented residential housing given the proximity of the site to Light Rail and the Greenway. Motion passed.
Motion (RC, MR)
Create a petition to encompass the letter of the previous motion, and begin collecting signatures as soon as possible. The petition must have 50 signatures before being submitted to the City Council, candidates, and the Mayor. Motion passed.
Weed & Seed / Phillips Community Clean Sweep
BP distributed a flyer for the Phillips Community Clean Sweep to be held Saturday, October 15th. Residents are encouraged to clean out homes and garages and place items out for pickup on that date. In addition, breakfast will be served at several locations, and neighbors will go out and clean up the neighborhood. We want residents to clean up their alleys and streets. A lunch will be served at noon at Stewart Park. The event is sponsored by Weed & Seed and local businesses.
Union Jobs
CP reported that the hotel on the Sears site will have union jobs available. These jobs are for untrained adults. These jobs will include training and benefits. EPIC will write a letter to the Union Organizer thanking them for contacting neighborhoods and trying to connect with neighborhood residents.
Parking on 24th Street
The letter has been sent and we are waiting to see it happen. We are calling about every four days for a progress report.
Board Members
Because two directors resigned from the board (moved out of the neighborhood) the board developed a list of potential candidates that we would like to invite to run for election to the board including Mark Welna, Rose Pluvois, Stephanie Allen, Daco Abdi, Aden Awil, Latisce Williams, Amy Pass, Jenny Gonsior. Nominations from the floor: Sofia Maldonado.
Board Directors must commit to attending at least two meetings per month (EBM, GMM) and must be willing to sign the EPIC Board Director contract.
REPORTS
Street Light Committee
PRG has some money to put pedestrian lighting on the two condominium units planned at 24th and Bloomington Avenue. Could we ask Welna’s to do the same? EPIC may have some money for additional pedestrian lighting elsewhere on Bloomington Avenue.
LL and RB drove around the neighborhood and collected a list of two dozen lighting concerns. You can go online at HYPERLINK "http://www.xcel.com" www.xcel.com to report these lights out. LL reported 15 lights out or intermittent lights out. There should be a response within two weeks. RB took note of three particularly dark areas (he has funding to remediate these problem areas.) There is almost no lighting in the alley on Cedar between E. 26th Street and Ogema. This is a stretch of about two blocks.
Xcel Energy reported that it costs about $6-8 per month to install your own security lighting. Neighbors could get together to put additional lighting in streets and alleys. EPIC should report this to the City Council and Public Works.
Financial Policies and Procedures
MG presented the proposed Fiscal Policies & Procedures marked “draft proposed 09/08/2005.” This document was developed by the Board over the last month in order to address EPICs current needs. Since EPIC no longer has an executive director, the current policies required some changes. We replaced the responsibilities identified with the executive director by replacing them with board directors. Following a sample policy received from the NRP office and looking at the existing EPIC policy, the board made changes to simplify the policies for current EPIC needs. A question and answer period followed presentation of each section of the policies. A motion will be presented at the next GMM to approve these policies.
Insurance
EPICs liability insurance has been paid.
Development Issue 1
Gustavus Adolphus is owned by Floyd Olson has submitted an application for zoning changes to permit conditional use to allow a shopping center with residential units above, reduce parking requirements and other zoning changes. There will be a public hearing 4:30 Room 317 at City Hall, Monday, September 19th. This is an inexperienced developer and the property is probably unsalvageable.
Motion (MG, HL)
Letter to oppose all the variances and conditional use permit requested by Floyd Olson for 1626 E. Lake Street and to oppose Floyd Olson as the developer on that property. Motion passed unanimously.
Development Issue 2
29th and Bloomington development. The neighborhood was hoping to put townhomes in this block of property. The city owns two lots here and the neighborhood envisioned three story live-work units that would fill in the block between the chiropractors’ office and the new apartment building. Since there is a shortage of parking on Lake Street and the construction will last about another year, there is an effort going on to get the city to sell these properties in order to build a parking lot here. The owners along 16th Avenue behind the property are opposed to a parking lot. RC stated that housing would be the best choice and would impact the neighboring properties most positively.
Motion: (BP, RC)
Write a letter opposing a permanent sale of this land to build a parking lot. EPIC would only support a conditional lease for a maximum of two years. The lease agreement to include the requirement that at the end of the lease, the property WILL go back to the neighborhood’s proposed development. Motion passed (one abstain, SA.)
Garden Committee
The minutes from August 13, 2005 garden meeting were distributed.
Crime Patrol
The Bloomington Avenue Citizen’s Patrol is ramping up again and is looking for volunteers. Contact Brad Pass.
Picnic in the Park
Ongoing.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Mary Gonsior, Secretary
ABBREVIATIONSCDBG = Community Development Block Grant
CLIC = Capital Long Range Improvement Committee
CPED = Community Planning & Economic Development
EBM = EPIC Board Meeting
EPC 17th Ave. Garden Committee = East Phillips 17th Avenue Community Garden Steering Committee
EPIC = East Phillips Improvement Coalition
GMM = General Membership Meeting
GI = Green Institute
MPR = Minnesota Public Radio
NNO = National Night Out
NRP = Neighborhood Revitalization Program
PRG = Powderhorn Residents Group
WEI = Women’s Environmental Institute
EPIC GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
September 8, 2005 (DRAFT)
Holy Rosary Church
Page PAGE 4 of NUMPAGES 4
Directors Present: Carol Pass, Linda Leonard, Mary Gonsior, Rosie Cruz, Hannah Lieder
Members Present: Amy Pass, Stephanie Allen, Kelly Ridge, Alfonso Cruz, Brad Pass, Mario ??, Sofia Maldonado
Directors not Present: Earl Simms, Cynthia Aguirre
Meeting was called to order at 6:41 pm by CP. MG chaired the meeting. Agenda was distributed. Minutes from the August GMM were distributed.
LACK OF QUORUM
Motion (CP, BP)
Motion to conduct the meeting as a committee of the whole. Motion passed.
AGENDA
Motion
Motion to approve agenda with correction to add announcements: Youth Baseball and Board Members announcement. Motion passed.
QUORUM ESTABLISHED
Quorum was established at 6:55 pm.
MINUTES
The minutes from the August 11, 2005 GMM were passed with the following corrections:
Pg. 1, CPED, second line: “HOWE program is looking for vacant properties…”
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Youth Baseball
On Monday, Sept. 26th the Minnesota Twins will recognize the Hispanic Month of Independence and have invited the Hispanic Baseball League to participate in a special event during their game.
Treasurer’s Report
CP presented the projected budget for 2005/2006 CDGB funding in the amount of $4,000. Existing funds at Wells Fargo in the amount of $2,661.06 has been allocated to Reimbursements for the March 2005 annual meeting, Liability Insurance and additional reimbursements for EPIC business expenses in 2005.
Old Business
The liability insurance has been acquired and is paid.
Letters have been sent regarding parking for the Franklin Station Townhomes on 24th Street. In addition, several phone calls have been made to City Council to try to get the parking signs changed.
The board developed a list of potential candidates for open board positions.
The board has not appointed a second director to the garden committee.
The board has not sent a letter of support for the zoning changes required for the condo development on 24th and Bloomington.
A letter of support was sent supporting the work of the Womens Environmental Institute.
Pending: Pushing the Park Board regarding beginning the community center process.
Pending: Stopping the asphalt plant from coming into EPIC. BP reported that he could obtain copies of the CLIC report. The CLIC report recommended NOT to authorize any money in the 2006 budget for the whole site on the corner of 28th and Hiawatha.
Pending: Replacing Police Officers.
Motion (LL, RC)
Send a letter to the City Council, the Mayor, and City Council candidates stating that the neighborhood is opposed to the establishment of an asphalt plant in that location, right next to the Greenway. The neighborhood would prefer transit oriented residential housing given the proximity of the site to Light Rail and the Greenway. Motion passed.
Motion (RC, MR)
Create a petition to encompass the letter of the previous motion, and begin collecting signatures as soon as possible. The petition must have 50 signatures before being submitted to the City Council, candidates, and the Mayor. Motion passed.
Weed & Seed / Phillips Community Clean Sweep
BP distributed a flyer for the Phillips Community Clean Sweep to be held Saturday, October 15th. Residents are encouraged to clean out homes and garages and place items out for pickup on that date. In addition, breakfast will be served at several locations, and neighbors will go out and clean up the neighborhood. We want residents to clean up their alleys and streets. A lunch will be served at noon at Stewart Park. The event is sponsored by Weed & Seed and local businesses.
Union Jobs
CP reported that the hotel on the Sears site will have union jobs available. These jobs are for untrained adults. These jobs will include training and benefits. EPIC will write a letter to the Union Organizer thanking them for contacting neighborhoods and trying to connect with neighborhood residents.
Parking on 24th Street
The letter has been sent and we are waiting to see it happen. We are calling about every four days for a progress report.
Board Members
Because two directors resigned from the board (moved out of the neighborhood) the board developed a list of potential candidates that we would like to invite to run for election to the board including Mark Welna, Rose Pluvois, Stephanie Allen, Daco Abdi, Aden Awil, Latisce Williams, Amy Pass, Jenny Gonsior. Nominations from the floor: Sofia Maldonado.
Board Directors must commit to attending at least two meetings per month (EBM, GMM) and must be willing to sign the EPIC Board Director contract.
REPORTS
Street Light Committee
PRG has some money to put pedestrian lighting on the two condominium units planned at 24th and Bloomington Avenue. Could we ask Welna’s to do the same? EPIC may have some money for additional pedestrian lighting elsewhere on Bloomington Avenue.
LL and RB drove around the neighborhood and collected a list of two dozen lighting concerns. You can go online at HYPERLINK "http://www.xcel.com" www.xcel.com to report these lights out. LL reported 15 lights out or intermittent lights out. There should be a response within two weeks. RB took note of three particularly dark areas (he has funding to remediate these problem areas.) There is almost no lighting in the alley on Cedar between E. 26th Street and Ogema. This is a stretch of about two blocks.
Xcel Energy reported that it costs about $6-8 per month to install your own security lighting. Neighbors could get together to put additional lighting in streets and alleys. EPIC should report this to the City Council and Public Works.
Financial Policies and Procedures
MG presented the proposed Fiscal Policies & Procedures marked “draft proposed 09/08/2005.” This document was developed by the Board over the last month in order to address EPICs current needs. Since EPIC no longer has an executive director, the current policies required some changes. We replaced the responsibilities identified with the executive director by replacing them with board directors. Following a sample policy received from the NRP office and looking at the existing EPIC policy, the board made changes to simplify the policies for current EPIC needs. A question and answer period followed presentation of each section of the policies. A motion will be presented at the next GMM to approve these policies.
Insurance
EPICs liability insurance has been paid.
Development Issue 1
Gustavus Adolphus is owned by Floyd Olson has submitted an application for zoning changes to permit conditional use to allow a shopping center with residential units above, reduce parking requirements and other zoning changes. There will be a public hearing 4:30 Room 317 at City Hall, Monday, September 19th. This is an inexperienced developer and the property is probably unsalvageable.
Motion (MG, HL)
Letter to oppose all the variances and conditional use permit requested by Floyd Olson for 1626 E. Lake Street and to oppose Floyd Olson as the developer on that property. Motion passed unanimously.
Development Issue 2
29th and Bloomington development. The neighborhood was hoping to put townhomes in this block of property. The city owns two lots here and the neighborhood envisioned three story live-work units that would fill in the block between the chiropractors’ office and the new apartment building. Since there is a shortage of parking on Lake Street and the construction will last about another year, there is an effort going on to get the city to sell these properties in order to build a parking lot here. The owners along 16th Avenue behind the property are opposed to a parking lot. RC stated that housing would be the best choice and would impact the neighboring properties most positively.
Motion: (BP, RC)
Write a letter opposing a permanent sale of this land to build a parking lot. EPIC would only support a conditional lease for a maximum of two years. The lease agreement to include the requirement that at the end of the lease, the property WILL go back to the neighborhood’s proposed development. Motion passed (one abstain, SA.)
Garden Committee
The minutes from August 13, 2005 garden meeting were distributed.
Crime Patrol
The Bloomington Avenue Citizen’s Patrol is ramping up again and is looking for volunteers. Contact Brad Pass.
Picnic in the Park
Ongoing.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Mary Gonsior, Secretary
ABBREVIATIONSCDBG = Community Development Block Grant
CLIC = Capital Long Range Improvement Committee
CPED = Community Planning & Economic Development
EBM = EPIC Board Meeting
EPC 17th Ave. Garden Committee = East Phillips 17th Avenue Community Garden Steering Committee
EPIC = East Phillips Improvement Coalition
GMM = General Membership Meeting
GI = Green Institute
MPR = Minnesota Public Radio
NNO = National Night Out
NRP = Neighborhood Revitalization Program
PRG = Powderhorn Residents Group
WEI = Women’s Environmental Institute
EPIC GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
September 8, 2005 (DRAFT)
Holy Rosary Church
Page PAGE 4 of NUMPAGES 4
Saturday, September 3, 2005
EPIC Board Meeting - September 2005
PRESENT
Mary Gonsior (MG), Hannah Lieder (HL), Linda Leonard (LL), Carol Pass (CP), Rosie Cruz (11:10 am.)
Directors not Present: Cynthia Aquirre
Meeting was called to order at 10:17 by CP. Agenda was distributed. MG was designated as recording secretary.
QUORUM
Andy and Albin have resigned; Quorum was established (4 of 6 directors present.)
Crime Concerns
Discussion of widespread prostitution and dealing along 25th Street and Cedar Park.
AGENDA
The agenda was approved with the addition of property announcements.
MINUTES
The minutes from the July 2, 2005 EBM were approved with the following correction:
Pg. 3, Garden Policy: Response to Corrie Zoll’s email, “AD and CA could find no active gardeners (2005) who…”
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Operation Clean Sweep
This is a clean up the neighborhood day where the city sends out trucks and picks up garbage. It is a very large event planned for October and EPIC’s responsibility will be to organize the community. Food will be offered at several locations. Residents will be able to put out large items to be picked up. A flyer will be available after the date is established next week.
Union Jobs at Sears Hotel
There will be about 80 jobs available. These will be entry level union jobs with training provided. Jobs will be clerical, housekeeping, and maintenance. Jobs are for adults.
Youth Concerns
Discussed concerns about youth employment, health, safety and education. HL will look into creating a resource containing job information for youth. CP will invite Maura Braun to EPIC meeting to share about how they put the resources together for the community center for Harrison Neighborhood.
BUSINESS
East Phillips Commons Project
29th and Bloomington, just south of the new apartment building. Lake Street businesses are very concerned about the lack of parking during the construction period. If the land is sold, the neighborhood has no say in whether the parking lot would be permanent. There is a series of owners who own pieces, and the City owns a big chunk of the property. CP will meet with owners who want to put in a large parking lot to provide parking for the businesses on Lake Street and report back.
Motion (LL, MG)
Motion for EPIC to support the temporary leasing for construction of a temporary parking lot secured with gates, camera and lights, but that the City retain public ownership of property for the East Phillips Commons Project. Motion passed.
Lights on Bloomington Avenue
PRG has some money to put pedestrian lighting on the two condominium units planned at 24th and Bloomington Avenue. Could we ask Welna’s to do the same? EPIC may have some money for additional pedestrian lighting elsewhere on Bloomington Avenue.
LL and RB drove around the neighborhood and collected a list of two dozen lighting concerns. You can go online at HYPERLINK "http://www.xcel.com" www.xcel.com to report these lights out. LL reported 15 lights out or intermittent lights out. There should be a response within two weeks. RB took note of three particularly dark areas (he has funding to remediate these problem areas.) There is almost no lighting in the alley on Cedar between E. 26th Street and Ogema. This is a stretch of about two blocks.
Xcel Energy reported that it costs about $6-8 per month to install your own security lighting. Neighbors could get together to put additional lighting in streets and alleys. EPIC should report this to the City Council and Public Works.
Parking on 24th Street
CP is calling Dean Zimmerman’s office to try to get the No Parking signs removed on 24th Street.
Budget for 501(c)(3) Application
The CDBG budget was approved with the following corrections:
Item number 3 – deleted “Child care expenses.”
Item number 5 – deleted the entire item.
Remove Andy and Albin from list of directors.
Change the amount for Annual meeting, entertainment, hall rental from $1000 to $750.
Change the amount for Additional admin. expenses…from $500 to $750.
General Liability Insurance
CP reported that she had determined that the $1,000 is for general liability insurance. This is required since we are holding public meetings. Payment is approved.
Reimbursements
LL submitted receipts for reimbursement of expenses for the annual meeting last March. Payment to LL in the amount of $268.07 was approved.
Financial Policies
MG and CP prepared proposed financial policies to be submitted in conjunction with our 501(c)(3) application. The proposed financial policy is a blending of the existing EPIC financial policies and samples that were provided by Robert Thompson from NRP. In addition, “procedures” were deleted from the policy – so that the policy includes general statements describing “what” EPIC does with money. These policies should be general enough so that they do not require frequent changes. In addition, the policies need to be approved by the general membership.
Specific procedures stating “how” EPIC manages money, including step by step descriptions of performing financial tasks will be adopted by the board and are included in the 501(C)(3) application.
CP, HL and MG will meet again on Tuesday evening at HL’s house to review and finalize the policy for presentation to the September GMM.
Discussion of Board Business
HL expressed disappointment that the board doesn’t seem to have enough time to address issues that are of great concern to her, including youth employment, crime, etc. CP noted that if we can put together a budget, learn to operate by Roberts Rules of Order, and create financial responsibility, the neighborhood will be able to begin working on these more important issues. Unless this administrative work is done, the organization will stall out completely.
Additional Board Meeting
MG proposed an additional board meeting 3-5 days after the GMM for board directors to review the “to do list” and schedule whatever meetings, projects need to be completed.
New Board Directors
Discussed potential candidates for board directors.
Mark Welna
Rose Pluvois
Stephanie Allen
Daco Abdi
Aden Awil
Latisce Williams
Amy Pass
Jenny Gonsior
Agenda for GMM
Submit agenda items to the chair.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:52 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Mary Gonsior, Secretary
CDBG = Community Development Block Grant
EBM = EPIC Board Meeting
EPC 17th Ave. Garden Committee = East Phillips 17th Avenue Community Garden Steering Committee
EPIC = East Phillips Improvement Coalition
GMM = General Membership Meeting
GI = Green Institute
NRP = Neighborhood Revitalization Program
SWMCB = Solid Waste Management Coordinating Board
EPIC BOARD MEETING
September 3, 2005
2435 Bloomington Ave. S.
Mary Gonsior (MG), Hannah Lieder (HL), Linda Leonard (LL), Carol Pass (CP), Rosie Cruz (11:10 am.)
Directors not Present: Cynthia Aquirre
Meeting was called to order at 10:17 by CP. Agenda was distributed. MG was designated as recording secretary.
QUORUM
Andy and Albin have resigned; Quorum was established (4 of 6 directors present.)
Crime Concerns
Discussion of widespread prostitution and dealing along 25th Street and Cedar Park.
AGENDA
The agenda was approved with the addition of property announcements.
MINUTES
The minutes from the July 2, 2005 EBM were approved with the following correction:
Pg. 3, Garden Policy: Response to Corrie Zoll’s email, “AD and CA could find no active gardeners (2005) who…”
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Operation Clean Sweep
This is a clean up the neighborhood day where the city sends out trucks and picks up garbage. It is a very large event planned for October and EPIC’s responsibility will be to organize the community. Food will be offered at several locations. Residents will be able to put out large items to be picked up. A flyer will be available after the date is established next week.
Union Jobs at Sears Hotel
There will be about 80 jobs available. These will be entry level union jobs with training provided. Jobs will be clerical, housekeeping, and maintenance. Jobs are for adults.
Youth Concerns
Discussed concerns about youth employment, health, safety and education. HL will look into creating a resource containing job information for youth. CP will invite Maura Braun to EPIC meeting to share about how they put the resources together for the community center for Harrison Neighborhood.
BUSINESS
East Phillips Commons Project
29th and Bloomington, just south of the new apartment building. Lake Street businesses are very concerned about the lack of parking during the construction period. If the land is sold, the neighborhood has no say in whether the parking lot would be permanent. There is a series of owners who own pieces, and the City owns a big chunk of the property. CP will meet with owners who want to put in a large parking lot to provide parking for the businesses on Lake Street and report back.
Motion (LL, MG)
Motion for EPIC to support the temporary leasing for construction of a temporary parking lot secured with gates, camera and lights, but that the City retain public ownership of property for the East Phillips Commons Project. Motion passed.
Lights on Bloomington Avenue
PRG has some money to put pedestrian lighting on the two condominium units planned at 24th and Bloomington Avenue. Could we ask Welna’s to do the same? EPIC may have some money for additional pedestrian lighting elsewhere on Bloomington Avenue.
LL and RB drove around the neighborhood and collected a list of two dozen lighting concerns. You can go online at HYPERLINK "http://www.xcel.com" www.xcel.com to report these lights out. LL reported 15 lights out or intermittent lights out. There should be a response within two weeks. RB took note of three particularly dark areas (he has funding to remediate these problem areas.) There is almost no lighting in the alley on Cedar between E. 26th Street and Ogema. This is a stretch of about two blocks.
Xcel Energy reported that it costs about $6-8 per month to install your own security lighting. Neighbors could get together to put additional lighting in streets and alleys. EPIC should report this to the City Council and Public Works.
Parking on 24th Street
CP is calling Dean Zimmerman’s office to try to get the No Parking signs removed on 24th Street.
Budget for 501(c)(3) Application
The CDBG budget was approved with the following corrections:
Item number 3 – deleted “Child care expenses.”
Item number 5 – deleted the entire item.
Remove Andy and Albin from list of directors.
Change the amount for Annual meeting, entertainment, hall rental from $1000 to $750.
Change the amount for Additional admin. expenses…from $500 to $750.
General Liability Insurance
CP reported that she had determined that the $1,000 is for general liability insurance. This is required since we are holding public meetings. Payment is approved.
Reimbursements
LL submitted receipts for reimbursement of expenses for the annual meeting last March. Payment to LL in the amount of $268.07 was approved.
Financial Policies
MG and CP prepared proposed financial policies to be submitted in conjunction with our 501(c)(3) application. The proposed financial policy is a blending of the existing EPIC financial policies and samples that were provided by Robert Thompson from NRP. In addition, “procedures” were deleted from the policy – so that the policy includes general statements describing “what” EPIC does with money. These policies should be general enough so that they do not require frequent changes. In addition, the policies need to be approved by the general membership.
Specific procedures stating “how” EPIC manages money, including step by step descriptions of performing financial tasks will be adopted by the board and are included in the 501(C)(3) application.
CP, HL and MG will meet again on Tuesday evening at HL’s house to review and finalize the policy for presentation to the September GMM.
Discussion of Board Business
HL expressed disappointment that the board doesn’t seem to have enough time to address issues that are of great concern to her, including youth employment, crime, etc. CP noted that if we can put together a budget, learn to operate by Roberts Rules of Order, and create financial responsibility, the neighborhood will be able to begin working on these more important issues. Unless this administrative work is done, the organization will stall out completely.
Additional Board Meeting
MG proposed an additional board meeting 3-5 days after the GMM for board directors to review the “to do list” and schedule whatever meetings, projects need to be completed.
New Board Directors
Discussed potential candidates for board directors.
Mark Welna
Rose Pluvois
Stephanie Allen
Daco Abdi
Aden Awil
Latisce Williams
Amy Pass
Jenny Gonsior
Agenda for GMM
Submit agenda items to the chair.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:52 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Mary Gonsior, Secretary
CDBG = Community Development Block Grant
EBM = EPIC Board Meeting
EPC 17th Ave. Garden Committee = East Phillips 17th Avenue Community Garden Steering Committee
EPIC = East Phillips Improvement Coalition
GMM = General Membership Meeting
GI = Green Institute
NRP = Neighborhood Revitalization Program
SWMCB = Solid Waste Management Coordinating Board
EPIC BOARD MEETING
September 3, 2005
2435 Bloomington Ave. S.
Thursday, August 11, 2005
Epic General Membership Meeting - August e2005
PRESENT
Directors Present: Carol Pass, Andy Engebretson, Albin Dittli, Linda Leonard, Mary Gonsior, Cynthia Aguirre
Members Present: Ryan Brueske, Brad Pass, Margaret Kirkpatrick, Stephanie Allen, Amy Pass, Marcelino Reyes, Alfonso Cruz, Sherzad Kordian, Aden Awil, Karen Clark
Directors not Present: Earl Simms, Hannah Lieder, Rosie Cruz
Guests Present: Kathy Wetzel Mastel (PRG), Gary Schiff
Meeting was called to order at 6:40 by CP. AD chaired the meeting. Agenda was distributed. Minutes from the last two EBM were distributed.
AGENDA
Motion (RB, MG)
Motion to approve agenda with correction to “Review of Minutes from July, ‘05.” Motion passed.
MINUTES
The minutes from the June 9, 2005 GMM and July 14, 2005 GMM were passed with the following corrections:
June, pg. 4, first paragraph: “BP reported that the EPC 17th Ave. Garden is owned by the GI…”
July, pg. 2, 501(c)(3): “CP will begin with the 2005 budget.”
July, pg. 2, Block Club Meeting and Crime Patrol: “…picnic with kickball and visiting.”
July, pg. 4, Strategic Planning, last paragraph: “…Jordan may be the only…” and “…neighborhoods with parks that …”
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Housing
RB reported that the 29th and Cedar Condo development has broken ground and is almost completely excavated. The 28th and Cedar project is due to break ground imminently.
Lake Minnetonka Fishing
LL reported that a group from Minnetonka has invited E. Phillips residents to bring kids out for fishing this Sunday (8/14/05) A similar event was held last weekend.
18th Avenue Block Club
BP reported that the block club welcomes any E. Phillips resident to join the block club on Friday evenings at 5:30 pm. They are looking for vacant properties, although their priority is to develop properties the City already owns. Residents may call Edie Oates, and city council members, and candidates for city council.
CPED
CPED’s longstanding housing rehab program has recently been expanded to include new housing. CPED is looking for vacant properties.
Motion (CP, MG)
EPIC will write a letter in support of the City through the HOWE program, acquire and evaluate problem properties for rehab or new construction, in particular the house at 2447 16th Ave.
Director Resignations
AE announced that he is moving out of E. Phillips next week and is, therefore, required to resign from the EPIC board. Andy expressed appreciation for fellow board members encouragement and support. He encouraged everyone to focus on working together for common goals in the future. AD announced that he will be moving out of E. Phillips before the next GMM and would also need to resign at that time.
REPORTS
July Action Items
501(c)(3)
The process on our application prepared by former EPIC directors took one year. Since we have to re-apply using a new application form, and because the IRS doesn’t understand much about NRP, CP acquired a copy of the application paperwork completed by Midtown Phillips and is using these materials as a guide for completing the new application.
CDGB Funding
CP asked CA, HL and MG to review the current EPIC Finance policies and propose revisions. EPIC no longer has an Executive Director or other staff. In addition, EPIC’s budget will be much smaller for 2005.
Insurance Refund
The insurance refund has been deposited into the checking account.
Insurance Payment
CP is reviewing the insurance policy with the insurer to determine that the current policy is appropriate for EPIC at this time.
Community Garden
The board must designate one additional EPIC director to the Garden Committee. (Still pending.)
The board has designated CA as the “official” liaison to the GI and EPIC has notified GI staff.
NRP Funds
Look into the reduction in NRP funds over the past two years to determine how much loss is the result of changes in Minneapolis tax revenue decisions. Consider how to respond. (Ongoing.)
Parking on 24th Street
Letter of support for the Franklin Townhome Association supporting additional parking on 24th Street was written. Need to follow up.
Community Center
LL will report on this later in the meeting.
Weed & Seed Meeting
CP reported that the speaker at the last meeting was Don Harris, who heads up the internal review of the performance of police officers. The meeting addressed how important the review process is in obtaining evidence and there is a need for a strong evidence gathering ability on the civilian review board.
Liga Hispana de Biesbol.
MR reported that the league held an all-star day at Parade Stadium, rented from the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. The event was a great family gathering and a good time was had. The league is growing and more teams are expected to join the league next year. MR expressed appreciation for all the help the league received from the community, the park board and other organizations that contributed to the success of the league.
Franklin Station Condominiums
KWM reported on the progress of the VIP project, Phase II. PRG is a nonprofit community director whose mission is to create affordable housing and strengthen neighborhoods and communities. PRG has been involved with planning the VIP project for the past 7-8 years. Phase II encompasses the south corners of 24th and Bloomington. On the E. Phillips side, the building is four stories and is designed to look like small-scale commercial retail on the first floor, but actually contains parking. The three floors above contain 24 owner-occupied, 2-3 bedroom condos, with similar affordability as the town homes. 20% are affordable to households earning less than 50% of median income and 20% to households earning less than 80% of median income. The Midtown building will have three stories; ground floor parking and the two floors above contain 12 owner-occupied, 1-2 bedroom condos. Partners on affordable units are Twin Cities Habitat and City of Lakes Community Land Trust. All Fundraising is complete except for $200,000 grant application to the State for additional affordability. The decision is expected in October. Projected Schedule:
September: PRG will submit site plan and zoning application and requests a letter of support from EPIC.
October: Gather marketing material.
November: Begin marketing of 36 units; must pre-sell 12 units.
January: Architect to prepare detailed plans for public bidding.
May: Begin construction.
KWM reported that the Midtown building meets R4 zoning. GS noted that zoning categories vary depending on the area of the project. Even though the project will be zoned R5, the plan does not maximize the density to the limit permitted by R5. KWM reported that Phase II environmental studies report that the site is “clean.” KWM requested a general letter of support for zoning variances and other regulatory approvals PRG may need to complete this phase of the project.
Motion (BP, LL)
EPIC write a letter enthusiastically supporting zoning and other city approvals requested, as needed for the Phase II Franklin Station Condo project. Motion passed.
Gang Prevention
GS is working with a new gang prevention program run by Mike Dale. The program is the best run in Minneapolis and works primarily with new immigrants from Latin America and Mexico. Mike works out of Holy Rosary, helping to build ties to community. CLUES and other youth programs with social services are working together to map our how to come up with a program to reach out to youth before they get in trouble. The City has NO plan or program for gang prevention, although the Park Board has youth services. GS is working with Hennepin County Youth Services to develop a culturally enriched program aimed at gang prevention.
Residents shared crime concerns with GS. Fighting gangs include Suppression (Police,) Prevention (very little,) and Intervention (almost none.)
DIAL 3-1-1.
This is a new city service; a non-emergency question line available 18 hours a day, beginning January 2006. (Library hours, snow emergency, graffiti, etc.) The line will be staffed by highly-trained, experienced operators.
Environmental Challenges and Possible Solutions in East Phillips
KC reported that arsenic is a poison; no amount is good for you and 10-12 parts per million (ppm) is considered “normal.” Many of our yards have a lot more than that. The arsenic in E. Phillips was caused by storage of a pesticide during the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s. The pesticides were allowed to sit and blow all over the neighborhood and seep into the ground. The liquid underground arsenic is moving toward the Mississippi River. The primary risk to residents is those yards where arsenic is present. We are getting mixed messages about the arsenic. EPA did a lot of testing; initially this testing was random. Now we know that every yard will be tested. EPA thinks it is okay to leave yards alone containing 95 ppm of arsenic - nine times higher than what is considered “normal.” This decision is based solely on the cost of cleanup.
The WEI has applied to a Foundation for funding to conduct a medical survey in E. Phillips and several close neighborhoods to discover whether there are patterns of health problems. Arsenic is known to be associated with a long list of health problems. An intern from the GI is investigating the history of the arsenic tests.
Resources for Testing: EPA said they might consider paying for personally collected soil samples, provided they were collected carefully, according to their established standards.
Motion (CP, LL)
EPIC will write a letter of support for the continued work of WEI on public health tracking, environmental justice investigations and surveys with regard to the arsenic cleanup. Motion passed.
Survey
LL reported that the survey was reviewed by a couple of groups. The general advice is to get different types of information from different audiences, using different tools, for example, focus groups. The present survey would be primarily useful for college-educated groups. A completely different tool would be useful with youth. The sample surveys conducted gave surprising results. LL asked that the Board be permitted to continue working on the survey.
New Policies and Procedures
CP distributed copies of the new policies and procedures that have been passed at previous GMM meetings.
Treasurer’s Report
CP reported that MG, HL and CA will work on financial procedures so EPIC can access CDBG funds. The balance in the checking account is $2,575.06. MG proposed that the Treasurer’s report be moved up to the front of the Agenda for future GMM meetings.
Community Garden
CA reported that the EPC 17th Ave. Garden Committee met and received the treasurer’s report from last year. At the last garden meeting, the Garden Group passed the garden agreement, elected CA as interim “liaison” and treasurer for the garden, reinstated and clarified policies regarding the steering committee. The next meeting will be at 10 AM on Saturday, Sept. 10. The EPIC board needs to appoint a second director to the garden committee.
Community Center, Report on Training Meeting
LL reported that Jay Clark and others suggested that EPIC actually hold one of their meetings at a neighboring community center. LL asked if residents would be interesting in touring some of these community centers. KC reported that the legislature has already passed a bill supporting the Park Board to spend money to plan a community center for East Phillips. The Board will take up LL suggestions at a future board meeting.
Motion (KC, MG)
EPIC send a group of individuals to go talk to the Park Board and ask them to put this back on their 2006 legislative agenda.
NEW BUSINESS
Block Club Meeting and Crime Patrol
LL would like someone to with her on a night-time patrol to report “lights-out.” BP reported that you must tell Xcel Energy whether the pole is wood or metal, and the nearest address.
BP reported that the crime situation on the 25th Street corridor is getting worse. The 18th Avenue picnic at 5:30 on Friday evenings has not been well attended lately, and residents are encouraged to attend. Keep calling 9-1-1.
KC encouraged residents to call the Mayor and request that the City replace E. Phillips police officers when the new officers are available (rather than sending them all to the North side.)
CLIC Capital Long Range Improvement Committee
CLIC has received another request for an asphalt and/or hot-mix storage facility. The two locations presently being proposed are 26th and Longfellow and 26th and Hiawatha. CPED and the City should get together with the community to determine what the best use is for this 10-acre property.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:10 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Mary Gonsior, Secretary
ABBREVIATIONSCDBG = Community Development Block Grant
CLIC = Capital Long Range Improvement Committee
CPED = Community Planning & Economic Development
EBM = EPIC Board Meeting
EPC 17th Ave. Garden Committee = East Phillips 17th Avenue Community Garden Steering Committee
EPIC = East Phillips Improvement Coalition
GMM = General Membership Meeting
GI = Green Institute
MPR = Minnesota Public Radio
NNO = National Night Out
NRP = Neighborhood Revitalization Program
PRG = Powderhorn Residents Group
WEI = Women’s Environmental Institute
EPIC GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
August 11, 2005 (DRAFT)
Holy Rosary Church
Directors Present: Carol Pass, Andy Engebretson, Albin Dittli, Linda Leonard, Mary Gonsior, Cynthia Aguirre
Members Present: Ryan Brueske, Brad Pass, Margaret Kirkpatrick, Stephanie Allen, Amy Pass, Marcelino Reyes, Alfonso Cruz, Sherzad Kordian, Aden Awil, Karen Clark
Directors not Present: Earl Simms, Hannah Lieder, Rosie Cruz
Guests Present: Kathy Wetzel Mastel (PRG), Gary Schiff
Meeting was called to order at 6:40 by CP. AD chaired the meeting. Agenda was distributed. Minutes from the last two EBM were distributed.
AGENDA
Motion (RB, MG)
Motion to approve agenda with correction to “Review of Minutes from July, ‘05.” Motion passed.
MINUTES
The minutes from the June 9, 2005 GMM and July 14, 2005 GMM were passed with the following corrections:
June, pg. 4, first paragraph: “BP reported that the EPC 17th Ave. Garden is owned by the GI…”
July, pg. 2, 501(c)(3): “CP will begin with the 2005 budget.”
July, pg. 2, Block Club Meeting and Crime Patrol: “…picnic with kickball and visiting.”
July, pg. 4, Strategic Planning, last paragraph: “…Jordan may be the only…” and “…neighborhoods with parks that …”
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Housing
RB reported that the 29th and Cedar Condo development has broken ground and is almost completely excavated. The 28th and Cedar project is due to break ground imminently.
Lake Minnetonka Fishing
LL reported that a group from Minnetonka has invited E. Phillips residents to bring kids out for fishing this Sunday (8/14/05) A similar event was held last weekend.
18th Avenue Block Club
BP reported that the block club welcomes any E. Phillips resident to join the block club on Friday evenings at 5:30 pm. They are looking for vacant properties, although their priority is to develop properties the City already owns. Residents may call Edie Oates, and city council members, and candidates for city council.
CPED
CPED’s longstanding housing rehab program has recently been expanded to include new housing. CPED is looking for vacant properties.
Motion (CP, MG)
EPIC will write a letter in support of the City through the HOWE program, acquire and evaluate problem properties for rehab or new construction, in particular the house at 2447 16th Ave.
Director Resignations
AE announced that he is moving out of E. Phillips next week and is, therefore, required to resign from the EPIC board. Andy expressed appreciation for fellow board members encouragement and support. He encouraged everyone to focus on working together for common goals in the future. AD announced that he will be moving out of E. Phillips before the next GMM and would also need to resign at that time.
REPORTS
July Action Items
501(c)(3)
The process on our application prepared by former EPIC directors took one year. Since we have to re-apply using a new application form, and because the IRS doesn’t understand much about NRP, CP acquired a copy of the application paperwork completed by Midtown Phillips and is using these materials as a guide for completing the new application.
CDGB Funding
CP asked CA, HL and MG to review the current EPIC Finance policies and propose revisions. EPIC no longer has an Executive Director or other staff. In addition, EPIC’s budget will be much smaller for 2005.
Insurance Refund
The insurance refund has been deposited into the checking account.
Insurance Payment
CP is reviewing the insurance policy with the insurer to determine that the current policy is appropriate for EPIC at this time.
Community Garden
The board must designate one additional EPIC director to the Garden Committee. (Still pending.)
The board has designated CA as the “official” liaison to the GI and EPIC has notified GI staff.
NRP Funds
Look into the reduction in NRP funds over the past two years to determine how much loss is the result of changes in Minneapolis tax revenue decisions. Consider how to respond. (Ongoing.)
Parking on 24th Street
Letter of support for the Franklin Townhome Association supporting additional parking on 24th Street was written. Need to follow up.
Community Center
LL will report on this later in the meeting.
Weed & Seed Meeting
CP reported that the speaker at the last meeting was Don Harris, who heads up the internal review of the performance of police officers. The meeting addressed how important the review process is in obtaining evidence and there is a need for a strong evidence gathering ability on the civilian review board.
Liga Hispana de Biesbol.
MR reported that the league held an all-star day at Parade Stadium, rented from the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. The event was a great family gathering and a good time was had. The league is growing and more teams are expected to join the league next year. MR expressed appreciation for all the help the league received from the community, the park board and other organizations that contributed to the success of the league.
Franklin Station Condominiums
KWM reported on the progress of the VIP project, Phase II. PRG is a nonprofit community director whose mission is to create affordable housing and strengthen neighborhoods and communities. PRG has been involved with planning the VIP project for the past 7-8 years. Phase II encompasses the south corners of 24th and Bloomington. On the E. Phillips side, the building is four stories and is designed to look like small-scale commercial retail on the first floor, but actually contains parking. The three floors above contain 24 owner-occupied, 2-3 bedroom condos, with similar affordability as the town homes. 20% are affordable to households earning less than 50% of median income and 20% to households earning less than 80% of median income. The Midtown building will have three stories; ground floor parking and the two floors above contain 12 owner-occupied, 1-2 bedroom condos. Partners on affordable units are Twin Cities Habitat and City of Lakes Community Land Trust. All Fundraising is complete except for $200,000 grant application to the State for additional affordability. The decision is expected in October. Projected Schedule:
September: PRG will submit site plan and zoning application and requests a letter of support from EPIC.
October: Gather marketing material.
November: Begin marketing of 36 units; must pre-sell 12 units.
January: Architect to prepare detailed plans for public bidding.
May: Begin construction.
KWM reported that the Midtown building meets R4 zoning. GS noted that zoning categories vary depending on the area of the project. Even though the project will be zoned R5, the plan does not maximize the density to the limit permitted by R5. KWM reported that Phase II environmental studies report that the site is “clean.” KWM requested a general letter of support for zoning variances and other regulatory approvals PRG may need to complete this phase of the project.
Motion (BP, LL)
EPIC write a letter enthusiastically supporting zoning and other city approvals requested, as needed for the Phase II Franklin Station Condo project. Motion passed.
Gang Prevention
GS is working with a new gang prevention program run by Mike Dale. The program is the best run in Minneapolis and works primarily with new immigrants from Latin America and Mexico. Mike works out of Holy Rosary, helping to build ties to community. CLUES and other youth programs with social services are working together to map our how to come up with a program to reach out to youth before they get in trouble. The City has NO plan or program for gang prevention, although the Park Board has youth services. GS is working with Hennepin County Youth Services to develop a culturally enriched program aimed at gang prevention.
Residents shared crime concerns with GS. Fighting gangs include Suppression (Police,) Prevention (very little,) and Intervention (almost none.)
DIAL 3-1-1.
This is a new city service; a non-emergency question line available 18 hours a day, beginning January 2006. (Library hours, snow emergency, graffiti, etc.) The line will be staffed by highly-trained, experienced operators.
Environmental Challenges and Possible Solutions in East Phillips
KC reported that arsenic is a poison; no amount is good for you and 10-12 parts per million (ppm) is considered “normal.” Many of our yards have a lot more than that. The arsenic in E. Phillips was caused by storage of a pesticide during the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s. The pesticides were allowed to sit and blow all over the neighborhood and seep into the ground. The liquid underground arsenic is moving toward the Mississippi River. The primary risk to residents is those yards where arsenic is present. We are getting mixed messages about the arsenic. EPA did a lot of testing; initially this testing was random. Now we know that every yard will be tested. EPA thinks it is okay to leave yards alone containing 95 ppm of arsenic - nine times higher than what is considered “normal.” This decision is based solely on the cost of cleanup.
The WEI has applied to a Foundation for funding to conduct a medical survey in E. Phillips and several close neighborhoods to discover whether there are patterns of health problems. Arsenic is known to be associated with a long list of health problems. An intern from the GI is investigating the history of the arsenic tests.
Resources for Testing: EPA said they might consider paying for personally collected soil samples, provided they were collected carefully, according to their established standards.
Motion (CP, LL)
EPIC will write a letter of support for the continued work of WEI on public health tracking, environmental justice investigations and surveys with regard to the arsenic cleanup. Motion passed.
Survey
LL reported that the survey was reviewed by a couple of groups. The general advice is to get different types of information from different audiences, using different tools, for example, focus groups. The present survey would be primarily useful for college-educated groups. A completely different tool would be useful with youth. The sample surveys conducted gave surprising results. LL asked that the Board be permitted to continue working on the survey.
New Policies and Procedures
CP distributed copies of the new policies and procedures that have been passed at previous GMM meetings.
Treasurer’s Report
CP reported that MG, HL and CA will work on financial procedures so EPIC can access CDBG funds. The balance in the checking account is $2,575.06. MG proposed that the Treasurer’s report be moved up to the front of the Agenda for future GMM meetings.
Community Garden
CA reported that the EPC 17th Ave. Garden Committee met and received the treasurer’s report from last year. At the last garden meeting, the Garden Group passed the garden agreement, elected CA as interim “liaison” and treasurer for the garden, reinstated and clarified policies regarding the steering committee. The next meeting will be at 10 AM on Saturday, Sept. 10. The EPIC board needs to appoint a second director to the garden committee.
Community Center, Report on Training Meeting
LL reported that Jay Clark and others suggested that EPIC actually hold one of their meetings at a neighboring community center. LL asked if residents would be interesting in touring some of these community centers. KC reported that the legislature has already passed a bill supporting the Park Board to spend money to plan a community center for East Phillips. The Board will take up LL suggestions at a future board meeting.
Motion (KC, MG)
EPIC send a group of individuals to go talk to the Park Board and ask them to put this back on their 2006 legislative agenda.
NEW BUSINESS
Block Club Meeting and Crime Patrol
LL would like someone to with her on a night-time patrol to report “lights-out.” BP reported that you must tell Xcel Energy whether the pole is wood or metal, and the nearest address.
BP reported that the crime situation on the 25th Street corridor is getting worse. The 18th Avenue picnic at 5:30 on Friday evenings has not been well attended lately, and residents are encouraged to attend. Keep calling 9-1-1.
KC encouraged residents to call the Mayor and request that the City replace E. Phillips police officers when the new officers are available (rather than sending them all to the North side.)
CLIC Capital Long Range Improvement Committee
CLIC has received another request for an asphalt and/or hot-mix storage facility. The two locations presently being proposed are 26th and Longfellow and 26th and Hiawatha. CPED and the City should get together with the community to determine what the best use is for this 10-acre property.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:10 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Mary Gonsior, Secretary
ABBREVIATIONSCDBG = Community Development Block Grant
CLIC = Capital Long Range Improvement Committee
CPED = Community Planning & Economic Development
EBM = EPIC Board Meeting
EPC 17th Ave. Garden Committee = East Phillips 17th Avenue Community Garden Steering Committee
EPIC = East Phillips Improvement Coalition
GMM = General Membership Meeting
GI = Green Institute
MPR = Minnesota Public Radio
NNO = National Night Out
NRP = Neighborhood Revitalization Program
PRG = Powderhorn Residents Group
WEI = Women’s Environmental Institute
EPIC GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
August 11, 2005 (DRAFT)
Holy Rosary Church
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