GGNA Board Meeting Minutes

Location: Fraher residence
Attendance: Sally Hamann, Erin Haase, Bryan Hill, Carl Wasielewski, Michelle Taufmann, Clarence Fraher, Johnny Elias and Will.

Agenda

Bank Accounts: Bryan Hill reported that Mid America on Western Ave. and Belden is our bank. There will be incentives for our members if they open accounts at Mid America.

Community Garden: Erin Haase reported that she will be seeking donations of seeds and flowers for the community garden; she also stated that we should look at beautifying the front of the school with grasses and other prairie grass that would grow well and require low maintenance. Other ideas presented by the group included planting at Haas Park and at traffic medians in our neighborhood. Last, but not least, there are volunteers who have stepped up through our website to volunteer. The count was nine and climbing. Erin stated she would contact businesses and organizations to help this effort.

Senior Study: Michelle Taufmann reported that GGNA and Alderman Flores teamed up to conduct a senior citizen research study from April 23rd to 30th, 2005. Currently, the study is in an outreach stage to get people involved. There where several methods brought up to seeking participation from seniors. There seems to be a roadblock getting into Campbell Terrace, but we will keep trying. We were encouraged to talk to our senior neighbors and give them fliers. The study will be in English and Spanish.

Newsletter: Michelle Taufmann reported the next one comes out in June. Bring your ideas for the next one. This is an opportunity to get ads and raise funds from a publication that has gotten good public reviews.

Fireside Fundraiser: Johnny Elias reported that so far there has not been much feedback about this fundraiser. He shared that we are seeking bowlers for $10.00, who should seek pledges to bowl, per pin or for a flat rate. We are seeking lane sponsors from local businesses for $100.00 and or any donation that may be used for a raffle or silent auction. Johnny also recommended the date get pushed back to May 21, or May 28, 2005. Therefore, it did. Carl will make a solicitation letter for sponsors and Clarence will design it. Pedro and Johnny have agreed to get donations.

Zoning: Clarence stated that the current owner is proposing a 40 unit planned development at the large vacant lot on Talman and Medill. The project is divided into 30 town homes, and a 10 unit condominiums. Four affordable units would be offered. The owner is seeking a zoning change to R4.5. The zoning committee will be presented with this proposal on Monday, April 18, 2005. IF the zoning committee approved the project, it would go before the community for a vote. Strong objections to the project were raised from many parties. Sally and Carl talked about curb cuts on Rockwell, and that these cuts will deplete parking spaces and that we should talk to the Alderman’s office about bringing these proposals to the zoning committee for review before they are granted.