May 3, 2006 Membership Meeting of the Victoria Park Civic Association
President Thornie Jarrett called the meeting to order at 7:07 p.m.
Motion was made by Dan Gabbianelli to accept the minutes for the April 4, 2006 meeting. It was seconded by Larry Wallenstein and passed unanimously.
The Treasurer's report was presented by Mark Ketcham. Motion was made by Pat Mayers to accept the Treasurer's Report. It was seconded by Larry Wallenstein and passed unanimously. Dan Gabbianelli reported that the Audit Committee reviewed the books and did not find any indiscretions. Motion was made by Larry Wallenstein to accept the Audit Committee's findings. It was seconded by Fred Sistarenik and passed unanimously.
Thornie announced that Hans Hochkamp is meeting with representatives from FPL to identify, document and correct utility problems in the neighborhood, the Aesthetics Committee has decided not to pursue a Broward Beautiful Grant at this time, a meeting coordinator is needed to replace Myrna Pototsky and National NightOut will be celebrated on Saturday, May 13.
District II Commissioner Charlotte Rodstrom thanked those who supported her in her campaign and promised that she would work hard on behalf of everyone in the district. She is meeting with all the area civic associations and working on an already long list of suggestions that have been given to her.
City Manager George Gretsas gave a presentation on the status of the City. Subjects covered were organizational restructures, operational changes, finances, quality of life, labor contracts, traffic management, economic development, effects of Wilma, the CERT program and beach improvements.
Officer Waters reported that there were 37 Part 1 crimes (robberies and house/auto burglaries) in March but that number dropped to 19 in April. He noted that the alleys are havens for criminals and he recommended that the residents help keep them clean. A resident was arrested for making and selling pipe bombs.
Council of Ft. Lauderdale Civic Associations
Jay Holloway reported on his first meeting with the Council of Ft. Lauderdale Civic Associations. Topics of interest included steps that are being taken to control crime and the impact of expected premium increases for wind policies insured by Citizens Insurance.
Larry Wallenstein reported that the Committee discussed the Las Olas Lofts project and he made a motion that VPCA support Colee Hammock and City staff in their opposition to this project. Concerns are traffic and incompatibility with the neighborhood. The motion was seconded by Christine Campbell. Discussion centered on whether or not VPCA should give opinions on projects outside its boundaries. Although not located in Victoria Park, it was generally felt that the issues surrounding this project could have an impact on the neighborhood. The motion passed by a majority of the members present.
Larry also noted that the Committee's decision to not apply for Broward Beautification grants this year was the result of changes in the County's processes and because it was felt that it would be best to wait until completion of the Master Plan.
In addition, he announced that volunteers are needed for a median clean up on 15th Avenue on May 6 and that the pocket park on 7th Street between 14th and 15th Avenues is now completed.
Andrea Bamberg thanked everyone who participated in the annual Easter Egg Hunt.
Pat Mayers reviewed plans for the National NightOut Against Crime Party.
Janet Schlembach noted that planning will start in July. Committee members and volunteers are needed.
Vicki Zirkelbach noted that the deadline for articles is in 7 days (May 10th).
Catherine Maus noted that the windmill issue will be on the agenda for the May 10th meeting of the Board of Adjustments. She suggested sending letters and emails to the Board prior to this meeting. The contract for the grant relating to the master plan project has been held up by the County. A project for new townhouses in the 1600 block of 8th Street has been reviewed by both the P&Z and Aesthetics Committees.
Thornie reported that the CERT program is being reorganized and the City has found funds for classes for both new and existing members. He is getting a complete schedule of all classes from the City and will publish it in the newsletter.
Ted Fling reiterated Officer Waters' comments regarding the maintenance of the alleys.
Christine Campbell reiterated that residents should report any problems with lines or utility poles so FPL can get them repaired.
Jay Holloway noted that the Committee worked with P&Z and Aesthetics to develop a 15 point plan for development of the master plan project. The Committee is scheduled to meet at ArtServe the second Sunday of each month at 1:00 p.m. Tasks that have been assigned to volunteers and are underway include creation of a website, drafting a contract for a master planner and compiling a list of contacts.
As a result of a suggestion made at the last meeting to look into an alternate meeting place, Thornie reported that the auditorium at ArtServe charges $75 at a minimum and adds $15 hourly after 5:00 p.m. Information was not yet available for the Holiday Park Social Center.
Glenda Rowley noted that the City sent a letter to residents along NE 7th Avenue regarding their intent to install parking meters on that street between 2nd and 4th Streets. Motion was made by Bob Oelke to refer the issue to the Traffic Committee to research. It was seconded by Janet Schlembach and passed unanimously.
Motion was made by Hans Hochkamp to adjourn the meeting at 9:00 p.m. It was seconded by Ted Fling and passed unanimously.
Submitted by: Glenda Rowley, Secretary
