MHCA Area Directors' meeting minutes

Present: G. Poulson, J. Sweet, M. Silbernagel, D. Lamb (presiding), C. Bunge, T. Jarvis, R. Rotter, F. Stautz, C. Robida, S. Schmidt, J. Gary, J. Lager, K. Reuter-Krohn

Also present: Greg Fischer, Nan Lager

1. Minutes: The minutes of the September 28, 2010 meeting and of the Annual Meeting were approved as distributed.

2. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a report showing a cash and bank accounts total of $18,354.74, along with other financial information. He pointed out a report of transfers of funds among budgeted programs and a report on expenditures for the Bison Prairie Gateway interpretative sign project.

3. Election of officers: A motion was made, seconded, and passed that the incumbents (Denise Lamb, President, Craig Robida, Vice-President, and Ron Rotter, Treasurer) be re-elected for the 2010-2011 year.

4. Neighborhood plan printing costs: D. Lamb asked for the Board’s advice on how many copies of the neighborhood plan to have printed for Association use. It was moved, seconded, and passed that five copies be printed for MHCA, above the minimum number required by the grant contract with the City.

5. Neighborhood Watch: C. Robida reported on several robberies that had occurred in the neighborhood. He indicated that he would be willing to re-start the Neighborhood Watch Committee, but that he needed help doing that. F. Stautz volunteered to help. D. Lamb indicated that she would run an article on this effort in the newsletter. C. Robida indicated that he would arrange a meeting of interested persons to develop a strategy for increased neighborhood safety and security.

6. Odana Hills Park concerns: D. Lamb indicated that Alder Pham-Remmele had referred to MHCA a complaint from a neighborhood resident regarding problems caused by soccer games and practice in Odana Hills Park. Considerable discussion of the matter followed. Suggestions made by Board members included having D. Lamb contact the City Parks Department about what might be done to address the problem, contacting the Madison Area Youth Soccer Association for information and suggestions, and running an article in the newsletter.

7. University Research Park concerns: D. Lamb referred to a series of email messages between a resident of the neighborhood and administrators of University Research Park regarding the use and storage of chemicals by a company in the park. After discussion, there was consensus among Board members that park administrators seemed to be addressing the concern adequately and that MHCA didn’t have a role in such matters, beyond helping residents get their concerns heard and addressed.

8. Development of Odana/Segoe site: D. Lamb indicated that development planning seemed to be moving slowly and that there was nothing new to report. She reported that she might facilitate a meeting of near-by neighbors to get input regarding their wishes and concerns on the matter.

9. Newsletter: D. Lamb reported that she had sent bills to newsletter advertisers, requesting payment for ads that had run over a considerable length of time. She hoped to gain revenue for the Association from this effort. After discussion of newsletter matters in general, D. Lamb asked approval for establishing a committee to explore issues involved in making the newsletter an electronic publication. There was consensus that this was a good idea, and G. Poulson, and T. Jarvis agreed to serve on the committee.

10. Green Team: J. Gary reported that she was applying for a grant to establish a Native American Garden at the Bison Prairie Gateway. She had consulted a team of experts to advise her on managing the Bison Prairie Gateway. They advised doing a burn in the spring at a cost of $250. There was consensus among Board members that funds budgeted to Green Team projects could be used for this purpose.

11. Midvale School garden gateway video: D. Lamb indicated that she had a copy of this video and that she would arrange to have it viewed by the Board at its January meeting.

12. Adjournment: Motion made, seconded, and passed to adjourn the meeting at 8:30.

Charles Bunge, Secretary

The MHCA Annual Meeting was held at Sequoya Branch Library on October 26, 2010, with some 50 persons attending. Denise Lamb welcomed those attending, and invited them to enjoy the refreshments.

Program:

D. Lamb introduced Marine Yoo, Madison Police Department Liaison to Midvale Heights, who made brief comments and answered questions. D. Lamb introduced Dave Cieslewicz, Mayor of Madison, who made comments, especially concerning the City budget and Overture Center. He also responded to several questions and comments.

Business Meeting (Denise Lamb, presiding):

Introduction: D. Lamb called the Annual Meeting to order and ruled that a quorum was present. She made a brief report on activities of the Association Board over the past year and some of her ideas for future activities. Members present asked questions and made comments on her report.

Election of Area Directors: D. Lamb presented the slate of nominees for Area Directors for areas 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 14, consisting of the incumbents. She invited further nominations. There were none. Motion was made and seconded that nominations be closed and that the slate be elected. The motion passed with no negative votes.

There being no other business, the business meeting adjourned.

Charles Bunge
Secretary

Present: G. Poulson, J. Sweet, D. Lamb (presiding), P. Haskew, C. Bunge, T. Jarvis, R. Rotter, F. Stautz, J. Gary, J. Lager

Also present: Greg Fischer, Judy Skog, Nan Lager

1. Minutes: The minutes of the August 24, 2010 meeting were approved as distributed.

2. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a report showing a cash and bank accounts total of $20,739.84, along with other financial information. He expressed concern that the Association might not have enough funds to meet its obligations until the next membership drive. Various options concerning the newsletter were discussed, including distributing it to members only and making it available in electronic format.

3. Proposed development at Segoe and Odana: D. Lamb indicated that she had attended a meeting of City Urban Design Commission on September 22, where the developers presented their proposal for this site. They proposed a four-story building with 77 residential units, which is not in conformity with the neighborhood plan. D. Lamb spoke against the proposal. At the urging of the UDC, the developers agreed to hold a public meeting regarding the proposal.

4. Neighborhood garage sale wrap-up: A report was distributed, showing that 61 households registered to hold sales. The report showed income of $621.00 and expenses of $177.37.

5. Interpretive sign for Bison Prairie Gateway/Green Team : J. Gary reported that the dedication event for the interpretative sign was very nice. Costs of the project were in line with the budget, at around $1,400. Plans for a concrete approach pad for the sign were still in process. Board members gave J. Gary a round of applause in thanks for all her work on this project.

Nan Lager reported that the date of October 23 had been set for fall clean-up day for the Tokay median. City crews would pick up bags of trash from the day. J.Gary reported that she was in the process of deciding whether or not to have a burn-off at the Gateway site.

6. Annual Meeting planning: D. Lamb announced that the both the Mayor and the neighborhood police officer had agreed to speak at the Annual Meeting, which would start at 6:30. She indicated that she would be out of town October 11 to October 25, meaning that others would have to take care of last-minute planning. G. Poulson agreed to obtain liquid refreshments and napkins, while J. Gary agreed to obtain cookies.

7. Community Car update: Judy Skog asked for an update on the Board’s intent regarding a contribution to the Community Car program. Board members expressed concern about the viability of the program, especially before the new apartments at Sequoya Commons are finished. Board members also expressed concern about the Association’s financial situation and its ability to contribute to the program. No action was taken, pending gaining further information on the program.

8. Cultural Garden funding: D. Lamb distributed a proposed budget for the project to build a cultural garden at Midvale School. P. Haskew provided information on the plans for the garden. Motion was made, seconded, and passed to make a $500 contribution to the project. R. Rotter indicated that $319 was already on hand for the project from contributions during the membership drive and that the remaining funds could be transferred from the T-Ball account.

9. Membership Committee: Greg Fischer reported that the Membership Committee had experienced some trouble finding meeting dates. The committee had agreed that MHCA should stay with the two-year membership cycle, but that a one-year option at a reduced price should be available for the last year of the cycle.

10. Adjournment: Motion made, seconded, and passed to adjourn the meeting at 8:25.

Charles Bunge, Secretary

Present: G. Poulson, J. Sweet, M. Silbernagel, D. Lamb (presiding), C. Bunge, T. Jarvis, R. Rotter, S. Schmidt, J. Gary

Also present: Greg Fischer

1. Minutes: The minutes of the June 22, 2010 meeting were approved as distributed.

2. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a report showing a cash and bank accounts total of $21,172.20, along with other financial information. He noted the income figures from T-ball and the figures for the Annual Picnic. He pointed out that the newsletter was consistently the highest cost item for the Association. D. Lamb indicated that she would make a concentrated effort to collect money for advertisements in the newsletter to help offset this cost.

3. Proposed development at Segoe and Odana: D. Lamb indicated that she had been in contact with the developers of the agronomy association site and that they had said that work on design and financing was still underway. D. Lamb indicated that she had urged the developers to host a meeting with nearby neighbors to gain their input on the project. The developers indicated that they planned to come to the September Board meeting for a progress report.

4. Neighborhood garage sale: D. Lamb reported that some 60 residents had signed up to have garage sales. Planning for the event was coming along well.

5. Interpretive sign for Bison Prairie Gateway/Green Team: J. Gary reported that a tentative date had been set for dedication of the interpretive sign, September 26, 2010 at 3:00 p.m. She still needed to get City approval for placement of the sign. The display panels were in process. J. Gary had obtained one quote of $875 for installing the sign. J. Gary reported that the plantings at the Bison Prairie Gateway were doing well, and she distributed photos of them.

6. Annual Meeting: D. Lamb announced that the date for the Association Annual Meeting would be October 26. The place would be the Sequoya Branch Library. Various ideas for the program were mentioned and discussed by Board members, with some consensus around inviting the neighborhood police officer or the Mayor to speak and the idea of a wine tasting event. D. Lamb agreed to try to firm up ideas and to announce the program in the newsletter.

7. Community Car update: D. Lamb indicated that the organizers for having a community car at the Sequoya Branch Library site had been in contact with other neighborhood associations, but had not received a commitment for financial support. Motion was made and seconded that MHCA commit $750 for each of three years to support the project. After discussion, including expressions of concern about MHCA’s overall financial situation, motion was made, seconded, and passed to refer the matter to the September Board meeting.

8. Other business and announcements: D. Lamb and J. Sweet reported on their attendance at a meeting concerning neighborhoods and their participation in City planning and development. They felt that the general consensus at the meeting was that present processes were working, though some suggestions for improvement were made. D. Lamb indicated that a neighborhood resident had complained to her about the noise of early-morning garbage pickup in University Research Park. She planned to write to the resident suggesting that he contact neighbors for their opinions and support. D. Lamb indicated that she had learned that traffic calming features would be installed on Keating Terrace. She planned to gather further information and to put a report in the newsletter. Matt Phair, had been in touch with D. Lamb, indicating his intent to run for District 20 Alder and asking that any ideas and concerns of neighborhood residents be passed on to him.

9. Adjournment: Motion made, seconded, and passed to adjourn the meeting at 8:40.

Charles Bunge, Secretary

Present: J. Sweet, D. Lamb (presiding), P. Haskew, C. Bunge, T. Jarvis, R. Rotter, F. Stautz, C. Robida, S. Schmidt, J. Gary, K. Reuter-Krohn

Also present: Greg Fischer, John Walsh, Tim Kritter, Shana Weber. Michael Slaveny, Rachel Martin

1. Minutes: The minutes of the May 25, 2010 meeting were approved as distributed.

2. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a report showing a cash and bank accounts total of $22,992.65.

3. Proposed development at Segoe and Odana: D. Lamb introduced John Walsh, Tim Kritter, and Shana Weber, who presented information on their proposed development of the site at Sego and Odana Roads. Planning had evolved to breaking up the proposed building into two parts, to lessen the massiveness of the building. The developers had engaged a CPA/planning firm to do a market analysis for residential housing on the site. In response to questions from Board members, Mr. Walsh said that they planned to include “elderly friendly” units among the apartments in the proposed buildings. Board members, Michael Slaveny, and the presenters discussed the timeline for gaining approval for the project from City bodies, including the desirability of the MHCA Board’s taking action at its August meeting.

4. Cultural garden at Midvale School: D. Lamb introduced Rachel Martin, who reported that a new project was being planned at Midvale Gardens. The teachers at the school had written a curriculum plan, including the idea of a cultural garden that would bring families from different cultures together. She asked that the Board consider making a donation of $500 to this project. After discussion, D. Lamb suggested that Rachel Martin consider that the Board was receptive to the idea, but that a decision would be made at the August Board meeting, after the Board had a chance to see the budget for the project.

5. Membership Committee Update: S. Schmidt, P. Haskew, and Greg Fischer reported that they had met a couple of times to discuss ways to increase involvement of neighborhood residents in the activities of the Association. One idea would be to facilitate the formation of interest groups within the Association, including ones with a geographic focus. They planned to keep meeting and to place articles in the newsletter.

6. Green Team report: J. Gary reported that numerous plants were blooming at the Bison Prairie Gateway. She planned to plant more plants soon. J. Sweet reported that members of the Green Team had met with a City landscape architect to plan beds of roses at the Segoe and Midvale ends of the Tokay median at no cost to the Association. Board members reported that the roses had been planted.

7. Community Garden video: P. Haskew reported that he has a copy of the video about the Community Garden gate and that he will arrange to have it viewed by the Board.

8. Interpretive sign for Bison Prairie Gateway: J. Gary reported that she had been in contact with a graphic designer to have the sign designed. J. Gary would reconstitute the committee that was to help her complete this project, and she and the committee would bring the project to completion. Motion made, seconded, and passed that J. Gary be authorized to spend up to $1,000 to complete the project.

9. Annual picnic: D. Lamb reported that final plans for the picnic were in place. Board members were urged to attend and to encourage their neighbors to attend.

10. Adjournment: Motion made, seconded, and passed to adjourn the meeting at 8:30.

Charles Bunge, Secretary

Present: G. Poulson, J. Sweet, D. Lamb (presiding), P. Haskew, C. Bunge, T. Jarvis, S. Schmidt, J. Gary, M. J. Armstrong, J. Lager, K. Reuter-Krohn

Also present: Nan Lager, Judy Skog, John Ribolzi, Christine Sveom

1. Minutes: The minutes of the April 27, 2010 meeting were approved as distributed.

2. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter was unable to attend the meeting. J. Lager distributed a report showing a cash and bank accounts total of $21,771.43.

3. Proposed development at Segoe and Odana: D. Lamb reported that she had been in contact with the developers who are proposing development of this site and that the proposal had not changed since the last Board meeting. She indicated that there had not been much response to her article on the matter in the last newsletter. She reported that she was still gauging neighborhood interest in housing for seniors. Other Board members added comments regarding the need for housing to allow seniors who sold their homes in the neighborhood to stay in the neighborhood.

4. Community Car proposal: D. Lamb introduced John Ribolzi and Judy Skog, who presented information on a proposal to site a Community Car vehicle at Sequoya Commons. This vehicle would need initial sponsorship of $13,500. Board members reacted positively to the idea and expressed interest in having the Association contribute to the sponsorship. D. Lamb suggested interested parties continue to investigate neighborhood interest in the project and to use the Association picnic as an occasion to provide information and gauge interest.

5. Green Team report: J. Gary reported that the Bison Prairie Gateway was in good shape and looks nice. Not as many thistles this year as last. Some new plants from Olbrich Gardens had been planted. Nan Lager and J. Sweet reported that City staff will plant roses in beds on Tokay, which will need to be watered weekly – volunteers needed. They received a number of plants from Olbrich Gardens to be planted in the Tokay median beds.

6. Babysitting co-op: S. Schmidt reported that meetings continue in a low-key fashion. She planned to provide information to interested people at the picnic in June.

7. Membership committee: S. Schmidt and D. Lamb reported that a meeting would be held with interested people. P. Haskew volunteered to be part of the committee.

8. Annual picnic: Christine Sveom reported that plans for the picnic were well underway, with projected expenditures of some $650. The date for the event will be June 24, with a July 1 rain date. MHCA will provide brats for the main dish, along with hotdogs and a veggie option. There will be music. An invitation postcard will be sent to all neighborhood residents. There will be tables with information about various Association activities. Board members suggested the use of nametags for attendees.

9. Other business: D. Lamb announced that there would be a public hearing on the new Madison zoning code on June 23. She indicated that there were no new developments on the HiVee store to be built at Westgate. A resident of the neighborhood had raised concern about the appearance of the façade of a store on Whitney way. Board members felt that the grating in question was part of the store’s décor and did not seem to be a problem. Other matters discussed included newsletter distribution in apartment buildings, possible translation of the newsletter into Spanish, and traffic problems on Odana Lane.

10. Adjournment: Motion made, seconded, and passed to adjourn the meeting.

Charles Bunge, Secretary

Present: G. Poulson, J. Sweet, M. Silbernagel, D. Lamb (presiding), P. Haskew, C. Bunge, T. Jarvis, R. Rotter, F. Stautz, C. Robida, J. Gary, M. J. Armstrong, J. Lager

Also present: Carousel Bayrd, Nan Lager, Paula Gobel, Leo Gobel, Julie Furset, Pat Doran

1. Minutes: The minutes of the March 23, 2010 meeting were approved as distributed.

2. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a treasurer’s report showing total cash and bank accounts of $22,796.43, along with other financial information. He reported that money from t-ball registrations was coming in. During the discussion of the report, Board members mentioned that Michael Pressman, MHCA T-Ball Commissioner would be honored by MHCA with a plaque in the Sequoya Branch Library, in token of all his hard work with the t-ball program and in connection with MHCA’s contribution to the Sequoya Branch Library endowment fund.

3. Proposed development at Segoe and Odana: D. Lamb reported that she had been in contact with the developers who are proposing development of this site and that the proposal had not changed since the last Board meeting. She urged members of the Board and neighbors near the site to weigh in on the project proposals. Paula and Leo Gobel, Julie Furset, and Pat Doran, residents living near the site, commented to the Board on the proposal. D. Lamb indicated that she would appoint a committee, consisting of members of the neighborhood plan committee and near-by neighbors, to meet with the developers, monitor conformity of proposals to the neighborhood plan, and to report to the Board.

4. Green Team report: J. Sweet showed the Board a t-shirt that the city Parks Department had given to volunteers who worked on the Tokay median on the recent clean-up day. Nan Lager reported that 10 volunteers had participated in clean-up day and had accomplished a lot. She reported that more work was needed. Board members commented positively on the blooms from the bulbs that had been planted last fall. J. Gary reported that work had been done on the Bison Prairie Gateway and that it was in good shape. She reported that she was taking pictures of the Gateway for future display.

5. Babysitting co-op: S. Schmidt was unable to attend the meeting, so there was no report on this project.

6. Annual picnic: D. Lamb reported that planning for the annual picnic was going forward. The date for the event will be June 24, with a July 1 rain date. MHCA will provide brats for the main dish. There will be music. A flier will be sent to all neighborhood residents, along with the garage sale flier. Board members agreed that there should be information available at the picnic on what MHCA does to benefit the neighborhood.

7. Membership committee: D. Lamb announced that she is working on setting up a membership committee to discuss recruiting members, member benefits, and related matters. Shelley Schmidt will chair the committee, and a meeting should be held in the fall.

8. Garage sale: D. Lamb announced that plans were going forward fort the annual neighborhood garage sale on Labor Day weekend. A flier would be sent out, including a registration form, which would also be printed in the Association newsletter.

9. County Board report: Carousel Bayrd made a brief report on the County Board, including her committee activities. She reported that funding had been allocated for the beltline/Verona Rd. intersection project, and she provided some information on the project and its potential impact on the neighborhood. She reported being involved in work on a medication drop program, in which county residents could dispose of medications in a safe fashion.

10. Other business: J. Sweet showed the Board historical display panels that had been used in the past and that had been in her basement. She asked the Board’s advice on how to get them stored safely for future use. R. Rotter offered to store them, after use by the branch library in a display. R. Rotter reported that the Road Home project to collect used furniture, which the Board had voted to support, was a success. Board members pointed out that a movie about the gates at the community garden at Midvale School, which MHCA had supported with funds, was shown in the recent Madison film festival. D. Lamb said that she would arrange for a showing of the film at a Board meeting.

11. Adjournment: Motion made, seconded, and passed to adjourn the meeting.

Charles Bunge, Secretary

Present: J. Sweet, M. Silbernagel, D. Lamb (presiding), T. Jarvis, R. Rotter, F. Stautz, S. Schmidt, J. Gary, J. Lager, N. Lager, K. Reuter-Krohn

1. Proposed development at Segoe and Odana: Representatives for the development company were again in attendance to present site development plans for the corner of Segoe and Odana. Concepts of size, massing, mixed used (commercial use rather than retail) presented –critical site to develop as buffer to Hy-Vee at Westgate. Plans discussed including market rate apartments--60 apartments in 4-story building on the Segoe side of site next to current 2-story apartments. Commercial building will be at the corner with walk-way between the apartments and the commercial building. Plans to have the apartments ready to open in fall 2011 with efficiency, 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom apartments ranging in the $600 – $1250 price range. Recommendations to keep the apartment building 2-3 stories and look into senior apartments. Neighbors on Odana voiced concern about the parking lot and size of the building in proximity to their homes. Developers would like to return to the April 27 meeting to continue to present their plans.

2. Minutes: The minutes of February 23 meeting were approved as distributed.

3. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter reported no changes to January treasurer’s report.

4. Babysitting Co-op update: S. Schmitz reported that six families attended a Tuesday evening gathering at their home to meet other families with children. Monthly potlucks, the first Tuesday of the month were scheduled to get to know each other. Plan to proceed slowly.

5. Plans for June annual picnic: J. Gary and D. Lamb met with picnic coordinators to discuss plans for the June 24 annual picnic. They are recommending: that the board buys brats, hotdogs, soda, and everyone in attendance bring salads and desserts; ask the block captains to promote the picnic and try to increase attendance; an article will be in the May/June newsletter to promote the picnic plans and a flyer will be distributed to promote the garage sale and picnic with a request for RSVP. Also recommended that we promote with signage the week of the picnic. More discussion at the April meeting.

6. Green Team: N. Lager announced spring clean-up will be scheduled and proposed April 24th to support Earth Day ( 40th anniversary). Signs will be put up and will post on the web site. New project includes the clean up of trash from the 8 parks/playgrounds in the neighborhood. J. Sweet will keep track of who has volunteered for each park. J. Gary, J. Sweet and N. Lager will meet on Sunday, March 28 with T. Jarvis to update the website. The bison prairie clean-up will be scheduled after the Tokay clean-up. J. Gary announced that she has a volunteer to mow the prairie and she has also purchased native plants. There is an Earth Day celebration Sat. April 24th at Westmorland Park.

7. Apartment Association: D. Lamb will contact apartment owners’ association and invite to a future meeting.

8. Proposed development of Segoe and Odana: D. Lamb asked for advice on how often to meet with developers. Motion was made, seconded and passed to coordinate meeting with developers, neighborhood plan steering committee, interested board members and neighbors prior to board meeting.

9. Book donated by Library to MHCA: R. Rotter shared the book Poisoner’s Handbook by Deborah Blum; he will read and bring to next meeting to share with others interested in reading. Also received an invitation with the book to a donor reception on Tues. April 13, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

10. Adjournment: Motion made, seconded, and passed to adjourn the meeting at 8:35 p.m.

Kay Reuter-Krohn (acting secretary)

Present: G. Poulson, J. Sweet, M. Silbernagel, D. Lamb (presiding), P. Haskew, C. Bunge, T. Jarvis, R. Rotter, C. Robida, S. Schmidt, J. Gary, K. Reuter-Krohn

Also present: Timothy Kritter, John, Bieno, John Walsh, Shana Weber, Gregg Schimanski, Mike Slavney, Jon Hoffman, Charlie Quagliana, Cathy Rotter

1. Minutes: The minutes of the January 26 meeting were approved as distributed.

2. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a treasurer’s report showing total cash and bank accounts of $18,924.63, along with other financial information. He reported that the number of residents who had paid their membership dues was about the same as in past years. The membership directory had been mailed to members, and Board members reported having received their copies.

3. Proposed development at Segoe and Odana: John Bieno, Timothy Kritter, John Walsh, and Shana Weber presented information regarding early planning for mixed-use development at the corner of S. Segoe Rd. and Odana Rd. They indicated that they envisioned a combination of multi-family residential units and offices, with underground parking. They hoped to have the project started in the fall of 2010, with a fall 2011 opening. In response to questions and comments from Board members and from Jon Hoffman and Mike Slavney, the presenters indicated that they planned to meet the guidelines of the neighborhood plan. They promised to keep the Board informed and to work with the neighborhood to make the development an asset to the area.

4. Proposed addition of an apartment at Ascot Hill Apartments: Gregg Schimanski, owner of an apartment complex on Ascot Lane, presented plans for making a one-bedroom apartment out of underused space in one of his buildings. His intent was that the apartment would be occupied by a resident manager. Board members asked questions, and Mike Slavney suggested that the project would be improved by reconfiguring the parking spaces near the proposed apartment. Motion was made, seconded, and passed that the MHCA Board supports the project, contingent on the reconfiguration of the parking spaces.

5. Babysitting co-op: S. Schmidt had to leave the meeting early, but D. Lamb reported that work toward the establishment of a neighborhood babysitting co-op was progressing.

6. The Road Home support: Cathy Rotter informed the Board that The Road Home is a project that supports finding homes for homeless people. The project is always in need of furniture for the homes. To facilitate donations of furniture by area residents, Cathy and Ron Rotter plan to have a truck at their home to receive donations, and to pick up large items from residents’ homes. There was a consensus among Board members that the Association should support the project, including having an article in the Association newsletter. Board members also suggested that participants in the annual garage sale should be urged to consider giving unsold items to this project.

7. Newsletter: D. Lamb announced that she hoped to get the next issue of the newsletter to the printer around March 1.

8. Outreach to apartment building owners and residents: D. Lamb expressed the need for MHCA to gain participation in its activities by owners and residents of apartments in the neighborhood. She indicated that Gregg Schimanski was willing to share some ideas with the Board. She also suggested getting someone from the apartment owners’ association to share ideas with the Board. She had the name of Nancy Jenson, and Board members encouraged her to explore having Ms. Jenson meet with the Board.

9. Green Team: J. Sweet announced that the City will plant red roses in the Tokay Blvd. median.

10. Adjournment: Motion made, seconded, and passed to adjourn the meeting at 8:00.

Charles Bunge, Secretary

Present: M. Silbernagel, D. Lamb (presiding), P. Haskew, C. Bunge, T. Jarvis, R. Rotter, F. Stautz, S. Schmidt, J. Gary, J. Lager, K. Reuter-Krohn

Also present: Nan Lager

1. Minutes: The minutes of the November 24 meeting were approved as distributed.

2. Treasurer’s report, budget discussion, neighborhood plan final accounting: R. Rotter distributed a treasurer’s report showing total cash and bank accounts of $22,460.46, along with other financial information. He pointed out a column of figures representing projected 2010 spending levels for various Association activities. C. Bunge pointed out that the “General Fund” figure in this column represented unbudgeted or “reserve” funds and that part of the budgeted amount for the library donation would not be paid until 2011. D. Lamb submitted a bill from Vierbicher Associates for $1617.50, which she said would be the last expense for the project. Also, $2,000 was outstanding from the City grant, which the City should pay when they receive final copies of the plan from Vierbicher Associates. She indicated that, after all expenses for the project had been paid, MHCA would owe the Westmorland neighborhood association some $3,000 as a refund on the amount that the association had advanced for the joint project.

3. Babysitting co-op: S. Schmidt reported that she and Jeff Maxted had talked to other parents in the neighborhood about the idea of a babysitting co-op sponsored by MHCA. They wrote a letter about the idea and got it out to a sample of parents. There had been a positive response. Board members supported the idea and encouraged her to move ahead on it, including putting an article in the Association newsletter about it.

4. Membership Committee: S. Schmidt reported that she had had one email response to the newsletter item about membership benefits and a membership committee. The sender proposed a plant trade among members who had extra plants at spring planting time. Board members discussed briefly the idea of a membership benefits card, along the lines of the Wisconsin Public Radio card. P. Haskew volunteered to be on the Membership Committee. D. Lamb indicated that she would write a charge for the committee and that she would try to get additional members for the committee.

5. Gypsy moth spraying: Carousel Bayrd, who was unable to attend the meeting, sent information regarding spraying for gypsy moth control in the neighborhood, which was distributed to Board members. An information session on the spraying had been announced for February 1 at 7:00. Policies and procedures for this year will be similar to those of past years. Board members discussed the matter briefly, including how to request expansion of the areas to be sprayed.

6. Membership directory: R. Rotter indicated that the 2010-2011 directory was ready to be dropped off at the printer. He distributed photocopies of the printer-ready pages. Board members thanked him for all his hard work on the directory and promised him that he would not be expected to do the next edition.

7. Newsletter: D. Lamb announced that February 15 would be the deadline for content for the March-April issue of the MHCA newsletter. She also indicated that she would be preparing and mailing bills for advertisements in the newsletter for the 2009 year, hoping to gain some of the revenue lost, due to the lack of a newsletter advertising manager.

8. Building addition on Ascot Lane: D. Lamb reported that the owner of some apartment buildings on Ascot Lane had provided her with some information on his plans to build a resident manager’s apartment onto one of the buildings, which would require a zoning variance. She distributed some drawings of the proposed apartment and reported that the owner is willing to meet with the Board, in an effort to inform the neighborhood about the project. Board members expressed the view that there seems to be nothing to object to in this project.

9. Other business: D. Lamb referred the Board to articles in the media about a group that wished to plant fruit trees in open areas in the city. The group had applied to do such a planting in Wingra Park, but their application was denied. A member of the Association had asked D. Lamb to seek the Board’s support for overturning this denial. Board members expressed the opinion that they did not have enough information to take such action, and the Board took no action on the matter. F. Stautz asked the Board if any members had experienced difficulties regarding large-item pick-up by the City Streets Department. He had noted a problem in the transition to alternative-week pick-up. One other Board member had been aware of such difficulties.

10. Adjournment: Motion made, seconded, and passed to adjourn the meeting at 7:55.

Charles Bunge, Secretary

Present: G. Poulson, J. Sweet, D. Lamb (presiding), P. Haskew, C. Bunge, T. Jarvis, R. Rotter, F. Stautz, C. Robida, S. Schmidt, J. Gary, J. Lager, K. Reuter-Krohn

1. Minutes: The minutes of the October 27 meeting and the 2009 Annual Meeting were approved as distributed.

2. Election of officers: A motion was made and seconded to re-elect the current officers. Current officers indicated that they were all willing to serve, though some of them indicated that this would be their last term. Motion passed with no opposing votes.

3. Treasurer’s report, budget discussion, library donation: R. Rotter reported that the Association’s financial situation was about the same as shown in his October report. C. Bunge distributed a report estimating income and expenses for 2010 and 2011. Members discussed additional expenses that might occur. Board members agreed to adopt a 2010/2011 budget at the January Board meeting. Motion was made and seconded that $10,000 be contributed to the Sequoya Branch Library endowment fund over a three-year period. R. Rotter indicated that he felt that some recognition should be given to Mike Pressman and the T-ball program, which has generated significant funds to allow this contribution to the library endowment. G. Poulson, as chair of the endowment committee, made a commitment to gaining such recognition. Motion passed, with no opposing votes (G. Poulson abstained).

4. Membership directory, benefits of membership: R. Rotter indicated that the Association directory was nearly finished. After proof reading and printing, copies will be mailed to the membership. R. Rotter said that he was not willing to produce the directory again. D. Lamb expressed the opinion that the Association needs a membership chair and perhaps a membership committee to handle the membership drive and to produce the directory. A discussion of benefits derived from membership in MHCA was delayed until a future meeting.

5. Green Team: J. Gary reported that volunteers had placed boulders in the garden at the Bison Prairie Gateway. She circulated pictures showing the placing of the boulders and of the garden in general.

6. Environmental challenge: D. Lamb reported that MG&E has issued a challenge to Madison neighborhoods to be involved in environmental projects. She asked the Board’s permission to get further information on this challenge and to apply for participation if it seemed appropriate. By consensus, the Board gave her the go-ahead.

7. Newsletter: D. Lamb announced that the January-February issue of the MHCA newsletter would be out early in January and encouraged members to email her content.

8. Adjournment: Motion made, seconded, and passed to adjourn the meeting at 7:50.

Charles Bunge, Secretary

Present: G. Poulson, J. Sweet, M. Silbernagel, D. Lamb (presiding), P. Haskew, C. Bunge, T. Jarvis, R. Rotter, J. Sherwood, F. Stautz, C. Robida, J. Gary, J. Lager, K. Reuter-Krohn

Also present: Nan Lager, Shelley Schmidt

1. Minutes: The minutes of the August, 25 and September 22 meetings were approved as distributed.

2. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a report showing total cash and bank accounts of $26,848.46, along with other information. D. Lamb pointed out that some $4,000 was still owed to the Westmorland neighborhood association as a refund from the neighborhood plan project. Also, she reported that there would be some expenses for printing of the final version of the neighborhood plan. There was some discussion of the budget for the next two years, including discussion of the Sequoya Branch Library endowment committee’s request for a $10,000 contribution over three years. There was consensus that the Board should adopt a budget at its November meeting, including a decision on the Sequoya Branch endowment request.

3. Annual Meeting: D. Lamb announced that arrangements were in place for the MHCA Annual Meeting on October 29. All incumbent Directors for odd-numbered areas agreed to be nominated to serve in 2009-2011.D. Lamb introduced Shelley Schmidt, who had agreed to be nominated for Co-Director for Area 11.

4. Garage sale update: J. Gary distributed a report on the recent annual neighborhood garage sale. Board members agreed that the sale went very well and that this is a good service by the Association to the neighborhood. Registered sales were held by 65 residents. Income over expenses amounted to $76.91. J. Gary thanked the many people who helped with the sale, including Abby Hammes and Jenny Herritz, next year’s co-chairs.

5. Green Team: J. Sweet and Nan Lager reported that the cleanup day for the Tokay plantings went well, with around 15 people participating. The Lagers planted bulbs afterward. The garden open house at 4805 Tokay went well, too. J. Gary announced that there would be a cleanup day at the Bison Prairie Gateway on November 7.

6. Electronic communication: D. Lamb expressed interest in communicating with MHCA members and neighborhood residents electronically. Board members suggested various possibilities, including using the communication capabilities of the MHCA website. R. Rotter mentioned that many members had provided their email addresses on their membership forms. D. Lamb and T. Jarvis agreed to meet and to see what was possible using these email addresses and the capabilities of the website.

7. Membership directory: R. Rotter indicated that he was coming along on producing the directory. Board members suggested dropping the numerical street guide part of the directory to save the tedious work required to produce it and the expense to print it. Other Board members expressed the opinion that this was a valuable part of the directory. Nan Lager, Shelley Schmidt, and Board members volunteered to help produce the directory, with a target date of Thanksgiving for completion.

8. Meeting regarding Hilldale Target store: D. Lamb and F. Stautz reported on a meeting they had attended regarding a Target store at Hilldale mall. Board members asked questions and offered comments on the matter.

9. Newsletter: D. Lamb announced that the November-December issue of the MHCA newsletter was nearly ready for printing. A report on the Annual Meeting would be included.

10. Adjournment: Motion made, seconded, and passed to adjourn the meeting at 8:20.

Charles Bunge, Secretary