MHCA Area Directors' meeting minutes

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

Also present: Nan Lager, Cathy Rotter, Mike Maddox, Jim Riffel, Dave Glomp, Peter Schell, Gwynneth Schell, Nicholas Keene, Chuck Kreimendahl

1. Minutes: The minutes of the November 23, 2010 meeting were approved with the addition of Matt Phair to those in attendance and of Charles Bunge, Secretary to the elected officers.

2. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a report showing a cash and bank accounts total of $14,338.37, along with other financial information. He noted that the second installment of the gift to the Sequoya Branch Library Foundation had been paid. A brief discussion followed.

3. Development of Odana/Segoe site: D. Lamb reported that some 30 people had attended a public meeting on January 23. The developers had downsized their proposed buildings somewhat. Previously proposed commercial space had been eliminated. Two buildings were still proposed, as well as a height of four stories. In general, most people in attendance opposed the development in its proposed form for various reasons. D. Lamb stated that, in her opinion, the best option for the Association was to continue to try to gain concessions from the developers on issues such as density, and on-site management of the apartments, as the process moves along. There was considerable discussion by the Board, but no formal action was taken.

4. Facebook page for MHCA: D. Lamb introduced Jim Riffel and Mike Maddox, who proposed setting up a Facebook page for the Association. They felt that this would be a service to the neighborhood, providing a way for neighbors to get to know each other, serving as a news source, and allowing neighbors to organize into small groups for various purposes. They demonstrated an example of what such a page might look like. There could be a link from the Association’s web page. In discussing the proposal, Board members reacted positively and encouraged interested persons to explore the idea further and to come back to the Board for a decision.

5. Soccer at Odana Hills Park: D. Lamb reminded the Board that it had discussed a complaint from a neighborhood resident that soccer play was dominating Odana Hills Park, with attendant problems for the neighborhood. She indicated that she had talked with Steve Donneger of the City Parks Department. He indicated that they had received no complaints or reports of problems. He said that there were rules on park use and that they would try to enforce them. He said that he would send contact information on the leagues playing soccer there next year, so that D. Lamb could contact them to encourage them not to be a nuisance in the neighborhood. C. Bunge reported that he had contacted several residents living near the park, asking if they had any concerns about soccer play in the park. All of them reported that they thought that use of the park by soccer players was a good thing and that they were aware of only minor problems with traffic and parking. C. Bunge volunteered to contact the original complainant to inform him of the above actions. Discussion revealed that no other action seemed appropriate to Board members.

6. Newsletter, membership drive, advertising revenue: D. Lamb reported that she had collected money from newsletter advertisers and that she was turning it over to the Treasurer. S. Schmidt indicated that there was nothing to report on the membership drive. D. Lamb reported that she had conducted an informal survey of other neighborhood associations about their policies and practices regarding their newsletters. Policies and practices varied. Most respondents didn’t mail their newsletter and most thought it would not be a good idea to eliminate a paper newsletter. Cathy Rotter reported that the committee that had been formed to explore issues involved in making the newsletter an electronic publication (C. Rotter, R. Rotter, G. Poulson, and T. Jarvis) had met and proposed that the Association should transition to an online newsletter, with printed copies available at the library branch. Extensive discussion followed. There was consensus that the committee should bring a more specific proposal to the next Board meeting, so that the Board could vote on the matter.

7. Neighborhood Plan: D. Lamb reported that the required number of copies of the neighborhood plan had been printed. She indicated that MHCA would soon settle financial matters with the Westmorland neighborhood association.

8. Vacancies: D. Lamb reminded the Board of the need to find someone to coordinate the annual neighborhood garage sale and someone to be the newsletter distribution coordinator.

9. Alder candidate: D. Lamb introduced Dave Glomp, candidate for District 20 alder. She indicated that she would be contacting other neighborhood associations in the district to arrange a candidate forum before the April 5 election.

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

Charles Bunge, Secretary

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

Present: G. Poulson, J. Sweet, D. Lamb (presiding), P. Haskew,
C. Bunge, T. Jarvis, K. Reuter-Krohn

Also present: Jeff Maxted, Shelley Schmidt, Libby Maxted.

1. Roll call: D. Lamb ascertained that a quorum of Board members was not present and adjourned the meeting.

2. Informal discussion: Although no formal action could be taken, the Board members present agreed to hold informal discussion of several items on the agenda.

a. Annual Meeting: D. Lamb announced that plans were in place for the Annual Meeting on October 29. It would be held at Westwood Christian Church at 6:30 p.m. She would arrange for refreshments. An article about the meeting would appear in the newsletter, which was soon to be distributed.

b. SWANS update: D. Lamb and C. Bunge reported on the meeting, called by the South West Alliance of Neighborhoods and Dane County Council of Public Affairs on August 26. They distributed handouts from the meeting and reported that no action was taken to adopt the “Madison Residents Bill of Rights” or “The Madison Community Code of Conduct and Behavior,” which had been proposed by the sponsoring groups. There was brief discussion of what MHCA might or should do to promote community in the neighborhoods in the area.

c. Green team: J. Sweet reported that Janice Gary had fallen and broken her hip, but that she was recuperating in good spirits. She reported further that Janice requested that other Board members keep an eye on the Gateway area. A cleanup day for the Tokay median was scheduled for October 24, the same day as another garden tour.

d. Neighborhood plan: D. Lamb reported that the City Council had adopted the Midvale Heights-Westmorland Neighborhood Plan on a 19-1 vote. Board members expressed appreciation to D. Lamb and the joint committee for their hard and effective work on the project.

e. Other matters: P. Haskew reported that it was very hard and dangerous for pedestrians or bikers to cross Whitney way from the bus stop at the intersection of Odana Ln., Whitney Way, and Medical Cir. Board members encouraged him to see what might be done to improve this situation. Jeff Maxted asked if it would be possible for MHCA to facilitate a baby-sitting co-op, beyond the listing in the Association directory. In discussion on this matter those present agreed that the Jeff and the Board should pursue making the Association more useful to young families in the neighborhood.

Charles Bunge, Secretary

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

Also present: Gary Poulson

1. Minutes: The minutes of the June 23, 2009 meeting were approved as distributed.

2. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a report showing total cash and bank accounts of $28,719.88, along with other information. He indicated that some money was still owed for expenses for the neighborhood plan project. Around 400 members had paid their dues. Income from the t-ball program was down this year. During discussion of the Treasurer’s report, R. Rotter reported that a staff member of the sign company had indicated that it would cost around $3,200 to replace the neighborhood sign at Segoe and Odana and that she doubted that there would be any City money to cover this cost. R. Rotter and D. Lamb said that they would gather further information about this matter.

3. Neighborhood plan update: D. Lamb reported that the neighborhood plan had been reviewed by a number of City committees. All had approved the plan, some with compliments on its quality. The plan would be before the City Council for approval on Tuesday, September 1. D. Lamb encouraged Board members to attend the City Council meeting and to register in support of approval of the plan

4. Garage sale update: J. Gary reported that 63 residents had registered to hold garage sales. The map for the sale had been completed and packets of information would soon be assembled.

5. Green Team: J. Sweet indicated that she would submit something to the newsletter about a fall garden tour. J. Gary reported that the Bison Prairie Gateway was coming along nicely. Board members asked about progress on the informational sign that was planned for the Gateway. R. Rotter reported that he had the stand that had been prepared for the sign. J. Gary indicated that, after the garage sale was over, she would work on bringing this project to completion.

6. SWANS report: D. Lamb reported that an organization calling itself South West Alliance of Neighborhoods, along with Dane County Council of Public Affairs, had developed a “Residents’ Bill of Rights” and “The Madison Community Code of Conduct and Behavior” to address problems in southwest Madison neighborhoods. The two groups were holding a public meeting on August 26 to discuss these documents and to get neighborhood groups to sign off on them. D. Lamb encouraged Board members to attend this meeting. She said that she would report back to the Board on this matter.

7. Library endowment request: D. Lamb reviewed the discussion of this matter from the last Board meeting, including the endowment committee’s request for $10,000 from MHCA over three years. Board members agreed that, in view of the fact that the Association’s two-year budget period was just starting, decisions on this matter should wait until the budget situation clarifies.

8. Annual meeting: D. Lamb indicated that she had been having trouble securing a meeting place for the MHCA annual meeting on October 29. She had reserved space at Queen of Peace Church and was going to look over available space at Westwood Christian Church. She asked if all Board members from odd-numbered areas were willing to run for re-election. None of the Board members present indicated unwillingness to run.

9. Area 2 Director: Gary Poulson was nominated to be Area 2 Director. He was elected with no dissenting votes. D. Lamb welcomed him to the Board.

10. Adjournment: Motion made, seconded, and passed to adjourn the meeting at 8:05.

Charles Bunge, Secretary

Present: J. Sweet, D. Lamb (presiding), P. Haskew, T. Jarvis, R. Rotter, F. Stautz, C. Robida,
J. Gary, MJ Armstrong, J. Lager, K. Reuter

Also present: Carousel Bayrd, Terri Goren, Nadie Pfotenhauer, Jean MacCubbin, Jane Roughen

1. Minutes: The minutes of the May 26, 2009 were approved as distributed.

2. Treasurer’s Report: R. Rotter distributed a report, showing a balance of $28,479.48. Thus far, $6,675.00 has been taken in with membership dues and we have 267 members.

3. Library Foundation Presentation: Members of the Madison Public Library Administration, Madison Public Library Foundation, Friends of Sequoya and Sequoya Capital Campaign Committee/Endowment presented to the board of directors. The individuals thanked MHCA for their past and ongoing support of Sequoya Library branch. According to their records, check-outs are up 7.6%, visits are up 16.2%, library registrations are up 113% and the meeting room space is 569% It was indicated they are raising $100,000 for their endowment, in which interest will pay for programming and resources. They requested a three-year pledge of $10,000 from MHCA.

4. County Board Report: C. Bayrd indicated that budget was the big discussion item and that they negotiated a 5% pay cut for all Dane County employees. She has heard several stellar comments about the new 911 Director.

5. Picnic/Garage Sale: J. Gary indicated the MHCA summer picnic would be held this coming Thursday, June 25 and that the same committee from last year was working on it again this year. She noted that she had received 10 garage sale registrations thus far.

6. Tocora Bike Path: D. Lamb noted that the City Council did pass this, and it is slated for the city’s fall schedule to be completed.

7. Green Team-Bison Prairie Project: J. Gary presented an update on the interpretive sign for the Bison Prairie Gateway. MJ Armstrong and C. Robida are going to become involved in finding a designer to work on this project and bring it to its completion. Planned dedication is for spring 2010.

8. Neighborhood Plan: The Neighborhood Plan is to be presented at the City Council’s July 7th meeting and then be referred to numerous city committees. D. Lamb expects the plan to be approved by the City Council in September.

9. Annual Meeting: Neighbor Mike Slavney will be the featured speaker, discussing the zoning code rewrite at the MHCA Annual Meeting, scheduled for the 5th Thursday in October, October 29. There was discussion about having the annual meeting at the Sequoya Library branch location.

10. Sequoya Commons Update: It has been heard that the developer cannot get funding for Phase II of the project. Westmorland is going to be contacting the developer about the current state of Phase II property.

11. Area 2 Director: D. Lamb indicated that Gary Poulson is possibly interested and she also heard a new neighbor to this location may also be interested. She will pursue.

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

Craig Robida
Vice President (in place of Charles Bunge, Secretary)

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

Also present: Alice Punwar, Gary Poulson, Carousel Bayrd

1. Minutes: The minutes of the April 28, 2009 meeting were approved as distributed.

2. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a report showing total cash and bank accounts of $25,532.35, along with other information. He indicated that 162 households had paid their membership dues and that money from the t-ball program was coming in. Time constraints had kept him for billing for advertisements in the newsletter for some time. D. Lamb indicated that she would try to find someone else to do this billing. R. Rotter indicated that he would mail a copy of the membership form to each household in the neighborhood (except for those who had already joined).

3. History book materials: D. Lamb introduced Alice Punwar , who edited the Association’s history book. She told the Board that she had been storing the raw materials and files for the book project and asked the Board to find a more appropriate place for them. R. Rotter volunteered to pick up the materials and to store them, at least temporarily. C. Bunge volunteered to check with staff of the Wisconsin Historical Society to see if its library or archives would be interested in the materials. J. Sweet reminded the Board how important Alice Punwar had been to the success of the history book project, and the Board responded with a round of applause in thanks.

4. Neighborhood plan update: D. Lamb reported that the draft neighborhood plan had not yet been submitted to the City Council by City staff. The joint steering committee had been asked to choose its top recommendations and to rank them. Some 40 persons responsed to the architecture survey that was included in the newsletter. Opinions expressed on the survey were divided. Use of the data would likely await the results of the zoning rewrite project by the City.

5. Green Team: J. Sweet reported that the tour of Eric Sandgren’s garden on May 9 was a success. J. Sweet and J. Gary had obtained some free annual plants from Olbrich Gardens and would add them to plantings on Tokay Blvd. J. Gary reported that crushed red granite had been applied to the Bison Prairie Gateway with good effect, and that more weeding and mulching was needed.

6. Midvale Blvd. street work: D. Lamb reported that the City Board of Public Works had dropped the proposal to place lighting in the median of Midvale Blvd and to assess property owners for it. The bicycle lanes were still part of the plan, even though there was opposition to them among neighborhood residents.

7. Bike path off Tocora Lane: D. Lamb indicated that a public hearing would be held on June 3 regarding the City’s proposal to build this path across Research Park property off the end of Tocora Lane. Motion was made, seconded, and passed that the MHCA Board supports the proposal. D. Lamb indicated that she would send a letter to this effect to the Board of Public Works and that she would testify at the hearing, as well.

8. Garage sale and neighborhood picnic: J. Gary announced that she would coordinate the garage sale one more time if no one else was found for the job. Planning for the picnic was proceeding. A mailing, with information about both events would be mailed to all neighborhood households.

9. Area 1 and Area 2 Directors: D. Lamb announced that these Board seats are still vacant. Board members asked Gary Poulson to consider being Director for Area 2. He said that he would consider this.

10. County report: Carousel Bayrd made a brief report on matters before the County Board.

11. Other matters: D. Lamb told the Board that she was considering having the City’s zoning rewrite project as a topic for the MHCA annual meeting. Board members responded positively to the idea. Board members commented on the unsightly condition of the construction site for phase 2 of Sequoya Commons. Motion was made, seconded, and passed that the Board requests that the owners of the unsightly vacant property at Sequoya Commons provide some beautification or screening for it if construction on the site is to be delayed. D. Lamb indicated that she would send a copy of this motion to the developers of Sequoya Commons, the alders for Midvale Heights and Westmorland, and the Westmorland neighborhood association.

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

Charles Bunge, Secretary

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

1. Minutes: The minutes of the March 24, 2009 meeting were approved with one spelling correction in item 9 (“Graham” for “Grahan”).

2. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a report showing total cash and bank accounts of $15,494.95, along with other information. Referring to a page of financial information on the neighborhood planning project, he pointed out that the City had reimbursed expenses for the neighborhood planning project, with more to come. He indicated that, eventually, MHCA would likely need to return some of the money the Westmorland neighborhood association had advanced for the project.

3. Neighborhood plan update: D. Lamb reported that the joint steering committee for the neighborhood plan had met to go through the input from the March 12 public meeting on the draft plan. The committee was conducting a brief survey regarding possible additional content in the plan about remodeling of residences and related matters. She indicated that a final draft of the plan had been submitted to the City for submission to the City Council. From there, it will be referred to various offices and committees for review and comment, before it is considered for adoption by the City Council.

4. Green Team: J. Sweet reported that the Tokay median cleanup and mulching went very well, with at least 40 volunteers participating. She received a donation of $100 from a Tokay resident and MHCA member, Richard Greiner, who was no longer able to work on the cleanup but who appreciated the beauty of the plantings. J. Gary reported that she and others were planning to walk through the Tokay plantings to see what replacements and additional plantings were required. Grant Hambrick had volunteered to help with trees in the plantings. The Bison Prairie Gateway plantings were growing well and needed work there would go forward.

5. American Transmission Company high-voltage line update: D. Lamb reported that the MHCA resolution regarding the transmission line had been turned in to the PSC. Several MHCA members made statements at the public hearings on the matter.

6. Midvale Blvd. Street work: D. Lamb reported that she had gathered further information on the proposal by the City Engineering Division regarding the resurfacing and drainage work on Midvale Blvd. from Mineral Point Road to Hamersley/Nakoma Rd., including a letter from the Division to property owners, notifying them of assessments for curb and driveway work, as well as for street lighting in the median. A public hearing on the matter was scheduled for May 6. Motion was made, seconded and passed that the Board of Directors of MHCA opposes the proposal by the City Engineering Division to assess residents along Midvale Blvd. for street lighting as ill-advised and unfair to these residents. D. Lamb indicated that she would see that this action was transmitted to appropriate City officials.

7. Bike/ped path off Tocora Lane: D. Lamb and C. Bunge reported that the University Research Park Design Review Committee had reviewed the City’s proposal to build this path across Research Park property. The committee voted to advise the Research Park Board that it would not oppose this proposal. Next steps included public hearings by the City and action by the Research Park Board to grant any request by the City for an easement to build the path.

8. Annual neighborhood picnic: J. Gary announced that information about the picnic would appear in the next issue of the MHCA newsletter and that a special mailing about the event would be sent to neighborhood residents.

9. Newsletter: D. Lamb announced that the May/June issue of the newsletter would be out by May 1.

10. Area One and Area 2 Directors: D. Lamb announced that John Eisenhauer had resigned from the Board, so that a new Director for Area 2 should be recruited. She also reminded the Board that a new Director for Area 1 was still needed.

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

Charles Bunge, Secretary

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

Also present: Jeff Maxted, Sherwin Rudman

1. Minutes: The minutes of the February 24, 2009 meeting were approved as distributed.

2. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a report showing total cash and bank accounts of $3,948.35. He pointed out that he had checks ready to deposit that would raise that amount significantly.

3. Neighborhood plan update: D. Lamb reported that some 60 people had attended the public meeting on the draft neighborhood plan. She also reported that the City would be providing the entire $40,000 of its grant for the project, but that $8,000 would be withheld until the plan was approved by appropriate City units. The planning committee was still discussing the appropriateness of some guidelines concerning remodeling of homes in the neighborhood and was considering some sort of “mini-survey” of neighborhood residents on the matter.

4. Neighborhood Watch: C. Robida urged Board members to attend the talk by the Neighborhood Officer for the Midvale Heights area on Thursday, March 26, at the Sequoya Branch Library.

5. Green Team: J. Gary, reported that an organizational meeting of the Green Team had been held. Nan Lager had agreed to be co-coordinator with Jean Sweet for the Tokay Blvd. plantings. Saturday, April 18, had been scheduled as clean-up and mulching day for the Tokay plantings, with April 25 as a rain date, and May 9 was the date for a garden tour at the home of Eric Sandgren. J. Gary also reported that she had been in contact with Kris Schutte regarding the informational sign planned for the Bison Prairie Gateway. Kris asked that some Board members look over her design for the sign and provide feedback on it. C. Robida and M. J. Armstrong volunteered to do this.

6. American Transmission Company high-voltage line: D. Lamb introduced Jeff Maxted, who distributed copies of a resolution that he and others had drafted opposing construction of a high-voltage power line in the Midvale Heights neighborhood. During discussion of the resolution, several editorial revisions were incorporated into the draft. Motion was made, seconded, and passed to adopt the resolution, as revised in discussion,and to present it to the Public Service Commission.

7. Membership drive: The Board confirmed the plan to put a copy of the revised membership form in the newsletter, followed by a mailing to all residents that did not sign up as a result of the newsletter insert. John Eisenhauer was not able to attend the meeting, so further discussion of the membership drive was delayed.

8. Bike/ped path off Tocora Lane: Some Board members had just attended a public meeting with Tony Fernandez, of the City Engineer’s office, regarding this matter. They reported that strong feelings were expressed by a number of people, both for and against the proposed paved path connecting Tocora Lane and Science Drive, through University Research Park. After brief discussion, Board members agreed that no further Board action on the matter was needed.

9. Annual neighborhood picnic: J. Gary announced that Ruth Monson, Steve Grahan, and Christine Sveom had again volunteered to coordinate the annual picnic, which was scheduled for June 25, 2009.

10. Area One Director: D. Lamb announced that Nina Goldberger had resigned from the Board, so that a new Director for Area 1 should be recruited.

11. County report: Carousel Bayrd gave a brief report on matters before the County Board.

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

Charles Bunge, Secretary

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

Also present: Jeff Maxted, Ferrine Spector

1. Minutes: The minutes of the January 27, 2009 meeting were approved as distributed.

2. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a report showing total cash and bank accounts of $3,375.85. D. Lamb pointed out that there should have been some additional revenue from newsletter ads, and R. Rotter indicated that he was behind in billing for ads.

3. Neighborhood plan update: D. Lamb reported that she and the planning committee were working on a revised budget for the planning project and that they were in contact with City staff to see how the project could qualify for the entire City grant amount of $40,000. Because the expenses for the project, beyond the fee for the planning consultant firm, had been low, the required match in expenditures by MHCA and Westmorland might be difficult to meet. The third public meeting, intended to consider the final draft plan, had been scheduled for March 12 at 7:00 p.m. at Midvale Lutheran Church A postcard mailing announcing the meeting was planned.

4. Neighborhood Watch: C. Robida announced that the Neighborhood Officer for the Midvale Heights area would speak at a public meeting on Thursday, March 26, at the Sequoya Branch Library.

5. Bike path off Tocora Lane into University Research Park: D. Lamb indicated that this there was still some opposition to the proposed bike and pedestrian path. Because of objections to the path from neighborhood residents, the City was going to schedule a public meeting on the matter. Members of the Board spoke in favor of the path and were encouraged to contact Alder Plam-Remmele to gain her support for the proposal.

6. Green Team: J. Sweet and J. Gary, interim co-chairs of the Green Team, reported that planning and member recruitment were in progress for maintenance and improvement of the Bison Prairie Gateway and the Tokay Blvd. plantings. J. Gary had accepted responsibility for coordinating efforts on the Bison Prairie Gateway, and J. Sweet was coordinating work on Tokay plantings, on an interim basis. Saturday, April 18, had been scheduled as clean-up and mulching day for the Tokay plantings, with April 25 as a rain date. In response to a question from a Board member, they reported that they had received no information about progress on the informational sign that had been planned for the Bison Prairie Gateway. In two motions, the Board approved expenditures of up to $150 for a burning permit and other spring maintenance and seeding for the Gateway.

7. American Transmission Company high-voltage line: The Board discussed various issues surrounding the routing of the high-voltage line. D. Lamb indicated that there would be an article on the matter in the newsletter, including announcement of meetings on March 24 and 25 for public comment on the matter. M. J. Armstrong and Jeff Maxted volunteered to serve on a committee to draft a motion on this matter, to be considered by the Board at its March meeting. D. Lamb indicated that she hoped that Bob Armstrong and Carousel Bayrd would work on the motion, as well.

8. Hy Vee Grocery store: D. Lamb announced that the Madison Plan Commission had approved the plans for a new grocery store at Westgate mall.

9. Membership drive: J. Eisenhauer shared with the Board some ideas he had for recruiting members for the Association. The Board discussed various issues involved in the membership drive, including ideas about the distribution of the newsletter. By consensus, the Board agreed to raise the two-year membership fee to $25.00. J. Eisenhauer agreed to draft revisions to the membership application form for presentation to the Board in March. The Board reacted favorably to the idea of putting a copy of the form in the newsletter, followed by a mailing to all residents that did not sign up as a result of the newsletter insert.

10. Adjournment: Motion made, seconded, and passed to adjourn the meeting at 8:45.

Charles Bunge, Secretary