MHCA Area Directors' meeting minutes

Midvale Heights Community Association
Board of Directors Meeting
June, 26, 2007

Minutes

Present: J. Sweet, M. Hoffman, M. Silbernagel, D. Lamb (presiding), R. and R. Meihsner, C. Bunge, T. Jarvis, R. Rotter, C. Robida, J. Gary, A. Edahl

Also attending: Lynne Yudice

1. Introductions: Those present introduced themselves.

2. Minutes: The minutes of the May 22, 2007 meeting were approved as distributed.

3. Treasurer's report: R. Rotter distributed a report showing a cash balance of $29,746.47, along with other charts and information. This amount included dues and contributions from some 30 additional memberships.
4. City report: Thuy Pham-Remmele was unable to attend the meeting, and there was no city report.

5. County report: C. Bayrd was unable to attend the meeting, and there was no county report.

6. Community garage sale: J. Gary indicated that 17 garage sale forms had already been returned.

7. Neighborhood picnic: C. Robida reported that, in spite of being rained on, the picnic provided good fellowship for a number of neighbors. Attendance was down from last year, due in part to the iffy weather. He thanked members of the Board who helped set up, and members of the Board thanked him for his efforts. There was some discussion about moving the site of the picnic to a park with a shelter.

8. Neighborhood plan update: D. Lamb indicated that the Association had received a grant of $20,000 from the City to develop a neighborhood plan, with the stipulation that MHCA cooperate with the Westmorland Neighborhood Association in the planning effort. The Westmorland association has agreed to do this. She indicated that MHCA would need to raise additional funds for the effort to be successful. The MHCA Neighborhood Plan Committee had met the night before the Board meeting. Board members asked questions and made comments regarding the planning process. There was agreement that the Association’s annual meeting in the fall should be a part of this process.

9. Newsletter: A. Edahl announced that the copy for the July issue of the newsletter had been taken to the printer. C. Bunge distributed a proposed policy statement regarding the size of the newsletter, advertisements, and other matters (copy attached to official copy of the minutes). It was moved, seconded, and passed that this statement be adopted (deleting the phrase “in consultation with the President” in item 1) for the guidance of the Editor.

10. Vandalism in University Research Park: Lynne Yudice, Assistant Director of the Preschool of the Arts, reported that the school has been bothered by some young girls who had been breaking into the fenced playground, scattering sand and toys, and generally making a mess. She asked that Board members who might know the parents of the girls inform them of possibility that the girls might get into serious trouble if this behavior continues. Members of the Board asked questions, made suggestions, and commented on vandalism and unwelcome behavior in the neighborhood in general.

11. Annual Meeting: (See item 8, above.) D. Lamb indicated that she would take responsibility for planning the Annual Meeting. Association business would include the election of Board members from odd-numbered areas. The focus of the meeting would be on the Association’s planning efforts.

12. ATC letter: D. Lamb reported that she had received a letter, as President of MHCA, from American Transmission Company, concerning the Association’s position regarding high-voltage electricity lines through or near the neighborhood. She asked the Board if she should respond on behalf of the Association. Board members indicated that, due to the complexity and controversial nature of the issues involved, it was likely not feasible for the Board to reach a position for the Association. D. Lamb indicated that she would respond to ATC as an individual, not as President.

13. Proposed city ordinance: D. Lamb distributed a letter from Michael Florek, of the Dudgeon-Monroe Neighborhood Association, asking support for a proposed ordinance regarding communication about proposed housing or commercial development in neighborhoods. Motion was made, seconded, and passed that D. Lamb should inform Mr. Florek that the Board agreed with the proposal in principle and encouraged those responsible for it to keep the Board informed regarding its refinement.

14. Santa suit rental: D. Lamb reported that she had received a request to borrow one of the Santa suits owned by MHCA and asked how to respond to it. Board members suggested that she call Stephanie Mikesell, coordinator of Santa visits, to confirm policies on the use of the suits. It was also suggested that D. Lamb discuss with S. Mikesell the advisability of getting an article about Santa visits into the newsletter.

15. Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 8:20 p.m.

Charles Bunge
Secretary

Midvale Heights Community Association
Board of Directors Meeting
May 22, 2007
Minutes

Present: M. Silbernagel, D. Lamb (presiding), C. Bunge, R. Rotter, C. Robida, J. Gary, K. Reuter-Krohn, A. Edahl

Also attending: Mike Pressman

1. Introductions: Those present introduced themselves.

2. Minutes: The minutes of the April 24, 2007 meeting were approved as distributed.

3. Treasurer=s report: R. Rotter distributed a report showing a cash balance of $20,993.26, along with other charts and information. This amount included dues and contributions from 444 memberships. He also distributed information on costs associated with the newsletter.

4. City report: Thuy Pham-Remmele was unable to attend the meeting, and there was no city report.

5. County report: C. Bayrd was unable to attend the meeting, and there was no county report.

6. Membership drive: R. Rotter distributed a chart to each Board member, showing which residents in his or her area had joined MHCA. Board members discussed how residents might be encouraged to join.

7. Community picnic and garage sale: C. Robida indicated that responses were coming in regarding attendance at the picnic. He asked for various forms of assistance, and Board members agreed to help. J. Gary indicated that 10 garage sale forms has already been returned.

8. Neighborhood plan update: D. Lamb indicated that she had not heard from the City regarding the funding of the MHCA grant proposal to support the development of a neighborhood plan.

9. Newsletter: A. Edahl announced that the deadline for the July issue of the newsletter was June 15. At the suggestion of the Board she agreed to hold completion of the issue until a report on the picnic could be included. The Board agreed that collation of the issue by the printer should be funded.

10. Baseball program: Mike Pressman, MHCA baseball commissioner, was introduced and provided brief information on the baseball program. Over 200 players had registered. The program will obtain some new equipment this year. Board members thanked him for his hard work on behalf of the program.

11. Announcements: D. Lamb announced that WISC TV was planning to do a feature story on MHCA, as part of a series in various city neighborhoods.

12. Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m.

Charles Bunge
Secretary

Midvale Heights Community Association
Board of Directors Meeting
April 24, 2007
Minutes

Present: J. Sweet, M. Hoffman, M. Silbernagel, D. Lamb (presiding), R. & R. Meihsner, C. Bunge, T. Jarvis, R. Rotter, J. Sherwood, Robida, J. Gary, A. Edahl

Also attending: Carousel Bayrd, Greg Bell

1. Introductions: Those present introduced themselves.

2. Minutes: The minutes of the March 27, 2007 meeting were approved, with the correction of Ann Edahl’s name in two places.

3. Treasurer=s report: R. Rotter distributed a report showing a cash balance of $9620.41, along with other charts and information. This amount did not include any deposits of T-Ball or new membership money. He explained the new format for reporting on various accounts, and Board members expressed satisfaction with the new format.

4. City report: Thuy Pham-Remmele was unable to attend the meeting, and there was no city report.

5. County report: C. Bayrd gave a brief report on issues before the Dane County Board.

6. Membership drive: R. Rotter distributed a cost breakdown on the current membership drive. He indicated that the mailing of membership forms had gone out to all neighborhood households and that 344 replies had been received.

7. Community picnic, garage sale, library branch mailing: C. Robida, J. Gary, and C. Bunge indicated that plans were on track for a mailing to neighborhood residents regarding the summer picnic and fall neighborhood garage sale, including an appeal to contribute to the Sequoya Branch building fund. The picnic would be held on June 21 and the garage sale on August 31 and September 1.

8. Neighborhood plan update: D. Lamb announced that a grant proposal had been submitted to the City. She expected notification in about two weeks. If the grant is not awarded, the Board would need to decide whether or not to proceed with the project.

9. Gateway project: J. Sweet announced that the spraying for thistles at the Gateway area had been generally successful, but that a few new thistles had come up. She had arranged to have these sprayed. Greg Bell reported on activities of a committee that had been working on an interpretative sign for the Gateway site. He showed the Board conceptual plans for the sign, on which the committee had agreed. In addition to the $400 already approved by the Board for this project, the committee projected needing another $300. Board members contributed reactions and ideas. Motion made, seconded, and passed to authorize another $300 for the sign.

10. Newsletter: A. Edahl announced that the May issue of the Association newsletter was at the printer. She reported that the printer had quoted a price of $60 for collating the issue, and the Board approved this for the May issue. Various issues related to the newsletter were discussed, and the Board agreed that these matters should be addressed at the next Board meeting.

11. Post Office substation: J. Sweet reported that her mailman had suggested that residents of the neighborhood initiate a petition to the Postmaster to have a postal substation re-established at Midvale Plaza. Ideas for a letter or petition from MHCA and from individual residents were discussed, but no formal Board action was taken.

12. Miscellaneous matters: D. Lamb read a letter from Gary Poulson, resigning from his position as Area 2 Director. J. Sweet and other Board members expressed their appreciation for his many contributions to the neighborhood and the Association. D. Lamb reported that she had been informed that the West District police staff would be conducting a safety survey and encouraged Board members to watch the media for further information. She also indicated that JoAnn Prange had requested donations for safety vests for those who work on the Tokay Blvd. plantings. She reported that the Midvale Community-School Garden project needed money. Board members pointed out that the recently mailed membership forms contained an option for contributing to this project, so that action on this matter was delayed. D. Lamb reported that another meeting was coming up regarding the establishment of a west side planning council. R. Rotter distributed an article about Michael Pressman, MHCA T-Ball chairman, and presented brief information on that program. C. Bunge announced that the University Research Park Board had decided to make a substantial gift to the Sequoya Library Branch building fund and that the Board specifically mentioned their positive relationship with MHCA as a reason for its gift.

13. Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m.

Charles Bunge
Secretary

Midvale Heights Community Association
Board of Directors Meeting
March 27, 2007
Minutes

Present: G. Poulson, J. Sweet, M. Hoffman, M. Silbernagel, D. Lamb (presiding), R. & R. Meihsner, C. Bunge, T. Jarvis, R. Rotter, J. Sherwood, G. Schuler, C. Robida, J. Gary, J. Lager, K. Reuter-Krohn

Also attending: Ann Erdahl, Carousel Bayrd, Mike Slavney, Charlie Quagliana, Rachel Martin, JoAnn Prange

1. Introductions: Those present introduced themselves.

2. Minutes: The minutes of the February 27, 2007 meeting were approved as distributed.

3. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a report showing a cash balance of $10,601.06, along with other charts and information.

4. City report: Cindy Thomas was unable to attend the meeting, and there was no city report.

5. County report: C. Bayrd gave a brief report on issues before the Dane County Board.

6. Announcements: D. Lamb introduced Jonn Lager, who had agreed to serve as Director for Area 14. He was elected to the position with a round of applause from the Board. D. Lamb and other Board members remarked on the successful alder candidate forum that had been co-sponsored by the Association. D. Lamb shared information on the projected construction at Midvale Plaza. She also passed around an announcement of a conference on urban infill development, to be held April 16. J. Gary shared information and impressions from a conference that she had attended on maintaining neighborhood character. C. Robida announced that the date for the neighborhood picnic was June 21.

7. Neighborhood plan update: D. Lamb announced that she had submitted a letter of intent, on behalf of MHCA, to apply for a City grant to support the development of a neighborhood plan for Midvale Heights. Charlie Quagliana and Mike Slavney presented ideas concerning the development of a neighborhood plan. Members of the Board asked questions and contributed ideas. A motion was made, seconded, and passed that D. Lamb be authorized to appoint a steering committee to implement the preparation of a neighborhood plan for Midvale Heights. Another motion was made, seconded, and passed that the neighborhood plan steering committee be authorized to prepare a grant proposal for submission to the City, including a commitment of $5,000 of matching funds from the Association.

8. Tokay plantings: JoAnn Prange presented information on plans for maintaining the plantings on Tokay Blvd. She announced a meeting on April 14 to plan the annual clean-up day for the plantings, as well as the date of April 21 for the clean-up day. She pointed out the need for more volunteers for routine weeding and maintenance. Board members contributed ideas for obtaining such volunteers.

9. Midvale Community-School Garden: Rachel Martin thanked the Board for MHCA support of enhancements of the Midvale School grounds. She shared plans for further development of the Community-School Garden, including the need for funding and volunteers.

10. 2007-2009 membership drive: R. Rotter distributed a draft of the membership form. Board members made suggestions for change. R. Rotter indicated that he would create a final version and would have it printed. Soon thereafter, it would be assembled and mailed to residents of the neighborhood. During the discussion of this matter, C. Robida, J. Gary, C. Bunge, and G. Poulson indicated that the announcements for the neighborhood picnic and the neighborhood garage sale would be sent out together in May and that this mailing would include an appeal for contributions to the Sequoya Branch Library building fund.

11. Newsletter: D. Lamb introduced Ann Erdahl, who had been appointed editor of the Association newsletter. The deadline for the May issue was set as April 15. Various Board members indicated that they would submit articles.

12. Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m.

Charles Bunge
Secretary

Midvale Heights Community Association
Board of Directors Meeting
February 27, 2007
Minutes

Present: G. Poulson, J. Sweet, M. Silbernagel, D. Lamb (presiding), R. & R.
Meihsner, C. Bunge, T. Jarvis, R. Rotter, J. Sherwood, G. Schuler, C. Robida, J. Gary

Also attending: George Merriman, Carousel Bayrd, Greg Bell, Paul Haskew,
Charlie Quagliana

1. Introductions: Those present introduced themselves.

2. Minutes: The minutes of the January 23, 2007 meeting were approved as distributed.

3. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a report showing a cash balance of $11,234.76, along with other charts and information.

4. City report: Cindy Thomas was unable to attend the meeting, and there was no city report.

5. County report: C. Bayrd gave a brief report on issues before the Dane County Board.

6. Gypsy Moth Abatement: Greg Bell distributed information regarding the Wisconsin Cooperative Gypsy Moth Program, including the aerial spraying program for 2007, which will include at least part of the neighborhood. He referred Board members to the web site, http://gypsymoth.wi.gov, for further information.

7. Neighborhood plan update: D. Lamb, Paul Haskew, and Charlie Quagliana reported that a small group of neighborhood residents had been formed to work toward the development of a neighborhood plan. They distributed information on the preparation of a neighborhood plan and shared their ideas regarding the process and costs. They also reported on
the City of Madison’s neighborhood grant program. Motion was made, seconded and passed that the Board authorize D. Lamb, P. Haskew, and C. Quagliana to submit a letter of intent to apply for a neighborhood grant for the development of a neighborhood plan and that they submit a draft of the application to the Board for approval.

8. West side neighborhood planning council: D. Lamb, C. Bunge, and T. Jarvis reported on a meeting of people from various west side neighborhoods to discuss the formation of a neighborhood planning council for west side neighborhoods. Representatives of most of the neighborhoods expressed ambivalence regarding such a council. The group agreed to meet again May 10 to consider the matter further.

9. Alder candidates’ forum: D. Lamb announced that MHCA would co-sponsor a forum for Alder candidates for District 20 on March 24 at the Sequoya Branch Library. She and representatives of other neighborhood associations would meet to formulate
questions that would be asked of the candidates. She asked for suggestions for such questions.
C. Bunge distributed a list of his suggestions for questions. Board members made further suggestions.
C. Bunge volunteered to attend the meeting with D. Lamb to formulate a list of questions.

10. 2007-2009 membership drive: Board members gave suggestions to R. Rotter regarding revisions of the membership form. He indicated that he would submit a final draft to the Board at its March meeting, so that it could go to the printer soon thereafter. There was a general discussion of ideas for recruiting new members. R. Rotter agreed to supply Board members of names of members and nonmembers in their areas. Motion was made, seconded, and passed to raise the two-year membership dues to $20.

11. Newsletter: D. Lamb announced that G. Merriam had put together the March issue of the newsletter and that it had gone to the printer. The Board thanked him with a round of applause.
D. Lamb indicated that, as yet, no one had come forward to serve as editor. Two names were suggested, and C. Bunge agreed to call the persons to see if they were interested. There was a general consensus that it might be easier to obtain an editor if the newsletter did not contain paid advertisements and that the treasury could accommodate this.
D. Lamb indicated that she and R. Rotter would continue to discuss the matter and would make a proposal to the Board before the next issue of the newsletter.

12. Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.

Charles Bunge
Secretary

Midvale Heights Community Association
Board of Directors Meeting
November 28, 2006

Minutes

Present: G. Poulson, J. Sweet, D. Lamb, C. Bunge (presiding), R. & R. Meihsner, T. Jarvis, J. Sherwood, Greg Schuler, C. Robida, J. Gary, H. Brassington, K. Reuter-Krohn, G. Merriman.

Also attending: Carousel Bayrd, Judy Skog, Avelino Pontes

1. Introductions: Those present introduced themselves.

2. Election of officers: The chair invited nominations for President. Denise Lamb was nominated, with a second. Motion made, seconded, and passed to close nominations and to elect D. Lamb. Motion passed without dissent. The chair invited nominations for Vice President. Craig Robida was nominated, with a second. Hearing no further nominations, the chair asked for a vote, and C. Robida was elected without dissent. The chair invited nominations for Treasurer. Ron Rotter was nominated, with a second. Hearing no further nominations, the chair asked for a vote, and R. Rotter was elected without dissent. The chair asked for nominations for Secretary. Charles Bunge was nominated, with a second. Hearing no further nominations, the chair asked for a vote, and C. Bunge was elected without dissent.

3. Minutes: The minutes of the September 26, Board meeting and the 2006 Annual Meeting were approved as distributed.

4. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter was unable to attend the meeting, and there was no Treasurer’s report.

4. City report: Cindy Thomas was unable to attend the meeting, and there was no city report.

5. County report: C. Bayrd gave a brief report on issues before the Dane County Board. She indicated that funding to fight Gypsy moths had been increased, and Board members discussed this issue briefly. In response to a question, C. Bayrd indicated that, after the recent passage of the referendum on the matter, the issue of new electricity power lines was in the hands of State officials.

7. Newsletter editor resignation: G. Merriman confirmed his earlier email announcement that he wished to resign his position as newsletter editor and advertisement coordinator. The Board thanked him for his hard work over the years with a round of applause. He expressed willingness to work with a new editor to make a smooth transition. Board members promised to think about possible editors and to share names with the President. G. Merriman indicated that he would run an article in the next issue of the newsletter, explaining the positions (editor and advertisement coordinator are two positions) and asking for volunteers.

8. Santa visit program: C. Bunge indicated that timely arrangements for 2006 Santa visits were not made, due to the resignation of the President. C. Bunge had spoken to the 2005 coordinator, Stephanie Mikesell, who indicated that she might be willing to be coordinator for the 2007 visits. In the discussion of this matter, Board members discussed the need for a calendar listing such projects and events in the newsletter. C. Bunge volunteered to write a brief article on the Santa visit program for the newsletter.

9. West side neighborhood planning council information meeting: D. Lamb, C. Bunge, G. Poulson, and T. Jarvis, reported their impressions from a meeting, called by Alder Tim Gruber, to discuss the possibility of a neighborhood planning council for the west side neighborhoods. They believed that such a body could be a good way for MHCA to join other interested organizations in addressing issues for our neighborhood and beyond. However, it could result in just one more layer of organization and meetings, using already scarce person power that might better work through existing neighborhood associations. Those who attended announced that there would be another meeting on the matter on February 1 and asked the Board to consider MHCA participation at its January meeting.

10. Sequoya Branch Library update: G. Poulson informed the Board that the architects for the branch had held a public meeting in which they shared preliminary planning for the space allocation and furnishing of the branch. He also indicated that fund raising among corporate givers was underway and that a kick-off celebration for the individual-gift phase of fund raising would be held late in January.

11. 2007-2009 membership drive: Board members expressed the hope that R. Rotter would again coordinate the membership drive. Members also indicated that they hoped that the Association directory would appear sooner in 2007. The President indicated that she would check on how much and what kind of help R. Rotter would need to make the membership drive and directory production go well.

12. City conference on neighborhoods: D. Lamb, J. Gary, and J. Sweet attended a city-wide conference on neighborhoods. They reported that they gained valuable information by attending.

13. Neighborhood plan for Midvale Heights: D. Lamb reported that she was in the process of gathering information on the development of a neighborhood plan. She obtained a copy of the Monroe-Dudgeon neighborhood plan. She indicated that she would share further information at future Board meetings.

14. Environment discussion courses: Judy Skog distributed a flier regarding discussion courses offered by the Northwest Earth Institute and asked for volunteers from the Board to coordinate the offering of such courses for small groups in the various areas of the neighborhood. Several Board members indicated interest in participating and suggested that the Association might fund printing of brochures for distribution throughout the neighborhood. J. Skog indicated that she would submit to the newsletter an article on the courses. In the process of discussing this matter, J. Skog indicated that she had experienced difficulty in finding out how to submit articles to the MHCA newsletter, especially submitting articles electronically.

15. Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m

Midvale Heights Community Association

Board of Directors Meeting
September 26, 2006
Minutes

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

Also attending: Carousel Bayrd, Don Severson, Brandon Casto, Judy Skog

1. Introductions: Those present introduced themselves, and S. Sussman announced that a quorum was present.

2. Minutes: The minutes of the June 27, 2006 meeting were approved as distributed.

3. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter was distributed two reports, covering July and August, 2006, and September, 2006, showing a cash balance as of September 26 of $16,733.23.

4. City report: Cindy Thomas was unable to attend the meeting, and there was no city report.

5. County report: C. Bayrd gave a brief report on issues before the Dane County Board.

6. Midvale Plaza re-development and neighborhood plan: D. Lamb and B. Casto reported that the developer’s plans for Midvale Plaza were approved by the Madison City Council, with some details still to be worked out. The plans must be presented to the Madison Urban Design Commission one more time. They indicated that the process of these plans’ being developed and approved pointed out the importance of neighborhood plans, developed by residents of the neighborhoods and approved by appropriate Madison city agencies. They reported that the Westmorland neighborhood has started the process of developing such a neighborhood plan, which could be costly in time and money. D. Lamb asked the MHCA Board if it was interested in pursuing such a plan for the Midvale Heights neighborhood. Board members encourged D. Lamb to continue exploring the process of developing such a plan and to report back to the Board. She agreed to do so. Moved, seconded, and passed to approve expenses submitted by D. Lamb for the work of the Midvale Plaza Steering Committee.

7. Donation to library campaing: G. Poulson announced that he is co-chair of a committee charged with raising the funds necessary to equip the new Sequoya Branch Library building. Some $975,000 needs to be raised. The Friends of Sequoya Branch have raised almost $200,000, and another donor has indicated that another $200,000 will be forthcoming, but much more work needs to be done. G. Poulson moved that MHCA contribute at this time $5,000 from its “Library” fund ($173) and the general fund, and that another $5,000 be contributed later. The motion was seconded. In the discussion of this motion, some Board members expressed frustration and disappointment regarding the process by which the location and size of the new branch building had been decided. Poulson added to his motion, with the approval of the seconder, that the second $5,000 donation could be made to fund some specific item or part of the furnishing of the new branch. Motion passed with no negative votes.

8. Garage sale: J. Gary distributed a report on the September garage sale, showing that the sale brought in $261.76 over expenses. The Board thanked her for her coordination and hard work with a round of applause.

9. Annual meeting: D. Lamb announced that plans for the annual meeting were in place. C. Bunge volunteered to preside at the business meeting, which would consist of the election of Board members for the even-numbered areas. It was moved, seconded, and passed that D. Lamb and J. Gary be authorized to spend up to $125 for refreshments for the meeting.

10. Resignations from the Board: S. Sussman announced that he was moving out of the city and would no longer be able to be on the Board or to be Association president. The Board thanked him for his effective service with a round of applause. There were no volunteers for the position, for which the Board will need to hold an election at it’s November meeting. S. Sussman also announced that Cindi Henige had resigned from her Area 13 Board seat (and from the vice-presidency). As of the meeting, no one had been found to fill this vacancy. She will continue to coordinate and host the collation of the newsletter.

11. Gateway project: J. Sweet announced that the thistles were growing back in some areas of the Gateway. These areas will need treatment again in the spring.

12. Odana Pond: G. Poulson announced that the Odana Pond oversight committee had met. They looked at and approved plans from MG&E to enhance the habitat around the pond. There is an ongoing study of the water quality in the pond by a testing company, with results expected in October or November..

13. Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 8:20 p.m.

Midvale Heights Community Association

Board of Directors Meeting
January 24, 2006

Minutes

Present: S. Sussman (presiding), N. Goldberger, G. Poulson, J. Sweet, M. Hoffman, M. Silbernagel, D. Lamb, R. Meihsner, R. Meihsner, C. Bunge, T. Jarvis, R. Rotter, C. Robida, C. Henige, J. Gary, G. Merriman

Also attending: Greg Schuler, Barbara Meyer, Robert Meyer.

1. Introductions: Those present at the meeting introduced themselves.

2. Minutes: The minutes of the November 22, 2005 Board meeting were approved, as were the minutes of the Annual Meeting.

3. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a report, showing an ending cash balance of $20,236.87, including details for various areas of activity. The Board discussed various aspects of the report.

4. County report: R. Fyrst was unable to attend the meeting, and there was no county report.

5. City report: C. Thomas was unable to attend the meeting, and there was no city report.

6. Vandalism and neighborhood watch program: Greg Schuler presented information and ideas regarding vandalism in the neighborhood and various ways that the Association might respond to this problem. Board members contributed ideas and opinions, as well, including suggestions for a brochure specifically on neighborhood responses, use of the Association’s website, and setting up a committee to plan and initiate a neighborhood watch program. Motion was made, seconded, and passed that a neighborhood watch committee be established, with Greg Schuler as chair. N. Goldberger, C. Henige, and M. Silbernagel volunteered to serve on the committee.

7. Odana Pond developments and committee meeting: G. Poulson reported that the Odana Pond Advisory Group, of which he is a member, had met. He summarized the meeting briefly. Robert Meyer presented a resolution that he hoped the Board would adopt (copy attached). The resolution called upon the Mayor and the City Parks Department to honor the deed restriction on the land on which the pond sits and to make written assurances that the MG&E pumping project will not be allowed to have a significant negative impact on the park and recreational use of the Pond. Moved, seconded, and passed that the Board adopt the resolution (as slightly amended) and ask the President to forward it appropriately.

8. Friends of Lake Wingra possible presentation: S. Sussman announced that the Friends of Lake Wingra had offered to make a presentation to the Board. After brief discussion, the Board agreed by consensus that the timing was not right for such a presentation.

9. Donation on behalf of Dan Nason: S. Sussman noted that Dan Nason, former Area 10 Director, had lost his wife, Vetta, to cancer. He proposed making a donation to the American Cancer Society in appreciation for all of Dan’s work and as an expression of our sympathy for his loss. After discussion, it was moved, seconded and passed that $100 be donated to some cancer-related service in Dane County, perhaps the one where Vetta Nason was treated.

10. Midvale Plaza development: D. Lamb reported that two meetings were planned, in which the owners and developers of Midvale Plaza would present first conceptual and then more detailed plans for redeveloping the shopping mall.

11. Election of Officers: S. Sussman turned the chair over to G. Poulson, who asked for nominations for the office of President. S. Sussman was nominated and indicated willingness to serve. Nominations were closed. S. Sussman was elected President unanimously. S. Sussman resumed in the chair and asked for nominations for Vice-President. C. Henige was nominated and indicated a willingness to serve. Nominations were closed, and C. Henige was elected Vice-President unanimously. S. Sussman asked for nominations for Treasurer. R. Rotter was nominated and indicated a willingness to serve. Nominations were closed, and R. Rotter was elected Treasurer unanimously. S. Sussman asked for nominations for Secretary. C. Bunge was nominated and indicated a willingness to serve. Nominations were closed, and C. Bunge was elected Secretary unanimously.

12. Election of Area 10 Director: C. Bunge reported that DanNason and two other residents of Area 10 were willing to serve as Director. D. Nason was nominated, and the nomination was seconded. Nominations were closed, and D. Nason was elected Area 10 Director unanimously.

13. Other business: D. Lamb announced that Carousel Bayrd was running unopposed for the Dane County Board, making the sponsorship of a candidates’ forum by MHCA unnecessary. C. Henige asked for a volunteer to host the newsletter collation project in March. J. Gary volunteered her home for this task. C. Robida asked the Board if there should be a neighborhood picnic in the summer of 2006. The consensus was that there should be such an event.

14 . Adjournment: The meeting adjourned 8:55 p.m.

Charles Bunge, Secretary

Annual Meeting
November 22, 2005
Minutes

The Annual Meeting was held in conjunction with a regular Board of Directors meeting on November 22, 2005. Some 15 members were in attendance. The usual social hour and program were not held this year..

Business Meeting (S. Sussman, presiding):

Election of Area Directors: S. Sussman presented the slate of nominees for the Area Directors from the odd-numbered areas of the Association, consisting of the incumbents. Motion was made that nominations be closed. Motion seconded and passed. Moved and seconded that the nominees be elected. Passed with no negative votes.

There being no other business, the meeting adjourned.

Midvale Heights Community Association
Board of Directors Meeting
November 22, 2005

Minutes
Present: S. Sussman (presiding), G. Poulson, J. Sweet, M. Hoffman, D. Lamb, T. Jarvis, R. Rotter, J. Sherwood, C. Henige, J. Gary, K. Reuter Krohn, G. Merriman

Also attending: Bart Lawrence, Barbara Meyer, Robert Meyer, Cindy Thomas.

1. Introductions: Those present at the meeting introduced themselves.

2. Minutes: The minutes of the October 25, 2005 meeting were approved.

3. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a report, showing an ending cash balance of $17,365.80, including details for various areas of activity. The Board discussed various aspects of the report, including the fact that there was a record amount of advertising and advertising income in the last issue of the newsletter. Some mention was made of placing a limit on the amount of advertising per issue.

4. County report: R. Fyrst was unable to attend the meeting, and there was no county report.

5. City report: C. Thomas made a brief report regarding City issues.

6. Bulk mailing of the newsletter: The Board held extensive discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of mailing the newsletter to all residents, using the Association’s bulk mailing permit, versus maintaining the current system. There was agreement by consensus that no change should be made at the present time.

7. Sign replacement cost: S. Sussman reported that he had received $2,200 from the City, as total-cost reimbursement for replacing the damaged neighborhood sign.

8. Library expansion: Jean Sweet presented information from the Friends of Sequoya Branch Library regarding projected space needs for the branch library. The current space is a little over 11,000 square feet, and figures from professional sources indicate that 24,000 will be needed for current and future programming. The agreement reached by the City and the developer includes some 19,300 square feet for the branch, raising concerns among library supporters. The agreement also calls for the City to pay 6.5 million dollars for a “shell” for the branch, with some $900,000 coming from fund raising to finish and furnish the branch.

9. Odana Pond project: The Board was informed that Wisconsin DNR has made the decision to grant a permit for MG&E to build and operate a groundwater recharge facility that would draw water from Odana Pond. C. Thomas reported that the City plan commission, as one of its conditions for approval of the project, required an oversight advisory committee, with representation from the neighborhood. She felt that five neighborhood representatives would be a good number. Board members suggested various names. C. Thomas will review suggestions and take steps to have members appointed. Various other possible actions were discussed, including appealing the DNR decision or court action to block the project. The Board agreed that those most interested should monitor the situation closely and should contact the Board by email if there is a need for MHCA action.

10. Other business: S. Sussman reminded the Board of the opportunity on December 13 to give information to Channel 27 news staff regarding neighborhood concerns. The Board discussed holding a candidate forum for the County Board election. D. Lamb volunteered to organize such a forum, to be held sometime in March. MHCA has been invited to have an information table at the City’s 150th-year celebration in April of 2006. There was consensus that this should be done. D. Lamb gave a brief update on Midvale Plaza development plans.

11. Adjournment: The meeting adjourned 8:55 p.m.

Charles Bunge, Secretary (from notes provided by G. Poulson)

Midvale Heights Community Association

Board of Directors Meeting
October 25, 2005
Minutes

Present: S. Sussman (presiding), N. Goldberger, G. Poulson, J. Sweet, M. Hoffman, M Silbernagel, R. Meihsner, R. Meihsner, C. Bunge, T. Jarvis, R. Rotter, J. Sherwood, C. Brown, J. Gary, K. Reuter Krohn, G. Merriman

Also attending: Joan Lawrence, Bart Lawrence, Barbara Meyer, Robert Meyer, Dan Schally, Cassie Wyss

1. Introductions: Those present at the meeting introduced themselves.

2. Minutes: The minutes of the September 27, 2005 meeting were approved as distributed.

3. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a report, showing an ending cash balance of $17,908.83, including details for various areas of activity. The Board discussed various aspects of the report.

4. County report: R. Fyrst was unable to attend the meeting, and there was no county report.

5. City report: C. Thomas was unable to attend the meeting, and there was no city report.

6. Eagle Scout project: Dan Schally described to the Board his project to keep leaves out of the storm sewers this autumn. He will put city-provided decals on or near storm sewer drains and will provide packets of information to residents near drains. Motion was made, seconded, and passed that the Board supports this project and authorizes Mr. Schally to mention this support to appropriate people.

7. Odana Pond project: Barbara Meyer, Robert Meyer, Joan Lawrence, and Bart Lawrence provided information regarding the MG&E proposal to build and operate a groundwater recharge facility that would draw water from Odana Pond and that could have negative effects on wildlife and other aspects of the area. Board members pointed out that this pond is an important natural resource for the neighborhood and beyond. There was consensus that the Association should have a committee that would monitor any such construction and operation and would report to the Board and others for appropriate action. Formal action to establish the committee was delayed until the November meeting.

8. Bulk mailing of the newsletter: Rita Meihsner reported that she had gathered some information on using the Association’s bulk mailing permit to mail the newsletter, rather than having it hand delivered by Block Captains. She recommended that the Association acquire a nonprofit bulk mailing permit, which would reduce mailing costs. In order to be bulk mailed, the newsletter would need to be collated and stapled, probably by the printer, with additional cost. Mailing costs would be around $250 per issue. After considerable discussion, motion was made, seconded, and passed that the nonprofit bulk mailing permit be obtained. R. Rotter and R. Meihsner agreed to take care of this. Other action regarding this matter was delayed to the November meeting.

9. Midvale Plaza and westside senior center: S. Sussman informed the Board that a well-attended meeting had been held to gain neighborhood input for the development of Midvale Plaza. He said that plans were going forward. Plans for building a senior center at Odana School Park were going forward, as well.

10. Channel 27 listening opportunity: S. Sussman informed the Board that members had been invited by Channel 27 News to provide input regarding issues of concern to the neighborhood. Several members volunteered to attend the listening session on December 13.

11. Food study: Cassie Wyss spoke to the Board regarding a study that she is doing on using photography to keep a diary of food intake. She invited members of the Board to talk with her if they were interested in participating in the study.

12. Sign replacement update: S. Sussman told the Board that he is still unclear regarding whether the City will pay the full cost of replacing the neighborhood sign that was damaged, or only half the cost. He will follow up on this and bill the City appropriately. Board members pointed out that the new sign did not have the same color scheme as the original.

13. Reimbursement of Rachel Martin: S. Sussman informed the Board that Rachel Martin had incurred expenses of $46.43 for refreshments at the neighborhood meeting about Midvale Plaza. Motion was made, seconded, and passed to reimburse her for this amount.

14. Miscellaneous matters: S. Sussman reminded the Board that the Annual meeting of the Association would be held in conjunction with the November Board meeting and that the Directors from the odd-numbered areas would be elected. J. Sweet reminded the Board that fall cleanup of the Tokay median plantings would be held Saturday, October 29.

15 . Adjournment The meeting adjourned 8:50 p.m.

Charles Bunge, Secretary

Midvale Heights Community Association
Board of Directors Meeting
September 27, 2005

Minutes

Present: S. Sussman (presiding), G. Poulson, J. Sweet, M. Hoffman, M Silbernagel, P. Baker, D. Lamb, C. Bunge, T. Jarvis, R. Rotter, J. Sherwood, C. Robida, J. Gary, C. Henige, G. Merriman

Also attending: Cindy Thomas, Carousel Bayrd, Stephanie Miksell

1. Introductions: Those present at the meeting introduced themselves.

2. Minutes: The minutes of the June 28, 2005 meeting were approved as distributed.

3.Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a report, showing an ending cash balance of $17,822,35, including details for various areas of activity. The Board discussed various aspects of the report.

4. County report: R. Fyrst was unable to attend the meeting, and there was no county report.

5. City report: C. Thomas made a brief report on various city issues. Board members asked questions and shared ideas with her.

6. Midvale Heights sign repair update: S. Sussman announced that the MHCA sign at Odana and Segoe had been replaced at a total cost of some $2,200. The City of Madison has a fund that covers such replacement, and he will submit a request for payment to the appropriate office.

7. Vacancies: S. Sussman announced that Dan Nason had resigned as Area 10 Director, due to his wife’s illness. A thank-you card was circulated among Board members for signature. The positions of garage sale coordinator, Santa visit coordinator, and newsletter advertisement coordinator are vacant, also. Stephanie Mikesell informed the Board that she would be willing to coordinate the Santa visit program if she had someone to work with her on recruiting persons to act as Santas. After discussion, the Board directed that all these vacancies be mentioned in the Messenger.

8. Gateway Project Update: J. Sweet reported that the seeding of the Gateway area around the bison had been completed by the landscape company. The area will have low maintenance grass.

9. Bulk mailing of the newsletter: This matter was tabled until a later meeting.

10. Midvale Plaza community input: S. Sussman and D. Lamb reported that the owner and developer of Midvale Plaza had been very cooperative in providing information on plans for upgrading Midvale Plaza. Difficulties in getting definite information from the City regarding the expansion of Sequoya Branch Library had been holding things up. A meeting was scheduled for October 18 to gather information and ideas from neighborhood residents regarding the plaza area.

11. Odana pond and senior center updates: S. Sussman announced that the Parks Commission had approved the building of a senior center in Odana School Park. Fundraising will be required for the project to go forward. S. Sussman announced that neighborhood residents still had concerns regarding taking water from Odana Pond for the groundwater recharging project. More hearings were planned.

12. Annual meeting: Usually, the annual meeting of the Association is held in October. Due to the shortness of time to plan such a meeting, the Board decided to delay the annual meeting until November. A note will be placed in the newsletter announcing that the annual meeting, without any special programming, will be held November 22, 2005.

13. Garage Sale update: C. Robida reported that the neighborhood garage sale was a success, with 73 individuals holding sales. Revenue over expenses amounted to over $300.

14. Adjournment: The meeting adjourned 8:45 p.m.

Charles Bunge, Secretary

Midvale Heights Community Association
Board of Directors Meeting
June 28, 2005

Minutes

Present: S. Sussman (presiding), G. Poulson, J. Sweet, M. Hoffman, M Silbernagel, P. Baker, D. Lamb, R. Meihsner, C. Bunge, T. Jarvis, R. Rotter, C. Brown, C. Henige, K. Reuter-Krohn, G. Merriman

Also attending: Kate Anderson, Rachel Martin

1. Introductions: Those present at the meeting introduced themselves.

2. Minutes: The minutes of the May 24, 2005 meeting were approved as distributed.

3.Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a report, showing an ending cash balance of $13,335.53, including details for various areas of activity. He pointed out that he had written a large check for T-Ball program expenses. Money from 2005-2007 memberships, which were coming in nicely, had not been deposited.

4. County report: R. Fyrst was unable to attend the meeting, and there was no county report.

5. City report: C. Thomas was unable to attend the meeting, and there was no city report.

6. Midvale Heights sign repair update: S. Sussman announced that the MHCA sign at Odana and Segoe had been hit by a car and damaged extensively. He had been in contact with the company that made and installed the sign, and a representative was to provide information later on the cost of repairing the sign, which would be on the order of a few hundred dollars. Motion was made, seconded, and passed authorizing the President to spend the necessary funds to get the sign repaired and installed.

7. Tornado remembrance picnic wrap-up: S. Sussman and other Board members commented on the success of the potluck and on how much those in attendance enjoyed it. The President extended the Board’s thanks to C. Robida and others who helped with arrangements. Board members commented favorably on the amount of media exposure the picnic gave the Association and hits history book.

8. Traffic Committee: Rachel Martin told the Board that she has been acting as chair or coordinator for the Association’s traffic committee. The committee has been rather inactive, in part because of a vague mission or charge. She proposed broadening the committee’s function to include transportation issues in general. Board members reacted positively to this idea , and R. Martin agreed to write an article for the newsletter proposing this idea and inviting ideas from neighborhood residents.

9. Cob Wall Design: R. Martin told the Board that the people coordinating the development of a cob wall for the Midvale Elementary School grounds were at the design stage. She invited Board members to call her with ideas or concerns.

10. Gateway project update: J. Sweet told the Board that the Gateway area required continuous maintenance of various sorts, including weeding and mulching. The response for the last work evening for mulching was not very good. She asked the Board to think about how the necessary maintenance can be coordinated and accomplished. Board members suggested putting up a sign at the site, inviting passersby to participate in maintenance work. R. Meihsner volunteered R. Meihsner to look into this idea. J. Sweet reported that one idea that she and others had developed was to replace the mulch with low-mow grass. This would cut down substantially on the work required to keep up the area. Motion was made, seconded, and passed to authorize J. Sweet to arrange for grass to be planted at the Gateway site and to have the City put a valve on the nearby hydrant for watering the area, subject to consultation with S. Sussman when cost figures are known.

11. Block Captain route update: C. Henige pointed out that no one has an up-to-date list of Block Captains and their routes. She distributed maps to Board members and asked each to mail to her and to S. Sussman information on their Block Captains and their routes.

12. Bulk mailing of the newsletter: C. Brown pointed out that there are a number of Block Captain vacancies and that delivering the newsletter can be challenging in bad weather. She suggested that the Board consider mailing the newsletter to neighborhood residents with the Association’s bulk mailing permit. After discussion, the Board decided to explore this idea further at the September 2005 Board meeting.

13. Midvale Plaza community input: R. Martin suggested that the Association be more active in providing input to developers and City officials regarding changes in Midvale Plaza. Board members expressed frustration at the lack of information and movement from the developer. G. Poulson volunteered to seek out information and to email Board members. D. Lamb and R. Martin volunteered to form a committee to gather and pass on community input. S. Sussman, M. Hoffman, and M. Silbernagel expressed interest in being on this committee.

14. Miscellaneous business: T. Jarvis announced that the calendar feature of the Association’s Internet web site was available and easy to use. He invited Board members to post meetings and other items there.

15. Adjournment: The meeting adjourned 8:30 p.m.

Charles Bunge, Secretary