MHCA Area Directors' meeting minutes

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

Also present: Cathy Rotter, Matt Phair, Greg Fischer, Wes Meixelsperger, Jim Batt, Dorothy Batt, Mike Scott, Julie Furset, Patrick Doran, Larry Mosely, Leo Goebel, Pauline Goebel, Shana Feuling Weber, John Walsh, Timothy Kritter, John McCormick.

1. Call to order and introductions: D. Lamb opened the meeting, and Board members present introduced themselves.

2. 677 S. Segoe Rd. parcel: D. Lamb briefly recapped a meeting held between the development group and neighborhood residents May 16, in which the developers reported that they had changed the development plans to include three stories, 60 apartments, and 100 bedrooms, as well as other changes to respond to comments from Board members and others at the MHCA Board meeting of April 26.

D. Lamb invited comments from those attending the meeting, after which she invited Board members to express their views. Points made by speakers with concerns about the proposed development included the following: 1) The number of units and bedrooms proposed far exceeds the guidelines in the neighborhood plan and would bring too much density to the parcel. 2) This would result in too much added traffic at intersections that are already problematic. 3) The proposed building would be too large and would not fit in with other buildings and the general character of the neighborhood. 4) For the neighborhood association to approve a development with density so far beyond that outlined in the neighborhood plan would set a bad precedent and would weaken the usefulness of the plan to guide development in other parts of the neighborhood. 5) The developers have not provided enough detailed information, especially accurate visual representations and renderings, for neighbors to make informed decisions.

Points made by Board members and Alder Matt Phair in support of the proposed development included the following: 1) The proposed development has features that would make it an asset to the neighborhood as a whole, especially when compared to other possible uses of the parcel. 2) A traffic study could provide City officials with information that could help them address traffic problems in the area, including those associated with the proposed development. 3) Odana Rd. and Segoe Rd. are both arterial streets, making the density and increased traffic permissible, especially in view of the fact that the density guidelines in the neighborhood plan might be too conservative, given current economic conditions.

In response to questions, representatives of the developers said that they felt that they had made a good faith effort to respond to concerns raised at the Board meeting of April 26. They confirmed their commitment to reducing the height of the project from four to three stories, reducing the number of units to from 68 to 60, reducing the number of bedrooms from 108 to 100, funding a traffic study, and using building materials and architectural features that would make the project an attractive “gateway” building for the neighborhood.

A motion was made and seconded: That the Board of Directors of the Midvale Heights Community Association supports the proposed development of 677 S. Segoe Rd., as presented by the development group at this meeting and the May 16 neighborhood meeting. An amendment was moved and seconded to add the phrase, “with serious reservations regarding the number of units and bedrooms proposed. The motion to amend passed. The motion, as amended, passed on a voice vote.

2. Minutes: The minutes of the April 26, 2011 meetings were approved as distributed.

3. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter reported that he had been out of town and had not been able to prepare a treasurer’s report.

4. Membership drive: P. Haskew and Greg Fischer reported that some 20 businesses had signed up to participate in the member discount card. R. Rotter reported that completed membership cards were coming in and asked who should get the forms and who should deposit checks. P. Haskew and R. Rotter agreed to meet and work out details of these matters and others.

5. Annual picnic: D. Lamb announced that Christine Sveom had indicated that a postcard invitation to the picnic would be mailed soon. The Association will provide the main course. There will be some information booths and entertainment.

6. Garage sale: D. Lamb reported that Jill Carlson would coordinate the annual neighborhood garage sale and that she had recruited another volunteer to help.

7. Alder report: Matt Phair made a brief report about City matters. The Mayor anticipates a large budget deficit for next year and intends to gain the participation of city residents in addressing the problem.

8. Alder redistricting: Matt Phair, D. Lamb, and G. Poulson reported that the proposed redistricting maps that have the most potential for being adopted would split the Midvale Heights neighborhood between two districts. Alder Phair would no longer represent the neighborhood.

9. Green Team: J. Gary reported some difficulties with getting the Bison Prairie Gateway area mowed and clipped. She said that she would continue working on the matter.

10. Announcements: In response to a question, D. Lamb indicated that the neighborhood watch committee was inactive and that, to her knowledge, no meetings or activities were planned. G. Poulson announced that he would appear before the Madison Public Library Board to request that Sunday hours at the Sequoya Branch Library be extended to include September and May. The friends group would pay the costs.

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

Charles Bunge, Secretary

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

Also present: Cathy Rotter, Matt Phair, Greg Fischer, Ellen Bergfeld, Norman Flynn, Wes Meixelsperger, Judy Skog, Mike Slavney, Jim Batt, Dorothy Batt, Mike Scott, Julie Furset, Patrick Doran, Nicholas Keene.

1. 677 S. Segoe Rd. parcel: Ellen Bergfeld, Norman Flynn, and Wes Meixelsperger, representing the American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, and Soil Science Society of America, owners of the 677 S. Segoe Rd. parcel, introduced themselves. Their purpose for attending the meeting was to see how they might help the process of gaining the Board’s approval of a development plan for the site, so that the sale of the parcel to the developer might be finalized. Mr. Flynn, a consultant to the societies, had been in touch with the developer, and he felt that there was some room for compromise between the concerns of the neighborhood and the needs of the developer. Board members and others in attendance voiced their concerns, especially about the four-story height of the project and the density in the number of apartments or residents proposed. Various alternatives for the site were mentioned. At least one person present indicated that the proposed development was preferable to having the site sit empty or be developed with a lower quality project. Mr. Flynn indicated that the developers might find it financially feasible to bring down the height of the project to three stories and to bring down the density by lowering the number of bedrooms (but not the number of units from 64). He asked if the Board could make a commitment to support such a project. Board members indicated that they would have to see quite specific proposals for the entire project before they could agree to support it.

2. Minutes: The minutes of the February 22, 2011 and March 22, 2011 meetings were approved as distributed.

3. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter reported that there had been some income and some expenditures since his last printed report, but that the Association was still solvent. D. Lamb indicated that she was nearly ready for a final accounting regarding the neighborhood plan .

4. Membership drive: S. Schmidt and G. Fischer indicated that Paul Haskew had signed some 15 businesses for participation in a MHCA member discount card program. They passed around a sample card and promotional piece. Membership Committee members expected to add other businesses to the program. Motion was made, seconded, and passed that the Board approve the membership discount card concept as a benefit of membership. Discussion confirmed that the there would be annual, rather than two-year, memberships and that the newsletter would become a perquisite of membership. D. Lamb indicated that she would publish an information piece and a membership application form in the next issue of the newsletter. After a period of time for response to this, a mailing would be made to residents who had not signed up.

5. Annual picnic: C. Lamb announced that Christine Sveom had found a committee member to replace Ruth Monson and that the picnic was scheduled for June 23, 2011, with a June 30 rain date. Motion made, seconded, and passed that the same amount of money be budgeted for this year’s picnic as was spent on last year’s picnic.

6. Green Team: J. Gary and J. Sweet announced that the cleanup date for the Tokay Blvd. beds would be April 23. J. Gary shared information and pictures about the controlled burnoff at the Bison Prairie Gateway.

7. Alder report: Matt Phair reported he had been appointed to several City committees. He urged Board members to contact him with concerns and ideas. He and G. Poulson shared the information that alder redistricting might split Midvale Heights between two districts. An informational meeting on this matter was scheduled for May 12.

8. Announcements and information: Mike Slavney announced that the new City-wide zoning map will be available soon. D. Lamb indicated that Cindi Henige had lined up two volunteers to replace her as the coordinator of newsletter distribution. Judy Skog announced that the Community Car that had been planned for Sequoya Commons would not be placed there, due to the lack of financial support for the placement. D. Lamb indicated that she would place a notice in the newsletter that the 2011 neighborhood garage sale would not be held unless volunteers to coordinate it stepped forward. J. Skog volunteered to conduct a walking tour of neighborhood “green” projects such as alternative gardens and solar homes. Board members reacted positively to the idea of MHCA sponsoring such a tour. G. Fischer distributed some information on recent home sales in the neighborhood.

9. Adjournment: Motion was made, seconded, and passed to adjourn.

Charles Bunge, Secretary

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

Also present: Nan Lager, Cathy Rotter, Matt Phair, Jim Riffel, Paul Hampton

1. Minutes: Approval of the minutes of the February 22, 2011 meeting was tabled.

2. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a report showing a cash and bank accounts total of $15,085.29, with an additional $50 just received in income.

3. Development of Odana/Segoe site: D. Lamb reported on city UDC referral of project, rather than approval. Discussion of neighbor input from informal meeting just prior to Directors’ meeting. Motion/second to authorize D. Lamb to write to developer to reiterate our ongoing concerns including density/height/parking/etc., indicating MHCA willingness to continue to work to get plan compliance. Motion carried.

4. Membership drive: S. Schmidt reported Committee recommendations including having an annual membership drive, possibly with a lifetime membership rate and providing coupons or discount card for local businesses as a membership reward. P. Haskew reported the preliminary results of investigation of coupon/discount research. Motion/second to change to annual membership drive with $15 annual member fee. Motion carried. Committee to report back next meeting on businesses interested in participating in coupon/discount program.

5. Green Team: N. Lager notified of April 30 Tokay Blvd. cleanup/gardening/mulching from 9a-12p. Volunteers with wheelbarrow needed. J. Gary reported Bison Prairie burn to be scheduled pending local approvals. Parks Division given kudos from J. Sweet for assisting MHCA and having well-run department.

6. Facebook: J. Riffel reported that Facebook page is growing and will manually post additional items from MHCA Website as they arise.

7. Announcements: Vintage Brewing at Whitney Way is seeking city approval for outside patron seating.

Volunteers came forward to do newsletter bulk distribution. Still need volunteers for picnic and garage sale.

Candidate forums for mayor and alder were well attended and successful.

Community car will locate a vehicle in the Sequoya Commons parking lot soon. More details available at next meeting.

Sequoya Commons apartment complex retail may include a restaurant and bakery.

Clarification that no formal action has yet been taken on newsletter publication/distribution changes.

8. Adjournment: Motion/second to adjourn around 8:00. Motion carried.

Chuck Kreimendahl, Substitute Scribe

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

Also present: Nan Lager, Cathy Rotter, Matt Phair, Dave Glomp, Greg Fischer, Chuck Kreimendahl

1. Minutes: The minutes of the January 25, 2011 meeting were approved with the following corrections: Under “Also Present,” change “Shell” to “Schell” and add Gwynneth Schell; change “Kene” to “Keene”; add Chuck Kreimendahl. In item 5, change “Dave Solliger” to “Steve Donneger.”

2. Treasurer’s report: R. Rotter distributed a report showing a cash and bank accounts total of $15,378.29, along with other financial information. D. Lamb indicated that MHCA still needed to settle accounts regarding the neighborhood plan with the Westmorland neighborhood association, but that the City still had not made final payment on the grant for the plan. She also indicated that she had collected some $250 in advertising revenue for the newsletter and that ad revenue could fund up to half the cost of printing the newsletter.

3. Election of Area Director: D. Lamb introduced Chuck Kreimendahl and indicated that he had expressed interest in serving as Area Director for Area 1. Motion was made, seconded, and passed to nominate him for the position. Motion was made, seconded to elect him to the position. Motion passed with no negative votes.

4. Development of Odana/Segoe site: D. Lamb reported that a dozen or so people who lived near the development site attended a meeting with her and the developers. The developers announced some changes to earlier plans, including a commitment to on-sight management of the apartments. There would be another meeting on March 1. P. Haskew indicated that he had attended the meeting. While he didn’t consider the proposed buildings to have the characteristics of an attractive gateway to the neighborhood, what the developers proposed was not a bad compromise. There was considerable discussion of the matter, but no formal action was taken.

5. Membership drive: P. Haskew reported on a meeting that he and S. Schmidt had regarding the membership drive. He distributed a summary of ideas that came out of the meeting, including having an annual membership drive and providing coupons for local businesses as a membership bonus. Board members discussed these and other ideas, including making the bonus coupons part of the membership directory. P. Haskew was encouraged to refine these ideas for the spring membership drive. A membership application form would be included in the May/June newsletter, with a follow-up mailing to residents of the neighborhood.

6. Newsletter: D. Lamb announced that content for the March/April issue of the newsletter was due to her very soon. The newsletter would include an article about vacancies in coordinators for various neighborhood events and activities. D. Lamb announced that she had conducted a poll of the block captains in her area regarding delivering the newsletter to members only. They agreed that they saw no problem in this. Board members discussed other matters related to the newsletter, but decided to combine decisions on the matter with decisions on perquisites of membership and the membership drive.

7. Candidate forums: D. Lamb indicated that MHCA is cooperating with other neighborhood associations to sponsor a candidate forum for mayoral candidates on March 16. Neighborhood associations for Meadowood, Orchard Ridge, and Midvale Heights would cooperate on a forum for alder candidates on Saturday, March 19 from 10:00 to 11:30. She asked Board members to forward to her potential questions to be asked of candidates.

8. Green Team: J. Gary announced that she and D. Lamb had applied for a grant from the City to fund the development of a Native American garden at the Bison Prairie Gateway. Note: After the meeting, they received notification that the grant was not awarded. She also announced that there would be a controlled burn at the site at the end of April.

9. Adjournment: Motion was made, seconded, and passed to adjourn at 8:05.

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, 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