1. Call to Order 7:05 P.M.

2. Agenda moved and approved

3. October minutes approved.

4. Report on Creekside Commons meeting with the Planning Commission. The Commision approved the project; approved zoning change to R-5; were full of praise for the project. Sound Density will appeal to the City Council. The project next goes to zoning.

5. Sara or Ryan will respond to Duane Evans’ grievance in a timely fashion.

6. Copies of the bylaws were distributed to the board. Members are to review, redline and be prepared to discuss at the next meeting.

7. Ryan reported on the bus transfer station planned for 46th street. There is a meeting on November 28th at Field Community School from 6-8 P.M. to address the demolition of the 46th street bridge.

8. The NRP board has approved the Tangletown Phase II plan. It has to go through two more boards, but it is anticipated that funds will be available for Tangletown in January.

9. Crime update:
There was a shooting recently at 49th and Nicollet.
We should meet with Washburn’s administration soon.

10. Arrangements for the holiday gathering were discussed.

11. Meeting adjourned at 8:15 P.M.

Board members present: Chris Burns, Mary Davidson, Jerry Doyle, Ryan Fisher, and Mary Jane Mitchell. Absent: Sarah Cortright, Andrew Hedden, Meredith Johnson and Joe Thiegs.

Prepared by Mary Davidson

Tangletown Neighborhood Association

Regular Meeting, Monday, October 15, 2007

Draft Minutes

Fuller Park
1. Call to Order, 7:00 PM.

2. Agenda moved and approved.

3. September minutes, posted on website, moved and approved.

4. NRP Phase II. Peg Mountin, our NRP Specialist, Lynell Voigt, NRP committee member, and Mary Davidson, Board Liason to NRP Committee, discussed the NRP plan with the Board. (Tom Balcom, NRP committee chair was not able to attend the meeting.). The Board approved the plan with some language changes to Parks and Public Places Objective 4 to respond to comments from Brette Hjelle of Public Works.
Peg told us that the amount of money available to NRP plans keeps changing, so it is good that we have not already committed to specific projects.
Our plan will go to the policy board on November 19, 2007.

The following handouts were presented:
NRP Phase II Neighborhood Action Plan Draft
Action Plan Comments
Highlights of the Phase II plan from Tom Balcom, NRP committee chair

5. The Creekside Commons meeting with the Planning Commission is tentatively scheduled for November. Sarah plans to attend in case there are questions about board procedures. Harry Kaiser asked if we intend to respond to the grievance. The board told Harry that none of us had received it. Efforts will be made to get us the grievance so that we can respond.
The issue of variances came up again. Sarah advised that the Planning Commission doesn’t need input from us in this regard.
Harry asked what the board will do should the present plan be voted down and a new proposal be made. Sarah replied that the board will attempt to be clearer in any subsequent response.

6. Meredith Johnson, chair of the Home Tour, reported that it was, as always, a success, despite misprinted guides and high temperatures. The variety of homes on the tour was a special plus. At the last moment enough volunteers showed up to staff the homes on the tour.

7. Jerry is taking the final steps to permit him to be treasurer. Meredith delivered the proceeds from the Home Tour to him at the meeting. He will be able to have a report, complete with numbers, next meeting.

8. Sarah asked the board to review our existing Bylaws before our next meeting and highlight areas that need change. The Creekside Commons controversy has shown that the existing bylaws do not provide clear or sufficient guidance to the board. We will also be looking at bylaws from other neighborhoods to help us improve ours.

9. Chris Burns volunteered to host a holiday party for the board.

10. The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 PM (for a change!).

Board members present: Chris Burns, Sarah Cortright, Mary Davidson, Jerry Doyle, Ryan Fisher, Andrew Hedden, Meredith Johnson, Mary Jane Mitchell, Joe Thiegs.

No one was absent.

Prepared by Mary Davidson.

Tangletown Neighborhood Association

Regular Meeting, Monday, September 17, 2007

Draft minutes

7:00 P.M. Fuller Park

1. Call to Order

2. Approval of Agenda. Moved and approved

3. Approval of Minutes. Posted on the website. Moved and approved.

4. Safety update from Chelsea Adams, Crime Prevention Specialist
Property crimes are most prevalent recently, particularly theft from vehicles. Remember to lock cars and hide valuables left in cars when unattended. There have been some reports of garage door openers stolen from cars and then robberies from those garages. Suspects are typically male, on bikes, and with backpacks. Theft of catalytic converters has been noticed, predominantly on trucks, vans, and SUVs –Toyotas in particular.

The following handouts were provided: Preventing Bicycle Theft; Preventing Auto Theft; Preventing Residential Burglary; Information regarding Community Impact Statement; Upcoming Block Leader Training; Upcoming Property Manager workshop; Guard Your Identity; 911 and 311 info; 5th Precinct Resources Phone List; and Neighborhood Policing Plan for Tangletown.

Neighborhood Policing is focused on concerns over smokers from Washburn High School on private property and on theft in general.


5. Home tour assignments
We’re still looking for 5 more volunteers for the Home Tour. Volunteer time slots are 2 hours, either 1-3 or 3-5 and include admission ticket to the home Tour. Tickets will again be $10 this year, and tickets will be printed into the brochure for the event. Flowers will be delivered to all host homes on Saturday.

6. Neighborhood Revitalization Plan Update
We’re at the mid-term of Phase 2 in the NRP plan. The plan proposal is available for review on the Tangletown website as well as at the Washburn Library and Fuller Park.

The following handouts were provided: Review of Phase 2 process, Phase 2 Budget, NRP Link Newsletter.

Next TNA Board meeting (October 17) will have a vote from neighborhood residents to approve the Phase 2 plan, and then a vote from the TNA Board to approve Phase 2.

Once Phase 2 has been approved residents will be able to begin applying for housing-based loans, to be processed in early 2008. A point was made to consider funds toward the rebuilding of the Lyndale parkway bridge to include a Tangletown crest on the bridge. NRP funds cannot be used toward projects of beautification specifically. The Board owns the monies that are repaid through the home loans by residents.

Phase 2 funding has been uncertain. As a result, we are encouraged to spend 50% of monies in year 1. Neighborhood must encourage their city councilmember to release all monies allocated to Phase 2.

7. Special meeting format/assignments/agenda
Handout of draft agenda. We will attempt to alternate Q&A between people, for the project, against the project, and undecided or neutral on the project.


8. Garage sale / response to concerns around missing StarTribune ad
We will offer no refunds for this year’s garage sales as it is a revenue generator for the neighborhood; despite the shortage of advertising this year. Next year we must have a board member tied to this event.


9. Letter to city regarding TNA board’s stance on the proposed Creekside Commons development
Ryan and Jerry have written a draft and submitted it to Sarah for review. Joe Thiegs will also review the letter before it is sent to the full board for review. The letter will be sent to the city Planning Commission for their vote at the end of October.

10. Treasurer Update
Jerry just received the treasurer materials tonight and will begin sorting through the documents soon. Reimbursements for 4th of July expenses will be done soon, and there are anticipated expenses for the upcoming Home Tour.

11. Opportunity for Special Communications
Our printer has offered 11x17 2-fold print job for free due to printing problems with the last newsletter.

12. New Matters
Laura Silver should be moved off the 4th of July email list as she will not be chairing that event in the future. The board should begin thinking about finding a replacement.

13. Adjournment


Attendance: Sarah Cortright, Jerry Doyle, Ryan Fisher, Andrew Hedden, Meredith Johnson, Mary Jane Mitchell

Not present: Joe Thiegs, Mary Davidson, Chris Burns

2007-2008 Board
Sarah Cortright, Jerry Doyle, Ryan Fisher, Andrew Hedden, Joe Thiegs, Mary Davidson, Meredith Johnson, Mary Jane Mitchell, Chris Burns

Minutes
Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Meeting, Monday, August 20, 2007

7:00 P.M. Fuller Park

1. Call to Order.

2. Approval of Agenda. Moved and approved with #7 deferred.

3. Approval of Minutes. Moved and approved.
4. Creekside Commons housing development proposal: vote and discussion of follow-up letter to the planning commission.
Sarah Cortright outlined the discussions and input that have happened since April on the Creekside Commons proposal: presentations, questions, response, web postings, emails received. The Board at the last meeting felt it appropriate to have those concerned with the proposal present with little questions and answers given the previous meetings. Board members have received numerous emails and many discussions haven taken place in person and by phone. Discussions have also taken place between the developers and the neighbors close to the project location. Input has also been received from the offices of elected officials, city staff, and the various documents prepared by the project proposers as well as the Minneapolis Residents for Smart Density.
Joe Thiegs moved that the Board draft and send a letter to the City and Planning Commission to the effect that the position of the Board as a whole regarding the Creekside Commons project proposed by Mayflower Church and Plymouth Church Neighborhood Foundation is most closely reflected by the statement that the Board supports the project generally but has some concerns that the proposed capacity of 30 units is too large. Further, that the letter may include further specificity regarding the positions of Board Directors. Seconded by Mary Davidson. Motion passed by 4 votes to 3.

Joe Thiegs then moved that the Board send a letter to the City and Planning Commission reflecting that the Board does not oppose the requested zoning, conditional use permit, or variances, with the exception of the requested parking variance, which the Board opposes. Seconded by Mary Davidson. Passed unamimously.
Jerry Doyle and Ryan Fisher will draft the letter on behalf of the Board.

5. Request for “Special Meeting” by Minneapolis Residents for Smart Density. Sarah Cortright explained that the Minneapolis Residents for Smart Density has asked for a Special Meeting of the Tangletown Neighborhood Association. Harry Kaiser of Minneapolis Residents for Smart Density explained that the meeting would be in preparation for the City Planning Commission meeting, and should be attended only by members of the Tangletown Neighborhood Association, as defined in the TNA bylaws. Harry explained that a large number of people would attend a well-publicized meeting. Lee Blons of Plymouth Neighborhood Association asked if the Special Meeting would be informational only. Mary Davidson read from the Bylaws the provisions relating to Special Meetings. Sarah Cortright moved that a Special Meeting be held in response to the request. The motion was seconded by Jerry Doyle. The motion passed unanimously. A member of the audience asked that the notice for the meeting clearly state who can attend and/or participate in the Special Meeting.

6. NRP Update. Tom Balcom gave an update of the work of the Steering Committee of the Phase 2 of NRP. The Phase 2 Action Plan was circulated to the Board. Mary Davidson has represented the Board on the Steering Committee.
The Steering Committee has worked very closely with the NRP city staff throughout the development of this Action Plan. Tom asked that the Board authorize the circulation of the Action Plan for comment by neighbors, and for later approval by the Board for submission to the city. The Board approved posting the Action Plan on the Tangletown web site. [The draft Phase 2 plan is now posted at http://www.tangletown.org]
The Police Liason officer asked whether there has been any feedback on the Neighborhood Policing Plan.

7. Treasurer’s report [deferred]. Accounts are being transferred over to Jerry Doyle, the new Treasurer.

8. Upcoming events. Newsletter, Home Tour. Newsletter will be sent out in the next few weeks, featuring the Home Tour. The Home Tour will be Sunday, September 23rd from 1 to 5pm. Volunteers are welcome to help with staffing the tour. We need about 20 volunteers in total. Volunteers get a free ticket for the Home Tour.
Harry Kaiser asked about the question raised last month re Board membership. Sarah Cortright replied that the Board wished to wait to next May to add members to the Board.

Attendance:  Chris Burns, Sarah Cortright, Mary Davidson, Jerry Doyle, Andrew Hedden, Meredith Johnson, Joe Thiegs.

Not present: Ryan Fisher, Mary Jane Mitchell.

2007-2008 Board
Chris Burns, Sarah Cortright, Mary Davidson, Jerry Doyle, Ryan Fisher, Andrew Hedden, Meredith Johnson, Joe Thiegs, Mary Jane Mitchell.

Approved Sept 17th.

Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Meeting, Monday, July 16, 2007

7:00 P.M. Fuller Park

1. Call to Order

2. Approval of Agenda. Moved and approved

3. Approval of Minutes. Posted on the website. Moved and approved.

4. Election of 2007-2008 Officers
President: Sarah Cortright
Vice President: Ryan Fisher
Secretary: Mary Davidson
Treasurer: Jerry Doyle

5. Chelsea Adams, CPS 5th Precinct, Sec. 3
Community liason to MPD. Providing introduction and her contact info. Contact handout has information on signing up for optional safety mailing list for sector 3.
Clarification of city phone numbers: 911 for any emergency response request. 311 is city directory, non-emergency.
Emphasized the need to convey the urgency of your call to 911. The more information that can be provided in the call, the better.
MPD Can provide free security assessment of your home. Hiding spots in landscaping, security of windows and doors.
Graffiti should be reported to 311

6. Mayflower Housing Project – Harry Kaiser
Email board@tangletown.org with questions following the meeting/presentation.
Harry noted as attended: Scott Benson, Frank Hornstein, Gayle Dorfmann, Carol ?? (from RT Rybak office)
“Tangletown Residents for Smart Density”
-see full presentation at Tangletown website-

6.1. 35W update from Scott Benson
MNDOT is trying to get a permit to do overnight work on Crosstown/35W Project. MNDOT has proposed to do neighborhood meetings regarding noise from overnight work. City is pressing MNDOT to give an overall end date for the project. City has asked MNDOT about why they’re not working Saturdays as had been planned.

7. 4th of July Recap
We have $2231.15 in cash from the event. This total is a little more than last year. The final total revenue generated will be tallied once all expenses have been paid out.
Thanks to volunteers for all help. Got lots of good help from neighborhood volunteers this year.
Huge kudos to Laura Silver and all the work she’s done on the event!
Tips for future 4th of July events:
• Sell tickets at the high school ahead of time.
• Pre-count tickets a day ahead of time.
• Fewer raffle items this year over last
• Ran out of ice (only had 40 lbs, needed at least 100 lbs) – it was hot!
• Bought less water this year- we ran out.
• Bought same amount of chips as last year – had a few extra
• Bought 40 more hot dogs over last year – we had about 40 extra that sold for 2-for-1 at end of event.
Tom is looking for a plexiglass case for lego Watertower. Perhaps open it up to Leonardo’s Basement.

8. Upcoming Events – Newsletter, Home Tour
Submit ideas for upcoming TNA newsletter to Norman Foster by August 10.
September 23 will be the Home Tour. Doing good on getting homes committed for home tour, with a few people still deciding. Will be looking for volunteers to work during the home tour. 1-3 pm and 3-5 pm shifts; includes a free ticket to the event.

9. New Matters – Board Members or Members of Tangletown
Board has a member who had been nominated as a board member, but later decided not to participate. There are two people interested in joining the board. Proposal to allow one more person join (to replace the person who dropped out) the board is raised and passed. Interested individuals should plan to nominate themselves at the August meeting, for approval vote from the board.

NRP committee members have been encouraged to be in contact with city representatives to be sure that neighborhoods are getting 100% of their allotted NRP funds. There have been proposals to allocate funds in waves rather than all at once if even 100%.
Proposal to use some NRP funds to help residents pay for tree removal in cases where trees have been declared diseased by the city. NRP committee will look in to this.

We will be discussing TNA Board’s role in writing a letter to the city planning commission regarding proposed Mayflower development. We are reviewing our current by-laws to see what is allowed. Further discussion and decision is tabled until next meeting.

10. Adjournment


Attendance: Sarah Cortright, Jerry Doyle, Ryan Fisher, Andrew Hedden, Joe Thiegs, Mary Davidson, Meredith Johnson, Mary Jane Mitchell

Not present: -none-

2007-2008 Board
Sarah Cortright, Jerry Doyle, Ryan Fisher, Andrew Hedden, Joe Thiegs, Mary Davidson, Meredith Johnson, Mary Jane Mitchell, Chris Burns

Minutes approved August 21st.

Minutes Draft
Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Meeting, Monday, June 18, 2007

7:00 P.M. Fuller Park

1. Call to Order by Sarah Cortright, chairing the meeting as Vice President.
2. Approval of Agenda
3. Approval of Minutes from May 2007. Some amendments will be made to clarify direct quotations and to reflect some additional comments in opposition.
4. Citizen planning grant of $2,000 has been received.
5. July 4th planning has continued and the event will happen as usual, 10am to 1pm.
6. Mayflower continuation of discussion from last month.

[NOTE: In the following notes, the person named is making the statements immediately following, usually ending with a new paragraph. Direct quotations are not used but the person’s comments are paraphrased as accurately as possible given the rapid nature of the discussion. Questions from the floor are indicated by Q and answers by A, with the person answered noted for clarity when possible. (It is not often we have the honor of not just our city council member but the Mayor at a meeting, and the Board thanks them for their attendance). Not all questions were answered directly so there is not always an A for every Q.]

DISCUSSION Lee Blons of Plymouth Neighborhood Association started the presentation with questions from last month’s meeting. [In response to some questions, about one-third of those in attendance at the meeting live very close, within 2 blocks, of the proposed development.] She restated the basic information about the project. She stated that the project is currently seeking financial assistance for the project as well as planning approvals with the city. Some rezoning, she said, is required for the project as proposed. In followup from questions from last month, she said: - there is a report on the impact of affordable/workforce housing on property values [a copy of this was handed out to those who wished to have one.]

Q. What is definition of workforce housing ? A. Those who earn working wages in the community. Q. Does not include homeowners? A. No.

Mayor R.T. Rybak addressed the group. [Separately the Mayor is helping organize a meeting in the neighborhood on airport noise development, June 27th, Richfield Lutheran Church, 6-7pm].
Paraphrasing the Mayor’s comments: I understand this project has raised interest and concerns. I have worked with this group before and they are amazing. This group has good experience. At Franklin and Nicollet, there were concerns about property values and they were addressed. What we have with this proposal is something incredibly important for the city. This housing is labeled affordable but that would be include half the households in the city of Minneapolis. This proposal will be on a transit corridor, Nicollet, and also on the proposed Bus Rapid Transit line along 35W. This proposal will help commercial development. But I am really careful about which developers need support, and the church will be there as well. Knowing what I know about this group and this situation, I think you will all be happy in a few years.

Q. What about City Limits apartments near Cub? A. (Mayor): those kind of large projects are not what are proposed any longer. This proposal will be much better managed.

Q. How far back does the reputation of this developer go? A. (Mayor): from the first week I was in office (2002), I had to deal with a proposal right by Plymouth Church. I stood with that proposal at Blaisdell and Franklin and there has been a number of other developments since then in the area. In 2004, Plymouth helped with other well-managed and affordable housing projects. Mayflower Church is an additional partner that makes the projecd stronger. Q. So 5 years’ experience.

Q. What evidence is there that property values aren’t affected? A. (Mayor): The Boulevard housing development at 54th and Lyndale was a big controversy a few years ago. The city was working with Kowalski’s and the fact that more people living across the street helped attract them. Q. But doesn’t commercial values tend to depress housing values since more density for customers does not enhance residential values? A (Mayor): residential values around 54th and Lyndale went up. Tangletown Gardens has been a positive for the neighborhood. Q: is there any comparative data on housing values? A (Sarah Cortright): there is conflicting data and studies on this.

Q. The Boulevard project should not be compared with this proposal since it is on a busy street, not a residential street, and Boulevard has market-rate units instead of a massive rental proposal. A. (Mayor): Plymouth and Mayflower are stronger partners in this project than the Boulevard. Q. Where is there a project of this scale on a street that is not a bus line? The scale is intimidating.

Q. Have any real estate appraisals been done over the long-term? A.

Q. There has been a lot of controversy over McMansions and being out of scale. This is a rental McMansion: Traffic and scale are too much. A (Mayor): the issues you raise are good ones; the issues of scale and traffic and impact need to be addressed as we go through this process. The site is a very interesting location. I will keep pressure on the developer to look at the scale issue.
Q. In the examples you gave of LaSalle, there has been a lot of owner occupied condos developed so didn’t that help? A (Mayor): there are not exactly similar neighborhoods.
Q. When Liberty Custard was proposed, the alterative was a garage and neighborhood concerns helped give us Liberty Custard.
Q. Will Mayflower give the neighbors say over more than just the color of the building? A. [Lee Blons]: The previous meeting comment was that the church said the neighbors could have a say on the color of the building, but not of the tenants.
Q. What is parking requirement? A. 0.9 [spaces per housing unit] for these kinds of units. Q. Is that being met right now on the other rental buildings in the immediate area. A. [Mayor]: we need to look at traffic issues. A (Sarah Cortright): this issue is being addressed by the developer and the city.
Q. Where can I find the city’s Comprehensive Plan? A. [Mayor]: the city is redoing the plan right now so you can participate.

City’s web site is: http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/planning/
Comprehensive Plan update is at http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/planning/comp_plan_update.asp
Planning Commission is at http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/planning/commission/index.asp
Agendas are at http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/cped/agendas/planning-commission/

Q. Mr Mayor, you are standing behind Plymouth as developers but we talked with some neighborhood people in Northeast Nokomis Neighborhood Association who found them very arrogant, uncooperative and offensive to the neighbors. A. [Mayor]: I have not found that to be true.
Q. Will this property be tax exempt? A. [Lee Blons]. The project is not tax exempt. The property tax rate is higher than homestead but lower than commercial. [Mayor]: this project is better with a good non-profit developer than many would be with for-profit. Q. I don’t think this building will pay over ¼ million dollars per year based on 40 units times what I pay. Q. Why not put this project on a site which already has the appropriate zoning? Russ Adams: I don’t have the answer to that.

Russ Adams, Executive Director of the the Alliance for Metropolitan Stability (http://www.metrostability.org/) made a short statement. His comments, paraphrased: we work all over the metro area, your concerns are very appropriate. You should ask about design standards and seek good a well-managed building. This is a medium density proposal. Q. That does not seem medium. What is definition of medium? A. Less than 20 units per acre.
Adams continued: this project is a model of helping people get beyond being just a renter, with on-site services. Absentee landlord ownership would be a disaster but this is well-managed and well-designed. I have seen only good impacts on property values from well- designed projects. [Q. Can you give us research or studies on the places were it did not work?] You have every right to pressure the developers and ask hard questions.

More questions from the floor. Q. What does evidence-based best practices say? It seems that nationally the trend is to scattered-site approaches, and section 8 vouchers. This proposal does not seem consistent with this trend. A. [Adams]: there are some places that are building 100% affordable housing in a number of places in the metro area. There is not one kind of project being built.
Q. Itasca project looked at racial and other disparities in the metro area. Their report showed that most jobs are beyond 5 miles of downtown. So why locate more people in the city?A. [Mayor]: I was on that study and it proposed transit-based development along transit corridors. I will be in Washington DC tomorrow to talk about funding for a project to promote transit-based development.
Q. But 80% of the new jobs being created are outside the central cities. A. [Mayor]: we are trying to get good transit to serve both the downtowns and suburban job opportunities. [Adams]: BRT along I35W will allow for reverse commuting. The location of new job openings (eg people leaving existing jobs) and the location of newly created jobs is not the same.
Q. How is this considered smart or green growth? A. [Adams]: integrates transportation corridors, transit, commercial nodes, design. There is a negotiation process that will continue over the next few months.
Q. I am a member of Mayflower and would like to know about the cost-effectiveness of the 40 unit proposal? Q. What scares me is that all the people who have influence on this project seem to be in favor. The Mayor is for it and the developers are for it but these are the kinds of people that we have to take our concerns to? Q. What can concerned neighbors do to get our presentation of our concerns heard?
A. Sarah Cortright. We should set up a separate meeting to have that kind of discussion.
Q. But TNA is asking various speakers who seem to be supporting this project? Why can’t we have time on an agenda to make our presentation? The last meeting we seemed only to have people speaking for the project? Why can we not hear about the reasons for the number of units? Or why not put this project on another [land] site?
Q. [Mayor]: the number one issue in the city right now is foreclosure. There has been too much concentration of certain social issues in one or two parts of the city and all areas need to play a role. Q: but why not put this building on an abandoned drug house? A. [Mayor]: we are doing that? But people in those areas ask “why can’t other areas help as well?”
Q. The scale of this project changes the balance of the immediate surroundings. A. [Lee Blons]. In terms of economies of scale and operating costs, the number of units drives the overall cost-effectiveness that funders look for. The median income in this neighborhood (Tangletown) is $75,000 vs $37,000 in the city as a whole.
Q. Where does the subsidy for the rent come from? And is there a need for more apartments in this neighborhood? There are many vacancies already. Why not use the housing voucher approach? A. [Lee Blons]. 80% of units won’t have rent subsidies. Capital costs are what is reduced by tax credits. City’s financing is 30 year deferred loan, at a likely 0-2% interest rate. 20% of units are rent subsidized by state (MHFA) and other funds. Housing vouchers is about 2-3 year waiting list. Q. But won’t this project then allow people to get special consideration over those waiting for a voucher. A. [Lee Blons]: Most affordable housing proposals now are about lowering the capital cost and getting the ongoing operating costs down. The vacancy rate we (Plymouth) have looked at in Tangletown does not seem high for the kinds of 2-3 bedroom units in this proposal.
Q. Did other proposals Plymouth has developed address neighborhood concerns?
A. [Lee Blons]. We have had neighborhood association support in all but one case.
Q. [Rev Sarah Campbell]: we went door-knocking in the neighborhood and found support. [Large response from audience]: who did you talk to since lots of neighbors are in opposition? There are 32 people on a Google group that are opposed.
Q. What is in this proposal financially for Mayflower? A. [Rev Sarah Campbell]: it is part of the gospel. A. [Lee Blons for Plymouth]: there will be a developer fee that the city allows. The developer uses the fee to sustain the non-profit developer. The rental income will come in to pay for maintenance over the next 30 years.
Q. Is the city still pursuing more density as a goal? A. [Mayor]. Yes. The million people coming to the metro area in the next few decades need to be located around transit corridors. The city’s long range plan is for more density along transit corridors.
Q. Is there any other non-profit developers putting workforce housing into Tangletown?
A. [Lee Blons]: we are not aware of any.
Q. Why not put this money (city subsidy) into vouchers? A [Mayor]: we have been doing some scattered-site developments. But one of the problems is that people with vouchers tend to end up concentrated into some areas such as parts of north Minneapolis. Q. why is that (refusing to rent to people with vouchers); isn’t there a good reason for that? A. [Lee Blons]: often times the rent in voucher programs is too low. And the amount of paperwork and inspections are unpopular with some landlords.

Sarah Cortright: the board will have an agenda item next month for those concerned with this project to present information, if a request is made.

Q. Is there an example of where you, the developer, has had rezoning opposed by substantial numbers of people? A. [Lee Blons]: With our Lydia project in Stevens Square, the proposal went to the city council and the neighborhood association which opposed the project 3 years ago now supports it.
Q. Is that a 55/45% owner rental neighborhood like Tangletown? A. No that was 95% rental but there was some new owner condo developments coming.

[For people interested in this issue, there is a Google Groups ('Mayflower Housing Watch') that those concerned about the project can communicate. You will need a Google account (free) and to make a request to join the group to participate.]

Q. How is the neighborhood defined? The people most affected are in a small area. It feels like the IDS tower is being put into my neighborhood? A. [Mayor]: city planner can help explain how the process will work.

[Planner]: project proposers will be seeking rezoning, some conditional permits, land use applications. Staff will make findings. Planning Commission then acts on the recommended approval or denial. Rezoning only goes to City Council. Criteria can be found on the city’s web site and the 11-page Guide to Development. [The following appears to be that document: http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/planning/docs/zoningguide10-04.pdf but check the web site carefully.] Planning Commission meetings are open and neighbors will be notified.

SUMMARY
Sarah Cortright summarized next actions:
Questions for next meeting should be emailed to Tangletown Board (board@tangletown.org)
If a written request from opponents is received, we will have time on the next agenda.
If you have an email address, please submit it to the TNA web site (by signing up for the Yahoo Group) and we’ll try to keep people informed on what is happening.

7. July 4th Meeting discussion Laura Silver emailed assignments in an email. Please come at 8.30am to help with last minute arrangements. Sarah will get some ice and change for ticket sales. Some left over t-shirts will be available for sale.
8. Put on web site that all block leaders should get emails to TNA.
9. Election of officers for the Board for 2007-2008 deferred to next month.
10. Adjournment

Attendance:  Sarah Cortright, Mary Davidson, Jerry Doyle, Supat Tipayamongkol, Ryan Fisher, Mary Jane Mitchell

Not present: Meredith Johnson, Joe Thiegs.

2007-2008 Board
Sarah Cortright, Mary Davidson, Jerry Doyle, Ryan Fisher, Andrew Hedden, Meredith Johnson, Joe Thiegs, Mary Jane Mitchell, Chris Burns.

Approved July 16th meeting

Minutes [Changes to Draft shown in BOLD]
Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Meeting, Monday, May 21, 2007

7:00 P.M. Fuller Park

1. Call to Order

2. Approval of Agenda. Item #4 deferred to future meeting. Amended agenda approved.

3. Approval of Minutes. Posted on the website. Moved and approved.

4. Assistant Principal Jay Alexander, Washburn High School (DEFERRED)

5. Election of board for 2007-2008. A number of existing members (Sarah Cortright, Mary Davidson, Jerry Doyle, Ryan Fisher, Andrew Hedden, Meredith Johnson, Joe Thiegs) have expressed interest in serving in 2007-2008. Up to 15 members can be on the Board. In addition, nominations from the floor were made for Mary Jane Mitchell, Kerry Bachman, Chris Burns. The existing and three proposed members were elected for 2007-2008 by the TNA Annual Meeting.


6. Development plans of Mayflower Church The main part of the meeting consisted on a presentation by the Mayflower Church on the proposed housing project at 54th and Stevens, adjacent to the church itself. The developer is Plymouth Church Neighborhood Foundation. The Foundation has developed a number of recent projects, including Lydia in Stevens Square neighborhood. We [the Foundation] believe well managed affordable housing can be an asset to the neighborhood.
The project will apply to the city on July 6th for city approval. As part of that process, the neighborhood association will be asked to respond and give feedback on the project. It is anticipated that some adjustments in zoning will be requested from the city.
Reverend Sarah Campbell explained how Mayflower Church came to propose this project. The Church [she said] is completely committed to this community and neighborhood. The church has been deliberating for two years on what to do with its lots and who to partner with on a housing project.
Urban Works architects explained the concept for the project. The existing single family house would be replaced with an “L” shaped building of 3 and one half stories with 40 units, mostly for families. A planner from the city of Minneapolis, Amanda Arnold, explained how the development process will work, involving both rent assistance and zoning changes. The project has not submitted an application yet. The Planning Commission will be provided a staff recommendation on any chances to zoning or on any application for conditional use permits. Staff will make findings related to the project’s compliance with the city’s comprehensive plan. Any rezonings or appeals would go to the city council.



Left: attendance Middle: architect explaining design Right: Board members

Questions were asked about how appeals can be made and how neighborhood comments are integrated into the process. Current zoning is single family.
Council member Scott Benson added that a traffic study has already been requested. A question was asked about how water runoff issues in this area will be addressed if a larger building is put on a grass site. The architects said they will be required to address this issue in the design process. Council member Scott Benson explained how his office can help provide information on the project approval process. He also noted that Mn/DOT will be holding a public meeting this week on the 35W/Crosstown project.

There was a question and answer period between people attending the meeting and the presenters. Many questions were raised with concerns about aspects of the project or its overall scope and scale. Comments were also made in favor of the project. Detailed notes were not taken of this part of the meeting since the minute taker had to leave. Many of the issues raised can be found in the June minutes that will be posted on this web site. Summary notes of the remainder of the meeting follow:

Mayflower and the developer will respond to questions from the May meeting or submitted by email at next month's meeting [see June minutes].

Brian Elliot, District Director from Congressman Keith Ellison's office presented an office update. Their office is located at Penn and Plymouth Ave. North in the Minneapolis Urban League Building. They have 6 full-time staff who focus on getting constituents in touch with resources revolving around federal government issues. Keith Ellison serves on the Financial Services Committee as well as the Judiciary Committee. His focuses are on peace, sustainability/environmental justice, human/civil rights, voting rights, and prosperity for working families. The office can be reached at 612-522-1212 or online at http://ellison.house.gov.

7. Open Matters – Board Members or Members of Tangletown

Tom Balcom gave gave a follow up on the All About Family program held April 21. He brought the completed lego watertower model which is hoped to be put on display at the Washburn library once a plastic case is built for it. About 14 children and 5 adults showed up for the event which was enjoyable and well run. --Footnote: Tom mentioned that he has learned that the city in fact no longer uses the watertower at all.

4th of July update: Laura has secured volunteers to head up the following: posters, inflatable slide, root beer, sno cones, and a pot luck. 2 bands have committed. Steve is going to take on the raffle again this year, and Ryan is going to work on getting the hot dog vendor to return else find an applicable substitute. It should be noted that this event will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather (rain).

8. Adjournment


Attendance: Sarah Cortright, Jerry Doyle, Ryan Fisher, Norman Foster, Andrew Hedden, Laura Silver, Joe Thiegs, Supat Tipayamongkol.

Not present: Mary Davidson, Steve Edwards, Meredith Johnson,

2006-2007 Board
Sarah Cortright, Mary Davidson, Jerry Doyle, Steve Edwards, Ryan Fisher, Norman Foster, Andrew Hedden, Meredith Johnson, Laura Silver, Joe Thiegs, Supat Tipayamongkol.

Approved with direction for changes at June 2007 meeting.

Minutes Draft
Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Meeting, Monday, April 16, 2007

7:00 P.M. Fuller Park

1. Call to Order
2. Approval of Agenda. Moved and seconded.
3. Approval of Minutes. Moved and seconded.
4. Water Tower. Sam Sarat talked about irrigation issues at the Water Tower. Discussions have been continuing with the Water Dept regarding installation of an irrigation system. Sam requested that Board members sign a letter supporting the project to Council Member Benson.
5. Variance requests at 4737 Blaisdell Avenue – Thomas and AnnaMarie Erbes discussed their request to address flooding issues. The City separated storm and sanitary sewers a few years ago and this separation means that water does not dissipate as fast as it should. Water now flows into the back yard and into the tuck under garage from backup and flow in the alley. The recommended solution is to raise the grade at the back of the property by 1-2 feet and develop an accessory structure. The variance request is from the wall plate limit in the zoning code. Other elements of the project meet the zoning code in the revised plan. Moved and seconded that the Board write to the city and state that TNA does not oppose this application.
6. Development plans of Mayflower Church. Bob Pomeroy, a member of the church, described a property at 54th and Stevens that the church owns. This property has been used for the last 10 years as temporary housing for refugees. The cost of maintaining this house has become a challenge for the church, and discussions have been going on for a few years on what to do with the property. The parish decided that it would like to do something in housing and is proposing an affordable housing development, in partnership with the Plymouth Church Neighborhood Foundation. The goal is to create a building that fits into the neighborhood and that addresses a need for workforce housing. Lee Blons (lblons@plymouthfoundation.org) of the Foundation (http://www.plymouthfoundation.org/) described the proposal a little more and offered to come with a full proposal at a later date, probably May or June. [This presentation is planned for the May 21st meeting at Fuller Park.] The proposal will seek housing tax credits and will seek neighborhood support. The proposal is for 42 units, with underground parking, mostly 2-3 bedroom units for families. Rental range will be $500 for 1 bedroom to $1,000 for larger units. The property would be owned by Plymouth Church Neighborhood Foundation and Mayflower would be substantially involved. A number of people in attendance asked questions about the proposal: Q: What effect do these kinds of projects have on property values? A: Family Housing Fund has done research that there is no impact. Q: How certain is it that the property will be maintained? What about vacancies? A: The City and State look closely at the financial and operating plan. We build high quality structures. Q: Where are your other developments? A: Stevens Square, Powerderhorn, Loring Park. Followup Q: My experience in real estate has been that subsidized housing does not help housing values. Q: Why 42 units? A: The building will be L-shaped and this fits the property. The 54th street side of the building will be designed to have a townhouse-look façade. Q: Why this location? A: the church owns the property at this location. Comment: I support this plan for workforce housing in southwest Minneapolis. Q: There are a number of developments already in the area. How can we be sure that this development will minimize the risk of undesirable effects? A: The professional management company will work to screen tenants actively. Q: Have you developed a similar-sized project is a similar neighborhood? A: Most of our specific projects have generally had commercial neighbors. Q: What is the zoning situation? A: The property would likely need to be rezoned to multifamily. Q: What share of the 42 units would be market rate? A: This is workforce housing and the household incomes of $30,000 to $50,000. 80% of the units would not have rental assistance. 20% would be Section 8 or similar. Q: Mayflower sent out a letter in March regarding this proposal. This letter seems to assume that the neighbors should have no say in the proposal. It also seems that this proposal has been under discussion for over a year [A: there was a student competition a year ago that looked at the site; it is not this proposal]. Q: Why not more dispersed pattern of housing rather than 42 units on one site? A: The median income in the city is $38,000; in Tangletown about $75,000. Lots of workers in the city deserve a place to live in the city. The proposers would like to make a fuller presentation of the full project at the May 21st meeting, if that would be possible. The Board agreed that this presentation would be useful. Mayflower will send a letter to the neighbors around the property to let people know this discussion will take place. [The Board will ask the proposers if they can come at 6pm and allow interested parties to ask questions and look at materials—see the website for updates on this. The meeting itself will begin at 7pm.] Reminder: Saturday is Earth Day and community event will take place at Lyndale Community Center.
7. NRP report – Tom Balcom. Four strategies are being pursued: housing, transportation and safety, public spaces and quality of life. These strategies will be forwarded to the board for discussion at the June meeting. Washburn High School would like to present some information at a future TNA meeting.
8. Treasurer’s Report – Supat Tipayamongkol
8. Open Matters – Board Members or Members of Tangletown
Garage sale—Supat will collate submissions, Joe and Meredith will distribute signs and maps, Meredith will look into an ad in the Star Tribune, Norman will prepare maps and circulate by email, and post ads on Craigs List. 4th of July—preparations continue. The Board authorized a budget of the same size as last year plus the cost of renting a tent for a pot luck.
9. Adjournment


Attendance: 
Sarah Cortright, Mary Davidson, Ryan Fisher, Norman Foster, Andrew Hedden, Meredith Johnson, Joe Thiegs, Supat Tipayamongkol.

Not present: Jerry Doyle, Steve Edwards, Laura Silver.

2006-2007 Board
Sarah Cortright, Mary Davidson, Jerry Doyle, Steve Edwards, Ryan Fisher, Norman Foster, Andrew Hedden, Meredith Johnson, Laura Silver, Joe Thiegs, Supat Tipayamongkol.

Minutes Draft
Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Meeting, Monday, March 19, 2007
7:00 P.M. Fuller Park


1. Call to Order

2. Approval of Agenda. Moved and seconded. Approved.

3. Approval of Minutes from February 2007. Moved and seconded. Approved.

4. NRP Report -- Group will be meeting March 20 and again April 10. By mid-April they hope to determine action strategies. They've had guest speakers come in to discuss potential initiatives. 70% of this NRP funding will be dedicated to Housing improvements. South High School held their Housing Fair last week, and Southwest High School will have theirs this coming Saturday. The Housing Fairs are good opportunities to see what other NRP groups are doing with funding. TNA NRP home loans will likely be advertised in TNA Newsletter and perhaps the Southwest Journal. As loans are repaid to NRP those funds do not necessary need to be dedicated to Housing initiatives.

5. Treasurers Report -- Supat was out of the country

6. Upcoming Events -- TNA Newsletter stories must be submitted by 3/20. Mary Davidson will submit information regarding Earth Day Clean Up (4/21) (see below). This newsletter would also be a good chance to solicit volunteers for the 4th of July event. The newsletter will be printed this week.

The TNA Garage Sale is scheduled for the weekend of May 4th and 5th.

7. Open Matters – Board Members or Members of Tangletown
Earth Day Cleanup will take place 4/21 9:30-noon. Meet at Lynhurst Community Center where cleanup supplies will be provided. Area of focus will be the creek extending in both directions from the Community Center. Mary Davidson has volunteered to assist with the program by hanging posters at Tangletown area businesses. A listing will also be made in the TNA Newsletter.

All In The Family will hold their Lego Project on Saturday 4/21 in the afternoon. Since meeting at the library means food cannot be served, the group will pursue Fuller Park as the event location and provide pizza for attendees. There is a minimal fee for use of Fuller Park on that day. Since Phase 1 NRP fund status is unknown this event will be paid for using TNA funds.

8. Adjournment. Moved and seconded. Approved.

Attendance:
Mary Davidson, Joe Thiegs, Jerry Doyle, Ryan Fisher, Andrew Hedden,

Not present: Steve Edwards, Norman Foster, Sarah Cortright, Meredith Johnson, Laura Silver, Supat Tipayamongkol

2006-2007 Board
Sarah Cortright, Mary Davidson, Jerry Doyle, Steve Edwards, Ryan Fisher, Norman Foster, Andrew Hedden, Meredith Johnson, Laura Silver, Joe Thiegs, Supat Tipayamongkol.

Approved April 16th

Minutes
Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Meeting, Monday, February 19, 2007
7:00 P.M. Fuller Park

1. Call to Order

2. Approval of Agenda. Moved and seconded. Approved.

3. Approval of Minutes from January 2007. Moved and seconded. Approved.

4. Newsletter. Georgia Stephens discussed the recent history of the newsletter and stated that she will be phasing out of working on the newsletter over the next two issues. Anyone interested in taking a role on the newsletter should email editor@tangletown.org The deadline for the Spring issue is March 19th (next Board meeting) in terms of getting text to the editors.

5. Charter Wine/Beer License for Cafe Ena at 46th Street W. and Grand Ave S. – Erin Ungerman. New café will be opening that will serve latin fusion cuisine. The owners are seeking a wine and beer license. The café will be similar to El Meson. They plan to open at the end of March/beginning of April. Moved to send a letter to the City that TNA does not oppose this application. Seconded. Approved.

6. Unofficial Tangletown website – Bruce Jenkinson. Described a new website he and Susan Birdsey are developing to introduce the neighborhood to newcomers to the areas. The site will have information on history such as the Water Tower and orphanage, and may have links to local businesses. It is planned to go live in a few months.

7. Discussion of Tangletown crime concerns. Jerry Doyle and Tom Balcom will be meeting with the new Police Dept Crime Specialist to talk about recent crime issues. There have been some incidents of repeated vandalism ("tagging") in the last few months. Communication with Washburn has been ongoing to help address this and other student-related issues but there are reports of relatively little progress to date.

8. NRP report – Tom Balcom. Meetings on NRP Phase 2 are continuing and the committee has been meeting with planners from the Park Board on Fuller Park needs and other issues such as boulevards and trees. Jean White also attended that meeting and also this Board Meeting. She is with the Community Education Program at Washburn High School. Jean reported that Washburn is planning an Earth Day cleanup and the student volunteer association may also do some recycling and planting trees as well. Jean also agreed to contact the Washburn administration regarding restarting discussions about neighborhood concerns regarding student behavior. Tom Balcom noted the NRP story in today’s Star Tribune regarding whether there will be a Phase 3 of NRP after 2009. There have been lots of discussions taking place across the city regarding this issue and there will be lots more in the next months and years. Tom attended the Lynnhurst Expo community event last week and it featured a number of booths publicizing various issues or services. In January, All About Family came to talk to the Tangletown board about possibilities of holding an event in the neighborhood. Tom will talk to Fuller about whether it could host a possible Lego Washburn Water Tower event in April or May.

9. Treasurer’s Report – Supat Tipayamongkol. Balance is $7,927.09 at present.

10. Open Matters – Board Members or Members of Tangletown President has the new citizen participation contract. Moved, seconded and approved to have President sign the new contract. Lynnhurst is looking for a neighborhood representative to assist with an Earth Day clean up along Minnehaha Creek.

11. Adjournment. Moved and seconded. Approved.

Attendance: 
Sarah Cortright, Jerry Doyle, Ryan Fisher, Norman Foster, Andrew Hedden, Meredith Johnson, Laura Silver, Supat Tipayamongkol
Other: Tom Balcom, Georgia Stephens, Erin Ungerman, Bruce Jenkinson, Susan Birdsey, Jean White.

Not present: Mary Davidson, Steve Edwards, Joe Thiegs.

2006-2007 Board
Sarah Cortright, Mary Davidson, Jerry Doyle, Steve Edwards, Ryan Fisher, Norman Foster, Andrew Hedden, Meredith Johnson, Laura Silver, Joe Thiegs, Supat Tipayamongkol.

Approved March 19th

Minutes
Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Meeting, Monday, January 15, 2007

7:00 P.M.
Fuller Park

1. Call to Order.
2. Approval of Agenda. Agenda moved and approved.
3. Approval of Minutes. Minutes moved and approved.
4. Presentation by Brian Kelley, Director of All About FamilyMr. Kelley talked about the activities of All About Family in partnering with lots of groups in the city, engaging kids and families in arts, entrepreneurship and architecture-related projects. Neighborhood groups can consider investing some NRP funds into materials for projects (past examples include a LEGO version of the Split Rock Lighthouse). A current project in St Paul is building a church from Fergus Falls and learn about the history of the church at the same time. An idea for Tangletown could be to build a model of the Water Tower. The cost for an event would be about $150 for materials. A number of restaurants and local businesses already sponsor the program. More information is available at http://www.allaboutfam.com The program is aimed at below high school age and requires both kids and parents to be involved. Steve Edwards moved that the NRP committee examine the potential for holding an event like this in the neighborhood. Seconded and passed.
5. NRP report. Tom Balcom reported that two Phase 2 meetings were held in November and another last week. The focus in Phase 2 is on housing. More members of the committee are still welcome and volunteers should contact Tom. The next meeting will include representatives from the City departments such as parks to discuss their five-year plans. The Phase 2 plan will be drafted in February and March. NRP Phase 2 will end in 2009. There will be a few fairs in March that focus on Home Improvement and Energy Conservation that could be a good place to let people know about Tangletown’s NRP Phase 2. Tom is also meeting with a group of other NRP coordinators.
6. NRP survey. The city’s NRP program has sent out a survey for some Tom will confer with Peg Mountin at the next NRP meeting and report back to the President.
7. Treasurer’s Report. Current balance in the main account is $6,139.48.
8. Open Matters – Board Members or Members of Tangletown
9. Adjournment

Attendance: Sarah Cortright, Mary Davidson, Steve Edwards, Ryan Fisher, Norman Foster, Andrew Hedden, Joe Thiegs, Supat Tipayamongkol 
Other: Tom Balcom, Brian Kelley
Not present: Laura Silver (apologies sent), Jerry Doyle, Meredith Johnson

Approved February 19th