Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Board Meeting, June 15, 2009
Fuller Park
Draft

1. President Ryan Fisher called the meeting to order at 7:10 PM.

2. The agenda was approved as amended (to include the home tour).

3. The minutes for the May meeting were approved.

4. Home tour: Sarah Cortwright reminded the Board that the tour is September 20th, and homes are needed for the tour. She asked Board members to contact her with possible homes, and she will follow up.

5. The Board approved funding another self-defense class at Washburn scheduled for October.

6. We need an editor for the website and newsletter. The Board discussed the possibility of having a “team” of several people to do these tasks. Sarah will check on outsourcing the layout of the newsletter.

7. We have had several requests to out advertising in the newsletter. If we accept paid advertising, we can’t use NRP funds for the newsletter. Sarah and Mary Jane will check with other neighborhoods about advertising.

8. Tom reported that there have been 15-20 applications for NRP loans. If they are approved, we will probably use all the funds so allocated. Once they are paid back, we can re-loan them or use them for other purposes.

9. July 4th. We have had requests from neighborhood businesses to participate. Perhaps this is a place for the Richfield Swim Club. Ryan will be in charge of organizing. Lynell will organize the raffle donation team. Mary Jane will share the letter she used last year.

10. Ellections. Ryan Fisher, president; Mary Jane Mitchell, vice-president; Bruce Bruemmer, secretary; and Mary Davidson, treasurer.

11. There was no treasurer’s report.

12. Carole provided an update on Fuller Park activities. The Ice Cream Social was a big success. She will get volunteers to run the games for the 4th. The Bloodmobile will be at the park on July 11th. One can sign up online or at the park. A number of parks are showing outdoor movies this summer. Carole has schedules at the park desk.

13. The meeting was adjourned at 8:50 PM.

Mary L. Davidson, Secretary


Members absent: Woody Dixon, Jerry Doyle, Steve Bieringer, Mark Haugen

Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Board Meeting, May 18, 2009
Fuller Park

1. President Ryan Fisher called the meeting to order at 7:10 PM.

2. The Board approved the minutes of the April meeting.

3. Brian Elliot spoke on behalf of Congressman Ellison. He reiterated the Congressman helps people navigate the federal government. He invited residents to call 612-522-1212 between 8:30 AM and 6:00 PM with questions.

4. Councilman Scott Benson provided a local update.
There is a meeting to address the 46th street transit station on June 1, 2009 from 7-8 PM at Martin Luther King Park.
Congressman Ellison is trying to get money for the Lake Street Station.
Legislature: Minneapolis has a $1.4 billion budget. Of this $88.7 million comes from the State. The General Fund pays for most services ~$363 million. In the 2009 unallotment the governor has cut $7 million covered by Burne Grants and is proposing a $35 million cut to moneys to the city.
Closed pension funds have been hit really hard by the current economy. There is no money coming in. The city has been paying these pensions with bond issues.

5. Mary Jane Mitchell reported on the garage sale. By all accounts, the garage sale was successful. 54 families participated. Tangletown made about $400. The decision was made not to specify items for sale at each site because it makes the map too hard to read. Next time we will be sure to notify the city so that the sweepers come at a different time.

6. NRP Housing Program. A mailing will go out soon explaining the program. The deadline to apply is June 15.

7. The Minneapolis Schools Changing Options Plan is leading to greater dialog among the neighborhoods.

8. Plans are underway for the 4th of July festivities at Fuller Park. Our favorite local group, Lynnhurst, f/k/a the Abdomen, will play again.

9. Treasurer’s report. The checking accounts are getting straightened around. The main issue is to verify the expenditures from the NRP account so that the current balance can be available to TNA’s NRP program.

10. There will be ongoing events at Fuller Park this summer. The first is the always popular Ice Cream Social on June 11.

11. Ryan provided an update on the role of the TNA board. The Board meets the third Monday of the month at Fuller Park.

12. Eight people have volunteered (and been elected) to serve on the 2009-2010 Board, in addition to returning board members:
Bruce Bruemmer, Steve Bieringer, Lynnel Voigt, Tom Steichen, Tony Proell, Jane Elias, Dick Fiala, and Mark Haugen.
The Board will elect officers at the next meeting on June 15, 2009.

13. The Board approved making the offices of President and Vice President two year terms.

14. Karl Greeman advised the neighborhood of his plan to open a new restaurant on Nicollet next to the cleaners. It will be called SIP the Wine.

15. The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary L. Davidson

Absent: Meredith Johnson

Minutes
Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Board Meeting
Monday, April 20, 2009
Fuller Park

1. Call to Order
2. Approval of Agenda
3. Approval of March meeting minutes

4. Earth Day event review – Tom Balcolm reported that the event was small in numbers but that much garbage was collected. There was good business sponsorship by Tangletown Gardens (provided gardening gloves at their cost), Diamond Lake Hardware (trash bags), Kowalskis (pastry treats), and coffee (Starbucks?).

5. Lyndale Ave. Bridge update – Tom Balcolm reported that a preliminary meeting was held that was well attended. In mid-May another meeting is scheduled and will give people the opportunity to tour the bridge. The project is budgeted for many millions of dollars and Hennepin County is in charge of the project. Lyndale Ave. will be closed from April to November. They are collecting design ideas now – light fixtures, etc… Any thoughts/ideas
regarding this project should be directed to Tom Balcom.

6. Crime Prevention Update – Amy Lavender – There is a precinct Open House on Thursday, May 14th. There will also be a precinct wide block leader training on May 12. There has been a decrease in violent crimes in Minneapolis as a whole. There were 4 burglaries reported in Tangletown.

7. Minneapolis Public Schools Changing Options Plan – Sarah Cortright reported about the issue of re-establishing boundaries in MPS. We will plan to NOT send a representative from the TT Board at the meeting on Wednesday.

8. Garage Sale – Mary Jane Mitchell – 25 responses so far – last year there were 50 homes but many came in at the last minute. Tom Balcom is working on the maps for the event. There is an ad placed in Star Trib in the annual garage sale calendar which comes out April 21. There was also an ad placed on Craigs List and in the Southwest Journal. There are 10 sandwich boards that MJM located that will be placed on prominent intersections. Signs were divided among TT Board members to be posted in area businesses.

9. Treasurer update and getting TNA books in order revisited – Jerry is waiting to hear from the bank regarding NRP statements Also, the cost is to be determined for the records regarding what will be owed.

10. Increasing TNA Board membership/neighborhood participation – Jerry will bring juice; Ryan will bring cups; Mary Jane will bring cookie dough to make cookies in the kitchen at Fuller. Sarah to contact someone regarding composting. A drawing will be held for gift cards/prizes from local businesses.

11. Adjournment

Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Board Meeting, March 16, 2009
Fuller Park
Draft

1. The president, Ryan fisher, called the meeting to order at 7:10 PM.

2. The Agenda was approved.

3. The minutes of the February meeting were approved.

4. The Board approved final revisions to the By-Laws which will be posted on the Tangletown website.

5. Tangletown will sponsor an Earth Day event on April 18. Tangletowners are asked to meet under the Nicollet Avenue bridge at 9:00 AM.. The first 50 volunteers will receive free work gloves. Bags for trash will be provided, along with some refreshments. Details will be in the Newsletter. The Board approved contributing $250 from NRP funds for this project.

6. Washburn reports that the first self-defense class is full and a second one will be offered on April 27.

7. Plans for the annual garage sale are in full swing. Mary Jane Mitchell has again volunteered to coordinate this effort. Details will be in the Newsletter.

8. Tom Balcom reports that the NRP committee continues its efforts to complete a final plan for the loan program. More information will be in the Newsletter.

9. Norman Foster reminded the Board that Newsletter info is due.

10. The treasurer, Jerry Doyle, reports that we have $7,459.47 in NRP funds and $7,060.98 in the TNA account.

11. Ryan Fisher led a discussion on what we can do to increase Board membership and Tangletown neighbors’ participation in general. The Board agreed to try to make the annual meeting a special event.

12. The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 PM.

All board members were present.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Davidson, secretary

Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Meeting, Monday, February 16, 2009

7:00 P.M. Fuller Park

1. Call to Order

2. Approval of Agenda. Moved and approved

3. Approval of January meeting minutes. Posted on the website. Moved and approved.

4. Neighborhood Revitalization Program update
Final review of NRP Housing Loan Program document.
$400 loan fee must be paid out of NRP funds else we cannot qualify for low interest rates based on Federal lending laws.
Some board members were not impressed with the marketing materials that CEE had produced for other neighborhood programs thinking it might get thrown out with junk mail. Suggestions included making the logo larger, make it more eye-catching, and perhaps work with a graphic designer to produce a more polished mailing.
Targeted mailing was suggested to go out in envelope letter mailing.
Board voted to approve the final version of the document (with minor grammatical updates). Document is approved with all board members present in favor.


5. Treasurer Update and Getting TNA Books in Order Revisited
Jerry Doyle and Ryan Fisher met with NRP representative Peg Mountin to discuss TNA accounting practices and unaccounted for expenses. The city is missing accounting records dating back to 2004. We are in the process of searching for receipts and expenses to bring both of our ledgers up to date.
We found that we have access to much more funds to be used toward noon-food non-fun programming.
Forms and guidelines have been located that had been used in previous years for record keeping which will be used now into the future.
Financial accounting procedures will be better documented for future use.
Jerry did not have account balances available at the time of the meeting, but will email those to the Board.

6. Newsletter
Articles for the next newsletter must be in to Norman by the next Board meeting, March 16, to be mailed March 23.
Mary Jane will write an article regarding the Garage Sale May 1 and 2.
Meredith will write an article regarding the Home Tour house solicitation and volunteer request.
Ryan will write an article regarding 4th of July volunteer opportunities.
Ryan will write an article regarding the May 18 annual meeting.
Ryan will contact Washburn staff, police liaison, and Councilmember Benson’s office for newsletter submissions.
Sarah will contact Creekside Commons for updates on their housing project.

It was recommended that we consider creating an event to held at Fuller Park or elsewhere in the neighborhood for the afternoon of May 2 to coincide with the garage sale event. Unsold items could be brought in for donation to ARC, Goodwill, Salvation Army, etc, and we could make this a social event for the neighborhood. This will be brought for discussion over email.

Jerry spoke with Ron Lischeid who we’ve worked with in years past for our 4th of July event serving hot dogs. Ron is wondering if we’d be interested in working with him again this summer, which we agreed that we would be. Ron is offering extended sales to bring in a corn roaster, soda, and bottled water. The Board felt it would be a good idea to consider expanding food offerings.

7. Bylaw Discussion
Not enough Board members present to make decisions on Bylaw updates. Next meeting we will approve the final version of the Bylaws as they currently stand in order to have them in place ahead of the annual meeting.

8. Increasing TNA Board Membership/Neighborhood Participation
Tabled

9. Adjournment


2008 - 2009 Board
Present: Ryan Fisher, Mary Jane Mitchell, Jerry Doyle, Meredith Johnson
Not Present: Sarah Cortright, Mary Davidson, Chris Burns, Woodie Dixon

Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Board Meeting, January 19, 2009
Fuller Park
Draft

1. President Ryan Fisher called the meeting to order at 7:05 PM.

2. The Agenda was approved as modified.

3. The November minutes were approved.

4. Jean White, Coordinator of Washburn Community Education, spoke to the board about the self-defense program. She asked for our help in funding it. The Board approved allocating $250.00 to the Washburn Self-Defense Workshop for Women and Girls.

5. NRP update. Kristin Rigg, a member of the NRP implementation committee, updated the Board on the work of the committee. She provided the Board with an overview of the Housing Loan Program. Any modifications of the proposal will be provided to the Board by email during the month so that a vote can be taken at the February meeting. Norman will put an article about the loan program in the next newsletter.

6. The Board was provided with copies of the Neighborhood Policing Plan for Tangletown. Strategy includes: Disseminating information on what to do in case of theft, including cancellation of documents to prevent identity theft; reminding neighbors to lock their doors and keep their garages closed; assisting law enforcement by gathering and forwarding information regarding mobile drug dealing to the Crime Prevention Specialist, Amy Lavender, 612-673-5407.

7. Treasurer’s report. Jerry reported that there is $7459.47 in the Tangletown account. There is a discrepancy in the NRP account, and Jerry is working with NRP to get that cleared up.

8. The Community Engagement Commission asked Tangletown to support its wish to work with NRP to select membership. The Board voted against support. There is a meeting on Feb. 21, 2009 to select members for the commission. Mary Davidson agreed to attend this meeting.

9. The Board had a general discussion about how to increase Board membership and neighborhood participation. The garage sale will again be the first weekend in May. Mary Jane Mitchell has agreed to co-ordinate again this year.

10. The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 PM.



Respectfully submitted,

Mary Davidson, secretary

All members were present.

Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Meeting, Monday, November 17, 2008
Fuller Park
Draft

1. Ryan Fisher called the meeting to order at 7:05 PM.

2. The Agenda was approved.

3. The minutes of the October meeting were approved.

4.. Changes to the Bylaws were discussed.
The following changes were approved.
a. Article II, Section 1. subd. 4 was amended to read :”To be educational and advisory in nature.” (To make the provisions grammatically parallel.).
b. Mary Jane moved and Woody seconded amending Article IV, Section 4 to read: “Section 4. Election and Term of Office. Directors shall by elected by TNA members at the annual meeting to be held in June. Directors are elected to two year terms, with half of the seats up for election in even numbered years, and the remaining half up for election in odd numbered years.” An election to fill an unexpired term shall not be so counted. The Directors shall hold office until their successors have been elected and qualified. The term of office of a Director shall commence immediately following the respective election by the membership.
c. Mary Jane moved and Sarah seconded amending Article V, Section 2, A-D to read as follows: A. The President shall serve two years; B. The Vice–President shall serve two years; C. The Treasurer may serve two years; D. The Secretary may serve two years;”
d. Mary Jane moved and Woody seconded that Article VI, Section 2 be amended to read as follows: ”Section 2. Participation. Any individual who meets one of the four criteria above is a member and may participate in any TNA event. Other than for display purposes, no one shall bring placards or banners promoting special interests at a TNA meeting.”
e. Mary Jane moved and Ryan seconded amending Article VI, Section 3. to read as follows: “Voting. All members shall have the right to vote for Directors at the annual meeting.”
f. Ryan moved and Mary seconded the deletion of Article Vi, Section 4.
g. Ryan moved that the Title of Article VII be amended to read: “Meeting of TNA Members”
h. Ryan moved and Mary Jane seconded the deletion of Article VII, Section 6.
i. The language of Article VII, Section 4 was changed to read : “Section 4. Presiding Officer. The President of the TNA Board shall be the presiding officer of meetings of the membership. In the absence of the President, the Vice President shall preside. In the absence of both persons, those present may elect a President Pro
Tem for that meeting.”
j. Ryan moved and Woody seconded that Article VII, Section 7 be amended to read: “Robert’s Rules of Order will be the authority for all questions and procedures at any meeting of TNA.”

5. Tom Bolcom was unable to attend the meeting, but advised Ryan that he has put a committee together and will be meeting on December 8. Mary Jane volunteered to be the Board liaison with the committee.

6. Jerry was absent, so there was no treasurer’s report.

7. It was agreed that we would meet at a local restaurant for our holiday party. Ryan will set the date and poace by email.

8. Sarah moved and mary Jane seconded that the meeting be adjourned at approximately 8:30 PM.

Respectfully submeitted

Mary Davidson, secretary

Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Meeting, Monday, October 20, 2008
Fuller Park
Draft


1. President Ryan Fisher called the meeting to order at 7:05 PM.

2. The agenda was approved.

3. The minutes of the September meeting were not reviewed.

4. Home Tour Report Meredith Johnson reported that the 2008 Home Tour was a success brought in $370, less expenses for floral arrangements for the homeowners participating. We had the same number of people in attendance as last year, despite the cool weather and having only three homes this year. Suggestions to attract more people to offer their homes for the tour next year included advertising in the newsletter further in advance and offering a history of their house, if available.

5. Washburn High School The board heard from three speakers representing Washburn High School: Marylynn Boone, parent liaison and associate educator, Minneapolis Police Officer Antoine Beeks, who serves as a school resource officer and police liaison, and WHS principal Carol Markham-Cousins. Ms. Boone and Officer Beeks informed the board that every issue so far this year has been handled. The park police and the city police work together very efficiently in dealing with incidents in and around WHS. The main issues involve minor youth fights within the school boundaries. At sporting events, there are always four officers plus eight WHS staff members who help provide security. The officers patrol three to four blocks in all directions around the high school. There has been only one incident of tagging this year and it was cleaned up within hours. Principal Markam-Cousins said the school is very committed to being a good neighbor. She also said that they are working on cultural changes, starting with the little things. “The Wiz” school musical will include kids from local grade schools to get them thinking about WHS. Sixty percent of the staff this year is new. R.T. Rybak has recognized WHS as the most innovative high school in Minneapolis.

In response to expressed concerns about litter, trash, and smoking, Ms. Boone said that six trash cans have been ordered to be placed around the periphery of the school. The WHS parent council is being resuscitated and will meet Thursday, October 30 at 6:30 p.m. in the choir room. Bridget Hermann is the contact.

Comments and questions from board members and TNA residents: The flyers inviting neighbors to the WHA Fall Festival were well-received. Residents would like to see an increase in the connection of WHS and the neighborhood – perhaps have students help at TNA events, such as the 4th of July festival and wear their school jerseys to show their pride in their school. The TNA newsletter should have a WHS column, perhaps written by the students, telling about what’s going on at WHS. Would WHS be open to the TNA Board hosting an event for WHS to provide information about the high school, recruitment issues, soliciting volunteers to mentor, tutor, help with events, underwrite the yearbook. School leaders could be invited to the TNA meetings to discuss issues. How about a phone tree to alert neighbors to possible problems? Block leaders could get more involved.

6. Neighborhood Crime Amy Lavender, crime prevention specialist with the Minneapolis Police Department, said that crime is down 17 percent this year, possibly related to the Code Four programs. The recent rash of burglaries in Kingfield and Tangletown has been solved and a suspect is in custody. Ms. Lavender presented the “Dear John” Program to reduce car to car drug dealing and other suspicious illegal activity by making state vehicle registration information accessible.

7. NRP Tom Balcom gave an NRP update. The NRP committee needs a liaison from the TNA board to serve on the NRP Housing Sub-Committee. Mary Jane Mitchell volunteered to work on this. Tom is interested in finding ways to involve more businesses in the process. There are 34 “Slow Down” signs still available and can be picked up at Fuller Park community building.

8. Sandwich Boards Ryan Fisher announced that he has purchased two new sandwich boards for use in promoting TNA events. We will also look into obtaining the other boards from previous officers

9. Holiday Party We will plan this via email.

10. The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 PM.

Present: Ryan Fisher, Meredith Johnson, Sarah Cortright, Mary Jane Mitchell, Jerry Doyle, Woody Dixon, Chris Burns
Absent: Mary Davidson
Submitted by Mary Jane Mitchell in Mary Davidson’s temporary absence

Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Meeting, Monday, August 18, 2008
Fuller Park
Draft

1. President Ryan Fisher called the meeting to order at 7:04 PM.

2. The agenda was approved.

3. The minutes of the July meeting were approved.

4. Molly Hanson and Samantha Loesch spoke to the board about their plans to create Kings Wine Bar Café at the northeast corner of 46th and Grand. This is actually in the Kingfield neighborhood, but Molly and Samantha wanted to keep us advised.

5. Dave Vogelgesang and his group spoke to the board about their plans to redevelop the property at 5422 and 5428 Nicollet Ave (present location of Aqua City). The plan is in the early development stages. The plan is to build a structure with space for three businesses and a restaurant on the main floor and five one-bedroom apartments or offices on the second floor. Anyone with an interest in leasing any of this space should contact the leasing agent, Roz Peterson, 952-469-9444.

6. John Quincy spoke to us on behalf of Vote Yes for Kids, an organization seeking a referendum raising $60 million for Minneapolis schools. More information is available at their website, www.StrongSchoolsStrongCity.org .

7. The Tangletown Home Tour is scheduled for September 28. We are in need of two more houses for the tour. Anyone willing to open their home, please contact Board members, Meredith Johnson or Sarah Cortwright.

8. Tom Balcom gave an NRP update. We now need a committee to implement our plan. Volunteers are needed!! We will work with the Center for Energy and Environment to set up our loan plan primarily for housing.
Tom also has gotten a number of SLOW DOWN signs for our neighborhood. These are available at Fuller Park.
Tom also advised that Tangletown Gardens wants to spruce up the Nicollet Bridge. Also, they have a water truck that might be available to help keep the Water Tower plantings watered.

9. Norman Foster reviewed the content of the Fall Newsletter and asked that all copy be in by August 25.

10. The board discussed proposed revisions of our bylaws.

11. Jerry Doyle gave the treasurer’s report. The 4th of July party at Fuller Park netted over $1000.00.

Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Minutes of August 18, 2008 meeting, page two

12. The meeting was adjourned at 8:35 PM.

Mary Davidson
Secretary

Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Meeting, July 20, 2008
Fuller Park

Draft

1. Ryan Fisher called the meeting to order at 7:05 PM.

2. The agenda was approved.

3. The minutes of the June meeting were approved.

4. Amy Lavender, our new Crime Prevention Specialist gave a crime and safety update. She said that there are not many crimes in our neighborhood. Most crimes are burglaries. People need to remember to close their garages. There is a Fifth Precinct Project to get residents to do a home inventory and keep in a safe place. She also is willing to come to your home and do a safety check. She can be reached at 612-673-5407 or amy.lavender@ci.minneapolis.mn.us.

5. Steve Johnson from Steve’s Tire and Auto advised the board of plans to build a tire and auto repair at 46th and Nicollet. He provided drawings. He plans to begin construction mid-September. Several neighbors came to the meeting to support the plan. An announcement is now posted at the site, and drawings are available for neighbors who want more information. He would like approval from the board. The board asked that it have more input from the neighbors before making its decision. Since Steve is going to an August 4th meeting with the planning commission, we need feedback by August 1, so that we can decide (by email).

6. Discussion of 4th of July. The gathering was a success, but, as always, the hard part is getting volunteers to help. Since the treasurer was absent, the financial results were unavailable.

7. The Tangletown Home Tour is September 28th from 1-5 PM. We are still in need of one more home for the tour. Meredith will begin looking for volunteers to sell tickets and host very soon.

8. Norman asked that material for the newsletter be in by August 25.

9. Tom Balcom is out of town, so there will be an update on NRP at the August meeting.

10. We will review the Bylaws online and be prepared to discuss them at the August meeting.

11. A motion was made, seconded and approved that we purchase two sandwich boards to share with the park (and store at the park).

12. The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 PM.

Present: Ryan Fisher, Sarah Cortwright, Chris Burns, Woody Dixon, and Mary Davidson
Absent: Jerry Doyle, Mary Jane Mitchell, and Curt Killett

Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Meeting, Monday June16, 2008
Fuller Park
Draft

1. The meeting was called to order at 7:05 PM.

2. The agenda was approved.

3. Peg Mountin presented an update on NRP, Phase II. Our first step is to get an implementation committee of 4-5 volunteers to work with Tom Balcom. If anyone in the neighborhood is interested in serving on the committee, please contact Tom or the Board.
The committee needs to develop our loan policy (i.e., what will be the terms of the loans from our NRP moneys for houses and businesses). Peg says that we had a great financial policy in the past. We need to find it.
Peg advised that we need to keep good records and file an annual return with the IRS to keep our 501 (3)(c) statues. We should have a contract file, maintained by the secretary.
National Night Out and the July 4th picnic are good opportunities to get volunteers. Sarah will ask Tom to have information at his table at the picnic (He will have the Water Tower lego structure at the park.).
Peg had many good suggestions, including partnering with the Park Board, the schools, and others in the community on projects.
There is a trainer on the NRP staff, Robert Thompson.

4. Plans for the 4th of July are well underway. Ryan is coordinating the party this year. Although the flyer doesn’t say so, there will be a potluck and a raffle again this year. Board members are soliciting donations from local businesses for the raffle.

5. Board Elections. President: Ryan Fisher; Vice-President: Mary Jane Mitchell, Secretary: Mary Davidson; Treasurer: Jerry Doyle; Communications/Website: Curt Killett.

6. Jerry reported that we have $8090.98 in the treasury; however, there are some outstanding bills.

7. The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 PM.
Absent: Woody Dixon, Meredith Johnson, Chris Burns.

Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Meeting, Monday, May 19, 2008
Fuller Park

1. The meeting was called to order at 7:01 PM.

2. The agenda was modified to include a neighborhood update by Brian Elliott (for Congressman Keith Ellison) and by Council Member Scott Benson, and a garage sale update.

3. The agenda was approved as modified.

4. Nikki Kenney from People for Parks gave a presentation. She explained that this not-for-profit was begun in the ‘70’s with money from General Mills to fund a program to combat Dutch Elm disease. Since then, the seed money has been augmented with other gifts. People for Parks has given money to the Park Board to upgrade the Lake Harriet bandshell, for example. Right now, the organization is looking for projects. There is a website: www.peopleforparks.net; 612-285-6557.

5. Brian Elliott, on behalf of Keith Ellison (612-522-1212) shared Ellison’s primary agenda:
a. Promote peace
b. Work for sustainability for the environment
c. Promote civil/human rights
d. Support prosperity for working families.
Brian also reminded us to use the office as red-tape cutters.

6. Scott Benson, Council Member, Ward 11 spoke.
He can be reached at scott.benson@ci.minneapolis.mn.us. He will provide email updates upon request. He handed out copies of the 2008 Sustainability report (also available on line at www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/sustainability.)
Scott also handed out copies of the Minneapolis Greenprint (contained within the Sustainability Report). The Convention Center has been selected for an urban solar system. Wind power doesn’t work well in the city.

7. Garage Sale update.
Mary Jane Mitchell reported that, despite the weather, the sale was a success. People liked the bright yellow signs. Special thanks go to Carol Anderson at Fuller Park for her help. (She said a number of people came to the park for the first time to collect their signs…good exposure for the park.)

8. The Board voted not to send a letter for Creekside Commons.

8. 08-09 Board Member Election.
Andrew Hedden and Joe Thiegs do not wish to continue with the Board.
Curt Killett (Midwest Art and Frame) and Woody Dixon (City Hall) volunteered to serve on the 08-09 Board, along with Sarah Cortwright, Chris Burns, Mary Davidson, Jerry Doyle, Ryan Fisher, Meredith Johnson, and Mary Jane Mitchell.
Officers will be elected at the June 16, 2008 meeting.

9. Treasurer Jerry Doyle reported that he thinks we have money in the bank. (He has had trouble getting bank statements.).

10. Tom Balcom, our neighborhood historian, reported on a number of events of interest coming up:
A new book about Richfield (we were once part of Richfield) has just come out.
There will be a signing party for a new book about Harry Wild Jones at the Hennepin History Museum on June 14 from 1-5.
Tom will lead a walking tour of the neighborhood on July 26 (meet at 1:00 PM at Washburn Library).
On September 25, the Jones House (1 E. Elmwood, 51st and Nicollet) will have an open house at 6:30 P.M.. Liz Vandam, author of the book about Jones, will speak.
There are programs at the main Minneapolis Library to commemorate the sesquicentennial of the state, July-October. Check the library’s website.

11. Meeting adjourned at 8:40 PM.

Absent: Andrew Hedden.

Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Meeting, Monday, April 21, 2008

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. Garage Sale
25 registrations currently. Registration closes Thursday. Maps will be available at Fuller Park, Caribou Coffee, Green Dog Sports, Tangletown Gardens, Liberty Custard, Betsy’s Coffee Shop, Holiday station, and Washburn Library. 20 maps per location, 50 maps on each sandwich board.
Joe will set up sandwich boards at neighborhood corners. Tom Balcom will assist with creating the maps.


5. Bylaws
Add ability to correspond electronically.
No to online vote, just work out wording for upcoming votes.
Remove subcommittee stuff perhaps, but maybe better to keep for future growth.
Voting: at board election neighborhood votes, all other meetings board only votes.
Missing more than 2 meetings automatically removes an individual from board.
Board membership should become a 2 year term, splitting board in half and having alternating group terms.
Non-neighborhood residents may attend meetings, as meetings are open; however they may not participate in meetings unless recognized and invited to do so by the board.
Board members are required to be involved in at least one major TNA-organized event per year.
Bylaws will be reviewed at least once annually.
Board election takes place once per year. Only in the case of a board member leaving the board can a new member be voted in mid-term.
Consider adding NRP provisions to bylaws.

6. NRP Update
1-2 months before housing money becomes available.
Remainder of funds are available now.
Funding has been cut for all NRPs city-wide.
2011 will not be funded at all.

7. Slow Down signs
East Harriet Farmstead Neighborhood Association proposes neighborhoods surrounding Lyndale Ave. from 38th – 50th Street have available (for purchase) “slow down” lawn signs while that stretch of roadway is reconstructed this summer.

8. Treasurer report
A few less funds than last month due to reimbursements. No major expenses.

9. New Matters
• City home Tour is this weekend with one Tangletown house represented.
• 4th of July food permit has been pulled. Fuller Park staff are prepared to help with the event. Carole Anderson, Fuller Park Director, 612-370-4963, will be point of contact.
• May 16th, 2 – 7pm, Fuller Park Blood Drive. http://givebloodgivelife.org code: 6857

10. Adjournment


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

Tangletown Neighborhood Association
Regular Meeting, Monday, March 17, 2008

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. Carol Markham-Cousins, Principal at Washburn High School
Last minute cancellation…

5. Event dates and assignments (Garage Sale, 4th of July, Home Tour
Garage Sale: May 2 and 3. Mary Jane will head up, with help from Mary and Joe. Place an ad in Star tribune this year, map creation (Google Maps) mailing list email should point to Mary Jane. Garage Sale registration must be received by April 23rd.

July 4th: Ryan will head up. Get notes from Laura Silver from previous year’s experience. Write blurb for newsletter to solicit assistance. Check with Abdomen regarding availability.

Home Tour: September 28.

6. Newsletter
Sarah will pull together a blurb regarding Crosstown construction.
Ryan will write a blurb regarding annual meeting, encouraging individuals and businesses to participate on Board.

7. Earth Day – Will Hale fee
Saturday, April 19, 10:30 AM earth Day cleanup around Washburn High School. TNA moves to donate $350 toward the Earth Day event.

8. Mayflower project update

9. Bylaw revision project

10. Treasurer update
Current TNA account balance is $9565.62

11. Adjournment


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

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

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

Draft minutes available below... Read More...

Plymouth Church Neighborhood Foundation and Mayflower Church have proposed a housing development at 54th Street and Stevens Avenue. This proposal has been discussed at Tangletown Board meetings in May, June and July.

[August 19th update: Please note that the proposal has been modified and the 2007 August 20th Board Meeting items reflect the changed and submitted proposal.]

Documents describing the Proposal are available
Contact jmason@plymouthfoundation.org with any questions:
Jenny Mason
Congregational Partnership Organizer
Plymouth Church Neighborhood Foundation
430 Oak Grove Street, Suite 130
Minneapolis, MN 55403
612-871-0890


"Tangletown Residents for Smart Density" presentation regarding concerns about the proposal is also available
Contact Harry Kaiser kaiserharry@comcast.net with any questions

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.

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.

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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.

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