Historical April–May 2005 article. Dates, prices, services and contacts describe the source period; current availability has not been established.
Meeting called to order at 7:05 PM by Vice-President Liz Johnson. Board members and guests were introduced. Financial Report: Treasurer Peggy Droege presented the November 2004 and December 2004 financial statements as well as the draft budget for 2005. Peggy noted that efforts have been made to trim expenditures from the 2005 budget, however a small operating deficit remains.
To close the gap, the Council must look for fundraising opportunities. Steve Givens stated that Washington University will increase its contribution by $1,000 for 2005.
There was discussion of other possible funding sources.
The financial statements and draft budget were approved unanimously. Security Report: No police representative from the 7th District was available, so Executive Director Laure Porterfield reviewed information about recent criminal activity in the neighborhood. Laure also reported on efforts with police to address a nuisance property in the 6100 block of Washington. Board members and residents discussed several recent crimes in the neighborhood, including car break ins and a house burglary. Executive Director’s Report: Laure Porterfield gave the Executive Director’s report.
The proposed meeting schedule for 2005 was presented and discussed. Board meetings will continue to be on the second Monday of the month.
There was some discussion about whether to cancel one or more meetings during the summer, as has been done in the past.
It was agreed that such changes could be made as the year progresses.
The February board meeting will be held on Tuesday February 15th instead of Monday February 14th, to avoid possible conflicts due to Valentines Day. Laure also noted that neighborhood residents Dan Schesch and Alice Stanley have been appointed to the St. Vincent’s Greenway advisory committee.
A neighborhood planning session is being scheduled at crossroads school. Gary Boehnke gave the report on the Housing Corporation. Gary referred to the minutes of recent Housing Corporation meeting included in the board packet. One item of note is the Housing Corporation’s request that Alderman Lyda Krewson assist in transferring the City-owned vacant lots at the corner of Pershing and Des Peres to the Housing Corporation. Gary stated that the Housing Corporation has no specific plans for the property at this time, but hopes that the transfer to the Housing Corporation would ensure greater long-term neighborhood control.
It was noted that these are the lots that had been sought for creation of a neighborhood dog park. Gary said the Housing Corporation would be open to considering that proposal. Committee/Neighborhood Reports: Ronnie Haliburton and Shirley Polk reported that a fire on Christmas morning completely destroyed a home at 5840 DeGiverville.
The two adjacent houses were also damaged. No one was injured, but the family will not be able to occupy the house again.
The family includes an older couple who have been long time neighborhood residents, and their grandchildren, who attend Hamilton School.
The family lost everything and will need assistance in getting reestablished. At this time it is unclear what specific assistance is needed. Ronnie will keep the council informed of developments so that neighbors can provide assistance. Laure Porterfield reported that the police and firefighters appreciation luncheon, held December 16, was a great success. Special thanks to Ruth Johnson for organizing the event and to everyone who helped. Andy Cross reported that the beautification committee will not be seeking a grant from Gateway Greening this year.
The grant normally pays for soil and mulch at the Community Gardens, but they still have some left over from last year.
The garden should still receive perennials as part of the plant exchange. Andy also reported that Wintermarkt was a very successful event again this year.
The weather was nice, which helped draw a great crowd.
There were a lot of vendors, including many neighborhood residents. Special thanks to Laure Porterfield and Stephanie Schiller as well as Ute Levi, Shelly Parker, Katrina Stierholz, Michele Pike, Rachel Boxdorfer, and everyone else who worked to make the day a success. Liz Johnson reported that the annual Martin Luther King Commeroation is scheduled for this Sunday January 16th at Grace & Peace Church.
The theme is “Making Peace a Reality in Our Time. ” Pastor Kurt Lutjens of Grace & Peace and Pastor Miki Merrit of New Cote Brilliante Church of God will be the speakers. Dan Schesch gave a transportation committee update.
It now appears that in early June 2005 Metro will be closing Des Peres at Forest Park Parkway and reopening the Parkway (one lane of traffic in each direction) from Des Peres to DeBaliviere. Steve Givens gave the Nominating Committee report. Steve reported that the following nominations had been received for officer positions: President: . . . . . Dan Schesch Vice President: . . Chris Bubicco . . . . . . . . . . . . Liz Johnson Treasurer: . . . . . Peggy Droege Secretary: . . . . . Alice Stanley No further nominations were received from the floor. Steve distributed ballots and collected them after board members voted.
The slate of officers elected was: President: . . . . . Dan Schesch Vice President: . . Liz Johnson Treasurer: . . . . . Peggy Droege Secretary: . . . . . Alice Stanley There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.
Originally published in The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, April–May 2005.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Original source: SD_Times2005_04.pdf, printed page(s) 7; PDF page(s) 7.
