Historical April–May 2010 article. Dates, prices, services and contacts describe the source period; current availability has not been established.
The meeting was called to order by President Katrina Stierholz at 7:10 pm. Financials: Katrina went over the financials from Davis Associates, CPA.
She briefly described the reports included, and stated that she had found several errors. Lyda interjected that the memo from Davis Assoc.’s was important in noting that they had processed the material as it was received.
The material had not been audited by their agency. Katrina pointed out that some of the discrepancies were the income from SDCHC and the rent. Norb brought up taking the issue to the Finance Committee. Karin noted that the Finance Committee was reviewing the problems, but they are all new also, so they are just sorting through it as well.
There was discussion amongst board members regarding the necessity of rectifying past financial statements. Paul asked whether there was an engagement letter with Davis Associates. Katrina stated that she has a letter from the agency noting what they would do for their fee. Paul questioned whether there was money available for hiring an outside accounting agency. Katrina responded that there was no funding. Norb was concerned with the finances going forward; will the Board be in the same position a year from now? Katrina described the action plan for 2010, the separation of finances, and the in-house use of QuickBooks. Budget: See attached. Katrina went over the proposed 2010 budget.
The year to date amount is through January.
Some items are listed in 2009, but not 2010. Dan Lodholz questioned whether the event items expenses and profits were net or gross. Bob asked if the executive director salary had been set aside for 2010. Katrina responded that there was currently $10,000 set aside for the position, though it could be used for other expenses. Karin added that she believed we would not be hiring an E.D. until all this had been taken care of. Paul made a motion to adopt the budget, Dan Lodholz seconded the motion. Aldermanic Report: Lyda went over the City’s budget for FY 2010, beginning July 1, there is currently a budget of $430 million.
She briefly described the deficit, $65 million, and some of the cuts being considered.
The aldermen were asked to rank the list of possible cuts, it was ugly.
There is a hearing Wednesday night at 6:30 pm for the public at City Hall for citizens to voice their concerns. One possible issue for cuts is the Ward improvement fund, which goes toward street paving, dumpsters, trash cans, street trees, etc. Lyda has proposed a charge of $5 per household per month for trash pick up, which will still be once a week. President’s Goals for 2010: Have a balanced budget, live within our means, take a step back and decide what our mission is and how we can get there. Also, work with Betul Ozmat of Wash U to create a strategic plan, Betul suggested forming a steering committee, Cheryl moved that we establish a steering committee, Dan Hudspeth seconded it, nominate yourself or others in the neighborhood.
Another goal would be to enhance the Washington Heights area, gain greater participation from that region of the community. Michael is assisting in this endeavor.
He is working with Paul to create a neighborhood association there. Katrina reminded the board of the responsibilities of board members, attendance, participation, committee contributions, etc. Dan also brought up the need to reach out to less involved neighbors. Also, Katrina solicited feedback from the board. CDA: Working on Personnel Schedule and Inventory List. Still working on the reimbursement for Accounting Agency, seems to be in the process. Grant Writing Procedures: Paul went over the procedure for writing grants in the Board’s name.
He noted that it was vital for the by-laws to reflect the Board’s goals and mission.
The WEAC was previously an unincorporated entity, now the WEAC is filed as a DBA. Does the WEAC need to make its own incorporation or is it part of the SDCC? Apparently the WEAC was once a separate entity, but paperwork failed to be filed, etc. Paul stated that unless there is a compelling reason to incorporate separately, it is unnecessary. Rachel made a motion to give approval, after the fact, for a grant for the McPherson Garden for $1,000, Michael seconded the motion. Dan Lodholz made a motion to formalize WEAC as an SDCC committee, Dan Hudspeth seconded. SDCHC: Dan Lodholz asked if there was any response from Alderman Williamson regarding the DeGiverville burnt-out house. Gary added that it takes six months to become considered a problem property, that occurred in January, and should result in increased penalties. Beautification Committee: Andy began by thanking Sean for all his hard work this past year, and all of his help.
There will be a McPherson Garden meeting Saturday, February 27th at 10 am.
There is already a wait-list for the garden. Gateway Greening has approached Andy about becoming a Hub Garden, which would entail more visitors to the neighborhood to visit the garden.
A date for the block captain meeting has not been set. Fundraising Committee: MLK bowling raised $900. Bowling for Skinker DeBaliviere on Monday, February 25, at PinUp Bowl from 11 am to 3 pm.
Please sell tickets!
The Friends Campaign has kicked off. Homecoming, Saturday, Sept. 25th. Rachel made a motion to use Crossroads School for $500, Liz seconded it. Dan asked about the insurance concerns.
The committee is looking into it. Dine Out Timeline will be next month. Security Committee: See attached. Corporate Compliance: Paul is working with his committee looking into this issue. MLK Celebration: Liz stated the MLK event was a great success.
She is looking for people to serve on the committee for next year.
There will be a panel in March at Grace and Peace Church. Nicole Blumner has volunteered to head the Residential Committee.
If you are interested in working on the Residential Committee talk to Nicole.
She will be leaving the Board, and we are seeking someone to take her place. Bob made a motion to enter into closed session. Paul seconded it. New Business: Take Back the Night requested permission to go through the neighborhood, as a courtesy, Rachel made a motion in favor, Nicole seconded it. Katrina adjourned the meeting at 9:00 pm.
Originally published in The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, April–May 2010.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Archival transcription note: Printed Monday February 25 bowlingdate was Thursday 2010; retained.
Original source: SD_Times2010_04.pdf, printed page(s) 6; PDF page(s) 6.
