Irish Channel Neighborhood Association

Irish Chanel Neighborhood Association

What: Quarterly General Membership Meeting Agenda

When: Thursday, October 9^th, 2008

Where: Irish Channel Christian Fellowship Church

            819 First Street (between Laurel & Annunciation)

Please mark your calendars for this meeting- we will have three presentations from government representatives to bring us up to date on their work and take questions:

1)      Robert Cerasoli- New Orleans Inspector General 

2)      Walt Leger, LA State Representative

3)      US Attorney’s Office

 Final nominations will be accepted and be voted upon for board positions for the Neighborhood Association.

Refreshments will be served and input welcomed!

Please contact me with any questions, and we hope to see you there-

Theresa Conrad

Secretary

May Meeting Minutes

President Ed McGinnis called the meeting to order and began his president’s notes.

He stated that most of the issues around the Irish Channel involve zoning issues and called on Michelle Kimball to assist him in going over the various meetings they had attended over the last month.

They are as follows:

·         Demolitions at 400 Jackson Avenue- GSA is opposing this because they feel the properties could be renovated. The ICNA previously opposed their demolition back in 2001 and since then the owners have maintained a policy of ‘demolition by neglect,’ hoping the  buildings would simply fall down if not cared for.

·         Belladoggie- 801 Washington Avenue- received final zoning approval. The owner has agreed to a title restriction stating that the zoning change will not be grandfathered in if the building is sold and another business comes in.

·         Brix- the zoning committee met with a group wanting to open a tapas restaurant/wine bar in the same building as Design Within Reach on Magazine Street. The owners want a liquor license but no video poker. They are trying to open by August 1^st, but have many hurdles to overcome, one of the most notable being that they are located within a 300 feet of a school and city law states no alcohol shall be served within that radius.

·         Charcoal- Ed spoke with the architects today and signed a Good Neighbor agreement. They have been very agreeable and are looking toward an August 1^st ground breaking once they receive final HDLC approval.

·         NORA- the RFP (Request for Proposals) has been released and there have been several contractors indicating interest already. The bids will close on May 12^th. Our efforts to redevelop blighted housing has been favorable mentioned in several publications recently, including the Chronicle of Philanthropy.

·         HANO scattersite on Tchoupitoulas – A meeting scheduled with the Lower Garden District, Stacey Head and HANO has been postponed until May 27^th. Neighbor Tamela Miller has been working directly with HANO to resolve these open, abandoned apartments which have been used as a dumping site for everything from dead pit bulls to stolen cars. Approval to tear these down was given even before Katrina further damaged the buildings, so Ms. Miller is attempting to get them to follow through.

We then moved on to the crime report since it related to the HANO sites.

Karen Chaubert was called away on business at the last minute and could not attend. She provided notes to Ellen Brandao to share with the meeting.

Karen has been working with adjacent Neighborhood Associations to determine what practical steps we could take to assist them. Two immediate things we could do to improve their everyday work environment and morale are:

1)      Establish a “supply cabinet fund” where the Associations collectively purchase basic office supplies such as toner, pencils and the pastel green paper police reports are printed upon. These things are required for the police to adequately do their jobs, yet they consistently have difficulty obtaining them from the city.

2)      Work with the other Associations to canvas local restaurants for donations of $50 gift certificates to be presented to the Officer of the Month as a token of our gratitude.

Ed added that the police in general and Lieutenant Michael Lohman in particular are to be commended for getting information out to the neighborhood via the email blasts.

Adolph Lopez discussed the progress he’s made in researching the feasibility and implementation of a Crimestoppers donation. As previously discussed, the ICNA is considering a donation of $500 to be placed in an account to increase the reward for information leading to a conviction of a murder within the neighborhood. The police will work with us to determine which crime would be most likely to produce information so the money could be best spent, and if no one came forward the money would eventually be returned to us.

Ed has been working with the Marriott on continuing work on the Kaboom! Soraparu park build. Marriott has given an extra $500 toward the project to construct additional barriers to keep cars from driving over the adjoining grass and endangering the children.

Additionally, Tamela Miller has begun a new Kaboom! application on a small park across from the aforementioned HANO scattersite. It is still early in the process, but once NORD (New Orleans Recreation Department) approves the build we will be put on the waiting list for a donor.

So ended the Committee Reports.

Old Business:

Ed discussed the possibility of a meeting format change. His recommendation is that we revise our schedule to have monthly board meetings instead of membership meetings. These board meetings would still be open to the public for anyone who wished to attend, but would primarily be to focus on the administrative issues that must be dealt with that are not typically very interesting to the average resident.

Quarterly, however, we would have a large membership meeting which would focus on those issues that do affect the neighborhood as a whole. Stacy Head and the 6^th District police officers would be invited to attend. Other possibilities such as a potluck dinner being served or activities for children during the meeting will need to be ironed out.  Quorum was not possible at the meeting, so an email will be sent to determine if people are interested in implementing this change.

New Business:

            The street repaving project has created many concerns in the neighborhood that Ed has been trying to follow up on.

Adolph Lopez voiced his concern that the storm drains are being covered over and are being built up too high to be as effective as they should be and suggested the asphalt should be graded to better drain the streets.

Ellen Brandao has been receiving complaints from her neighbors about confusion about when and where it’s okay to park. Paper  ‘no parking’ signs were stapled up to poles weeks ago and many have blown down. At any rate, the workers come only sporadically, so it’s not feasible to simply never park in the street, given that there will likely be no work on any given day.

She went on to express on behalf of her neighbors and herself how upset everyone is about the destruction of the old street name tiles by the crews. She was treated very rudely when speaking with the workers who have made no attempt to save and protect these city symbols.

Ed has been speaking with Boh Brothers at length about the work they’re doing. The project manager (Mr. Nary) stated that there is at least another week of patching holes in the Irish Channel before they can begin the actual repaving work, which should begin in 3 weeks time. He committed to keeping Ed informed and also states that they will be making every effort to see that no further tile damage is done. Boh Brothers is working to have replicas made to replace the broken tiles.

Ed said that he would contact Mr. Nary to confirm they will be doing proper grading and to address Adolph’s drainage concerns.

Additionally, there are going to be issues with overhanging trees when the repaving begins. Boh Brothers will be bringing in tree trimmers to insure clearance of 14 feet over the street for the paving machines. This will be a concern for many neighbors who have crepe myrtles and other trees planted at the curb. One possible solution for this is would be to wrap the trees in netting (similar to how Christmas trees are wrapped for shipping) for the duration of the work. Ed will contact Mr. Nary to get a specific date on when this will need to occur and send an email explaining this to the general membership.

After determining there were no further issues or question, Ed made a motion the meeting be adjourned. Michelle Kimball seconded, unanimously approved.

 Minutes of the Meeting of the General Membership of theIrish Channel Neighborhood AssociationJuly 12, 2007 

 

            President Ed McGinnis convened the meeting.  The June  meeting minutes were approved.

            There being many new attendees, introductions were made around the room, and welcome extended to all.

            Councilwoman Stacy Head took the floor after an introduction by Ed, who announced she would be speaking to the blighted housing issue in the city. He passed around a binder with photos and a chart he and Michelle Kimball made in the spring, detailing the blighted properties within the Irish Channel.

            Ms. Head stated that her blighted house program will focus on the Irish Channel, because of all the work that has gone into the binder, which will make her job much easier. She is attempting to get NORA funding to assist. She reported that Cheryl Guy has gotten approval to seize and sell properties with health code liens.

            She is going to start with five properties before moving more deeply into those listed in the binder. Those addresses are:

• 2900 Annunciation
• 2342 Chippewa
• 4839 Constance
• Lyons Street (not in the Irish Channel)
• 2815 Annunciation

 

She believes these will go to sheriff sale within the next 6 months.

            NORA has promised to use Ed’s list as part of their pilot program to push these through.

            Belvia Isabelle stated that she believes 2342 Chippewa is currently under renovation, by a new owner who obtained the property through NORA.

            Asked what the best way to deal with blighted properties, Ms. Head advised contacting the Good Neighbor program, then the Health department.

            Asked how a citizen would know what sort of a violation they were dealing with (whether it was a health code issue, for instance), Ms. Head said that unfortunately it is currently up to the citizen to determine who to call. Checking the City Hall website will help with this process. However, she believes that when the Good Neighbor program is improved over the next few months, much of this confusion will be resolved.

            A citizen raised a concern about crime, specifically about the St. Vincent’s corner store. He stated there have been gun battles and robberies. Ms. Head stated that her resources are focused upon Nick’s grocery on the corner of Washington and Annunciation, but that some of those same tactics may be used to help with the situation.

            Asked what action she was taking about Eddie Jordan, the District Attorney, she stated she doesn’t support the call for his being recalled. It would be almost impossible to actually force him from office, and she does not want to alienate him further. He has eighteen months left in his term, and she does not want to go into that time constantly doing battle. She is heartened that his office has hired 8 new prosecutors with violent offender experience. The prosecutor for the case that has gotten so much press coverage where a violent offender was released had only five years of experience.

 

            Ed McGinnis thanked Stacy Head and proceeded to give his notes:

            He has been attending other neighborhood association meetings as well as giving presentations on legislative candidates.

            There is a cleanup planned for July 23^rd.

The neighborhood participated in a Silence is Violence march starting at  Sophie’s Ice Cream parlor, winding through the Irish Channel, ending up at Rue de la Course. Captain Bardy attended.

Announced that there is a Neighborhood Partnership meeting, which will be a summit of various neighborhood organizations in the city. The idea would be to create a powerful force in each neighborhood so that any party looking to build or create change in the neighborhood would have to come to the Association first.

He and Charles Burck met with the pastor at Rachel Sims Baptist mission, and a piece on their organization will appear in the next newsletter

 

Charles Burck made a motion to invite candidates for our district to come and speak. Seconded by Chris Horrell, passed unanimously.

 

There was a meeting of the board the previous Monday where the board discussed the roles of the various committees and some of the issues we have to deal with in the near future.

 

Committee Reports: 

Police & Crime (Karen Chaubert, chair): Encouraged everyone to attend NONPACC meeting the following week and explained what the crime sheets are.  Stated that Captain Bardy has recently arrested two suspects in recent house burglaries near Louisiana and Magazine Streets. She also said that Bardy is personally out patrolling the neighborhood.

Chair then went on to explain the differences between “Neighborhood Watch,” which is difficult to implement and must have the participation of all neighbors, vs. “Neighbor Watch,” which is much easier and can be built one person at a time. This would go beyond just watching for crime but includes things such as checking on the elderly, and sharing of phone lists.

Sarah Johnson added that the phone lists are good for getting more people to call the police when there’s an issue. The police will come more quickly when they have multiple complaints.

Ed McGinnis requested that further specifics wait for the Block Captain report.

Chair informed the membership that if they’re having an issue with graffiti, she has a resource to help get it painted over.

 

Schools (Cele Husing, chair): There are currently two recovery schools in the district, but this charter is only good for three years. On the forth year, something else will happen, but no one knows what. They may go back to the Orleans Parish, perhaps. Laurel St. Elementary school got KaBoom! To come in and help them, and Live Oak has new teachers and there is much hope for the future. Ed McGinnis stated that Live Oak is very eager to work with ICNA.

 

KaBoom!(Cele Husing, chair):  The bill to fund the new KaBoom! Project at the Hill School has been pushed back to October. Ms. Husing has a conference call on Monday with the Kaboom headquarters.  She feels we’ve “covered all our bases and are in good shape.” The biggest challenge will be getting many local kids to come to design day. This is a critical piece of the build as it will give the children ownership and they will be less likely to destroy the equipment.

 

Newsletter(Charles Burck, chair): Newsletter promised within a week or two

 

Bylaws (Sarah Johnson, chair): Chair announced changes to bylaws. They will be emailed out and voted on next month before turning them over to the attorney.

 

Membership (Sarah Johnson, Theresa Conrad, co-chairs): Theresa Conrad stated that although there was no work specifically for the committee, a new website was under construction and should be available in the next week or two. The new site will focus on interactivity and security. All opinions from the membership are requested.

 

Block Captains (Mike Fairchild, chair): Chair explained that this is a brand-new committee that will help the Crime committee implement the Neighbor Watch program. Requested that anyone who would like to get involved speak with him.

 

Committee reports concluded.

 

 

    The President opened discussion about the Night Out Against Crime, to be held August 7^th. Requested that if members don’t want to host a party, they at least attend one. Detailed for the membership the board’s debate over the location- whether it should be in Clay Square, or combined with an existing party at the corner of 2^nd and Constance.

 

Cele Husing suggested we offer a $50 reimbursement to anyone throwing a party for ice, hot dogs, soda, etc.

 

Karen Chaubert pointed out that if we are going to implement the Neighborhood Watch program, members should know that these parties are highly recommended by the program.  If you do want to have a party, you must register it with the Crime Prevention Unit at 504-658-5588. If you need barricades, they can provide them for free.

 

Sarah Johnson stated she felt we should have it in Clay Square to help counteract the drugs and crime in the area. Theresa Conrad stated she agreed, and added that in our very first newsletter we stated we were ‘adopting’ the park, and we should stay true to that idea.

 

Ellen Brandao stated that their party at 2^nd and Constance was a big success last year.

 

Chris Horell made a motion that the party be held in the park, Sarah Johnson seconded. Michelle Kimball amended the motion to be dependant on a treasury report before committing any funds. Budget for Night Out Against Crime to be determined as funds allow.

 

Cele Husing’s suggestion to reimburse party holders was held for the treasurer’s report as well.

 

Ed McGinnis suggested we create a big ending for the night, and create a reason for all of the people who held smaller parties to come to Clay Square at the end of the night.

 

Ed McGinnis made a motion the meeting be concluded, Charles Burck seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

 

 

 

Action Item: St. Vincent’s Corner Store- Councilwoman Stacy Head will set up a meeting with the owners and a translator

Action Item: Investigate integrating gmail calendar into the new website under development. 

 

Minutes of the Meeting of the General Membership of the

Irish Channel Neighborhood Association

June 14, 2007

            President Cele Husing convened the meeting.  The May meeting minutes were approved.

            Ms. Husing spoke about the possibility of undertaking the building of a playground at Soraparu

Park with KaBOOM!  The

Hill

School has done the necessary grant application with KaBOOM!  The grant application was approved, but the school elected not to pursue the project for various internal reasons.  Ms. Husing proposed that ICNA pick up the project.  The build is scheduled for August or September.  The funder has been identified, though not announced.  Two hundred volunteers are required.  The funder supplies 100 volunteers.  The neighborhood will be responsible for finding 100 more.  Ms. Husing feels that through ICNA, Rachel Simms, Stacy Head and the neighborhood that this will be no problem.  The value of the playground is $100,000, but will cost the neighborhood nothing.

            The neighborhood is still eligible to apply for one more grant from KaBOOM! for a playground.  Ms. Husing suggested that the space at Tchoupitoulas and Toledano and Live Oak School should be considered.  Live Oak is an elementary school and does not have any play equipment.  Ms. Husing said that KaBOOM! is very enthusiastic about working with the Irish Channel.

            Melanie Miranda stated that she had a very good experience working with KaBOOM! at the

Laurel

School build.  She said they are very organized.  She said, however, that when the gate is locked at Laurel Elementary, neighborhood children are not allowed to play there.

            Ms. Husing said that KaBOOM!’s goal is to build 100 playgrounds on the

Gulf

Coast.  Usually, neighborhoods must put up $10,000, but this financing is being waived.

            A motion was made to move forward with the KaBOOM! Soraparu project and to put Cele Husing in charge of the ICNA KaBOOM! committee.  All were in favor and the motion passed by voice vote.

            Ms. Husing discussed KaBOOM!’s planning process and passed around a sign-up sheet for the KaBOOM! committee.  Those who signed up were given paperwork and guidelines provided to Ms. Husing by KaBOOM!

            Ed McGinnis spoke for the Clean-up Committee.  Four weeks ago, about 45 people cleaned up 6^th and 7^th Streets.  La Divina Gelateria provided delicious snacks at the end of the work day.  Three weeks ago, 20 to 25 neighbors cleaned up 8^th and 9^th Streets.  Radio station 99.5 came out and took photographs and invited Ed and Charlie to come down to the radio station.  Charlie Burck has also put an Irish Channel community webpage online.  (Tess:  can you add the address?)  Ed was invited down to the radio for a roundtable and ended up being asked to do an audio spot for the neighborhood.  Last Saturday, around 14 neighbors helped with the KaBOOM! build at Laurel Elementary.  Omnicron, a build sponsor, gave $50,000 to the school at the end of the day.  A neighbor who works for Chevron and lives near Laurel Elementary told Ed that Chevron would like to help the school.

            The next clean-up is scheduled for this coming Saturday.  Stacy Head has asked that we re-do

Washington and Sixth, though this is not next on the planned grid.  A discussion ensued.  A neighbor recommended that we target known drug hotspots as well.    It was decided that

Washington and Sixth will be the streets for next Saturday’s clean-up.  A motion was made, and passed, that Ed McGinnis and Charlie Burck create a schedule for the next quarter.  Additionally, Charlie Burck made a motion, which passed, that the start time be moved up to 8:30 a.m. for the summer.

            It was also suggested that we need clean-up t-shirts.  A neighbor suggested LaChiva at Tchoupitoulas and Soraparu.  A motion was made in favor of creating and ordering t-shirts; the motion passed.

            Michelle Kimball spoke for the zoning committee.  She appeared before the HDLC last week and asked for a deferral in the matter of the proposed tear down of

2325-27 Rousseau Street

.

            Harvey Stern informed those gathered that the final council hearings on UNOP are scheduled for June 30 and July 1.  The last chance to check the plans is July 1.

            Mike Humphrey said that he has gotten calls from neighbors wondering what to do about blight.  Michelle Kimball and Ed McGinnis said that there is a big problem with enforcement regarding blight in the city.  There is a plan in the works to do something, i.e. a forum, to shame the city into showing up.  Michelle and Ed have compiled a list of all the blighted properties in the neighborhood.  Ms. Head asked them for a book of photographs and addresses.  From the city’s last compiled blighted properties list to the list made by Michelle and Ed, one-third to one-half have been renovated.

            Karen Chabert spoke for the police committee.  There is a Silence is Violence walk scheduled for June 28 from 7 to 9 p.m.  Ms. Chabert will send an e-mail to the entire membership about the event.  She also said that the police internal affairs unit is available to do presentations.

            A neighbor reported that someone broke into his warehouse and stole a trailer.

            Another neighbor reported complaints about loitering and possible drug dealing at the store at First and Constance Streets.

            It was reported that some officers have been seen resting in their cruisers.  Also, there have been some side window and back door home burglaries.  In addition, one armed robbery was reported and the police have a suspect in mind.  Ten drug arrests have been made.

            Ms. Chabert reminded everyone that the NONPACC meeting is next week.  There will be a crime prevention seminar at UNO on July 14 from 10 to 3.  Iron works companies, locksmiths, and burglar alarm companies will be present.

            The block captain committee had no report.

            The schools committee referred to the KaBOOM! report.

            Charlie Burck asked that submissions be sent to him for the next newsletter.

            The bylaws committee had no report.

            Neighbors expressed concern about speeding traffic on Chippewa, Annunciation and

Jackson.  A neighbor suggested asking Cpt. Bardy for an assignment of motorcycle officers.

            Under old business, Mike Humphrey reported that the actual cost to supply a dog waste bag station is closer to $125-500 per year.  The initial cost is $337 to buy two stations.  Mike is going to contact the

Coliseum Square

neighbor association to ask about their program of nailing up and stocking black mailboxes in their park.  A discussion was held regarding what type of bag to order.

            A motion was made that ICNA continue meeting through the summer.  The motion passed.

            Mark Redding addressed those assembled regarding his desire to tear down a building he owns at 2325-27 Rousseau.  He has made an application to demolish the building.  All exterior openings and the back porch have been significantly modified.  The house is not redeemable.  He will salvage lumber, etc.  The lot will be used for one year as a garden for The Hill School.  At some point, an appropriate building or buildings will be built.  A motion was made that ICNA send a letter to the HDLC stating that ICNA is not opposed to Mr. Redding’s application for demolition and asking Mr. Redding to go along with the architectural committee’s suggestions and not appeal to the full commission when planning his new buildings.  After discussion, the motion was restated:  ICNA will write a letter to the HDLC stating that ICNA does not oppose the demolition.  The motion passed.

            An election for officer and board members positions was held.  The results follow:

President: Ed McGinnisProgram Coordinator: Sarah JohnsonSecretary: Theresa ConradTreasurer: Mike Humphrey  Two Year Board Members:Chris HorrellMichelle KimballAdolph LopezMelanie MirandaHarvey Stern One Year Board Members:Charles BurckEllen BrandaoKaren ChabertMike FairchildCele HusingBelvia Isabelle 

            The meeting was adjourned.

Submitted by Ellen Brandao, Secretary

Minutes of the Meeting of the General Membership of the

Irish Channel Neighborhood Association

April 12, 2007

 

 

 

            Elliott Perkins, head of the HDLC, addressed those assembled.  The Irish Channel is

New Orleans’ most recent neighborhood to be designated an historic district.  All work visible from the public right-of-way is under jurisdiction of the HDLC.  Restoration work and work done “in kind” (replacing existing elements with the new, but otherwise identical elements) is handled at a staff level.  Permits are done over the counter now, instead of taking 3 to 4 days.  Additions and other major work must go before the Commission.  The Commission can approve things out of the guidelines.  The Commission meets monthly.  If the citizen does not like the decision of the Commission, the decision can be appealed to the City Council.  The HDLC has no jurisdiction over publicly-owned property.

            Regarding future development in the Irish Channel, Mr. Perkins recommended that the neighborhood come up with a vision of what it desires.  The HDLC will look to us for guidance.  The HDLC can tell a developer that his/her plan will never make it through ICNA, for example.  However, the HDLC needs to know what ICNA wants.  One area that needs ICNA’s attention is the Tchoupitoulas corridor.  Upon questioning, Mr. Perkins stated that once ICNA completes a vision, the HDLC will send someone to help us.  Mr. Steven McNair is the plans examiner for our neighborhood.

            Cele Husing brought up the Shareholders’ Meeting for Reinventing the Crescent, which she had recently attended.  The previous plan for the riverfront development has been scrapped and a new group of architects is in charge of the plan from the Irish Channel to Holy Cross.  Mr. Perkins suggests that the new vision is to bring all citizens down to the riverfront and that the planned park will encompass a variety of different uses.

            When asked to address the perception of inconsistency by the HDLC, Mr. Perkins responded that there is only one building inspector for all districts.  The HDLC relies on neighborhood reporting. The HDLC is hiring a second inspector and by the end of the year will unveil new guidelines.  (The old ones are from 1976.)  When the guidelines are complete, the HDLC will do a mass mailing to all citizens in its districts announcing the availability of the new guidelines.  The HDLC will need the neighborhoods’ assistance in this effort.

            A motion was made that in the future, anything printed by the ICNA will include information about the Irish Channel’s status as an historic district and information about contacting the HDLC for advice.  The motion carried; all were in favor.  (This motion was originally presented as a resolution and subsequently reoffered as a motion.)  Companies that do non-permitted work are not legally liable.  The homeowner is the responsible party.  The Irish Channel is not currently represented on the Commission.

            Officer John Favaloro III then addressed the membership about forming a Neighborhood Watch.  Officer Favaloro’s phone number is 658-6127. 

            Officer Favaloro suggested that neighbors have a block party and get to know each other.  At the party, the neighbors should make an emergency call list.  Neighbors can then watch out for each other and call each other to report suspicious activity.  Officer Favaloro passed out hot sheets and pamphlets titled “How to be a Good Neighbor.”

            In response to a question, Officer Favaloro suggested that when calling the Sixth District to find out about an incident involving the police, that one ask for “a rank,” a detective.  Officer Favaloro said that the police cannot be responsible for locking up

Clay Square

at 10 p.m. each night, but that Stacy Head’s office might be able to help.  He said that all city ordinances are available for perusal at www.municode.com.

            Next, Cele Husing addressed the assembly.  She suggested that ICNA create a vision for the riverfront park.  She also recommended that ICNA be organized about what sort of access we want to the park.  The next meeting in the Reinventing the Crescent is Friday, April 13.  She recommends attendance at these meetings. 

Ms. Husing suggested that the Zoning Committee undertake a mass mailing to inform neighbors of our Historic District status and both the constraints and zoning protection afforded by this status.  She suggested inviting the neighborhood to a meeting at which a plan and vision will be formulated for the future.

Ms. Husing  recently spoke to the principal of the

Hill School.  The grant to Kaboom! for the play equipment has been approved.  The

Hill School will need 200 volunteers for a one-day build.  A neighborhood metal manufacturer has offered to make panels to enclose the park with existing posts.  Michelle Kimball pointed out that the plan to enclose the park needs to be checked out with the proper authorities.

The next ICNA election will be held in June.

Next followed committee reports.  Ed McGinnis spoke for the Clean-up Committee.  Two new members were gained from sheets handed out at the clean-ups.  This Saturday’s clean-up will be from First to Soraparu – meet at 9 a.m. at the Magazine Street Po-Boy Shop.  The weather may be bad.  Watch for e-mail updates.

No reports were made by the Membership or Zoning Committees.

The Police Committee is looking for volunteers.  Neighbors were reminded to go to the NONPACC meeting held the third Thursday of each month at the Pontchartrain Hotel at 7 p.m.  A neighbor suggested that the Guardian Angels be invited to speak to the membership at the May meeting.  A brief discussion was held about “Sarge’s” status with NOPD.  There is some confusion whether he is a NOPD employee.

A discussion was held about the security district process.  Betty Jefferson has been asked for the financial information needed on the district.  This information is necessary in order to find out how much the private patrols will cost.  We’ve yet to receive this information and have missed the deadline for this year’s election.  We must now wait two years.  Shelley Landrieu estimates that one vehicle, staffed for 24 hours a day year-round would cost $240,000.

The Block Captain Committee is looking for direction.  A neighbor suggested that it might take on Neighborhood Watch.

No report from the Schools Committee.

The Newsletter Committee reports that a brand new newsletter is out.  Cele Husing suggested selling ads in the newsletter.

The Bylaws Committee is working on edits.

Under old business, Cele Husing discussed plans for the next two firemen’s dinners.  She suggests that they be done back-to-back once Jazz Fest is over.

Doggie bag stands in

Clay Square

were also discussed briefly.  A neighbor suggested that we try having one first.  The possibility of Dave refilling the bags was mentioned.

 

Minutes of the Meeting of the General Membership of the

Irish Channel Neighborhood Association

May 10, 2007

 

 

 

In Cele Husing’s absence, the meeting was called to order by Mike Humphrey, treasurer.  A motion was made to accept the minutes of the April meeting.  All were in favor.

A discussion was held about the election for all officer and board member positions to be held at the June meeting.  A motion was made to send out an e-mail to the general membership listing those already nominated and asking for additional nominees.  These nominations will be due June 7, one week before the June meeting.  The motion passed.  Michelle Kimball will be consulted to see what the bylaws instruct about election of two- versus one-year board member positions.  Currently, all board member terms expire at the same time – they need to be staggered.  Mr. Humphrey suggested that three of the two-year positions should be converted to one-year positions for one year and changed back to two-year positions at the next election.  A motion was made to put the nomination slate on the agenda for next month.  The ballots need to be made ready as well.  A motion was made to set the cut-off date for nominations as June 7.  All were in favor.  Both motions passed.

The following individuals were nominated for the indicated positions:   Tess Conrad, Ed McGinnis — President; Sarah Johnson, Program Coordinator; Secretary — open; Mike Humphrey — treasurer; Melanie Miranda, Adolph Lopez, Harvey Stern, Karen Chabert, Peter Abbotsford, Belvia Isabelle, Michelle Kimball, Ed McGinnis, Theresa Conrad, Charles Burck, Mike Fairchild, Chris Horrell, Chase Jones and Cele Husing – board members.

Another motion asked that those present introduce themselves.  All complied.

Ed McGinnis spoke on behalf of the clean-up committee.  There will be a trash pick-up this Saturday at 9 a.m. along Sixth and Seventh Streets.  NOPD will escort the group.  Flyers have been passed out.  There may be OPP prisoners and a representative from Stacy Head’s office.  Ms. Head has secured compact fluorescent bulbs to pass out to neighbors so they can affordably leave porch lights on at night.  Some publicity has been done, including an announcement on WWOZ.  Ms. Head sent out an e-mail to her staff and the Garden District and copied Councilmen Fielkow and Thomas.  La Divinia will provide gelato and cappuccino for volunteers.  There may be press there.  Mr. McGinnis reminded the neighbors that this Saturday’s area is a troubled one and needs our attention as neighbors.  Officer Favaloro will be there.  Three weeks ago there were three shootings in four nights within a half-block in this area.  A meeting with Captain Bardy, Stacy Head and interested neighbors resulted in a promise to shift resources into this part of our neighborhood.

Chris Horrell made a motion asking that ICNA send a letter to Captain Bardy and NOPD thanking them for their help in the past several months and particularly in the last three weeks to help in this area.  The police always come to our meetings when invited.  Two ideas would be communicated in this letter.  We appreciate the police and we want to reciprocate.  The Mayor, Riley and City Councilmembers will be copied on the letter.  Mr. Horrell will write the letter and send it via the secretary to Cele Husing for signature.  All were in favor of the motion.

A neighbor pointed out that the trash flyers have become trash themselves.  A discussion was held about a better distribution technique.

Mr. McGinnis also reported contact with several local churches, including Faith in Action, Greater Antioch and Rachel Simms.  Rev. Francois at Faith in Action and Larry Diaz at Rachel Simms expressed interest in trying to attend ICNA meetings.  Rev. Diaz will try to attend in the fall.  A message was left at Greater Antioch.

There was no report from the membership committee.

Mr. Harvey Stern spoke for the zoning committee.  The liquor application from Magazine Street Po-Boy Shop is still pending.  Stein’s has applied as well. 

Sucre is applying for a liquor license.  It is open until midnight.  Mr. Stern discussed specific zoning recommendations for corner grocery stores and along Tchoupitoulas in the UNOP District 2 plans.  The Neighborhood Overlay District allows the neighborhood to say what specific uses are applicable and appropriate. 

A neighbor mentioned a double on

First Street

between Chippewa and Annunciation that is being worked on.  The plans call for round columns which strike the neighbor as inappropriate for the block.

            A discussion was held about Irish Channel properties on the consent agenda at the HDLC meeting May 11.  Mr. Humphrey suggested that prospective buyers should check with the HDLC before buying a home in the Irish Channel to make sure the property is in compliance.

            Karen Chabert spoke for the crime committee.  She said that the guardian angels have not called her back.  Ms. Chabert reported that 22 cameras in the neighborhood are working.  By May 18, 3 more will be working.  The district has 12 hotspot cameras that can be moved.  E-mail the police if you want a camera on your corner.  Nick’s grocery store has been given a summons regarding keeping the area clean.  They pled guilty today.   There will be a Night Out Against Crime at the corner of Second and Constance Streets.  There was also interest expressed in having hot dogs at

Clay Square

.  There is a NONPACC meeting next week.  A motion was made to purchase a laser pointer for the Sixth District’s use at NONPACC meetings.  The motion passed.  Ms. Chabert will purchase the pointer.

There was a discussion about locking

Clay Square

at night.  Ms. Chabert offered to call the GDSD to see if they could be contracted to lock the park gates.  A motion was made to buy two doggie bag stand at $88.95 each.  One will go in

Clay Square

; the other will be placed in the park behind the contemporary furniture store on

Magazine Street

.  The motion passed.  Neighbors will take care of concrete pouring and installation of the stands.

            Mr. Abbotsford was queried regarding ongoing research into the security district issue.  Mr. Burck, who had previously posed questions to Mr. Abbotsford in an e-mail,  offered to help with the research effort and this offer was gratefully accepted.  February/March is the earliest ICNA can do anything on the security district effort. 

            Regarding the bylaws committee, Sarah Johnson has been very busy at work.  Ms. Johnson has the notes regarding planned changes.  The edits must be typed up and sent around for review.

            Under new business, a neighbor brought up changing our meeting night from Thursday.  Thursday is the only day our current hosts, Irish Channel Christian Fellowship, have room for us.  Other meeting places were suggested.  After a discussion, a motion was made to ask the membership committee to come up with questions for a mass mailout.  One of the questions will be what night is best for attending an ICNA meeting, posed as follows:  “If you plan to attend the ICNA meetings . . . “ in such a way that indicates commitment to attend.  Tess Conrad offered to put these questions together and send them around to the Board.  The motion passed.

            A neighbor mentioned her desire for a speed bump at a certain location.  Another neighbor stated that speed bumps are not allowed in city streets.  There is a police cruiser monitoring the neighborhood with flashing lights on.  This cruiser has been issuing tickets as well.

            The meeting was adjourned.

Meeting Minutes of the Irish Channel Neighborhood Association

 February 2006 Minutes  3/9/2007 11:11:35 AM

Minutes of the Meeting of the General Membership of the Irish Channel Neighborhood AssociationFebruary 18, 2007Captain Bardy addressed the membership about a spate of recent incidents against single, white males in the neighborhood. The police have apprehended two suspects, both are 16 years old. Responding to a neighbor’s question, Cpt. Bardy thinks the attacks are from a narrow range of people and are not indicative of a culture clash in the neighborhood. Cpt. Bardy mentioned that the busy Mardi Gras season begins tomorrow. Police cars will parallel the parade route on both sides of St. Charles. There was an armed robbery at Gulfstream involving a gold-colored vehicle. The license plate of this vehicle has been ascertained. Officers are walking the beat now, in high crimes areas and areas of high visibility.Cpt. Bardy suggested we get in touch with Eddie Jordan’s office to encourage punishment of the Parasols’ robbers. Rodney Williams and Marvin McCantz have been arrested in this crime. The pair also robbed Verrets Beauty Salon. To follow a criminal in the justice system, go to Google and type in Docketmaster. This will take you to the Sheriff’s site. Enter the first and last names and you will be given a timeline. Cpt. Bardy said that the City Council has decided to hold off on enforcing ordinances against PODs in the street. Check the police blog on the ICNA website for phone numbers regarding the police Mardi Gras breakfast and how you can help.

The owner and operator of the Magazine Street Po-Boy Shop addressed the membership. Mr. Ray Movahed and Mr. Al Movahed. Mr. Movahed asked for ICNA’s support in its application for a liquor license. Magazine Street Po-Boy Shop has been in business for 19 years. Four years ago it collected 400 signatures in support of its application for a license. They have no intention of installing video poker machines or selling hard liquor.

The ABO moratorium begins the first Thursday in March and will last for 18 months. It covers businesses on Magazine Street from Louisiana to Josephine. A discussion ensued about ICNA’s desire to support the restaurant versus its commitment to Stacy Head to support the moratorium.

President Cele Husing discussed the need to review and update ICNA’s bylaws. A Bylaws Committee was formed consisting of Michelle Kimball, Peter Abbotsford, Theresa Conrad, Charlie Burck and Sarah Johnson.

Peter Abbotsford made a presentation on the possibility of a private patrol in the Irish Channel. For purposes of comparison, the Garden District is larger than the IC and the Touro Bouligny neighborhood is smaller. The mil max for the Garden District is 19; the mil used is 15-16.5. The mil max for Touro Bouligny is 16.2; the mil used is 12.8. Our mil max would probably be 17.5; our mil used will probably be 13. Mr. Abbotsford guesses that it would cost each IC homeowner $130 per year to fund a security district. Assessments that are frozen are deducted. Mr. Abbotsford proposes that an allowance be made for the disabled. The district would include both sides of Louisiana and Jackson, and neither side of Magazine. A neighbor asked how much it would cost to staff a security district, concerned that our millage would not pay for the costs. If the costs go above the cap, the Board has the ability to raise the cap. A motion was made to authorize the President the send a letter to Jalila Jefferson. The motion did not pass. Another motion was made to refer the matter back to the crime committee to discuss the security district process. The motion passed.

Ed McGinnis made a report for the clean-up committee. Charlie Burck and Ed McGinnis attended a leadership training class offered by Common Good which recommended that neighborhood organizations focus on what they’re good at. Community watches and fundraisers for local schools were recommended. Mr. McGinnis noted that we’ve had three trash pickups. They are a source of goodwill in the neighborhood – neighbors out meeting neighbors. He proposes that there be systematic trash pick-ups on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month. He wants to contact churches one week before a pick-up in their area so that the congregations can be notified. Businesses should be contacted as well so that they can clean up their areas. A motion was made to adopt a preliminary plan to ask for volunteers to fill positions. The motion passed. First, a flyer should be made announcing a pick up, with a membership application, etc. on the back. Alanda Bennett volunteered to help. Theresa Conrad volunteered to help with a yard sign along the lines of “Don’t Trash the Channel.” Mr. McGinnis volunteered to contact churches. Mike Humphrey will contact businesses. Connie Dossman will contact local schools (the Hill School, Live Oak and Laurel). Cele Husing will meet with the Methodist Home. Ed McGinnis will contact Roberts Disposal. On March 10, there will be a trash pickup from 9 to 11. The group will meet at Washington and Magazine and will proceed down Washington to Tchoupitoulas.

Charlie Burck proposed that the newsletter be published quarterly. A motion in favor of this proposal was made and passed. A discussion was held about the newsletter to be published after Mardi Gras. Dave Lorch offered assistance.

A discussion was held about the adoption of Clay Square. It is difficult to get in touch with the pastor of Rachel Simms. Karen Chaubert has information on the posts with dog waste disposal bags.

Mike Humphrey made a treasurer’s report and passed around a handout detailing current financial information.

There will not be a St. Patrick’s festival this year. Last year ICNA set up a table and sold a few things. At the ICNA meeting in March, a table for this year will be discussed.

Karen Chaubert sought approval for a donation of $100 each for cleaning supplies for the Sixth District station and for the police breakfast held on Mardi Gras. Approval was granted.

Minutes of the Meeting of the General Membership of the Irish Channel Neighborhood Association January 11, 2007

Carla Parker, legislative aide for Stacy Head, addressed the membership. She reported that Ms. Head has suggested a moratorium on ABOs on Magazine Street from Louisiana to Josephine in response to many complaints made by area residents about the number of establishments along this corridor. Ms. Parker asked that we consider the proposal (the Garden District has been asked to consider it as well). The proposal would place a moratorium on new liquor licenses for one year, with the option to extend for another year. Under the proposal, Ms. Head will deny all new licenses, even those approved by City Planning. There will be no special conditions. The proposal may go on the January 18 docket, though the February 4 docket is more likely. At the end of two years, hopefully there will be relief in the form of businesses in other areas of the city and better enforcement of the code so that new ABOs are more beneficial to the neighborhood and follow the rules. The proposal was approved.

Next, Matt Demeyers of Magazine Street Interests, which manages Walgreens, addressed those assembled. The company is asking for a conditional use to add a single lane drive-thru in the back of Walgreens. The Garden District is in favor of this proposal. Customers will enter the drive-thru on Harmony and exit onto Pleasant. The new store entrance will be on Magazine Street and will be more pedestrian friendly. The interior of the store will be renovated, but the store will not be closed during renovations. The landscaping will be cleaned up. The company will put up cameras in an effort to stop graffiti. Mr. Demeyers said that if an application is made within the next few days, the city will answer in June. Mr. Demeyers can be reached at 284-8880 (cell phone) or 596-6780 (office).

The report of the president followed. There are 17 crime cameras in the neighborhood. There are to be 25 cameras in the sixth district. Only one is currently working. Cpt. Bardy helps choose the locations.Burt Ingraffia, new IC resident, worked for Greg Meffert and offered to do some investigating. Ms. Parker noted that the police foundation has requested funding for laptops in police units. They could receive feed from the cameras on their laptops.

Ms. Husing made a report on the first firemen’s dinner. It was a great success. Two more dinners are planned and the dates will be announced shortly. A breakfast sponsored by several neighborhood groups is planned for the police at Mardi Gras.

Pete Abbotsford made a report on the possibility of a crime patrol. Security districts are separate political entities. Mr. Abbotsford said that the commissioners on the board of a security district are selected from a list submitted by the neighborhood. He would like to see a notice of intention to file for November. The city pays for the election and advertising. F.J. Meneary at the Mayor’s office is a great resource for this process. A millage will be placed on property owners of a couple of hundred dollars per year. Ms. Parker said that Stacy Head will support this endeavor.

Ms. Husing made a report for the bylaws committee. The Letters of Incorporation were filed in 1976 and have expired. They need to be redone. Additionally, our non-profit status needs to be re-registered.

Carla Parker reported on the Magazine Street closure. The closure will be the first order of business at the January 18 10 a.m. City Council meeting. All involved parties will be brought together and put in front of the public.

On January 23 at 10:30 a.m. Tony Facian and Donna Atkinson will report on the progress of the Good Neighbor Plan for the Housing Committee meeting.

There are plans for a clean-up of Washington Avenue from Magazine to Tchoupitoulas on Saturday at 9 a.m.

Call 658-2299 for replacement of stop signs. New signs will take much longer.

Mark Redding, neighbor and Hill School parent, announced plans to apply for playground equipment for the Soraparu playgroups from Kaboom! On the agenda for February is the plan to adopt Clay Square. Why are the gates locked, one neighbor asked?

 Captain Bardy came to address neighbors’ concerns regarding the two murders in the IC this week.  Two arrests have been made already.  The ATF is involved and have the two men in federal custody.  Cpt. Bardy also gave a progress report on the installation of cameras in the neighborhood.

            Regina Bartholomew, candidate for Congress (Rep. Jefferson’s seat), made a presentation.  She outlined her ideas regarding education and housing, among others.

            Cele Husing addressed those present on the Puccino’s matter.  A hearing on Puccino’s request for a liquor license (so that it may have video poker machines) has been deferred by the City Council until November 19.  An e-mail was sent to the association by Cele Husing calling on members to take action.   Puccino’s request for a conditional use should be denied because it does not meet the definition of a standard restaurant.  Ms. Husing is contacting City Council members to explain ICNA’s position.

            Sarah Johnson addressed the group seeking members for a bylaws committee.  A meeting of all committee heads and those interested in joining committees will be held at Alexander’s on Magazine Street on Monday, 10/16 at 7 p.m.

            Karen Chabert announced plans for a flyer contest.  The flyer will announce ICNA meetings in an effort to increase membership.  The winner will receive an ICNA t-shirt!  Ms. Chaubert also spoke about the ICNA website’s crime forum and requested that two members join the crime committee.  Ms. Chaubert thinks that ICNA needs a social director, as well!

            Reverend Tilton addressed the group regarding crime in the neighborhood.

            Charlie Burck agreed to chair the newsletter committee.

            Cele Husing brought up the topic of the Irish festival which used to be held in conjunction with the Irish Channel parade.  She offered a history of the association’s festival.  She suggested that ICNA close off

9^th St.

and sell sandwiches and beer this year with an eye toward growing into a true festival/neighborhood school fundraiser in years to come.  It was agreed that we should look into how easy it is to have a street closed off for this purpose.

            A packet of information compiled by Sarah Johnson including an agenda, committee list, Good Neighbor Plan worksheet, and notices of upcoming meetings was presented to attendees.

 

Members were reminded of the NONPACC meeting held the third Thursday of each month at the Pontchartrain Hotel at 7 p.m

Minutes of the Meeting of the General Membership of the Irish Channel Neighborhood Association

July 13, 2006

A presentation was made by Stacy Head, our Councilperson.  Ms. Head stated that the contract for the city’s trash pick up is being relet.  She is trying to organize a big clean-up day for the area coupled with an education program about littering.  She is organizing an effort to have people drive around checking for trash and issuing citations, starting with the

St. Thomas area.  Ms. Head stated that each neighborhood is going to get to choose a nationally-recognized planner to help with the recovery effort.

A neighbor asked Ms. Head about the crime problem.  She suggested staying in touch with the neighborhood’s quality of life officer.  Her office can help with enforcement of the health code and zoning.

Stacy Head’s office phone number is 658-1020.

Rev. Tilton offered a phone number which got him quick results on trash removal:  877-286-6431.

District Attorney Eddie Jordan made a presentation updating the membership on the state of the criminal justice system.  He would like to see the quality and timeliness of police officers’ incident reports improved.  He would also like to see police officers reporting to court when needed.  He said that people in his office need more training and better salaries, as a major problem is people rotating out of the office. Mr.

Jordan stated that interrogations at central lockup need to be videotaped.  He gave a progress report on his office’s performance.  Mr.

Jordan invited the membership to come watch court proceedings.

Mr.

Jordan said that on August 1 there will be a crime summit put on by the City Council.

Mr. Lex Kelso then made a presentation regarding the two lots at the river, Uptown corner of Washington and Laurel which he currently has under contract.  He plans to build a double on each lot.  He asked the membership’s support for two zoning variances.  At issue are the

Laurel Street

setback and two off-street parking spaces for the house to be built on the corner lot.