MLPA.org Minutes in a batch

Minutes in a batch

September 12, 2005 MLPA Board of Directors Monthly Meeting Minutes

I. Call to Order and Welcome
Board members present: Alan Perry, Lee Nunn, Christine Hung, Mae Reich, Kevin Lyman, Shira Kash, Barbara Feinberg, Barry Berlin, Dana Hoybel, Charlotte Gillis, Tad Christian, Trav Carter, James Strack and (after ratification below) Leslie Bryan and Keith Walker

Welcome by Pres. Alan Perry.

II. Approval of minutes
Bill Ellis prepared minutes from August 2005. Not present. Approval moved and seconded. All Board Members present voted to approve.

III. Recognition of Elected Officials and Candidates in Attendance
None present at the beginning of the meeting.

Two Zone 6 officers present: Gourley and Hewitt. After reporting that the neighborhood had been fairly quiet, Officer Gourley urged residents to make certain that the “key holder” for their houses and alarm systems can be generally available in the event of an emergency. Also reported that traffic enforcement (speeding, stop signs, red lights, and school bus violations) has been stepped up since school is back in session.

Problems reported with Smith’s Old Bar – and performers parking in the street or on the sidewalk to unload. Officer Hewitt says they have given warnings but they move the cars before they can be ticketed. They are giving out “winnepegs.” If they are going to tow and owner arrives before the tow truck leaves the scene, they have to give the car back. They can still ticket them.

Report from Anne Fauver - Sidewalk program going into effect. CDRH hearing on Beltline. Tomorrow night at First Pres in midtown (next to the High Museum) – Dave Sjoquist and others from Ga. State – will be discussing TADs.

IV. Introduction of New Board Members

a. Leslie J. Bryan – Secretary
And thanks to Sarah Nunn, long-suffering Secretary and Acting Secretary for a job well done.

b. Keith Walker – Special Events (Tour of Homes)
Keith’s obligations – even though Special Events person – extends only to Tour of Homes and not Celebration of Summer. Still looking for Celebration of Summer chair.

Keith distributed materials outlined preliminary plans for 2006 Tour of Homes – Exhibit 1.

Both elected on voice vote.

V. 2005 Membership Structure/Dues Revision
Board agreed to table all but the most important committee reports in favor of extended discussion of dues structure and membership policies. Written reports are appended.

A. Survey Report
Dayna reported on the results of surveys. There were 205 responses as of last Sunday afternoon. Most members reported knowing about security patrol but those who used services used eblast, newsletter, and directory. People were least aware of zoning assistance, donations to MSE, and Movies in Morningside. On the open-ended questions, people wanted parties/events. They also urged a better website. Many people talked about a more active zoning committee to get involved in regulating construction – in fill housing, construction noise, traffic dumpsters. Also urged more open, friendly meetings. People seemed to be saying they wanted a close-knit community The Survey Results are attached as Exhibit 2.

B. Dues
Attached as Exhibit 3 is the memo with the dues structure options that was the topic of discussion.

Options under discussion:

Option 1: Keep the same structure and same dues.
Option 2: Keep the same structure but raise dues to MLPA 50, MSP 225 (50 of which is MLPA’s) and Seniors 20/130.
Option 3: Eliminate seniors category and raise dues to: MLPA only 50, MSP 190 (20 of which is MLPA’s)
Option 4: Eliminate MLPA only dues (universal membership), MSP $200 (only members receive security services but blended budget), 25% senior discount.
Option 5: multiple membership levels – first level $25 or $30; second level “MSP Lite” – pay per diem for what you use; third level Full MSP $170; fourth tier – total package including Tour of Homes tickets, etc.

After extensive discussion, the following votes were taken:

Motion was made and properly seconded to retain the current dues structure but, in the next year, to look at “value added” services to reduce fund-raising pressure on the Tour of Homes.

Motion failed: 4 in favor – 6 against – 4 abstain.

Motion was made and properly seconded to adopt a two-tiered approach with $25 basic membership dues and $175 “enhanced benefit tier” that would include MSP.

Motion failed: 5 in favor - 4 against – 5 abstain

Motion was made and properly seconded to adopt option two (retained the current structure but with increased amounts – dues $50 and MSP $225) but without the senior citizen discount.

Motion failed: 6 in favor – 6 against – 2 abstain.

Motion was made and properly seconded to adopt option two with the senior citizen discount.

Motion failed: 6 in favor – 6 against – 2 abstain.

Motion was made and properly seconded to adopt option two but to reduce the dues to $25 (dues $25, MSP $225, retain senior citizen discount $20/130).

Motion failed: 6 in favor – 5 against – 3 abstain.

Motion was made and properly seconded to adopt the following structure: basic dues - $25, basic dues plus MSP $200; for senior citizens, basic dues $25, basic dues plus MSP $125.

Motion carried Unanimous

VI. Priority Committee Announcements

a. Zoning

1. Application Number V-05-233
1240 Reeder Circle
Applicant: Kelly Carter
Property Owner: Kelly Carter

Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the west side yard setback from 7 feet (required) to 2.5 feet to allow for a second story addition to an existing single family house.

Note: Per last month’s meeting notes:
Motion to approve variance per the site plan dated 6-20-2005 and the drawings dated 8-2-2005, pending letter of consent from all contiguous neighbors.
Motion Failed Zoning Committee: 4- In Favor, 4- Against, 0 - Abstaining.
Motion to Defer variance.
Motion Passed MLPA Board: 6- In Favor, 1- Against, 3 - Abstaining. (August meeting)

The applicant was not in attendance at the zoning committee meeting, so no action was taken.

Applicant has indicated he may go to BZA this coming Friday with the deferrals – we will report to the NPU and only the NPU vote goes to the BZA.

Motion to oppose the variance: 9 in favor – 2 against – 1 abstain

2. Application Number V-05-250
1121 McLynn
Applicant: Laura Rouse
Property Owner: Laura Rouse

Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the west side yard setback from 7 feet (required) to 2.2 feet for an addition to a single family house.

Motion to approve variance per the site plan dated 8-5-2005 and pending letter of consent from all contiguous neighbors.

Motion Passed in Committee: 12- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 - Abstaining.

Motion to approve by Board passed: 12 in favor, 0 – against, 1 abstained.

3. Application Number V-05-267
646 Sherwood Road
Applicant: Kevin Kastner
Property Owner: Kevin Kastner

Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the west side yard setback from 7 feet (required) to 6.8 feet for an addition to a single family house.

Motion to Defer for one month.

Motion Passed: 12- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 - Abstaining.

Motion to Defer for one month.

Motion passed: 12 in favor, 0 against, 0 abstaining

4. Application Number V-05-271
1160 Reeder Circle
Applicant: Veronica Logsdon
Property Owner: Veronica Logsdon

Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the west side yard setback from 7 feet
(required) to 3 feet to allow for a second story addition to an existing single family house.

Motion to Defer for one month.

Motion Passed in Committee: 12- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 - Abstaining.

Motion to Defer by Board.
Motion passed: 12 in favor, 0 against, 0 abstaining

5. Application Number V-05-276
910 Cumberland Road
Applicant: Eamonn O'Dowd
Property Owner: Eamonn O'Dowd

Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the setback to allow for a second story addition to an existing single family house.

Motion to Defer for one month.

Motion Passed in Committee: 12- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 - Abstaining.

Motion to Defer by Board.
Motion Passed: 12 in favor, 0 against, 0 abstaining

b. Food 101 at Highlands

Anticipate opening Nov. 7. Do not need additional parking.

Motion to approve properly made and seconded.
Motion approved 12 – 0 – 0

c. Budget approvals – Charlotte Gillis requested and received approval for two checks for (1) mowing and (2) clean up around monuments

d. The secretary also received a report from the Education Committee, attached as Exhibit 4 and from the NPU Representative, attached as Exhibit 5.

VII. New Business

a. VHMPA Presentation
Dayna: Some parents very concerned about increase in school population at MSE. There are now 830 children. And the increase is likely to continue. VH opposes splitting any part of VH out of MSE school district. A copy of the VH Voice is appended as Exhibit 6. They urge continued respect for neighborhood boundaries. A parent group has also been studying the issue.

Shira: you may think that it doesn’t affect Morningside but it does because one of the proposals would be pairing MSE and Hill and have split campuses (e.g. K – 2 and 3 – 5)

Sense of the board is that if the board is going to be asked to take action, then the board needs considerably more information about the issue.

b. October 14 NPU Tour
Department of Public Works – we need to send a representative.

Adjournment at @ 10:15 pm

August 8, 2005 MLPA Board of Directors Monthly Meeting draft Minutes

Call to order and welcome

Thanks for supporting MLPA and MSP!
Membership signup forms at www.mlpa.org (“Join Now”)

July 2005 meeting minutes approved by acclamation

Recognition of elected officials in attendance: None present

Candidates for Office
Mayoral Candidate Tiffany Brown
Green Space Commission, tourism, changing urban design to give the citizens the direction. Homelessness: help people change their lives www.brownforatlanta2005.com

Atlanta Botanical Garden
Mary Pat Matheson & Jeff Dickerson
ABG Master Plan
Parking facility would change the way people come into the Garden.

“Edible garden” to replace current parking area – Garden would face Piedmont Park, and current entrance would be replaced by a new Visitors Center on the Park side.

Reclaim woodland area and make more visitor-friendly. Currently eliminating invasive species. Replace with understory of native species. Canopy walk and classroom amid trees.

If proposed parking deck is not approved, then ABG will have to go back to the drawing board.

ABG approval path: neighborhoods, NPUs, Urban Design Council, City Council

Committee reports

Traffic
BeltLine – Refer to BeltLine Neighbor’s Coalition presentation.

MARTA – HATS meeting to be scheduled for August. Dianne Olansky appointed to Alternatives Analysis panel.

ARC Walkable Communities Workshop – ARC selected five locations outside the City of Atlanta for this round. Morningside will participate in Workshop held for Clifton Corridor September 14.

Neighborhood Traffic Calming - Dianne and Bill met with Transportation Department last week to gain support for traffic calming measures while we wait for ARC’s evaluation of Ansley park plan; asking for treatment of two spots along East Rock Springs, Highland/Johnson/Lenox intersection, North Morningside at Cumberland, and to be prepared for emerging problems on Lanier Boulevard and Pelham Road.

Traffic Committee Meeting – No Traffic Committee meeting this month.

Parks/Environmental Affairs
Motion to pay $476.10 for kudzu removal approved.

The old wooden play structure at Lenox Wildwood Park is crumbling and will be removed by the city. There is no city money to replace it. Several neighbors have begun discussing the possibility of rebuilding it, perhaps with the thought of gearing the new structure to upper elementary and middle school age children since there are already nearby playgrounds for younger children. If you, or your kids, have ideas or suggestions for what you would like to see there, please contact Keith Walker at 404-607-8299 or fosterwalker@comcast.net.

There is also a possibility of receiving a grant from KaBOOM! to put in a playscape in Lenox Wildwood. KaBOOM! is an organization committed to building playgrounds throughout the U.S. Although our neighborhood may be too affluent to be in the running, with your approval, I will submit an application. If we receive the grant, it would mean raising $10,000 by October and volunteering to assist with a community build in November. If we were to build a similar playscape on our own, it would cost $35,000. Motion to submit the above grant approved.

Education
August Headline: Summer Vacation Ends, School Begins, Drive Carefully

Atlanta Public Schools will begin the 2005 – 2006 school year on Monday, August 15. This Friday Morningside E.S. will host its Meet-and-Greet Open House from 9 – 11 a.m., and Inman Middle School’s Meet-and-Greet will run from 2 - 4 p.m. Grady will run its magnet program orientation this Thursday, Aug. 11, and a general orientation Friday morning.

Morningside E.S.
Morningside’s enrollment is continuing to grow as our intown community attracts more families with young children. Currently the anticipated enrollment for 2005/06 is:

Kindergarten: 154 students 9 classrooms and 10 teachers

1st Grade: 153 students 9 classrooms and teachers

2nd Grade: 135 students 6 classrooms and teachers

3rd Grade: 129 students 6 classrooms and teachers

4th Grade: 122 students 6 classrooms and teachers

5th Grade: 109 students 6 classrooms and teachers

MES will be collaborating with the UGA landscape architecture and design department in a Campus Pride Project. 5th year UGA students will be submitting designs in late fall for future implementation. The PTA and School Council will be installling 38 new computers as part of the initial stage of a technology initiative.

Inman Middle School
Kudos to Inman for meeting over 80% of APS Superintendent’s goals in 2004 – 2005 as well as making Annual Yearly Progress under No Child Left Behind guidelines.

Grady High School
The Grady attendance zone is expanding this year to include Coan Middle School, an additional feeder middle school. There will also be students transferring from Crim H.S. to Grady because of Crim’s change from a traditional to a non-traditional high school. Student enrollment figures have not been released yet.

CINS Presents An Evening with Langston Hughes
For the 2005 – 2006 school year CINS’ fundraising efforts will be spearheaded by a production of Remembering Langston Hughes starring John Lawhorn. He brings Langston Hughes, award-winning author, poet and playwright, to life through this insightful one-man performance.

The performance will take place on Saturday, September 17, at the Grady High School theatre. There are tax-deductible sponsorship opportunities for individuals or businesses at several levels of support. General admission tickets are $20. Proceeds will fund CINS’ Excellence in Education grants program for classroom teachers in CINS cluster schools. For more information contact Barbara Feinberg, bjfatlanta@comcast.net or 404-876-3839.

Communications

Progress Update
Further refined content and created a test environment with our second Association Edge demo site. This site expires August 16th, at which time we will need to pay for a real site.

Successfully linked from the website Join Now page to our PayPal account, so we have initial indications that online sign-up will not be a problem.

Next Steps:
Obtain website content management services through Association Edge website. Launch website by mid September.

Miscellaneous
What can board members do?

Check out the demo site at: http://www.4neighbors.com/mlpa2
Help make the website more ‘sticky’ by submitting content (and pictures if you have them) to: liz.campbell@comcast.net and philnewman@mindspring.com

We could post information about park clean-up volunteer dates, back to school information, security patrol forms, and general neighborhood goings-on! Take a look at the proposed left hand navigation below, and let us know if you have thoughts for content.

About Us

Letter from President

Officers/Committee Chairs (with contact information)

Join Now

MLPA Annual Membership

MLPA Tour of Homes

Membership Directory (This will be a password protected area of the site)

Events

Schools

Neighborhood Features

Walking Tour

Walking Tour information

Morningside Map

Neighborhood Merchants

Committees and Meeting Minutes

Monthly Meeting minutes

eBlasts

Security Patrol

Traffic

Parks

Zoning

Membership
Draft survey is available; asked Board to review. Ideas include a tree lottery, member information forums, architectural/restructuring design assistance. Survey is intentionally brief.

Proposed logo will be ready for review at September meeting.

Special Events
The neighborhood is now seeking coordinators for all special events since the resignation of this year’s chairpersons. Daniel Cherrix and Chip Bowden thanked for their years of service to MLPA.

North MLPA/Sidewalks
Inquiries but no pending requests; correspondence with equivalent in Virginia Highland for ideas on managing sidewalk program. Will probably gear up in fall.

South MLPA
450 families representing almost 800 children in VHMPA. Currently addressing possible public school re-zoning.

NPU-F Representative
Some highlights from the July 18, 2005 NPU-F meeting

1. Tree Ordinance:

There’s over $1 million dollars available to be allocated for use to remove hazardous trees. A rewrite of the COA tree ordinance is taking place. A motion was passed to request Anne Fauver to have Jack White nominated to be the appointed NPU-F representative for the proceedings.

2. Residential Parking Program:

A motion was passed to approve amending the Residential Parking Program and the residential parking permit component of the ordinance for maintaining the cost of parking permit at $12 for every 2 years.

3. Zoning:

V-05-105: 500-560 Amsterdam Avenue (BZA deferred case to the NPU for a vote)

A motion was passed to deny Applicant, Halpern Enterprises, Inc., from seeking a special exception from zoning regulations to reduce the total required parking from 727 spaces (requirement existing nonconforming characteristic) to 288 spaces (existing on site) for the purpose of converting 10,050 sq. ft. or retail to restaurant.

4. New Ordinance:

A motion was passed to approve an Ordinance by Council Member Ivory Lee Young, Jr. to amend various sections of the Zoning Code of the City of Atlanta, for the purpose of clarifying and/or defining certain terms related to supportive housing; to provide how applications for such uses are to be processed; defining the term community center and removing certain redundant terms related to such use; redefining the conditions under which Dormitories, Sorority Houses and Fraternity Houses are permitted; Deleting Rooming Houses and Boarding Houses as permitted uses in certain districts; and for other purposes.

5. Special Administrative Permit

SAP-05-10: 1370 North Highland Avenue

A motion was passed to deny Applicant, Harry R. Stamper, Agent for Southeast Towers, LLC, to seek a special administrative permit to increase the height of the an existing MetroPCS communication tower to 100’.

A Presentation of the highlights of the month’s activities of the Beltline Neighbors Coalition was made by James Strack, Bill Ellis, and Dianne Olansky. The highlights were as follows:

A. The June 21 Recap Meeting ADA and EDAW plans for Ansley Mall were presented and described.

B. The recent activities of the Beltline Neighbors Coalition were reviewed.

C. The first Draft of the BNC Land Use Plan was presented.

D. The results of the August 7, 2005 local neighborhoods Land Use review meeting was reported.

E. The goals and objectives of the BNC were reviewed and the general concept of the BNC goals and objectives were approved by the MLPA Board.

Finance
No report this month.

Treasurer’s report
Budget adjusted last month; MLPA moving right along with new budget.

Security Patrol/Public Safety

CRIMES REPORTED FOR JULY 2005

(4) LARCENY FROM VEHICLE

LAR-ARTICLES FROM VE 07/26/05 1189 EAST ROCK SPRINGS RD.
LAR-ARTICLES FROM VE 07/26/05 875 COURTENAY DR
LAR-ARTICLES FROM VE 07/16/05 1330 LANIER BLVD.
LAR-ARTICLES FROM VE 07/10/05 1228 REEDER CIR.

(2) BURGULARY

ATTEMPT BURG-FORCED 07/21/05 1870 WINDEMERE DR.
BURG-NO FORCD ENTRY- 07/16/05 1247 PASADENA AVE.

(2) AUTO THEFT

THEFT OF OTHER VEHIC 07/25/05 629 HILL PINE DR.
AUTO THEFT 7/16/05 998WILDWOOD RD.

(0) LARCENY

(0) VIOLENT CRIME

CONGRATULATIONS MORNINGSIDE LENOX PARK ASSOCIATION

Our first National Night Out Against crime was a super success.

We had over 50 marchers. As we walked through the neighborhood we encountered several residents who were told of our fabulous Morningside Security Patrol. So, expect new members soon. We want to thank Target, Publix and Briarcliff Animal Clinic for their support and contributions. We extend a special thank you to our Atlanta Police Department and their leadership. Detective Rick Vaszuez, did an excellent job in scoping out the route and providing the “Water Wagon” for our joyous walker neighbors.

The whole City of Atlanta is talking about us. Wait until next year.

Get your vacation request cards to the Morningside Security Patrol before your next trip (but not by mail; drop them off in the lockbox at the Church parking lot).

Beware of your surroundings and be sure to report suspicious activity to MSP and APD.

Zoning

Application Number V-05-194
1216 N. Highland
Applicant: Benjamin Larkin
Property Owner: Benjamin Larkin

Applicant seeks a special exception for a 5 ft. privacy fence (wall) where only a 4 ft. fence is allowed.

Motion to approve the special exception pending letters of support from neighbors across the street.

Note: Fences have been installed on property.

Zoning committee motion passed: 3- In Favor, 1- Against, 2 - Abstaining.

MLPA motion to approve the special exception 6-3-2

Application Number V-05-230
1047 High Point Drive
Applicant: Shawn DeFord
Property Owner: Shawn DeFord

Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the west side yard setback from 7 feet (required) to 2.6 feet to allow for a second story addition to an existing single family house.

Motion to approve variance per the site plan dated 7-15-2005 and pending letter of consent from neighbor at 1431 High Point Place.

Zoning Committee motion Passed: 7- In Favor, 0- Against, 1 - Abstaining.

MLPA motion to approve variance per the site plan dated 7-15-2005 (letter of consent received) Passed 11– 0- 0

Application Number V-05-233
1240 Reeder Circle
Applicant: Kelly Carter
Property Owner: Kelly Carter

Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the west side yard setback from 7 feet (required) to 2.5 feet to allow for a second story addition to an existing single family house.

Zoning Committee motion to approve variance per the site plan dated 6-20-2005 and the drawings dated 8-2-2005, pending letter of consent from all contiguous neighbors. Failed: 4- In Favor, 4- Against, 0 - Abstaining.

Note: Only motion that was presented.

MLPA motion to defer passed 6-1-3

Application Number V-05-234
1092 McLynn
Applicant: David Fowler
Property Owner: Robert O'Gara

Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the east side yard setback from 7 feet (required) to 3.6 feet to allow for a screen porch addition to a single family house.

Motion to approve variance per the site plan dated 7-20-2005 and pending letter of consent from all contiguous neighbors.

Zoning Committee motion passed : 8- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 - Abstaining.

MLPA motion to approve per the site plan dated 7-20-2005 and pending letter of consent from all contiguous neighbors passed 7-1-3

Corner Wine and Art, LLC
Shop at Highland Walk in old Aliya art gallery space. Status is “Wine Specialty Shop.” Limits size and amount of wine sold. No consumption. No parking intensity change.

Motion to approve passed 10-0-0.

President raised the idea of the way Ansley Park handles their Zoning requests. Zoning committee hears the request and that recommendation goes directly to the NPU, bypassing their Board. Just food for thought.

No Old or New Business

The meeting was adjourned at 9:57 EDT.

Respectfully submitted,
William B. Ellis

July 11, 2005 MLPA Board of Directors Monthly Meeting draft Minutes

Board Members in Attendance: President-Alan Perry, President elect, Lee Nunn, Secretary(Acting) -Sarah Nunn, Membership - Alex Bach, Zoning-Tad Christian, Education-Barbara Feinberg, Traffic-Bill Ellis, NPU Rep-James Strack, At Large-South-Shira Kash, Security Patrol/Public Safety - William Lindsey, Charlotte Gillis, Karen Schafer - Parks/Environmental Affairs, Liz Sommerfeld - Communications

Zone 6 Inspector Kinsler is helping to coordinate Morningside’s first National Night Out on August 2.* details follow Major Propes announced Morningside is officially part of Zone 6 (601) as of July 1st. Her contact info is epropes@atlantapd.org or 404-371-5002

Approval of minutes June 2005 meeting Motion approved by unanimous voice vote

Barbara Bagerman - President of Rock Creek Watershed Alliance/Herbert Taylor Park
A grant from the Blank Foundation for $20,000 for invasive species removal and trail maintenance will be matched by city. The Taylor family will match the city and Blank Foundation contributions with a $40,000 donation.

Future plans include an entrance at Beech Valley and Pasendena. The Taylor family would like to see a wooden pedestrian only bridge and a small kiosk with map and environmental information. Volunteers are needed for a creek clean-up on October 1.

MLPA Board Needs
--Secretary; Committee chairs will rotate through position; Bill Ellis volunteered to serve in August.

Committee reports

Treasurer’s report - Christine Hung
Executive committee met and with the help of the committee chairs slashed $20,000 from 2005 budget due to postponement of Tour of Homes until next year. We are now running a $22,039 deficit budget. Next year there will be a two tier budget-one for operating expenses and one for discretionary expenditures that will be funded by special events. A motion to approve revised budget with authority to put the $1500 back in budget for Morningside Presbyterian Church pending clarification of MLPA commitment. Motion passed by unanimous voice vote.

City Councilmember- Anne Fauver
Red light cameras are up in 4 locations based on traffic accidents Panhandling legislation applies only to downtown tourist area, likely to pass at next council meeting Council recess 1st and 2nd week in August NPU F meeting, July 12th at 6 pm at Park Tavern. Wayne Mason or his representatives will be there. Filling the city arborist positions and posting of tree ordinance review are in process.

Security Patrol/Public Safety - William Lindsey

CRIMES REPORTED FOR JUNE 2005
Submitted by Detective R.Vazquez
(3) Larceny From Vehicle
• Lar-Articles from Vehicle          1779 Johnson Road
6/27/05
• Lar-Articles from Vehicle          1260 Zimmer Road
6/13/05
• Lar-Articles from Vehicle          810 San Antonio
Drive 6/13/05

(3) Burglary
• Burglary-Forced Entry 1066 Amsterdam Ave. 6/27/05
• Burglary-Forced Entry 1780 N. Rock Springs Rd.
6/22/05
• Burglary-Forced Entry 1302 Lanier Blvd. 6/05/05

(2) Auto Theft
• Auto Theft 1819 Windmere Drive 6/16/05
• Auto Theft 790 San Antonio Drive 6/13/05

(2) Larceny
• Larceny-parts from vehicle 824
Amsterdam Ave. 6/15/05
• Larceny-OTHR-FREE-TEXT 1824 Homestead Ave. 6/27/05

(1) Violent Crime
• Robbery-Street-Knife 816 Sherwood Rd. 6/06/05
•

MLPA’s 'Annual National Night Out" Tuesday, August 2, 2005 from 7:30 – 9:00 p.m.
Take a walk through Morningside Lenox Park with the Atlanta Police Department. That’s right, a police escort through two miles of Morningside Lenox Park. The walk starts in the parking lot of Morningside Presbyterian Church and gathers speed as neighbors join us in supporting our local heroes as we pass their homes. Neighbors are encouraged to turn on their porch lights. Let Morningside’s light shine to show our dedication to keeping Atlanta a safe and secure place to live and work. Volunteers are needed. Contact Williamclindsey@yahoo.com

Crime Tip of the Month: Be sure to have bushes and hedges trimmed away from entrance ways. Keep drive ways and entrances well lit at night to ward off potential burglars

Parks/Environmental Affairs - Karen Schaefer
A request for approval of reimbursement for $120 paid to Nick Devingo for mowing three traffic islands (Wilson Monument, Piedmont and Pelham, Corner of Wildwood Gardens near traffic circle.) Motion made to approve reimbursement passed by unanimous voice vote.

Dianne Olansky forwarded an e-mail which she received from Mint Dearing notifying her that the playground equipment will be removed from Lenox Wildwood Park during the week of July 11 because it is "potentially dangerous." No one knows Mint Dearing or the details about the playground being dangerous.

Education - Barbara Feinberg
Morningside E.S. Redistricting Talk Robin Hutchinson, a volunteer on the Education and Schools Committee of the Virginia Highland Morningside Parents Association, contacted me a few weeks ago to ask if MPLA would be drafting a position paper on APS’ redrawing Morningside’s attendance zone. She indicated that the VHMPA and VHCA were both likely to draft a position paper underscoring the
geographic integrity of Morningside with Virginia Highland. It would clearly state that VHMPA and VHCA were strongly opposed to any rezoning that would reassign any children in these two neighborhoods to other elementary schools.

I responded that MLPA has not considered drafting a statement about rezoning Morningside’s attendance zone, nor did I have a clue what it should possibly say. Regarding the issue of redistricting the Morningside attendance zone, there presently are no plans to change the MES attendance zone. APS will be monitoring attendance at Morningside and our entire in town neighborhood schools to determine if there is a need to make any changes. Presently there is no way to predict what changes may be proposed.

I bring up the topic to keep MLPA members informed about what other nearby neighborhood groups are discussing, especially in light of questions about how MLPA may weigh in on the subject. No action taken at this time.

CINS Presents An Evening with Langston Hughes For the 2005 – 2006 school year CINS’ fundraising
efforts will be spearheaded by a production of Remembering Langston Hughes starring John Lawhorn. John Lawhorn’s career has included performing as a concert pianist, working in school systems throughout metro Atlanta as a music educator, and currently acting in stage, film and television. He wrote Remembering Langston Hughes to bring the award-winning author, poet and playwright to life through this insightful one-man performance. The performance will take place on Saturday, September 17, at the Grady High School theatre. There are tax-deductible sponsorship opportunities for individuals or businesses at several levels of support.

For more information contact Barbara Feinberg, bjfatlanta@comcast.net or 404-876-3839. Money goes to excellence in education program in the classroom.

Traffic - Bill Ellis
MORNINGSIDE-LENOX PARK TRAFFIC COMMITTEE REPORT
North Rock Springs Speed Tables - Gathering last of signatures for parking spaces and speed tables.

Beltline – Northeast developer’s legal representatives are meeting with NPU-F at Park Tavern tomorrow from 6 to 8 PM. Bill reiterates that the transportation aspect of this project is crucial to every other aspect. Beltline Neighbors’ Coalition has formed committees, is defining objectives and tasks.

Traffic / Transportation Committee will be watching MARTA Alternative Transportation Study, Monroe Drive Traffic Study, and Beltline Transportation Panel.

MARTA– HATS meeting to be scheduled for August.

ARC Walkable Communities Workshop - MLPA applied for third round of these workshops (we weren’t selected for the 1st one in 2003). If we’re selected, one-day workshop in September would be followed by recommendations to make neighborhood more walkable. Dianne and Bill meeting with
Transportation Department this week to gain support.

Traffic Committee Meeting - this month’s Traffic Committee meeting will be combined with tomorrow night’s Beltline meeting at Park Tavern. If there is a need for a meeting beyond the Beltline developer’s presentation, it will take place from 8 PM to 9 PM at the Tavern.

Believe 45 route will be changed this month.

North MLPA/Sidewalks - Alan Perry for Kevin Lyman
A motion to approve, upon receipt of documentation, $1685 reimbursement to contractor for sidewalk repair for Mr. Calk. Commitment for work was made prior to MLPA imposing a $500 cap on sidewalk reimbursements in December 2004. Motion approved by unanimous voice vote.

City has a moratorium on sidewalk repairs. City is revising pricing. City will have a new approved list of private contractors.

South MLPA - Shira Kash
No report

NPU Representative - James Strack
Some of the highlights from the NPU-F meeting on June 20, 2005 included the following:

1. DWM - Water main replacement

George Barnes - Mr. Barnes presented the Water Main replacement for the Va Highlands. This project will take
approximately 2 years. The streets that will be part of the project will be patched and then completely repaired, the streets will be milled and then re-asphalted. Pipe bursting techniques will be used for some of the sewer rehab work.
The sewer replacement work will be done concurrently with the rest the sewer replacement work.

2. Council member Anne Fauver is working to stop the twin towers from being built on the area next to Piedmont Park.

3. Va Highlands Civic Association - listed on the National Historic Registry for historic places for the entire neighborhood.

4. Combined NPU E & F Priorities for NE Corridor Beltline Motion to adopt: Favor: 24, Opposed: 0 Abstain: 4

5. Alcohol License Application:
Jeffrey M. Notrica, Agent
Convention Center w/beer, wine & liquor consumed on premises, ustomer dancing & live entertainment Hilan Theater 800 N. Highland Ave. Suite 104 New Business

A motion to deny based on the facts presented by the Virginia Highland Civic Association and Atkins Park Neighborhood vote.
NPU-F vote: NPU-F Voting members: In favor: 62, Opposed: 13, Abstain: 5

7. Zoning Matters:
V-05-140 783 Yorkshire Road N.E. Applicant, Jennifer James, seeks a special exception from zoning regulations to allow for the expansion of a legal non-conforming duplex for an addition to the kitchen and patio, where otherwise it is prohibited. Motion to approve:

NPU-F vote: Voice vote was unanimous for approval. 1 abstention.

V-05-155 1283 Lanier Blvd. Applicant, Scott Newton, seeks a variance from zoning regulations to reduce the north side yard setback from 7’ (required) to 1.8’ to allow for a second story addition to an existing detached garage of a single-family house. Variance conditions: Max height: 22.3” maximum height 60 Amp electrical, hose bib plumbing 5-11-2005, with letter from property owner from 1287 Lanier Blvd . Motion to approve:

NPU-F Recommendation: (two counts)
In favor: 12 Opposed: 12 Abstain: 2
In favor: 12 Opposed: 11 Abstain: 2

Variance conditions with an amendment with an INTERNAL staircase rather than external staircase depicted in the plans:

Max height: 22.3” maximum height 60 Amp electrical, hose bib plumbing 5-11-2005, with letter from property owner from 1287 Lanier Blvd. The side of the garage closest to the fence, (a type of construction that is regulated by the Building code councils). Friendly amendment of additional condition to have an internal staircase for the detached structure.

Motion to approve:
In favor: 13 Opposed: 9 Abstain: 3

SAP-05-06:1370 North Highland Ave (for review and comments) (case deferred by the NPU)
Applicant, Sarran Marshall (TLC Communications) for Cingular Wireless, seeks a special administrative permit for the installation of an alternative design wireless telecommunication facility. Capacity to have 3 carriers.
- Larry Lukas - 19 written responses by email, phone or fax. 15 approvals, 2 people that were in opposition, 2 people that abstained. There were 43 people that did not respond.
- Peggy Barlett. 1346 Avalon Pl. She’s in opposition to this tower due to health concerns and radiation. Monetary reasons also have been stated by her on this issue.
- Carolyn Hasbern , 1394 Lanier Pl. Asthetics reasons were mentioned.
- Robert Alexander, 1398 Lanier Pl. Asthetics reasons, health safety reasons.
- Daniel Faith, 1400 Lanier Pl. Aesthetic reasons, a precedent for more towers.
- Maggy Vereno, 1396 Lanier Pl. Aesthetic reasons, a health concern.

Motion to deny:
Approval: 18 Opposing: 1 Abstain: 4

7. Other issues facing NPU-F:

a. Beltline Hearings and Opportunities For Community Comments:
Atlanta Development Authority - Beltline Transit Panel
July 25 2:00p.m. to 5:00p.m. Old Council Chambers Neighborhood Beltline Community Meeting
The last one was on June 29 at 6:00p.m. at Inman Middle
School Media Center.
Stay tuned.
Wayne Mason Development Presentation to NPU's
July 12 6:00p.m. to 8:00p.m.    Park Tavern     NPU F
July 13 6:00p.m. to 8:00p.m.    Trolley Barn     NPU M
& N
July 19 6:00p.m. to 8:00p.m.    Park Tavern     Makeup
meetings - NPU E, F, M, N

b. ADA has now posted the presentation they made at the Beltline Recap
meeting at the following links:
http://www.atlantada.com/media/NortheastBeltlineRecapPart1_000.pdf

http://www.atlantada.com/media/NortheastBeltlineRecapPart2_000.pdf

Atlanta Development Authority Beltline Transit Panel
Public Hearing - June 7, 2005 - 2:00 PM

Finance - no report

Communications - Liz Sommerfeld
Website Hosting: The committee researched web hosting providers, and would like to recommend Association Edge (www.associationedge.com). The cost is $29.95 per month, and a basic list of features and benefits is listed below. The vendor is Atlanta based and we have been pleased with the high level of technical phone support we received.

Features/Benefits:

Online transactions
Password protected content
Coordinated emails and site banner for a more ‘branded’ look and feel
Calendar feature that allows listing of events by date
Custom graphics accepted
Rotating news flash

Website Redesign
Upon approval of Association Edge as our web hosting provider, we would like to coordinate the migration effort with a general site redesign to make mlpa.org more user friendly. We currently have a demo site located at http://associationedge.com/mlpa/ We have planned for a left hand navigation tab called Committees and Meeting Minutes. Here, we will have sub-headings for each committee that would like to provide content. We think it would be great to have a page for Traffic, Security, Zoning (maybe we could post the current rules and the requirements for application etc.), and Parks. Committee chairpersons would be responsible for providing the content to his/her site area.

Online Membership
Online membership signup/renewal is one of the most important goals for the Communications Committee. We researched several methods for online sign-up and are recommending the Pay Pal method, which allows neighbors to sign up with any major credit card (Visa, MC, Amex, Discover).
The process would be similar to a first-time purchase on Amazon (user would provide name, billing address, credit card number etc.). Pay Pal’s fees include 2.9% of the transaction amount plus $0.30 on each transaction. For a $20 basic membership fee, this would cost us $0.88. We will work with the Membership and Finance Committees on a plan to recoup/absorb these fees.

Motion to approve $29.95 monthly expense for Pay Pal passed by unanimous voice vote.

Membership - Alex Bach
Two neighborhood volunteers from Nimble Media will be redesigning the MLPA logo.
A five question survey circulated online via Survey Monkey will be sent to the neighborhood to determine what features and benefits they would like to see as part of MLPA membership. Several neighborhood merchants have expressed interest in partnering with MLPA. Next membership meeting 7/12 at 7:30 at Alex’s house.

Zoning - Tad Christian

Application Number V-05-182
641 East Morningside Drive
Applicant: Gary Iskol
Property Owner: Gary Iskol
Applicant seeks a special exception to allow for active recreation (swimming pool) adjacent to a public street, where otherwise it is prohibited. Motion to approve the special exception per site plan date stamped 6-7-2005 and per the pool plan dated 7-5-2005. Zoning Committee Motion Passed: 7- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 - Abstaining. Tree impact - only removing diseased trees and putting in more trees than removing. Impervious surface is 38%. MLPA Board motion to approve the special exception per
site plan date stamped 6-7-2005 and per the pool plan dated 7-5-2005. 9-In Favor,1-Against,1-Abstaining

Application Number SAP-05-06 (Special Administrative Permit)
1370 North Highland
Applicant: Harry Stampler Agent for Southeast Towers, LLC
Property Owner: MetroPCS Georgia, Inc.
Applicant seeks a Special Administrative Permit to allow for a proposed 50-foot extension of an existing 50-foot stealth light pole telecommunications structure for a total requested height of 100 feet. The existing compound will be expanded by moving the existing retaining wall within the current lease area and setbacks.

Note: I still do not have any paperwork from the city for this application. Zoning Committee motion to deny until the board is shown reasons to have more than one communications tower at this site.

A 120’ “pine tree” cell tower was approved by city (despite NPU opposition) for the same site last month.

Zoning Committee motion to deny passed: 5- In Favor, 3- Against, 1 - Abstaining.

MLPA Board motion to approve special administrative permit failed: 2-In Favor, 8-Against, 1-Abstaining. MLPA Board motion to deny special administrative permit approved: 9-In Favor, 1-Against, 1-Abstaining.

Special Events - Alan Perry for Daniel Cherrix
Tour of homes postponed until 2006.

Old Business

New Business
Mary Norwood’s Infill Task Force meeting Thursday, 7/14 at Manual’s Tavern at 6pm.

Meeting adjourned.

June 13, 2005 MLPA Board of Directors Monthly Meeting draft Minutes

Board members in attendance:
President - Alan Perry
Secretary(Acting) - Sarah Nunn
Parliamentarian - Mae Reich
Membership - Alex Bach, Dayna Holbel
Zoning - Tad Christian & Trav Carter
Education - Barbara Feinberg
Traffic - Bill Ellis
NPU Rep - James Strack
At Large - South - Shira Kash
At Large-North- Kevin Lyman
Security Patrol/Public Safety - William Lindsey

Call to order and welcome
Thanks for supporting MLPA and MSP!
Membership signup forms at www.mlpa.org ("Join Now")

Motion to approve May 2005 Board minutes passed by voice vote .

Recognition of elected officials in attendance:
Anne Fauver: Wednesday city council turns in budget priorities email Anne for input.

MLPA Board Needs
--Secretary
--Board Recruiting

Committee reports

Security Patrol/Public Safety - William Lindsey

CRIMES REPORTED FOR MAY 2005

.        Larceny from vehicles   10
.        Other larceny                  06
.        Burglary                         06               (arrest made 05/13/05)
.        Auto theft                       02
.        Aggravated assault         01
.        Commercial burglar       01
.        Residential burglary       01
.        Robbery                          01

Crime to Get a Going Away Party in Morningside Lenox Park "Annual National Night Out"

What: Morningside Lenox Park residents and businesses to gather to
promote solidarity and to show support for our local police and safety
agencies.
When: Tuesday, August 2, 2005 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Morningside Presbyterian Church
Who: You, the National Association of Town Watch (NATW) and The Community Services Unit of the Atlanta Police Department.

Pick up participation forms on the back table and speak to William for more information. Please return forms to William by July 7, 2005.

The 2005/2006 Public Safety/Security Patrol Committee is in need of volunteers. Please contact William C. Lindsey at Williamclindsey@yahoo.com for meeting dates and times.

Crime Tip of the Month:
You've finally found that coveted parking space for your car, did you remember to:

Remove all valuables from view?
Check your vehicle tag when you return?
Never put packages in your car/truck and continue to shop?
Remove all plug in cords and electronic devices, phones, etc. hat can be seen from windows.

Parks/Environmental Affairs - no report

Education - Barbara Feinberg
School's out!

Special Events - no report

Traffic - Bill Ellis

Police Enforcement - Next "Traffic Enforcement Task Force" meeting is tomorrow, June 14, with Deputy Chief Dunovant and the Zone commanders. This meeting will include other neighborhood representatives. MLPA's move to Zone 6 will occur some time before the next ice age. 20 speeding tickets on Monroe today; remember that the speed limit is now 30. North Rock Springs Speed Tables - Signatures for parking spaces are still being gathered. The departments that place the tables and the parking spaces have committed to coordinating their efforts.

MARTA - Board voted this week not to increase regular fares from $1.75 to $2.00.

Monroe Drive - Task Force met with Traffic and Transportation last week and received a commitment for a comprehensive traffic study of Monroe Drive and the surrounding streets.

City Business - Transportation Deputy Commissioner David Ferguson met with Anne Fauver and the District 6 neighborhood traffic chairpersons on June 2. Effective introduction to Commissioner Ferguson. There is still a need for more communication of goals that the City and the neighborhoods have in common. The departmental processes still need significant improvement.

Beltline - Follow-up session will be at Inman Middle School Tuesday, June 21 at 6:30 PM. Also, the northeast developer's legal representatives are meeting with NPU-F at Park Tavern Tuesday, July 12 from 6 to 8 PM. Bill reiterates that the transportation aspect of this project is crucial to every other aspect.

North MLPA - Kevin Lyman
2 requests for sidewalks reimbursements. Kevin is working on presentation to get people to take advantage of
sidewalk program.

South MLPA - Shira Kash: no report

NPU-F Representative - James Strack
NPU adamant that service provider planning to erect cell tower off Highland Avenue in Morningside get input from neighbors and property owners in surrounding area. Lenox Road fence variance (approved by MLPA at May meeting) failed at NPU F.

Communications - Liz Campbell
Newly formed committee will be working on redesigning the website and setting up online transactions for membership and tour of homes.

Finance - Barry Berlin
A survey of surrounding neighborhood association dues structure is complete and will be used by finance and membership to discuss restructuring MLPA dues.

Membership - Dayna Holbel
The membership committee met May 31st to plan for the following year, several goals were outlined as follows:

Creating logo and brand for our neighborhood
Revamping the current fee structure
Creating Special members only events
Creating a membership card and working with local businesses to provide discounts to members
Welcome booklet or folder to reach new neighbors

We determined that the most important steps were the following:

Gather information about other local civic associations to determine fee structures and services provided
Create an email survey to determine what services are important to our members and what members are willing to pay

Next Meeting
Our next meeting will be held at the home of Sarah and Lee Nunn, June 16th, 599 E Morningside 7:30 PM

An eblast will be sent to solicit neighborhood volunteer redesign logo.

Motion to approve spending (not to exceed $2300) to contract for logo design approved by voice vote, if there is no volunteer.

Treasurer - no verbal report, May written reports handed out

Zoning - Tad Christian

Application Number V-05-45 690 Amsterdam Ave, Applicant: Eric M. Smith, Property Owner: Eric M. Smith.
Applicant seeks a special exception to allow for a room addition to an existing non-conforming detached triplex, where otherwise it is prohibited.

Note: application has been previously deferred to allow applicant more time to work with the city to clarify this variance. Motion to approve the special exception pending letters of consent from all adjacent property owners. Motion Passed in Committee: 8- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 - Abstaining. Board motion to approve with same conditions imposed by the Zoning Committee Motion Passed: 9-In Favor, 0-Against, 2-Abstaining

Application Number V-05-120, 1232 Pasadena Ave., Applicant: Serge Watson, Property Owner: Donella Bateman, Janet Reynolds.
Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the east side yard setback from 7 feet (required) to 2.5 feet to allow for an addition to a single family residence. Motion to approve variance per site plan II dated 4-11-2005. Motion Passed in Committee: 9- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 - Abstaining. Board motion to approve passed with same conditions as imposed by Zoning Committee: 11-In Favor, 0-Against, 0-Abstaining.

Application Number V-05-140, 783 Yorkshire Road, Applicant: Jennifer James, Property Owner: Jennifer & Will James.

Applicant seeks a special exception to allow for the expansion of a legal non-conforming duplex for an addition to the kitchen and a patio addition, where otherwise it is prohibited. Motion to approve the special exception per the new site plan dated 5-4-2005 and the drawings dated 5-2-2005 Motion Passed in Committee: 8- In Favor, 1- Against, 0 - Abstaining. Board motion to approve with same conditions as imposed by Zoning Committee: Passed: 13-In Favor,0-Against,0-Abstaining

Application Number V-05-155, 1283 Lanier Blvd., Applicant: Scott Newton Property Owner: Ralph Jones
Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the north side yard setback from 7 feet (required) to 1.8 feet to allow for a second story addition to an existing detached garage of a single family residence. Motion to approve variance with the following conditions; 22.3 ft. maximum height to the top of the ridge, 60 amp electrical service, hose bib plumbing and per the plans dated 5-11-2005. Along with letters of consent from the adjacent property owners. Motion Passed in Committee: 7- In Favor, 1- Against, 1 - Abstaining. Board motion to approve with same conditions as imposed by Zoning Committee passed: 10-In Favor, 1-Against, 2-Abstaining

Application Number V-05-165, 886 Cumberland Road, Applicant: Russell Grubenhoff, Property Owner: Russell Grubenhoff.
Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the west side yard setback from 7 feet(required) to 3 feet to allow for construction of a single family residence. Motion to approve variance per the plans dated 3-24-2005 pending letters of consent from all adjacent property owners. Motion Passed in Committee: 9- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 - Abstaining. Board motion to approve with same conditions as imposed by Zoning Committee passed: 11-In Favor, 0-Against, 2-Abstaining.

New Business

Public is invited to launching of tunnel boring machine for the CSO project 6/16 1:30 at Marietta Street.

At the next meeting, Mae Reich will bring a proposed change to the policy sheet to allow the past president to have voting position on MLPA Board.

Beltline Project/NPU Priorities/Meetings - Update NPU-F Rep James Strack: 213+ attended 6/12 Beltline project overview meeting.

Mid December is deadline for completed design to be presented for approval to city council to be eligible for TAD tax allocation. There will be a follow up/wrap-up meeting on 6/21 at Inman 6:30pm-8:30pm.

Anne Fauver - Neighborhood needs to decide where we want green space where we are willing to have development. There are five parcels in this area. Parcel 2 (behind Park Tavern/across from Grady High School) is the site that Gwinnett developer Wayne Mason is proposing to develop two 38-39 storied towers. This development will require land use change, and zoning variances that will probably come before the city Zoning Review Board either the 8th or 15th of September. Best way to lobby zoning is to write letters (not email) to the ZRB. Anne will
give Alan names and addresses of Zoning Review Board and meeting dates. Someone from the neighborhood should attend and speak up at all meetings.

Board motion to pass a resolution approving NPU-F & E document "Priorities for NE Corridor Beltline Development" dated 6/10/05. Motion passed: 10-In Favor, 0-Against, 2-Abstaining.

Thanks given to volunteers, Haygood Memorial Church, and Home Depot from the Parks/Environmental Affairs Committee for the late May clean-up of Sunken Garden Park.

Meeting Adjourned at 9:30.

REMINDER: Security Patrol members submitting their requests for vacation checks of their homes in their absence MUST drop their cards off at the lockbox in the parking lot at Morningside Presbyterian Church or mail them 2-3 weeks in advance of the vacation to be assured of coverage.

May 9, 2005 MLPA Board of Directors Monthly Meeting draft Minutes

Board members in attendance:
President-Alan Perry, President - Elect-Lee Nunn, Treasurer - Christine Hung, Secretary (Acting) –Sarah Nunn, Parliamentarian - Mae Reich, Membership - & Alex Bach, Zoning - Tad Christian & Trav Carter, Education - Barbara Feinberg, Traffic - Bill Ellis, Parks & Environmental Affairs - Charlotte Gillis, Karen Schaefer, NPU Rep - James Strack, At Large-South - Shira Kash, At Large - North, Kevin Lyman, Security Patrol/Public Safety - William Lindsey

Tony Gomez – Public Information Manager 404-330-6563 Watershed Management Deep Tunnel Project near DutchValley Rd.
Expect heavier truck traffic. City will limit truck route to minimize impact on neighbors. Blasting starts in July and will last until December. There will be two shifts working from 6am-10pm. Call Tony with any further questions about project.

Approval of minutes from April board meeting and annual meeting – passed unanimously.

Anne Fauver – Replacement of water mains will begin soon. Underground video of water and sewer lines for the neighborhood is complete.

MLPA is still looking for a secretary. The task of taking minutes may begin to rotate among committee chairs.

Developments are ongoing on the Communications Committee front, in large part due to efforts of facilitator Bill Ellis. We hope to have something to report soon.

MLPA is also seeking a voting Board member to serve in a new position: “Board Recruitment.” This would be someone looking for new folks to serve on the Board on a regular basis, kind of like a year-round Nominating Committee.

William Lindsey approved unanimously as chair of Public Safety Committee (Morningside Security Patrol).

Crime report from past president (and interim Public Safety Chair) - Norman McKay.
Beat 210 crime stats reviewed. Listing handed out. Norman urges those interested to join William's team on Public Safety/MSP committee. A large working group needed, as with many of MLPA Board committees. Task of receiving and reviewing weekly APD crime listing just one of many "bite sized" tasks that would be a great help to William and this committee."

Parks & Environmental Affairs - Charlotte Gillis, Karen Schaefer
Request approval of a proposal from We Cut Grass, Inc. for routine cutting of the grass in the traffic island between Johnson Rd and Lenox Rd. The price is $35 every other week during growing season and includes mowing, string trimming around poles, and blowing along curb. Morningside Garden Club maintains the planting in the garden. Approved unanimously.

Sunken Garden Park clean-up day scheduled for May 24 from 9 AM to noon. Hands-On Atlanta and volunteers from Home Depot will paint benches, replace mulch and make minor repairs. Home Depot is providing $2000 worth of materials. We hope neighborhood volunteers will join in. Haygood Memorial Church has offered use of their restroom facilities that day for the volunteers.

Also, in regards to Sunken Garden Park, both the team leader from Hands-On Atlanta and Charlotte Gillis has asked the city to do something about the drainage problem around the water fountain.

Charlottes Gillis will participate in a citizen focus group about development of the first section of the proposed Beltline Project.

Education - Barbara Feinberg
School’s Almost Out! Watch Out for Kids When You Drive!

Atlanta Public Schools will be out for summer vacation on May 20. The 2005 – 2006 school years will begin on August 15.

CINS - Due to the closing of Crim H.S. and the subsequent redistricting of many of its students to Grady, CINS will be enlarging its circle of cluster schools that feed into Grady. Toomer and Whitefoord Elementary Schools and Coan Middle School, serving east Atlanta, are joining CINS.

Morningside May 13, Friday – Residence Address Confirmation Packets Due

For students to be placed in classes for the next school year, residence confirmation packets must be turned in. These packets, sent home in the mail, are required for each of child who attends Morningside.

May 13, Friday - Encore Summer Camps Registration Deadline Join us in June for Encore Summer Camps at Morningside! Morningside teachers will lead a variety of weeklong camps during the month of June. The average price for a week of fun is $200. Before and after care will be provided for an additional cost. For more information, contact Leigh Ann Bliss at (404) 874-2957 or lbliss@atlanta.k12.ga.us

Inman “Little Screen On The Green”, Rescheduled! Inman Middle School presents “Little Screen on the Green”, Saturday, May 14, at 7:00pm. The movie for our first-ever movie night is The Incredibles. Bring your blankets, food, and beverages (no, not that kind). Thank you for supporting Inman Middle School & we’ll see you and your family at the movie on Saturday night! The movie will be shown rain or shine. If it rains it will be in the Inman Gym

Inman Photo Club Exhibit the Inman photo club is exhibiting at the Ponce de Leon Public Library. The photo club members have been working hard all year; Please come out and see their wonderful Photographs at the library during the month of May.

Support the Inman Oasis as you stroll down Virginia Avenue during summer fest, buy a bottle of cool, delicious water at the Inman Oasis, the booth that refreshes and raises important funds for the Inman PTA.

Recycle Your Computers and Other Electronics the City of Atlanta will have an Electronic Waste Recycling Day on Saturday, June 4, 2005 from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Turner Field Gold lots. Residents in Atlanta and the metropolitan area are encouraged to bring their old computers and household electronic equipment to this E-Scrap Recycling Event. The City will recycle anything and everything that plugs in with a couple of exceptions (mainly large appliances) in an effort to encourage proper disposal of electronic waste – whether the electronic device works of not! This is the first E-Waste recycling event hosted by the City.

Grady - Grady Fashion Show was a SRO extravaganza. The Grady fashion design students designed and constructed dozens of outfits from casual sports ensembles to high-style formal wear. If you have any fabric or trim materials to donate for next year’s class, contact Mr. Martinez, emartinez@atlanta.k12.ga.us. You wouldn’t believe what the students made from old t-shirts.

The summer months are a great time to get to know our MLPA schools better. Check out their websites and see what’s happening!

Grady www.gradyhighschool.org

Inman www.inmanms.org

Morningside www.morningsideschool.org

Sam Zamarripa State Senator D-36
Your Fulton County Property Taxes and the Homestead Fair Assessment Act: SB 610

http://www.zamarripa.com/news_item.jsp?catid=10&contid=33

See Sam’s website for information on how this bill reduces the cost of the Fulton County assessment by limiting increases to 3% per year. Also, see how the bill protects domestic partners, the elderly and those living with elderly parents. Fulton County taxes equal approximately 27% of property tax bills.

Special Events - Daniel Cherrix & Chip Bowden (report submitted via email only)
There were 750+ in attendance at the Movie on Saturday evening. The next movie is Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark on Sat Sept 17th. We hope that there will be more representation from the board.

Celebration of Summer is on schedule. We have yet to receive our permit from the city (application was filed in Feb.) We are in desperate need of volunteers and have asked Alan to send an eblast with request for volunteers. We need board members to step up and volunteer for this event. To volunteer call Daniel 404-290-9362.

Traffic - Bill Ellis
Police Enforcement - Bill is participating with PEDS in a “Traffic Enforcement Task Force” being organized by Dianne and Deputy Chief Dunovant. The Task Force will meet on-going and will include police and citizens. MLPA’s move to Zone 6 will probably be effective in mid-May; meanwhile Bill continues to attend Zone 2’s bi-monthly Citizens Advisory Committee meetings.

MARTA– all bus line changes are on hold until the budget crisis is resolved. Board meeting today to consider fare increase, issue of reciprocal fares. Quick facts:

MARTA carries 98% of public transit passengers in metro Atlanta
MARTA’s tax base is only 2 counties and the City of Atlanta
MARTA is the only rail and bus transit system in a major American city that does not receive state funding.

Monroe Drive – Speed limit is now 30 MPH. Next step is the timing of traffic lights to reduce congestion by evening out traffic. Further steps will include requests for intersection improvements, including pedestrian-activated walk signals, at key crossing points. Bill meeting tomorrow with Halpern Properties to bring them into the Monroe task force.

City Business

As arranged by Mary Norwood, Bill and Tad will meet with new Transportation Deputy Commissioner David Ferguson. We will discuss Transportation’s lack of involvement in the City’s planning process and press for that to change immediately. Also will discuss the lack of a process in the department and propose solutions.
No further news on speed table signatures on University Drive.

Balancing Parking Access and Street Accessibility / Dogwood Festival Traffic Management - We learned that narrow streets that have cars parked on both sides can prevent access, including that of emergency vehicles. The 4 neighborhoods will evaluate the needs on a street-by-street basis and have a plan for next year’s Festival and other events. Residents on narrow streets should expect to participate in decisions. Possibilities include prohibiting parking on one side only during special events, even if that street usually allows it.

North Rock Springs Speed Tables –Signatures for speed tables were turned in to Traffic and Transportation 5/5. Signatures for parking spaces still being gathered. The departments that place the two have committed to coordinating their efforts.

Treasurer - Christine Hung
Realtor Vivian Payne will donate 3% of her commissions in 30306 to MLPA or VA Highland. Written report made available.

NPU - James Strack
As a review, the Cheshire Bridge Road Study - Planning Phase was completed in June 1999 and adopted by the Atlanta City Council shortly thereafter. The recommended Rezoning Phase of the Study, as adapted to the new City of Atlanta Quality Of Life Zoning Ordinance classifications of "Multi-Family Residential"; Mixed Residential Commercial"; and "Neighborhood Commercial" was then passed by the City Council on January 3, 2005 and signed into law by the Mayor shortly thereafter. Mr. Enrique Bascunana of the Bureau of Planning conducted this massive rezoning effort included the rezoning of the 213 property parcels along Cheshire Bridge Road, Bismark Road, Lambert Drive, Piedmont Circle, Rockledge Road and Manchester Street.

The latest news is that Department of Public Works (DPW) - Quality of Life Bond Program has recently released the Cheshire Bridge Road - Phase I Streetscaping Project for public construction bids on April 27. Mr. Greg Holder, Project Manager for the project with the DPW, indicated that the project was advertised in the AJC on May 1st. The bids for the project will be due on or about June 1st. Then if all goes well, a qualified contractor can be chosen by the City, and the lowest bid comes in at or below the budget, then construction could possibly begin on this first phase of the streetscaping project on or about August 1st. The first phase extends from Piedmont and Cheshire Bridge to Manchester and Cheshire Bridge (Johnny's Pizza/Roxx Tavern).

Much thanks need to go to City Councilmember Anne Fauver and her office team for their efforts to speed along this project through the various City departments and keep the communication lines open at the City level. Additional thanks need to go to State Representative Pat Gardner and Senator Sam Zamarripa for making sure that the GDOT gave this project the attention it deserved to move it through the State and Federal funding approval process at the State level.

Zoning-Tad Christian & Trav Carter

Application Number V-05-15 500-600 Amsterdam Ave. (Walk) Applicant: Halpern Enterprises. Inc. Property Owner: Halpern Enterprises. Inc. Applicant seeks a special exception to allow for outdoor seating in the rear of Amsterdam Walk for the two new restaurants. We previously heard a related component of this with respect to parking last month. Note: We still do not have any paperwork from the city for this application. Motion to Approve the outdoor seating. Motion Passed by Zoning Committee: 9- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 - Abstaining. Motion to approve passed by Board: 12 in Favor, 0 Against, 1 Abstaining

Application Number V-05-45 690 Amsterdam Ave. Applicant: Eric M. Smith Property Owner: Eric M. Smith Applicant seeks a special exception to allow for a room addition to an existing non-conforming detached duplex, where otherwise it is prohibited. Motion to defer due to allow applicant more time to work with the city to clarify this variance. Motion Passed by Zoning Committee: 9- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 - Abstaining. Motion to defer passed by Board: 13 in Favor, 0 Against, 0 Abstaining

Application Number V-05-120 1232 Pasadena Ave. Applicant: Serge Watson Property Owner: Donella Bateman, Janet Reynolds Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the east side yard setback from 7 feet (required) to 2.5 feet to allow for an addition to a single family residence. Motion to Defer due to the applicant not in attendance of meeting.

Motion Passed by Zoning Committee: 9- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 - Abstaining. Motion to defer passed by Board: 13 in Favor, 0 Against, 0 Abstaining

Application Number V-05-126 880 Courtenay Drive Applicant: Jasper Boudreaux
Property Owner: Jasper Boudreaux Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the 1/2 depth front yard setback from 17.5 feet (required) to 8 feet to allow for a dormer addition to a single family residence. Motion to Approve the 1/2 depth front yard setback to 8 feet for a dormer addition with the following conditions; per the site plan dated 4-19-2005, letters of support from neighbors adjacent and across the street. Motion Passed by Zoning Committee: 9- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 - Abstaining. Motion to approve with same conditions imposed by the Committee passed by Board: 13 in Favor, 0 Against, 0 Abstaining

Application Number V-05-48 1951 Lenox Road Applicant: William Austin Property Owner: William Austin Applicant seeks a special exception to allow for a 10 foot (privacy fence) wall in the rear and side yards where otherwise it is prohibited.

Motion to Deny. Motion Passed by Zoning Committee: 7- In Favor, 0- Against, 2 - Abstaining. Motion to allow 10 foot (privacy fence)/wall where otherwise it is prohibited, as constructed, subject to removing fence in front yard, lowering side yard fence from 8 foot to 6 foot, planting of fast growing shrubs and letters from adjacent neighbors, passed by Board: 9 in Favor, 2 Against, 0 Abstaining

Application Number V-05-108 1055 Cumberland Road Applicant: Michael Fisers Property Owner: Michael Fisers Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the east side yard setback from 7 feet (required) to 3 feet to allow for an addition to a single family residence. Motion to Approve the variance with the following conditions; no living space in the setback, no impact to the trees, no duplex on the property, and letters of support from neighbors, with a site plan of proposed addition filed with the city by the MLPA meeting. Motion Passed by Zoning Committee: 7- In Favor, 0- Against, 2 - Abstaining. Motion passed by Board with the same conditions imposed by Committee and condition that site plan in filed with the city by the next NPU meeting: 11 in Favor, 0 Against, 0 Abstaining

Application Number SAP-05-06 (Special Administrative Permit) 1370 North Highland
Applicant: Sarran Marshall Property Owner: NHA Associates, LLP Applicant seeks a Special Administrative Permit to allow for the installation of an alternative design wireless telecommunications facility with supporting equipment and to erect a 120 foot "pine tree" design monopole on the property. Note: I still do not have any paperwork from the city for this application. Motion to Approve with the following conditions; letters of support from neighbors within 300 feet, a photo simulation to show what the tower looks like from tree sides, provide a list of all current tower sites in the area, provide an engineering structural failure report, the tower is being designed and built to accommodate a minimum of tree carriers, and to show potential screening of fence around proposed site. Motion Passed by Zoning Committee: 6- In Favor, 1- Against, 1 - Abstaining. Motion to approve passed by Board with same conditions imposed by Committee and the additional conditions that the applicant should make his best effort possible to revise his "stealth tree" design to be more like the Slash Pine and Loblolly Pine trees indigenous to the Morningside Lenox Park Neighborhood, and to bring pictures to NPU meeting with specifications and capability of monopoles at Hammond Park and Johnson Ferry locations for discussion of alternative design options for the North Highland site.: 9 in Favor, 2 Against, 1 Abstaining

New Business:
Owner of Ethiopian restaurant to be located at Piedmont and Rock Springs (former Burger King) received unanimous voice vote of support for his application for a liquor license.

Meeting adjourned at approximately 10:25 pm.

April 11, 2005 MLPA Board of Directors Monthly Meeting

Board and committee members present:
President Norman McKay, Vice President Alan Perry, Treasurer Christine Hung, Secretary Sarah Nunn, Parliamentarian Mae Reich, At Large (South) Shira Kash,

Beautification Chair Kerry Brown, Education Chair Barbara Feinberg, Traffic Chair Bill Ellis, Zoning Co-Chair: Tad Christian, Finance Chair Barry Berlin

Announcements

Meeting on Beltline June 21, 6pm-8pm Fellowship Hall representative from Anne Fauver’s office 20 year celebration of Trees Atlanta Saturday, May 7, 7pm-10pm. More info at TreesAtlanta.org

MLPA annual meeting April 25 at 7:30

Nominating Committee – Bill Ellis

Slate for 2005-06

President - Alan Perry
President - Elect-Lee Nunn
Treasurer - Christine Hung
Parliamentarian - Mae Reich
Membership - Dayna Holbel & Alex Bach
Special Events - Daniel Cherrix & Chip Bowden
Zoning - Tad Christian & Trav Carter
Education - Barbara Feinberg
Traffic - Bill Ellis
NPU Rep - James Strack
At Large - South-Shira Kash
Finance - Barry Berlin

A motion to present proposed slate at annual meeting passed by unanimous voice vote.

Approval of Minutes: A motion to approve the March minutes passed unanimously.

Committee Reports

Security Patrol/Public Safety - Norman McKay
We continue to experience property crime rather than violent crime. Brookwood Hills experienced two shootings today after attempted car break-ins. Zone 6 commander will be at annual meeting.

Schools - Barbara Feinberg
CINS Mark the date for CINS’ April Meeting! CINS will hold its annual Grants Showcase on April 20th, 7 p.m., at the Grady theatre. At the Showcase, teachers who are recipients of CINS grants for the 2004 – 2005 school years will present reports and student performances to demonstrate how the grants benefited our schools. This year CINS distributed just over $15,000 in teacher grants, $1000 of which came from MLPA. Plan to attend the Grants Showcase on April 20th and learn how MLPA dollars were put to excellent use.

Morningside On Wednesday, April 13, MES will be hosting a Prospective Parents Meeting on Wednesday, at 9 a.m. It will be and opportunity for parents to tour the school, meet staff and learn about Morningside's philosophy and teaching approaches. Tours meet in the Media Center. For more information contact Jane Seun (404-477-2520). You do not need to sign up ahead of time to attend. The school will be accepting pre-registration documents for kindergartners and new students from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

On March 30 there was a community meeting at MES on overcrowding at Morningside Elementary School. The presenters emphasized that this was a very preliminary meeting and that no decision has been made to rezone MES. Presenters included Catalina Pescatore (MES’s principal), Sharron Pitts (APS Chief of Staff), and Janice Monk Reardon (Special Assistant to the Chief of Staff). Gloria Patterson (Executive Director for School Reform Team 3) and Mike Holiman (Chair of the Board of Education) also attended. The presenters will make written materials available soon. Lora Rust, PTA president, and Catalina Pescatore will be following up with APS this week to make a packet of information available on the MES website as a reference for those that could not attend. There is no imminent plan with lines drawn. APS will have to go through a lot of data collection and review before that is done. If the data deem it necessary to re-district, the earliest we would see a recommendation (with subsequent public hearings with the community) would be 2/06. There is a possibility that a plan could make it through that process for implementation in 2006-2007 school year. We do know that nothing will be done for the 2005-2006 school year.

Inman the Inman PTA has submitted a donation request to MLPA. The PTA requested funds for one of several projects: $3500 for Saturday Scholars Program for under-performing students, $2000 to add additional supplies to media center, or $1000 to support student participation in academic competitions, $1000 to fund participation in after-school clubs, $1000 to support extracurricular athletic programs or $950 to support health and safety programs. On Saturday, April 30, the Inman PTA will be presenting “Screen on the Green” at Inman athletic field to raise money for audio/visual equipment. The PTA would appreciate MLPA’s advertising this event with an email blast to its membership. Tickets will be $5 for middle school age and older, $3 for elementary school students, and pre-schoolers are free. Title TBD this week by student vote.

Grady Donations from Bob Wildau (Thank you from D. Griffiths) Thank you for your generous donation of the following computer and camera equipment to Grady High School PTSA:

17" Viewsonic 1024 x 768 color monitor - 17" deep
Canon AE-1 35mm SLR camera with center-weighted monitoring & flash attachment plus big front pack to carry it in
Pentium-MMx 233 Mhz desktop computer with 96 Mb of memory and a 6 Gb hard drive and running updated Windows 98 SE
Compaq Presario 1275 laptop with 128 Mb memory and a Pentium II/400Mhz chip and at least a 10 gig hard drive, USB ports, network card, CD-ROM and floppy drives

Georgia Champion Journalist
The Georgia Scholastic Press Association has named Grady senior Katherine Hagan as the 2005 Georgia Champion Journalist. As Georgia's top scholastic journalist, Hagan will be Georgia's entry in the national Journalist of the Year competition sponsored by the Journalism Education Association.

Thursday, April 14: "Making College Financial Planning Count," theater, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

It’s never too soon to begin planning for college—especially how you’re going to pay for it. A free parent seminar is sponsored by the Grady High School Counseling Department and presented by “Making it Count” and “Bank of America.”

Keep those kids reading, listening and watching...

Grady’s media center needs book donations to augment its popular reading collection! Specifically:

The Da Vinci Code - Dan Brown

The Devil Wears Prada - Lauren Weisberger

Their Eyes are Watching God - Zora Neale Hurston

AND

Any books by: Patricia Cornwell, James Patterson, Anne Rice, Alice Walker (esp. Color Purple) and James Patterson.

ALSO

DVDs & Videos suitable for high schoolers and classical CDs.

Thurs – Sat., April 21-23: FIRST Robotics National Competition, Georgia Dome

Grady Drama department presents it spring musical, Ragtime, in the Grady Theater.

Thurs., April 21, and Fri., April 22, at 7:00 p.m.

Sat., April 23, and Sun., April 24, Ragtime, Theater, 2:00 p.m.

Friday, April 29, 2005, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Please come to a showing of artwork made by Grady High School AP Art students, and a celebration of the publication of the 2004-2005 Grady literary magazine, the Unmasking. There will also be a reception with music and readings of poems and other literary works. The event will be held at Eyedrum, 290 MLK Jr. Drive, Atlanta, 30312, (404) 522-0655. Refreshments will be provided.

GOLF CLASSIC, Sunday, April 17, 2005 at Candler Park Golf Course

Come and join the Grady golf team and your friends for the First Annual Grady Golf Classic! Students and adults can all play---amount of experience and skill don't matter! Tee times begin at noon. This fundraiser for the golf team and PTSA will feature closest to pin and other competitions for prizes, glass trophies for the winning foursome made by the Grady Art students, food and drinks for sale, raffles for prizes, and fun for golfers and non-golfers. You may sign up as an individual player or develop your own foursome! Cost is $10 for students and $30 for adults. For more information or to reserve your spot, contact Steven Johnson at 404-323-1054 (sbjohnson617@hotmail.com) or Drew Baughman at 404-872-3495 (dbaughman@cdc.gov).

Motion to approve $1000 for Inman PTA request for funds passed by unanimous voice vote.

Special Events – Norman McKay
Daniel Cherrix has all information submitted and approved by city for upcoming special events:

“Star Wars” in Sunken Garden Park – Saturday, May 7th
Celebration of Summer – Friday, May 20th, 5:30pm
Fall 2005 Tour of Homes – Saturday & Sunday, October 15th & 16th

Traffic – Bill Ellis
Dogwood Festival Traffic Management – MSP provided excellent and effective coverage. APD provided some signs for neighborhoods, emergency decision to have 100 more printed and split cost among the 3 neighborhoods that used them. The additional signs are plastic and will be re-used in future. Of $1,000 that was approved last month, need $720 for officers, $95 for signs, total $815.

Proposed changes in MARTA's 45 bus line – all changes are on hold until the responses to the MARTA Board’s directive to balance the budget can be made. Best guess for progress is June.

Speed Cameras - House Bill 294 passed in the House, 97-51, but stuck in the Judiciary Committee of the Senate until next year. Advocates are organizing communication with the Judiciary Committee members in the interim.

Police Enforcement - Move to Zone 6 will probably be effective in mid-May; meanwhile MLPA has good relationship with Major Propes and the rest of the zone. Continuing efforts to supportively request enforcement of traffic safety. Fate of MLPA radar unit still undetermined.

Monroe Drive - Legislation to lower speed limit to 30 passed Council. Meeting 4/1 with Anne, Traffic & Transportation to request further action items.

City Business - No further news on speed table signatures on University Drive.

North Rock Springs Speed Tables –Signatures for speed tables and parking spaces are still being gathered.

Beautification - Kerry Brown
Parks and Beautification will be merged. Approval for funds to mow four islands. 1-3 mowings over next 2-6 weeks. Maximum of $600. Approved unanimously.

South MLPA – Shira Kash
Morningside – Va Highland parent association continues to grow. Current membership is 550-600 parents representing 700-800 children.

Zoning - Tad Christian

Application Number V-05-36
1371 North Morningside Drive
Applicant: Dixon E. Nash
Property Owner: Robert Hardaway Ferris

Applicant seeks a special exception to allow for the construction of three 7 1/2 feet high ornamental gates in the side and rear yards where such structures are restricted to 6 foot in height. Note: This application was deferred at the NPU last month and the applicant has amended his application.

Zoning Committee motion to approve three ornamental gates of 7 1/2 feet.

Motion Passed: 3- In Favor, 1- Against, 2 – Abstaining.
Board approved motion with voice vote and 1 abstention.

Application Number V-05-45
690 Amsterdam Ave.
Applicant: Eric M. Smith
Property Owner: Eric M. Smith

Applicant seeks a special exception to allow for a room addition to an existing non-conforming detached duplex, where otherwise it is prohibited.

Zoning Committee motion to defer due to applicant not present at the meeting.

Motion Passed: 8- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 – Abstaining.
Board approved motion to defer by unanimous voice vote .

BZA date April 15th

Application Number V-05-48
1951 Lenox Road
Applicant: William Austin
Property Owner: William Austin

Applicant seeks a special exception to allow for a 10 foot (privacy fence) wall on the rear and side yards where otherwise it is prohibited.

Zoning Committee motion to defer due to applicant not present at the meeting.

Motion Passed: 8- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 – Abstaining.
Board #1 Motion to defer 1 month passed by unanimous voice vote.
Board #2 Motion for MLPA to notify BZA in writing of request defer one month until applicant comes before neighborhood.

Application Number V-05-59
839 Courtenay
Applicant: Scott Newton
Property Owner: Michael Mahoney

Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the required front yard setback from 35 feet (required) to 29.7 feet to allow for a second story addition to an existing single family house.

Zoning Committee motion to approve conditioned on the construction staying within the current footprint and with letters of support from next door neighbors and neighbors across the street.

Motion Passed: 7- In Favor, 0- Against, 1 – Abstaining.
Board passed motion by unanimous voice vote.

Application Number V-05-67
1796 Noble Drive
Applicant: Russell Sain
Property Owner: Howard Manne

Applicant seeks a variance to exceed the allowable 35 foot in height for the construction of a single family residence where otherwise prohibited.

Zoning Committee motion to approve with a limit of Maximum height of 35 feet from the ground to the ridgeline in the front of the single family house .

Motion Passed: 6- In Favor, 0- Against, 2 - Abstaining.

Board passed motion as stated with additional restriction of rear height to 50’ 9” to top of ridge 7-In Favor, 0-Against, 2- Abstaining.

Application Number V-05-68
962 Cumberland Road
Applicant: Steve Abbott
Property Owner: Steve Abbott

Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the west side yard setback from 7 feet (required) to 3 feet to allow for the construction of a new single family house.

Zoning Committee motion to approve with letters of support from next door neighbors and neighbors across the street.

Motion Passed: 7- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 – Abstaining.
Board passed motion with unanimous voice vote.

Application Number V-05-77
545 Dutch Valley Road
Applicant: Mark Campis
Property Owner: Five Forty Five, LLC

Applicant seeks a special exception to reduce the off street parking requirement from 28 spaces (required) to 26 spaces to allow for the conversion of an existing warehouse/office building into an all office building.

Zoning Committee motion to approve a parking reduction from 28 spaces to 26 spaces to place a green space area in the 2 required spaces per the drawings date 4-5-2005.

Motion Passed: 7- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 – Abstaining.
Board passed motion with unanimous voice vote.

Application Number V-05-78
901 Plymouth Road
Applicant: Beth Holloway
Property Owner: Beth Holloway

Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the east side yard setback from 7 feet (required) to 2 feet to allow for the construction of a detached storage shed.

Zoning Committee motion to approve variance with the shed not to exceed 9 foot in height.

Motion failed: 3- In Favor, 4- Against, 1 - Abstaining.

#2 Motion to deny

Motion passed: 4- In Favor, 2- Against, 2 – Abstaining.

Board #1 Motion to deny fails 3-In Favor, 3-Against, 2-Abstaining.

#2 Motion to approve was contingent upon the receipt of letters of support from neighbors with adjoining property passed 6-In Favor, 2-Against, 0-Abstaining.

Application Number V-05-98
639 Cumberland Road
Applicant: Charles Turner
Property Owner: Tim Neilsen

Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the west side yard setback from 7 feet (required) to 2 feet and the rear yard setback from 15 feet (required) to 10 feet to allow for the construction of a detached garage.

Zoning Committee motion to approve the west side yard setback to 2 ft. and the rear setback to 10 ft. with the following conditions; 16 ft. maximum height to the top of the ridge, 60 amp electrical service, hose bib plumbing and per the drawings dated 12-6-04. Along with letters of support from the adjacent neighbors.

Note: Zoning committee did not receive any paperwork from the city.

Motion passed: 8- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 – Abstaining.

Board passed motion with unanimous voice vote.

Application Number V-05-105
500 Amsterdam Avenue
Applicant: Sharon Gay
Property Owner: Halpern Enterprises

Applicant seeks a special exception to reduce the total required parking spaces from 727 spaces (required existing nonconforming characteristics) to 288 spaces (existing on site) for the purpose of converting 10,050 square feet of retail to restaurant. NOTE: Existing development has nonconforming parking characteristics; however, the proposed conversion in proportion to the total development represents a reduction from 100 spaces to 50 spaces.

Zoning Committee motion to approve a parking reduction from 727 spaces to 288 spaces with a letter of support from the condo association.

Note: Zoning committee did not receive any paperwork from the city.

Motion passed: 8- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 - Abstaining.

Board passed motion 7-In Favor, 0-Against, 1-Abstaining

Meeting Adjourned.

March 14, 2005 MLPA Board of Directors Monthly Meeting

Board and committee members present: President Norman McKay, Vice President Alan Perry, Secretary Sarah Nunn, Parliamentarian Mae Reich, At Large (North) James Strack,

At Large (South) Shira Kash, Education Chair Barbara Feinberg, Parks Co-Chairs Charlotte Gillis and Karen Schaefer, Zoning Co-Chairs: Tad Christian and Trav Carter

Membership update by Norman. 750 members including 500 MSP members. $70,000 collected since December.

Visit from Grady robotics team, Gear Box Gangstaz who will advance to the Nationals.

Grady's first-ever robotics team competed March 3-5 in the FIRST competition and came away rated #1 among 10 rookie teams. Overall, the team had the sixth highest point score out of a field of 47 teams and will compete on the national level at the Georgia Dome April 21-23. Motion to contribute $1000 (at the expense of the Parks and other budgets) approved unanimously.

Approval of Minutes: A motion to approve the February minutes passed unanimously.

Report by Anne Fauver - Reduction in Monroe Dr speed limit from 35 mph to 30 mph.

Crime report by Norman – Lots of crime just outside the boundaries of Morningside. Limited crime inside boundaries of Morningside, mostly vehicle break-ins with visible wallets, laptops, and other valuables.

Parks Co-Chair Karen Schaefer

Request approval from MLPA board for a donation to Trees Atlanta for trees they supplied to MLPA's neighborhood tree planting. Trees Atlanta provided 50 trees @ $50 per tree for a total of $2500. This expense was anticipated and budgeted for in the Parks Committee 2005 budget

Education Chair Barbara Feinberg

CINS - New Georgia Performance Standards adopted by the state department of education will influence the math, language arts, science and social studies curricula taught in our schools. Changes will be made not only to what is taught, but how it’s taught, when it’s taught and how learning is measured. These new standards – with a focus on changes to the K-12 math curriculum – are the topic of the March meeting of the Council of Intown Neighborhoods and Schools (CINS). Alicia Derin, executive director of teaching and learning for Atlanta Public Schools, will explain the new math standards and how their rollout will affect current elementary, middle and high school students. The meeting will take place: Noon on March 23 at C.W. Hill Elementary, 386 Pine Street, (404) 853-4011. The meeting is free and open to the community. Lunch is available for $5. Mark the date for CINS’ April Meeting!

CINS will hold its annual Grants Showcase on April 20th, 7 p.m., at the Grady theatre. At the Showcase, teachers who are recipients of CINS grants for the 2004 – 2005 school year will present reports and student demonstrations to provide feedback on how the grants have benefited our schools. This year CINS distributed just over $15,000 in teacher grants, $1000 of which came from MLPA. Plan to attend the Grants Showcase on April 20th and learn how MLPA dollars were put to excellent use.

Grady High School - The Projectors are coming! APS will be purchasing 40 LCD projectors for Grady, 5 of which will be installed by Spring Break, the first week in April. That’s great news. However, there will still be a need for funds for additional A-V hardware. APS is not paying for the audio equipment and its installation that will fully activate Grady’s CCTV system. The Grady technology committee projects a need for an additional $8200 to provide VCR/DVD capability in 40+ classrooms.

PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE CRIM/GRADY/SOUTHSIDE REZONING

This August, Atlanta Public Schools will convert Crim to an Open Campus High School. Crim’s new, non-traditional program will offer a flexible, rigorous academic program to APS students age 16 through 21 for whom a traditional high school does not best meet educational needs. As part of the Crim conversion, current Crim students will be rezoned for Southside and Grady high schools. A public meeting will be held at GRADY on Tuesday March 15th, 6:30 p.m., and at Southside on Tuesday March 29th.

GRADY’S GRAND OPENING set for March 20 from 2 – 4 p.m. Join the celebration of the new and renovated Grady High School. Highlights will include the grand ribbon cutting ceremony, tours, performances, demonstrations, and refreshments.

Inman Middle School - Two Inman 7th graders will be participating in this year’s People to People Student Ambassador Program, an educational travel program founded by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Tiara Davis will be travelling in China for two and a half weeks, and Sidney Wise will be participating in the Washington, D. C. program.

Morningside Elementary School - New Date, New Time for Meeting to Discuss Overcrowding at Morningside The PTA invites you to the rescheduled Overcrowding Issues at Morningside Meeting, Wednesday, March 30th at 6:00 PM in the Morningside Auditorium. Valerie Thomas, Director of Facilities for the Atlanta Public Schools will be in attendance to discuss the facilities planning process.

April is the month for Standardized Testing at Inman and Morningside.

3rd and 5th graders will be taking the Iowa Test of Basic Skills and all grades at Inman will be taking the Georgia Criterion Referenced Competency Tests (CRCTs). The results of these national standardized tests provide the data with which our schools are evaluated for annual yearly progress as defined by the No Child Left Behind law. Those findings will be made public by the beginning of the next school year.

Motion to approve Daniel Cherrix’s request for a check for Sunken Garden film approved unanimously.

Traffic Report - Diane Olansky for Bill Ellis

Proposal to pay up to $1000 for parking enforcement by MSP during Dogwood Festival passed unanimously.

Zoning Co-Chairs: Tad Christian and Trav Carter

Application Number V-04-399
1116 Berkshire Road
Applicant: Christopher Smurda
Property Owner: Christopher Smurda & Patrick Clark

Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the east side yard setbacks from 10 ft. required to 1 ft. and the rear yard setback from 20 ft. required to 1 ft. to allow for the construction of a detached garage and porte-cochere to a single family residence. Motion to Deny. Motion Passed by Zoning Committee: 5- In Favor, 0- Against, 2 - Abstaining.

Application Number V-05-35
1470 Kay Lane
Applicant: Bernardo Velha
Property Owner: Bernardo Velha

Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the front yard setback from 35 feet (required) to 22 feet to allow for an addition to a single family house.

Motion to approve conditional on approval of all neighbors on the circular cul-de-sac and conditional of proof that the applicant cannot build additional livable space in the rear of the property and per the plans dated 2-4-05. Motion Passed by Zoning Committee: 6- In Favor, 0- Against, 1 - Abstaining.

Application Number V-05-36
1371 North Morningside Drive
Applicant: Dixon E. Nash
Property Owner: Robert Hardaway Ferris

Applicant seeks a special exception to allow for the construction of a 7.5 foot ornamental gate where such gates are restricted to 6 foot in height. Motion to approve passed unanimously by MLPA board.

Application Number V-05-45
690 Amsterdam Ave.
Applicant: Eric M. Smith
Property Owner: Eric M. Smith

Applicant seeks a special exception to allow for a room addition to an existing non-conforming detached duplex, where otherwise it is prohibited. Motion to Defer. Motion Passed by Zoning Committee: 7- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 - Abstaining. Motion to defer passed unanimously by MLPA board.

Parks Co-Chair Charlotte Gillis

The Conservation Fund now owns Option 1 of the Herbert Taylor Park buffer project. The next step will be for the Fund to donate the parcel to the City of Atlanta and DeKalb County. The City will manage the property as part of Herbert Taylor Park.

Presentation of the 4 master plan alternatives for the Wildwood Forest:

No Action
Nature Trails & Preservation, no bicycles
Balance of Preservation & Recreation, allows bicylces
Preservation & Facilities, hard surface roads like Piedmont Park

Meeting adjourned.

February 14, 2005 MLPA Board of Directors Monthly Meeting (draft)

MLPA is looking for a paid part-time database manager. Must be proficient in Excel. Please contact Lee.Nunn@comcast.net

MSP is looking for paid part-time membership recruiter. Please contact Norman McKay at namatl@comcast.net

Board and committee members present: President Norman McKay, Treasurer Christine Hung, Secretary Sarah Nunn, Parliamentarian Mae Reich, At Large (North) James Strack, Education Chair Barbara Feinberg, Zoning Co-Chair: Tad Christian, Parks Co-Chair Charlotte Gillis, Traffic Chair Bill Ellis, At Large (South) Shira Kash, Zoning Co-Chair, Tad Christian.

Call to order and welcome.

2005 Membership update: 716 replies to date along with $75,551 in dues (includes 459 MSP members and $62,460 for the patrol.) Membership signup forms at www.mlpa.org (“Join Now”.)

Approval of Minutes: A motion to approve the minutes passed unanimously.

Recognition of elected officials in attendance
Anne Fauver reported on Town Hall Meeting. Results of survey: Taxes are too high and MARTA needs to be more widely available. Speeding and potholes are still a problem. Updates: Sewers-city is in process of lining pipes to improve flow, Water-there is money in city budget to address brown water problem, VA Highland fire station-renovation funds available for AC and heating, Parks-city adding second crew with equipment and Mark Taylor Park with have additional land by end of the month.

Security/Public Safety
Norman McKay reported on crime statistics for APD Zone 2 Beat 210 and nearby.

Parks Co-Chair Charlotte Gillis
78 trees planted on 2/12/05. Thanks to Karen Schaeffer for organizing; to Trees Atlanta for trees and staff & volunteers to lead planting teams; neighbors who also attended and planted. Motion to approve $184.86 for pizza for volunteers passed unanimously.

Wildwood Urban Forest Steering Committee meeting on March 7, 7:30-9:00pm at Morningside Presbyterian Church in Fellowship Hall. Discussion of Alternatives for Master Plan. GA Power not yet willing to give up parcel at 2020 Lenox Road. Not yet sure how they will use it. GA Power will continue to coordinate with MLPA, NPU, City, and WUF. Purchase of additional land (Option 1) for Mark Taylor Park to close at end of month. Great support for land purchase from neighborhood, area businesses, Anne Fauver, county and Conservation Fund.

Education Chair Barbara Feinberg
CINS: Information About Your Schools- Want to find out more about the reform models adopted at MLPA public schools? The topic for the February meeting of the Council of Intown Neighborhoods & Schools (CINS) is "A Report Card on Reform Models at CINS Schools." Members of the Atlanta Public Schools' Department of Curriculum & Instruction will tell us how well the various reforms adopted at each of the CINS schools are working. February 16, noon, John Hope Elementary, 112 Boulevard, (404) 330- 4959. The meeting is free and open to the community. Lunch will be available for $5.

Zoning Task Force - Mike Holiman and Liz Coyle are forming a Grady cluster zoning task force to look at some of the issues affecting our schools, including the impact of the Crim High School rezoning on Grady, overcrowding at Morningside and “under crowding” at Inman. City of Atlanta planners are predicting an increase of 31,000 residents in North East Atlanta by 2020! Additionally, within ten years, the City Hall East redevelopment will have a major impact on the area. All schools in the Grady cluster will be affected by these trends. The first Zoning Task Force meeting was held Wednesday, February 9.

Grady High School - Request for Funding from MLPA - Jane Modica, president of the Grady PTSA, has sent a letter requesting funding support from MLPA. In a phone conversation with her this morning, Jane provided more specific details about the request. The PTSA requests that MLPA support its Teacher Grants program, particularly for grants that enable teachers to provide instructional materials and resources, e.g., Spanish videos, supplemental books for required AP US history outside reading, and interactive high school science computer software. Motion to give Grady $1000 approved unanimously.

Technology Update: Solutions to Grady’s computer monitors problems are in the works. APS is moving forward with providing a substantial number of monitors to the school as quickly as possible.

Grady arts is expanding and has need of many items. The wish list includes:
Power tools for wood, metal, and stone working
Sewing and textile tools and supplies
Photographic equipment and supplies
Costumes (as distinguished from regular clothing)
Hand tools (saws, measuring tapes, work gloves, chisels)
Sandpaper for all applications
Good quality fabric
Pianos
Acrylic paint, heavy weight paper, art tools and books
Professional artists, designers, theater techs, dancers, and aficionados to facilitate workshops for students, faculty, and community alike
Rehearsal pianists for Grady's upcoming spring musical
Please share your talents and tools with the expanding arts culture at Grady.

Please contact John Brandhorst with any donation jbrandhorst@atlanta.k12.ga.us

Pianos needed - The music department has an urgent need for pianos and keyboards for the practice rooms. They also need an upright piano (old and beat up is OK!) for Music Appreciation classes. Please contact Kevin Hill khhill@atlanta.k12.ga.us.

Grady on the Bricks - The Grady Foundation is selling bricks that will be engraved and placed in the new Arts Plaza. Individual bricks cost $55 each. Groups of 10 or more are $50 each. Each brick can be engraved with three lines of text of up to 18 characters per line. Funds raised will beautify the campus and fund Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) to Grady. AVID is program designed to increase student performance and college eligibility among traditionally underserved student populations.

Southerner Awards - The Columbia Scholastic Press Association has named Grady High School's newspaper, the Southerner, a 2005 Crown Awards finalist. In September, the staff learned it had won the 2004 Gallup Award from the Quill and Scroll International Honor Society. In November, the staff captured its fourth Pacemaker Award from the National Scholastic Press Association. By earning recognition from the three most prestigious national scholastic press organizations, the 2003-2004 Southerner staff has become the most decorated in the school's history. For the most up-to-date, detailed information about Grady, go to Grady’s website, www.gradyhighschool.org. Check out the award-winning Southerner by clicking on Publications and then The Southerner.

Inman Middle School - On Thursday, February 17, Inman’s PTA will be presenting a parent workshop, “Valuing Inman’s Diversity.” The PTA has been conducting monthly parent workshops that have covered topics including adolescent drug and alcohol concerns, adolescent development and helping children’s homework management. The March topic will be adolescent nutrition and sleep patterns.

Morningside Elementary School - Morningside Elementary was named a 2005 Georgia School of Excellence in Student Achievement, one of only 20 in the state.

Special Events
Tour of Homes October 15 and 16, upcoming movies in Sunken Garden Park

Traffic Chair Bill Ellis
Highland Avenue Transit Solutions (HATS) - Update January 2005 - HATS is very excited to bring good news to you regarding our efforts to bring transit solutions closer to our neighborhoods. In Spring of 2004, you completed a survey asking what the transportation needs of the community are. Over 550 participants responded, and their feedback indicates great potential for increased use of public transit if service can be better tailored to their needs. In a previous memo, we outlined these results. The purpose of this memo is to relay what has happened since those results were tabulated.

HATS presented the results to MARTA during the summer. One of the most significant responses on the survey was a need for a bus from the corner of Virginia Avenue and North Highland Avenue connecting to the Midtown MARTA rail station. This was by far the most requested rail destination, requested by 79% of the respondents. It became very clear that MARTA had a great opportunity to meet the desire for east-west travel.

MARTA listened, MARTA responded, and MARTA needs our support. Current plans are to establish an EAST/WEST bus between the Midtown MARTA rail station and Emory Village. The opportunity exists to form an east-west route that would serve the tens of thousands of commuters/students at two major universities (Georgia Tech and Emory) and the thousands of residents in-between. Each university has created its own transit system, which connects into MARTA at some point. The missing link is a MARTA-created connection that would allow an easy east-west flow, and allow access to points in between, with the Virginia Avenue/ N. Highland Avenue intersection as the focal center point.

HATS survey participants overwhelmingly listed the Midtown MARTA station as a highly desirable destination, but there is no current MARTA route that easily takes them there. The terminus for the Tech Trolley is at the Midtown MARTA station. Linking Georgia Tech with Midtown with Virginia-Highland with Emory Village and so forth is a community need currently not served. Right in the middle of this east-west Corridor is Piedmont Park: very visible now as a symbol of a destination with a need for better public transportation. The route recommended would run east from the Midtown Station along 10th Street, through the Virginia-Highland neighborhood along Virginia Avenue, and turn around at Emory Village.

Please note that the original proposal of making the North Highland bus routes more neighborhood friendly is still in progress. MARTA is committed to working with HATS and the community. However, MARTA can make the east-west connection happen fairly quickly, and we have offered our help to make this a reality by the Dogwood Festival in April 2005.

The proposed line will modify the current 45 – Virginia Frederica bus route. We need your support at the public hearing that will be scheduled in the near future. How can you help? You can speak up in favor of this new proposal and help spread the word. We will notify you when the hearing date is set, and we welcome any feedback you may have.

Highland Corridor Group (HATS) / MARTA – March 10 at Inman Middles School at 6pm hearing for changes in 45 bus line. Proposed route change will depart Midtown Station instead of North Avenue Station; go east along 10th Street and Virginia; south on North Highland; east on Ponce de Leon; north on Briarcliff; and east on North Decatur to Emory Village.

Speed Cameras – Legislation to allow speed cameras in school zones during school arrival and dismissal times will be out of committee and on the floor by the end of February.

Morningside Elementary School – parental cooperation with safety and traffic rules still varies, during After-school program and regular school hours. Plea to VHMPA to openly support and follow.

Police Enforcement – Radar unit received annual certification in January. Still not clear whether Morningside, Lindridge-Martin Manor, and Piedmont Heights will remain in Zone 2 or be moved to Zone 6. Meeting Wednesday with Major Propes of Zone 6 on behalf of NPU-F.

Monroe Drive – Request to lower speed limit to 30 is going through the required channels; some crosswalks have been re-striped. Still need improvement at Park Drive and safer crossing at Yorkshire. Will discuss park event traffic management with Major Propes Wednesday.

City Business - At Anne’s Town Hall meeting, asked when the remainder of the 6 requests from January 2004 will be acted on. Commissioner Scott had not yet arrived when question was asked. Remaining items are: parking on only one side of Cumberland adjacent to Sidney Marcus Park; extension of milling on Lenox Road curve; removal of No Parking signs and marking of parking spaces on one side of North Rock Springs.

All-way stop at Hillpine crest still pending implementation.

Speed humps approved for the City portion of University Drive. Residents are currently gathering signatures.

North Rock Springs Speed Tables – Neighbor and URS traffic engineer meeting planned to determine configuration of speed tables.

ARC Treatment of Traffic Calming Application – ARC is funding the Ansley Park plan (the lead plan for the 4 neighborhoods) as a pilot; subsequent funding will be based on Ansley’s results.

NPU priorities for 2005-2020 CDP – Monroe Drive sidewalks, Lenox Road sidewalks, Cheshire bridge/LaVista/Lindbergh intersection. MLPA Traffic Calming Plan was submitted in 2003.

Southface/Sustainable Atlanta – Bill and Tad to join and attend Sustainable Atlanta breakfasts 1st Friday of each month. Sustainability topics centered on Land Use and Transportation.

At Large (North) James Strack
Cheshire Bridge rezoning. Continued discussion of moving power poles.

Treasurer Christine Hung
Motion to approve budget approved unanimously.

Zoning Co-Chair: Tad Christian

Application Number V-04-379 1374 Lanier Blvd Applicant: Ana Placeres Property Owner: Ana Placeres Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the front yard setback from the required 35 feet to 27 feet and the south side yard setback from the required 7 feet to 6.7 feet to allow for a 2nd story addition to a single family residence. Motion to support application per the plans submitted so long as the front footprint exclusive of the porch is maintained and the side continues in the same plane as it is. Motion Passed by Zoning Committee: 4- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 - Abstaining. No tree impact. Approved by MLPA board unanimously.

Application Number V-04-399 1116 Berkshire Road Applicant: Christopher Smurda Property Owner: Christopher Smurda & Patrick Clark Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the east side yard setbacks from 10 ft. required to 1 ft. and the rear yard setback from 20 ft. required to 1 ft. to allow for the construction of a detached garage and porte-cochere to a single family residence. Motion to defer to allow applicant an opportunity to continue to meet with the neighbors. Motion Passed by Zoning Committee: 5- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 - Abstaining. Deferred for one month by MLPA board.

Application Number V-05-05 715 Wildwood Place Applicant: Kirby Frank Property Owner: Kirby Frank Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the front yard setback from 35 feet (required) to 14 feet and the south side yard setback from 7 feet (required) to 1.9 feet to allow for a new detached accessory structure (carport) addition and also to allow for a detached accessory structure (carport) in front of the main structure, where otherwise it is prohibited. Motion to support application upon submission of site plans, 60 amp service, height limit of 12 feet, and one hose bib. Motion Passed by Zoning Committee: 4- In Favor, 1- Against, 0 - Abstaining. No tree impact. Site plans given. Approved by MLPA board unanimously.

Application Number V-05-22 1930 Wildwood Place Applicant: Michael Faust Property Owner: Alexander Hitz Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the front yard setback from 35 feet (required) to 29 feet to allow for a room addition to an existing single family house. Note: Zoning committee did not have a copy of the application from the city. Motion to support application per the plans that are not filed, but submitted to the zoning committee, with the following conditions: The proposed extension in the front yard does not exceed the left side footprint of the house. Letters of support from the adjacent neighbors. Submittal of all the required paperwork from the applicant that was submitted to the city. There are no other variances required with the application. Motion Passed by Zoning Committee: 4- In Favor, 0- Against, 1 - Abstaining. Motion to defer for one month passed 7-1-0.

Thep-Thai restaurant on Lenox Road will change name on alcohol license. Motion to approve passed unanimously.

Norman announced the 2005 MLPA Board Nominating Committee

Meeting adjourned.

Monday, January 10, 2005 MLPA Board of Directors Monthly Meeting (draft)

Board and committee members present:
President Norman McKay, Vice President Alan Perry, Treasurer Christine Hung, Secretary Sarah Nunn, Parliamentarian Mae Reich, At Large (North) James Strack, At Large (South) Shira Kash, Education Chair Barbara Feinberg, Finance Chair Barry Berlin, Parks Co-Chairs Charlotte Gillis and Karen Schaefer, Traffic Chair Bill Ellis, Zoning Co-Chairs: Tad Christian and Trav Carter, NPU F Julian Bene.

President Norman McKay: Renewal mail-out is off to a record start. 500 responses and $50,000 collected so far.

From Anne Fauver’s office: The city recycles Christmas trees and phone books.

Joanna Adams, new Pastor of Morningside Presbyterian: Rev. Adams looks forward to more collaboration between Morningside Presbyterian and MLPA.

Approval of Minutes: A motion to approve amended minutes passed unanimously.

Amended "Special Events" Dec04 minutes to say, "McKay met with Daniel Cherrix to discuss plans for Fall 05 Tour of Homes. Meetings to commence in early Jan 05. Cherrix has received commitment from Harry Norman, Realtors to be one of the main sponsors of the Tour along with other advertising commitments in 05 to benefit MLPA."

Recognition of Elected Officials: Ansel Morris is contact for Lamar Willis’ office for City Council. Ansel’s contact info is 404-330-6041 and admorris@atlantaga.gov. Anne Fauver.

Security/ Public Safety presented by President Norman McKay: Armed robbery in Windham Park last week. Various vehicle break-ins. Two arrests. MLPA slated to move to Zone 6 from Zone 2.

Parks Co-Chairs Charlotte Gillis: Annual tree planting on Feb. 12. Send requests for street trees and front yard trees to Charlotte or Karen Schaefer. We need volunteers and several trucks for the planting activities.

Herbert Taylor Park Buffer Acquisition Project: Negotiations are continuing. Approximately $590,000 has been committed from city, county, community, institutions, & foundations. Anne Fauver has been a huge help in this effort.

The footbridge at Lenox-Wildwood Park that was moved by one of the storms has been reported to the Parks Dept. The bridge will be returned to its original location. A trash can will be placed near the grill.

Ongoing problem with yard and tree workers dumping debris in Wildwood Park ravine.

Treasurer Christine Hung: We’ve already collected as much money as we collected last year. We’re open to suggestions to collecting even more. One sidewalk repair approved.

Education Chair Barbara Feinberg
CINS
The Council of Intown Neighborhoods and Schools will hold meet on Wednesday, January 19th at 7 p.m. The meeting will be at Mary Lin Elementary School. The meeting will focus on legislation expected to arise during the upcoming Georgia General Assembly.

Grady High School
Technology SNAFU: Before renovation began at Grady last Spring, teachers were advised to “surplus” their classroom TV sets in favor of new LCD projectors, and based on the instructional technology plan, television mounts were removed from plans for the school. Shortly before school opened last summer, it became clear that there had been no funding for the LCD projectors, equipment that was outside the guidelines for SPLOST funds. It is estimated to cost 150K to equip the school with the LCD equipment. Grady’s school council and PTSA technology committee have written to APS Superintendent Dr. Beverly Hall, three Cabinet-level officials and Valerie Thomas, APS Facilities Director. Additionally, solutions are being sought for repairing the roof, a key item that had not been included in the renovation plans.

Grady’s drama department will inaugurate the new Grady theater complex with a production of Alice in Wonderland on January 20, 21 and 22, at 7 p.m. each evening.

At the National Scholastic Press Association held in late November, Grady students brought home 9 awards, and the Southerner won a 2004 NSPA Newspaper Pacemaker award, its second in the last two years. The Pacemaker is deemed by many to be the scholastic journalism equivalent to a Pulitzer prize.

Grady will be fielding a team of 25 students, the Gearbox Gangstas, in the FIRST Robotics Competition. Funded by a generous grant from Turner Broadcasting, the team began work on Jan. 8, and will have six weeks to design and build a competition-ready robot.

Inman Middle School
On Friday, January 28th Inman will host its annual Spaghetti Supper and the whole community is invited. There will also be a bake sale, art show and sale and the opening of the Book Fair.

On Monday, January 31st the Alvin Ailey Dance Company will visit Inman for a week and conduct movement workshops with the 8th grade. All 8th graders will received free tickets to the Alvin Ailey performance at the Fox. This is the fourth year the Alvin Ailey Dance Company has come to Inman to work with its students.

Morningside Elementary School
Walk-to-School Days has increased to 2 days per week, on Wednesdays and Fridays. Morningside’s Book Fair will run from Jan. 24 through Jan. 28th, with extended hours on Tuesday, Jan. 25th. Drop by Morningside and buy some books

Special Events: Daniel Cherrix is already planning the 2005 Tour of Homes.

Traffic Chair Bill Ellis: North Rock Springs Speed Tables – residents will meet this month to determine whether to use city’s current speed hump design or pay difference for speed tables.

Highland Corridor Group (HATS) / MARTA – Meeting coming up on January 20.

Radar Unit – annual certification 1/20. Still not clear whether we will be in Zone 2 or Zone 6. Maj. Spillane wants to keep Morningside if Zone 2 gets adequate staff. Motion made and approved to write a letter to request that MLPA stay in Zone 2.

Morningside Elementary School – still problems with after-school Rec Center parent parking on Fordham. Bill placing flyers on windshields this week.

Town Hall meeting February 3, 6:30, Grady High School. All Commissioners will be there. Bill will bring Commissioner Scott’s attention to inactivity on 6 requests submitted January 2004.

Traffic Committee considering change to another night for monthly meeting.

Motion made and passed to approve $125 to from Traffic committee budget to help Citizens for Progressive Transit to incorporate as 50lc3. $250 approved for this year’s PEDS membership.

At Large (North) James Strack: Rezoning on Cheshire Bridge Road is progressing.

At Large (South) Shira Kash: Parent association has 400 families with 650 kids.

NPU-F President: Dianne Olansky: Meeting at Hillside next Monday

Zoning Co-Chair: Tad Christian

Application Number V-04-362 1001 Mclynn Ave. Applicant: Audrey Godiers Property Owner: David Scurlock Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the east side yard setbacks from 7 ft. required to 4 ft. 6 inches and the to allow for a second story addition to a single family residence. Motion to approve the east side yard variance per the plans dated 11-22-04 and the site plan dated 7-28-98. Also need letters from adjacent neighbors prior to the NPU meeting. Zoning Committee motion passed: 6- In Favor, 0- Against, 1 - Abstaining.

Motion passed 11-0-0 by MLPA board.

Application Number V-04-367 1112 Zimmer Drive Applicant: Anthony & Sylvan Pools Property Owner: Gregory Wolters Applicant seeks a variance to increase the maximum allowed lot coverage from 50% required to 62.2% to allow for the construction of a new swimming pool at the rear of and existing single family residence. Motion to approve the variance per the plans dated 11-24-04 and the site plan dated 9-23-04. Also need letters from adjacent neighbors prior to the NPU meeting. Zoning Committee motion Passed: 4- In Favor, 3- Against, 0 - Abstaining.

Motion denied 8-2-1 by MLPA board

Application Number V-04-379 1374 Lanier Blvd. Applicant: Ana Placeres Property Owner: Ana Placeres Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the front yard setbacks from 35 ft. required to 27 ft. and the south side yard setback from 7 ft. required to 6 ft. 7 inches to allow for a second story addition to a single family residence. Motion to defer due to the applicant not being present at the zoning meeting.

Motion Passed: 8- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 - Abstaining.

Deferred.

Application Number V-04-399 1116 Berkshire Road Applicant: Christopher Smurda Property Owner: Christopher Smurda & Patrick Clark Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the east side yard setbacks from 10 ft. required to 1 ft. and the rear yard setback from 20 ft. required to 1 ft. to allow for the construction of a detached garage and porte-cochere to a single family residence. Motion to defer to allow applicant an opportunity to meet with the neighbors. Motion Passed: 8- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 - Abstaining.

Deferred.

Application Number V-04-413 1411 & 1417 Dutch Valley Place Applicant: Joseph Israelov Property Owner: Joseph Israelov Applicant seeks a special exception to reduce the required parking from 21 spaces to 8 spaces for the conversion of an existing warehouse to an office. Motion to approve the reduction to 8 spaces from the required number contingent on the applicant showing a referral certificate at the MLPA Meeting.. Zoning Committee motion passed: 8- In Favor, 0- Against, 0 - Abstaining.

Motion passed 8-1-2 by MLPA board

Application Number V-04-414 1279 Pasadena Applicant: Dayna Holbel Property Owner: James & Dayna Holbel Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the west side yard setbacks from 7 ft. required to 2 ft. and the rear yard setback from 15 ft. required to 5 ft. to allow for the construction of a new two story detached garage. Motion to approve based on neighbor approval, limiting the garage to 60 amp service, per the plans dated 12-29-04 and per the site plan dated 11-01-04. Zoning Committee motion passed: 5- In Favor, 3- Against, 0 - Abstaining.

Motion passed 6-4-2 by MLPA board

Alcohol Licenses Kroger is changing the individual licensed for alcohol sales.

Club in Amsterdam Walk. Approved unanimously.

Meeting adjourned.

December 13, 2004 MLPA Board of Directors Monthly Meeting (draft)

Board and committee members present:
President Norman McKay, Treasurer Christine Hung, Secretary Sarah Nunn, Parliamentarian Mae Reich, Security Patrol/Public Safety Chair Mike Carew, At Large (North) James Strack, At Large (South) Shira Kash, Traffic Chair Bill Ellis, Zoning Co-Chairs: Tad Christian and Trav Carter, Education Chair Barbara Feinberg, Parks Co-Chair Charlotte Gillis, NPU F Representative Julian Bene

Approval of Minutes:
A motion to approve the November 2004 minutes passed unanimously.

Treasurer: Christine Hung
$5000 paid for Johnson Taylor Park. No current cap for sidewalk repair. Approval for $495 sidewalk repair, $555 finial on Amsterdam column, $1000 for Morningside Presbyterian (use of facilities), $1020 for signs promoting Wizard of Oz movie. Motion to cap sidewalk repair at $500 approved unanimously. $1700 total holiday bonus for security patrol will be deferred.

Anne Fauver
City of Atlanta is beginning to cut off water to people who don’t pay bills. $310,000 has been raised to buy land at Johnson Taylor Park. Still need another $285,000 to buy all three pieces of land. Anne is running for re-election.

Lamar Willis
Now three years in office. Lamar arranged for a directory of city resources with the help of corporate sponsors.

Housing Code Enforcement – Call 404 330 6190 to inquire about enforcement of any city codes. Ask for Dwight Cobb or Yolanda Mack. Ymack@atlantaga.gov

Nominating Committee:
20 positions, 6 of which are executive positions. The nominating committee will send an email blast to all members.

Security Patrol/Public Safety: Chair Mike Carew
Arrests for drug dealing near Morningside Elementary. Quiet recently except for spike during Thanksgiving. Look out for mail theft, car break-ins, and car theft. Check out safety tips at mlpa.org. Look out for woman with magazine scam.

Mike said that he found it unacceptable that a membership shortfall in the past year and a delay in the membership campaign for the forthcoming year had left the security patrol with too few funds to maintain staffing levels and to pay the customary year-end bonuses to the officers. The board accepted Mike’s resignation as committee chair.

Parks Co-Chair: Charlotte Gillis
Tree planting in January. Send suggestions on locations to Charlotte.

Education Chair: Barbara Feinberg
Grady HS newsletter says that library needs books. Ask yard sale sponsors for donations.

Tour of Homes:
Harry Norman (Daniel Cherrix) will sponsor the Tour of Homes.

Membership:
Lee Nunn reported that the database has been cleaned up and reflects all current homeowners in MLPA. A membership renewal notice will be mailed by 12/16. Lee suggested a $25 credit to MSP members who recruit new MSP members. The general consensus of the Board is to contract with a person to follow-up and sign up neighbors who don’t respond to the mailer starting this spring. Compensation to the recruiter would be $25 for each new MSP member. 2005 MSP stickers will be mailed with thank you note acknowledgements and vacation cards.

Traffic: Bill Ellis
Police enforcement statistics still unknown for 3 months. Bill and Dianne scheduled meeting with Maj. Spillane on December 9 but he was unable to come. Zone 2 is still very short-staffed.

Highland Corridor Group (HATS) met with MARTA Dec 8 and looked at draft plans for improved bus service to and on North Highland. First project will probably be a cross-town line to connect Midtown rail station, Piedmont Park, Virginia and Highland, and Emory Village.

A citizens’ group is meeting tomorrow with Traffic Services to negotiate safety measures on Monroe Drive. A lowered speed limit, traffic light synchronization, and improved crosswalk visibility are the first goals. Yorkshire at Monroe is the key intersection north of Amsterdam (therefore in Morningside) needing safety treatment.

ARC’s funding for 4-neighborhood Traffic Calming project shifted to cover Ansley’s portion as pilot, other neighborhoods after Ansley success is seen.

Still no progress on the six requests made to Traffic Services in January.

At Large (North): James Strack
It was pointed out, due to Anne Fauver's skillful leadership and persistence in City Council this past year that the rezoning of Cheshire Bridge Road, as recommended in the 1999 Cheshire Bridge Road Study is now on track to be approved and implemented by the Atlanta City Council in January.

Zoning:
Z-04-119 Ordinance by City Council member Mary Norwood to amend the Zoning Code of the City of Atlanta by creating a new residential zoning classification - to be identified as R-2b. Presentation made to the Zoning Committee. Motion to deny the creation of this new residential zoning classification passed by zoning committee 3-1-2 (3 in favor, 1 opposed, 2 abstaining). Motion by MLPA to oppose new classification. Split vote 5-2-3.

V-04-299 1677 Lenox Road - Applicant: Keith Thieme - Owner: Rebecca Leary-Safon Applicant has withdrawn the application and the NPU chair has received the withdrawal letter.

V-04-314 1199 North Highland at Amsterdam - Applicant: David Green – Owner ? Property actually in Virginia Highlands, but is next to Morningside and the applicant wanted to present this to us and ask for our support. Variance to reduce the south side transitional yard from the required 20 feet to 15 feet, reduce the east side transitional yard from the required 20 feet to 13 feet for the construction of a one story commercial building. Also seeks special exception to reduce required parking from 17 to 14 spaces. Motion to approve passed by zoning committee 6-0-0. Motion to approve passed by MLPA board 10-0-0.

V-04-362 1066 Highpoint Drive – Applicant/owner: Bradley & Eileen Mackett Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the front yard setbacks from 35 ft. (required) to 13 ft. 10 inches and the west side yard setback from 7 ft. (required) to 4 ft. to allow for construction of a single family residence. Motion to approve the front yard and west side yard variances per the plans dated 11-18-04 and the site plan dated 10-25-04. Zoning committee approved 6-0-0. Motion to approve (subject to letters from neighbors at 1061 and 1067 Reeder Circle) approved by MLPA 9-0-0.

Meeting adjourned.

November 8, 2004 MLPA Board of Directors Monthly Meeting

Board and committee members present:
Norman McKay, Christine Hung, Mae Reich, Alan Perry, Sarah Nunn, Bill Ellis, Charlotte Gillis, James Strack, Tad Christian.

Approval of Minutes:
A motion to approve the October 2004 minutes passed unanimously.

Parks: Charlotte Gillis
Tree planting Feb 12. Send suggestions for locations.

Volunteer found for graffiti removal.

Discussion of Daniel Johnson Nature Preserve/Herbert Taylor Park. Need to raise private contributions by November 18 to supplement City of Atlanta and Dekalb County funds in order to preserve green space. Motion to provide $5000 from Beautification and Parks budgets to fund purchase of green space passed 9-0-1.

Traffic: Bill Ellis
Morningside Elementary drive-through lane is working better; still need to communicate with After School parents. Walking to school is becoming more popular. Kiss-Off pilot program starts this Wednesday, encouraging parents not to enter school building as they drop kids off.

Police enforcement statistics still unknown for 2 months. Bill and Dianne will schedule meeting with Maj. Spillane.

Highland Corridor Group (HATS) met with MARTA November 4, including Clifton Corridor reps. MARTA promises draft of route change proposal for Dec 8 meeting.

ARC’s funding for 4-neighborhood Traffic Calming project shifted to cover Ansley’s portion as pilot, other neighborhoods after Ansley success is seen.

No progress on the six requests made to Traffic Services in January. Additional request from this July: all-way stop at Hillpine intersection.

At Large North: James Strack
Street scraping on Cheshire Bridge Road. Power poles still need to be moved at a cost of $7,000 apiece.

Rezoning of Cheshire Bridge Road planned for January 2005. Ann Fauver will start approval process.

Treasurer: Christine Hung
Budget process will start soon. Two invoices approved, second of which is subject to confirming sidewalk repair policy. Side walk repair is 50% up to a limit, which Alan Perry will confirm.

Zoning Co-Chairs: Tad Christian

04-270 BZA 11/19/04 1218 Lanier Blvd. – Applicant owner: Allen & Audrie Eidson Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the north side yard setback from 7 ft. (required) to 1 ft. and the rear yard setback from 15 ft. (required) to 3 ft. to allow for the construction of a detached garaged addition. Motion to approve the north side yard setback to 2 ft. and the rear setback to 3ft. with the following conditions; 16 ft. maximum height to the top of the ridge, 60 amp electrical service, hose bib plumbing and per drawings dated 11/2/04. No tree impact. Motion passed 11-0-0

Application: V-04-273 782 Wildwood Road. – withdrawn

Application: V-04-291 717 E. Morningside Drive. BZA date unknown. Applicant: Robert Nelson; owner: Jeanna Brannon

Note: Zoning committee did not receive any paperwork from the city and the applicant did not receive a Referral Certificate from the city.

Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the side yard setback from 7 ft. (required) to 3 ft. and the rear yard setback from 15 ft. (required) to 7 ft. to allow for the construction of a detached garage addition. As stated by the applicant.

Motion to approve the side yard setback 3ft. and rear setback 7ft. with the following conditions; 16 ft. maximum height to the top of the ridge, 60 amp electrical service, hose bib plumbing and per the drawings dated 10-28-04.

No tree impact.

Motion passed: 10-0-1

Application V-04-313 – BZA date unknown. 1298 Lanier Blvd. Applicant: Dixon Taylor

Note: Zoning committee did not receive any paperwork from the city and the applicant did not receive a Referral Certificate from the city.

Applicant seeks a variance to reduce front y ard setback from 35 ft. to 22.4 ft. and reduce south side yard setback from 7 ft. to 2 ft. for addition to single family residence per site plan dated 9/23/04 and architectural drawings dated 10/12/04.

No tree impact.

Motion passed: 10-0-1.

Mae Reich – Piedmont Park North Woods expansion
Discussion of Plan B1, which preserves green space and does not include the parking deck.

Discussion of Plan A1, which includes an 800 space parking deck.

No board member present supports A1 with no changes.

2 board members support A1 with changes.

No board member present supports B1 with no changes.

7 board members support B1 with changes.

Meeting adjourned.

October 11, 2004 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes

Board and committee members present: Mike Carew, Norman McKay, Mae Reich, Tad Christian, Trav Carter, Charlotte Gillis, Barbara Feinberg, Bill Ellis, Shira Kash and Sarah Nunn.

Approval of Minutes: A motion to approve the September 2004 minutes passed unanimously.

Committee reports:

Security/Public Safety: no report

Parks: Charlotte Gillis. Request to fund a proposal to deal with kudzu problem in Lenox Wildwood Park not to exceed $300. Motion passed unanimously.

Schools: Barbara Feinberg. Grady received a $500,000 grant from GA Department of Education to fund vocational equipment center that will include a business lab, graphic arts and broadcast and video. Inman: Fifteen 8th grade students will participate in an Outward Bound program in October.

Special Events: no report

Traffic: Bill Ellis. Morningside Elementary PTA the neighborhood and the city have collaborated to institute no parking on the right side of Fordham Court and a number system to ease carpool congestion at the school. PED’s has unwritten the installation of a traffic camera on E. Rock Springs Road for 6 months.

October 5th Clifton Corridor Transportation Management Association resulted in a commitment to work together; interest in HATS; commitment to work with affected neighborhoods on streetcar solution; asked for help in networking with Atlanta, Fulton County entities.

Highland Corridor Group (HATS)/MARTA- October 18th meeting is rescheduled for the first week in November

City Business – Task Request Update
Lenox milling – not done
Sidney Marcus Park Parking on one side only – not done (speed hump request failed)
Johnson Road crosswalks – not done
North Rock Springs – speed hump test passed; no action on permitting parking on one side
North Morningside at North Highland – lanes defined

Other Business: Bill will meet with sheriff candidates Danny Stephens and Myron Freemen on October 12 and will report at NPU-F meeting next Monday.

North MLPA: no report

South MLPA: Shira Kash.. M orningside Virginia Highland parent group has 360 members representing 500
children.

NPU Representative: no report

Finance: no report

Treasurer: no report

Zoning

V-04-253 1065 McLynn Avenue: owner Ann Schramm. Request variance to reduce east side yard setback from 7 ft required to 5.8 ft to allow for construction of a 2nd story addition to a single family residence based on site plans dated 8/6/04. No impact on trees. MLPA Zoning committee: 8-0-2 in favor MLPA Board: 9-0-0 passed unanimously.

V-04-254 1014 McLynn Avenue: owners Joel and Martha Craft. Request variance to reduce west side yard setback from 7 ft required to 1 ft to build new detached carport. Potential tree impact 6”+ magnolia to be reviewed by city arborist. MLPA Zoning Committee: 10-0-0 in favor Standard conditions 16’ height maximum to top of ridge, 60 amp electrical, plumbing limited to hose bib per site plan dated 7/22/04. Need letters from neighbors.
MLPA Board: 8-0-2 in favor

Z-04-113 1365 Pasadena Avenue: owner Perrin Taylor, applicant Michael McLaughlin. Rezoning from R-4 to PD-H, reduce front yard setback from 35 ft to 15 ft to build 4 single family houses per plans dated 9/13/04. Tree impact: 17 of 59 existing trees to be cut down MLPA Zoning Committee: 10-0-0 in favor MLPA Board: 10-0-0 in favor

V-04-265 1147 Reeder Circle: owners Cynthia Whitney and Scott Frid, applicant: Kiersten Lurer. Request variance to reduce west side yard setback from 7 ft required to 3.9 ft to allow for second story addition to single family
house per plans dated 8/10/04. No impact on trees. MLPA Zoning Committee: 9-0-0 in favor MLPA Board: 10-0-0.

V-04-270 1218 Lanier Blvd: owners Allen Audrie Eidson – no show

Old Business:
The BZA supported Thomas Concrete’s appeal of the denial of a permit from the City of Atlanta to build a concrete plant at Lambert Road site. Diane Barfield of the city zoning department said she was in error when she denied the permit request.

New Business:
Anne Fauver: New liquor licenses will be handled by the Zoning Department. This is in an effort to help address the attendant parking issues that arise. Zoning will require onsite parking to let a license.

A motion was made and passed to establish a sub-committee with Alan Perry, Mike Carew and Lee Nunn to study Security Patrol membership. Next month Joelle Spain will holda membership kickoff meeting.

Mae Reich reports there will be a North Woods Advisory meeting on Wednesday, October 20th and would like neighborhood input. Norman will do an eblast to solicit input.

Meeting adjourned 9pm.

September 13, 2004 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes

Board and committee members present: Norman McKay, Christine Hung, Mae Reich, Tad Christian, Alan Perry, Shira Kash, James Strack, Barbara Feinberg, Susan Drake, Kerry Brown, Daniel Cherrix, Bill Ellis and Sarah Nunn.

Approval of Minutes: A motion to approve the minutes passed unanimously.

Committee Reports

Security/Public Safety: No report

Parks: Kerry Brown. October 2nd Rock Creek clean-up at 9am until noon - Daniel Johnson Nature Preserve on Beech Valley Road. September 14th special election for Fulton County Soil and Water District Supervisors cancelled due to lawsuit.

Schools: Barbara Feinberg. The Grady new media center is looking for the donation of books, DVDs and CD dating from 2000 to the present. Inman’s October 7th parent education program will feature Becky Vaughn, the director of the Georgia Council on Substance Abuse. Morningside Elementary parent work day is September 18th.

Special Events: Daniel Cherrix September 18 MLPA will sponsor a big screen movie showing of "The Wizard of OZ" in Sunken Garden Park. Costume contest at 6:30 p.m. and movie begins at dusk.

Traffic: Bill Ellis. There will be 4 public hearings in September regarding the Marta Beltline/C Loop.

August 25 there will be a third public meeting about the Clifton Corridor Transportation Study. Emory is looking for a way to connect to Lindbergh station and this could have a big impact on Lenox Circle.

North MLPA: James Strack. Rezoning information meetings to carry out Cheshire Bridge Road study completed. Streetscape is delayed while DOT, Department of Public Works and Georgia Power discuss logistics and funding to move power polls.

South MLPA: Shira Kash. A new parent group board will be installed next week.

Officials in Attendance: Anne Fauver. The new city CFO is Janice Davis formerly with the Dallas Fort Worth airport. Planning Commissioner Charles Graves resigned and James Shelby is acting commissioner. September 10 is the final work session for city council regarding the proposed city smoking ban.

NPU Representative: no report

Finance: no report

Treasurer: Christine Hung. Motion approved to pay MLPA March newsletter bill for
$2878.05.

Zoning Applications heard

V-04-187
740 Lambert Drive
Property owner: Metalico Evans
Party appealing to the City: Thomas Concrete
Thomas Concrete seeks neighborhood/NPU-F support in their appeal to the City of Atlanta over the City’s failure to process their building permit. They want to build a concrete mixing plant on this site, which is zoned “light
industrial” I-1. Although no City officials were at either of the two MLPA meetings, according to the Thomas Concrete officials the City’s position is that their proposed plant requires “heavy industrial” I-2 zoning.

Thomas Concrete is arguing that the Zoning Code for I-1 does not disallow a concrete mixing plant. This zoning classification in the code specifically disallows a cement plant, which they argue is a much different type of plant.

There was considerable discussion at both MLPA meetings during and after presentations by Thomas Concrete and by a representative of nearby business owners/occupants who oppose the construction of such a plant.

Zoning Committee: Several motions failed to pass.
Board meeting: MLPA Board voted 10-0-2 to support the City of Atlanta’s NOT granting a building permit to Thomas Concrete to construct a concrete mixing plan on this site for a number of reasons:

The proposed plant is heavy industry, not light industry – regardless of the zoning code wording or interpretation thereof.
This type of business is not in the general “mixed use” commercial/residential zoning pattern arising out of a
decade long Cheshire Bridge corridor planning effort led by the Cheshire Bridge task force made up of area business owners and residents.
Heavy concrete mixer truck traffic on and around neighborhood streets, which are narrower and are not constructed to withstand the steady use by such heavy vehicles and their loads of concrete.
Concerns that concrete trucks will inevitably spill concrete onto City streets without cleaning up such spills.
Concerns about building such a plant in a flood plain area given environmental concerns about mixing industrial chemicals with rainwater run off – again given the future pattern of mixed use zoning in this general area.
Concerns about concrete dust containment given observations of similar concrete plants nearby which are caked in dust – again given the future pattern of mixed use zoning in this general area.
Concerns about plant operating hours given the intentions stated by a company official to pour concrete during “over night” hours to avoid traffic delays on congested roads in the metro Atlanta area.

V-03-239 1283 Pasadena Applicant/owners: Daniel Moffet & Matthew Bobar. Seeking to erect a deck and construct a garage. Variance requests:

1) Left side yard setback reduced from 7' to 3' to erect a deck
2) Right side yard set back reduced from 7' to 2' for construction of garage
3) Rear yard set back reduced from 15' to 2' for construction of garage
No impact on trees. Garage built back on existing pad.

Zoning Committee: Approved 8-0-0 with conditions – 16’ max height, 60 amp electrical service, hose big plumbing and per drawing attached to application dated 8/23/04 and along with a signature of the owner of lot #12. Board: Approved 12-0-0 with same conditions.

V-04-258 1070 McGlynn Avenue Applicant/owners: Laura Glass. October 11, 2004 MLPA Board Meeting Minutesariance requests as follows:
1) Front yard setback reduced from 35' to 30' for second story addition
2) East side yard setback reduced from 7' to 5'

Board vote: 8-1-0 Conditional approval pending*
*Letter similar in form and content to letters sent by city to notify surrounding neighbors of 9/20/04 NPU meeting and 10/1/04 BZA hearing date regarding variance request.

*Revised letters signed by neighbors indicating their approval of granting zoning variances – not simply approving remodeling plans.

*Site visit by MLPA zoning chair to confirm that the variance requests, especially that of the front yard setback, is consistent with the spirit of the surrounding neighborhood.

Meeting adjourned 10:15.

August 9, 2004 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes

Board and committee members present: Norman McKay, Alan Perry, Mike Carew, Barbara Feinberg, Bill Ellis, Christine Hung, Shira Kash, Barry Berlin, Sue Drake, Charlotte Gillis, Karen Schaefer, Daniel Cherrix, Chip Bowden, Mitzi Rothman, Trav Carter & Sarah Nunn.

Approval of Minutes: A motion to approve the July 2004 minutes passed unanimously.

Presentations:

Atlanta Botanical Garden (ABG) Parking Proposal : Mary Pat Matheson, Executive Director

The Chihuly exhibit has attracted 300,000 visitors 25% of whom have used the ABG shuttle system and 75% of whom have parked in neighboring Ansley Park and elsewhere. ABG expects to double attendance over the next few years to more than 400,000 and proposes exchanging one acre of Piedmont Park (on the western side of Piedmont Park and adjacent to ABG) for the 3.3 forested acres of ABG’s Storza Woods property. The 800 car parking deck would be built into the hillside and screened with berms and 25 foot trees. ABG would raise funds for construction of the facility, but would share the parking spaces and parking fee proceeds equally with Piedmont Park Conservancy.

Piedmont Park Conservancy (PPC)

North Woods Reclamation Piedmont Park : Alan Perry, MLPA Vice President

PPC is working with the City of Atlanta and a representative advisory committee to increase usable parkland and improve access to the park. Alan (standing in for MLPA representative Mae Reich) reviewed two proposals. Alternative A incorporates the proposed ABG parking deck and additional 3.3 acres known as Storza Woods. Both Alternative A and B incorporate new pedestrian and vehicle entrances by the West and Halpern sites as well as mixed use proposals to develop play areas, a skateboard park, soccer fields and a bike trail.

Alan took a straw poll in response to North Woods proposals: Alternative A - 11 votes, Alternative B - 1 vote, “Alternative C” (we need a better plan) - 19 votes.

Friends of Piedmont Park (FFP) - Doug Abrahamson

FFP is opposed to the plan by the PPC and the ABG to build a multi-story, above ground parking deck in Piedmont Park. The parking deck is contrary to the Piedmont Park Master Plan and not in the best interest of the Park.

FFP supports improving access to the park by improved mass transit, better pedestrian and bicycle access, using offsite parking decks, better use of existing parking and a trolley system serving the perimeter of the Park. FFP supports incorporating the West Lumber site and the Halpern site into Piedmont Park.

After questions and discussion the board voted - 3 in favor of option A - the ABG proposal, 0 in favor of option B - the PPC proposal, 6 in favor of option C - the FFP proposal with 1 abstention.

The proposed plans will be circulated through the NPU system. There is a public tour of the North Woods property on Wednesday, September 18th at 4:30.

Committee reports:

Security/Public Safety : Mike Carew. The crime activity has been low to moderate. There are problems verifying records of members versus non-members due to absence of membership chair.

Parks : Charlotte Gillis & Karen Schaefer. Request for payment to Trees Atlanta for $3850 for planting of 77 trees in February. This payment is part of the parks budget.

Barbara Baggerman : Water Creek Watershed Alliance. Johnson/Taylor City Park got a $20,000 grant from the Blank Foundation for the upkeep and preservation of the park. The city will hold a meeting in August for neighborhood input.

Schools : Barbara Feinberg. Schools opened today. Morningside has 800 students and the gift wrap sale is in progress. The new buildings at Inman are open and the magazine sale is in progress. Grady construction continues, the portables are used for administration and the kids are in classrooms.

Traffic : Bill Ellis. Highland Area Transit Solutions met with MARTA on 7/22 to present survey results. MARTA committed to considering express service to Midtown station and extending service down Highland toward Inman Park. Scott Smith is MARTA’s new Government and Community Relations manager.

A resident requested an all-way stop at Middlesex and Hillpine and 24/7 permit parking on both sides of street throughout the neighborhood. Janet Kishbaugh, from Anne Fauver’s office, said the city has a block by block permit parking program that requires a petition signed by 70% of block residents. The permit program is currently being re-written. Norman suggested that the resident get involved with the Traffic committee and help follow-up on these issues.

South MLPA : Shira Kash. Five hundred parents are involved in the Parents Group representing 600-700 children. There will be a new board this September.

Treasurer : Christine Hung. Celebration of Summer reports a $489 profit.

Zoning : Trav Carter

The MLPA Zoning Committee had three applications for August:

1. 755 E. Morningside Drive, Jayson Dukes
Variance to reduce half-depth front yard setback from 17 1/2 required to 7.9 feet to allow for an addition to a CONVERTED SINGLE-FAMILY HOUSE FROM AN EXISTING NON-CONFORMING DUPLEX. Unanimous voice vote defer until September since the applicant did not appear.

2. V-04-185 1148 Reeder Circle, Craig Zimring
Variance request for a side yard setback variance from 7 feet to 4.14 feet to allow for an expansion to a single family house. The expansion is up and not expanding the footprint. MLPA Board approves (7-0): for a reduction of the side yard setback to 4 feet per the applicant's statement and the existing footprint of the house does not expand.

3. V-04-192 1183 Reeder Circle, NE, Application of Tim Ward for 4 Variances:

reduce east side yard setback from 7 feet required to 4.3 feet
reduce west side yard setback from 7 feet required to 2.5 feet
reduce rear yard setback from 15 feet required to 1 foot
increase impervious surface from 50% to 54% to allow for a room addition and carport.

MLPA Zoning Committee recommendation was as follows:

Approval of the West side setback from 7 feet required to 2.5 feet. MLPA votes (9-0-0) to defer to NPU for applicant to work out a compromise with neighboring property.
Approval of the rear yard setback from 15 required to 6 feet with the 4 standard conditions on the carport as follows: no more than 60 amp service, one hose bib, and 16 feet in height from top of slab to top of ridge and per footprint of 24x24 as submitted. MLPA votes (8-1-0) to defer to NPU.
Deferral of the variance request to increase lot impervious surface from 50% to 54% so applicant can amend his referral certificate to delete this variance request. (he will not need it as he now intends to meet 50% or less.) Applicant is applying for amended referral certificate. MLPA votes (9-0-0) to defer until applicant has certificate.
4. Deferral of the variance for the east side yard setback so that Applicant and neighbors can meet and have a chance to negotiate a compromise. MLPA votes (9-0-0) to defer.

Meeting adjourned 10:00pm.

July 12, 2004 MLPA Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

Board and Committee members present: Norman McKay, Alan Perry, Susan Drake, Charlotte Gillis, Julian Bene, Daniel Cherrix

Pres. McKay called the meeting to order at approximately 7:35 pm. First order of business was the approval of the minutes for the June 14, 2004 MLPA Board meeting. Corrections to minutes: the ending time for elementary school students is 3:00 ?????????? and correction to zoning action ?????????. Motion to approve the minutes with notation of the foregoing, seconded and passed by unanimous voice vote.

Elected officials recognized. Anne Fauver spoke on upcoming election: very low turnout anticipated for July 20 election. VOTE! Sales tax increase of 1% on ballot as well. Estimated 40% of revenue from sales tax comes from folks living outside Fulton County. Council made sure that all of revenue from sales tax increase will go to water and sewer costs. Even if approved, we won’t see a return until December. Robbie__________ from the Mayor’s office also spoke. Sales tax in effect for only 4 years but may be renewed twice for a maximum of 12 years. 8% rate only in effect until 1% for school capital works expires in 21 months, then back to 7%. Anne also spoke on attempts to change liquor licensing law. Effort is to have changes in place before renewals go out in September. Right now, entity can only be restaurant or nightclub, not bar. So suggestion to have new category with own rules. Requirement that license fee be paid with certified funds and that all fees be collected at the beginning. Other changes included. Temporary license to be issued when ownership of establishment changes while new owner goes through "change" process. Also change in how measuring distances. Question re City’s position that Tree Ordinance does not apply to it and that it does not have to respond to appeal. Anne confident that same number of trees that were cut will be replanted, admittedly not of the same diameter. (More below).

Security/Public Safety: Dianne Olansky reported for Michael Carew who is under the weather. Crime stats appear to be down.

Parks: Charlotte Gillis reported. Status of Wellborne appeal -- good news is that it was deferred with the direction that a current final plan be developed. Bad news is that none of appeal issues were addressed. No new hearing date. Also: Blank Foundation gave WUFG $400,000 which will be spent for acquisition and development of trail system.

Beautification: no report.

Schools: Barbara Fineberg reported. Schools start in 6 weeks. Inman will start on time but Grady may have some classes in portables. Inman teachers won awards. APS students travelled to Washington for events. School starts August 9th.

Special Events: Daniel Cherrix reported. $1288 in "profit" from Celebration of Summer. Approval sought for payments of ????? (notes misplaced)

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported. Major Spillane is back on the job. VHMPA meeting and. Test speed cameras will be used in our neighborhood at unspecified locations.

North MLPA: no report.

South MLPA: no report.

NPU Representative: Julian Bene deferred to NPU President Olansky who reported on large mixed use development taking place near intersection of Lavista and Cheshire Bridge. Technically outside of our neighborhood but will obviously impact ours.

Finance: no report.

Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer will be here later.

Zoning: Tad Christian reported.
V-04-152: 1535 Fordham Court. Application to reduce north side yard setback from 7 feet required to 4 feet to allow for room addition to existing single-family house. Applicant said 3 crepe myrtles and one 4-inch dogwood tree are the only trees that will be affected (within buildable area). Motion to recommend approval as submitted. Passed by unanimous voice vote.

V-04-192: 1183 Reeder Circle. Application for 4 variances: reduce east side yard setback from 7 feet required to 4.3 feet, reduce west side yard setback from 7 feet to 2.5 feet, reduce rear yard setback from 15 feet to 1 foot, and increase impervious surface from 50% to 54% to allow for room addition and carport. Zoning Committee voted 4-0 to defer to August MLPA Zoning Committee. August 3rd, August 9th, and NPU meeting and BZA meeting (Aug. 20th) are all opportunities for affected neighbors to be heard. Motion to defer until August. Passed by unanimous voice vote.

U-04-14: application for Special Use Permit for outdoor seating to be used by Alon’s. Zoning Committee approved application as submitted conditioned that Permit will exist only as long as the Property’s use remains the same as proposed and only as long as the current owner owns the Property. Passed 9-0-0.

Supplemental report by Anne Fauver on City’s tree cutting: City paid recompense before tree-planting plan so City has in effect "overpaid" on recompense.

Treasurer reported on payment of regular bills.

New Business

Julian Bene brought up issue of nonenforcement of ordinances. Problem is that Atlanta code enforcement is not enforcing codes. Only way to stop it is to pull plans at the City and discuss with City Planner, get Enforcement to visit site and then have City issue stop work order. Extensive discussion of how to approach problem. Suggestion that "how to" list be published in newsletter.
Bill Ellis raised issue with respect to authority of Fulton County Sheriff and Chief Deputy to invest millions of County dollars.
Handout passed out for Conservancy North Woods planning process.
Meeting adjourned at @ 9:15 pm.

March 8, 2004 MLPA Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

Board and Committee Members present: Charlotte Gillis, Norman McKay, Ruth Alexander, Mike Carew, Susan Drake, Alan Perry, Dianne Olansky, Bill Ellis, Tad Christian, Joe Giardina

President McKay called the meeting to order at approximately 7:30 pm. Thanked everyone who worked on the Security Patrol pancake breakfast.

Motion to approve the minutes of the February Board meeting. Seconded and passed.
Candidates for Superior Court of Fulton County recognized. James Altman spoke briefly on his litigation experience, running for Judge Philip Etheridge’s seat which he is vacating. Michael Johnson spoke briefly on his prosecutorial experience, running also for same Superior Court seat.

Committee Reports:

Security/Public Safety: Mike Carew reported. No February crime stats available. Does know of a woman accosted on Plymouth and Merton at @ 12:30 pm by a professionally-dressed white male in a vehicle. As soon as more details available, will send out an alert. Zone 2 has put out undercover units in neighborhood to address rising tide of car breakins. Concern now is over identity theft arising from information taken from cars, mailboxes, etc. Pancake breakfast a success: Mike thanked all those who contributed. Estimate of 100-150 attending. Membership down about 53 from this point last year so membership drive continuing. March 27; 10-1:00 Neighborhood Watch Training. Call Zone 2 to register for training. Another Board member commented on 4 people he knows whose cars were broken into and none of them called the police. If car breakin, call the police. Security Patrol is not a substitute. Next meeting of Public Safety Committee, for which new blood is needed, is Thursday April 1, 7:30 pm, at church. At President’s request, Mike sought reimbursement for One-Call expenses of 213.50. Moved, seconded and passed.

Membership: Joelle Spain reported through President. Ads will pay much of cost of directory.

Newsletter: Susan Drake reported that issue is at printers and should be circulated soon.

Parks: Charlotte Gillis reported and thanked the Board for letter of support to the Blank Foundation supporting application of Wildwood Urban Forest Group for the purchase of additional greenspace adjoining the 31 acres already purchased by the City.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. Next CINS meeting is on March 24th, 12 noon at Walden Middle School.

Special Events: President reported that Celebration of Summer is on Friday, May 21st from 5:30-8:30 pm in Sunken Garden Park.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported. Motion made to send letter to Sen. Lewis which would have MLPA support the request of Lindridge Martin Manor neighborhood association for Silent Zone designation of the CSX rail crossing on Lenox Road. The only structural change required for compliance, as we understand it, is for the barrier gates to be increased in length so that the entire roadway is blocked off. Motion passed with one vote in opposition. No word from City on roadway improvements. Dash-mounted radar still in MLPA’s possession and awaiting APD acknowledgement that unit belongs to MLPA and will follow Association should our zone be changed. Bill attended meeting on Feb. 22 of Citizens for Progressive Transit; interested in working with MLPA. Motion made that MLPA join PEDS (Pedestrians Educating Drivers on Safety). Seconded and passed. Question regarding parking on Cumberland. Awaiting word from City as to which side of street would be safest for parking.

NPU: Dianne Olansky asked that someone volunteer to be the timekeeper for Monday’s meeting. President McKay volunteered.

Treasurer’s Report: Ruth Alexander noted that written report circulated. Nothing further to report.

Zoning: Tad Christian reported.

President McKay sought to move one zoning request ahead of time given the "under-the-weather" applicant.
V-04-52: 829 Sherwood Road
Applicant sought variance to reduce rear yard setback from 15 feet to 2'6" and the east yard setback from 7 feet to 2'6" to allow for construction of detached garage addition. Zoning committee approved setbacks with the following conditions: 16 feet maximum height to the top of the ridge, 60 amp electrical service, hose bib plumbing and per the site plans dated 6-6-2003. Letters from 2 of 3 affected neighbors. Motion made to approve per Committee’s conditions. Passed 9-0-0.

V-04-40: 1838 Windemere Drive
Applicant sought variance to reduce south side yard setback from 7 feet to 2 feet to allow for second story addition to single family residence. Motion to approve the south side yard setback with the construction in line with the current structure per the site plans as revised dated 3/8/04 and with the removal of the parking pad in the front yard. Motion passed 8-0-1.

V-04-36: 980 E. Rock Springs
Applicant seeks variance to reduce the rear yard setback from 15 feet to 5 feet to allow for the construction of a detached garage. Also seeks a variance to allow for the accessory building to project in front of the main structure in the ½ depth front yard. Zoning Committee did not receive application from the NPU Zoning representative in time for the zoning committee to hear this application. Architect clarified application: only seeking variance on rear yard setback. President suggested it would be a hardship to applicants to postpone since scheduled to go before the BZA in April. Don’t have letter from affected neighbor yet. Plans to have it before NPU meeting. Questions from Board on affect on trees, impervious surface, lot surface coverage. Motion made to approve rear yard setback from 15 feet to 5 feet to allow for construction of detached garage per site plans dated 2/5/04, conditioned on receipt of letter from West Sussex neighbor, 16 foot maximum height from slab to top of the ridge, 60 amp electrical service, and hose bib plumbing. Passed 9-0-0.

V-04-41: 1745 Homestead Avenue. Applicant sought variance to reduce side yard setback from 7 feet to 3 feet. Existing carport is in disrepair and too small. Wants to tear that down and replace with one-car garage addition on a larger pad. No trees affected. Impervious coverage is well within limits. Question raised regarding creation of parking pad in front yard. Need for larger driveway to get into and out of new garage addition. Motion made to approve reduction in side yard setback for construction of attached garage but not to approve site plan and with condition to bring a letter from affected neighbor. Motion failed 3-4-2. Motion made to approve reduction in side yard setback for construction of attached garage per site plan dated 3/8/04. Motion failed 3-4-2. Further discussion. Motion made to approve side yard setback subject to letter from neighbor. Passed 6-0-2.

Presentation by Tower Beer and Wine on expansion. This is appeal from decision by City administrative official. Plan to expand inside floor space to increase number of products that can be offered. Property is not expanding so "distance" from property line to property line that contains apartment complex is what should control. But Bureau of Buildings has initially ruled that this expansion of location is in fact taking place because business equals location. (Despite the fact that apartment complex moved in after Tower was already present). Lindridge Manor supported expansion; Piedmont Heights declined to support if expansion violated Code. Extensive discussion. Motion made to support expansion of business if City determined to be legal, conditioned upon improvement of parking lot with one tree for every 8 spaces and conditioned upon parking complying with Code. Motion passed 7-1.

V-04-45: 1780 Merton Road. Applicant sought variance to reduce ½ depth front yard setback from 25 feet to 13 feet. Adding garage addition. Letters will be obtained from all neighbors before NPU meeting. Motion to approve with copy of letter before NPU meeting passed 7-0-0.
Anne Fauver recognized and reported. She just came from visiting Fire Station 19 (on Highland Avenue). Neighborhoods around Fire Station 19 support Station more than is true at other stations, according to firemen presently stationed there. Rapport with new Fire Chief is good. City is technologically behind -- fire trucks need GIS system so fastest route to fires easily found. Anne went on two calls and noted problem with figuring out best route. Free smoke detectors (which will be installed) are available from the fire department.
No further business appearing, the meeting was adjourned at 9:35 pm.

New Business: Nominating Committee proposed for MLPA Board 2004/2005: 6 members, of which 3 are current Board members, Barry Berlin, Bill Ellis and Norman McKay; Jodi Mansbach, Connie Morris and Shira Kash. Motion to approve, seconded and passed.

January 9, 2004 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes (draft)

Board and committee members present: Mike Carew, Norman McKay, Ruth Alexander, Susan Drake, Dianne Olansky, Charlotte Gillis, Mae Reich, Joelle Spain, Alan Perry, Karen Schaefer, Bill Ellis, Joe Giardina, Tad Christian, Trav Carter.

Meeting called to order at approximately 7:35 pm. New faces welcomed by President McKay.

Announcements: big Thank you to Daniel Cherrix for Atlanta Symphony quartet presentation and to Karen Schaefer and Charlotte Gillis for overseeing the planting of 75 trees in the neighborhood on a raw Saturday morning recently.

Car hit pole near Smith Park so lights are down and flag is temporarily dark.

Motion to approve the January minutes. Seconded and passed.

Committee reports:

Security/Public Safety: Mike Carew reported. January crime stats: 6 burglaries, 2 grand theft autos, and 19 car breakins. Probably worse than that since has received reports of folks who failed to call 911 to report car breakin so it does not become part of official crime stats. Undercover agents are in the neighborhood. Increased activity and not focused on any one location.

Drug activity on Windemere the subject of a "knock and talk" -- suspect warned. Activity may have discontinued. Suspicious car license tag given to Security Patrol who found belonged to bad guy so arrest warrant issued. Barclay Place drug deal observed; license tag spotted and 3 arrests made that night. 3 arrests were of neighborhood kids. Warrant still out for another neighborhood kid. On lighter side, 2/28 free pancake breakfast in Fellowship Hall for officers and neighborhood. More volunteers needed. 8-10 am on that Saturday;
volunteers needed from 7:30 - 10:30. Postage sought to be reimbursed of $185. Motion made, seconded and passed. Report about other 911 call Friday evening of another drug deal, with license tags, and no apparent response from police department. Neighbors advised to tell 911 that you want to see an officer.

Membership: Joelle Spain reported. Volunteers being followed up from membership and renewal forms. A couple of weeks ago, membership total was about 620 with over 400 MSP members. Directory questions: need to move on graphic designer. Issue about ads in Directory. Question raised about why not publishing every ad that wants to be in there. If directory turns out to be profitable, so much the better. Debate about whether to include them all together or disperse ad pages. Present plan to publish Directory every 2 years but if ad revenue allows it, then no reason not to publish every year.

Newsletter: update through President: issue in production and may be out in 10-14 days.

Parks: Charlotte Gillis reported. Thank you from Aaron Gross's widow for donation to Trees Atlanta. 76 trees actually planted in recent planting. MLPA neighborhood and Trees Atlanta volunteers showed up. Many thanks to all. Improvements to Sunken Garden Park finished. Retaining wall finished and creation of new set of steps on West Sussex Road side.

Tree Ordinance activity: Lake Claire neighbors trying to save trees. Julien and Charlotte very impressed with what that neighborhood is doing to save trees. Mediation process underway with architect for developer. Contacts being made with other neighborhoods for purpose of networking and sharing of information: example being how to go through appeal process. Pres. McKay reported on Piedmont Park North Woods Restoration planning process and the Conservancy's request for appointment of a representative to a representative Advisory Committee which will meet once a month for the next 8 to 12 months. Volunteer popped up.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. Next CINS meeting on 2/25 at 7 pm at Grady High School. Legislative issues to be discussed. Thank-you note from Grady for MLPA donation. CINS memberships only cost $20 for individuals. Grady just received a $25,000 federal grant for 3 years of test score improvement.

Special Events: Daniel reported through President. Has standing group of 10 people working with him on Celebration of Summer and other ideas, including neighborhood yard sale and showing of movie in Sunken Garden Park.

Tour of Homes: no report.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported. Application of 4 neighborhoods to ARC for grant for first phase of traffic calming plan. Package completed last Friday. Still trying to set up meeting with MARTA which should have happened last month. Requests made to City for the 6 items previously reported to Board. PEDS forum on 2/11, this next Wednesday, on pedestrian-friendly zoning. Central Library, 3rd floor, 7:30 pm. MLPA now owns a radar unit
which will be loaned to the APD Zone 2 (MLPA's zone).

North MLPA/Sidewalks: no report.

South MLPA: no report.

NPU Representative: no report from a rep. But Dianne Olansky reported that City Hall East being sought after by many developers. She has meeting with other NPUs to get on the same page about what might be a friendly development to surrounding neighborhoods.

Treasurer's Report: Ruth Alexander reported. Written report for January passed out.

Zoning: Tad Christian reported.

Application number V-03-406: 1282 Avalon Place. Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the north side yard setback from 7 feet (required) to 2 feet to allow for the construction of a detached garage addition. Committee approved motion 6-0 to approve north side yard setback with the following conditions: 16 ft. Maximum height to the top of the ridge, 60 amp electrical service, hose bib plumbing and per the site plans dated 10-8-03. Letters from two neighbors received. Motion made to approve. Seconded and passed unanimously.

New Business:
Discussion about circumvention of spirit of Tree Ordinance with designation of "hazard" tree which means that the Arborist does not have to visit tree. Problem with that is when building permit then goes up a few days later.

Dayna Holbel from pool group that comes out of VHMPA appeared and led discussion regarding neighborhood pool. 4 meetings have taken place already. Some possibilities out there. Email group created for discussion purposes on yahoo.com. Vhmppool@yahoogroups.com. Idea is to acquire something like a couple of acres and to create a privately-owned privately-maintained pool. Creation of survey of needs and desires in neighborhood. Next meeting is at 964 Adair on Monday evening the 16th. Possibility of a link to group on MLPA website.

Oldtown Pizza appeared at MLPA for change of ownership of alcohol license. Should be back with serving beer and wine in the spring. Question re parking spaces and discussion on that topic.

Change of ownership for Top Spice. 1529 Piedmont Avenue. Now not serving any alcohol. Malaysian and Thai food. Licensee is also the chef.

Developers meeting with Zoning chairs for educational and informational purposes prior to moving ahead with projects.

Tad Christian commented on graffitti still present in neighborhood. Number to call to report is 404 330-6190. Code enforcement number. City has same requirement and can fine itself.

Old Business: Revised email/database policy statement presented for approval. Moved to approve, seconded and passed. Set out below.

Meeting adjourned at approximately 9:00 pm.

January12, 2004 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes (draft)

Board and Committee members present: Norman McKay, Dianne Olansky, Charlotte Gillis, Ruth Alexander, Mike Carew, Alan Perry, Susan Drake, Barry Berlin, Karen Schaefer, John Schwartz, Mae Reich, Pat Gardner, Joe Giardina, Martha Porter Hall, Kerry Brown, Tad Christian, Trav Carter, Daniel Cherrix, Bill Ellis.

President McKay called the meeting to order at approximately 7:32 pm. He welcomed everyone and wished everyone a happy new year. First order of business was the approval of December minutes. Moved, seconded and passed.

Anne Fauver recognized. As the result of a stroke of genius by Ansley Park volunteer Sue Olszewski, 3 million dollars obtained for traffic calming because of impacts of 17th Street bridge. Now Ansley Park has obtained initial approval from ARC for a plan that offers to a few neighborhoods 125,000 on a matching basis and that is then matched 4 to 1 by federal funds. Anne has proposed legislation that will give the neighborhood 125,000 from impact fees. But all of those funds can only be used for construction. Another 125,000 still needed for design costs. Ansley is talking about including only 4 other neighborhoods: Morningside could be one of them but the final design is not done. Discussions were had about the potential contributors to help get us this money. Fundraising becomes the issue.

Complaints about people living in Georgia Power-owned house on Lenox Road but checks by Security Patrol officer as well as by GP have not turned up any evidence of trespassing. If anyone seen there, call 911. Question raised regarding Graffitti hotline and why Burger King restaurant not cleaned up yet. Anne agreed to check on it.

Pat Gardner recognized and spoke on upcoming issues at the State Legislature. Budget is big issue but HOPE and tort reform will also be on the plate. January 15th hearing for any Fulton County resident, 6:00 pm (6:30?) to testify about what legislation is needed for the area. The hearing will take place in Room 606 of the Legislative Office Building, 18 Capitol Square, the building across Mitchell Street, just south of the State Capitol. Email pat@patgardner.org for additional information or for comments or questions.

Committee reports:

Motion made to move budget discussions up front. Passed. Ruth Alexander presented proposed budget. Current budget has MLPA spending 54,000 more than what we have coming in, but we have about 80,000 in reserve so MLPA should not go broke. Ruth of the opinion that this year MLPA may actually spend according to the budget and so MLPA will dip into the reserve. Question regarding eating in to the reserve, given that it is healthy to have such a reserve. Spending is discretionary, it was observed, and if MLPA doesn't have the money, then it won't spend it. Motion made to approve MLPA and MSP budgets. Passed 12-0-0.

Security/Public Safety: Mike Carew reported. No crime stats due to the holidays but they will be forthcoming. Unfortunately, burglaries and car breakins continued, despite the lack of statistics. Concern about increasing drug activity in neighborhood and reports of drug selling on Windemere and north on Lenox. Now some calls on Barclay. Tag numbers are being processed. Appeared at Citizens Advisory Committee last week. Police department seems very responsive to heavily developed commercial areas but residential areas play second fiddle. Exploring ideas about getting a miniprecinct in the neighborhood.

Membership: President reported that membership renewal forms coming in well. Motion made to approve postage for annual mailing in amount of 540. Passed.

Newsletter: Martha Hall reported. Committee reports needed. Next issue will be on restaurants in neighborhood and adjacent areas. 80 potential restaurants.

Parks: Karen Schaefer reported. February 7 is next tree planting. Let Karen know of any spots that could use trees. Haygood will be redoing parking lot and will include tree plantings.

Beautification: Kerry Brown reported. Effort to be made to get volunteers to work on greenspaces near their homes. Thanks going out to those already working on spaces.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. Next CINS meeting will be at John Hope Elementary at 7 pm on January 28th. Dr. Hall will speak.

Special Events: Daniel Cherrix reported. 2/2 is next event with 4 members of Symphony putting on concert at Morningside Presbyterian Church. Membership material should be available and a table staffed.

Tour of Homes: no report.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported. To clarify traffic calming plan - it sat dormant for a while but now has caught fire and is moving quickly. Question regarding Sidney Marcus Park and prohibiting parking on one side of the street for the length of the park. City will be asked to determine which would be the safer side. Dianne Olansky reported that on 1/22 from 4-6 is next meeting about Beltline, at Emory School of Public Health.

North MLPA/Sidewalks: no report.

South MLPA: Barry Berlin reported. More bricks going in at Sidney Marcus Park. Kids should return to the park once weather improves.

NPU Rep.: question regarding necessity for replacement of Dianne as NPU Rep. Discussion regarding replacement.

Treasurer's Report: Ruth Alexander reported again. Annual report presented.

Zoning: Tad Christian reported.

607 E. Morningside. Application Number V-03-380. Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the west side yard setback from 7 ft.(required) to 4.8 ft. to allow for the construction of a 2nd story addition. In zoning committee, motion to approve west side yard setback with no portion of the addition to exceed the existing west side yard encroachment and with a condition that the front yard sidewalk be replaced. In zoning committee, passed 8-0-0. Footprint of house is not being changed. Letters of approval presented from neighbors. Motion made to approve per action of zoning committee, seconded and passed 8-0-2.

New business. Discussion of proposed addition of policy statement on use of MLPA database, email and email addresses. Motion made to approve policy, seconded and passed. (Policy attached to end of minutes). Mae and perhaps others will work on condensing the policy to make it more concise for inclusion in the policy sheet. Policy approved with understanding that a more concise version will be presented at next month's meeting for formal inclusion.

Mambo's, Horizon and Oldtown Pizza cited for serving liquor to underage undercover agent. Hearings taking place. Request made for Board to send letter to License Review Board stating that restaurants have been good neighbors and that we want to see them continue in the neighborhood. Suggestion that we send a "condolence" letter to the businesses for their use as they see fit. Motion made to send such a letter, contingent upon the approval of the text by the board, passed with one abstention.

Old business: Georgia Power will return in March to give us an update about the potential substation. Meeting adjourned at 9:15 pm.

Question from the secretary/email person: have you renewed your membership? Next month, these minutes will likely only go to those who have!

Policy referred to in minutes: MORNINGSIDE LENOX PARK ASSOCIATION POLICY ON USE OF THE DATABASE, EMAIL, AND EMAIL ADDRESSES

MLPA maintains a database of member addresses, telephone numbers, email addresses and other pertinent information. This information is obtained from membership forms completed by members upon joining MLPA or renewing their membership. MLPA recognizes the benefits of both maintaining this database and email communications by its Board with MLPA members. The purpose of this policy statement is to put in written form certain understandings and limitations for the use of the database, particularly email addresses.

The MLPA database is a valuable Association resource. Its integrity is essential to the workings of MLPA. The MLPA Membership Committee is charged with the responsibility of maintaining the accuracy of the database. The official copy of the database resides with the Membership Committee Chair or the Chair's designee. Copies of the database should never be provided to anyone outside of MLPA. Within MLPA, certain persons, including the President and the Public Safety/Security Patrol Chair, are periodically provided with updated copies of the membership database. The MLPA database is not available for commercial use or for any non-MLPA use unless specifically approved by the MLPA Board and/or the Executive Committee.

Membership-wide email communications must be approved, except in extraordinary circumstances, by both the President and the Board member responsible for the handling of email. MLPA Board and Committee members may use the email addresses and other information from the database as appropriate to their duties in MLPA. These duties never include any commercial or advertising functions for any entity other than MLPA. MLPA is committed to providing information to its members without flooding mailboxes with MLPA emails. The MLPA Board welcomes input from the membership regarding the use of email and this policy.

MLPA undertakes to remove email addresses from its database promptly upon request. Mass email communications are communicated to the membership only on a "bcc" basis so that the email address list is not transmitted to any email recipients.

MLPA members are encouraged to communicate with Board members by email (as well as otherwise) as deemed necessary. Names, street addresses, phone numbers as well as email addresses for all Board members (and their respective responsibilities) can be found in the annual Membership Directory and on the website, www.mlpa.org. General email inquiries to MLPA are forwarded to the appropriate Board member for handling and, as with any volunteer organization, responses are forthcoming when time permits. Emailing Security Patrol vacation requests by MSP members is not appropriate and will not result in coverage.

December 8, 2003 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes (draft)

Board and Committee members present: Mike Carew, Norman McKay, Joelle Spain, Ruth Alexander, Alan Perry, Bill Ellis, Susan Drake, Charlotte Gillis, Dianne Olansky, Joe Giardina, Mae Reich, John Schwartz, Kathy Payne, Tad Christian

President McKay called the meeting to order at @ 7:35 pm.

General announcements first.

Congratulations to Dianne Olansky on her recent election as Chair of NPU-F.
2004 MLPA/MSP membership renewal forms are out -- if using the return envelope, please write in the zip code 31106.
Thanks to Lena Young from City Planning Department for role in getting Georgia Power to complete new sidewalks along Monroe Drive.
Lee Kintzel presented brief update on planning process for the North Woods addition to Piedmont Park. Stakeholders’ meeting most recently: plan presented for discussion. General consensus on some issues. Plan presented for primarily passive greenspace. Discussion of natatorium, soccer field, etc. Issue has arisen about possibility of parking facility that would serve both the Park and the Botanical Gardens. Discussion about wisdom of building such a facility. Mae pointed out Master Plan making reference to parking lot at CSO.

Motion made to approve the November minutes; seconded and passed with one abstention.

Committee Reports:

Security Patrol: Mike Carew reported. 3 car breakins and 5 burglaries in November. Holiday increase in burglaries. 2 burglaries on West Sussex. MSP officer responded to 911 call and dusted for fingerprints. Resident had seen a suspicious person but failed to call 911. Directed patrols around parks during holiday seasons trying to prevent grafitti artists. 1000 new MSP stickers bought for 107.00. Reimbursement moved, seconded and passed. End of the year bonus time for MSP officers. Amounts vary by seniority, per long-standing tradition. From 150 to 50 or 60 bucks. $1850 approved for bonuses for officers.

Membership: Joelle Spain reported. 2004 membership package out. Zip code not absolutely necessary so we should receive. Invoice for printing and mailing (not postage) for $1691.14. Moved for approval, seconded and passed. Need approval for $250 graphic designer work for welcome package. Moved, seconded and passed. Quotation received for 1000: $2500; 2000: $2700; 3000: $2900. Discussion regarding what should be ordered. 3 or 4 day turnaround to print. Discussion regarding where money is coming from.

Newsletter: no report.

Anne Fauver recognized. Thankful for recognition. Reported that bar closing approved for 2:30 am.

Sewers report: Mayor’s proposal changed to include a base rate of 2250 gallons per month. Average increase would be 30% instead of 45%. Motion did not pass. Motion from floor of base rate at 6 ccf; motion passed only 8-7. No financial analysis of substitute proposal. Double downgrade of bond rating as a result. Other possible consequences exist (including holding Council in contempt). Joseph Lowery initially against the Mayor’s proposal but came out with strong letter in support. Question regarding whether 5-year raise in rates could then be followed by rollback. Bill does state that if funding received from outside sources, rates would be lowered. 3 times tried just to get Fulton County to allow referendum on whether to impose sales tax, without success. State legislature efforts failed. Federal lobbying efforts failed. Best chances are for CEOs and other big donors to write potential funding sources. No other major city has done this without State and Federal support. Mayor has until tomorrow night to veto Council proposal. If she does veto the proposal, Anne has hope that a workable plan might be put together to get 8 votes in support. Question regarding whether outside forces trying to force City into receivership. Anne reported that comments received at her office are overwhelmingly against her supporting the Mayor’s proposal (which she plans to continue to do). Some Council members have been rude and unprofessional with the Mayor and Watershed Management staff. Suggestion made for neighborhood Town Hall meeting. Anne does not think that a meeting this month would serve any purpose. Anne thanks those who have kept up with the issue. She trusts the Mayor and Watershed Management and believes that, given the conditions under the federal court Consent Decree, a plan will be put together to spend the money in the most efficient fashion.

Question regarding parking meters going in, especially in front of residences on Virginia Avenue. Council members should receive advance notice but this is not happening. Note that City tax dollars being spent putting in improper parking meters and then removing them. Public Works will enforce parking meters.

Parks: Charlotte Gillis reported. $119.40 for maintenance of Tree Eagle website. Reimbursement moved, seconded and passed. Suggestions sought for placement of trees for winter planting. Communicate with Charlotte or Karen: gillis-brown@mindspring.com and karenschaefer@mindspring.com. Efforts continue on enforcement of Tree Ordinance. Thank you note received from Trees Atlanta and from other neighborhood organizations for contribution recently in honor of Aaron Gross.

Beautification: no report.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. No CINS meeting in December. Next one will have Dr. Hall speaking in January.

Special Events: no report.

Tour of Homes: report through President: if pledges come through, should clear $17,512 from this year's Tour. Two gift certificates given to cochairs from the appreciation of the Board.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported. Highland Corridor workshop last week: designers showed up without plans showing MLPA Traffic Calming plans and previous efforts of Highland Corridor group. Another workshop will be scheduled. Meeting with Sen. Zamarippa and Anne Fauver rescheduled regarding funding of Traffic Calming. Ongoing communication with neighborhood parent organizations. 6 traffic requests to be made of City: 1. Designation of parking on one side of North Rock Springs between traffic circle and Piedmont. 2. Milling on Lenox extended uphill to Wildwood, and in other direction to Wildwood, to alert drivers of hill and curve before they’re on it. 3. Designation of "go straight lane" on North Morningside at North Highland. Some drivers go straight from the right lane, others from the left. 4. Parking solution for residents adjacent to Sidney Marcus Park -- possibly elimination of parking on one side of Cumberland for the length of the park. 5. Re-striping of crosswalk scheme at North Highland/Lenox/Johnson intersection, to provide crossing without having to use island. 6. Placement of pedestrian crossing signs at key intersections of Johnson.

Money has been in budget for 2 years for purchase of laser guns for enforcement of speeding laws. Discussion regarding how many and whether we hold on to them. Motion made to approve purchase of one dash-mounted radar gun ($1800) which will allow enforcement in more locations. Radar gun will belong to Association and be loaned to police. Seconded and passed. $120 needed for payment to Kinkos for 11 more traffic calming booklets. Seconded and passed. Enforcement stats for October: speeding 147, other 42; November: speeding 118, other 31. Enforcement efforts described as weak.

North MLPA/Sidewalks: Kathy Payne reported. One reimbursed and a couple pending.

South MLPA: no report.

NPU Representative: announcement about development of Sears Building (City Hall East) meeting that Dianne Olansky will attend.

Treasurer’s Report: Ruth Alexander reported. If budget request will take more than 3 minutes, or you won’t be at meeting, email it to everyone before the budget meeting on 1/12. Approval sought for payment of 2379.34 for Tour expenses. Seconded and passed. Approval sought for 360.19 for additional Tour expenses. Seconded and passed. Approval sought for 242.95 for post-Tour party expenses. Seconded and passed. Approval sought for President for 215.42 to reimburse President for other Tour expenses. Seconded and passed.

Zoning: Tad Christian reported.

V-03-309: 830 Yorkshire Road. Applicant seeks a variance to reduce east side yard setback from 7 to 1 foot, exceed the maximum allowable floor area of detached structure from 30% to 33%, exceed the maximum allowed rear lot coverage from 25% to 40% and exceed the maximum lot coverage from 50% to 57% to allow for a detached garage addition. Building 2 car garage where one car garage stood. Removing existing construction and replacing it. All work from here on out will be above grade. Now going to be a one-story garage. Maximum allowed rear lot coverage variance no longer needed. Extensive discussion regarding numerous issues arising from this property whose application had been deferred from last month’s meeting. Affected neighbors approved of current application with one, present, in opposition. Zoning committee had approved east side yard setback and maximum allowable rear lot coverage and as set out in variance application of a detached structure with the garage foot print not to exceed 23 by 22 feet, 16 foot height maximum height from slab to top of ridge, 60 amp electrical service, hose bib plumbing, with gutters and downspouts attached to direct waterflow away from rear property and per the site plans dated 12-02-2003. Motion made to approve per Committee; seconded. Motion failed on a vote of 4 in favor, 4 opposed and 4 abstaining. No additional motions made in connection with the application.

V-03-320: 1275 Beech Valley Road. Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the east side yard setback from 7 feet to 3 feet 6 inches to allow for an addition to single family house. Tad observed that most homes in Va-Highlands and Morningside are built within the 7 foot setback so if any improvements are made to a home, there is a need to obtain a variance. Committee approved motion to approve east side yard setback per the site plans dated 8-29-03. Motion made to approve per committee action; passed 11-0-1.

V-03-337: 1846 Wellborne Drive. Applicant seeks a variance to reduce side yard setback from 10 feet to 5 feet to allow for second story addition to single family house. Zoning committee approved motion to approve side yard setback as long as the applicant is not increasing the existing side yard encroachments and the structure is built on the existing side yard foundation per the site plans dated 8-7-2003. Should the current structure be torn down, the required setbacks should revert to the current code. Motion made to approve per committee action but variance also conditioned upon elevation plans dated 8-25-2003. Passed 10-0-0.

V-03-350: 1727 Johnson Road. Applicant seeks a variance to reduce south side yard setback from 7 feet to 0 feet to allow for a detached garage. Zoning committee made motion to approve side yard setback from 7 feet to 2 feet with the garage footprint not to exceed 22 by 24 feet, 16 foot maximum height, 60 amp electrical service, hose bib plumbing, with a guttering system to divert water from neighbor’s property and per the site plans dated 12-2-03. Question regarding impact on existing tree. Applicant encouraged to protect drip line of tree (even though on neighbor’s property) by measuring from circumference of branches around and putting up fencing to keep contractors from loading up concrete, tools, etc. against tree. Motion made to approve per committee action; passed 9-0-0.

V-03-359: 1274 N. Morningside Drive. Applicant seeks variance to reduce the west side yard setback from 7 feet to 1.8 feet to allow for a second story and covered deck addition to a single-family house. Zoning committee voted to approve west side yard setback per the site plans dated 8-25-03 and to deny the front yard setback from 30 to 29. 2 out of 4 letters obtained from neighbors. Motion made to approve per committee action with the addition of the denial of the amended request for a front yard setback; passed 9-0-0.

Old business: extensive discussion on action by Board at last month’s meeting to approve sending of letter to seller of home in neighborhood that is advertising an illegal duplex. Motion made to reverse last month's action. Motion passed 8-0-2.

Meeting adjourned at @ 10:20 pm.

November 10, 2003 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes (draft)

MLPA Board and Committee members present: Norman McKay, Dianne Olansky, Charlotte Gillis, Martha Porter Hall, Susan Drake, Alan Perry, Mike Carew, Joe Giardina, Tad Christian, Kerry Brown, Kathy Payne, Bill Ellis, Van Hall, Trav Carter, John Schwartz.

President McKay called the meeting to order at @ 7:35 pm.

Announcements: Aaron Gross passed away on Saturday and graveside services were held earlier today. Motion made to donate $500 from Parks budget to Trees Atlanta in honor of Aaron Gross. Passed.

Tour of Homes numbers coming in next month. Congratulations to Tour cochairs (who were given the night off). Dianne Olansky running for chair of NPU-F.

Next order of business was the approval of minutes for the October meeting. Additional copies of minutes available to Board. Motion made for approval, seconded and passed.

Senator Sam Zamarippa recognized. Commented on admiration he had for Aaron Gross. Regrets position of State on City's need for help with sewer rate increases. Sees his role as helping Mayor find funding. Question from resident regarding lack of state funding for MARTA (only major public transportation system in country not having any state funding). This will not change in near future, according to the senator.

Committee reports:

Security/Public Safety: Mike Carew reported. October crime stats: 7 reported car breakins, 4 burglaries, 3 grand theft auto and 1 other crime. Seasonal increase in burglaries and continued problems with car breakins. Red flat-bed tow truck seen at night picking up cars, claiming "repo" status. If you see such a truck, call 911. (Truck has number "5" on it without a company name). Public Safety pages on MLPA website redesigned. Terry Kearns thanked for help as well as Dianne Olansky and Mike's wife, Donna Laux. Tad and Dianne thanked for help with security alerts from surrounding neighborhoods. Community Lost and Found new service as part of redesigned website. Peak times for car breakins seems to be late at night. Don't be surprised if Security Patrol officers and/or APD officers stop you if you're out late at night. President commented on efforts by Mike and his need for additional help on his committee.

Membership: no report.

Newsletter: Martha Hall reported. 1000 extra copies of Tour of Homes newsletter available during Tour. Total bill $3652.90 moved for approval, seconded and passed.

Parks: Charlotte Gillis reported. Lighting installed at Sunken Garden Park. Efforts to combat erosion coming soon. Hagood Church will be implementing a parking lot plan with trees. Parks Committee will help Church pay for trees. WUFG will be holding a "privet pull" this Saturday
from 9-11. On the subject of easements, the owners of the Moody Bible parcel near WUF are willing to talk to the City about an access easement. But the owners of the 2 Beers parcels are not interested. Jefferson Pilot is interested in the subject but their parcel is landlocked and hard to see
how to get to it.

Charlotte explored issue with Zoning Committee on how "tree issues" are dealt with in zoning process. Issue arose as a result of Va-Highlands situation where misleading information given by applicant with respect to lack of tree involvement. Zoning co-chair Tad Christian confirmed that he walked the properties coming in for variances. No tree survey is done. For applicant to get building permit, he/she must see City Arborist. But applicants don¹t always put tree locations on application.

Zoning committee meets first Tuesday of every month. Results emailed to Board before meeting.

Charlotte reported on great meeting with her cochair Karen Schaefer and Cathy Woolard about potential administrative changes at City and movement of Arborist positions. Julien Bene recognized for his efforts. Problems with Morningside experiencing greater tree loss than any other area in City.

Beautification: Kerry Brown reported. New sponsor obtained for open greenspace area. Committee trying to be more specific with respect to expectations for sponsors. Budget for regular summer mowing and winter cleanups around 1500. Sunken Garden Park not included in this plan City should be doing that.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. Next CINS meeting is 11/19 at noon for lunch at Centennial Place elementary school on the APS budget process. Grady student won State cross-country; school itself finished 4th in both girls and boys. Grady also with great percentage of students becoming Hope scholars.

Tour of Homes: report postponed until next month.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported. Thanks to Anne Fauver, we finally received City's response to Traffic Calming plan. Now need to address comments. No October enforcement stats yet. Bill and Dianne Olansky had good MARTA meeting on 11/6. Trying to help MARTA to serve neighborhood other than by providing rides either downtown or for those who have no other choice. Meeting later in the month (11/24) with Sam Zamarippa and Tom Weyandt of Atlanta Regional Commission about ways to obtain funding for implementation of Traffic Calming Study.

North MLPA/Sidewalks: Kathy Payne reported. Sidewalk repair slow, only one in last 30 days.

NPU Rep: both present, no report except for upcoming elections.

Treasurer: no oral report but written report available. Board urged to reserve 1/11/04 Budget meeting, 2-4, at McKay residence.

Zoning: Tad Christian reported. David Garr recognized (although not present) and thanked for attendance at BZA hearing last Friday afternoon. But for his presentation of MLPA¹s position, one or more of applicants whose applications were rejected at last month¹s MLPA meeting might have received variances, including one who misrepresented MLPA vote. Importance of integrity of zoning applicants.

Reminder to report graffiti on hot line: 404 330-6190. Owner must then fix problem or reimburse when City does it.

Application V-03-208: 1112 Zimmer Drive. Applicant seeks a variance to reduce west side yard setback from 7 feet to 2.5 feet to allow for addition to single family house. Neighbors have given signatures. Committee voted 5-0 for approval, with no portion of addition to be less than 4.8 feet from the property line, no new window on the west elevation in the encroached area, and per the site plans dated 7/02/03. Motion made to approve with same conditions, seconded and passed 10-0-0.

Application V-03-305: 1737 North Pelham Road. Applicants seek a variance to reduce side yard setback from 7 feet to 2 feet to allow for construction of detached one story garage. Committee voted 5-0 to approve, with garage footprint not to exceed 22 x 24, 16 foot maximum height, 60 amp electrical service, hose bib plumbing and per the site plans dated 9/19/03. Question raised about tree impact. Neighbor¹s oak tree: possible impact. Private arborist made suggestions about ways to alleviate impact of construction on tree. Applicant also sought to place cupola (26 inches high) on top of garage. Motion made to approve, with same conditions as per Zoning Committee, plus the first three recommendations from the private arborist: 1. Oak to be fertilized with deep root injection fertilizer and inoculated with mycorrhizal bio-stimulants before any foundation excavation occurs; 2. Any roots over 1 inch in diameter uncovered during construction should be cleanly cut by hand rather than caught and pulled by machinery. 3. No trenching, digging, planting, compaction, or other root disturbance in remaining root zone until one growing season after foundation excavated, and allowance of cupola, seconded and passed 10-0-0.

Application V-03-309: 830 Yorkshire Road. Applicant asked for deferral until next month. Situation involves building of garage under variance previously obtained; building not in conformance with variance; stop work order obtained; architect may be at fault. Research needs to be done on terms of earlier variance. Present variance is for reduction of east side yard setback from 7 feet to 1 foot, to exceed maximum allowable floor area of detached structure from 30% of main structure to 33%, exceed maximum allowed rear lot coverage from 25% to 40%, and exceed maximum lot coverage from 50% to 57% to allow for detached garage addition. Applicant not present. Committee had voted 5-0 to defer application. Neighbor spoke against deferral, wanted process over. Extensive discussion. Motion to deny application for variance made, seconded but failed 4-4-1. Motion made to follow recommendation of Committee and defer application one month, seconded, and passed 5-4-0.

Application V-03-312: 1230 Monroe Drive. Applicant sought variance to reduce side yard setback from 7 to 6 feet and to reduce half depth front yard from 17.5 feet to 5.2 feet to allow for addition to single family house. Applicant is converting duplex to single family house. One signature from neighbor obtained; still need other signature. Committee had voted 5-0 to approve per application as submitted and per the site plans dated 9/24/03. Motion made to approve, conditioned as commended by Committee and upon applicant receiving approval from other neighbor, seconded and passed 9-0-0.

New Business:
The Zoning Cochairs proposed that MLPA send a letter to the owner and listing agent for a house in the neighborhood that was believed to contain an illegal apartment, requesting that any buyer be informed of this nonconforming use. Extensive discussion. Suggestion made that a redacted copy of the letter be sent to all realtors doing business in the neighborhood and that an article appear on the subject in the next newsletter. Motion made, seconded and passed 9-0 that the letter be sent.

Lee Kintzell reported on the "Stakeholders Committee" formed to discuss the issue of the "North Woods" project from the perspective of all persons and groups that might be affected by any development of this City-owned 80-acre tract north of Piedmont Park and roughly east of the Botanical Gardens. Interested persons include reps from NPU-F and E, Norfolk Southern (who has a right of way running through the land), Georgia Power, wastewater treatment folks, neighborhood associations, parent groups, etc. Addition of this tract would almost double size of Piedmont Park.
Suggestions made have included more playground area, rambles, a meadow, biking trails, Cathy Woolard¹s "Beltline" light rail idea, and a parking deck. Challenges include the CSO nearby (and the attendant runoff), the railroad right of way, transients camping in these woods, and who would pay
for whatever happens. The idea of a parking deck may involve as many as 1000 vehicle spaces and would serve both the Park and the Botanical Gardens.

Lee solicited input from the neighborhood and interested persons should email her directly at kintzellee@aol.com.

Representatives of an already-established wine store/restaurant located in Vinings called The Grape then spoke. They have applied for a wine package store (retail) and wine bar/restaurant alcohol license from the City for the Belvedere at 560 Dutch Valley Road. Plan is to open in May, at the same time that some 20 indoor parking spaces would be available from "Belvedere 2." Messrs. Major and Pendleton introduced as principals of operation. Spoke of focus of store and restaurant: wine would be the only alcohol served. Focus on unique but affordable wines. Only two distributors to deliver to location. Hours of retail store 10-9 Monday-Saturday; restaurant, 5-11 pm Monday-Thursday; noon-midnight or 1 am Friday & Saturday. Only required to have 34 parking spaces; has 30 that store owns and will be leasing the additional 20. 8 employees maximum will be present at any one time. 600 square foot retail store and 1500 square foot restaurant with approximate seating capacity of 50-60. Principal spoke of reputation of Vinings location as "good corporate citizen."

Representative of 12-step recovery program working out of 585 Dutch Valley Road appeared not in opposition but to make a plea that the parking requirements be enforced. Program has had difficulties with valet parking with other businesses on that street.

President McKay thanked everyone for attending and adjourned the meeting at approximately 10:20 pm.

October 13, 2003 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes (draft)

Board and committee members present: Norman McKay, Dianne Olansky, Mae Reich, Joelle Spain, Alan Perry, Bill Ellis, Susan Drake, Barry Berlin, Mike Carew, Ruth Alexander, Charlotte Gillis, Joe Giardina, Stephanie Marinac, Tad Christian, Trav Carter

Meeting called to order at @ 7:35 pm by President McKay.

Announcements: 10/20 NPU meeting: Belvedere applicant on Dutch Valley seeking liquor license. First order of business was the approval of the minutes for the September 8, 2003 Board meeting. Moved for approval; seconded and passed.

Committee reports

Security Patrol: Mike Carew reported. No September crime statistics to report. Email snafu. Officer Stapler arrested thief of drycleaning riding away on bicycle. Mike communicated appreciation of Board to Officer Stapler. Now computerized system in place to transmit vacation security reports to Security Patrol members. $111 sought to be reimbursed for mailing of such reports. Motion made, seconded and passed. Report of inquiries and requests for increased security, from non-Security Patrol members and even from non-members of Association. The way to increase security for the neighborhood is to get more neighbors to join the Security Patrol. That would enable greater coverage in terms of patrols. Discussion of insurance issues. Discussion of membership issues and what businesses want and might expect from MLPA membership. Letter handed out expressing views of Traffic Committee and Public Safety Committee for further discussion.

Anne Fauver recognized. Board urged to stay away from her since she was in the sewer today (visiting the Nancy Creek tunnel). Mayor emphasized need to obtain federal funding for sewer improvements. Right now there are no federal funds coming. Sewer rate increases scheduled are based upon our not receiving any state or federal funds. Membership urged to contact state and national legislators about need for funds. Traffic plan has been before BTS for 2 years, according to Dianne Olansky. Anne agreed to check on it. Two residents on Wildwood Place complained about very large pothole that was supposed to be repaired. Anne agreed to check on it.

Membership: Joelle Spain reported. Nothing but good news to report. We are above 2002 member numbers of 906. Still room for improvement. Work continues on welcome package. Walking map to be included. Anything that anyone wants included should be sent to Joelle right away. Suggestion made to blanket the neighborhood. Also suggestion to get 5000 instead of 1000 if price breaks are right. 2004 membership package almost ready to go to printers. Extensive discussion about raising rates, including the way that the neighborhood benefits from the Security Patrol.

Newsletter: no report.

Parks: Charlotte Gillis reported. 10/18 tree sale at Piedmont Park. Sunken Garden Park: committee trying to work with City about erosion and dumping of yard trash in park. Battle with City on arborist positions continuing. Efforts made to expedite the taking down of hazard trees. No monies available to hire another crew. No update on Georgia Power. Fountain to be installed soon at Sidney Marcus Park.

Beautification: report made through President. New recruits for some of smaller common areas obtained by Committee for grass cutting and general beautification.

Schools: Joe Giardina: 10/22 meeting at CINS about what it means to "leave no child behind." Requests from Grady and Inman for MLPA contribution. Motion made to donate $1000 to Grady PTA (to be used for travel by student clubs, teams, etc.). Similar request made to donate $1000 to Inman Middle School. Funds already set aside in budget. Both motions made and passed.

Tour of Homes: Stephanie Marinac reported. November 8th and 9th. Chefs from several local well known restaurants will be featured on the tour. Email blast will be sent to seek a few House Captains and volunteers to staff the houses. Posters will go up soon. Tickets also available soon. Difficulty with corporate sponsorships this year.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported. Funding efforts continue with respect to traffic plan. Letters to be sent by elected representatives seeking funds. The Traffic Calming Plan is a concept plan, not an engineering plan. Any implementation plan must first have a concept plan. September saw 150 speeding tickets and 25 other moving violations. Crosswalk on Sussex and E. Rock Springs courtesy of PEDS. One of a few experimental crosswalks. Discussion regarding need for crosswalks or limiting street parking on Cumberland.

South MLPA: Barry Berlin reported. He introduced Dawn Davis and Christa Martin. Thanked the Board for contribution of 5000 for what turned out to be an extremely successful project at Sidney Marcus Park. Perhaps as much as 150,000 spent on park, 85,000 of which came from private fundraising. Ongoing maintenance efforts reported on by Christa. Volunteers will contine with certain maintenance activities at park. Group asking to be considered for funds for ongoing expenses of park. Suggestion re placement of placque. Board asked to consider wording and whether to name individuals who helped with renovation.

NPU Rep: Dianne Olansky reported. NPU elections to be held over the next 2 months.

Treasurer’s report: Ruth Alexander handed out written reports. Motion made to pay Morningside Presbyterian $1400 for use of space in church. Already allocated in budget. Passed.

Seth Green allowed to go out of order (before lengthy Zoning issues) to present his Eagle Scout project. 50-hour community service project presented: painting of addresses on streets. Merton/Plymouth/Mifflin/E.Sussex as a starting point. Seeking approval of MLPA as sponsoring organization. Question re type of paint to be used. Motion made to approve project, seconded and passed unanimously.

Zoning: Tad Christian reported. Each applicant to be given 5 minutes and then time for questions.

V-03-211: 1264 N. Morningside Drive Applicant seeks a variance to reduce the front yard setback from 35 feet to 30 feet to allow for existing porch to be enclosed. Opposition is that encroachment should not be allowed into front yards and in effect creating a bedroom. Applicant’s position is that you’re not changing the footprint of the porch, just enclosing the porch. Other houses on the street have less of a front yard setback than 30 feet, according to applicant. Extensive discussion regarding enclosure and whether facts were as represented. Motion made to deny application for variance as submitted, as was voted at the zoning committee (8-0). 9 in favor of motion; none opposed; 3 abstaining. Motion made to approve variance application on condition that residence be transformed from nonconforming (duplex) use to single family residential conforming use. 3 in favor of motion; 7 opposed; none abstaining. Motion made then to deny the special exception to expand a legal nonconforming use (duplex). 8 in favor of motion; 0 opposed; 3 abstaining.

V-03-271: 1433 N. Morningside St. Applicant seeks variance to reduce front yard setback from 35 feet to 28 feet and reduce west side yard setback from 7 feet to 3 feet to allow for addition to single family residence. Applicant revised plans to address what he saw as principal objections raised by Zoning Committee: no encroachment of living space into setbacks. Extensive discussion of revised plans and whether there was any need for a variance any more. Motion made to deny application as submitted, as zoning committee did. Motion passed 10-0-1. Board member Mae Reich offered statement of reason for denial, in her view, was that variance no longer required.

V-03-277: 1346 Northview Avenue.
Applicant seeks a variance to reduce side yard setback from 7 feet to 5 feet for addition of outside stairs to second floor of a single family residence. Letters of approval from neighbors. Side yard staircase hiding "industrial" side of house. Extensive discussion, including fact that outside stairs makes a rental apartment more likely. Applicant denied any intent in this regard; zoning committee member noted that variance ran with the property. Motion made to deny the variance as submitted. Motion passed 7-3-2 (as it had in the zoning committee 8-0).

New Business: Secretary recognized and urged Board members and committee members not to see minutes as way of communicating time-sensitive information to membership. Only implicit obligation upon Secretary is to have minutes prepared in time for next meeting of Board. Also, Secretary raised issue of what "discount" opportunities should be communicated to membership via email, such as discounted theater tickets. Problem weighing benefits to membership versus burden of receiving email (and being used as advertising avenue).

Meeting adjourned at approximately 10:20 pm.

Next meeting Monday Nov. 10th, 7:30 pm Morningside Presbyterian Church

September 8, 2003 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes (draft)

Board and committee members in attendance: Norman McKay, Ruth Alexander, Mike Carew, Trav Carter, Tad Christian, Bill Ellis, Joe Giardina, Martha Porter Hall, Van Hall, Dianne Olansky, Mae Reich, Karen Schaefer, Charla Silvia, Joelle Spain, Susan Drake, John Neel.

Call to Order: President McKay called the meeting to order at 7:34 p.m.

Approval of August 11, 2003 Minutes: Motion was made to recommend approval. The motion was passed unanimously.

Reports from elected officials: Councilmember Anne Fauver reported that her next project will be to address the issue of collection of funds owed to the City. She specifically mentioned the City of East Point, which owes Atlanta more than $17,000,000 in water bills. Councilmember Fauver, a member of the City's Finance committee, plans to proceed quietly, but if she has to, she'll go to the press. In response to a question, she stated that interest on unpaid bills is 12% annually.

Committee Reports:

Security Patrol - Mike Carew reported the following crime statistics: Auto break-ins - 5; auto theft - 1; burglary - 1, on Plymouth Road on 8/30/03. Mike read a letter from a resident in appreciation for a job done by Officer Stapler. Officer Stapler located a truck that had been stolen from a resident and apprehended the alleged thief. Dianne Olansky, Bill Ellis and Mike attended an Atlanta Police Department focus group.

Membership - Joelle Spain said that we are exploring the possibility of developing a procedure for on-line membership renewals. Several attendees expressed support. A motion was made to pursue implementation of electronic transactions. The motion was seconded and passed. Joelle is continuing to work on recruiting new residents for membership. Karen Schaefer and Martha Porter Hall will set up a membership table at the opening ceremony for Sidney Marcus Park on Saturday, September 13.

Newsletter - Van Hall submitted for approval an invoice in the amount of $3,916.74 from Austin Printing for the summer MLPA Newsletter. Payment was approved. Syd Janney has contacted Van to suggest that we give copies of the I-485 issue to the Social Studies teacher at Morningside Elementary School.

Parks - Karen Schaefer stated that the dedication of Sidney Marcus Park renovation will be Saturday, September 13, 2003, and that MLPA members are invited. She is continuing to inform residents about tree protection. Joe Giardina stated that the Marcus Park improvements have resulted in congested parking on Cumberland and asked that the Marcus Park committee point this out to their participants. Mae Reich asked that MLPA take responsibility for maintaining the traffic circle at the end of Wildwood Place (Wildwood Triangle) since the resident who had initially worked on it has moved.

Beautification - no report.

Schools - Joe Giardina provided a schedule of CINS meetings for the current school year. He stated that Inman Middle School has submitted a request for a contribution from MLPA but the request did not specify an amount. Joe will ask them to resubmit the request with an amount specified. Dianne Olansky stated that PEDS is encouraging students at Morningside to walk to school on Fridays and asked that everyone be especially vigilant.

Special Events - President McKay reported that Senator Sam Zamarripa is sponsoring a Town Hall meeting at Inman Middle School on Monday, September 29 at 7:30 p.m.

Tour of Homes - Tour Co-Chair Charla Silvia stated that the tour dates have been moved to November 8 and 9. They have decided on five homes and plan to add at least one more. She is asking for volunteers, especially Home Captains. Anyone interested is asked to contact her at coja@comcast.net.

Traffic - Bill Ellis reported that there will be a citywide slowdown on Thursday, September 18 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.

North MLPA/Sidewalks - No report.

NPU representative - Dianne Olansky stated that there is ongoing discussion about moving the Morningside neighborhood from Atlanta Police Department Zone 2 to Zone 6.

Treasurer's Report - Ruth Alexander distributed her report. Ruth is discussing with our insurance company coverage for the Tour of Homes. A motion was made to approve expenditure of up to $1,000 for special event coverage for the tour. The motion was approved.

Zoning - Co-chair Trav Carter reported.

V-03-208, Stuart Hoffman, 1112 Zimmer Drive Zoning committee recommended deferral to October. The Board voted to support the committee's recommendation.

V-03-211, Francis President, 1264 N. Morningside Drive Zoning committee recommended deferral to October. The Board voted to support the committee's recommendation.

V-03-236, Larry Pett, 1715 Merton Road Applicant seeks to reduce rear yard setback and side yard setback to allow for construction of a detached garage. Zoning committee recommended approval conditioned on the site plan presented, dated 9/2/03; garage limited to 60 amps electrical service; plumbing limited to a hose bib and no sewer line; height be limited to 16 feet. The Board voted to support the committee's recommendation.

V-03-246, David Houser, 833 E. Morningside Drive Applicant seeks to reduce the west side yard setback from 7 feet (required) to 5.1 feet to allow for an addition to a single family residence. Also increase the impervious lot coverage from the allowed 50% to the current 59.1%. Zoning committee approved reduction of setback to 5.1 feet and the impervious lot coverage of 58.4% as per the site plan dated 8/13/03. The Board voted to support the committee's recommendation.

V-03-247, D.J. Betsill, 923 Plymouth Road Applicant seeks to reduce side yard setback for construction of a detached carport. The board voted to support the committee's recommendation of approval conditioned on the site plan presented, dated 7/29/03; garage limited to 60 amps electrical service; plumbing limited to a hose bib and no sewer line; height be limited to 16 feet.

New Business - Wildwood Gardens - Mickey O'Brien, landscape architect, presented the Master Plan he has produced for the garden. He explained the four sequential steps for the garden, including projected expenses and time considerations. After discussion, Karen Schaefer moved that we vote to support the plan and encourage participants to move forward. The motion was seconded and approved.

Old Business - Councilmember Fauver urged us to attend the City's budget hearings. Anyone who would like to express support for a particular item should contact Lynette Young, Chief Operating Officer for the City, at lwyoung@altantaga.gov; Mayor Shirley Franklin at sfranklin@atlantaga.gov; Rick Anderson at randerson@atlantaga.gov; and/or Renay Blumenthal at rblumenthal@atlantaga.gov.

Adjourn - President McKay adjourned the meeting at 10:05 p.m. (Minutes recorded by acting Secretary Martha Porter Hall for absent Secretary).

Next meeting is Monday, October 13, 7:30 pm.

Announcement
The Piedmont Park Conservancy invites everyone in Morningside Lenox Park to discover why Creative Loafing recently named the park's Off-Leash Area Atlanta’s BEST DOG PARK. Mark your calendar for the following dog park events and join in on the fun and festivities this fall...

Adopt-a-dog Day: Saturday, October 25 – 10am to 4pm. Stop by the Off-Leash Area and meet dogs from 15 metro humane societies and shelters in search of loving homes. Sponsored by Invisible Fence® Brand Pet Containment Systems, adoptees will receive goodies donated by Purina and Invisible Fence. For more information, visit the Invisible Fence website.

Yappy Hour: Thursday, October 30 – 7pm to 9pm. Join us for a Halloween-themed “Yappy Hour” at Piedmont Bark, 501 Amsterdam Avenue (among the outlet shops). Show off your costumed pooch and enjoy unlimited refreshments for just $15, with proceeds benefiting the Off-Leash Area. All owners must show proof of dog vaccinations prior to attendance or at the door. Receive $5 off for pre-registering and avoid the long line at the door! To pre-register, call 404-873-5400 or visit www.piedmontbark.com.

Spotted in Piedmont Park: November 1 – 9am to 11am. Join us for a special book-signing event in the Off-Leash Area with Gregory Edmont, author of “Spotted in France.” Based upon his adventures through France on a Vespa with his Dalmatian (named “J.P.”) the book is a delightful literary journey and the perfect gift for any dog lover. Gregory and J.P. will be on hand to sign copies and answer questions. Continental breakfast will be available (donations appreciated) and a portion of book sales from this event will benefit the Off-Leash Area. Come out and meet this entertaining author, enjoy breakfast goodies and support YOUR Off-Leash Area!

For more information on these and other Piedmont Park events, please visit the Conservancy’s recently updated site (www.piedmontpark.org) or contact PPC staff member Allison Zimroth at 404-875-7275 ext. 233 or azimroth@piedmontpark.org.

August 11, 2003 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes

Board members present: Norman McKay, Susan Drake, Alan Perry, Ruth Alexander, Mae Reich, John Schwartz, Joe Giardina, Mike Carew, Martha Hall, Van Hall, Kathy Payne, Barry Berlin, Kerry Brown, Trav Carter.

Pres. McKay called the meeting to order at @ 7:35 pm. First order of business was the approval of the July minutes. Motion made to approve, seconded and passed.

Beth Crowther from Council President Woolard’s office recognized. Handouts available regarding City Council’s energy-saving measures.

President McKay reported on the public hearings to be held on the City’s 2004 budget, the closest one to us being scheduled for the Civic Center (Piedmont Room) on Wednesday September 3rd from 7-9 pm.

Committee reports:

Security/Public Safety: Mike Carew reported. Increase in July car breakins and reports from 8 different addresses, but representing 15 car breakins. Cars parked on street or in driveway, not in carport or garage. Security Patrol lead officer checking crime reports at least weekly to see if there is a pattern. On one street, 7 cars hit in one night. On third watch (night shift), officers will spend more time patrolling perimeter streets to see if deterrence improves. Will also attempt to coordinate with Zone 2. Reports of house burglaries received in August. Service vehicles pulling up and burglarizing homes in afternoon. Major Spillane still in charge of Zone 2 and we’re still in that Zone.

Membership: report given by Joelle Spain through President. Welcome package is at graphic designer’s. If anyone has material to add, please get it to her.

Newsletter: Van Hall reported. Issue should have been received. Applause from entire Board for excellent issue about efforts of individuals, and MLPA, in stopping I-485. Next newsletter is the Tour of Homes issue and deadline is at the end of the month, not to be extended. Tour of Homes will be the Halls’ last issue.

Parks: Linda Rothermel reported. City has proposed meeting for discussion of plans at Sunken Garden improvements. August 17 at 4:30 pm at Sunken Garden Park. Handout re tree maintenance, contacting arborists, etc. (Attached to Minutes) Barry Berlin gave an update on Sidney Marcus Park. Playscape in place; work still going on at Park. Fund raising was (and continues to be) a success. Dawn Davis commended for work done as Chair. Pres. McKay reported on big tree that fell in Wildwood Gardens park and City is arranging for removal.

Beautification: Kerry Brown reported. Mowing still taking place. New sponsors being explored. Public Works rep. had a conflict which prevented his attendance to discuss solid waste removal issue. New rep. aware of problems and we are hopeful that we will see improvement. Anne Fauver’s office recommends continued telephoning if yard waste not picked up.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. Sad day for kids -- school’s back in session. Trailers at Inman and Grady because of construction. Scheduling problems at Inman. Grady appeared to run more smoothly. First CINS meeting will be at Morningside School at noon on August 27th.

Special Events: no report.

Tour of Homes: no report.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported through Pres. due to illness. Virginia-Highlands was the largest of any community Night-Out gathering. Martha Hall reported that our own Bill Ellis and Dianne Olansky were specifically thanked at that gathering.

North MLPA/Sidewalks: Kathy Payne reported. July only saw 2 repaired sidewalks. Concern from one resident about algae on sidewalks. Neighbors reminded about need to keep their sidewalks clean.

South MLPA: Barry Berlin had nothing further to report.

NPU Rep: John Schwartz present but nothing to report.

Treasurer’s Report: Ruth Alexander had nothing written (first day of school). Question regarding proration of security patrol dues. Will be explored by president. Motion made and approved for Terry Kearns’ request for website maintenance and domain name of $195. Liability insurance still being explored.

Pres. handed out brochure regarding e-commerce services. Resident referred to Paypal as an option to be explored as well.

Zoning: Trav Carter reported. Mae Reich and Pam Glotzbach also present. Synopsis will start being sent to Board members shortly after committee meeting.

V-03-197; 1026 Robin Lane. Variance sought to reduce front yard setbacks from the required 50 to 37 feet to allow for attic finish with dormers and front porch. All neighbors signed letter of approval. Committee approved application as submitted and per site plans dated 8/5/03. Motion made to follow Committee’s approval and approve application. Seconded and passed unanimously.

V-03-207; 1132 Zimmer Drive. Variance sought to reduce west side yard setback from 7 feet to 3 feet and reduce rear yard setback from 15 feet to 7 feet to allow for construction of detached carport. All affected neighbors approved. Committee approved application as submitted with a requirement of the carport’s dimensions of 21 feet by 21 feet. Motion made to follow Committee’s approval and approve application. Seconded and passed unanimously.

V-03-208; 1112 Zimmer Drive. Motion to defer application to September meeting. Seconded and passed unanimously.

V-03-211; 1264 N. Morningside Drive. Applicant did not show at Committee meeting so deferred. Motion made to defer to September meeting. Seconded and passed unanimously.

New Business: Arborguard representative Nick Lecroy present. Concern over falling trees and what can we do for our trees. 4 years of drought can have a significant impact. Stressed trees can show a decline. Indicators of rot and weakness can be seen. Mulch needs to be done more; grass can be a competitor to the trees. Rep. commented favorably on handout (copied below) but pointed out that reference to “companies” being certified by the ISA is inaccurate, only individuals can be so certified. Question after representative left meeting regarding whether to pick one company and get signups with discounts available. Questions regarding fire at antique shops at Cheshire Bridge; no definitive knowledge as to whether they will reopen.

Anne Fauver recognized. Commended Arborguard for free evaluation done by Company of trees in Piedmont and Grant parks. Solid waste services problems: City has failed to do analyses of vehicles (true throughout City departments) which has resulted in delays in improving solid waste services. Consistent improvements have recently been seen, according to Anne, elsewhere in the District. District 6 problems seem to stem from one particular service division. Anne suggested dating the trash bags when you put them out so that we have evidence of how long they have sat on the curb. Extensive discussion regarding how solid waste pickup can be improved, and cost lowered. References to Alpharetta and Rockdale County. Privatizing discussed. City and Council shell-shocked by water privatizing attempts so probably not ripe time for it to happen with solid waste. City will need to have trash transfer stations. Strong feeling on Council that all stations should not be on the south side of town. Industrial-type area could end up with such a transfer station, such as Cheshire Bridge area. Anne encouraged attendance at budget meeting and only one on close to our neighborhood is the one at the Civic Center on 9/3 from 7 to 9 pm.

Old Business: nothing to report.

President McKay adjourned the meeting at @ 9:00pm.

Tree Maintenance Guidance and Reference Information

Urban trees are subjected to stressful living conditions that often compromise their natural resilience and strength. The trees suffer because urban activities often harden the soils near the trees or pave over the soil completely. This reduces the amount of air and water available to the tree roots. It also often restricts the area where roots can grow, so the tree develops a smaller and weaker root system that will not support the tree. Weak trees then often become more vulnerable to various diseases that further compromise the strength of the trees. The combination of the drought over the last 5 years followed by months of excessive rain in 2003 also caused a dangerous mix of shrunken tree roots and saturated soils. The trees just can’t support themselves.

Homeowners can provide regular maintenance to their young and mature trees that can help prevent some of these conditions.

Regular Maintenance

1. Mulch: place mulch around the roots but not next to the trunk. Extend as far as possible to the drip line. Apply only 2-4 “ of mulch.

2. Water: regular watering schedule in times of drought. Water mature trees and younger ones. Water newly planted trees weekly until established. Mature trees are more variable in their needs, but during long periods of little or no rain, they must be watered at least monthly. Apply approximately 2 gallons per 1” diameter of your tree. Draw a circle on the ground that is the same diameter from the trunk as the outermost tips of the branches. This is the critical root zone that must receive an even distribution of the water. Apply the water slowly so that it will soak into the ground.

3. Prune: Trees need regular maintenance as well for trimming of dead and weak limbs. Never allow your tree to be ‘topped’ –this is illegal. Do not allow anyone who prunes your trees to climb it with spurs. If you are not sure what needs trimming or can’t do the pruning yourself, consult an arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (see below) to evaluate the tree. Only hire a tree company to trim the trees if they are certified by the ISA.

4. Remove vines and groundcover that are growing on the trunk and into the branches. Most common in Atlanta are English Ivy, Wisteria, and Kudzu. These vines should not be growing on the trunk or around the base of the tree. Groundcovers that are maintained around the base but away from the trunk and exposed roots are acceptable. Consider that these plants will be using moisture from the soil that the tree needs when you calculate your water amounts for the tree.

5. Observe your tree. Look for mushroom-like fruiting bodies on the trunks and in the soil around the root zone. These are indicators of various fungi that can damage the tree. Look for cankers on the trunk or branches. Observe the leaves to determine if they are a healthy green color. Consult with an ISA certified arborist to determine if your tree is suffering from a fungus or other disease. The arborist will know what kind of treatment to give your tree.

Hiring an arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture: consult the yellow pages of the phone book or consult the web (www.natlarb.com). You should have your mature trees checked every few years by a certified arborist.

The company that you hire to evaluate your trees may find that a tree is a hazard tree. Any tree found to be a hazard tree must be permitted for removal by the City of Atlanta. However, the permit does not require a posting or appeal period. Therefore, once you have the permit, the tree may be removed. Call the City Arborist Office (404-330-6874) to request the permit; they will inspect the tree. The City Arborist can also perform the evaluations of the conditions of your trees. You may call the city Arborist or hire a tree company with a certified arborist to make the general evaluations of the health of your trees.

Two good web sites for more information about urban tree care:

1. The Georgia Forestry Commission: www.gfc.state.ga.us. This site offers information applicable to Atlanta tree care and environmental conditions. It also has information for finding certified arborists.
2. www.treelink.org. This site has a variety of links to tree related topics.

July 14, 2003 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes

Board members present: Susan Drake, Norman McKay, Mike Carew, Ruth Alexander, Alan Perry, Charlotte Gillis, Joelle Spain, Dianne Olansky, Van Hall, Mae Reich, Pat Gardner, John Schwartz, Kathy Payne, Tad Christian, Karen Schaefer

Pres. McKay called the meeting to order at approximately 7:35 p.m. First order of business was the approval of the June 2003 Board minutes. Motion made to approve, seconded and passed.

Janet Kishbaugh recognized from Anne Fauver’s office. Mention made of good website for information on trees. More information will be forthcoming.

Committee reports:

Security/Public Safety: Mike Carew reported. Statistics are available again. We have the stats for the first 4 months of the year. They show more car breakins than usual. However, based on the calls he has received, car break-ins are being underreported. People are still not calling 911 as they should. Would appreciate any suggestions about encouraging folks to call 911 and reporting crimes to the police. Rest of the report deferred until Detective Vazquez can arrive around 8:30.

Membership: Joelle Spain reported. She has been working on welcome Package with graphics designer. New members signed up in last few weeks.

Newsletter: Van Hall reported. Current issue to go to press by the end of the week. Lead article on the stopping of 485 will be lengthy, resulting from multiple interviews. Newsletter will be longer than usual. Archive of documents related to this portion of the City’s history, which some believe resulted not just in stopping a highway and preserving several intown neighborhoods, but also in re-working City government and how it operates, being developed to donate to the Atlanta History Center. Motion made to donate $2000 to the History Center; seconded. Extensive discussion. Issue tabled. Suggestion made to ask for donations in newsletter. Also discussion about memorial in honor of stopping the roadway.

Parks: Charlotte Gillis reported. Karen Schaefer is a new member of the Tree Commission. The City has a new arborist; Charlotte and Karen plan to introduce themselves. Great improvements going on in Sidney Marcus Park. Graffitti problem mentioned. WUFG had moderately successful workshop with interaction from neighborhood. Rock Creek has been targeted by Park Pride to receive teenage volunteers on four occasions over the next 2 weeks. Need for supervisors. Resolution of issue with tree removal on Robin Lane; Parks Committee satisfied with agreement but neighbor may not be satisfied and has filed an appeal. Question from resident about what MLPA could do to check on safety of large trees to avoid another tragedy such as the Virginia-Highlands incident. Charlotte replied that all we can do is to educate the owners of the trees. Discussion about need to prevent backlash of indiscriminate cutting of old trees. Technically, City Arborists available to come to homes to check on trees. But staff is overworked. Discussion about engaging a consulting arborist/tree company with a guaranteed minimum number of trees for homeowners to sign up so that discount available to neighborhood. Putting information on website of some utility. ArborGuard representative to be contacted.

Beautification: Pat Gardner reported. Habersham doing good job on roundabout. Grass is getting cut. Questions regarding whether some parts of City parks are in fact getting cut. GDOT has necessary information on Cheshire Bridge so improvements may be forthcoming. Question re need for more celebration by MLPA when sidewalk repaired.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported through Pres. McKay. Grady and Inman undergoing extensive renovation.

Tour of Homes: Charla Silvia reported through our President as well. Concept of a “Chef’s Tour” is definitely bearing fruit. We may have more chefs than we need.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported through Dianne Olansky. Crosswalk awareness performed recently on E. Morningside near Woodrow Wilson Park with help of two officers who were aghast at speeding vehicles on that road and Laser detection subsequently done for several hours. Traffic calming project made its way into the 2004 CDP with a #2 priority. Traffic subcommittee dealing with MARTA. Neighborhood Night Out on August 5th. MARTA shuttles will be provided free of charge between Morningside and Carter Center on that night. More details forthcoming. Need for $150 for fliers and for customers of selected businesses. Money is in the budget. Question re whether MLPA will be in Zone 2 or 6. Still up in the air. Motion made to approve up to $150 for purpose previously stated. Seconded and passed.

North MLPA/Sidewalks: Kathy Payne reported. 4 homeowners got new sidewalks. Question regarding getting rid of framing and damage to yards repaired. Idea of fliers going out to owners of sidewalks needing repair.

South MLPA: Barry Berlin reported through the President that Sidney Marcus improvements team raised $85,000 which will be matched by the City.

NPU Representative: Reps. present but nothing to report.

Treasurer’s Report: Ruth Alexander reported. Nothing surprising. Liability insurance quote would cover Tour but not Celebration of Summer and Security Patrol officers would be covered only to the extent that we can provide evidence that the police officers are covered under the City’s policy. Detective Vazquez appeared and confirmed that Atlanta police officers are “covered” by the City once the “extra job” permit has been approved by the Chief of Police. Good month overall: 3 vehicles stolen (but with extenuating circumstances such as keys left in the car) and breakins down from beginning of the year. One officer recovered a stolen vehicle from the neighborhood while on active duty. Chief Pennington insistent on commanders having action plans to deal with any crime stats going the wrong way. Gang unit uses graffiti as a tool to interpret gang movements but not really geared up to combat the graffiti itself. Graffiti in this neighborhood is much more likely resulting from teenagers in the area as opposed to gangs. Joelle asked about delays in getting yard signs out -- may be a problem with City email but Detective will pay attention to this issue.

Zoning: Tad Christian reported. No cases to deal with but he does report “encouraging” signs of potential homeowners getting in touch with him before buying houses.

New Business: July 15 public hearing from 4-7 pm at Emory University on Athens to Atlanta Commuter Rail. Www.garail.com. Need to push for more members discussed, especially MSP members. Need to go to online signups discussed. PayPal to be explored.

Old Business: brief update about Georgia Power substation on 2020 Lenox Road. No offer made to buy third house down but apparently serious about buying second house down. CDC’s clear position that back-up service not needed has apparently thrown issue back to Georgia Power planners.

Antigraffiti legislation passed. Property owner given notice to clean it up within 10 days and then City cleans it up and charges the property owner.

Meeting adjourned at approximately 9:20 pm.

June 9, 2003 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes (draft)

Board members present: Norman McKay, Susan Drake, Alan Perry, Dianne Olansky, Mike Carew, Bill Ellis, Charlotte Gillis, Joe Giardina, John Schwartz, Ruth Alexander.

President McKay called the meeting to order at approximately 7:33 pm. First order of business was the approval of the May meeting minutes. Motion made to approve, seconded and passed.

Councilwoman Anne Fauver recognized. Peachtree South Fork work to be completed with ribbon cutting in July. Biggest news is that the Mayor has nominated a new Commissioner of Public Works. David Scott comes from Baltimore and will be voted on on 6/16. New Deputy Commissioner in charge of yard pickup (a/k/a solid waste) also nominated. Dog park at Piedmont Park is the subject of ordinances to make it a permanent part of the park. Orme Circle residents object but question arises whether Amsterdam "Dog Bark" may be responsible for noice complaints. Graffitti ordinance requires owner of property on which graffitti exists 10 days after citation to remove the offending marks. Sunken Garden erosion going to be addressed as well as bogginess of area underneath playscapes.

Committee reports:

Security/Public Safety: Mike Carew reported. Auto theft crime wave. 4 reported thefts during one week in May. All involved car keys either left in cars or in bag next to unlocked house door. Precautions need to be taken.

Membership: no report.

Newsletter: Susan Drake recognized. Martha Hall reported through President. Articles due for current newsletter. New email address for martha hall: marthaporterhall@bellsouth.net.

Parks: Charlotte Gillis reported. Letter passed out to the Mayor about the movement of arborists from Bureau of Buildings to Watershed Management. Strategy will be to recruit involvement across the City, given the difficulty of getting such a structural change approved. Complaints about plywood left by City when mowing Lenox-Wildwood Park and a tree leaning over West Sussex from the same park. Much discussion about content of letter to Mayor. Essential terms approved (action already approved by Board at earlier meeting).

Beautification: Pat Gardner reported through Ruth Alexander. Approval sought of total funds of $1400 for summer mowings of various islands throughout the neighborhood. Passed on voice vote.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. School's out.

Special Events: President observed that the Celebration was a wonderful event.

Tour of Homes: no report.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported. Dianne Olansky and Bill will be attending Walkable Streets workshop 7:30 tomorrow morning. MARTA meeting took place. Survey agreed to be conducted to see how public bus transit can be improved so as to increase neighborhood ridership. 45, 36, 16 and 27 are the routes in question. Traffic calming efforts looking for funding and Committee will be meeting with ARC. BTTS the subject of concern by the Committee for being slow to act to approve the traffic calming plan.

Indoor air quality: recommendation will be to approve a no smoking ordinance but with restaurant representatives presenting minority view that no government regulation of this kind should take place. CDP: Bill also attended a meeting on the Plan, the Comprehensive Development Plan.

North MLPA/Sidewalks:no report.

South MLPA: no report.

NPU Representatives: present but no report.

Treasurer: Ruth Alexander reported. Insurance quote forthcoming. Written report handed out.

Zoning: Mae Reich reported as the only Zoning Committee member present.

Application No. V-03-122: 836 E.Morningside Drive. Variance to reduce the west side yard setback from 7 feet to 3 ½ feet to allow for the construction of a 2nd story and 2nd story rear addition. Approved by Zoning Committee 6-0, per site plan of 5/14/03. Motion made to approve, passed unanimously.

Application No. V-03-126: 691 Sherwood Road. Variance to reduce the west side yard setback from 7 feet to 2 feet 3 inches for 1st and 2nd story additions and to reduce east side yard setback from 7 feet to 3 feet 3 inches and rear yard setback from 15 feet to 7 feet to allow for a detached garage. Committee voted to approve. Motion made to approve with standard conditions, hose bib, amp, height. Passed unanimously.

New Business: Tom Walsh of Tunnell-Spangler-Walsh Associates reported on improvements to Piedmont Park. Changes of various kinds, not all of which have been funded, were discussed. The Midtown Alliance is helping fund certain aspects of the changes, including the fence along Piedmont Avenue. Motion made to recommend approval of plans to NPU. Passed unanimously. Nothing new from Georgia Power, as reported by President McKay.

June 23rd: workshop at the Rock Springs Chapel on the WUFG Master Plan.

Meeting adjourned at approximately 8:52 pm.

May 12, 2003 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes (draft)

Board members present: Norman McKay, Mike Carew, Dianne Olansky, Ruth Alexander, Alan Perry, Charlotte Gillis, Joelle Spain, Mae Reich, Trav Carter, Tad Christian, Kerry Brown, Daniel Cherrix, Pat Gardner, Joe Giardina, Martha Porter Hall, and Karen Schaefer.

Pres. McKay called the meeting to order at @ 7:32 pm. First order of business was the approval of the April minutes. Motion made, seconded and passed.

Committee reports:

Security/Public Safety: Mike Carew reported. Probably June before we have access to crime stats. Reported on a Good Samaritan who found stolen mail from Lenox Circle area and attempted to return as much as possible. Mail thefts are a problem. Neighbor on Monroe who lost potted plants then planted plants has now lost his mailbox. No arrest made yet. Identification of perpetrator has been made though. Another neighbor observed that Cherokee vehicles from early-90's are very much targets because VIN numbers can be changed easily.

Membership: Joelle Spain reported. Meeting planned with graphic designer to begin on welcome package. Appeal to Board for help with graphics design because it is expensive. Motion made to pay designer for directory (already completed) in amount of $484. Seconded and passed.

Newsletter: Martha Porter Hall reported. Invoice for last newsletter presented in amount of $2762.21 to Austin Printing. Motion to pay, seconded and passed. We are down from 14 to 5 signs. Recommends that we spend $330 for 30 more signs. Seconded and passed. Next newsletter deadline will be June 7th. Feature will be anniversary of stopping 485.

Parks: Charlotte Gillis reported. 2 invoices: one left over from tree planting because we did not get billed for all trees that were actually planted. $795. Second invoice was to get a hose bib on Barclay median. We agreed to pay this because we did it in other locations. Total of $900 (even though City pays for water and it is for City property). Motion made, seconded and passed. Report on problems with enforcement of Tree Ordinance. Looking to move Arborists out from under Bureau of Buildings (Norman Copeland) and into Watershed Management. Looking for MLPA Board approval to move forward with Anne Fauver’s office and look for such structural changes. Janet Kishbaugh’s absence noted with sorrow. Belief stated that we have the Councilperson’s support on this issue. Discussion about need for official MLPA positions to be run by the Board but it does not have to be at a Board meeting. Comments by several Board members who spoke positively about citizens working to change/improve City government, but that putting forth recommendations as MLPA-sanctioned should be run past the Board prior to submission, perhaps via email if time was short.

Beautification: Kerry Brown reported. Pat Gardner also present. Yardman will accumulate invoices over summer and will seek approval shortly. Habersham Gardens working on plan for Rock Spring circle. Questions on whether Tour of Homes signs from other neighborhoods belong here.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. No report.

Special Events: Daniel Cherrix reported. Celebration of Summer will be May 23 at Sunken Garden Park at E. Rock Springs/Sussex; 5:30 pm to dusk. Multiple expenses due, including $600 for clowns. Sponsorship monies already committed, better than in previous years. Rain or shine. Motion to pay monies, seconded and passed.

Tour of Homes: No report.

Traffic: No report.

North MLPA/Sidewalks: No report.

South MLPA: No report.

NPU Rep: Dianne Olansky reported. No new news.

Treasurer’s Report: Ruth Alexander reported. Report distributed with 4 months worth of results. Reminder from Ruth to watch increases that seem to be coming in every year in different ways. Resolution passed unanimously to place the current president as a signatory (and remove the former president as such).

Zoning: Trav Carter reported. Tad Christian also present. No applications. Questions arose about Du Plex. Questionable goings on with respect to liquor license and parking spaces. Not zoned for present use.

New business: Former president Olansky needs reimbursement for copying charges and One-Call of $239.18. Motion made, seconded and passed.

Recurring business: Handout from Anne Fauver’s office about property tax assessments. Janet Kishbaugh showed up (late due to Anne’s being in car wreck but everyone OK) and asked about: New noise control ordinance: annoying sounds must be “clearly audible” from a certain distance away. Different standards (distances) depending upon time of day. Construction contractors get temporary variances from ordinance. Much discussion about appeals from property tax assessments as well. May 21 is date of public hearing on Fulton County millage rate (necessary because mills selected by County results in a tax increase).

Old business:

Lenox Road Substation: Don Perkins and Joe Thomas called Norman this morning about a meeting this afternoon between Georgia Power and CDC about just what it meant for GP to be backup power source. Planners studying that, according to GP, and still feel that it may be necessary to go forward with Lenox Road substation. “Stay tuned” is the catch phrase. Appraisals being done for 2 homes next to 2020 Lenox. 3 options under consideration for routing power to CDC from substation; options probably are city streets, CSX right of way, and another way that affects some homes. Also, the Corps of Engineers responded to a letter from Pat Gardner that no application was on file for construction on the wetlands on the site but that we would be informed if there were any
applications or hearings.

Liability insurance issues still out there. Quote should be forthcoming. Effort will be made to get it in place before Celebration of Summer.

Meeting adjourned at @ 9:02 pm.

April 14, 2003 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes (draft) and Tree Care

Board members present: Dianne Olansky, Norman McKay, Mike Carew, Joelle Spain, Alan Perry, John Neel (new database manager), Mae Reich, Martha Porter Hall, Charlotte Gillis, Karen Schaefer, Ruth Alexander, John Schwartz, Trav Carter, Steven Rowell, Tad Christian, Joe Giardina, Lee Kintzel.

Pres. Olansky called the meeting to order at @ 7:32 pm . First order of business was the approval of minutes for the March 10, 2003 minutes. Motion to approve, seconded and passed.

Committee Reports

Security Patrol: Mike Carew reported. No access to crime stats because of change to City computer systems. Have received calls about property theft in neighborhood. Monroe resident had potted plants removed and then actual plants dug up. 3 grand theft auto crimes in neighborhood recently. A Zimmer Road incident involved property taken from one car including spare keys to another car which was then stolen shortly thereafter. Anne Fauver’s office assisted with the replacement of a fire hydrant recently; thanks to them. Personal observation from a resident about importance being not leaving anything valuable in your car. Another question re followup on Judge Wright’s shooting and response times.

Membership: Joelle Spain reported. Pres. Olansky thanked Joelle for her efforts in hand delivery of membership directories. All done by her personally. Next project is welcoming new neighbors with a map, photographs, etc. YE 2002: 164+ additional members. Total of 906 at year end. 865 members presently.

Newsletter: Martha Hall reported. Issue at printer. Should be at homes within next few weeks. Summer issue will focus on 30th anniversary of stopping 485 roadway.

Parks: Charlotte Gillis and Karen Schaefer reported. A hose bib was successfully installed at Barclay Place median to water the plant materials installed and maintained by residents in the median. Parks worked with City Parks Dept. Parks Committee working with residents along Lanier Blvd. who want to prevent vehicles from damaging the edges of the median. Traffic Committee will also be involved. Motion made to approve tree protection policy statement. Passed 11-1-1. (See attached).

If you know of violations of cutting trees without permits, let someone on the Parks Committee know. Need to collect examples of violations before going to the City. Frustration expressed by a resident with about a year ago advice from a city arborist that someone had to get a landscape architect before cutting down a “weed” like tree. Member advised that arborists have changed and they should try again.

Janet Kisbaugh recognized from Anne Fauver’s office. Member complained about yard waste collection. Very serious problem for neighborhood. IF you get missed during your week, call Anne Fauver’s office. Regular schedule is, if you get your waste picked up on Monday or Tuesday, then your yard waste should be picked up during the 1st and 3rd weeks of each month. Any “fifth week” of the month is catchup time. Problem not just limited to this neighborhood, other districts are having similar problems.

Beautification: Pat Gardner reported. Cleanup of Woodrow Wilson Park recognized. Habersham has a plan for the roundabout. Contract with an enterprising young man to do mowing of 4 triangles. Also efforts to get people more organized about beautification. Question re size of signs at parks. Any suggestions, call Pat.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. Dr. Betsy Bockman was appointed Principal at Inman. She used to be principal at Morningside so good things are expected at Inman. 7:30 CINS meeting with Superintendent Kathy Cox and state legislators on April 23rd at Inman concerning neighborhood schools. CINS made their annual request for funding. Monies go for teaching awards. Motion made to contribute $1000; (already in budget) -- seconded and passed, one abstention.

Special Events: Daniel Cherrix sick but reported through the President that things on track for Celebration of Summer. Motion made to reimburse Pres. for $300 for special permit. Seconded and passed.

Traffic: Bill Ellis traveling. Report given by President: Zone 2 now has a unit dedicated to traffic enforcement. Thanks to Major Spillane for establishing it and sending it into Morningside for its first 2 weeks. The MLPA Traffic Calming Plan is in the CDP plan that NPU-F requested. We will know soon what got accepted. BTTS - No responses, still, on any of our requests except incomplete statistics on why the three requested intersections failed the stop sign test. Those are flawed. Striping at the Rock Springs/Morningside intersections is not a part of neighborhood plan, but appears to better define the current traffic pattern.

Wed. : Meeting with MARTA officials and Bill Ellis, Dianne Olansky, and Carol Ogg. Hope to establish a coordinated effort to improve bus service in neighborhoods. Traffic Meeting tomorrow night at 7:30.

North MLPA/Sidewalks: Lee Kintzel reported. 4 or 5 sidewalk repairs in the works. Thanks Board for continued support.

New NPU-F rep. John Schwartz recognized.

Treasurer: Ruth Alexander reported. Today is April 14th (meaning she’s been busy with her tax accounting work). Motion made to approve payment of $250 for Girl Scout efforts during Celebration of Summer. Passed with one abstention. Efforts ongoing to get insurance in force. Insurance of 6300; Security Patrol pays for half. Budget adjusted to reflect differences from this adjusted amount. 5400 coming from MSP (including half of dues/renewal mailings). Passed. Motion made but withdrawn about adding a line item for Georgia Power expenses. Amount spent will be shown with a zero in the budget, showing that it was not part of the budget.

Zoning: Steven Rowell reported.

V-03-19: 800 Lambert Drive. Special exception to reduce on-site parking from required 166 spaces to 65 spaces on-site. Business is catering business; use of renovated facility would be as “convention hall” for special catered events such as weddings, bar mitzvahs, etc. Zoning Committee had recommended approval upon 2 conditions: That applicant obtain a binding lease from the adjacent property (812 Lambert) for the additional required parking and that this lease be signed no later than the NPU-F meeting on 4/21 and That special exception would be revoked should either/or: (a) applicant fail to maintain lease with adjacent property (b) applicant change intended use of the property. Motion made for approval with those conditions plus that the applicant’s property be brought in compliance with the Tree Ordinance (if is not already) and the adjacent property parking lease be available to the MLPA President upon reasonable request. Motion passed 9-1 with 3 abstentions.

Trav Carter and Tad Christian recognized as new Cochairs of Zoning.

Motion made by Joelle Spain for payment of $3053.80 for directories. Passed. Motion also made by Karen Schaefer for payment of $2710 (planting of 75 trees) on tree planting day. Passed.

Old business: update on Georgia Power substation plans. Questions remaining on floodplains issue and Corps of Engineer permitting process; City zoning process applicability; involvement of CDC and applicability of federal law; if station does in fact go forward, landscape architects ready to be involved.

Meeting adjourned after Pres. Olansky thanked for her years of effort at @ 9:17 pm.

Attachment:

Morningside Lenox Park Association Board of Directors and Parks Committee Asks You to Protect our Trees

We who make Atlanta our home are fortunate to live in a city that was built in a forest. And none more so than those of us who reside in the Morningside Lenox Park community. The benefits of the trees that grace our neighborhood go far beyond the beauty they lend to our surroundings.

Trees mitigate the heat of the summer sun. Who doesn't look for the shade of a tree to park under on a hot July day? Similarly, trees cool our homes. The trees that shade your yard can cut your-and your neighbors'-summer air conditioning bills in half.
Trees buffer street noise and produce a soothing rustle all their own that further dampens urban cacophony.
Trees provide a sense of privacy in an urban setting.
Trees improve a home's "curb appeal" and increase its property value.
Trees cleanse dirty air. Their leaves trap gaseous pollutants by absorbing them through pores on the leaf surface. In a year's time an acre of trees absorbs enough carbon dioxide from the air to equal the amount produced from driving a car 26,000 miles.
Tree roots prevent erosion and help maintain cleaner water. Intertwining roots keep the soil permeable and permit rainwater to soak into the soil instead of flowing off as storm water runoff. As the water trickles slowly through the ground, the soil filters many pollutants from the rainwater.
Trees provide a habitat for songbirds.
Tree-lined sidewalks enhance an afternoon walk or jog.
Tree limbs offer children a place to climb or a branch to hang a swing.

Considering the manifold benefits that trees provide, both practical and aesthetic, the Morningside Lenox Park Association is committed to preserving this natural heritage of our community. Before you decide to remove a tree from your property, talk to a professional arborist. Determine if the tree truly needs to be taken out. Tree services may be able to prune dead limbs that pose a risk to your home without taking out the entire tree.

If you find you must remove a tree, let your neighbors know. Remember, removal of a large tree can have significant impact on their landscaping as well as yours. Before you cut, be sure to apply for a tree removal permit by calling the Atlanta Arborists' office at 404-330-6080. Then call the Morningside Lenox Park Association Park's Committee at 404-876-3456 to sign up to receive a replacement tree planted free of charge.

Morningside Lenox Park is one of the most appealing neighborhoods in our city. Help us maintain our community's unique charm by treasuring and protecting the huge, beautiful old growth trees that shade our streets and dapple our sidewalks.

For more information on tree care and protection go to www.mlpa.org and click on Parks Committee or see www.treesatlanta.org.

March 10, 2003 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes

Board members present: Dianne Olansky, Norman McKay, Ruth Alexander, Joelle Spain, Mike Carew, Alan Perry, Mae Reich, Pat Gardner, Steven Rowell, Joe Giardina, Charlotte Gillis.

Pres. Olansky called the meeting to order at approximately 7:32 pm. First order of business was the approval of the February 10, 2003 minutes. Secretary noted a typographical error in draft minutes as circulated. As amended, minutes approved.

Councilmember Anne Fauver and House Rep. Pat Gardner recognized. Anne Fauver spoke on a resolution that will come before Council shortly. If you work for or contract with the City or receive a certain level of tax credits/abatements, you must pay your employees a "living wage," defined as 10.60 if benefits are included and 12.25 if benefits are not paid. Her opinion is that the bill is not well thought out and hopes that it will be tabled. Costs of some City contracts, security contracts, certain parttime employees would be increased if bill passed.

Question asked about HipHop; police working hard on plan to help out Dogwood Festival and Midtown Tour of Homes with traffic concerns.

Movement of Ga. Power followup to front of agenda presented to Board by President. Passed.

Presentation entitled "Georgia Power Company Lenox Road Substation Project" Privileged and Confidential. Objective tonight was to share information on other sites. Request for environmental studies denied. Willing to share executive summary and to discuss it with smaller group, even to review the report. 4/799-2151: Jim Candler. Summary read. Request to identify those portions on the map subject to wetland protection. 404 permit needed for 20% of substation site. Fill needed. GP met with WUFG last week. Retention pond will be necessary. 2 or 3 options. Offered to work with WUFG on this pond. Questions re standing water. Not yet designed so cannot offer specifics. Questions re design of pond: need to look at what a 100-year rain event will produce so you can deal with it. 18 foot earthen retaining wall above the floodplain. Question re access to the substation: after built, 2-3 times during the week. Underground back to the east. Cannot do away with existing overhead wires. MARTA planning to buy CSX right of way. Most likely scenario would be overhead at Lenox Road; studies have not been done. Very iffy. Emory very interested in connecting to Lindbergh. Route east from Substation, going by city streets. Looked at following train tracks but not possible. Construction should not impede traffic on Lenox during the construction. Building of distribution lines will cause traffic disruption during that period. Lines running south on Lenox may be overhead or underground. (Transcript produced by Secretary of portion of Georgia Power's presentation to be attached as addendum to minutes).

Question re sale of Boulevard adjoining property to Hillside. Station at Boulevard pretty well landlocked. Before sale of any land, proposal sent through various depts to make sure they cannot use it in the future. Station acquired by eminent domain? GP does not know. Missed the boat? Denied. Not sure if tract of land usable.

Other sites examined on Cheshire Bridge Road and Zonolite area. General discussion about siting projects. Looked at in broad scope. First make sure that they cannot use what is already in place. Second look at whether can add to the lines already in place: rebuild/add on to. If cannot do either, then either build a new line or site a new sub. The 230 line running N/S is the one they need to tap. Looked at Cheshire Bridge and Zonolite carefully.

Technology not available to place 230 transmission lines underground. Cheshire Bridge: in commercial area. Disadvantages: transmission line required, large trees would have to be cut, visual impact, commercial buildings to be purchased, road right of way conflict along Cheshire Bridge, physical difficulties turning transmission line, cost. Zonolite area the other finalist of the 3 sites. Because of 120 feet of right of way needed along Lenox Circle, would probably have to buy 10-12 homes. Trees cut in front of homes. Similar advantage and disadvantages: buy homes and commercial buildings with tenants, transmission line required, community impact, visual impact, not ideal location to serve MLPA area, cost.
Why planning to build site where it is: no new transmission line required, minimum transmission modifications at substation, less community impact, reliability, cost, best location to meet community electical needs, disadvantage is the purchase of at least one home.

Question about why you cannot build it near CDC. CDC said no room. Presentation postponed to move on to Zoning.

Zoning: Steven Rowell reported.

V-03-18A: 1258 North Morningside Drive: variance to reduce east side yard setback from 7 feet to 2.6 feet to allow for 2nd story addition. Building on footprint. Committee recommended to approve per conditions: per site plan received by City on 1/14/03; per architectural plans dated 11/21/02; written approval received from east neighbor no later than NPU-F meeting on 3/17/03; seconded and passed.

V-03-19: 800 Lambert Drive. Special exception to reduce the on-site parking from 166 spaces to 65 spaces. Committee recommended deferring application for one month due to failure of applicant to appear. Passed without opposition.

V-03-36: 1510 North Highland Avenue: special exception to allow for 5 foot fence to be erected where otherwise a 4 foot fence is allowed. Motion to recommend approval as long as no objections from any neighbor before NPU-F. Passed without opposition.

V-03-38: 1005 McLynn Avenue: variance to reduce west side yard setback from required 7 feet to 4 feet 3 inches to allow for addition to home and east side yard setback from 7 feet to 2 feet and the rear setback from 15 feet to 2 feet to allow for detached garage. Committee, after much effort, passed a motion to recommend approval per existing site plan received by the City on 2/12/03; that the front, rear, and side elevation views are provided no later than the NPU-F meeting on 3/17/03; that the front extension of the house not exceed any more than 10 feet past existing structure and that the front extension only be a single story covered front porch; that the rear extension of the house not exceed any more than 12 feet past the existing structure; that the application be amended to remove the garage. Extensive discussion regarding lack of plans for garage and lack of information about site available to Committee. Motion made to approve per Committee conditions, passed 10 in favor and 2 abstentions.

President asked Committee members to shorten reports due to time constraints. President sought approval for reimbursement of $212 for one-call. Approved. Parks Committee plans work on April 12 at 10:00: Woodrow Wilson Park.

Security Patrol: leave stuff out of cars.

New liability insurance for MLPA/MSP:Same coverage as before for 1500 less: motion made to approve purchase of new insurance. 7500 new coverage; approved. Motion made to approve not more than $500 for Woodrow Wilson work; already in budget. Passed.

Back to Georgia Power: Ross Mansbach commented and addressed some remaining questions: why couldn't Lindbergh or Boulevard be expanded? Boulevard already addressed. Lindbergh area being redeveloped and capacity needed to deal with that development. Boulevard really could not be expanded; must build on new footprint. Cost twice as expensive (rough guess) to expand Boulevard and Creek Park. But also engineering reasons why could not expand Boulevard.

Why not get whole report for Lenox site? Internal document to be maintained at the Company.
OK to see it at the Company but cannot get copies. Do any feasibility studes on any site? Additional costs are those addressed earlier.

Put in writing that Georgia Power would not expand substation? No. Plan is to reduce footprint of substation. Reasons expansion impractical: encroachment into flood plain; design of station involved folding in of transformers so as to make expansion of station unlikely. Impact of alternative sites outweighs increased expansion possibilities for locating in industrial areas. Lenox Road will serve CDC/Emory, Morningside and Midtown. Need to supply power to CDC and Midtown and be able to tap into the 230 line. Views expressed from several residents that Georgia Power has not made a persuasive case for the location of this substation in a residential neighborhood. Challenged view is that the substation will satisfy Midtown and CDC/Emory growth, not our neighborhood's. GP admitted that CDC will fund a portion of Lenox Road expansion. Questions raised about the use of federal funds -- does this not require environmental studies or other federal laws to be applicable?

GP agreed to take another look at Hillside property. Underground duct bank is the largest cost component as opposed to the substation itself. Point made that substation itself is the largest impact on the neighborhood.

GP representative said they went back and took a second look, knowing that they would be in front of the group at some point. He feels good that they have done everything they can do to canvass the various opportunities. It has been reported on up to the management level but he, as Chairman of the planning group/site selection group, states that the buck stops with him. Costs are not even close and the impact upon the neighborhood is not even close.
Notes once again the impact of new 230 "double circuit" lines. States that the choice is the "most practical" site and that impact upon the neighborhood is a significant criterion.

Question asked: can they start working with group on screening plan?

Pres. Olansky said that she is not sure at all that it is time to discuss screening.

Question from Lindridge-Martin Manor representative about GP meeting with their group. Meeting is to take place.

Meeting adjourned at approximately 10:20 pm.

February 10, 2003 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes - draft

See the latest Security Alert

Board members present: Dianne Olansky, Norman McKay, Ruth Alexander, Charlotte Gillis, Lee Kintzel, Bob Silvia, Mike Carew, Bill Ellis, Alan Perry, Daniel Cherrix, Steven Rowell, Susan Drake, Joelle Spain, Karen Schaefer, John Schwartz, Martha Porter Hall, Van Hall, Pat Gardner.

Meeting called to order at approximately 7:30 pm. First order of business was the approval of the January 2003 minutes. Motion made to approve, seconded and passed.

Elected representatives Anne Fauver and Nancy Boxill recognized. Later in the program, representatives Pat Gardner and Sam Zamarippa also recognized.

Church representative thanked Daniel Cherrix and Julia Emmons and MLPA for the Atlanta Symphony string trio concert visit to the Church.

Voice vote to bring Georgia Power issue to the front of the agenda. Passed.

John Kelly (Operations), Dorsey Walker (External Affairs), Don Perkins (Land Acquisition), and Lolita Browning (Media Relations) there from Georgia Power.
John Kelly: GP has option on 2020 Lenox Road. Plan to design and build substation adjacent to property. Need to get more power into this area. Considered many sites. This is the best site. Power lines already there: 230 and 115. Right of way already there. Less disruptive to the neighborhood. No new transmission lines to be constructed. If present home is to stay there, then smaller station. Use of GIS or newer system to be explored. Smaller station than the one on Monroe expected. Emory is part of puzzle but not entire puzzle. Neighborhood should see greater reliability.

Trying to put substation behind house at 2020. Plan is to put it underneath the lines already there. Because plans are not firm, put option on house; didn't buy it. Willing to come back with more detailed plans in a week or so. Would not maintain home; if home remained, then would re-sell home. Georgia Power does have homes it rents but this would probably not be one of them. Many questions asked from neighbors gathered. Not presently planning to buy other homes unless adjacent homeowners felt like substation impacted their property and then Georgia Power would be open to discussing buying the property. Question from neighbor about speed: Georgia Power saw home for sale and had it under option the next day. When heard word was out, did go out and attempt to speak to neighbors. Suspicions voiced about Emory growth and CDC being reasons for substation need. Those areas, as well as North Decatur and Druid Hills generally, will be served out of this substation.

Questions as to noise and environmental dangers. More modern equipment has much less hum. Site was chosen mainly because of the convergence of the power lines at this point. These lines have to be tapped in order to serve what Georgia Power needs to serve. Rumors about Emory not allowing substation to be built near its property being the reason it needs to be located in our neighborhood. Looking for completion of project in June 2004 with ground being broken in early 2004 (guess).
Most recent substation was in Emory on Oxford Road. Worked with screening and reduced noise. Several years ago. Clarification about whether house will stay. Georgia Power just does not know whether house at 2020 will stay or not. Substation on Piedmont is about a year old. And screening is just now going up. Explanation is that Georgia Power did not have to work with the neighborhood. Georgia Power is "pretty certain" that a substation will be built at this location. Plan is for CDC lines to go underground with mini substation at CDC (moving of present substation because of post-September 11 concerns). Question re why not run larger lines through same stations and along existing rights of way if problem? Confusion re transmission and distribution. 115 is overloaded at this time. Consensus that more information needed so that neighborhood understands exactly what is going on. The Board will provide updates on website at www.mlpa.org.

Security Patrol: Mike Carew and Bob Silvia reported. No crime statistics available because Officer is undercover. No new calls. Call 911! New sign displayed. 40 members who have been signed up since (or who fell through the cracks) should have signs up next month. Volunteers who put up new signs on a very cold day were: McKay, both Halls, David Turkheimer, Tad Christian, Ellis, Olansky, Gillis, Schaefer, Silvia and Carew.

Membership: Joelle Spain reported. Numbers as of 1/2003: 786 total members. Street captain contest winners to be recognized soon.

Newsletter: Van and Martha Hall. Printing bill of $2786. Motion made and passed for approval of payment. Summer issue will be anniversary of stopping I-485. Issue recently delivered.

Parks: Charlotte Gillis reported. 70 trees planted on Saturday. Trees Atlanta was a big partner in this, as were many neighbors. Meeting on 3/2 from 2 to 4 on "Your Neighborhood Green Connections" presented by the Rock Creek Watershed Alliance. Sidney Marcus Park group representative thanked MLPA for its support. Old playground equipment will come down and be replaced.

Beautification: Pat Gardner reported. One marker damaged (decapitation). Motion made to spend up to $500 to repair marker. Passed. Habersham Gardens has taken over circle at Rock Springs. Wilson Park is focus of efforts of Kerry Brown.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. Next CINS meeting on Wednesday with Dr. Sharron Hunt, APS Director of Research and Accountability (lunch for $5).

Special Events: Daniel Cherrix reported. String trio at Church was successful with over a hundred in attendance. Celebration of Summer party will be on May 23, 2003 in Sunken Garden Park, from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported. Attended meeting of GA DOT Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Committee and discovered that only one employee (out of 6,000) is dedicated to pedestrian and bicycle issues in entire state DOT. Help recently received from Lamar Willis's office to get one of the ARC "Walkable Communities" workshops in our neighborhood. Next traffic committee meeting will also focus on MARTA and how it can work better in our neighborhood. Meeting to be arranged with Councilman Willis (Chairman of Council Transportation Committee) to try and improve Bureau of Traffic & Transportation customer service. $106.77 to print Traffic Calming Plan books and for parking on DOT meeting. Motion made and passed.

Sidewalks/North MLPA: Lee Kintzel reported. Newsletter generated interest. Sidney Marcus Park approached her about working with drainage/walkway issues -- encouraged to look for grant money.

Treasurer's report: Ruth Alexander reported. Motion made to approve additional $4000 to Sidney Marcus Park. Seconded and passed. Liability insurance issues discussed. Competing broker application in the works. No later than 24th Board will have information and will vote by 28th so that we continue to have liability insurance.

Zoning: Steven Rowell reported.

First item was discussion of accessory structure height. Motion to adopt wording that the height of accessory structures is to be measured from the top of the slab to the top of the roof ridge. This will be policy of Zoning Committee. Motion made to approve; passed.

V-02-367: 594 Cumberland Road. Variance to reduce side yard setback from 7 feet to 2 feet and reduce rear yard setback from 15 feet to 2 feet to allow for construction of detached garage. Neighbor urged consideration of not damaging root structure of large tree between houses. Discussion. Motion made to approve with condition that applicant provide report from arborist by NPU meeting on Monday. Also other conditions: height limited to 16 feet; plumbing limited to hose bib; electrical service limited to 60 amps; and submitted plans amended to show height limited to 16 feet (which was done). Motion made and passed with one opposition.

V-03-01: 1268 Pasadena Avenue. Variance to reduce side yard setback from 7 feet to 2 feet to allow for construction of detached garage. Committee approved with conditions of height limited to 16 feet, plumbing limited to hose bib, electrical service limited to 60 amps, and per plans as submitted, dated 1/1/03. Motion made to approve and passed with no opposition.

New Business: Pot Hole Report on website.

Old Business: Deux Plex. Applying for liquor license as new owner of existing business. Questions re bottom of business and usage. Cabaret usage on weekends. Question re parking. Thursday and Friday nights were packed (All Star events). Neighbor called police 5 times. Owner is DJ on some events. Question re whether restaurant can legally be operated at same time as cabaret (because of parking concerns). Need to know what are parking spaces. NPU is where these issues will be addressed. Need to know about parking (valet parking) and plans for business so can judge whether parking requirements be satisfied. Owner is before MLPA only as courtesy; NPU is the place where these issues are addressed.

Nick Moritakis could not be here because a Judiciary Committee meeting was called. But Martha Hall will be working for him on constituent services (so his assistant was present).

Meeting adjourned at 9:35 pm.

January 13, 2003 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes - Draft

Board members present: Dianne Olansky, Norman McKay, Alan Perry, Mike Carew, Ruth Alexander, Susan Drake, Karen Schaefer, Bob Silvia, Steven Rowell, Martha Porter Hall, Bill Ellis, Mae Reich, Mike Banick, Joelle Spain, Van Hall, Joe Giardina, Trav Carter.

Pres. Olansky convened the meeting at @ 7:35 pm. The first order of business was the approval of the December 9, 2002 minutes. A member had raised a question about the contribution by MLPA to Morningside Presbyterian so the Secretary asked that the minutes be clarified so that it was clear that this annual donation was in lieu of rent for the space used by MLPA throughout the year. Motion made to approve the minutes as clarified. Seconded and passed.

Councilmember Anne Fauver recognized. Things coming up this year from the City include the finalization of the Parks plan, perhaps including moving it away from the City so that contributions could be solicited from private citizens; a movement to improve the antigraffitti and antilitter laws. Special events ordinance and tree ordinance changes have already happened. Street renaming issues raised. She invited everyone to the District 6 Town Hall Meeting next week, January 21, 2003, from 7 to 8:30 pm at Inman Middle School. Special guests are to be Mayor Franklin and Police Chief Pennington. Mention made of sewer work in the neighborhood, for which Councilmember Fauver commends the City in getting notice out to the neighborhood.

Committee Reports

Security Patrol: Mike Carew reported. December stats: 4 car breakins, 2 burglaries, 1 grand auto theft and 1 other larceny. Trend is counter to what we usually see in December. Warning given of incident on Wildwood last week; 2 guys going door to door, one with yellow pamphlets. Suspicious activities which they ceased when tailed by a Board member. Also report of similar activities on Northview. Bob Silvia reported on the new signs coming out this weekend which will replace the ones that are 10 years old. Later in the meeting, Mike suggested that you put your street numbers on the new signs to reduce theft.

Zoning: Steven Rowell reported. V-02-356: 1159 Reeder Circle. Application for variance to reduce side yard setback from 7 feet to 1 foot to allow for construction of detached carport. Motion made to recommend approval in Committee with conditions that gutters be added to the structure, that height from the slab to peak is limited to 16 feet, that plumbing is limited to a hose bib, electrical service limited to 60 amps, and the submitted plans be amended to show a distance from the structure to the property line of 1 foot instead of the 6 inches as submitted. Passed Committee 5 in favor with 2 abstaining. Motion made to recommend approval per conditions. Passed with 1 abstention.

V-02-359: 947 E. Rock Springs. Application for variance to reduce side yard setback from 7 feet to 2 feet to allow for swimming pool installation and variance to increase paved area in required yard from 33% to 42% to expand existing driveway. Withdrawing second variance request. With respect to first, Committee imposed conditions of stone treatment to dissipate water released from the point discharge and that written approval be received from neighbors on both sides. Passed 6 in favor with 1 abstention. Suggestion made to withdraw request for variance and apply for building permit to build retaining wall. Motion made to support withdrawal of application; passed with 2 abstentions.

V-02-362: 1733 Inverness Avenue. Application for variance to reduce side yard setback from 7 to 2 feet and the rear yard setback from 15 to 2 feet to allow for addition of detached garage and a variance to reduce other side yard setback from 7 to 3 feet for addition to single family residence. Committee made motion to recommend approval with conditions: height from the slab to peak limited to 16 feet; plumbing limited to hose bib; electrical service limited to 60 amps; and submitted plans be amended to show the height limited to 16 feet. Site plan needs to be amended to take out pad in front and concrete in back because otherwise would violate impervious percentage. By changing plans, eliminated second part of variance. Motion made to recommend approval with site plan dated 1/13/03 and contingent upon all concrete not shown on site plan be removed, including apparently illegal pad in front yard. Passed with 1 abstention.

Membership: Joelle Spain reported. Renewals still coming in. Last count was 490 Security Patrol members and @ 350 MLPA-only members. Results of Street Captain Contest will be announced soon.

Newsletter: Van Hall reported. There will be a newsletter coming out soon. Daniel Cherrix asked Van to announce Concert at Morningside Presbyterian on Monday 2/3 by Atlanta Symphony.

Parks: Karen Schaefer reported. Annual tree planting will be Saturday 2/8. Expect to be planting about 50 trees, some of which will be along Wildwood Gardens. Meet in Church parking lot @ 9:00 am.

Beautification: no report.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. Next CINS meeting will be at 7:00 pm at Mary Lin Elementary.

Special Events: no report.

Tour of Homes: Charla Silvia and Stephanie Marinac will lead. Focus will be on kitchens.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported. Senator-elect Sam Zamarripa got Dianne and Bill into a meeting with key State DOT officials to seek funding and coalition for traffic calming. More meetings are in the works. MARTA "Task Force" met 12/17 to begins plans for communications with MARTA about Routes 16, 36, and 45. Next meeting is tomorrow night at 7, just before the regular Traffic Committee meeting. Bill is meeting tomorrow with the Principal and the PTA President of Morningside Elementary to begin coordinating events and communications. Thanks to Mike McCool for opening this door. Bill joined Major Spillane's Citizen's Advisory committee. Major Spillane is developing plans and possibly a proposal to increase traffic enforcement in Zone 2 neighborhoods. More can be discussed next month. Frederick Werner of the US DOT and Jeff Breedlove, who works with the State legislature, will be joining the Traffic Committee. Bill's computer crashed on December 30, wiping out all files; he begs your patience while he reconstructs information. Of all the requests made to BTTS in July and October, only one (repair of a downed speed limit sign) has been met. Today we were informed that all three all-way stop intersection requests failed the volume test; we believe the data are flawed. Bill officially asked for the intervention of Anne Fauver's office.

North MLPA/Sidewalks: no report.

Treasurer's Report: Ruth Alexander reported. 2002 report presented for Association and Security Patrol. 2003 budget presented. Motion made to approve the budget as presented. Seconded and passed with 1 abstention.

Mike Banick and Norman McKay spoke on liability insurance investigation for MLPA/MSP; will need to be resolved soon; membership trend will be charted to show that size of organization has not increased dramatically in attempt to avoid premium increase.

New business: extensive discussion regarding at what point in the monthly meeting the zoning committee report should take place. Many various positions expressed, including whether or not the presence of a lawyer for the applicant should make a difference.

Meeting adjourned at @ 9 pm.

December 9, 2002 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes

Board members present: Dianne Olansky, Norman McKay, Ruth Alexander, Bob Silvia, Martha Porter Hall, Mike Carew, Trav Carter, Bill Ellis, Lee Kintzel, Joelle Spain, Charlotte Gillis, Kerry Brown, Steve Rowell, Karen Schaefer, Mae Reich, John Schwartz.

President Olansky convened the meeting at approximately 7:35 pm. Motion was made to approve the Minutes of the November 2002 meeting. Motion was seconded and passed.

President Olansky recognized Janet Kishbaugh from Councilmember Anne Fauver's office.

Committee reports:

Security Patrol: Mike Carew reported that the Morningside Security Patrol is celebrating its tenth anniversary. He presented certificates of appreciation and Home Depot gift certificates to the following members of the patrol: Investigator Ricardo Vazquez, Sgt. Ben McGee and Officer Eric Boone. Detective Vazquez reported that after a period of heightened burglaries, the Decatur Police Department arrested a white male suspect with a "mullet" haircut, charged him with six burglaries and were able to connect him to several burglaries in Morningside. Perhaps as a result of this arrest, burglaries dropped from 6 in a month to 1. Detective Vazquez stated that a witness to one of the burglaries in our neighborhood did not call 911. One of the factors determining how law enforcement personnel are distributed is the amount of criminal activity taking place. If we don't report this stuff, we won't get coverage. Bob Silvia stated that we need new MSP front yard signs. The cost will be $6,300 for 1,000 signs. Motion was made to purchase the signs. Motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

Membership: Joelle Spain reported that the membership drive is going well. The committee has mailed 4,000 membership packages and has about 1,000 left. Joelle made a motion that she be reimbursed for $587.10 for postage. The motion was seconded and approved unanimously. We have acquired 21 new security patrol members. We currently have 250 MSP members and another 50 or so MLPA only members. Joelle reported that approximately 46 of the members wanted to volunteer for a committee.

Newsletter: Martha Porter Hall reported that the newsletter has a new business manager, Mitzi Rothman.

Parks: Karen Schaefer stated that the group that is raising money to replace the playground equipment in Sidney Marcus Park has raised approximately $20,000. Winston Jones reported for the Wildwood Urban Forest Group. They're looking for steering committee members, especially an attorney. Charlotte Gillis stated that the City has rehired the four arborists whose positions had been abolished. Trees Atlanta will sponsor a tree planting in Morningside on Saturday, February 8, 2003.
Beautification: Kerry Brown reported that she has decorated the neighborhood markers with holiday wreaths. There will be a work session at Woodrow Wilson Park on Saturday, December 14 at 3 p.m. Volunteers may keep clipped holly for decorations.

Traffic: Bill Ellis said that he has had difficulty communicating with the Morningside Elementary School and the PTSA about traffic events. It would make sense for two organizations in the neighborhood who have traffic concerns to be communicating. A small resident task force will meet next week to begin communicating with MARTA about bus scheduling in the neighborhood. Bill and Dianne met with Major Spillane of Zone 2 and have learned that traffic enforcement is not officially a duty of the Zones; it falls to Special Operations and there are no standards that must be met. This would be unacceptable to most citizens if they knew. Dianne and Bill are going to meet with new APD Chief Pennington and our councilpersons as soon as a mutually satisfactory time can be determined.

Sidewalks: Lee Kintzel has produced a leaflet about the MLPA sidewalk replacement grant program and has begun distributing them at residences whose walks are especially egregious. Bob Silvia asked if anyone knew of any plans to reinstall the three sidewalks along Cumberland Road that have been destroyed in the process of fiber optic cable installation. No one seems to have a clue.

Treasurer's Report: Ruth Alexander distributed copies of the monthly report. She made a motion that we contribute $1,300 to Morningside Presbyterian Church. The motion was seconded and approved unanimously. Our liability insurance carrier has concerns about our security patrol officers carrying weapons. Bill Ellis suggested that we ask MLPA Vice President Mike Banick, who specialized in contract law, to examine our insurance policy. Motion made to reimburse Mike Carew for $300 for the Home Depot gift certificates for the patrol officers listed above. Seconded and passed. Motion also made that we reimburse Mike Carew in an amount not to exceed $1,600 for end of the year bonuses for MSP officers. The motion was seconded and approved unanimously.

Zoning: Steve Rowell reported on the following:

V-02-308, 1356 Wayne Avenue - A variance to reduce the side yard setback from 7 ft. (required) to 1 ft. to allow for an addition to a detached garage. Motion to recommend approval with the following conditions: electrical service will be limited to 60 amps; plumbing will be limited to a hose bib; height is limited to 16 ft.; implementation of the site plan submitted, dated 10/24/02. Motion to approve, seconded, passed.

V-02-338, 805 E. Morningside Drive - A variance to reduce the east side yard setback from 7 ft. (required) to 3ft. and the rear side yard setback from 15 ft. to 3 ft. to allow for construction of a detached garage. Motion to recommend approval with the following conditions: electrical service will be limited to 60 amps; plumbing will be limited to a hose bib; height of the structure will not exceed 16 ft.; height of the cupola will not exceed 3 ft. above the peak of the roof; implementation of the site plan submitted, dated 8/22/02; and written consent from all adjacent neighbors will be obtained by the NPU-F meeting on December 16, 2002. Motion was seconded and passed.

New Business
Deux Plex - At the NPU-F meeting last month, the new owner was asked to appear before the MLPA Board but did not attend the meeting. A motion was made to ask the NPU to postpone action until the owner comes to MLPA with his/her plans for the club. Motion passed.

Trav Carter suggested we move the zoning issues to the front of the monthly meeting agenda.

President Olansky called for a date for the 2003 Budget Meeting. After discussion, the Board set the date of Sunday, January 12, 2:00 PM, at the President's home.

Meeting adjourned.

November11, 2002 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes - draft

MLPA Board Members in Attendance:
Norman McKay, Bob Silvia, Ruth Alexander, Mike Carew, Joelle Spain, Jon Schwartz, Kerry Brown, Bill Ellis, Joe Giardina, Steve Rowell, Pat Gardner, Mae Reich, Trav Carter, Mike Banick, Karen Schaefer

1. Norman McKay (chairing the meeting in President Dianne Olansky's absence) opened the November meeting at 7:32 PM on November 11, 2002. Bob Silvia took minutes.

2. The October meeting minutes were approved with no changes.

3. Council Member Anne Fauver reviewed the following:

A. Sanitation schedule. If your trash is scheduled to be picked up on either Monday or Tuesday then your rubbish pickup will be the 1st and 3rd week of the month. We are not supposed to put out bags of leaves, branches, etc. until the day of pickup.

B. Special events ordinance - it's a work in progress. Original was not well received due to high up front costs.

C. Budget. The hearings with Department Heads starts on 11/14/02. Council expects to have a budget to present by the first week of December. There will be a hearing on the budget on 11/20/02 at Grady High School from 6pm to 8pm. Proposed cost curtailment measures: police department will be saving money by taking suspects they arrest directly to the Counties' jails, saving millions from the City's budget. A total of 112 jobs have been eliminated in the draft, but that consists of 50 vacant jobs being done away with and another 32 jobs which will simply be funded with someone else's budget.

Norman also recognized and congratulated Board member and MLPA member Pat Gardner on her re-election as State Representative.

4. Committee Reports

Security Patrol - Mike Carew. Mike reviewed the crime report and reminded everyone that it is available on the website (http://www.mlpa.org). Reminder - it is the Holiday Season and now is the time that many people have items taken from cars. PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE ITEMS IN YOUR CAR! There were 6 burglaries in October. Mike did not know of any particular pattern.

The MLPA picnic was a great time. Police from MSP and from Zone 2. A big thanks to Publics, George's Bar and Grill, and to Dianne, Joelle, Bob and Mike for cooking. At the December meeting Mike will be recognizing the three (3) officers who have been with the MSP since its conception - 10 years ago!

Membership - Joelle Spain. Email was sent out to entire membership. You get 10% off of price if you join MSP prior to 12/31/02 (celebration of 10th Anniversary of MSP). We already have 120 people signed up for MSP. We are also mailing out the renewal reminder notice on Monday 11/18/02. A Big Thanks to Kate Gaddy for doing the artwork for the membership package! Also - thanks to Coldwell Banker for putting the renewal reminder on their sign on Highland.

Newsletter - no report.

Parks - Karen Shaefer. Tree's Atlanta (and anyone else who'd like to volunteer) will be planting trees on 2/8/03. If you'd like to help or if you'd like a tree, contact Karen Shaefer.

Julian Bene reviewed the status of the tree ordinance. New proposal has caps that remove any payment for removal of trees. City Council is to vote on 12/2/02 and after lots of discussion the attached motion was made. (Through a snafu, the motion is not attached to this email message but will be included in the next MLPA email). Vote was 6 for, 1 against and 4 abstain.

Beautification - Kerry Brown. Big Thanks to Leah McKay and everyone else who worked on the Wildwood Gardens cleanup! Kerry is checking with Habersham Gardens to see where they are on refurbishing the traffic circle near Wildwood Gardens park. They are a recurring Tour of Homes sponsor and have graciously agreed to sponor plantings and overall maintenance of the island. Kerry also asked for and got unanimous approval for $700 to place Red, White and Blue holiday wreaths on our Markers.

Schools - Joe Giardina. 11/20/02 is the 25th Anniversary of CINS 12:30 @ Morningside Elementary School. Thank you letter from Grady for the MLPA $1000 donation. Based on a written request from the PTA, Joe requested $1000 for Morningside for scholarship ten (10) Fifth graders to attend the Rock Eagle Trip, an annual tradition at Morningside for the graduating 5th grade class. Motion passed (6 for, 1 against, 3 abstain).

Special Events - Norman for Daniel Cherrix. Last June's Celebration of Summer sponsor pledges still being collected. Event should end up being break even or slight profit. As a part of their ongoing community outreach effort, the ASO will be performing at the Morningside Presbyterian Church on 2/3/03 at 7 PM.

Tour of Homes - no report.

Traffic - Bill Ellis. After five (5) emails, 3 phone calls and intervention by Anne Fauver to finally have their quarterly meeting with the BTSS on Wed. Nov. 13th at 1:30pm at the Bureau of Traffic & Transportation offices downtown. Also met with Lt. Tolson to discuss special operations changes and how it might impact MLPA.

North MLPA/Sidewalks - no report

Treasurer's report - Ruth Alexander. Tax Return for 2001 is available. Insurance renewal time is here. Current policy is $5056.48 and includes the Celebration of Summer but not the separate rider for the Tour of Homes event. Ruth will check with insurance company to check if Board Members are covered (as "actors" while staffing volunteer events, etc.) and determine what, if anything, is excluded. She will renew the policy and answer the questions at the next meeting.

Zoning - Steve Rowell

V-02-270 1117 Zimmer Drive, Dr. Stuart Hoffman. Reduce side setback. Passed via voice vote.

V-020272 1014 McLynn Ave, Joel Craft. Passed via voice vote.

Trav Carter asked that people drive by the DOT on Cheshire Bridge and then email our State Representatives to complain about the razor wire fence that has been erected along the roadway. This industrial looking security fence certainly not in keeping with the much discussed, carefully crafted long term development plan from the Cheshire Bridge Task Force.

New business consisted of the reminder to all of the Budget hearing (see above) at Grady on 11/20/02 and also a reminder that the hearing to hear The Masters Club appeal of the City's sign ordinance violation citation is scheduled for 1 PM 12/6/02 at the BZA downtown.

Meeting ended at ~ 9:30 PM.

September 9, 2002 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes - draft

September 9, 2002 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes (draft)

Board members present: Dianne Olansky, Alan Perry, Bob Silvia, Karen Schaefer, Charlotte Gillis, Steven Rowell, Joe Giardina, Joelle Spain, Ruth Alexander, Norman McKay, Mike Carew, Bill Ellis, Mike Banick, and Mae Reich.

Pres. Olansky convened the meeting at approximately 7:35 pm. Motion made to approve August minutes with correction of Sam Bacote’s first name. Motion seconded and passed.

Councilmember Fauver recognized. Stated her pleasure with City’s new COO and her “can do” attitude. Also stated her pleasure with new City Attorney. Mayor’s reorganization plan is a work in progress; some of it already starting to be implemented.

David Green appeared on behalf of 1640 Piedmont, with permission from Board for matter to be taken out of order because of his travel schedule. This matter came before the Board several months ago and was passed for rezoning as an office. Problem has to do with specialty shops being approved without neighborhood or NPU input. Stated that he is comfortable with clear no restaurant condition. Specialty shop examples given; adult entertainment cannot be included.

Motion made to impose condition that it be allowed only as an office not including clinic or any medical office. Motion failed for lack of a second. Motion made to approve for RLC-C only office and/or specialty shops; seconded. Passed 8-4.

Committee reports:

Security Patrol: Michael Carew reported. Last month: 6 burglaries; 1 auto breakin and 1 grand auto theft. Thief captured in Zone 6 who confessed to 3 burglaries in this neighborhood. Police going to see how many others may be tied to this one perpetrator. Still need to be on alert. Belief that more than one group responsible.

Although somewhat out of the jurisdiction of the Committee, Mike Carew reported that a dead bird was attempted to be reported to the Dead Bird Pickup Line but the voice mailbox was full. Pictures were taken and will be sent to appropriate City and County officials.

Questions regarding shooting at Duex Plex; little information available.

Resident reported a case of missing mail; her identity was then “stolen” and used to open up several credit cards.

Picnic: October 19th is what may become first annual MLPA/MSP Picnic at Lenox-Wildwood Park. 11-2. Surprises being worked on for this picnic.

Membership: Joelle Spain reported. She revisited the Picnic. Used as a kickoff for next year’s membership drive: get new members as well as renewals. Street captains still needed.

Newsletter: report given by Pres. Issue which will focus on the Tour has gone to print and should be in mailboxes before the Tour.

Parks: Karen Schaefer reported. Rock Creek Cleanup is on Saturday October 26 from 9-noon at the Johnson Nature Preserve, Beech Valley Entrance. Join us for this cleanup and bring gloves, shovels, saws or other appropriate tools. Tshirts available to the first 25 volunteers; pizza and drinks for everyone after the cleanup.

Motion made to have MLPA send a letter in support of a comprehensive revision of the Tree Ordinance that would strengthen enforcement in residential neighborhoods, with Tom Kowalski as the MLPA representative. Passed unanimously. Task Force already working on a rewrite. Questions regarding piecemeal revisions as opposed to rewrite.

Sidney Marcus playscape slated for removal; adjoining neighbors getting together; funding committee formed; commitment obtained from City; progess being made.

Beautification: Kerry Brown reported. 10/19 cleanup at Wildwood Gardens, beginning at 9. (Make it a day for the neighborhood: clean up and then picnic!)

Cumberland/Sherwood island will be sponsored by Daniel Cherrix of Harry Norman. Focus on one area each year, with particular areas of emphasis in spring and fall. Trying not to be so diffuse in effort. Plan being developed for Wilson Park. Motion made for $250 to spend on that park. Seconded. Covered by budget. Passed. Frequent Tour of Homes sponsor Habersham Gardens lined up for sponsorship of traffic circle, thanks to work of Beth and Tim Payne and followup by Leah McKay.

Les Spencer , Scoutmaster, recognized. Flagpole dedicated at greenspace near corner of Piedmont and Monroe; Cong. Lewis obtained flag for pole that flew over Capitol. Landscaping and a bench are planned. Monies and in-kind contributions already collected by Scouts. Motion made to approve $500 contribution for flagpole. Passed.

Special Events: Pres. reported on behalf of Daniel Cherrix. An additional $2500 collected from Celebration of Summer sponsors.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. CINS meeting on 9/18. Morningside Elementary wrapping paper sale “wrapping up.” Inman fundraiser: magazine subscription sale. Grady High School trying to put together advisory book to hand out to freshmen about how to choose high school courses. Seeking $1000 from MLPA. Amount is in budget. Motion made, seconded, and passed unanimously.

Tour of Homes still needs “Friends” at $100. Email lindasr@mindspring.com for additional information or send checks (better not leave them in your mailboxes) to MLPA Tour of Homes, P.O. Box 8156, Atlanta GA 31106.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported. On 9/24, Bill and Dianne Olansky are meeting with state and city officials on potential funding sources for our traffic project. Milling on E. Rock Springs is NOT a traffic control device but is a prerequisite to repaving. Lack of coordination between City which does milling and DOT which provides funds for repaving. Measurements taken on 8/19 for 3 or 4-way stops at Lenox-Wildwood, Johnson-Meadowdale and Cumberland-N. Morningside.

North MLPA/Sidewalks: no report.

Treasurer’s Report: Ruth Alexander reported. Request made for information on sponsors so that income can be properly credited.

Zoning: Steven Rowell reported.

V-02-189; 1652 Noble Drive. Motion made to deny application based upon statement by applicant that he will withdraw application. Seconded. Motion amended simply to recommend denial. Seconded. Passed unanimously.

V-02-225: 1309 Lanier Blvd. Variance sought to reduce east side yard setback from 7 feet to 1 foot to allow for 2nd story addition to existing home. Committee voted to recommend approval of 3.2 foot east side yard setback and garage with following criteria: height limited to 16', plumbing limited to hose bib, electrical service limited to 60 amps, and footprint as shown on plan submitted (received by City on 8/5/02). Motion made and seconded. 5 in favor, none opposed, 3 abstentions.

V-02-242: 1271 Avalon Place. Application for variance to reduce side yard setback from 7 feet to 2.2 feet to allow for 2nd story to existing residence. Footprint of home not being changed. Committee voted to recommend approval per site plan dated 9/1/02 and plat dated 4/5/99. Motion made and seconded and passed.

V-02-248: 1811 Lenox Road. Application for variance to increase the total floor area from maximum allowable of 30% to 36% to allow for the construction of a 2-story garage. Architect disagrees with City’s interpretation. Committee voted to recommend approval with condition that garage never be used as a rental unit based upon the fact that the City made an error in granting the permit and that the structure was built according to the permit.

Candidates present: Mike Crifasi running for House District 42, certified financial planner. Maria Teresa Bips, physician’s assistant, also running for House District 42. Hank Schwab with 30 years of working for neighborhood preservation also running for House District 42.

Meeting adjourned at 9:20 pm.

August 8, 2002 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes

MLPA Board Meeting Minutes, August 10, 2002

Board members attending: Dianne Olansky, Norman McKay, Ruth Alexander, Bill Ellis, Martha Porter Hall, Van Hall, Bruce Maloy, Mike Carew, Karen Schaefer, Charlotte Gillis, Steve Rowell, Daniel Cherrix, Mae Reich, Trav Carter, Bob Silvia, Joe Giardina, Pat Gardner. Candidates attending: Kathy Ashe, Tom Bacote, Nick Moriatakis, Hank Schwab, and Sam Zamarippa.

Call to Order: President Olansky called the meeting to order at 7:33 p.m. She introduced Janet Kishbaugh from Councilmember Anne Fauver's office. Janet stated that she had brought copies of a petition asking the Federal Government to help with the funding for the City's sewer separation project and distributed copies of the petition.

Approval of July 8, 2002 minutes: A motion was made to approve the minutes of the July meeting. The motion was seconded and approved unanimously.

Committee Reports:

Security Patrol: Mike Carew reported that the 2002 crime wave is continuing. We have had three car break-ins, three grand theft auto cases and nine burglaries. The Morningside Security Patrol is coordinating deterrent efforts with Major Spillane and his staff at Zone 2. We have had an increase in presence of plainclothes officers as well as patrol officers. President Olansky stated that the Association has sent out several emails and two OneCall messages about alerting residents to the increase in criminal activity. A resident expressed her appreciation for the MLPA OneCall message.

The security Patrol will have a "Meet'n'Greet" event on Saturday, August 24 at the Morningside Farmers Market, and again on November 9 at a place TBA. There will be a neighborhood picnic, sponsored by MLPA, in Lenox-Wildwood Park. The MSP and Zone 2 officers will participate. Free hot dogs, face painting and fun for the whole family. Saturday, Oct. 19, 11a.m.-1p.m.

Membership: No report.

Newsletter: Van Hall reported that there is an outstanding charge of $3,520.75 for printing and mailing of the Summer issue of the newsletter. Motion was made to recommend approval of the expense. Motion was seconded and approved unanimously. The next issue of the newsletter will focus on the annual Tour of Homes.

Parks: Charlotte Gillis reminded us to water trees during the current drought. Charlotte reported construction at 1050 McLynn Avenue, where the developer, Dennis McConnell, (404) 787-3080, has removed trees and not replaced the removed trees, as he was required - by law - to do. Motion was made to send a letter requesting that the developer comply with the law. Motion passed unanimously. Charlotte also reported that there will be a tree planting on February 8, 2003. Sidney Marcus Park play equipment - Karen Schaefer is organizing a drive to raise funds to replace the playground equipment. David Robertson and Trees Atlanta watered Marcus Park on Saturday, August 10.

Beautification: Pat Gardner reported that they have a plan for Wilson Park. The Committee plans to spend half their annual budget on the park because it is such an important location in the neighborhood and because it needs help so much.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported that school has started. CINS will meet on Wednesday, September 18. Inman Middle School sent their thanks for our contribution.

Special Events: Daniel Cherrix reported that Celebration of Summer was a great success. We saw a bigger turnout, more sponsors and more volunteers. Daniel expressed appreciation to the volunteers, many of whom were in attendance. At the time of the meeting, the event was $2800 in the red, but there has been only partial payment from the sponsors. Daniel committed to urging the recalcitrant sponsors to come across. Several attendees expressed support for establishing a designated space for water play at future Celebration of Summer events.

Tour of Homes: President Olansky reported for Zac Pasmanick that all homes are selected. There is still a great need for volunteers. Please contact Zac at (404) 874-7653, x109.

Traffic: Bill Ellis pointed out that the speed-checking device (trailer) has been on Highland Avenue. He trusts that many of us were surprised. He stated that David Turkheimer, 1445 N. Highland, has spent a lot of time turning the URS traffic data into a user-friendly and usable format. President Olansky is diligently and intensely pursuing funding to implement the URS study. The MLPA participated in a traffic slow-down at Highland and Reeder on July 30. Some residents were not pleased, but most were very grateful.

Sidewalks: No report.

Treasurer's Report: Ruth Alexander, Treasurer, made a motion to donate $1,300 to Morningside Presbyterian Church in appreciation of their support of the MLPA. Motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

Zoning: Steve Rowell, Co-Chairman of the Zoning Committee reported.

V-02-189, 1652 Noble Drive - The applicant has not attended either of two Zoning Committee meetings, which included his project on the Agenda. He also did not attend the last MLPA Board meeting, or this meeting. A next door neighbor reported that he had discussed the purpose of the meetings and the need of an applicant to attend the meeting. Motion was made to recommend denial. The motion was seconded and voted on, 8 in favor, 0 opposed, 2 abstentions.

V-02-197, 1235 Pasadena Avenue - The applicant has letters of support from neighbors. The construction will be done on the existing pad. Motion was made to approve on condition that the site plan presented be followed; electrical service be limited to 60 amps; plumbing will be limited to a hose bib; and height of the garage be limited to 16'. The motion passed with one abstention. Other Business - fence at 1153 Cumberland Road, perhaps nonconforming. The fence may be higher than the Zoning Code allows and also appears to violate setback rules. After discussion, the Board decided to ask Steve Rowell to give the concerned neighbor the Building Code Enforcement telephone number so that he could report his concerns.

Tour of Homes: Zac Pasmanick's assistant, Diane Macaluso, reported that Laura Fusellier is in charge of getting volunteers recruited for the Tour and asked that we volunteer and ask others to volunteer. Other than that shortage, plans are going forward.

New Business:

City Sewers: Robert Ashe from Mayor Franklin's office gave a presentation on the plans for sewer separation. The administration is expecting to have to spend $3 billion over the next ten years to bring the sewer system into compliance with Federal regulations. Robbie distributed forms petitioning the Federal government to help with financing of the upgrade and asked that we sign them. He pointed out that water and sewer rates will increase greatly if the City does not get financial assistance from the Feds.

Smith Park Flagpole: Les Spencer, BSA/Cub Scouts reported that the flagpole will be dedicated on Sunday, September 8 at 3 p.m. All residents and neighbors are invited.

City Tree Ordinance - Tom Kowalski lives on N. Highland Avenue and is a member of the City Tree Commission. He feels that the existing ordinance is ambiguous and extremely difficult to enforce and has volunteered to draft a new ordinance. Mr. Kowalski feels that the City Council, and in particular, Cleta Winslow, Chair of the Community Development Committee, should be urged to produce a new Tree Ordinance. After discussion, a motion was made to request that the Co-Chairs of the Parks and the Beautification Committee, and David Robertson, meet with Mr. Kowalski and make a recommendation of action at the next Board meeting. Motion passed unanimously.

Adjourn: The meeting was adjourned at 9:37 p.m.

July 8, 2002 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes

July 8, 2002 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes

Board members present: Dianne Olansky, Susan Drake, Zac Pasmanick, Alan Perry, Bob Silvia, Joe Giardina, Norman McKay, Mike Carew, Charlotte Gillis, Bill Ellis, Mae Reich, Trav Carter, Joelle Spain, Karen Schaefer, Mike Banick and Steven Rowell.

Also present were Helen Robinson, assistant to Council President Woolard, and Janet Kishbaugh, assisttant to Councilmemember Fauver

Pres. Olansky convened the meeting at approximately 7:35 pm. First order of business was approval of the May 2002 minutes as amended and the June 2002 minutes. Moved and approved.

Committee reports:

Security Patrol: Mike Carew and Bob Silvia. May crime stats: 1 auto breakin, 2 car thefts and 6 burglaries. The latter is unusual, for our neighborhood and at this time of the year. Other reports came in of burglaries over the 4th of July weekend and a case of vandalism. Matter has been discussed with Patrol and raised with the Police Department. General agreement that we are being hit harder than usual. Shift of attention may be coming in our favor. Mike is of the opinion that there is more than one group operating in our neighborhood. Heists of property valued over $10,000 at a time have happened. Suggestion made to send out another email. Questions raised about cost of adding another shift during the day.

Motion made to approve reimbursement of costs of One Call security alert message on 6/17 of $213. Seconded and passed.

Newsletter: no report except that potential candidate located for business manager.

Membership: Joelle Spain reported. Hunt for street captains is on. 18-20 volunteers captured. 60% of streets not covered. Volunteers especially needed for major streets. Those major streets include:

Amsterdam from N. Highland to Lanier
Hillpine Dr
Homestead Ave
Johnson Rd
N. Highland
N. Rock Springs

Parks: Karen Schaefer reported. Report that playground furniture at Sidney Marcus Park falling apart and it may be removed. Budget problems of City are such that it may not be replaced or it may take longer than a year. October 12th will be date of tree planting. Let them know of bare spots in neighborhood. Discussion re parking lots not being in compliance with ordinance. Offer of free tree being considered to those willing to come into compliance.

Approval sought of letter being sent to City for enforcement of Tree Protection Ordinance. Motion made and passed.

Suggestion that Members Winslow, Fauver and Schook be copied on this letter.

Issue discussed of boundary trees not being noted on site plans.

Motion made to approve and reimburse for David Robertson's purchase of supplies and stamps in amount of $55.09. Passed.

Beautification: no report.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. They're still out. Thank you letter received from CINS. Request made from Inman Middle School for $1000 to help fund orientation program. This year, program not being funded by City School system. Amount is in budget.

Motion made and approved.

Special Events: no report.

Tour of Homes: Zac Pasmanick reported. Homes will be selected within days. Sponsorship committee just getting started. Another fabulous Tour will take place this year on October 5-6th.

Motion made to approve $750 for stationary and related expenses for Tour of Homes. Seconded and passed.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported. June 18th was meeting with Bureau of Traffic and Transportation. General discussion; 3 all-way stops requested for pedestrian safety. Speed deterrent grids asked to be extended on Lenox Road. Also asked for dedicated turn lights at Rock Springs/Johnson intersection. N. Highland street meeting on June 19th. Well attended for a summer meeting.

Motion made to approve $410 for payment of May and June URS services. Passed.

North MLPA/Sidewalks: no report.

Treasurer's report: no report.

Zoning: Steven Rowell reported.

V-02-124: 742 Courtenay Court: application withdrawn.

Z-02-43: 1640 Piedmont Road. Site is in Piedmont Heights but within 300 feet of our neighborhood. Rezoning requested from RG-2 to RL-C. Property cannot be used because of past illegal commercial use over 46 years. Presently 11 parking spaces. Motion made to recommend approval with same stipulations that Piedmont Heights imposed on rezoning, that secretary believes to be that footprint remains the same and that no restaurant be allowed. Passed with one opposed.

U-02-17: 1301 Monroe Drive, 690 Courtenay Drive, 678 Courtenay Drive. Application seeking consolidation of these properties and a special use permit to allow for renovations and additions to existing facilities. Properties are being used for residential/educational facility for disadvantaged kids under the name of Hillside. Facility open for visits by neighbors; community luncheons offered on a regular basis. No negative neighborhood comments after flyering. Motion made to approve conditioned upon site plan dated 6/7/02 and all delivery traffic be off Monroe Drive. Passed unanimously.

V-02-189: 1652 Noble Drive. Application made for variance to reduce side yard setback from 7 feet to 4 feet to allow for two-story addition. Applicant did not show at Zoning Committee and then did not show this evening. Neighbors present seeking information. Motion made to defer to the NPU meeting and request that it be returned to the MLPA Zoning Committee and the MLPA Board for hearing. Seconded and passed.

New Business: MLPA needs a new NPU-F representative. Temporary position (until next Annual Meeting).

Old Business: Susan Drake reported that a Home Depot air conditioner costing $495 plus tax has been located. Maytag 24000 BTU. Presbyterian men will install it if we buy it. Approval already obtained.

Pres-elect McKay reported on annual fundraising drive 02/03. Draft circulated for comment.

President adjourned the meeting at @ 9:00 pm.

ALSO FYI:
Visit the Atlanta Regional Commission website to view the schedule of upcoming transportation public meetings. At these meetings you will be able to use ARC's new Interactive Project Locator and Mapping System to look up and obtain detailed information on transportation projects in any part of the region you're interested in. Also you will learn where transportation money is being programmed and how your earlier comments have been used, learn about transportation studies and initiatives currently underway and learn how you can help relieve traffic congestion and improve air quality. Come and Voice your opinion on regional transportation plans!

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Transportation Public Involvement
Transportation Planning Division
Atlanta Regional Commission
404-463-3272 (Phone)
404-463-3254 (Fax)
404-463-3272 (TTY)
jdovers@atlantaregional.com

MLPA Board Meeting Minutes, June 10, 2002

MLPA Board Meeting Minutes, June 10, 2002

Board members attending: Dianne Olansky, Norman McKay, Mike Banick, Mike Carew, Bob Silvia, Joelle Spain, Van Hall, Martha Porter Hall, Charlotte Gillis, Bill Ellis, Lee Kintzel, Steve Rowell. Also attending: Janet Kishbaugh for Councilmember Anne Fauver.

Call to Order: President Olansky called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m.

Approval of minutes: Minutes of the April 8, 2002 meeting and the April 29, 2002 Annual Meeting were approved. Approval of May 13, 2002 minutes was deferred until the July meeting.

Committee Reports:

Parks: Charlotte Gillis reported that the Parks Committee is implementing a "Green Stewards'" program which will enlist participants to monitor parks, trees, sidewalks and other quality of life aspects of the neighborhood. The Parks Committee is monitoring implementation of the City Tree Ordinance. The Blank Foundation has turned down the "Wildwood Urban Forest" application for this grant cycle but encouraged the Group to apply again. Charlotte moved that we approve an invoice from Trees Atlanta for $100, the cost of two oak trees that were planted on February Parks work day. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

Security Patrol: Mike Carew and Bob Silvia reported that April crime statistics from the Atlanta Police Department stated that we had a total of eight crimes: two auto break-ins and six house break-ins. May had ten crimes: two auto break-ins, five house break-ins, two grand theft auto and one larceny. Mike said that the perpetrator(s) of the house break-ins had apparently been watching for the residents to leave the house unattended. In the half-hour that the resident was gone, they broke in the door and stole a lot of computer stuff, electronics, just about anything valuable and negotiable. Mike urged us to be especially vigilant and by all means report suspicious activity or persons to 911.

Membership: Joelle Spain, our new membership chair, reported on several initiatives that she has undertaken to increase membership of the Association. She will email a welcome to all new members. She is considering sending out an email membership reminder in October, before our annual renewal mailing. Her top priority is to designate street captains, one or more for each street in the neighborhood. This job will entail annual distribution of the Directory and an annual door-to-door membership solicitation drive. Joelle is in the process of developing a welcome package for new residents. She is exploring ideas for a new MLPA T-shirt and asked for design suggestions.

Beautification: No report.

Schools: No report. School's out! But while on this topic, Mike Carew stated that several classes from Morningside Elementary School had had end-of-the-year picnics in Lenox-Wildwood Park. The groups left their trash neatly bagged and stacked close to the trash receptacles, but the City will no longer automatically remove trash from parks after events. As a result, dogs or some other feral creature tore open the bags, strewing the contents and creating a smelly, ugly mess. Mike suggested that Joe Giardina ask the school to ask groups to remove trash after an event.

Special Events: No report, but unanimous approval of Celebration of Summer and thanks to Mike McCool, Dan Cherrix and their hardy corps of volunteers.

Tour of Homes: No report

Traffic: Bill Ellis will meet with the City Bureau of Transportation Services this month. Anne Fauver has asked for suggestions for crosswalks to be striped. The City has issued the last check to MLPA for the URS study. Bill moved that we issue a check to URS for $522.50. The motion was seconded and passed. Bill and Dianne attended a presentation of the proposed Northern Arc. Bill pointed out that the Arc would affect traffic and transportation considerations in our area. Among other things, the Arc would suck a huge portion of governmental traffic funds into it and away from other projects. He urged us to become informed about this issue and to convey our conclusions to the appropriate officials.

North MLPA/Sidewalks: Lee Kintzel reported that two sidewalks have recently been completed and another is under construction. The sidewalk at the intersection of Morningside and Sherwood $1,100 and the one at 733 Cumberland cost $300. Lee moved that we approve no more than $1,500 for the two sidewalks. The motion was seconded and passed.

Treasurer's Report: No report.

Zoning: Steven Rowell presented three zoning cases for consideration.

V-02-124, 742 Courtenay Drive. Jane and Arol Wolford seek a variance to reduce the rear yard setback from 15 feet (required) to 7 feet to allow for an addition (an enclosed lap pool) to a single-family residence. The Zoning Committee recommended a deferral to allow for more negotiation between the applicants and their neighbors. A motion to defer was made and unanimously approved.

V-02-148, 1275 Pasadena Avenue. Nancy Wolk seeks a variance to reduce the rear yard setback from 15 feet (required) to 7 feet to allow for the installation of a new swimming pool. The Zoning Committee recommended approval on condition that the applicant's plan be changed to meet the requirement of no more than 50% lot coverage by impervious surfaces. Motion was made to recommend approval on condition that the applicant's plan be changed to meet the requirement of no more than 50% lot coverage by impervious surfaces. Motion passed, 7 in favor, 1 opposed, no abstentions.

V-02-151, 1676 W. Sussex Road. Andrew and Latrelle Scherffius seek a variance to reduce the half-depth front yard setback from 25 feet (required) to 16 feet to allow for an addition to an existing garage, and to increase the width of a driveway from 20 feet (required) to 26 feet to allow for an extension to the existing driveway. The applicant also seeks a special exception to erect a 4-foot wall in the half-depth front yard where only a 4-foot fence is allowed. The Zoning Committee recommended approval on condition that all dogwood trees that will be removed must be replaced with dogwoods, and that the total caliper of the replacement trees be equal to or greater than the total caliper of the dogwoods removed. So moved, passed unanimously.

Newsletter: Van Hall reported on the status of the summer issue. He than made a motion to approve payment in the amount of $2,587.05 for printing of the spring newsletter. Motion passed unanimously.

New Business: President Olansky stated that she had not received reimbursement for the cost of the OneCall message that was sent out to notify residents about the Annual Meeting. Motion was made to recommend approval of the reimbursement and a grateful Board voted unanimously in favor of the motion.

Old Business: Susan Drake reported on her search for an effective, quiet air conditioner for the Morningside Room of Morningside Presbyterian Church. One firm submitted a bid of $2,447 and Moncrief bid $1,000. Both are considerably higher than we had expected. President Olansky will ask the church and other neighborhoods in the NPU to go in with us on the purchase.

Bill Ellis made a motion that the Association join PEDS (Pedestrians Educating Drivers about Safety) at the $100 level. The motion was approved unanimously.

Adjourn: The meeting was adjourned at 9:27 p.m.

Minutes - May 13, 2002

May 13, 2002 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes

Board members present: Norman McKay, Dianne Olansky, Bob Silvia, Martha Porter Hall, Alan Perry, Pat Gardner, Ruth Alexander, Mike Carew, Mike McCool, Mae Reich, Van Hall, Lee Kintzel, Charlotte Gillis, Susan Drake, Karen Schaefer, Trav Carter, Zac Pasmanick, Steven Rowell, and Joe Giardina

Pres. Olansky called the meeting to order at approximately 7:35 pm.

The usual first order of business, the approval of minutes, had to be postponed at the secretary¹s request because the April minutes had not yet been finalized.

Committee reports

Security Patrol: Michael Carew and Bob Silvia reported. No statistics available for April yet but March¹s showed crime going down: only 2 car breakins and 3 burglaries. One car theft. 2 of the 3 burglaries involved contractors working on home; they were real victims. Suggestion for members of Security Patrol is, if you¹re moving out for renovation purposes, put in a ³vacation² request just as if you were going on vacation and the Patrol will check your house for you. Remember: if problem, call 911.

Membership: no report but transitioning of responsibility is taking place.

Motion made to approve cost of maintaining Tree eagle web site. $173 seconded and passed.

Newsletter: Van Hall reported. 30th anniversary of 485 stoppage is next year, not this year, so next issue will be on zoning.

Parks: Charlotte Gillis and Karen Shaefer reported. Productive meeting of committee recently. To-do list created. Meeting on 5/29 from 7-8:30 on the Northern Arc. WUF made finals of the Blank Foundation grant process. Also had meeting with legislative aide to Mayor. Will see if productive. Sunken Garden Park needs mulch; volunteers needed to spread wood chips before Celebration of Summer.

Beautification: Pat Gardner reported. Attempting to work on picking up slack where City has cut back, such as mowing of small parks. (1/4 acre or less). Deal cut with energetic 16 year old to do some mowing of areas that City no longer touches. More neighbors needed to help.

Schools: last day of school is 5/24. First day of school is 8/12. Come to celebration of summer.

Special Events: Mike McCool reported. Celebration of Summer is still on for 5/31. Sponsors are: Briarcliff Animal Hospital, Daniel Cherrix-Harry Norman Realtors, Harry Norman Realtors, Sally Westmoreland-Coldwell Banker, Fast Signs, Greg Williamson-14 West Realty, Sara Wessling-Allstate Insurance, Olde Town Pizza, Publix at Ansley, Mambo Cubano Restaurante and Home Rebuilders.

We have to pay for trash removal this year instead of the City providing it. Clowns, ponies, band, events (giant slide, etc) total @5900. Sponsorships now @ 3000 and usually around that in ticket income. May spend more on signage since well within budget, dependent upon costs of trash removal. Motion made to approve payment of costs; seconded and passed.

Tour of Homes: Zac Pasmanick reported. Message drafted to be emailed to membership soon. Tour farther along now than in the past. Still need volunteers.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported via report given by Pres. Street meetings held already although turnout light. Meeting with BTTS planned for early June. URS invoice of 1472.50 presented for approval which had already been budgeted. Moved, seconded and passed.

North MLPA/Sidewalks: Lee Kintzel reported. N.Highland sidewalks finished which was one of major goals. Now looking at taking care of rough spots on E. Rock Springs, E. Morningside, and N. Morningside and exploring areas without sidewalks to see what we can do. Committee talking about reimbursement policy and how it should be changed to encourage more sidewalk repair. Discussion re costs and equities of changing program. Motion made to change policy so that MLPA will reimburse 50% of any sidewalk repair approved by Committee. Seconded and passed with one abstention. Discussion re need of committee to stay within annual budget.

Treasurer¹s Report: Ruth Alexander passed out policies regarding reimbursement for MLPA business. Motion made to approve costs of printing membership directory. Need to make sure that insurance coverage exists for celebration of summer. Provisional motion made to allow up to $500 to be spent to ensure coverage of MLPA for event. McKay reported that he believed that there should already be coverage under the existing policy. Ruth to check with principal of agency.

Zoning: Steven Rowell reported. One case:

1287 N. Morningside Drive, V-02-119. Variance sought to reduce rear yard setback from 15 to 2 feet and to reduce side yard setback from 7 feet to 2 feet to allow construction of a detached garage (open carport). Special exception also sought for 6 foot wall in half-depth front yard. Committee recommended approval of variance but denial of special exception. Variance conditioned upon plans. Motion made and passed with one abstention.

New Business

Catalina Pescatore, Morningside Principal; Liz Coyle, PTA President; and APS Project Repr. George Harkness. HVAC being completely replaced at school. Drainage problems also being addressed. Previous plans called for removal of too many trees. Once trees marked, MLPA got involved. Revised plan will only require removal of a few trees.

Batteries Plus: 6 stores in metro Atlanta. One being opened in Ansley at old Rock Springs cleaners. They also do recycling of batteries.

Neighbors reported of 742 Courtenay: tree update. Owners have modified plans and seems to be meeting neighborhood objections. But pattern of City Arborist approving clearly inappropriate plans is disturbing; also need to stay aware of probable rewriting of tree ordinance. Question re support from Councilmember Fauver¹s office; her representative reported on difficulty until you get in front of Commission. Entire neighborhood warned to be vigilant because of problems with Arborist, perhaps the office is too busy? Need to take action before you hear sounds of chain saws.

Old business:

Air conditioner for this room offered to church and we expect that church property committee will accept our offer.

Barclay Place sewer problems: neighbors concerned of sewer problems down Rock Springs.

Mae Reich offered her formal resignation as NPU rep since she is officer now as Parlimentarian and bylaws only allow person to serve in one officer position.

Meeting adjourned at @ 9:00.

Minutes - Annual Meeting - April 29, 2002

MLPA 2002 Annual Meeting held on April 29, 2002

Pres. Olansky convened the Annual Meeting at @ 7:35 and gave her State of the Neigborhood address.

She said that she would tell everyone present what they already knew and that is that the neighborhood was great. While we have problems, such as taxes and traffic, it is still a great place to call home.

Security Patrol: Michael Carew introduced himself, Bob Silvia his cochair, Judy Jameson a committee member and former Security Patrol Chair, and MLPA President and Lead Officer Rick Vasquez. MSP consists of ten uniformed officers patrolling the neighborhood at various times. This is the 10th anniversary of the Security Patrol. Membership: Jodi Mansbach reported. Over 900 members and hoping to break 1000 this year.

Terry Kearns recognized for work on website.

John Schwartz recognized for his work as database coordinator on the Membership Committee.

Newsletter: Van and Martha Porter Hall are editors. Van introduced Susan Drake, lead reporter.

New business manager needed. Volunteer sought.

Parks: Charlotte Gillis reported. 2 persons taking place of moving David Robertson. She will be joined by Karen Schaefer. Linda Rothemel also recognized as an active committee member. Charlotte asked all members/neighbors to protect the green spaces of our neighborhood.

Beautification: Kerry Brown and Pat Gardner, Kerry reported. When green spaces are mowed and contain pretty flowers, that's the result of this committee and the volunteers supporting the work thereof.

Education: Joe Giardina reported. Gave thanks to principals and teachers, CINS and others that resulted in the 3 outstanding public schools that are located in our neighborhood.

Tour of Homes: Zac Pasmanick reported. This year's tour will be October 5-6.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported. Cochair is Bruce Maloy. Goal is to make neighborhood safer to walk and drive in. 4 ways: regular meetings with City officials; regular meetings with police officials; regular communication with city council member's office and working on plan to address collector streets in neighborhood. Volunteers sought for committee.

North MLPA/Sidewalks: rep Lee Kintzel report given by Pres. Olansky. Goal met by sidewalks given repairs; streets, esp. N.Highland, are safer to walk and run on.

Zoning: Steven Rowell reported. Purpose of zoning is to allow some definition and control of neighborhood building. David Garr recognized for his many years of service as Zoning Cochair (he will remain on committee) and new cochair Trav Carter. Pres.

Olansky recognized David Garr and Judy Jameson with neighborhood service awards and announced that David Robertson (on vacation) would also receive such an award.

Pres. Olansky then recognized Lt. Gov. Mark Taylor who complimented the neighborhood for the quality of its leadership and stated that the neighborhood often gets mentioned as a quality place to live in Atlanta. He addressed two issues: improvement of public education and property tax cut (despite budget constraints).

Ross Mansbach then spoke and presented thanks (and flowers) to Pres. Olansky for her past and continuing work as President.

New slate of officers presented. Motion made to elect entire slate; seconded and passed by unanimous voice vote.

Pres. Olansky then addressed the changes in the bylaws. Motion made to approve entire set of changes; seconded and passed by unanimous voice vote.

Additional special guests recognized:

State Rep. Pat Gardner spoke on changes in district, expanding it greatly and giving entire district (including Ansley Park and Buckhead) 4 representatives. 3 incumbents presently and one open seat.

State Sen. Vincent Fort, who will no longer be our senator under the redistricting, spoke on the predatory lending law he introduced which he described as the toughest in the country. Consumer protection provisions of natural gas law addressed.

DeKalb Cty Commissioner Gale Waldorff spoke. She represents district 2 which includes that portion of our neighborhood located in DeKalb County. She addressed greenspace issues and drainage improvements for the intersection of Sheridan and Briarcliff.

Gary Cox, deputy chief operating officer of the City, spoke and apologized for the Mayor's absence but she is dining with and interviewing a potential financial officer candidate. The City is broke but she knows how to make it work.

City Council President Cathy Woolard's Assistant Beth Crowther spoke, apologizing for Pres. Woolard's absence for health reasons (difficulty speaking).

Councilmember Anne Fauver spoke on the state of the district, the city and Anne Fauver. She appreciates the many expressions of support from neighbors. City cabinet members to be appointed soon, including COO, CFO, City Attorney, and Chief of Police.

Councilmember Caesar Mitchell recognized and applauded for not making a speech. APD Zone 2 Major Joseph Spillane spoke on traffic and crime. He urged the neighborhood to contact his department with any crime-related issues.

APD SOS Major Pete Andresen spoke as well. His section includes motorcycle police officers.

Other candidates recognized as well.

Meeting adjourned at 9:00 pm, after the Pres. reminded everyone present to obey the speed limits in our neighborhood.

Minutes April 8, 2002

April 8, 2002 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes

Board members present were Dianne Olansky, Alan Perry, Susan Drake, Bob Silvia, Mike Carew, Ruth Alexander, Bruce Maloy, Joe Giardina, Steven Rowell, Ross Mansbach, Martha Porter Hall, Van Hall, Michael McCool, David Robertson, Mae Reich, Bill Ellis, Pat Gardner, and Norman McKay

Pres. Olansky convened the meeting at approximately 7:35 pm. Motion made to approve the minutes of the March meeting. Seconded and passed. Van Hall spoke initially on a consensus that had developed among various Board members over the past several weeks to the effect that the president-elect would be in charge of developing an annual fund-raising plan and coordinating the fund raising efforts of the various MLPA committees. The new president-elect has agreed to the general concept so the suggestion (set out in full as an appendix below) will be tested in action for a year and then re-visited next year.

Committee Reports:

Security Patrol--Mike Carew and Bob Silvia reported. February's crime stats available but not March's. Only 3 burglaries in February and only 3 car breakins, reduced from January. Officers Elizabeth Walters and Vega are the two new officers. Meeting held with Major Spillane to discuss how better to coordinate Security Patrol efforts with Zone 2 efforts. A presentation will be made at the Annual Meeting. Always REPORT criminal activity by calling 911.

Membership--Ross Mansbach reported on behalf of Jodi that we are now at 841 members, approximately 100 more than last year. Newsletter--Martha Porter Hall reported that the issue is in the mail.

Parks--David Robertson reported. Hoses needed for Beech Valley Park so approval sought and granted for $30. Mulch available now at Lenox Wildwood Park for any MLPA member that wants it. First annual Park Leadership conference to be held at Piedmont Park. Signs announcing the need for permitting of removal of trees are available.

Beautification--no report.

Schools--Joe Giardina reported. No report but introduced a CINS representative. The next CINS meeting will be at noon at Inman on 4/17 with Joe Martin speaking on how state politics affects the Grady school cluster. Debbie Griffiths from CINS sought the support of MLPA again, pointing out that CINS hopes to increase its fundraising from 8000 to 15000 this year. Motion made and passed to donate $1000 to CINS which was part of the budget.

Special Events--Michael McCool reported. Celebration of Summer STILL ON for May 24, the last day of school, from 5:30-8:30. Permit cost of $115 approved. Help needed with sponsorships; goal is to get 12 or more at the $250 level. Carla Holliman is organizing the volunteers which are still needed for the event, for 30 minute shifts. Nancy O'Donnell is helping contact the entertainers and other participants to get them lined up. Bill Ellis is helping out with cleanup, including recycling, after the event. Question regarding popularity of pony rides. Will try to avoid problem of folks in line when event closes at 8:30. Help with publicity needed, to get signs posted.

Tour of Homes--no report.

Traffic--Bill Ellis and Bruce Maloy reported. Next Thursday will be the traffic calming meeting dealing with N. Rock Springs (not the merging intersections with Morningside). Tomorrow will be regular monthly committee meeting. One of issues is use of stop signs. Slowdowns will not be scheduled until a few issues are worked out. Motion made to approve $560 which was covered in the budget. Passed.

Sidewalks: Lee Kintzel reported through the Pres. that the sidewalk work on N.Highland was budgeted by the City of Atlanta some 5 years ago. Question raised on damage to trees caused by this work.

Treasurer's report: by Ruth Alexander. No Committee is over budget yet. Things are looking ok.

Zoning: Steven Rowell reported.

Application no. V-02-101, 1284 Cumberland Rd. Seeking reduction of side yard setback from 7 feet to 3 feet 2-1/4 to allow for addition to single family home (deck). Motion made to recommend approval to reduce setback to 3 feet 11 1/2" with a change to the upper level of the deck so that no portion of the deck encroaches on the 7 foot setback and as per the front and side elevations. Passed with one abstention.

Application no. V-02-107, 744 E. Morningside Drive. Seeking special exception to allow swimming pool to be installed adjacent to a public street. Wall will be installed so that there will be no distraction to the street. Because of height of pool and wall, pool should not be attractive nuisance. After much discussion, motion made to approve application with the condition that the City arborist approve any changes to the previously approved tree replacement plan, as the Zoning Committee had approved unanimously. Seconded and passed, with 5 in favor and 6 abstentions. Question raised re legality of passage given lack of majority of votes in favor.

Resident raising question on Lanier Place residence being used as a duplex. (404) 330-6190 is the number for zoning code enforcement.

Annual Meeting is to be on 4/29. Help solicited from Board with set up and clean up. Bylaws will be available and voted on in their entirety.

Morningside School has reworked its drainage plan so that only 2 trees will be lost instead of the original 17. They will come to next meeting to present their revised plan.

A representative from Anne Fauver's office made herself available for questions.

Meeting adjourned at approximately 9:15 pm.

Appendix:

The duties of the office of president-elect be amended to include the following:

1. To develop an annual fund-raising plan for all MLPA committees. The plan will take into account several factors:

a. The totality of funds needed to be raised by MLPA committees (Tour of Homes, Celebration of Summer), etc.

b. A list of major corporate sponsors expected to support these fund-raising needs.

c. Establishment of various levels of sponsorship available to prospective annual sponsors.

d. A plan of action coordinating the raising of the necessary funds among the various committees.

2. To coordinate the fund raising efforts of the various MLPA committees. The president-elect would coordinate the efforts of various fund-raising volunteers to eliminate duplication of effort, and to secure maximum support from sponsors.

3. To serve on the MLPA finance committee to make sure that budgetary needs and fund-raising resources are effectively balanced.

Minutes March 17, 2002

Board members present were Dianne Olansky, Norman McKay, Martha Hall, Mike Carew, Alan Perry, Jodi Mansbach, Mae Reich, Michael McCool, Bob Silvia, Pat Gardner, David Robertson, David Garr, Susan Drake and Steven Rowell.

President. Olansky called the meeting to order at @ 7:30 pm. Motion made to approve the February minutes. Secretary noted that he transposed a portion of the url for the schools report which will be corrected. With that correction, motion made and passed.

Committee reports:

Security Patrol: Mike Carew reported. February crime stats not available. Burglaries still taking place. Stewarts retiring from Security Patrol. 2 new hires already in place: officers already familiar with neighborhood. Belief that new stickers have been distributed for the signs. Let Mike or Bob know if a member has not received the sticker. Question re "MSP" car parked in parking lot; still may be patrols taking place.

Membership: Jodi Mansbach reported. Membership up to 812. Will close out membership drive at the end of this month.

Newsletter: Martha Hall reported. Hope that issue goes to printers soon. Next issue will address history of 485 fight.

Parks: David Robertson reported. Handout of what is required of parking lot operators. Tree planting for neighborhood successful: 100 trees planted. Sidney Marcus park and Lenox-Wildwood park were two locations. Expenses of plantings moved for approval: 3,464.75. Passed. Park Pride holding conference on 4/11: day event. Attempt to promote parks in the City. WUFG reported that Blank Foundation remains interested in helping them. Still looking for Steering Committee members.

Beautification: Pat Gardner reported. Kerry Brown has the flu. Wildwood Gardens moving forward; also plan being developed for Woodrow Wilson Park.

Special Events: Mike McCool reported. Introduced Daniel Cherrix as the cochair of the committee this year. Again in Sunken Garden Park on 5/24, 5:30-8:30, last day of school.

Tour of Homes: plans moving ahead.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported through Martha Hall. Plan is to hold all Collector Street meetings before Annual Meeting (with URS). Had lunch with Major Andresen on 2/28 on the subject of future "slowdowns" and how to make them more successful. Courtenay speed bumps approved last year but not yet installed. Request made on 3/6 to Anne Fauver's office for help in expediting. Also requested help from that office with respect to sewer on Barclay in need of repair (affects traffic, sidewalks and parks).

Anne Fauver's office reported on work on sidewalks on N.Highland. No patching; pull up and replace. Work should start this week.

Zoning: Steven Rowell reported.

1246 Reeder Circle (V-02-25): reduction of side yard setback from 7 feet to 2 feet on the east side of the property. Committee recommended approval with 5 conditions: height limited to 16 feet, electrical service limited to 60 amps, plumbing limited to hose bib, per plans as submitted, and permission from adjacent neighbor before NPU meeting. Motion made to approve per same conditions; passed unanimously.

559 Dutch Valley Road (V-02-35): special exception seeking reduction of on-site parking for a restaurant from the 65 required by the ordinance to 4 onsite and a minimum of 61 spaces off-site within 500 feet of primary use. Exclusive parking spots for restaurants. Question raised regarding parking lot and tree requirement. Motion made to approve; passed unanimously.

Discussion of 1199 N.Highland Ave. -- SE corner of N.Highland and Amsterdam (right outside our neighborhood). Variance requested of reduction of landscape buffer for rear and side yards to zero. VHCA Board meeting held on 3/6 and NPU meeting will be held on 3/18.

David Garr will be stepping down as cochair of Committee after several years of service. Trav Carter will be stepping in as cochair for next year. Also getting new Zoning Committee members as result of membership drive efforts. Question raised concerning what can be done with neighbors not keeping up their properties. City not responsive. Question concerning ordinance violations. Neighbor advised to work with Anne Fauver's office to see if anything can be done.

Pat Gardner gave a brief legislative report. Budget issues overshadow other issues, as result of declining state revenues over last 8 months. Educational bond issues pending; also other issues regarding students having phones and pagers at school. Prescription plan for needy elderly is one issue she is working on. Is also investigating how the monies flow into the neighborhood from the state (such as DOT). District 47 is a sought after district; it will be expanded to a 4 post district to be called District 42 where there are 3 incumbents and one open slot. New district goes as far north as Sandy Springs.

Old Business:

Atlanta's Comprehensive Dev. Plan Hearing tomorrow 3/12/02 at Inman Middle School 7 pm

Slate of proposed officers discussed. Meeting held recently to discuss issue of sponsorships and how best to approach good big sponsors. Companies with which issue was discussed were definitely interested in being approached only once a year.

Meeting adjourned at @ 8:45 pm.

Minutes February 11, 2002

DRAFT MLPA Board Meeting Minutes, February 11, 2002

President Olansky called the meeting to order at 7:37 p.m.

Board members attending: Ruth Alexander, Kerry Brown, Michael Carew, David Garr, Joe Giardina, Charlotte Gillis, Martha Porter Hall, Van Hall, Jodi Mansbach, Norman McKay, Dianne Olansky, Mae Reich, Steven Rowell.

A motion was made to approve the minutes of the January meeting. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously. Minutes for this meeting taken by Martha Porter Hall as acting Secretary.

Committee Reports:

Security Patrol: Michael Carew introduced Detective Rick Vasquez, lead officer of the Security Patrol, who reported that Morningside has had an increase in burglaries recently. And an arrest! Office Stapler, an MSP officer, checked out the tag of a suspicious vehicle he observed while patrolling for Morningside Security. The vehicle was reported stolen. Officer Conner from Zone 2 and Officer Stapler tracked the vehicle down and arrested the driver. The suspects were delivering stolen items to a pawnshop. An investigator from the Burglary Division of APD is investigating the case; it is to be hoped that this arrest and investigation will resolve some (hopefully, all) of the recent burglaries. On a positive note, vehicle larcenies are dramatically down; instead of the usual 9 to 11 cases per month, we had only one in January. Lead Officer Rick Vazquez has purchased a white Ford Taurus with “Morningside Security” on both sides in reflective letters. (Wave when you see it!) Mike Carew submitted a bill of $945 for printing and postage expense. Motion was made to approve payment of the bill; motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

Membership: Jodi Mansbach reported that we have approximately 750 members. She has organized the list of members in 2000 who did not renew membership into lists of ten to twelve names and asked for volunteers to make follow-up calls. After distributing the lists to a hardy cadre of workers, Jodi recommended that we also send a second renewal notice to the nonrenewals. The mailing would cost around $200. A motion was made to approve the expense; it was seconded and passed unanimously.

Newsletter: Van Hall reported that the winter issue of the MLPA News is in the mail. The next issue will focus on “The Greening of Morningside,” reporting on parks, gardening, tree planting – green stuff. The deadline for submitting items for publication is March 1. The newsletter will also have information about the Annual Meeting (Monday, April 29, 7:30 p.m.) and Celebration of Summer (Friday, May 24, 5-8 p.m.). Van submitted a bill for $2,822.80 for printing of the newsletter. Motion was made to approve payment of the bill; the motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

Parks: Charlotte Gillis stated that, in partnership with Trees Atlanta, we have scheduled a tree planting on Saturday, February 23, 9 a.m., at Sidney Marcus Park and at Lenox-Wildwood Park. Norman McKay reported that Arthur Cohen of Tecton Construction has agreed to donate labor for the installation in the spring of the planned bridge at the eastern end of Wildwood Gardens.

Beautification: Kerry Brown has contacted Intown Hardware who has agreed to give MLPA a 20% discount on planting supplies for our green spaces. Anyone who will buy equipment for MLPA beautification should contact Kerry to arrange to get the discount.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported on the 2001-2002 ranking of Georgia public schools that is done by the Georgia Department of Education. Morningside Elementary is ranked at number 8 out of 1,100 grammar schools around the state; Inman Middle is 5 out of 427 middle schools; and Grady High is rated 8 out of 340 high schools. The complete report can be found on the Internet at http://accountability.doe.k12.gaus/Report01/default.html. Joe urged people who are interested in the public schools to attend the March 13 CINS meeting, at noon at C.W. Hill School. There will be a report and discussion of the “Build Smart” program.

Special Events: President Olansky reported for Mike McCool. Mike is recruiting volunteers for Celebration of Summer, May 24, and is also searching for a Co-Chair. Mike can be contacted at home, (404) 872-3633, or email at mjmccoll@mindspring.com.

Tour of Homes: President Olansky reported for Zac Pasmanick that plans are moving forward for the 2002 Tour.

Traffic: President Olansky reported for Bill Ellis and Bruce Maloy. They met with URS n January 31 about moving forward with the results of the traffic study. The first street meeting will address North Rock Springs Road and will be scheduled as soon as new URS drawings for North Rock Springs are complete. The Board approved a payment request for $523 for URS. The committee has met with Anne Fauver’s staff about several issues. During the Traffic Committee sponsored SlowDown on February 8, several occurrences pointed out the difficulty of enforcing existing pedestrian and crosswalk laws. Members of the Committee will meet with Major Andersen, head of Special Operations with APD, to discuss how to focus on and address these issues at the next SlowDown.

Sidewalks: President Olansky reported for Lee Kintzel, who is looking for a co-chair.

Treasurer’s Report: Ruth Alexander distributed the monthly financial report and stated that during the period October 1, 2001 to February 11, 2002, we have received $13,596 in MLPA memberships and $59,924 in Security Patrol memberships. Ruth would like to open a Vanguard money market account that would pay interest for the Security Patrol funds. Motion was made to do so; motion seconded and passed.

Zoning: To the dismay and regret of all present, there were no zoning issues. Let’s all hope for a better time next month.

Miscellaneous: the Nominating Committee will meet on Wednesday, February 27. We need Co-Chairs for the following committees: Membership, Parks, Special Events, Zoning, and North MLPA (Sidewalks). Recommendations and suggestions will be welcome.

New Business:

Sam Zamarippa, candidate for Georgia Senate District 36, expressed his interest in the support of Morningside residents.

President Olansky stated that the Executive Board of Neighborhood Planning Unit F is compiling a list of requests to be submitted for insertion in the City of Atlanta 2002 Comprehensive Development Plan. She asked for suggestions.

The City of Atlanta is holding a public hearing on the proposed City budget for 2002 in City Council Chambers on Tuesday, February 12, at 7 p.m.

The Intown Women’s Group will hold an art auction on April 11. More info to come next month.

There being no more business, motion was made to adjourn. Motion was seconded and passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 8:52 p.m.

Minutes, January 14, 2002

January 14, 2002 MLPA Board Meeting Minutes Meeting called to order at @ 7:32 pm by Pres. Olansky.

Board members present were Dianne Olansky, Martha Porter Hall, Mike Carew, Kerry Brown, Mae Reich, David Garr, Ruth Alexander, Lee Kintzel, Joe Giardina, Michael McCool, Steven Rowell, Norman McKay, Susan Drake, Alan Perry, and Charlotte Gillis.

December 2001 minutes moved for approval; seconded and passed.

Committee reports

Security Patrol: Mike Carew reported. Overall 13 reported crimes last month (down from last month) but that included 7 house breakins. Also another breakin not included within that statistic. Officer Stewart injured while chasing perpetrator. Everyone wishes him well.

Membership: Jodi Mansbach reported via the President because of a conflict. Pretty good response so far with membership drive: 675 new and renewal members from drive now totaling over 700 for total 2002 membership. Under consideration now is how best to do follow up. Suggestion is for a "one call" call about a week after newsletter is delivered. Another suggestion is to call people you know personally. Question re going door to door with street captains but we lost the person who was going to head that up.

Newsletter: Martha Hall reported. Present newsletter will be on Public Safety and should go to printer soon. Next issue will be on "Green" in Morningside. It will also contain notice of the annual meeting.

Parks: no report. Request from Charlotte from Parks Committee for letter of support to go with letter of intent from WUFG to Arthur Blank for permission to apply for grant. Beautification: no report.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. Next CINS meeting this Wednesday at Walden Middle School at 7 pm. 1/24 meeting at Inman Middle School for "Build Smart" and how that program might impact Inman and Grady. 6 pm.

Special Events: Michael McCool reported. Celebration of Summer will be held again on last day of school. Committees already formed and Nancy Odonnell and Carla Holliman helping out with key committees already. Sponsors Committee needs chair. Most importantly, Cochair of event needed. Please get in touch with Michael if you are interested in chairing a committee; contact Carla if you are willing to volunteer at the event.

Tour of Homes: no report.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported via email report through President. Work going on building consensus on collector streets via URS study. Pilot consensus-building for N. Rock Springs will be held at the home of Rhonda and Robert McIntosh tentatively planned for 1/31. Mini slowdown at corner of Reeder and N.Highland worked great. Cars ticketed that did not yield to pedestrians.

North MLPA/Sidewalks: Lee Kintzel reported. Monies reportedly still there for Ponce to University sidewalks. But timetable pushed back with new administration.

Treasurer: Ruth Alexander reported. Budget presented for 2002 that was developed at a lengthy budget meeting yesterday at the president's house. Discussion about budgets for both MLPA and MSP cut into the surplus that each entity has present. Also discussion re need to increase membership in both entities.

Terry Kearns presented briefly on the website. Visits need to be increased to website for comments. Board needs to send input to be posted to Board. Everyone encouraged to visit and comment.

Zoning: Steven Rowell reported.

Z-01-95: 2030 Rockledge Rd. Motion made to approve application for rezoning from R4 to R-LC. Very little residential is left on the street, with only one owner-occupant remaining. Rezoning of next door properties approved in 2000. Per the recommendation of the Zoning Committee, motion approved with condition that no adult businesses (with multiple definitions of same) take place therein.

V-01-412: 1785 N. Rock Springs Rd. Application for variance for a parking pad in front yard. Motion made to deny per the recommendation of the Zoning Committee. Opinion expressed that neighborhood usually does its best to see that no parking allowed in front yard. Motion passed.

Question re necessity for sign showing Notice of Issuance of Building Permit; necessity discussed so that neighborhood knows about impending construction.

New Business: Debbie McCown from Piedmont Park Conservancy presented. First project is an off-leash area for dogs. 10th street meadows area will be closed this spring for renovation. Proposal is to designate off-leash area and enforce leash law elsewhere in Park. Explosion in use of park since this was discussed in 1999.

Also assisting in report were John Webster, Kathryn Kennith, Corinne Powell and Chris Nelson. About use of presently-unused area to north of park drive bridge over RR tracks. Because of natural boundaries and necessity for fencing, this area seems the logical choice. The off duty police funded by the Conservancy will take a harder position on leash laws once they have this area in place. Plan already endorsed by NPU-E and Virginia-Highlands Board has as well. City ordinance will have to be changed. Motion made for Board's support of project; passed with one abstention. Update: Community Center almost finished. Grand opening will be this spring. Meadow project will start this spring and, when finished, will be like Oak Hill. Meadow will be regraded to allow for better drainage. Lake being renovated presently. Plan is for it to be finished this summer. Question re spring events. They will be held on the ball fields and elsewhere (not Oak Hill). Also, event organizers are on notice that they will be held accountable for damage from their events. Second project is to establish a community garden in the park. Idea evolved out of environmental education program. Locations investigated; best appears to be on Halpern property: available water, restrooms. Atlanta Public Works has expressed willingness to work with Conservancy on this project. Landscape architect has volunteered; seed money also available. Question re testing of soil to make sure that it is adequate for this purpose. They are testing the soil now. Several different kinds of gardens, including demonstration gardens, could be available in this one acre.

Present are the owners of the new Indigo Restaurant: Jean Marc Carelle will be the chef. French touch with Caribbean (where he lived for several years). Patrick Molesti also present. Opened in early February. Aiming for a regular restaurant, not just for special meals.

Janet Kishbaugh from Anne Fauver's office present at the meeting. 4/330-6049: afauver@ci.atlanta.ga

ANNOUNCEMENTS

At 6:30 AM, Tuesday, 2/5, an attempt was made to break-into a home and its garage in the Johnson Estates area. The doors were locked and the attempt was foiled. The residents were home at the time and were just getting up for the day and did not see the person or persons. Residents are reminded to keep alert, make sure their homes and cars are secure and to call 911 if something similar occurs to them or if they see anything suspicious. The police need to be alerted to these situations. Our own Security Patrol has also been alerted. Hopefully, this was an isolated incident but it never hurts to be aware.

Tree Planting: Time once again to have our annual MLPA tree planting and mulching of trees in the parks. This year it will be held on February 23, 2002, Saturday at 9am. We are meeting at two parks this year so pick your favorite park to work on and bring your gloves. Some tools provided. Park locations are Lenox / Wildwood Park at 1760 Lenox Rd. and Sidney Marcus Park at 786 Cumberland Rd. Rain or shine. MLPA works with Trees Atlanta www.treesatlanta.org in coordinating the big task of keeping the neighborhood forested. Park trees are planted as well as street tree plantings. If you would like a free street tree or one for your front yard you can sign up for one at Treeeagle.org. The treeeagle web site is sponsored by MLPA to promote tree care and protection. The tree ordinance is also located at this site.

Meeting adjourned at @ 9:05 pm.

Minutes December 10, 2001

President Olansky convened the meeting at approximately 7:35 pm.

Board members present were Dianne Olansky, Martha Porter Hall, Susan Drake, Bob Silvia, Norman McKay, Alan Perry, Bruce Maloy, Joe Giardina, Mike Carew, Kerry Brown, Lee Kintzel, Steven Rowell, Ruth Alexander and Mae Reich.

Motion made to approve November minutes. Seconded and passed.

Committee reports

Security Patrol: Bob Silvia and Mike Carew reported. Next newsletter will focus on security. Crime increase over last month. 6 burglaries, 4 car break ins. 15 total crimes reported. Prowler arrested on Wessyngton by SP officer while on duty for MSP. Major break in and theft of appliances on E. Morningside. Traditionally, holiday gifts given to officers. $1700 in total bonuses, approval for which is sought from Board. Consistent with past practice. Motion made and passed. Garage break ins reported on N. Rock Springs.

Membership: Jodi on maternity leave. Approval sought for expense of 1849.60 in connection with mailing.

Terry Kearns reported on website development. Ansley and Grant Park webmasters contacted. 4 options: DreamTV, commercial developer willing to do it for free (but place ads), continue with website as it currently exists (problem with updating it), and then Terry Kearns does it however he can and with whatever time he can spend on it. Fill it up; then fill it up again. The last option is what we're going with President Olansky will exercise editorial control, for the time being. Content managers are the rest of the Board. One idea is to publish articles from the newsletter. Minutes will be posted. Logo needed for website. Public forum is present on website. Private forum for Board members also there to discuss website and other issues.

Newsletter: Martha Hall reported. Issue coming together.

Parks: David Robertson reported. Another repair needed at Beech Valley Park. $170 needed to repair pump; moved, seconded and passed. $120 more needed for http://www.treeeagle.org signage. Moved, seconded and passed. Nominate tree by going to http://www.parkpride.org or by calling (404) 817-7969 or 607-8355.

Beautification: Kerry Brown reported. A group of neighbors on Rock Springs is looking to take care of Woodrow Wilson monument area. Holly will be trimmed to make area more usable. Warning: when holly is trimmed, it initially looks awful. Going forward, ultimately trying to make area more attractive. Article will appear in newsletter in spring on green spaces; if someone is taking care of one and Beautification Committee does not know about them, please let Kerry Brown or Pat Gardner know. Motion made to approve $627.15 for expenses at Wildwood triangle; seconded and passed with one nay vote and one abstention. Joe Joyce will be reimbursed for these expenses; neighbors warned to come to Board before spending money because sometimes the funds won't be there.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported that schools will be out soon until 1/8. Next CINS meeting will be in January.

Special Events: Mike McCool not present but did send email saying that he would chair Celebration of Summer again.

Traffic: Bill Ellis and Bruce Maloy reported. Amsterdam and Berkshire: continued discussion with City; not yet satisfactory resolution. URS recommendations for traffic calming: corrections requested in report. Proceeding with consensus building in neighborhood. Hosts needed for N. Rock Springs, Lenox and E. Rock Springs. Volunteers for N. Rock Springs and Lenox obtained from Board. Motion made to approve 2242.41 for next phase of URS study; seconded and passed. Sidewalks and North MLPA: Lee Kintzel reported. 4 sidewalks repaired and paid for within last month.

Treasurer's Report: Ruth Alexander reported. 2000 tax return prepared and available for inspection. Zoning: Steven Rowell reported.

V-01-380; 1356 N. Highland Ave. Application to reduce side yard setback from 7 to 5 feet 6 inches to allow for second story addition to single family house. Committee had approved per 11/2/01 application and as consistent with drawings 11/5/01. Motion passed with one abstention.

V-01-396; 1723 Homestead Ave. Application to reduce front yard setback from 35 to 30 feet to allow for second story addition to single family home. Committee had approved per application dated 11/21/01 and consistent with drawings 11/15/01. Motion passed.

V-01-399; 790 Sherwood Rd. Application to reduce front yard setback from 35 to 31 feet to allow for second story dormer addition to single-family house. Committee had approved with condition for revised drawings. Motion passed with 12/7/01 revised plans.

V-01-40; 1111 McLynn Ave. Application to reduce side yard setback from 7 to 5 feet on right side of building. Also, variance to alter a nonconforming porch. Committee had approved per application dated 11/21/01 and consistent with drawings 10/01/01 and that there be no other construction allowed above front steps. Motion to approve per Committee passed.

Need for Budget meeting in early January. Suggested date of 1/13 in afternoon at president's house. Please get budgets to Ruth by 1/6 for copying.

MARTA has public hearings coming up for elimination of bus routes. 12/15 quality of life zoning ordinance meeting in Virginia-Highlands. Pres. Olansky will try to attend.

Continued discussion of bylaws. Article VII moved for approval (for consideration by membership); seconded and passed. Article VIII moved for approval; seconded and passed. Article IX moved for approval; seconded and passed. Article X discussed; moved for approval; seconded and passed.

Discussion re Policy Sheet. Motion made to approve one policy on policy sheet.

Meeting adjourned at @ 9:10 pm.

Minutes November 12, 2001

Board members present were Dianne Olansky, Ruth Alexander, Norman McKay, Bob Silvia, Mike Carew, Bill Ellis, Pat Gardner, Joe Giardina, Bruce Maloy, Kerry Brown, David Robertson, Susan Drake, Alan Perry, Charlotte Gillis, Steven Rowell, Zac Pasmanick and Mae Reich.

Pres. Olansky convened the meeting at approximately 7:40 pm.

Motion made to approve the minutes of October meeting. Seconded and passed.

Committee reports

Security Patrol: Mike Carew and Bob Silvia reported. October saw 6 car breakins, 5 burglaries and 2 car thefts. Higher incidence of house breakins. 3 were on one day. A mailbox thief was apprehended. Report suspicious events to 911. If going away for holidays, make sure to get your vacation security requests in.

Pancake breakfast for Security Patrol was a success. Many thanks to chefs. Raves received on quality of pancakes.

Membership: Pres. Olansky reported for Jody Mansbach. Things proceeding apace for bulk membership mailing next month. Mailing to be followed up by grass roots door-to-door canvassing, with help of Kristine Rudolph. Motion made to approve payment of up to $2500 for mass membership mailing and increasing budget by $500. Seconded and passed.

Meeting proposed in January to coordinate sponsorship packages for various special events. Website meeting held last week.

Newsletter: Pres. Olansky reported for Martha Hall. Deadline is November 30th. Issue is Public Safety. Bill for printing and distibuting newsletter of $5152.71. Motion made and passed approving payment.

Parks: David Robertson and Charlotte Gillis reported: WUFG steering committee selected. Charlotte and Steven Rowell are on steering committee. David reported on Parks 911 meeting at Zoo. 2 natatoriums planned for southern side of city; question whether and why this neighborhood overlooked.

Treeeagle.org needs signage; total of $495. Money remaining in budget. Motion made and passed. Trees expense and sprayers and sprinkler hardware: 913.07. Motion made to approve expense; passed.

Interest in helping with tree plan for Lenox Wildwood Park?

Developer of 1050 Mclynn being taken to court for violating tree ordinance.

Question re congruence of zoning process and tree appeal process. To be discussed later in meeting.

Les Spenser from the Cub Scout Troop continuing with fund raising process for flag pole at Smith Park. Beautification: Pat Gardner reported.

Yard signs for elections should come down shortly after 27th of this month.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. Next CINS meeting 11/14 with Dr. Hall.

Special Events: no report.

Tour of Homes: Zac Pasmanick reported. Total profit was just under $28000. Another great year. Applause from Board for results and efforts of whole group. Zac interested in chairing again and momentum already gathering for homes to be selected and for volunteers for selection committee. Motion made to approve payment of $3183.97. Passed.

Traffic: Bill Ellis and Bruce Maloy reported. Final recommendations coming in shortly from URS. Need to develop neighborhood consensus for implementing recommendations. E.Morningside is the top street in the URS recommendations.

Berkshire/Sussex intersection: neighbors interested in funding aesthetic improvement in intersection. Monroe at Yorkshire: seeing increasing problems with speed. Suggestion made of putting something akin to rumble strips on Yorkshire. Also possibility of moving crosswalk.

Problems with Grady High School parking.

Cheshire Bridge task force being brought into loop with possibility of turning right from south bound Piedmont onto Cheshire Bridge Road. Possibility of traffic control device on Rockledge. Slowdown suggested again before Christmas holidays.

URS invoice will be $1528 or thereabouts. Motion made; passed with one nay vote. Pitch made by Bill about needing support from future City Council representative (who were in the audience) on traffic issues.

Pres. Olansky passed out cards that can be placed on cars that are parking on sidewalks. Sidewalks: no report.

Treasurer's report: Ruth Alexander reported. Insurance bill went up by 10%. Motion made to approve general liability insurance premium of $4343.04. Motion made and passed.

Questions regarding competitive bids, higher deductible. Another question regarding whether rider for Tour of Homes could be included as part of policy.

Zoning: Steven Rowell reported no issues considered this week. Plans for Cobb building located at N.Highland and Amsterdam. 3 story mixed use development; parking lot in back with access off of Amsterdam. Reports on 3 new mixed use ordinances. Apparent push by City Planning Dept. to get these approved. Deferred until December and/or January.

Other business and announcements

Cathy Woolard thanked neighborhood for support. What matters is that you show up to vote. Election is winnable. You can vote in runoff even if you did not vote in general election.

Bylaws addressed. Articles V and VI approved as presented.

Jannie Gerds and Anne Fauver presented. Jannie stated that she has been active in Midtown neighborhood issues; check out votegerds.com, her website. Other cities have terrific models and we can get there. Anne said that Morningside led the district with a 51% turnout. Appreciative of Constitution's endorsement and Warren Bruno's endorsement. Trained journalist who knows how to ask tough questions.

Website discussion revisited: Terry Kearns presented. Project website set up to lead discussion of changes desired in website. Importance of writing stuff that people want to read. Necessity of keeping up with website on a regular basis. tk-jk.net/morningside is the url (location) for this project website. Members welcome to visit the project website and comment in the various forums.

Tree Conservation Commission Appeal Process -- anyone can appeal from the Arborist's approval. Question with Parks Chair acting unilaterally without further communication and/or approval from Board. New ordinance will charge $15 for appeal, it is believed. Consensus that communications need to be made to President any time Parks Chair or any other Board member files an appeal. Consensus as well that Parks Chair does great job of protecting trees in neighborhood and encouraged to keep up work.

Logo presented by David Robertson. History of various logos used by Tour of Homes and Security Patrol. Question raised about whether we should consider changing name of association and drop Lenox Park. People don't know what this is and even realtors refer to the neighborhood as "Morningside." Question of what logos we should adopt.

Meeting adjourned at @ 9:45

Next Board meeting is tomorrow night, 7:30, at Morningside Presbyterian Church.

Minutes October 8, 2001

President Olansky convened the meeting at approximately 7:35 pm.

Board members present were Dianne Olansky, Bill Ellis, Norman McKay, Lee Kintzel, Pat Gardner, Bob Silvia, Ruth Alexander, Alan Perry, Martha Porter Hall, Jodi Mansbach, Joe Giardina, Mike Carew, Steven Rowell, and Mae Reich.

Moment of silence was held for victims and families of 9/11 attacks.

Motion made to approve September minutes. Seconded and passed.

Security Patrol: Mike Carew and Bob Silvia reported. Only 6 reported crimes, 2 car breakins. Unusually low for fall. Report crimes! Free pancake breakfast on 10/20 at Morningside Presbyterian Church to meet the Security Patrol officers.

Membership: Jodi Mansbach reported. Working on mass mailing and hoping to go door to door in January. Survey results inconclusive showing a majority of respondents would pay dues on website, but not overwhelming demand. Strong sense that emails should not replace quarterly newsletter. Meeting on website to take place with interested neighbors.

Newsletter: Martha Porter Hall reported. Issue delivered.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. CINS meeting; box lunch at noon on 10/10 at Grady high school. Board of Education candidates. Mayoral candidates: ethics in government 101: can the next mayor pass? 10/24 at First Presbyterian Church at 7:30. Bill Nygut will narrate; Cynthia Tucker on panel. Common Cause sponsors.

Parks; Les Spenser from Cub Troop 17 addressed the Board. Idea of erecting flag pole at Smith Park. One of ideals endorsed by Troop is community activism. 30 foot pole with landscaping and 1 or 2 lights. Cost estimated between 8-10,000. One anonymous neighbor said would match any MLPA contribution up to 2000. No attempt made yet to solicit funds from adjoining businesses. Has been in touch with Parks Dept. Motion made to donate $500 with matching from anonymous donor with sense of Board being to reconsider issue of possibly supplementing donation at next meeting.

Other Parks reports: Pres. Olansky reported from an email report transmitted by David Robertson. Motion made via David that check for $100 for street tree planting be assigned to Parks budget for future tree planting. Motion tabled for further future discussion. Motion made and passed for renewal of annual Trees of Atlanta membership. MLPA to send letter in support of appeal for tree removal before replanting takes place; signal that we support strong and consistent enforcement of tree ordinance. Motion made, seconded and passed.

Beautification: Pat Gardner reported. Request for $225 for flowers at Pelham traffic circle. Motion made, seconded and passed. Request for $2000 to bring up to code the Beech Valley water system. $ in budget. Motion made, seconded and passed. Bridge going in to Wildwood Gardens. Still need volunteer sponsors.

Tour of Homes: everything seems to be under control. Still may be need for volunteers; could be on an on-call basis. Motion made to approve Tour of Homes expenses of 881.03 and 485.40 for printing and mailing expenses. Passed.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported. 65 "caught" with laser gun at 3 different locations in last month. October 10th morning rush hour slow down. Barclay, Berkshire and Sussex intersection: problem with City solution.

North MLPA/Sidewalks: Lee Kintzel reported. Go see new sidewalks on N. Highland.

Treasurer's report: Ruth Alexander reported. Report handed out.

Zoning: Steven Rowell reported.

V-01-306, 1171 Lenox Circle. Building addition to house; reduction of front yard set back. Approved per site plan. Motion to approve, seconded and passed.

V-01-323, 814 Yorkshire Road. Reduction of rear and side yard setbacks to allow for construction of detached open carport. Approved per site plans accepted by City on 9/7/01. Side yard setback to be 1 foot instead of zero feet. Standard conditions for garages imposed. Neighbors ok with this. Motion to approve, seconded and passed.

V-01-336, 825 Wildwood Rd. Variance to reduce rear and side yard setbacks from 50 to 40 and 10 to 8.5. Allowing for addition to house. Motion to approve per site plan dated 9/26/01. Motion to approve, seconded and passed.

New Business

Gloria Bromell-Tinubu, Mayoral candidate, appeared and spoke briefly on the unique opportunities available to the next mayor. She became active first through PTA, then NPU-Z and on to other civic activities. Important for citizens to be involved in their government. Citizen engagement and involvement at core of campaign. Role of mayor is to balance business interests with neighborhood interests. We need each other. Academic background in economics and only candidate so qualified. Committed to hiring top people and letting them do their jobs. Ultimate charge is to build better city for our children.

Warren Bruno, District 6 candidate for City Council; owner of Atkins Park restaurant. Served on many task forces, including studies on parking and N. Highland corridor study. Study on liquor code and changes that needed to be made to it. Consensus builder; likes to bring businesses, neighborhoods, and government together.

H.Lamar Willis, At Large Post 3 candidate for City Council. Atlanta native. Northside High School. Focus on integrity issues; also thought that needed more focus on policy and legislative issues. Background in urban studies; law degree and now with FAA. Qualified as a policy analyst. "Closing gap with credibility." Check out hlamarwillis.com

Bob Silvia, State House of Rep., District 47 candidate. Seeking to replace Jim Martin. Originally from Pennsylvania. Chair of NPU-F and active in other civic activities. Waited until last minute to enter race, wanted to see neighborhood activist candidate. 8 candidates for position. Vote on 11/6.

Discussion on amendment of bylaws postponed.

Meeting adjourned at @ 9:35 pm.

Minutes September 10, 2001

Board members present were: Dianne Olansky, Alan Perry, Lee Kintzel, Pat Gardner, Bob Silvia, Michael McCool, Joe Giardina, Ruth Alexander, Martha Porter Hall, Steven Rowell, Mae Reich, David Robertson, Ross Mansbach, Susan Drake, Norman McKay, Charlotte Gillis, Kerry Brown, Michael Carew and Bill Ellis.

Pres. Olansky convened the meeting at @ 7:40 pm. Minutes of August meeting moved for approval; passed.

Security Patrol: Bob Silvia and Michael Carew reported. Increase in auto break ins. Some reports of break ins that were not reported to the police. Important to report all crimes (911) so that we have a true picture of crime in the neighborhood.

Membership: Jodi Mansbach had reported to the Board previously via email. Outstanding issues for the Board to consider include whether it is important for the website to be able to accept credit cards for membership dues (how many of the membership would renew via the website?) and whether we ought to switch to an email "newsletter" that would also update the website, with Board members providing their monthly reports in written fashion. Interested members should see SURVEY below.

Newsletter: Martha Hall reported. Applause for the most recent issue. The next issue concerns the Tour of Homes. A few holes remain to be filled but it should go to the printer this week. Motion for approval of 3700 and something for printing and 400 and something (total of 4262.53) made; seconded and passed.

Parks: David Robertson reported. Insurance company paid up for tree hit on E. Pelham. $6900 from that moved to go towards parks budget and replacement of trees throughout neighborhood. Passed. Treeeagle.org. Software expenses for listbot at website. $150 for that software. Annual expense. Motion made and approved.

SATURDAY 8am to 2pm, October 13th is Trees Atlanta Annual Tree Sale Fund Raiser to be held at Piedmont Park, near the Education Complex/Magnolia Hall. It will be on the side of the park closest to the Botanical Gardens & Tennis courts. There will be people at the gates of the park & signage to help. If you are driving there, it is easiest to enter from Park Drive and turn right as you enter the park. Natives will be the focus, but many rare and unusual exotic trees will also be available. There will be over one hundred species of trees, shrubs and vines at the sale. A few of the native trees that are difficult (if not impossible) to find include two-winged silver bell, beech, paw paw, stewartia, mockernut and shagbark hickory, yellowwood and 8 varieties of oaks http://www.treesatlanta.org/treesale.html These trees will help rejuvenate our declining tree canopy and re-create a healthy diverse forest. All proceeds go toward in-town tree plantings!

Beautification: Kerry Brown and Pat Gardner reported. October 13 at Wildwood Gardens is the beautification date, 8-12 noon (go work and then go on the Tour of Homes!). More sponsorship sought for green spaces.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. Morningside Elementary: school off to a great start. Wrapping paper sale. Discussion of changes in curriculum at Morningside and Inman. Interim principal at Inman only there until November. Magazine sale taking place at Inman. Mayoral forum at Inman Wednesday night the 19th. Grady is having PTA meeting tomorrow night. Grady would like $ from MLPA to help out with funding expansions of two programs. Motion made to donate $1000 to Grady. Passed. CINS meeting this Wednesday with Principal Report. Next meeting will be at Grady on October 10. Noon time meeting: candidate's forum for Board of Education candidates.

Special Events: Michael McCool reported. Looking for help with Special Events Summer Celebration; only 10-15 hours is needed which is spread out over several months.

Tour of Homes: Zac is sick. Lee Kintzel reported. More volunteers needed for Tour which is October 13 and 14. @19,000 in sponsorships already gathered. Friends of the Tour forms passed out again. Motion made to approve $156 for liability insurance for Tour. Approved. Email solicitation to be sent around for volunteers.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported. Third Traffic Workshop held last month; approximately 50 persons present. Confusion over URS study versus Traffic Committee. URS study commissioned to study collector streets only. Traffic comm. still involved in all other issues. Tomorrow Bill and Dianne O. meeting with Cathy Woolard and BTS to address citizen input and prioritization issues. Need to understand process. Ask every City office candidate what their positions are for improvement of traffic situations in City (not just our neighborhood). Also ask for positions re law enforcement budget. URS $2124.40 amount motion made and approved.

North MLPA/Sidewalks: Lee Kintzel reported. City permits issued for N. Highland work. Work should be done within 45 days. Letter received from Morningside Park Condo Association thanking us for doing this. Plans to make contribution to MLPA in their next budget. Need to ask for approval for 4 sidewalk reimbursements: $700 for 1492 N. Highland; moved and approved. The other 3 were city repairs along N. Highland; already approved as part of total package (1124 Cumberland (corner of N. Highland), $759.71; 1480 N. Highland, $382.50; 1371 N. Highland, $600.) Total of reimbursement specifically approved.

Treasurer's Report: Ruth Alexander reported. New format of report. Amount shown what is left for year to be spent according to budget.

Zoning: Steven Rowell reported.

Meeting tomorrow night on environmental subdivision ordinance. Interest recently expressed from some new members for committee.

New Business:

Pat Gardner presented herself as a candidate for State House, replacing Jim Martin. Active in neighborhood issues; experience working with General Assembly.

Ceasar Mitchell presented himself as a candidate for City Council Post 1 at large. This post position requires candidate to live in districts 1, 2, 3, or 4. He and his wife live in West End. Born and raised in Atlanta. Identified issues such as traffic, law enforcement and schools. Spoke of his experiences growing up in Atlanta. 1995 Georgia law school graduate; real estate practice.

Old Business:

Mae Reich passed out copies of the proposed new bylaws. Board to consider revisions of Bylaws over time for presentation to membership at next annual meeting for approval.

Extensive discussion on proposed Articles I - IV. Proposed Article I approved as presented. Proposed Article II approved with the addition of a proviso that proxy voting will not be allowed at meetings of members, including the annual meeting.

Proposed Article III approved as presented. Proposed Article IV approved with the deletion of a reference to certain circumstances under which members may vote at Board meetings with the idea that if a Special Meeting needed to be called, then it should be called; one nay vote.

Meeting adjourned at @ 9:35 pm.

SURVEY

Would you use the MLPA website to renew your membership and pay via credit card?
How do you feel about the monthly minutes that are transmitted via email, like the above? Would you prefer a monthly email newsletter instead that contained more than just official MLPA business?

Please feel free to provide additional comments on the subject of MLPA member communications. Just hit "Reply" with your survey answers.

Minutes August 13, 2001

President Olansky called the meeting to order at 7:35 pm.

Board members present were Dianne Olansky, Lee Kintzel, Bill Ellis, Bruce Maloy, Alan Perry, David Robertson, Mae Reich, Bob Silvia, Zac Pasmanick, Martha Porter Hall, Steven Rowell, Ruth Alexander, David Garr, Susan Drake, Kerry Brown, Charlotte Gillis, Pat Gardner, Joe Giardina and Mike Carew.

July 2001 minutes approved after correction of Mike Carew's name in MSP report.

Security Patrol: Bob Silvia and Mike Carew reported. One new officer to be added to morning watch. Crime is about the same but we do have a flasher in the neighborhood; look out for red pickup truck. MSP visited street party on Reeder and explained what Security Patrol is and how to prevent crime. Any such gatherings (of any type) that you would like one or more Security Patrol representatives to visit to present and/or answer questions, just let them know.

Membership: Jodi Mansbach reported. Membership forms available as are directories. Big membership campaign will be in late November/early December. Website improvements explained by Chuck Ebbetts. Dreamtv.net product explained; inexpensive; allows changes to website to be made by one or more Board members without knowledge of HTML. Would allow website to be kept more up to date. Could possibly allow collection of fees on the internet. Update membership information, including email addresses, on internet. Would charge extra for graphic design on website.

Committee formed of Jodi, Chuck, Alan Perry and John Schwartz to address issues. Committee authorized to develop a prototype and spend $25 a month for website. Motion passed.

Motion to approve expenditures for mailing in connection with annual meeting @ 760 also passed.

Newsletter: Martha Hall reported that issue is in the mail. Next one will concern Tour of Homes.

Parks: David Robertson reported on meeting with Atlanta Gas Light; continued to have problems with damaging trees in right of way. Trying to work on Best Practices procedures with them. Letter of support went to Park Pride. Motion made to contribute $75 to support symposium for mayoral race to go to Park Pride. Passed; one abstention.

Beautification: Kerry Brown and Pat Gardner reported. Expenses of doing work on Wildwood Gardens. Day laborers to be used for heavy work needed to be done before October cleanup. Contractor going to donate time but costs for materials of bridge needed. Money already in budget. Jd Pruitt to sponsor at least one greenspace.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. School has begun. CINS meeting on 9/12.

Tour of Homes: Zac Pasmanick reported. All houses (10) and one garden have been chosen. First time in history of Tour that more houses available for Tour than were selected. Captains needed for streets. Morningside Garden Club to host/captain garden. All committees have been working very hard, especially selection committee. Round of applause given to selection committee. Lee Kintzel reported that sponsorship committee (chaired by Norman Mckay and herself) already at work. Home Rebuilders on board; others may have signed up as well. "Friends of the Tour" will be a focus of this year's campaign. All that is needed is a $100 donation. Friends will also be mentioned in post-Tour newsletter. Several Board members signed up to be Friends on sign-up sheet passed around at meeting.

Traffic: Bill Ellis and Bruce Maloy reported. URS summary of traffic findings passed out. Next meeting (the last) will be 8/28. Speed study done on Amsterdam 3 weeks ago: results expected Wednesday. Homeowner on Windemere asked whether "no turn" signs, similar to what Ansley Park has, could be considered for street. Street serves as cut-through during rush hours.

Cathy Woolard is hosting periodic Town Hall meeting in 2 days.

North MLPA (and sidewalks): Lee Kintzel reported. Approval of monies to repair N. Highland sidewalks revisited. Lee has been working on this. West side of street ready to go. (AGL still working on east side). Specific authorization sought for certain N. Highland addresses and amounts -- total amount 5,906.87. Motion passed.

Treasurer's Report: Ruth Alexander reported and passed out report. 779.69 sought to be approved for mailing newsletter (Cornerstone). Motion passed. MSP information handed out as well. Zoning: Stephen Rowell presented.

V-01-247; 1647 North Rock Springs: special exception to nonconforming duplex. Applicant said no addition of existing bedroom, even though adding 2nd story. Carriage house behind house has been there and used as rental. This presence caused the requirement to obtain special exception. Talked to everybody 5 doors up and down and no objections; set of signed statements saying no objection. Motion by Committee to approve per plan, use second story only for storage, and new bedroom must be on first floor, passed 3-1 in committee. Objector pointed out that intent of law was to force nonconforming uses to go away. Committee felt that, all things considered, this would be positive for neighborhood and not negative. Motion made to follow Committee's lead and approve per conditions. Passed 9-2-2.

V-01-258; 1700 Pineridge Rd.; reduction of side yard setback from 10' to 6'. Footprint of house remains the same. When you raise the roofline, the encroachment is on the setback. Motion to approve per Committee, per drawings and site plan. Motion passed, one abstention.

Presentations

Senator David Scott introduced himself. As a result of redistricting by the Legislature (which was not final at the time of the meeting), we may lose Vincent Fort but gain Sen. Scott. He has been representing a district that includes Grant Park and Va.-Highlands and Inman Park. He is Chair of the Senate Rules Committee and has served in the Senate for many years.

The Cheshire Bridge Streetscape Plan (3 options) was presented by Chancer McLaughlin of the City Planning Office and James E. Strack. Discussion of costs and benefits of 3 options, including making sure that enough room is provided for trees to thrive. Board voted unanimously to support option 1, which included a 10' planting strip (with trees being planted only on the outside 5' to leave room for a bike lane) and a 10' "sidewalk clear zone."

Bob Whitelaw, a candidate for the State House to replace Jim Martin, introduced himself. He has lived in the neighborhood since 1990.

Because of the lateness of the hour, discussion of a new logo was postponed until the next meeting.

Mae Reich passed out to the Board proposed new ByLaws and a special planning meeting for available Board members will be held before the next meeting.

Meeting adjourned at @ 9:35 pm.

From the Wildwood Urban Forest Group: Due to a computer glitch, the Wildwood Urban Forest e-mail distribution list got scrambled, and we lost some of our e-mail addresses. So, if you would like to hear all the latest news about what is going on - in your own backyard - with the Wildwood Urban Forest, as well as with other neighborhood greenspace efforts - just drop us a line, at: wurfg@mindspring.com

Also, the Wildwood Urban Forest Group is currently in the process of assembling a task force to help plan the nature preserve. We will be having a kick-off meeting sometime in the next month or so. So, if you would like to participate on the task force, let us know that as well. We would love to have you!!

Sincerely,
The Wildwood Urban Forest Group

Minutes July 9, 2001

President Dianne Olansky called the meeting to order at approximately 7:30 p.m.

Board members present were Dianne Olansky, Norman McKay, Steven Rowell, Bob Silvia, Joe Giardina, Mae Reich, Charlotte Gillis, Bill Ellis, Ross Mansbach, Martha Porter Hall, Mike Carew, and Pat Gardner.

Helen Robinson from Councilmember Cathy Woolard's office attended.

Approval of minutes of the June 2001 meeting: Members of the Board voted to approve the minutes as submitted.

Security Patrol: Bob Silvia will attend the Zone 2 Citizens Advisory Council on behalf of the MLPA. Rod Carew, who is managing the Morningside Security Patrol, reported that car break-ins are increasing, as is usual during the summer. As a result, the Security Patrol may add an additional shift of off-duty Atlanta Police Department officers.

Membership: Ross Mansbach reported that we have 728 members. Of that number, 485 are members of the Security Patrol. The 728 members is 24% of Morningside addresses. Ross introduced a new resident, Chuck Ebbets, who has volunteered to help with the MLPA website and with e-mail messages.

Newsletter: Martha Porter Hall reported that the summer issue of the newsletter is at the printer's. The next issue will feature the Tour of Homes.

Parks: Charlotte Gillis reported that we have expenses of $2,510 on water hookups, sprinklers and hose bibs, $470.48 for plumbing equipment. Motion was made to approve these expenditures: motion passed. Charlotte described the new Atlanta Parks Rescue Plan, PARC 911, which has been formed by nine parks organizations to nurture Atlanta's existing parks and increase park, trail and natural area acreage.

Bill Ellis made a motion to send a letter of endorsement of the project to Park Pride, the coalition's structural organization. Motion passed.

Charlotte reported that the Atlanta Erosion Control office, at (404) 330-6990 or (404) 330-6089, should be contacted to report silt and mud runoff from construction projects.

Beautification: Pat Gardner stated that the committee is looking for people or organizations to adopt traffic islands. Leah McKay on Wildwood Place has reminded Arthur Cohen of Tecton Builders that he agreed to install the proposed bridge in Wildwood Gardens. The Gardens will have a workday on October 13, 2001; all residents and members are invited to participate.

Education: Joe Giardina reported that Morningside Elementary School has requested $1,500 for beautification. Joe made a motion to give Morningside $1,000, which is the amount the Board has budgeted for Morningside for 2001. Motion passed.

Special Events: No report.

Tour of Homes: Kathy Cunha is working on home selection. We're still looking for houses.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reminded us that the Traffic Committee will meet on Tuesday, July 14. The final URS Traffic Workshop is tentatively set for a Saturday in August. Bill has asked URS for a summary of data gathered at the two workshops. Several attendees expressed concerns about the recently installed traffic configuration around Marco Island. Bill agreed that the current configuration is ugly, but is only temporary.

Sidewalks: We have received several applications for MLPA sidewalk funds.

Zoning: Steven Rowell reported.

V-01-227, 1016 Cumberland, to reduce a front yard setback. The Zoning Committee recommended approval. Motion to approve passed unanimously.

David Garr stated that the Zoning Committee needs members and invited those interested to contact him at (404) 881-6846 or Steve Rowell at (404) 892-3661 for information.

New Business:

Laura Moonshower, representing BellSouth, made a presentation about the company's intent to enlarge the routing boxes in Wildwood Gardens. They want to extend the easement by 20' x 20'. The discussion which followed included an observation that there are alternative locations (behind Hardee's at Piedmont and Rock Springs, which also has an existing routing box). Motion was made to recommend denial of the request and send a letter to the Parks Department of Atlanta, asking that the enlargement not be permitted. The motion carried.

Old Business:

President Olansky reported that Mae Reich has agreed to rework the ByLaws. Dianne urged Board members to review the bylaws and give Mae any comments or suggestions.

David Robertson is working on cleaning up the MLPA logo.

Michael Carroll reported that the Cheshire Bridge Task Force will meet at the Colonnade on Wednesday, August 15. He urged those who are interested to attend.

Adjournment took place at @9:15 pm.

Postscript: APAB will recognize outstanding communnity service at their annual neighborhood celebration scheduled for October 13, 2001. Each NPU is asked to select an individual or agency to receive an award in acknowledgement of their meritorious service or project for our NPU. I MUST submit the nomination to the NPU Coordinator no later than September 1, 2001. Therefore, the upcoming August 20th NPU "F" meeting is when I need to receive this information. I must have written nominations, showing the reason(s) why you think this person or agency is deserving of this award.

Thank You,
Aaron Gross NPU Chairman

Minutes June 11, 2001

President Dianne Olansky called the meeting to order at approximately 7:35 p.m.

Board members present were Dianne Olansky, Norman McKay, Ruth Alexander, Ross Mansbach, David Robertson, Judy Jameson, Bill Ellis, Bruce Maloy, Joe Giardina, Stephen Rowell, David Garr, Martha Porter Hall, Charlotte Gillis, Pat Gardner, Mike McCool. Approval of the May 2001 meeting minutes;

Dianne Olansky asked that Mae Reich be added to the Board members who attended the May meeting. With that amendment, the minutes were approved.

Security Patrol; Michael Carew reported that five membership applications were given out at Celebration of Summer. He asked whether pro rata membership of the Security Patrol was still an active option. Treasurer Ruth Alexander suggested that since MLPA has gone to a calendar (January 1-December 31) year, we should offer semi-annual pro rata membership in the patrol, for residents who want to join for less than 50% of the calendar year. The Security Patrol managers and the Treasurer will meet before the next meeting to discuss the issue and bring a recommendation to the Board at the next meeting.

Membership; Ross Mansbach reported that work on the next MLPA Locator is continuing. Jodi is addressing the database problems. On behalf of the Association, the Mansbachs hired two teenage residents at $6 per hour to distribute the Locator to members who had not picked up a copy. Several attendees expressed an interest in obtaining the names, addresses and phone numbers of the teenagers (Walker and Jacob Burkhardt, 937 E. Rock Springs Road, (404) 874-4886). A motion was made to approve a payment of $140 to the Burkhardts. The motion passed unanimously.

Newsletter; Martha Porter Hall asked that committee chairpersons submit committee reports to her and Van as soon as possible. She introduced Susan Drake, Contributing Editor, and Debbie Goldsmith, Business Manager. Martha reported that the Manager of the Belvedere, the new condominium on Dutch Valley Road had agreed to offer a one-year MLPA membership to each new owner and had asked about the possibility of a reduced membership rate, since this would be a total group of up to ninety memberships. A motion was made to give the condominium management company at the Belvedere a special one-year membership rate of $15 for new residents. The motion was passed unanimously.

Parks - David Robertson reported that the water connections in Beech Valley Park are operating. The water hookups in Lenox-Wildwood Park are currently up to City Code.

A teacher, parent and group of students from Morningside Elementary School took down the guard chain at Lenox-Wildwood Park, drove through the creek and onto the park area. President Olansky will arrange a meeting with David Robertson, her and the incoming Principal in order to discuss the work that the MLPA and Morningside Elementary School have done together, how we can work together in the future, and ask that members of the MES community observe No Parking signs in the parks, especially Lenox-Wildwood and Sunken Garden Parks.

Charlotte Gillis, co-chair of the Parks Committee stated that the silt fence installed at the construction project at Rock Springs and Morningside is down and that as a result of the heavy rains we have had, mud is running into the street at the site. Charlotte said that any such mud runoffs from construction should be reported to the City of Atlanta's Erosion Control office, Greg Gutzwiller and Aaron Jones, at (404) 330-6089 and/or (404) 330-6990. Charlotte will refer this information for distribution on the MLPA Bulletin Board.

Beautification: Pat Gardner reported that several of the Parks Adopters have agreed to continue for the 2001 year. Anyone interested in adopting a park and/or working on the Beautification Committee should contact Pat at (404) 873-6208.

Education: Joe Guardina stated that school is out and that he is in the process of determining who will be his contact next year at our three neighborhood public schools. He asked if anyone knew why Morningside and Inman Schools both have School Zone signs on the streets adjacent to the school, but there are none at Grady High. Bill Ellis, Traffic Committee Chair, pointed out that Grady is in Midtown, not Morningside. Beth Crowther from Cathy Woolard's office will investigate for us.

Special Events; Mike McCool reported that Celebration of Summer had a 20% increase in ticket sales over last year.

There were nine sponsors:

Publix Supermarket - Ansley Mall, 404-898-1850
FastSigns - 561 Peachtree St. NE, 404-724-0700
Greg Williamson - 14 West Realtors, 1411 N. Highland Ave., 404-874-6357
Mambo Restaurtante Cubano - 1402 N. Highland Ave., 404-876-2626
Sally Westmoreland - Coldwell Banker,1370 N. Highland Ave., 404-874-2262
Sara Wessling - Allstate Insurance, 1424-1 N. Highland Ave., 404-875-6743
Alon's Bakery - 1394 N. Highland Ave., 404-872-6000
Dale Modica - Harry Norman Realtors, 1531 Piedmont Rd., 404-897-5558
The Home Rebuilders - 1629 Monroe Dr., 404-876-3000

Tour of Homes; Zac Pasmanick is on vacation; Dianne Olansky delivered his report. The House committee is looking for houses for the tour and would appreciate suggestions. Norman McKay reported that Ansley Park has moved their tour to the week before ours. There was no clear conclusion that this would have any affect on our tour.

Traffic: Bill Ellis and Bruce Maloy, Traffic CoChairs, stated that the last URS traffic symposium will probably be in mid to late July. Ed Ellis at URS has completed the survey, and as soon as the results are analyzed and given to them, they will post the results on the MLPA website.

Sidewalks: Laura Mitchell gave the report for Lee Kintzel, who is on vacation. MLPA has used $1,000 for sidewalks so far this year. The Sidewalks Project is recommending that we hold $2,000 is reserve for future use and use the remainder to fix both sidewalks on North Highland, between University and Rock Springs, which would cost a total of $12,861.75. (This amount would include reimbursement to the three homeowners who have used MLPA funds to help in the cost of repairing their sidewalks.)

After some discussion, Ross Mansbach made a motion that we amend the budget for sidewalks to $14,391.25 and allocate the money to fix sidewalks on North Highland from University to Rock Springs. The motion passed, 8 in favor, 2 opposed, 2 abstaining.

Treasurer's Report; Ruth Alexander submitted a monthly financial report. A motion was made to approve a payment of $413 to fix the sidewalk in front of Morningside Presbyterian. Passed unanimously. Motion to pay for the printing of the Spring newsletter. Passed unanimously. Zoning - Stephen Rowell reported on the following Zoning cases:

V-01-103, 933 E. Rock Springs Road; requesting approval for a parking pad installed without a permit in the front yard. Zoning committee recommended denial. The applicant did not appear. Motion to recommend denial passed unanimously.

V-01-149, 1329 N. Highland Avenue; requesting approval for an existing parking pad in the front yard. Zoning committee recommended denial. The applicant did not appear. Motion to recommend denial passed unanimously.

V-01-163, 1028 Amsterdam Avenue; requesting reduction of the side yard setback for a garage. The zoning committee recommended approval with conditions. The motion to recommend approval passed with the following conditions: the side yard setback will not be less than one foot ; the footprint will not exceed twenty-two feet by twenty-four feet ; electricity will be limited to 60 amps; plumbing will be no more than a hose bib; height will not exceed sixteen feet and based on the site plan submitted, dated 5/2/2001.

V-01-175, 1528 N. Highland Avenue; requesting expansion of a carport. The Zoning Committee recommended approval based on the architectural plan submitted dated 5/1/01 and revised 5/30/01, height limited to sixteen feet, plumbing no greater than a hose bib, electricity limited to 60 amps, and height no more than sixteen feet. Motion to recommend approval passed.

V-01-182, 2139 Liddell Drive; Request to reduce the parking requirement for a business from eight spaces to six spaces. Motion was made to recommend approval of the reduction so long and the building remains with the current owner and retains the current use. The motion passed, 7 in favor, 1 opposed, 3 abstaining.

V-01-197, 1437 Johnson Road; request to reduce the half depth front yard setback in order to enclose an existing open porch. Motion to recommend approval passed.

V-01-202, 836 Yorkshire Road; A variance to reduce the rear yard setback from 15 ft. to 4 ft. and side yard 7 ft. to 2 ft. for the construction of a storage shed (Garden House). Motion to recommend approval based upon:

The footprint of 10' x 10' as noted (sketched) on the site plan dated 1/04/90
Height limited to 16'
Electrical service limited to 60 amps
Plumbing limited to a hose bib.

Motion passed.

New Business

Bylaws - Mae Reich has volunteered to rework the ByLaws. President Olansky asked that members of the Board review the existing Bylaws and make recommendations.

Logo: New vs. old. After discussion, David Robertson volunteered to work on the logo and bring a proposal to the next meeting.

County Millage Rate: Anyone interested in working for a reduction in the rate, contact Jannie Gerds in Midtown, who is working on it.

The Board then went into executive session to discuss Security Patrol financial issues.

Adjournment took place at @9:15 pm

NEXT MEETING IS TOMORROW NIGHT, 7:30, Morningside Presbyterian Church

Minutes May 14, 2001

Present Board members: Diane Olansky, Norman McKay, Judy Jameson, Annette Beasley, Bob Silva, Bruce Maloy, David Robertson, Alan Perry, David Garr, Ruth Alexander, Joe Giardina, Bill Ellis, Pat Gardner, Jody Mansbach, Zac Pasmanick, Lee Kintzel Meeting convened by President Olansky at @ 7:30 pm.

April minutes approved.

Rock Creek Watershed Alliance: Peggy Bartlett and Charlotte Gillis presented. Concern over Edmund Park Project built on Rock Springs, in Druid Hills neighborhood. Volunteers needed for water quality monitoring. 5 concerns:deforestation, erosion and siltation during construction, increased impervious surface and flooding of Rock Spring Road, detention adequacy and streambank damage, and floodplain construction and stream buffer violations.

Officer Vazquez from MSP: introduce MSP: uniformed officers, working offduty, checking homes and generally touring the neighborhood and responding to calls. Vegetation, poor lighting contribute to neighborhood being targeted. Last month: no residential burglaries; only one car breakin.

MSP: Bob Silva, Annette Beasley and Judy Jameson. Judy will focus on membership efforts for Security Patrol, working with Jody Mansbach. Zone 2 meeting recently and our neighborhood is the "good" part of Zone 2. Suggestion that we are doing what Judy has been telling us to do for years: take your belongings out of your cars.

Membership: Jody Mansbach reported: Directory published. Looking for volunteers to help distribute directories by hand. Calendar-year membership now. Also looking for a volunteer to help with placing signs. Signs cost $330; one-call cost $113; putting together of directory cost $500 and publication cost $3300. Motion to approve payment, seconded and passed.

Newsletter: Martha Hall reported via Norman McKay. Planning meeting between Martha and Van will take place soon for next edition.

Parks: David Robertson Remember to water your new trees at least once a week with a hose."Soak them in." Mulch to help keep the soil cool in the summer and protect the trunk from damage. Take a look at the new MLPA tree web site for more tree care information ,City Tree Ordinance and to sign up for free MLPA street trees next winter.( http://www.treeeagle.org/) Forms passed out to appeal the permitting of cutting down trees in Atlanta. All cutting of trees over 6" in diameter must be permitted before removal (Dead or alive). Call 330-6586 for more forms/info ; or email to laustin@ci.atl.ga.us.

City tree Ordinance explained. BMP (Best Management Practices) explained for construction sites. Issue regarding beautification on Monroe and Amsterdam and request by developer to build markers.

Motion made to deny use of development marker. Approval of beautification project of development, to be placed in the form of a letter to NPU, developer and Georgia Power. Objections raised to accelerating consideration of issue when proponent/developer is not represented at meeting. Vote of 10 for, 3 against, and 2 abstentions.. Second motion made to deny use of MLPA marker. Passed with 2 abstentions.

$197.32 in parks expenses relating to irrigation, kudzu spray, printed material for annual meeting. Motion to approve made and passed.

Beautification: Pat Gardner and Kerry Brown. Request for volunteers to help keep up islands or to work on parks within our neighborhood. Email is patgardner@mindspring.com and kerrynbrown@hotmail.com.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. 9 days until end of school: 5/25: school's out!

Special Events: Mike McCool: 9 days until Celebration of Summer. 9 sponsors confirmed. Signs made by same company who made signs recently for annual meeting. Entertainment confirmed: 2 clowns. Speed pitch; giant slide; ponies; Pocket Lady; jousting. PR at Morningside School and Haygood Preschool. Sign at Morningside and hopefully at Coldwell Realty. Approval of band expenses and various other expenses. Motion made to approve $5500 for total expenses of event. Passed.

Tour of Homes: Zac Pasmanick will head up Tour (after a year's absence). We need volunteers, homes, and sponsors. Zac@thezacteam.net.

Traffic: Bill Ellis reported. 2nd traffic workshop held May 8; not that well attended; all opportunities presented. Straw vote taken; results available for next Traffic committee meeting. 3rd and final workshop within 5-8 weeks. Will attempt to upload CD from second workshop onto MLPA website. Attended PEDS presentation by Australian "traffic calming" expert. PEDS and traffic committee looking for "pace cars" that will be stickered for summer "Take Back the Streets" program.

Sidewalks: Lee Kintzel reported: half the cost up to total of $250 is what is reimbursed by MLPA. Newsletter generated phone calls and requests for information. Gas company replacing gas lines so sidewalk replacement already going on. Contractor willing to replace sidewalks for $3.62 per square foot (city still cheaper) but you don't have to wait. 4/876-9198 or kintzellee@aol.com for information on contractor. Question re whether it would be helpful to increase maximum. Question re improving sidewalks in front of Church. In the works.

Treasurer's report. Ruth Alexander reported. Suggests that any expenditure in excess of $100 approved in advance by Board. If need payment before board meeting, get approval for amount in advance. Any contractor/supplier who gets more than $600 a year will have to fill out W-9 form and will receive 1099 form. Funds for MSP in separate account. Ruth and Dianne will be signatories on MSP account. Motions made to approve changes; passed.

Zoning: Steven Rowell reported.

746 Wildwood Road (V01172): garage addition; footprint slightly larger of garage. Motion made to approve with same conditions as before. Footprint not to exceed 25 by 22 feet. 5/7 site plan. Motion made and passed.

1129 Cumberland Road (V0104, amended): amended application. Variance needed because enclosing and making "livable space" out of screened porch and attic. No structural change or pushouts taking place on exterior of house. Committee approved. Motion made to approve; passed.

933 E. Rock Springs (V01103): deferred at Committee. Motion made to defer. Pad already there. Committee thought to give applicant benefit of doubt to see if he could increase strength of argument. A committee member spoke up and said important to be consistent and also important to give applicant chance. 4 nay votes on motion to defer; 1 abstention. 9 votes to defer.

1006 Wildwood Rd (V01117): variance to reduce side yard setback to 5 feet and rear yard setback to 5 feet. Structure at 19'8". Existing garage added to house later. Space above garage could be used for office space. Architect of client present; admits that general rule is 16' for such additions. Looking from 746 on down Wildwood: detached accessory houses built with variances. According to architect, bathroom already there upstairs. Structure allowable (as long as built within setback). Committee denied because of height and concern that could be used later for apartment rental. Although presented as office, sketch showed bed in space. Buildings cited as examples: at least new one is within setback. Move to deny variance; passed unanimously.

1490 Monroe Drive (V01147): variance to allow duplex within single family residence. Contractor denied building permit because zoned single family. Appraisal before purchase shows that it was a working duplex. Not necessary for homeowner to do anything at this time but he just wanted neighborhood to know what was going on with structure.

658 Cumberland Circle (V01143): variance to reduce side yard setback. No footprint changes. Support from all neighbors. Approved conditioned upon 4/19 site plan. New business: Todd Foster presented issue with respect to tree removal. Appeal is of the tree removal going on with the Petronis construction of 3 houses on Morningside. Problem is that trees are within footprint of house. Concerns expressed over trees located between sidewalk and street and whether proper care is being taken of them. Motion made for David Robertson and President Olansky to send letter in connection with appeal urging tree replacement and care for remaining trees during construction. Passed. Reminder of WUFG celebration on the 25th at 4:00 pm.

Meeting adjourned at @ 9:30 pm.

NEXT MEETING: TOMORROW AT 7:30.

Minutes April 9, 2001

Missing

Minutes March 12, 2001

Attendance: Jodi and Ross Mansbach, Norman McKay, Diane Olansky, Mae Reich, Joe Giardina, Steven Rowell, David Robertson, Ruth Alexander, Bill Ellis

Motion to approve minutes of February meeting. Seconded. Approved.

Presentations:

Rock Creek Watershed Clean Up 3/31: Amsterdam and McClynn. Bring gloves, boots and waders. They'll provide pizza and drinks. For more information contact Steven Rowell or Charlotte Gillis.

Wildwood Urban Forest: deal to close next week with a mix of public and private funds. They are sending a letter to Cathy Woolard and the Nature Conservancy thanking them for their participation. They are now transitioning from the acquisition to the planning/design phase. Will be holding press conference on May 25th and will return next month with formal budget and request for MLPA sponsorship.

Jannie Gerds: short presentation/bio regarding candidate in bid for City Council.

Wildwood Place: Four neighbors on this street brought a complaint against other neighbors on the street (not present) who are obstructing the right of way with cones and have installed a basketball court on the street. They have contacted Cathy Woolard's office and Ken Gillett and have been informed that these actions are not permissible but neighbors continue to do so. Motion to approach Ken Gillett again and ask neighbors to remove police cones, goal, and concrete slab. Motion approved.

Committee Reports

Security Patrol: no report

Traffic: workshop with URS was a huge success. Next one planned for May 8th at 7:30 PM at Morningside Presbyterian Church. Slowdown on Thursday, March 22nd which will be a group effort of lots of neighborhoods participating.

Parks: Feb 24th Annual MLPA/Trees Atlanta tree planting day. Sponsored by MLPA. Over 60 volunteers planted over 100 trees. David Robertson will send out tree care instructions and requests for donations/MLPA memberships from those who received trees. This will help perpetuate the MLPA annual tree planting program in the neighborhood.

Motion to approve $1,000 donation to Trees Atlanta for their effort in coordinating the MLPA tree planting.

Sprinkler repairs to Noble Park and traffic islands at N. Pelham, E. Rock Springs and Smith Park.

Need park adopters for MLPA marker at Lenox Road RR track and Wilson Monument at E. Morningside and N. Rock Springs.

Ordered more pooper scooper signs. Please clean up after your dog and keep it on a leash in public.

Cleaning and sealing of MLPA markers has begun. Cat calls welcome, no horn blowing please.

Big Oak at E. Pelham and Piedmont Road was hit on Friday at 5 PM. The car slammed into the 20" oak and it may have to come down. Will file property claim with owner of car.

Also trees on Morningside Elementary School property was damaged by contractor who installed new fire hydrant for the new MES Gym on Fordham Ct. Arborguard has expressed concern about the trees on the property which are also lacking in structural stability due to directly trenching next to the trees on the site. The city arborist is to follow up.

Contractors from Atlanta Gas Company are still parking equipment on trees and damaging them.(Contractors are not allowed to park equipment on the right of way, on side walk, and in the Parks, Traffic Islands. call 911 to report. Your AGL gas line connection can be relocated to help save trees. AGL Contact Don Thomason at 678-878-5028 if you see any damage being done to your street trees. Or you can call me at 404-350-4828. City Arborist Frank Mobley 404-350-6874.

There has been some illegal trash dumping behind Burger King and RR tracks on Lenox.Dr. Call the Neighborhood Deputies program at 330-6223 to report any illegal trash dumping. Help keep the neighborhood clean. Contact (Terri Copeland/ neighborhood deputies) tcopeland@ci.atlanta.ga.us

Beautification: MLPA volunteers cleaned and will plant the traffic circle on Rock Springs shortly. Call if you have an interest in helping with any neighborhood beautification projects.

Celebration of Summer: Plans underway for event on May 25th. Call Mike McCool to volunteer or for more information

Education: change in curriculum will be implemented next year. It is a "back to basics" curriculum

Membership: [supplemented after meeting] Meeting of several Board members and other active and interested persons led by copresident Jodi took place on membership, website, outreach, newsletter, communications and member services issues. Plans made to recruit webmaster and to increase visibility of MLPA in neighborhood. Reorganization of membership, email and website planned for next year.

Newsletter: next issue out early April.

Zoning:

V01-53: variance to reduce rear yard setback from 15 feet to five feet for construction of garage.. Motion to approve subject to usual conditions: per the site plan filed with City on 2/09/01 with footprint not to exceed 20' x 20'; height restricted to 16 ft; electrical service limited to 60 amps; plumbing is limited to hose bib; maximum lot coverage not to exceed 50% of the total lot area. Motion to approve. Seconded. Approved.

Other announcements:

Annual meeting to be held on April 30th at 7:30 PM at Morningside Presbyterian Church. Come to hear "state of the neighborhood" and elected officials.

We are looking for a new webmaster; contact Jodi Mansbach if you are interested.

Neighbor in Candler Park, Roger Brancher, is forming a committee to combat "visual pollution" -- all the signs in our rights of way. If you are interested in helping out, contact Jodi Mansbach for more information

Cheshire Bridge meeting 3/14 with Caleb Racicot to discuss the zoning commercial/residential code.

Meeting adjourned at 8:40 PM

Next Board meeting: Monday the 9th at 7:30 pm

Minutes February 12, 2001

Meeting called to order at approximately 7:30 pm by copresident Ross Mansbach.

Board members present were Ross and Jodi Mansbach, Dianne Olansky, Joe Giardina, David Garr, Stephen Rowell, David Robertson, Judy Jameson, Alan Perry, Ruth Alexander, Martha Porter Hall, Mae Reich, Michael McCool, Bill Ellis.

Minutes approved for January.

Piedmont Park Conservancy (Debbie McCown, executive director, and Tom Walsh). Conservancy committed to raising $25 million needed to renovate park. Handout passed out. Tom Walsh's firm hired to design next phase of project. 13-3 vote at earlier meeting in favor of design. Design explained. Attempt in plan was to meet needs of varying constituiencies. Questions re paths and traffic flow; to separate boarders from pedestrians, especially children and senior citizens. Also questions re putting more hard surfaces down and whether that just increases the traffic competing with the pedestrians. Discussion as to necessity for hard surface path next to other hard surface path. Also question re protection of water wildlife. Megan from VHMPA (Parents Association) spoke in favor. As did Claire Mueller and Mae Reich. WUFG report: City Hall last week: 14-0 vote by City Council to purchase land from developer. Nature Conservancy is planning celebration on 3/16, day after closing. MLPA has been asked to be a part of planning of this celebration.

Committee reports

Security Patrol (Judy Jameson): Officer Titus was present but had to leave. Things have been quiet. Low amount of car breakins. No stats available.

Beautification -- no report.

Membership (Alan Perry): Transition of database management almost complete. John Schwartz is new manager.

Newsletter (Martha Hall): Deadline for submissions for spring issue is 3/1.

Parks (David Robertson): A big tree award given to a tree in Noble Park. (Black gum).

Schools (Joe Giardina): Next CINS meeting is February 21. Governor's Reform Act will be implemented. Best 3 city schools are in our neighborhood. Only 2 Atlanta public school recipients of Presidential Scholarship invitations were Grady students. Basketball teams successful as are Chess and Band programs.

Special Events (Mike McCool): May 25th: Celebration of Summer. From 5:30 to 8:30. More events will be available as will trash cans. Try to get 12 sponsors. Publix will donate drinks. Sign company will donate signs. Coke may donate coolers and drinks.

Traffic (Dianne Olansky): Close to 60 attended the traffic workshop. Vincent Fort and others attended. Article in City Life as well. Bill and Dianne will meet with PEDS representative for Kids Walk to School. Still trying to schedule a date for multi-neighborhood traffic slowdown with Virginia-Highlands, Druid Hills and Ansley Park. Questions re large trucks or buses parking near school forcing pedestrians to walk into the street.

Treasurer's Report (Ruth Alexander): Budget passed out. 2001 budget moved for adoption and passed unanimously.

Zoning (Stephen Rowell):

V-01-18: nonconforming structure at 1446 High Point Place; desire to add carport and second story; 2 out of 3 variances the committee had no problem with. Now owner is moving forward withou carport. Motion to follow recommendation of Zoning Committee to reduce front and side yard setbacks but to deny variance on northern yard.

V-01-04: 1129 Cumberland Road: applicant seeks to reduce side yard setback to add on to the structure. Neighbors had concerns about drainage and character of neighborhood. Motion by Committee to defer passed 4-2 but applicant wants to move forward. Position is that applicant had accepted neighbor's proposal but neighbors disagreed with this statement. Professional engineer engaged by neighbor to visit property later this week. Applicant believes that drainage problems taken care of by revised plan. Applicant desired to continue despite no compromise being reached with neighbors. Revised plan is to decrease water flow to objecting neighbors. Applicant reviewed requirements of variance. Objecting neighbor raises concerns regarding loss of greenspace and character of neighborhood. Not sure if plan takes care of drainage issues. That is why engineer is being engaged. Sunlight deprivation an issue as well. Applicant not able to consider smaller addition. Drainage probably can be solved; but sunlight and viewshed cannot be addressed unless redesigned. Comment from David Garr that variances are usually approved if no additional encroachments and follow the plane of the house. Comments by several Board members that applicant can still present to NPU if MLPA votes, consistent with Zoning Committee, to defer. Motion to defer passed with nay votes recorded.

Meeting adjourned at @ 9:15 pm.

Minutes January 8, 2001

Meeting called to order by Co-President Ross Mansbach at 7:40 PM.

Board Members in Attendance: Jodi and Ross Mansbach, Dianne Olansky, Norman McKay, Lee Kintzel, Ruth Alexander, Steven Rowell, David Garr, Bill Pardue, Michael Carroll, Judy Jameson, Mike McCool.

Minutes from December 2000 approved.

Lindbergh/MARTA October 1999 MLPA voted to send letter in support of Garden Hills opposition to the Bellsouth MARTA development plan. In November 2000 they asked for that letter --it had never been sent. Ross sent letter on behalf of MLPA that was included in Garden Hills lawsuit along with eleven other letters from surrounding neighborhoods. In December 2000 Peachtree Hills asked us to rescind our support - they have settled with the Lindbergh MARTA group and would like MLPA to consider supporting their position. Rob Novick and Bill Bozart from Garden Hills are in attendance at this meeting; Peachtree Hills declined to attend and rest on the merits of their letter. History of project as presented by Bill Bozar: a number of neighborhoods were working with MARTA Lindbergh to come to an agreement; Peachtree Hills reached an agreement. Garden Hills believes concessions were not enough and thought project was still too big. Settlement should bring in at least 8500 spaces, about 40,000 trips. 1,000 new homes, no accomodations for public lands. GH is willing to accept density and lack of amenities if they will hold to agreement of an urban transit area. They claim that the Peachtree Hills group settlement is currently being breached and that it is transit in name only. Their goal is to force MARTA to pull back and move forward with a less ambitious project based on exposure in hearings and other public forums. Motion to reaffirm: 9 in favor, 2 opposed, 2 abstain. Reaffirm October 1999 vote.

Development re: Wildwood II Jack Sibley representing Dan Metzler. Metzler has applied for a permit to build a subdivision in what is now called Wildwood II. Plans will be presented to NPU on Tuesday January 16 at 7:30. Later in the month they will present it to the city. Bureau of planning and site development people will determine whether it meets the subdivision ordinance. We have opportunity to present our views to the NPU and the city. The new subdivision is called Woodcliff Terrace and will consist of 23 lots on 31 acres. Entrance would be on Woodcliff Terrace. Lots are larger, homes will sell around $700,000-$800,000. Questions to Mr. Sibley: Will Floodplain remain? Yes, the floodplain will remain but area designated may shift. Mae Reich asked if all lots are R3. Yes. Michael Carroll asked what schedule they are on. Sibley said t hat they will begin as soon as they have permits (on Jan 31). Concern about the construction entrance to Woodcliff and whether trees will be going in and out of this area. Mr. Sibley did not know. Removal of 100 year old trees - have there been studies? Mr. Sibley believes that studies were done by urban forest. Concern about sewage issues, capacity of the street for construction, details of floodplains, wetlands. Mr. Sibley did not know answers to these questions. Neighbor concerned that Mr. Sibley is not knowledgeable about the plan and that his presence at this meeting was more form over substance. Neighbor expressed concern that this is only a subdivision ordinance. She believes that there must be some federal jurisdiction here. Motion to write letter stating our concerns to NPU and to the city. Second. Passed unanimously. Steve Rowell, Michael Carroll will speak to neighborhood representatives and write letter.

Committee Reports

Security (Judy Jameson): Officer Titus received a call during the meeting and was unable to return. No report. Mae Reich commended Security Patrol for the thoroughness of the vacation patrol. Suggestion made to run a copy of a sample report in the newsletter.

Beautification (Michael Carroll): Thanks to Morningside Garden Club for improvements to the traffic island at Johnson Road. Michael is stepping down due to time constraints but will stay on until a new Beautification chair is found.

Membership (Alan Perry, supplemental report post-meeting): Replacement found for Melissa Darrow, database manager moving out of neighborhood. Replacement is John Schwartz. Melissa thanked for her @ 2 years of work on the database.

Parks (David Robertson, report via email): Concern about home at 1794 Windemere and plans for extensive tree cuttings. The old house is to be torn down and a new mini mansion to be built by owner Sam Pignato of Metro Homes. Trees to be taken down have been marked. David is working with owner on the following to minimize tree loss: moving and reducing the 20 foot driveway to avoid a large oak and to try to save two more trees in the rear. Some of the tree loss will be replaced back on to the property. Because the total caliper of tree loss will not fit onto the property, he has asked Pignato to consider donated some trees for our parks and streets. David continues to work with the city arborist to save and replace as many trees as possible under current city law. Bill Pardue: The Parks Bureau will be furnishing new ballards for the entrance of Daniel Johnson Nature Preserve on Beech Valley Road. Two of the ballards will be of the removable type so Public Works can access the park if necessary and the remaining one will be stationery. Assistant Director Ken Gillette of the Parks Bureau will be getting estimates for the installation soon. A resident of Beech Valley Road will be furnishing a gingko tree for Beech Valley Park in consideration for a tree removed in their yard for an addition.

Schools (Joe Giardina): next CINS meeting January 17; Vincent Fort will be there.

Events: (Mike McCool): This year's Celebration of Summer will be May 25. Mike is looking for a co-chair.

Traffic (Dianne Olansky and Bill Ellis): Received check for traffic study, met with engineering firm, URS. Date for first workshop, February 10th at Morningside Presbyterian Church. Changes for the Rock Springs corridor on hold and will be included in the study. Use of laser device to track speeders in the neighborhood has yielded 92 citations gathered in only ten hours - highest were in the 50s.

Treasurers Report (Ruth Alexander): Report submitted. Board allocations meeting to be held on January 20th at the Mansbachs home.

Zoning

V-00-426, 1465 Lanier Place. This application was "deferred" (committee vote 5-0-0).

V-00-427, 1242 Pasadena Ave. A variance to reduce the side yard setback from 7' to 3' to replace a storage shed. Committee voted to recommend approval (5-0-0) based upon the following conditions:

Height no greater than 16'
Plumbing limited to a hose bib
Electrical service limited to 60 amps
Footprint of the building be limited to 16' x 20'

Motion to approve. Second. Passed unanimously. Meeting adjourned by Ross Mansbach at 9:05 PM

Minutes December 11, 2000

Co-President Ross Mansbach called the meeting to order at approximately 7:35 p.m.

Present Board members were Ross and Jodi Mansbach, Dianne Olansky, Norman McKay, David Robertson, Bill Pardue, Judy Jameson, Annette Beasley, Mae Reich, Bill Ellis, Joe Giardina, Stephen Rowell, Alan Perry and Ruth Alexander.

Representatives from Atlanta Gaslight (and contractors) reported on the changes going on in the neighborhood. Signs in place when work going on in the neighborhood. Work now going on in Wildwood area. Gas mains being replaced. Individual contacts being attempted to enable the cutoff and relighting of gas service. 30-40 minute process. If not at home, signs put on door and you can call them once you get home so that you can get your gas back on. Contractors have photo id cards and will need to enter houses to relight services and perhaps replace gas meters. Discussion re need to keep city streets clean per code. Also necessity to protect trees. And request not to park on sidewalk. Call construction coordinator per sign on project. Or call Don Thomason at atlanta gaslight company (404) 584-3356 or John Lubansky, construction superintendent, (770) 306-0917. Main lines put in first then 7-10 days later they have to come back, clear out the old main, and reconnect to the new main. Last year did 130 miles in Atlanta on this kind of work. Necessity of doing work in the winter is because of all the work of this type that needs to be done all over the place.

MSP (Security Patrol): Judy Jameson Within last month, 13 larcenies from cars, 2 burglaries, one auto theft and another larceny of car parts. Activity on the 14th on noble, pasadena and wildwood. Burglaries took place on the 4th and 28th. Again activity on 28-29 in other parts of neighborhood. Similar stats with respect to larcenies from cars. Problem with MSP phone and message emailed to all MSP members with email about problem. Looking into phone situation for the future.

Membership: Alan Perry Renewal forms and dues coming in. Melissa Darrow, the database manager for the last 1 ½ years, is moving and must resign. Volunteers with Excel experience will be sought to replace her.

Parks: Bill Pardue: Last February a sewer project was completed in Daniel Johnson Park. A 48 inch culvert used as a temporary bridge to move heavy equipment across Rock Creek was never removed by the Department of Public Works until assistance was requested from Cathy Woolards office. The railroad ties previously at the entrance were removed during the project and still have not been replaced. The Bureau of Parks has agreed to purchase removable ballards similar to what is installed in Grant Park and along the Path in 2001. A portion of Daniel Johnson Park at the intersection of Beech Valley and Pasadena was cleared during the replacement of a storm drain and Public Works agreed to furnish 25 replacement trees. Neighbor Diane Joseph was instrumental in bringing city officials and contractors together to accomplish this replacement. Neighbosr and landscape architects Laurie Jordan and Dottie Myers developed a plan for tree placement in the Park. Fourteen trees including river birch, redbud, white oak, elm and beech were planted in the park and the remaining trees were planted across the street and in area parks. David Robertson: Tree planting in Noble Park almost completed. Free street trees available for MLPA/MSP members. Call David Robertson 404-350-4828 or e mail jrobert9@mindspring.com if you want a free tree. 2/16/2001 street tree planting on Wellbourne Dr. by MLPA and Trees Atlanta--if live on Wellbourne Dr. and want a free tree, contact David. Now through the middle of March is the best time to plant trees.

Schools: Joe Giardina: schools starting back 1/4.

Traffic: overview by Diane Olansky and Bill Ellis. Working with city for 2 years, Bill involved over last year. Now real traffic committee involved as well. All residents invited to committee meetings which are held every second Tuesday at 7:30 pm at Morninside Presbyterian. Collector street residents are the most active. Trying to identify real problem areas. Meetings with City had been fairly unproductive. City asked for improvements. E. Rock springs identified as one key problem area. Big changes will be in evidence. Milling will be done along East Rock Springs from the beacon east of Morningside Elementary to North Pelham and better signs indicating a school zone will be added to this stretch. There will be a new stop sign at East Morningside for east bound traffic on North Rock Springs Road as well as a one way segment for west bound traffic on North Rock Springs Road. A new four way stop will be created at East Rock Springs Road at North Pelham and a one way segment will be created, southbound, along North Morningside. The changes will be implemented soon by the city's Bureau of Transportation Services to improve the safety of this corridor for pedestrians and drivers. Timing of changes: expected shortly after the new year. [NOTE -- since this meeting, these changes have been put on hold. Updates will be forthcoming.]

Treasurer's Report: Ruth Allen: Budget meeting planned for Mansbachs at 2 pm on the 20th. 1/8 is now really the last day for submission of budgets. Monthly report postponed until January.

Zoning: Stephen Rowell:

886 Wildwood Rd. Corner of woodcliff terrace; swimming pool in corner of backyard. Variance to put in pool; reduce side and rear yard setbacks to allow swimming pool. Committee voted to approve. Motion to approve and seconded. Passed unan. Stephen will call and remind homeowner of need to attend NPU meeting.

Dou Plex: (business located at 1789 Cheshire Bridge road). Change of ownership so it is necessary to come before the neighborhood association. Problems with noise on weekends. Mr. Alexander (the new owner) has an engineering background. He has operated roller skating rinks. Cell phone (404)273-4422. Preference is to run catering and banquet business. Night club is run out of downstairs. New owner says sound problem is going to be solved. Most of noise seems to be coming from upstairs, not downstairs nightclub. Glass doors have been replaced with cinderblock. Both of downstairs sets of double doors remain open during night club events. A/C units fixed during last ownership. Noise limit monitors to be considered and replacement of defective speakers so internal volume could be the level it needed to be but not too loud outside. Parking issue: confirmed that adequate parking exists for facility in conversation with city. New manager has given home phone number to affected neighbors, saying that if they are woken up, he should be woken up as well. Sense of association is that, assuming that parking and noise problems addressed, MLPA will not oppose the change of ownership and certain representatives may, at the NPU meeting, support the change.

Communication policy for MLPA approved. Website -- board members asked to preview before it goes live.

Meeting adjourned at @ 9:20 p.m.

Minutes November 13, 2000

Ross Mansbach called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM.

First order to approve minutes. Motion to approve. Seconded.

Present Board members were Dianne Olansky, Bill Ellis, Annette Beasley, Ross and Jodi Mansbach, Alan Perry (arrived late), Norman McKay, Mae Reich, Lee Kintzel, Michael McCool, David Robertson, Joe Giardina, Ruth Alexander and Steven Rowell.

Security: Annette Beasley attended Zone 2 meeting. They advised that with the holidays coming up watch for smash and grab crimes. Be careful.

Beautification: no report

Membership: Motion to retain overpayment of $10 by residents who did not take advantage of MSP discount offered. If MSP member asks for refund, money will be refunded. Ruth Alexander offered that membership is not a charitable deduction since we are not a 501c3. Neighbor advised that people may schedule it - check with tax adviser.

Newsletter: Deadline for next newsletter is early December.

Parks: David Robertson. Gas work along N. Highland. Please advise any employees that you see doing work to be careful of trees. Tree planting this Saturday, November 19 at 10 AM. Bring gloves, water. Look for the group along Amsterdam. Cathy Woolard is holding a District six meeting at Piedmont Park Conservancy, Magnolia Hall Tuesday, November 14 David raised the issue of asking the city for a natatorium - several new ones have been built. He will contact neighborhood residents working on this endeavour.

Education Joe Giardina: He received a thank you note from Morningside Elementary for donation. Jodi Mansbach suggested that it could get reprinted in newsletter.

Tour of Homes Tour was a huge success - record number of ticket sales. $28,000 in income from ticket sales and sponsors Thank you letter will go to sponsors and tour will be covered in upcoming newsletter. Tour committee had wrap up meeting and is interested in continuing the tour assuming chair is found by next March. Subcommittee to help identify people formed by Diane Olansky and Lee Kintzel . They will report on their progress at the January meeting and a decision will be made about whether we have the manpower to continue. Anyone who knows of potential volunteers, please call Diane or Lee.

Traffic Laser gun on loan from APD to our traffic committee. Members of the committee have been out tracking speeds and recording license plates of offenders. Data is turned over to APD who sends warning letter and advising driver that the letter will stay on file. Meet with Bureau of Traffic Services. There will be pavement grading ("milling") on N. Rock Springs from beacon on side of school to Pelham. They are also proposing structural changes to increase effectiveness of Marco Island Traffic Circle on Rock Springs.

Treasurers Report Liability policy needs to be renewed. Motion to approve funds. Seconded and approved. Ruth requested committee budgets for next year. Deadline to submit is December 8th to Ralexander@coop-tech.com. Smaller budget meeting will be set at January meeting.

Zoning

V00372 1362 N. Morningside Dr. Variance for side yard setback to build carport following line of house deferred due to uncertain effect on tree on neighbors property. Applicant met with City Arborist and contractor this morning. Dug in to look for footings looking for roots and determined that there should be no adverse effect. Arborguard will be coming as well. Request for variance contingent upon concurrence of Arborguard. Motion to approve pending Arborguard concurrence and no objection from neighbor. Seconded and passed.

V00383 1470 Lanier Place Variance for side yard setback from 7 ft to 3 ft in alignment with existing house. Deck to be built around the tree. Presented letter of approval from neighbor. Motion to approve based on site plan dated 9/15 and addition not to exceed plane of house and tree is saved. Seconded and passed.

Sidewalks New sidewalk on N. Highland. United Water is making a mess but they are fixing them. Suggestion to offer to fix Morningside Presbyterian Church sidewalk instead of making our annual donation. To be followed up on at future meeting.

New Business Email Distribution Policy Jodi and Ross Mansbach presented draft of new email policy. Jodi and Alan Perry will review document and present final version at next meeting.

Helen from Cathy Woolards office advised about meeting on 11/14 at Piedmont Park. To get on Cathys email list send your address to: Cwoolard@ci.atlanta.ga.us

Watershed alliance group is meeting. Specialists will be at Oglethrope to educate on water samples and then neighborhoods will collect samples and return for testing.

Meeting adjourned at approximately 9:15 pm.

Minutes October 9, 2000

The meeting was called to order by President-Elect Dianne Olansky on Monday 10/9/00 at @ 7:35 pm.

Present were Board members Judy Jameson, Michael Carroll, David Robertson, Martha Porter Hall, Joe Giardina, Alan Perry, Ruth Alexander, Lee Kintzel, Steven Rowell, and Norman McKay.

Motion made to approve minutes of September 2000 Board meeting. Motion passed and minutes approved.

Presentation by Dan White on DeKalb County/City of Atlanta taxes. Update. 2.5 million collected by Board of Education in 1999 due to disparities; thinks in excess of 6-7 million (all disparity money) to be collected over 2 years. City has passed ordinances requiring refunds for 1999 and 2000. Board of Education has filed suit to prevent enforcement of the ordinances. Robert Proctor has also gotten involved, objecting to the rollback of selected property taxes. Legal battles taking place. Contributions sought from affected Morningside residents of $150 per house as suggested donation. Coalition being formed around this issue. But it will cost money -- donations asked to be made out to F.A.I.R and mailed to Cynthia Zauner, 411 Candler Street NE, Atlanta GA 30307. For additional information or to volunteer for F.A.I.R (which stands for "Fair Assessment for Intown Residents"), call Greg Smith at 404/681-9945. Representative from Councilwoman Woolard's office commented that no refunds are being given because of suits. Organization's attorney's presence and contribution to suits seen as essential.

Presentation by Sarah Mock (404) 233-4142 from the Tree Conservation Commission. Gave an update on the tree ordinance; brochures handed out that outline the requirements of the ordinance. If you hear a chainsaw, and there is no permit or mark of the tree, then you can call the police; ordinance that you need to give them is Section 158-64 of the Atlanta City Code. Trees on public right of way are owned by the City and should not be cut down. For dead street tree removal or trimming, call 404-817-6813. City now has 5 arborists instead of the 1 that it used to have. Tree Conservation Commission now has 10 members; allowed to have 14. If you have an interest in serving on the Board, let her know. One difference: even dead trees need to be permitted before they could legally be cut. Question re whether Public Works contractors need to follow the ordinance. Cutting going on now or recently at Windemere, Pasadena and Beech Valley. Need to check with arborist on this issue.

Committee reports: Security Patrol: Judy Jameson reported. 8 larcenies from auto, 3 burglaries and one auto theft. Stats looking about the same as previous month. Officer Titus also present for report. Reminded everyone to call 911 if you have suspicions. One of the three burglary victims failed to call the police until the following morning, despite surprising the burglar and causing him to run out of the house that night. Email bulletin went out to MSP members last month. Try to get an email bulletin out every two months and a snail mail bulletin as well.

Beautification: Michael Carroll reported. Johnson and Lenox traffic island to be redone at request of Morningside Garden Club. Bottom line is $875 for complete redoing of island and includes annuals for this fall. Motion made to allocate this amount and seconded. Passed unan. Parks Dept. notified of Tour of Homes and requested that traffic islands be worked on. Some work noticed today. Membership: Alan Perry reported. Close to mass mailing. Proposed to send to entire database instead of just members. Cost, including postage, approximately $1500. Motion made and passed to send to entire database. Thanks to work of Betsy Scott and Marci Robinson, "welcome new neighbor" packets delivered to over 200 households recently.

Newsletter: Martha Hall reported. You should have received the newsletter by now. The next issue is on Traffic and Transportation issues. Deadline is end of November.

Parks: David Robertson reported. In conjunction with Chip Cipcic, came up with a mascot called a "Tree Eagle." The purpose is to educate the neighborhood on the tree ordinance. Motion made to approve $75 to reserve the name of treeeagle.org and $300 for yard signs to promote the website. Passed unan. Tree planting on 2/17. Motion made to spend $1000 for Noble Park and street trees. Grafitti in parks: ny and california ordinances re grafitti. Jim Martin has this issue under advisement, adding to vandalism ordinance. Threat of removing drivers' licenses as a penalty for such grafitti. CSO meeting Wednesday night at 7 pm.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. Dr. Hall will be present at next CINS meeting: 10/18. Thank you notes received from Inman and Grady; any MLPA member who needs a musical instrument tuned, just stop by Inman. Grady also sent thanks as well. Morningside needs improvement to playgrounds to protect children. Motion made to send the school $1000 (per budget) towards this project. Passed unan. Special events: Michael McCool reported that it is a quiet time for special events. He would like to recruit some help for the Celebration of Summer next year.

Tour of Homes: things look like they are on schedule.

Traffic: Dianne Olansky reported. Give us a Brake slowdown efforts: Board members who came thanked. Turn out of @ 25 people from neighborhood. 4 cars with signs; walkers in 3 crosswalks. Police presence also noted. Great articles in newspaper. Awareness increased. Dianne has received calls from folks all over city as a result of event. Deputy Chief Wesley Derrick has agreed to train Dianne on the laser detector and warning letters will be sent to violators (which could be used against them to increase punishment in the future). Questions re new water pipes on N. Highland and blockage of street.

Treasurer's report: Ruth Alexander reported. question re difference in website dues. Need to make it consistent with new member solicitations.

Zoning: Steven Rowell reported.

V-00-336-1263 Beech Valley Road -- problem with removal of water oak tree. Tree is 9 feet from house and addition cannot be built without removal of tree. Owners have added 24 inches of trees since they have been there. Variance is to build first floor addition; side yard setback remains the same. Extensive discussion regarding what might happen if arborist decides that tree needs to be replaced. Zoning committee supported the application with the request that if the arborist decides that the tree needs to be replaced, that this be done in the neighborhood either directly or through donations to MLPA Parks Committee or a suitable organization. Arborist will make decision; this is only suggestion from MLPA. Motion made to approve application for reduction of side yard setback (with same footprint; no extension) with condition that should arborist require replacement and that not be practical on site, MLPA suggests that donation be done as set out above. Passed.

V-00-342 - 1689 Johnson Road -- construction of detached carport. Variance sought to decrease 17 yard setback to 10 yards. Amount of impervious surface will be decreased in backyard. Same problem with trees; 70 inches total of trees will be removed. Motion from committee to approve with same suggestion. Passed unan.

Sidewalk Committee: Lee Kintzel reported. Home Rebuilder, sponsor of Tour of Homes, gave $1200 donation for sidewalk repair. 3 in works on N. Highland Avenue. Question re what should be done if Public Works tears up sidewalks. Lee will check on this.

Question/issue re Piedmont Park 12th Street entrance: do away with the addon sidewalk because of damage to trees and overpaving of park. Va-Highland Assoc. stated its approval; Park said that it would probably remove addon sidewalk if there were neighborhood approval. David R. will draft letter. Consensus that sidewalk addition should be removed.

Cheshire Bridge Road: concerns re use of ordinance to open up bars with restaurant liquor license. Letter to be sent to Norman Koplon about potential misuse of ordinance with placement of bar called "Ho Downs" into property at 2196 Cheshire Bridge Rd. formerly occupied by San Genaro restaurant.

Meeting adjourned @ 9:35 pm.

Minutes September 11, 2000

Board members present: Dianne Olansky, Alan Perry, Ross Mansbach, Joe Giardina, Annette Beasley, Mae Reich, David Robertson, Ruth Alexander President Ross Mansbach convened meeting at @ 7:35 p.m.

Minutes of August meeting moved for approval; City Arborist phone number is actually (404) 330-6874. With that change, August minutes approved.

Security Patrol: Annette Beasley reported (along with Officer Titus): Stats for July: 15 larcenies and 3 burglaries; August: 12 larcenies and 2 auto thefts. Officer Titus reported that car breakins often take place near corner of Piedmont and Monroe but this was not true last month. They were spread out fairly evenly through the neighborhood. Officer Titus said that the one thing you can do is call 911 if you see someone that you have a gut feeling does not belong in the neighborhood, especially if you see someone carrying something valuable walking down the street. Update requested about the Johnson Road assault; problem with lack of identifying information from victim because she was knocked nearly unconscious so perpetrator may not be found. Judy Jameson and Annette attended the Zone Two meeting; obviously a lot of emphasis being given to Buckhead but we were assured that our neighborhood and others are still being covered. Increase in night time crime; increase in purse snatching in grocery stores in Paces Ferry area.

Beautification: Michael Carroll reported that 2 people interested in adopting markers; 4 markers we are trying to have adopted; 2 have been adopted and 2 others may be interested. $8000 suggested to be returned to general fund which will be done at next budget process. Michael spoke with Coldwell Banker and looking at putting some of their advertising money into neighborhood. Wanted to see what Park Pride signs looked like. These are wooden signs with adoptee's name and various logos, including Park Pride's. Signs have been approved for traffic islands. Design from Morningside Garden Club for important traffic island. Their time is more limited but more info needed re cost of plants. Planting date is beginning of November. Numbers will be provided next month. Look will be "cottage garden" look; more perennials.

Cheshire Bridge: last Thursday of month at 6:00 pm at the Colonnade is monthly task force meeting.

Membership: Alan Perry reported that outreach effort headed up by Betsy Scott is nearing completion. Annual neighborhood wide membership drive is on schedule and mailing should go out in late September or early October.

Newsletter: Martha Porter Hall reported that Tour of Homes issue has been sent to printer and should go to mailer shortly. Idea of a theme issue raised for next issue, perhaps on traffic/transportation/sidewalks.

Parks: David Robertson reported. A new tree ordinance is in effect, 00-0-0654. Any tree over 6" in diameter in the City of Atlanta must have a permit issued for it to be chopped down. After arborist grants preliminary approval, sign posted, and tree painted at ground level and chest height; people can appeal within 15 days and nothing can be cut during that time. Any tree of this size without this notice or paint shows that it was not permitted. Alert the city arborist or the police if you find such a tree. In addition, trees on the public right of way cannot be removed without city approval. If tree is dead, call for its removal at 404 817-6813. For ideas for replacements, contact drobertson@mindspring.com.

1992 tree ordinance for parking lots has never been enforced but now it is; kudos to Va-Highland Association for working to get this enforced. Parking lots in excess of 30 parking spaces must have 1 shade tree per 8 spaces. A 5 foot landscape stripe between the parking lot and the sidewalk and barrier curbs serve to protect the vegetation and pedestrians. Initially we were told only applied to new parking lots but that is not how it was written so we're going to see more enforcement. Need for backflow device so that we have working drinking fountain at Lenox-Wildlwood park. Motion made to contribute $120. Passed unanimously. Illegal dumping: People who live near parks (example being Sussex Roads) should know that the Parks Department will start fining people who place yard trash in or next to the park. Such trash needs to be placed in front of the residence. Parks Department can fine up to $2000. Sanitation Dept. will not pick up yard trash on the park curb, forcing Parks Dept. to remove it.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported. First CINS meeting will be 9/20. Donation requests received from Grady High School and Inman. Grady asked for help with 3 projects: student ID cards are not presently capable of being manufactured. They also want to build a school hall of fame and institute a dancing program. Total of 4500 in budget; none yet given to any school. Motion to donate $1000 to Grady for these programs. Passed unanimously. Inman wants/needs a Peterson Strobe Tuner for their band which costs $3000. Motion to donate $1000 to Inman for this project. Passed unanimously. We expect to receive a proposal from Morningside Elementary soon.

Tour of Homes: Pres. Mansbach reported for Edward Krugman that recent City Life article mentioned the Tour; website has info; marketing plan in effect; the Tour takes place on October 14 and 15; still need volunteers; people are urged to email Carol Almond at msidetour@aol.com or call her at (404) 876-8604 to volunteer.

Traffic: Dianne Olansky reported. Application for traffic study has been turned into city; time for it to circulate various govt. halls. N. Pelham and E. Rock Springs was thought to be approved for 4 way stop but this is NOT correct. E. Morningside at Rock Springs will be 4-way stop but now new traffic engineer oon board. He spent 2 hours with Dianne Olansky and Bill Ellis walking intersections. New traffic engineer concerned with speed of traffic in neighborhood. No new updates from Major Spillane. Give us a Brake will be held on 9/28; focusing on area around Morningside Elementary; need people to walk in crosswalks and to stand on sidewalks with signs. Call Dianne Olansky or email at olansky@mindspring.com. Morning rush hour; 7:30-9. No rain date.

Treasurer's report: Ruth Alexander reporting that Celebration of Summer money has almost completely come in. Tour of Homes sponsorships presently total $12000.

Zoning: Stephen Rowell reported:

V-00-271: 1011 McLynn Avenue - garage placed in present footprint: overhang not cross property line and have gutter with downspout directed on own property; non combustible siding due to proximity to other building; usual 4 conditions plus site plan. Zoning committee voted approval. Motion made to approve variance with these conditions to approve decrease of side and rear yard setbacks. Passed unanimously.

V-00-295: 830 Courtenay Drive - also decrease in rear and side yard setbacks to add second story. House built prior to zoning code so encroachments present. Addition of bay window adds slightly to encroachment. Motion made to approve with conditions. Passed unan.

Sidewalks: no report.

Question re whether portapotty in street violated any law. Problem with one on wildwood place.

Locator: need for volunteers.

Question re sanitation ordinance and cost of charges; 208 per residence plus 23.54 for each 25 feet of paved street frontage and a 30 recycling fee. Check your invoice to see if correct. Ordinance is Section 130-84.

Inserection adult fantasy store expanded. 1739 Cheshire Bridge Rd. Parent company is a communications company. Issue now in Bureau of Buildings domain. David will work with Zoning Committee to get letter out to Bureau to watch out for zoning violations.

Letter to editor of Atlanta Business Chronicle recently published addressing the re-creation of I485 idea (sent by former neighbor); watch out for President Mansbach's response.

Meeting adjourned at @ 9:15 pm.

Minutes August 14, 2000

Convened by CoPresidents Jodi and Ross Mansbach at @ 7:35 pm.

Board members present were: Edward Krugman, Dianne Olansky, Norman McKay, Alan Perry, David Garr, Steven Rowell, Judy Jameson, Annette Beasley, Bill Ellis, Mae Reich, Michael Carroll, David Robertson, Bill Pardue, Joe Giardina, Martha Hall, Lee Kintzel.

Announcement about a free show by production company named Gardenhouse Mowing to be given in Sunken Garden Park on dates of August 20, 27 and Sept. 10 at 7 p.m.

Security Patrol: Judy Jameson introduced Annette Beasley, MSP co-chair, and Rick Vazquez, lead officer with MSP. Officer Vazquez reported on sexual assault on Johnson Rd. that took place this morning. Cannot go into particulars because it is an open investigative file. Alerting citizens of neighborhood by one-call method and printing up bulletins once identification of perpetrator and vehicle able to be described. 5:50 am while victim was jogging. Will use MSP budget for one-call to all neighborhood.

Beautification: Michael Carroll: catchme4@msn.com is his new email address. New letter re bridge for Wildwood Gardens. Needs to get more positive response from landscape companies re maintenance projects. Cheshire bridge report: waiting on traffic count numbers; even if numbers don't justify traffic study, city open to other possibilities. Cheshire Bridge Task Force meetings take place the third Thursday of every month at the Colonnade restaurant.

Membership: Alan Perry reported that membership renewal letters are being worked on. In addition, Betsy Scott is working on an outreach project to reach new neighbors.

Newsletter: Martha Hall reported that August 15th: copy deadline. Tour of homes issue upcoming. Delayed summer issue should be received shortly. CoPresidents reported that it was an excellent issue.

Feature story on Ms. Mary (Bitsy) Mcpherson in earlier issue: first sidewalk repaired; house hit by lightning and neighbor saw fire and got her elderly neighbor out in time; donations can be sent to Gail Kropf, 803 Cumberland Road (404) 874-1809 or Laurie Wise, 827 Cumberland Road (404) 874-1809. Relatives suggested donation of fruit basket by Association; suggestion re donation and question about MLPA making donations to individuals. Motion passed unan to give fruit basket.

Parks: Bill Pardue reported: DHR sponsoring state wide river cleanup: 9/30 at 9:00 am for Rock Creek cleanup. Trees Atlanta newsletter recognized MLPA as a patron for donation. 10/14 TA sponsoring tree sale at Piedmont park from 9-4. Most expensive will be @ $60. Sale to take place near Conservancy. USA Today rated parks in 25 largest cities; Atlanta got only 2 stars and only 3 cities just got 1 star. City pays about 22.50 per city resident compared to Seattle paying over $160 per resident for parks.

David Robertson reported that Va-Highland Assoc. got successful judgment with respect to developer's wishes to cut down trees near Freedom Parkway at 830 Ponce de Leon Ave. Hopeful that negotiation will take place. MLPA Tree Watch project started. Communicate with city arborist if you see any potential tree-cutting going on with development; assume that developer has no permission. Call arborist at (404) 330-6847. Suggestion re letter to judge and city solicitor re weak fine imposed upon developer of only $250. More information will be collected re facts of case. Another letter suggested re enforcement of tree ordinance in parking lots Chip Cipcic will be heading up Tree Watch project and neighborhood education. Please note that any tree over 6 inches in diameter at chest height must be "permitted" before it can be cut down. In addition, any tree located on the street right of way cannot be trimmed or removed without the arborist's permission and a permit. Fines and jail time can be imposed.

Schools: Joe Giardina reported: first day of school. Support wrapping paper and magazine sales. CINS first meeting will be in October. Inman first in middle schools in state; support it and Morningside and Grady.

Tour of homes: Edward Krugman as co-chair of tour of homes. All houses should be confirmed this week. 4 homes already confirmed. Sponsorships underway. Kate Gaddy one of the committee chairs who is doing a lot of work on this project. October 14th and 15th is the weekend.

Traffic: Dianne Olansky and Bill Ellis reported: stopsigns requested to make 3 intersections all-way stops; Bureau of Traffic Services essentially rejected two and one was put on hold. Reflector bumps may be placed in front of school but that is also on hold. Any concerns re size of trucks driving through neighborhood -- we have letter that can be sent to company. Proposal re traffic study to be put together this week. On Sept.28 in morning rush hour traffic, traffic awareness event, possibly including "slowdowns" through neighborhood, will be held to increase traffic awareness. Volunteers needed to hand out flyers and hold signs at intersections. PEDS crossing at 13th and Peachtree -- instructive. City Life article authored by D. Olansky appeared in recent newspaper. Suggestion re barrel in middle of street with sign saying "stop for pedestrians in crosswalk." Traffic engineers may not like things in the street. Suggestion re writing Bureau of Traffic Services with suggestions but focus on traffic on collector streets in neighborhood and make letters concise and to the point.

Treasurer's report: handed out. Question re budget process.

Zoning:

Z-00-176; 702 Cumberland; reduction in rear yard setback; also needs side yard setback variance and wants increased amount of coverage by structure in rear yard; amended to request 62% of rear yard coverage. 2 variances heard but third not heard by zoning committee. 4th not even made yet but seems to be required. Amendment of application after zoning committee. Owner made presentation; during construction or renovation, builders exceeded plans. Steep driveway that is against granite foundation on one side and dropoff to neighbor's property on other side. Need to turn around once get to back yard; cannot park on street because of fire hydrant in front of house. Concern expressed by neighbor about runoff, according to owner. Does not know specifics of concern. Letters from neighbors given to committee except from two; one with runoff reservations. Permitted amount would not require a variance but more than the permitted amount was built. Problem with amount of impervious percentage. 696 cumberland owner spoke, concerned about runoff; raised question with city and city is requiring variance applications. Garage moved back 2 feet; issue is whether you can store 3 cars back there instead of 2. Driveways are 8 feet in width, as are many in this neighborhood. Questioned extent of overimperviousness. Side yard and rear yard setbacks need variances; as does more than 25% of coverage of rear yard and imperviousness covering more than 50%. Motion to deny all variances as requested in 3 variance requests: passed with one no vote.

Z-00-58; 2006 Manchester Street: rezoning from used car lot with no alteration of facade. Owner wants to rezone it to C2C. No kind of sex shop and agreed to rezone to C1C. Also asked to change to neighborhood commercial (which does not exist right now) and applicant agreed. Discussions with caterer as possibility. Discussion of language re adult business prohibition. Motion to support rezoning with conditions as discussed. Passed unan.

V-00-44; 1729 Pine Ridge Drive; kitchen addition: change side setback from 10' to 6'. Letter from neighbor on side of setback needing variance stating no problems. Motion made to follow rec. of zoning committee to approve variance. Passed unan.

V-00-259; 915 E. Rock Springs - for a variance to reduce side yard setback.. Letter from neighbor expressing concern re pine tree and drainage system. Agreeable to conditions being imposed re no danger to pine tree and french drains. Motion to recommend approval based upon four standard conditions and replacement of tree and construction of french drains. Passed unan.

V-00-261; 684 E. Pelham Rd.; corner lot; half-depth yard; requesting to put solid fence instead of less dense fence which would not be that visible from street because of foliage. Asking for special exception to make fence solid instead of half open. Motion to approve. Passed unan.

V-00-273; 722 Sherwood Road; variance on side and rear yards being requested. Letters from all neighbors who could see structure do not oppose. 4 standard conditions imposed by committee. Motion made to approve variance with those conditions. Passed unan.

V-00277; 1409 Northview Ave. second story addition; letters from neighbors expressing no opposition; variance needed to reflect existing setbacks. Side yard setback from 7 to 2; front yard from 35 to 31 feet. Committee rec. approval with 2 conditions: application as submitted and all new construction to be held back 4 feet from the side yard property line. Passed with one abstention.

Z-00-63; 2036-2040 Rockledge Road - rezoning; from R4 to RLC. Corner of rockledge and bismarck. Pictures of surrounding houses. Letters from 100% of R4 owners using property as residences. Agreed to no adult businesses; owner's business is nearby. Would have to come back to MLPA if sought to use space as restaurant. Committee approved with "no adult business" language. Motion to approve passed with one nay vote and three abstentions.

Lee Kintzel: 15 sidewalks completed and reimbursed. A couple sidewalks approved on N. Highland for repair but not yet completed. Would like to figure out way to do all of N. Highland.

Working on website.

Issue re parking up on curb. Also cannot park in driveway so as to block sidewalk. Deputy Chief Wesley Derrick commented on those issues and stated that ticketing could take place.

Meeting adjourned at @ 9:45 p.m.

Minutes July 10, 2000

Call to order at 7:35 PM

MLPA Board Members in attendance: Norman McKay, Michael Carroll, Dianne Olansky, Judy Jameson, Mike McCool, David Garr, Steven Rowell, Ruth Alexander, David Robertson, Bill Ellis, Jodi Mansbach, Ross Mansbach

Motion to approve June minutes. Seconded. Passed all in favor.

Security: Judy reported that she did not have the recent crime statistics but noted that there had been increased graffiti at the parks especially Lenox Wildwood and Wildwood Gardens. She spoke to the officers and they are going to devote more time to these areas. Officer Rick Vasquez then reported that the recent crime statistics showed 0 vehicle breakins (unprecedented, usually 8-10 per month). He reiterated the problem with graffiti and said that the Patrol will have stakeouts in the evening hours to watch for this. During this time there will be zero tolerance do not go into the parks after hours since they will be monitored.

Beautification: Michael Carroll reported that other neighborhoods are reporting problems with graffiti too. He thanked the people who have been helping to water and to make sure that our islands survive the drought. He had a call from VA Highlands re: a joint planting project along Amsterdam and will look into costs.

Membership: Alan Perry is not in attendance; Jodi Mansbach taking minutes.

Newsletter: Martha and Van Hall continue to work on summer issue; will be out shortly.

Parks: David Robertson met with Georgia Power at Wildwood Lenox Park agreed to put more lighting in the park. We have to pay for the pole, $242 to light the area over the parking lot. Motion to approve this expense. Seconded. Passed unanimously. David has also done a survey of areas around the neighborhood that could use trees -- he has identified 37 locations along Lenox, Rock Springs and Morningside. He¹ll flyer the houses and look into costs of obtaining trees through trees Atlanta. Anticipates it will cost about $1000 but will bring figures to next meeting. They will order by fall to plant November-January.

School: No report

Celebration of Summer: Mike McCool confirmed that the sponsors will be acknowledged in the next newsletter. He is compiling a list of volunteers from this past year. Tour of Homes Edward Krugman is the new Tour of Homes Chair. Home selection committee is busy identifying homes and sponsorship is bringing in supporters already.

Traffic: Dianne Olansky and Bill Ellis reported that they received a report on ticketing from Major Spillane which will be useful as a point of comparison month by month. The officers are planning to begin ticketing for pedestrian related offenses; to date, it¹s been mainly speeding. Still no word on funding for traffic study. Treasurer: Ruth Alexander has brought monthly report. Ross asked Norman about budget for Tour of Homes to help other neighborhoods who have approached us for advice.

Zoning

V-00-232 700 Greystone Park Applicant would like variance to reduce rear yard setback 15 ft to 7 ft, for garage (1 car garage with storage area porch on top). Applicant¹s goal is to use existing driveway and build into bank at back of house. He has chosen position of garage to minimize damage to poplar. . Spoke to neighbor adjacent and has letter of support as long as there is no water runoff. Neighbor from 1704 E Rock Springs voiced concern about stressing trees on his property Zoning committee recommended approval based on the addition of dimensions, poplar tree be examined by city arborist prior to NPUF meeting. Question about whether area was sufficiently flyered. MLPA Motion to defer until applicant gets with more neighbors. Second. Passed.

V-00-176 702 Cumberland Road NE Variance for rear yard setback from 15 ft to 4 ft for accessory structure (existing shed) and a variance to exceed 25% of rear yard area for accessory structures. Applicant¹s attorney requested deferral because he wants to amend variance. Neighbor spoke about how water runoff is causing problems on his property. Motion to defer. Seconded. Passed.

Z-00-58 2006 Manchester RD Rezoning from C-2-C to C-2. Zoning committee passed motion to defer pending approval by Cheshire Bridge Task Force. MLPA motion to defer. Seconded. Passed.

Z-00-60 1710 Merton Road NE Rezoning double lot from R-3 to R3A to build a new single family home. Zoning committee denied application. Applicant acknowledged opposition and withdrew application. MLPA motion to approve withdrawal of variance. Seconded. Passed.

South MLPA At Large: Phyllis Wingo is resigning her position due to other time commitments. MLPA thanked her for all her hard work on behalf of the DeKalb/Fulton tax issue. Phyllis will prepare status report and job description so replacement can be found.

New Business: Michael Carroll (Cheshire Bridge Task Force) reported that the group had a presentation from a group interested in purchasing the DOT property. They want to build a small Kroger with retail and some residential. Looking for a land swap for property with same acreage on Lydell.

Meeting adjourned at 8:50 PM.