WECAN June 2016 General Membership Meeting Minutes • Draft

WECAN General Membership Meeting Minutes June 2, 2016

Board Members present: Byron Ballard, Jessie Nell Coleman, Joe Fioccola, Rebecca Lance, Rachel Larson, Luke Perry and Pattiy Torno.

Members not present:, Tom Gibson, AnnaBeth Hardcastle, Mike Kenton,  Floree Lowery, JoAnn Skinner and Suzanne Willis.

 Also present: Paul D’Angelo, Susan Haynes, Rafael Rettig, Assistant Planning Director Alan Glines, APD Sergeant Lisa Taube, APD Officer Anthony Sorangelo and Marsha Stickford.

Byron called the meeting to order at 6:35 pm after a round of introductions.

MINUTES: Minutes of the May meeting were approved as emailed.

TREASURER'S REPORT: AnnaBeth emailed that there was no activity in May.

APD/CRO UPDATE: Lisa is the Sergeant for the North/Central District and reported for CRO Lucas Lovelace and Sean Davis that many campsites have been moved along in May but it is an ongoing effort. There have been more vehicle break-ins and she urged residents to lock their vehicles, secure their valuables and if left inside to cover or keep them out of sight. Last Sunday there was a huge parking problem at Flea to Y’all on Riverside Drive with hundreds of cars parked blocking bicycle lanes and railroad tracks. This ongoing event occurs the last Sunday of the month and there should be warning signs posted by next time. There was also a problem of people camping behind the United Christian Church at 10 Roberts St even after being told to move. She encouraged anyone who sees suspicious people or activity to call the non emergency police number (252-1110.) Calls will help to build a picture of where patrol is needed.  Jessie reported people camping behind her house on Knoxville Place. Rafael asked about plans for patrolling the greenways that will be coming soon. If they are designated as parks then they will be closed after 10 pm and downtown bike units or supplemental until may be used to patrol them. Marsha advised that there will be lighting plans and that Parks and Rec and APD will be working together to come up with strategies to keep them safe. Rafael noted that in other cities crime decreased when greenways are put in. Pattiy reported an ongoing problem with drunks and panhandlers at Curve Studios and a noise problem at 4 am on Wednesdays when the dumpster at the Wedge is emptied. Susan noted the continuing problem of speeding traffic on Roberts Street and no sidewalks.

 BLOCK JESSIES: There was some storm water work completed on Knoxville Place. Several old trees were cleared from Green Street and Girdwood Street. The problem with construction materials stored in the street on Jefferson has been taken care of.  Rebecca reported that ten blueberry bushes have been planted near the Community Garden. Big thanks to Asheville Green Works and the Community Foundation’s Power of the Purse fundraiser.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING AT 338 HILLIARD AVENUE:

Paul D’Angelo, the Director of Affordable Housing at Tribute Co LLC explained his background working for neighborhood revitalization with the Housing Authority in Wilmington and was hired by CEO Matt Maynard, a for profit developer, to demonstrate that affordable housing is not exclusively reliant on non-profit agencies. Tribute will submit a proposal to the city on July 11 for mixed income affordable workforce housing. Their goal is to propose the highest number of units, affordable for the longest period of time and require the least amount of incentives from the city. In addition, they want to include a core community center to be useful to the neighborhood and are considering access to healthy food, a child care component and have been in touch with the YWCA, Smart Start and First Presbyterian. Their philosophy is that the urban center should not be a playground for the wealthy and the question of the limited availability of parking was also discussed. Tribute will develop, build and maintain the facility. The Parks Department will vacate by March 2017 and if selected by the city, construction should take about a year.  Other Tribute projects in town are at 150 and 185 Coxe Avenue.  

RAD FORM BASED CODE: Alan Glines explained that the first draft was completed on March 7. He provided maps which showed 9 different districts—most of which are mixed use. The plan is struggling with height recommendations and view sheds and the particulars of the terrain. Luke observed that what one thing that attracts people to the neighborhood is the sight and access to the river.  Pattiy noted that the problem is escalating land values forcing landowners to overdevelop or develop up. Alan explained the reasons for more weight given to comments of property owners in the River Arts District so that people impacted are given appropriate weight and that Open City Hall had the ability to break out location information to help with weighting. Byron asked where neighborhoods fit in to the comprehensive plan because if it is already decided then don’t waste our time. Gentrification is here and what protection do we have left? Alan explained that the city is struggling to manage the growth in keeping with community goals. The next draft of the Form based Code is due between last August and Early September, so there will be more opportunity for input and then it will go through more hearings and on to Council for approval. Marsha asked how the Gentrification study and Equitable Development fit in. Also the next draft will be almost ready to go so any comments should go soon to Sasha Vrtunski.

PLAN ON A PAGE: Joe explained the purpose of “Plan on a Page” to articulate neighborhood visions for the comprehensive plan to read from the 50 or so neighborhoods and incorporate common themes into the Comprehensive Plan. While Rebecca attending the workshop learned they don’t want it to be too specific, Joe explained that they don’t want specific properties but general ideas such as commercial development is preferred on the first block of Clingman Avenue.. Rachel and Joe and Byron have worked on a draft for some of the questions: Neighborhood Description, History, Vision, Strengths, Challenges, Responsibility and alignment with City Goals. Joe discussed the visions from previous WECAN Plans and how much the neighborhood has changed in the last  22 years and only a fraction of the people who created those visions are still here. Joe took a suggestion from Pattiy to revise the History and will reword the Vision and send it out again and receive edits/comments by June 24 and incorporate them into a final draft to go out to the board by June 27 and submitted to the city by July 1. 

EDIBLE PLANTING PROPOSAL: Pattiy reported that Gabi White did not get the ‘Awesome Grant’          but she did locate an email from last year from McRae Coates about replacing the planting where the DOT repaired the sink hole in front of Grey Eagle. She has contacted NCDOT Division of Highways about making some of the plantings edible and will follow up next week hoping to get all the parties to work together. Also Gabi did receive a check (unknown amount) for edibles but the check went to Awesome.

WECAN GARDEN CLUB: Joe reported the club was rained out on the 11^th and on the 25^th worked the ‘sign garden’ and hedges. This month on the 11^th will tackle to rest of Owens-Bell Park weeding.—weather permitting and on the 29^th will work on Hilliard Avenue.

OWENS-BELL STREAM DRIED UP?: Luke heard that the stream at Owens-Bell Park had completely dried up. Not sure if this is related to the recent storm water work completed on Knoxville Place. Marsha will check with the city.

Meeting adjourned at 8:45 pm

Minutes submitted by Joe Fioccola

WECAN May 2016 Board Meeting Minutes • Draft

WECAN Board Meeting May 5, 2016

Board Members present: Byron Ballard, Joe Fioccola, Rebecca Lance, Rachel Larson, Luke Perry and Pattiy Torno. Members not present: Jessie Nell Coleman, Tom Gibson, AnnaBeth Hardcastle, Mike Kenton, Yuri Koslen, Floree Lowery, JoAnn Skinner and Suzanne Willis. Also present: APD Officer Lucas Lovelace and Marsha Stickford. Rachel called the meeting to order at 6:36 pm

MINUTES: Minutes of April meeting were approved as emailed on May 5with the 5 points on the Pollinator Agreement corrected.  TREASURER'S REPORT: Rebecca read a report from the Treasurer. The outstanding reimbursement for the November WECAN News was paid and the balance is around $600 and AnnaBeth is still trying to get the monthly statement charges removed.

 APD/CRO UPDATE: Lucas reported that in April there was an incident of the Boy Scout’s flag being removed and burned. All leads have been exhausted. Also three homeless campers were removed about three weeks ago. Two were new arrivals in the area thinking it was okay to set up camps. There were no car break-ins in WECAN in April but there were several in the North area. Please keep locking and unloading valuables. The Downtown Unit arrested two graffiti taggers on some 40 charges.  Pattiy asked about a noise problem at 4 AM from the dumpster at the Wedge. She was encouraged to call it in to the non-emergency police number (828 252-1110) even if they are moving quickly. More information always helps such as name of company and direction of travel but violations of the noise ordinance are taken seriously and the companies are aware of it and will be called. The noise ordinance is in effect from 11 pm to 7 am and applies to regular businesses such as bars and breweries, construction sites and even lawn mowing. Rachel asked about an animal control issue. Leash laws do apply everywhere in the city but ‘invisible fences’ are allowed on private property. All animals should be registered with the city with proof of rabies shots. This can be done on line. Marsha affirmed that the city was working on better communication and signage for all the new construction disruptions and delays expected in the coming months. There is Everbridge-- a reverse 911 system that can address specific geographic areas. People can also sign up for Citizen Alerts and specify how they want to be contacted. There was a question about the expanded use of NextDoor.com by the Sheriff’s Department. Marsha noted that the Police and Fire were now pushing some information to specific areas but were not overdoing it. She will review who all else is using it. Luke asked about markings on the streets of West Haywood and Hilliard. They are survey points by a contractor for Duke Progress for proposed new higher power poles. It is not clear if they will run to a new sub-station on Hilliard at Asheland or not. Marsha suggested we ask Steph Monson to get Duke to come to a WECAN Meeting and talk to us about their plans. Joe reported that a recent Adopt a Highway cleanup revealed more sleeping sites behind the WECAN sign and under the bushes across Hilliard. BLOCK JESSIES: Joe announced that Luke has passed inspection and had moved into 6 Rector Street. He moved that Luke’s membership in WECAN change from At-Large to Resident Board member--since Yuri has moved out of WECAN leaving a vacancy on the board.   The motion passed. Rebecca asked about a traffic issue for eastbound traffric on Hilliard who have difficulty turning north on Clingman due to backed up oncoming traffic. Marsha will ask Jeff to devise a strategy to address it. Luke asked for more regular updates on the large developments such as Patton Place Apartments, Hotel or apartments at Meeker Volvo, and Meehan Maintenance Facility. Marsha will ask Alan Glines to keep us informed. Luke also asked about bad patching and paving on Haywood Street at the new Hyatt Place Hotel and on Hilliard across from CED. They are a hazard for bicyclists and motorists.

EDIBLE PLANTING PROPOSAL: Pattiy reported that Gabi White had been to RADBA with a $1000 grant proposal to put in an edible planting in the clear area near Grey Eagle.  RADBA already pays $2100 a year to maintain plantings there and they care about what goes in and want a say in what and where and how. Pattiy and Matt Sprouse had volunteered to help but were rudely cut out of the process.  Marsha observed that Amber Weaver is trying to develop a program like in Decatur but there needs to be a maintenance agreement (such as partnerships with Asheville Green Works or Be City) There needs to be a plan and it needs to be approved and it should come before WECAN first if it wants to happen inside the WECAN area.

PLAN ON A PAGE: Rachel attended the drop in work session on April 19 and is working on answering the questions which are due by May 15.

RAD FORM BASED CODE: Comments can be still be made but only until Sunday May 8 at ‘Open City Hall” online. There are links to the report and background information, and questions to consider. More weight is given to comments of property owners in the River Arts District but all comments are taken seriously especially if the code impacts areas outside the district. Sasha Vrtunski is in charge of Equitable Development for the greater community and needs to know the impact to WECAN and viewsheds, traffic, noise, etc. and also what the benefits are.

WECAN GARDEN CLUB: Joe suggested that the Gardners meet on the second and fourth Wednesdays from May to November—weather permitting. They are working on a priority list and are open to suggestions.

 WECAN COMMUNITY GARDEN: A general meeting has been called for Saturday May 7 at Noon on site to sign waivers, assign beds, and plant donated starts. The pollinator garden on the west side of the driveway has been planted and the blueberry bushes should arrive soon for the east side. Cardboard and more mulch are scheduled to keep the paths clear.

PLAN FOR 2016: Joe reminded that the semiannual WECAN General Membership Meeting should be at the June 2 meeting.  Marsha also announced that National Night Out (first Tuesday in August) were encouraging neighborhood projects rather than centralized activities.

ASTON PARK MASTER PLAN: Looking for reactions Joe thought some of the language was arrogant and officious. Also the document was incomplete—lacking the site plan and philosophy or rationale or definitions of ‘passive park’ and of course ignoring the community input (which asked for swings.). 

STAND AGAINST RACISM: the DOT removed and will continue to remove anything suspended from the pedestrian crossing signal poles. The banner was returned to Mountain Housing and Barb Mee offered to get some temporary poles for the hanging of such banners.

MELK ORCHARD: Joe and Byron will meet on Tuesday at 9:30 with Eric from Asheville Green Works and a representative from the NCDOT about a proposal for placement of an orchard across from Asheville Transit --initially proposed in 2013. The wheels of progress grind exceedingly slow.

WILMA DYKEMAN BIRTHDAY PARTY: Marsha invited everyone to attend on Friday May 20^th 4-6 pm at the Jean Webb Park.

Meeting adjourned at 7:50 pm Minutes submitted by Joe Fioccola

WECAN April 2016 Board Meeting Minutes • Draft

WECAN Board Meeting April 7, 2016

Board Members present: Jessie Nell Coleman, Joe Fioccola, Rebecca Lance, Rachel Larson and Luke Perry. Members not present: Byron Ballard, Tom Gibson, AnnaBeth Hardcastle, Mike Kenton, Yuri Koslen, Floree Lowery, JoAnn Skinner, Pattiy Torno and Suzanne Willis. Also present: APD Officer Brandon Shope, Marsha Stickford and Gregory Ness. Rachel called the meeting to order at 6:30 pm

MINUTES: Minutes of March meeting were approved as distributed.  TREASURER'S REPORT: No report. APD/CRO UPDATE: Brandon reported that in March there was a break in to an unlocked vehicle and residence at 69 Park Avenue North. Cash and a cell phone were taken from the home.  Brandon will email a copy of a brochure about how to prevent car break-ins: Secure it, Lock it, Hide it. It is important to convince neighbors that an unlocked vehicle is more likely to be broken into than a locked one and the risk of a broken window on a locked vehicle is much smaller if there is nothing visible to steal. There is an increase of itinerant camping going on with the warmer weather. Six campsites were cleared in March. Joe reported that people have been sleeping and leaving debris under the bushes on the NW corner of Clingman and Hilliard. At 191 Lyman Street two people were arrested on felony drug charges and also had graffiti supplies and a cell phone was secured that may have evidence of more graffiti vandalism. Rebecca reported there was a big fire in the Clingman Forest on March 22 and someone was found sleeping on Suzanne’s porch. BLOCK JESSIES: There are several houses in transition now. Two are for sale on Jefferson and one on W Haywood. 83 Clingman was just sold and 116? is being renovated. Joe noticed that Vaughan and Melton were doing some surveying in the Melk area across from Transit-- not sure on whose behalf.  Big thanks to Marsha for the repaired fence on Hilliard and the shoulder work on Green Street. Jessie saw a notice in Friday’s paper about a meeting on Monday April 4 about the potential hotel becoming apartments. Luke did not pass a final inspection but has only minor corrections to complete before a ‘final’ final inspection set for Tuesday.  RAD FORM BASED CODE: Rachel had printed out a copy of the draft code.  Marsha announced that it was the subject of an ‘Open City Hall” online meeting on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. There will be links to the report and background information, and questions to consider and a way to receive comments. Joe has read the report—which is a bit dull and technical. He thought it didn’t address differences in topography—all the pictures show flat square lots, and isn’t sure that setbacks should be the only acceptable solution since designers can use and solve problems addressing the perception of space.  PSNC BUILDING: Rachel reported that it is about to be renovated by June with a big deck on the river side. She wants the ice house doors to be used somewhere. ASTON PARK MASTER PLAN: Rachel received a copy in response to the concerns about trees being removed from the park. (A copy will be attached.) NEIGHBORHOOD ADVISORY COMMITTEE CENTRAL AREA MEETING:  Joe reported that Byron attended the meeting on March 21^st. There were reports from the Transportation, Planning, Police and Fire Departments. City representatives were outnumbered by neighborhood representatives expressing their concerns. WECAN resident Byron Ballard began by noting some successes: WECAN has an engaged core of neighbors. She is happy about the coming needed affordable housing on Hilliard and Clingman and the community garden next to Asheville Transit which functions like a community center. We have great support from our CRO Lucas Lovelace, from Mountain Housing Opportunities and Laura Loftis at the Aston Park Tennis Center. Marsha Stickford is also a great resource and listens to a lot more crap than anyone should. She noted that WECAN currently has about 200 households and is looking at some 350 more in the next few years and a possible Hotel. Infrastructure sucks-- a sidewalk on Roberts Street is desperately needed with the increased tourist foot traffic to White Duck Taco. West Haywood is a winding curvy street and gets a lot of cut-through traffic and is very dangerous. There is bus and staff speeding at Asheville Transit. She observed that WECAN has effectively lost the gentrification wars. A recent house sold for almost a million dollars. Also between DOT and the City it has been several years that the fence at the top of the hill on Hilliard has been falling down. Storm water runoff continues to be a challenge at new developments and New Belgium Brewery across the river is bringing noise, smell and traffic as other events and construction blocking traffic at the river. We need help updating our fifteen year old WECAN Citizen’s Master Plan. The stairs that go to the Hillcrest pedestrian crossover bridge are deteriorating. We are losing green spaces and older trees to more development.

COMMERCIAL FILMING: Marsha explained that her email notice was just for general information that unusual things may be seen. BEAUCATCHER GREENWAY OPEN CITY HALL:  Marsha explained that at this time it was closed so that staff can prepare the comments in a report for City Council’s meeting on Tuesday. She noted that it has been in discussion for some 20 years. CARD FOR YURI: Rachel will get a card. Or people will do their own thing. WALLS AND ROADS: Rachel complained that historic walls were collapsing. She has questions about who owns them and who is responsible for maintaining them. Marsha explained that every city street has a right of way but their size varies. There is a question of whether the city should be involved after what happened to Floree’s wall on Rector Street. Marsha cited City Ordinance 16-3 that says property owners are responsible for sidewalk and gutters adjacent to their property. CURBING ILLEGAL DUMPING STRATEGIES: Rachel is still trying to get a clarification: is clearing campsite detritus is just a liability issue for the city. Marsha pointed out that she has heard that some people have chased out campers near the river and then thrown their stuff away. Debris on private property is the owner’s responsibility. Also that open areas should be maintained to less than three feet. The Japanese knotweed across from transit might violate that rule later in the season but it is complaint driven.  COMMUNITY GARDEN AMMENDMENT: Marsha gave Rachel a copy to sign that had five points: 1) Planting bed on west side of driveway will be weeded and planted with pollinators (see attached Bee City pollinator plant list) 2) Planting bed on east side of driveway will be planted with dwarf blueberry shrubs and groundcover. 3) Both beds will have a set-back of 2 feet from the driveway and road and not obstruct the sidewalk. 4) Holes for shrubs will be hand dug.  If they are outside existing beds, a Utility locate is required. 5) WECAN will maintain the expanded area to the standards specified in the original agreement.. WECAN COMMUNITY GARDEN: About ten people have expressed interest in planting this year. We decided to have more formal organizing and reporting meetings on the second and fourth Thursdays. Tuesdays will remain workdays. Planting should begin soon.  WECAN GARDEN CLUB: We worked on the Community Garden on two days in March in addition to the work day on March 19 spreading a truckload of mulch (donated by Pattiy Torno) on the paths of the wood fenced garden. Also Owens Bell Park Garden was mostly weeded on March 23. Thanks to Joe, Rebecca and Charlie. In April the sign garden is a priority.    PLAN ON A PAGE: A drop in work session is scheduled for April 19. Marsha will send Rachel a list of questions as a guide. GOALS/PLAN FOR 2016: Rachel will call a committee to meet about establishing a welcome wagon packet. ADOPT A HIGHWAY: The next clean up is scheduled for Saturday April 30 beginning at 10 am at Clingman and Hilliard. CLINGMAN CIRCLE PLANTING: Marsha reported that Gabi White from the Buncombe Fruit and Nut Club will be planting serviceberries there in the next week. Maintenance issues with RADBA do not include the kudzu up the hill towards Jefferson. Joe suggested garden Club can begin to address it later in the season when the kudzu is just beginning to grow.

Meeting adjourned at 8:00 pm Minutes submitted by Joe Fioccola

WECAN March 2016 Board Meeting Minutes • Draft

WECAN Board Meeting March 3, 2016

Board Members present: Jessie Nell Coleman, Joe Fioccola, AnnaBeth Hardcastle, Rebecca Lance, Rachel Larson and Suzanne Willis.. Members not present: Byron Ballard, Tom Gibson, Mike Kenton, Yuri Koslen,  Floree Lowery, Luke Perry,  JoAnn Skinner and  Pattiy Torno. Also present: Lee Lance, Charlie Lance, CRO Lucas Lovelace and Marsha Stickford. Rachel called the meeting to order at 6:27 pm

MINUTES: Minutes of February meeting were approved as distributed.

 TREASURER'S REPORT: AnnaBeth reported a balance of$645.72 and raised the issue of changing banks since the new fee for getting a paper statement is now $3.50. She volunteered to get an electronic statement. She will also take care of the newsletter reimbursement.

 APD/CRO UPDATE: Lucas reported that there were no car or home break-ins reported this month. There was a traffic accident mid-month that briefly knocked out power. Another report concerned someone who was picking up feral cats and having them spayed or neutered and then returning them but getting their traps stolen. Graffiti was reported at 87 Roberts St and on Riverside Drive and Pattiy called in suspicious characters which turned out to be police officers looking for graffiti taggers. Lucas also reported a sanctioned mural project on May 22 and 23 at Asheville Waste Paper and the building owner at 339 Old Lyman (behind Riverview Station) has been granted permission by the city graffiti team on a trial basis to establish a ‘free wall’ but only during the day and with permission.

 BLOCK JESSIES: AnnaBeth asked about what can be done to get construction contractors to remove materials from the roadway on Jefferson Drive.  The temporary inconvenience of staging is understood but here it is ongoing for extended periods. She will take a picture and email Marsha to determine if they are illegally blocking the road and then decide if a letter from WECAN is useful. Also at the turnaround on Jefferson a lot of silt and mud washed down from the two construction sites spilling over from the silt fences. Joe asked why all the trees in Aston Park are being cut down. Marsha suggested it might be that older trees may be diseased and can be a liability.  Suzanne was asked about a vacant lot with a creek and sewer lines next to her house on Rector Street that someone was asking about putting in a tiny house. Even though WLOS reported the city considering changing minimum lot sizes for smaller houses Marsha noted that currently prohibited are houses on wheels, less than 500 sf and those not meeting setback rules. She also noted that the planning department was very busy working on accessory dwelling unit rules and the comprehensive plan but questions emailed to her will get answers from planners. Suzanne also reported that Rector Street was being used by speeding cars as a cut through to Hilliard. She asked about Pace Cars in the Charlotte St area and speed bumps which may not qualify if there are less than 1,000 cars per day. Marsha suggested bringing the traffic engineer to look at the situation. She noted that Pace Car was a pilot program where neighbors took the lead and pledged to drive the speed limit. It starts with a speed study to gauge the extent of the problem and Pace Car may be rolled out to other parts of the city. Marsha also announced a new system for citizen alerts called Everbridge.  It is used mostly for water outages and police and fire but may eventually be used for road closures like the recent MSD Hilliard closure. Rebecca reported a problem of not being able to see the traffic light and only the crosswalk signal at Hilliard and Clingman and that one of the pedestrian crossings was not working.(SW corner) Marsha suggested a neighborhood walk through with city department heads may be in order. It was suggested to wait for New Belgium to open and then see how traffic will be affected. Marsha reported that NBB was working with Google Maps to direct drivers to use Haywood Road. Rebecca asked about trash and brush on city property on Jefferson. Marsha noted that Sanitation does not pick up construction debris which should be removed by the property owner.  Rebecca will send her a picture. Rebecca also reported a problem with water pressure. She was encouraged to contact the water department to check the pressure to the meter.

RAD FORM BASED CODE: Marsha announced there will be a meeting on April 7 at 6:30 pm (Place TBA).(Which conflicts with the next WECAN Board meeting).  Rachel will ask Sasha to come to the May 5 WECAN Board meeting.

PLACE-MAKING IN RADTIP: Rachel reported that the meeting was looking for placement ideas and then artists would create installations. She is looking for a place to re-use the Ice House Doors. Joe was not impressed with the meeting. It seemed like obligatory public input –like Livingston Street: required but not really wanting ideas.

 EQUITABLE DEVELOPMENT: Rachel advised that the report was on line but no one had read it.

WHITEWATER PARK/PERMANENT SOUND STAGE: Rachel asked about a rumor she heard that New Belgium was funding a permanent stage for River Music. Marsha assured us that no plans have been received and that Stephanie Monson Dahl could provide more information at the salons. 

NEIGHBORHOOD ADVISRY COMMITTEE: CENTRAL AREA MEETING: Joe announced that the central meeting was set for Monday March 21 from 7-9 pm at Public Works. WECAN should send a delegation and report on what we have done, what we need, what problems we may face, etc.

MEEHAN MAINTENANCE FACILITY: Joe reported that Planning and Zoning had approved the rezoning request for the Meehan Maintenance facility to Central Business District with 40 affordable units,(maximum of 80% of median income), maximum rent at 30% of income.  Next it goes to City Council for approval and Request for Proposals later this month.

I-26:  Joe heard recently that some funding was approved for I-40E to I-26E at malfunction Junction. Marsha explained that the construction company was not paying workers and so they stopped working and a new crew was being found.  Rachel was told that a six lane alternative for the I-240 section through West Asheville would have little impact compared with 8 lanes.

WECAN COMMUNITY GARDEN: Marsha met with city officials and they said rain barrels at the transit building would not be allowed due to liability issues having to cross the driveway. Regarding planting along the driveway it would (for the same reason) be allowed on the east side but not the west side. However non-edible perennial pollinators may be allowed where the transit sign is. Marsha suggested contacting Asheville GreenWorks and Bee City for help with pollinators. 

WECAN GARDEN CLUB:  We received a request to partner and plant serviceberries in the Clingman Circle.  Marsha noted there is a need to develop a process for planting on rights of way with approved plant lists and appropriateness and it is moving ahead but slowly. The area between Grey Eagle and the Circle is currently maintained by the RADBA and the city has not budgeted for maintaining medians except for Broadway. The club is still working on a new list. Rebecca heard from Meg about Bee Houses for pollinators but non-honey bees. AnnaBeth asked if the city could ban stores from selling neonicitinoid pesticides to protect bees. She will call Phyllis Stiles for more information.

PLAN ON A PAGE: Marsha announced that the due date has moved to July 1. She will do a blog post and organize a clinic to answer questions.

GOALS/PLAN FOR 2016: Rachel wants to brainstorm outside the monthly WECAN meetings about establishing a welcome wagon packet of info with coupons for local businesses and how to be involved with WECAN with Block Jessies.

Meeting adjourned at 8:17 pm Minutes submitted by Joe Fioccola

WECAN February 2016 Board Meeting Minutes • Draft

WECAN Board Meeting February 4, 2016

Board Members present: Byron Ballard, Joe Fioccola, Rachel Larson and Luke Perry. Members not present: Jessie Nell Coleman, Tom Gibson, AnnaBeth Hardcastle, Mike Kenton, Yuri Koslen, , Rebecca Lance, Floree Lowery, JoAnn Skinner, Pattiy Torno and Suzanne Willis. Also present: Rafael Rettig,CRO Lucas Lovelace, Nikki Reid and Alan Glines. Rachel called the meeting to order at 6:35 pm 

MINUTES: Byron moved and Rachel seconded a motion to approve the minutes as distributed. Motion passed. TREASURER'S REPORT: No report.  APD/CRO UPDATE: Lucas reported that on 1/18 unsecured vehicles on Roberts St and Trade St were broken into. Tools and an i-pad were taken. Grafitti is an ongoing problem. He encouraged anyone who sees anyone with spray paint to call it in. Rebecca had reported an open and unlocked gate at Melk Drive. Lukas closed the gate but it isn’t usually locked. He noted trash from homeless camps on the interstate side of the fence. He noticed that streetlights were being installed at the dead end of Park Avenue North behind Grey Eagle. Rafael reported his beloved car was destroyed by a drunk driver in December and no one was hurt. Rebecca also reported dumping on Jefferson along side of the Community Garden. Lukas said he would look into the issue of removing trash left on city property. The semi-cab and trailer parked on West Haywood is on private property and can park there unless the property owner objects. BLOCK JESSIES: Byron reported seeing surveyors on Green Street and they forebode development. Rebecca reported that the kids had some fun on the recent snow days. Suzanne reported food being left out at Owens Bell Park. Luke celebrated having the drywall up and reclaimed wood back in his place and hopes to be living there by our next board meeting.

PLANS FOR MEEHAN PARKS MAINTENANCE FACILITY ON HILLIARD AVE: Alan described the zoning of city property between the tennis courts and Merritt St. There are two different zones applied: CB1 and RM8. The city council has set affordable housing as a priority at their recent retreat. The two step process for this facility is to first rezone the CB1 to CBD. (Central Business District) The southern portion doesn’t need rezoning since RM8 allows park and greenway uses. March 2 the rezoning request goes to Planning and Zoning. Then to City Council for approval and then RFP’s (Request for Proposals) will be issued with specific criteria to meet the city’s goals: all units affordable,(maximum of 80% of median income), maximum rent at 30% of income and at least 40 units. It is expected to be competitive and financial incentives will be offered using the value of the property. Alan also noted that the 2009 Downtown Master Plan was being reviewed to revise thresholds of projects for review since only very large projects like hotels come before council now. Rachel asked about other rezoning requests that may come up in WECAN. Alan assured us that the city is not anxious to lose RM8 property to business uses. The goal is to hold the line on business encroachment since the city has a shortage of housing and not of commercial property. There was a conversation on the limitations of the city regarding zoning, density, land use, setbacks and buffers. EQUITABLE DEVELOPMENT: Rachel advised that the city’s report was now available on line. PLACE-MAKING IN RADTIP: Rachel reported the city was looking for input at two public metings on Feb 13 from 11-12:30 at the Grant Center and on Feb 16 at Odyssey Ceramic Arts from 5:30-7. Also the survey is available on line until Feb 26 about creating installations, stops, visuals, etc along the proposed new greenways.  CAN DUES REQUEST: Joe noted that a request has been received but considering our finances we should not support them financially. FBRMPOCAC: Rachel received information about the life expectancy of the Jeff Bowen/ Smoky Park Bridges and received some technical information in response that doesn’t really say how long each will extend its use.

STORMWATER PROBLEMS: Rafael reported major erosion at the middle school fields and irresponsible and possibly illegal actions from the construction. WECAN GARDEN CLUB: Still working on a new list; May help get the Queen Carson Garden ready for spring planting. WECAN COMMUNITY GARDEN: Called a meeting on the 21st at 6:30 p.m. at Sly Grog and are working on a plan for this season.

Meeting adjourned at 8:30 pm Minutes submitted by Joe Fioccola

WECAN January 2016 Board Meeting Minutes • Draft

WECAN Board Meeting January 7, 2016

Board Members present: Byron Ballard, Joe Fioccola, Rebecca Lance, Rachel Larson and Pattiy Torno. Members not present: Jessie Nell Coleman, Tom Gibson, AnnaBeth Hardcastle, Mike Kenton, Yuri Koslen, JoAnn Skinner and Suzanne Willis. Also present: CRO Lucas Lovelace, Charlie District Commander Lt Gary Gudac, and Marsha Stickford.

Rachel called the meeting to order at 6:33 pm 

MINUTES: There was one correction to the draft minutes:' WECAN Board/General Membership Meeting'. Otherwise they were approved as submitted.

TREASURER'S REPORT: No report Joe noted one reimbursement due for the printing/mailing of the newsletter.

APD/CRO UPDATE: Lucas reported that he has seen an increase of homeless campsites and tents--some by the river. They are mostly vacant during the day but the PATH Team has been sent and they have been given notice. However , some take advantage of the' seven day notice to move' in order to find a new location and begin the process again. Pattiy reported seeing some tents on the west bank of the river across from 12Bones. Joe noted that when the greenway is completed the traffic may deter camping there in the future. Lucas reported that on December 17 three unlocked vehicles were broken into on Park, Girdwood and Jefferson. He was pleased to note that there were no problems with package deliveries being stolen. Pattiy commended Sgt Evan Coward for his efforts on tv about NEXTDOOR.com. Marsha will forward a brochure from PIO Christina Hollingse. Joe brought up a thread on NEXTDOOR about an intoxicated person on Clingman and Hilliard and what was and could have been done for them. The problem is that people have a right to refuse medical treatment, shelter or housing. Marsha referred to the Homeless Coordinator Christiana Tugman who asks: what would be helpful? One answer is housing. We can explore Face Book Page What the alternatives are. If people refuse housing are they homeless or exercising free choice? Unfortunately they are also leaving trash behind. Pattiy asked for a memorandum of understanding between WECAN and the City to clean up on public rights of way-- which currently is not legal. Marsha will float the idea to Christiana about areas not covered by Parks or Sanitation.

BLOCK JESSIES: Joe found some unusual chalk marks on the sidewalks. They may be placed by night runners or pub runners. Charlie Lance announced the best holiday lighting was on Rector Street. Rachel found out the goopy yellow stuff in the stream at Owens Bell Park was a naturally occurring effluent of fungus or iron bacteria from an underground stream. Hattie Smith's house on Knoxville Place is under contract. Rachel has a new neighbor on Park Square.  Luke fell off his roof (but he is ok) and also had his parked van totaled on Hilliard(which is not.) The issue of Parking on West Haywood near Jefferson was discussed. Parked cars make it hard to see westbound traffic in the curve when exiting Jefferson. Byron will talk to neighbors.

ELECTION OF OFFICERS: Joe nominated the current officers to continue their roles: Chair: Rachel, Vice Chair: Byron, Treasurer: AnnaBeth and Secretary: Joe. Pattiy seconded and motion passed.

AT-LARGE MEMBERS: After discussion of potential nominees Joe nominated Luke and Floree to continue as At-Large Board Members. Byron seconded and the motion passed.

NEW BELGIUM BREWERY: Is not for sale. The confusion is that when an offer is made they have to respond and it appeared that they were selling.

ASHEVILLE IN MOTION: Joe attended the last input session on Dec 17 at the Civic Center.  They have done a lot of work analyzing road types for the four types of transportation: Bus, Bike, Pedestrian and Vehicle. They were looking for preferences by sticky dots only. Marsha said they will be reporting back in the spring.

I-26 CONNECTOR: The public hearing was on Nov 16 and comments would be received until Dec 16. WECAN submitted a page of comments collected by Luke W. Perry on email.
FBRMPOCAC: Rachel is a member of the French Broad River Municipal Planning Organization Citizens Advisory Council. Joe requested information about the life expectancy of the Smoky Park Bridges (One span begun in 1948 and the other in 1968) since there was no mention of this in the I-26 Environmental Impact Statement when one goal is to extend its use.

GENTRIFICATION: Rachel and Byron met with a student of Warren Wilson College for a report on the effects of gentrification in the River Arts District and Southside.  Marsha asked for the student's info because the city was talking about Equitable Development. Is it a Governmental value? Is there a problem when federal funds are involved regarding community benefits agreements?

RAD FORM BASED CODE: Marsha noted that there would be some feedback soon.

PLACE-MAKING IN RADTIP: Rachel noted that artists were being asked to be involved in creating installations, stops, visuals, etc along the proposed new greenways.   

STORMWATER PROBLEMS: Pattiy reported debris and mud washed into the Clingman Roundabout  and from Asheville Middle School down Lyman Extension across the railroad tracks and into her yard. She has a meeting scheduled next week to address the problem.

WECAN GARDEN CLUB: working on a new list; Trimming the hedges at the sign garden, leaf mulch debris from Roberts Street.

WECAN COMMUNITY GARDEN: Calling a meeting of interested gardeners on the 19th or 21st at 6:30 p.m. at MHO. Byron will use Face Book to determine preferred date.

PLAN ON A PAGE: This is a list of questions for neighborhoods to fill out to guide the planning department when considering developer requests in a neighborhood. It is not a detailed plan such as the WECAN 2010 Plan or the WECAN Citizens Master Plan, but it is to supplement the Comprehensive Plan which the city will begin soon.   

VACANT LOT ANALYSIS: Rachel has been looking at vacant buildable lots in WECAN and has found about 30.

KUDZU HILL ON CLINGMAN: Rachel asked about clearing the kudzu from the trees on the hill west of All Souls Pizza now that the kudzu has died back. Pattiy thinks it is a fool’s errand since it grows back so rapidly. DOT will not remove it and might only object if the trees fall into the roadway.

GOALS/PLAN for 2016: Community Garden and Face to Face contacts with Block Jessies

Meeting adjourned at 8:40 pm 

Minutes submitted by Joe Fioccola

WECAN December 2015 Board Meeting Minutes • Draft

WECAN Board Meeting December 3, 2015 at 64 Clingman Ave

Board Members Present were: Byron Ballard, Jessie Nell Coleman, Joe Fioccola, Rebecca Lance, Rachel Larson and Luke W. Perry. Board Members not present were  Tom Gibson, AnnaBeth Hardcastle, Mike Kenton, Yuri Koslen, Floree Lowery,  Rafael Rettig, Marc Schieferstein, JoAnn Skinner, Suzanne Willis and Pattiy Torno. Also present were: CRO Lucas Lovelace and Marsha Stickford.. Chair Rachel called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. MINUTES: Byron moved and Luke seconded a motion to approve the draft minutes from November 5 as distributed. The motion passed. There was some activity on the treasurer's report. Reimbursement has been submitted for the postage and printing of the WECAN News. APD/CRO UPDATE: Rachel reported an I-pad stolen from an unlocked vehicle which was not reported to the police. Lucas said that it should be reported because items like that are sometimes recovered and can be returned. He noted that there have been 25 hours of extra patrols and 15 hours on Jefferson Drive. He reported that a motorcycle was taken from Hunter Volvo and has not been recovered and that 2 homeless camps along the river had been moved. He also explained that 'Code Purple" was a situation when the temperature is below 32 degrees a shelter will accept someone even if they have been drinking or barred for other reasons if an officer brings them. The parking problem at the end of Clingman Place has been resolved. The River Arts District is being hit with a lot of graffiti and in response special operations are in place. He had no further information to share about the murder investigation. He will forward information about car break ins and holiday packages and advises to keep reporting because it helps. BLOCK JESSIE UPDATES: Byron remembered the old tradition of welcoming new neighbors with a 'Welcome Wagon" small gift basket with food, coupons, important phone numbers, etc. With the turnover in WECAN we often don't get to meet new neighbors when they move in. She wants to restart the tradition and will propose something next month. Also that the designated Block Jessies should update the mail or email list throughout the year but especially in September for the annual newsletter. She also reported that the mother of past WECAN Chair Pattiy Torno had passed away. Byron will get a card to send from WECAN. Finally, Byron has been thinking about past WECAN Chair Geraldine. She has not been very active  lately in WECAN but was an important part of the community and needs to be acknowledged in these difficult times for her family. Byron volunteered to send am appropriate and helpful card. Marsha announced that final street paving on Craven Street to raise it to grade will take place this weekend. Friday, Saturday and Sunday the Smith Bridge will be closed. Joe remarked that it is such a waste to put in curbing just to be torn out when the second bridge goes in with the RADTIP improvements. Marsha explained that federal funds have to be spent as plans are submitted and it would be too expensive to resubmit revised plans. He admitted that they are getting better about the streets, water and utilities working together when there are street projects., but they are obviously not there yet.  Luke announced that the pad for the bus stop at Haywood Road and Craven Street would be poured soon and in January  the Asheville Design Center would be seeking public input online at their website. This may be a model for other bus stops in the city. He also has been in contact with Mr. Poliak who owns the house next to his and several other properties and is not wanting to sell at this time. 2015 ACTIVITY REPORT: Joe reported the activity for 2015 as follows: Jan: Luke and Floree elected for 1 year renewable term as At-Large Members. Feb first meeting of Community Garden Group. Mar: Community Garden Agreement signed, Festival of Neighborhoods Workshops Asheville in Motion and Garden Club Wednesdays. Apr: Spring Fling/Community Garden installation and City Wide Cleanup May: Settled Community Garden Funding Issue. Jun: General Membership Meeting, RAD Form Based Code, Ice Cream Social, Community Garden Assessment, Equitable Development Forum. Aug: Corn Feast, Watch for Me Campaign, Patton Place Apartments announced, National Night Out, Sep: Livingston complete Streets; Oct: Mayor's State of the City, Halloween Social, Nov: Neighborhood Plans Workshop, I-26 Connector hearing. Whew! I-26 CONNECTOR PUBLIC HEARING: NCDOT is accepting comments on the I-26 Connector until December 16. Luke pointed out there are aspects that directly affect WECAN but there is almost too much information in the 9 potential plans. Some have a direct connection to Hillcrest and Montford, some have a greenway starting on Trade Street, several will have an affect on highway noise that cannot be corrected by sound barrier walls. Some people are also concerned with highway air pollution and its affect on heart disease. Some people do not believe the projected traffic counts and others are concerned with other neighborhoods such as Burton Street which will be sacrificed to eight unnecessary lanes through West Asheville. Citizens are encouraged to comment. It was suggested that a loose alliance be formed with Burton Street, Montford and EWANA to comment together. Luke will start a document. The full Draft Environmental Impact Statement, video with animations, detailed design maps, and other info are available on line at http://www.ncdot.gov/projects/i26connector/    CLINGMAN AVENUE EXTENSION ONE WAY: Rachel reported that this will not happen. Regarding a needed sidewalk on Roberts Street, it was noted that a recently elected City Council member lives there and perhaps all new city councilors should be invited to a future WECAN meeting. Byron volunteered to invite the councilors.  NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING WORKSHOP: Joe gave a rock star presentation.. There have been requests to see the power point he used. Marsha noted that all the presentations were recorded and will be placed on the city website. The new city Comprehensive plan will begin in January with the choice of the consultant. Then in the next 18 months there will be events to get input.  In the mean time WECAN can continue efforts to update the Citizens Master Plan (2001) or work on a small area plan (aka plan on a page) The comprehensive plan is for 'big picture' planning and the plan on a page is for Planning and Zoning to have guidance for development. RAD FORM BASED CODE: The draft report is available on the City’s Projects Page. Comments and feedback are still being accepted. The collected feedback will go to Planning and Zoning and then to council for approval.  Luke would like for future budgets to include compensation for getting feedback. NEWSLETTER: It went out on schedule and so far no returns. Just some bad email addresses and a few 'unsubscribe' requests from residents who moved have been received. ADOPT A HIGHWAY The quarterly litter pickup will be scheduled for some time in January. GARDEN CLUB WEDNESDAYS: The 'group' cleaned out the community garden and due to rain and cold not much else this month. COMMUNITY GARDEN: Joe submitted the annual report (see attached.) VACANT LOT ANALYSIS: Rachel received a request for a place to locate a storage building and found out there are a lot of vacant lots in WECAN. Jessie has also received requests for properties on Knoxville Place. GENTRIFICATION: Rachel and Byron have been contacted by a student at Warren Wilson College doing a report on gentrification. They will meet at Clingman Café on Sunday December 6 at 1 pm. others with opinions on gentrification are welcome. NOMINATIONS: Joe nominated Byron, Yuri, Rachel and Pattiy to serve a second three year term. Byron seconded and motion passed. Welcome back. ISSUES and GOALS for 2016: Some things mentioned included: Welcome Wagon, Social Events, More Communication, Retaining Luke, Reactivating Block Jessies with a welcome wagon, Continuing Community Garden, compiling info from Simplicity into a single place with phone and email info. The meeting adjourned at 8:35 p.m. DRAFT Minutes submitted by Joe Fioccola.