WECAN May 2015 Board Meeting Minutes • Draft

WECAN Board Meeting May 7, 2015 at 64 Clingman Ave.

Board Members Present were:  Byron Ballard, Jessie Nell Coleman, Joe Fioccola, AnnaBeth Hardcastle, Rebecca Lance and Rachel Larson. Board Members not present were  Tom Gibson, Mike Kenton, Yuri Koslen, , Floree Lowery, Luke W. Perry, Rafael Rettig, Marc Schieferstein, JoAnn Skinner, Pattiy Torno and Suzanne Willis.  Also present was: CRO Sean Davis, Sgt Evan Coward and Marsha Stickford. 

Chair Rachel called the meeting to order at 6:32 p.m. 

NEIGHBOR/BLOCK JESSIE UPDATES: Meeko is a cat missing from Keely and Blake's. Joe relayed that Eric Bradford suggested nominating the huge maple at the north end of the Community Garden  area as a Treasure Tree.(It comes with no protection just recognition and honorific.) AnnaBeth noted that grading had begun on Jefferson. They were trying but unable to contact the Pepsi Billboard folks about landfill there. Joe noted that Bill and Marianna Bailey--who helped WECAN with visioning in the late 1990's were being honored as Asheville Living Treasures later this month. Also that Jessie Coleman was among the first so honored.  

Rachel reported that Curbie had a hydraulic accident that sprayed oil on a house on Park Square.

MINUTES: The draft minutes were approved as distributed. TREASURERS REPORT: AnnaBeth reported no activity. Current balance is $624.22.

APD/CRO UPDATE: Sean reported that graffiti was diminishing. There had been an arrest of a violator at Riverlink. Prostitution--especially near S. French Broad Ave, was getting a green light and response from Vice and outreach was showing some success in getting help to sex workers. A Police Chief Candidates Meet and Greet will be held at UNCA's Wilma Sherrill Center on Monday May 18  from 5-6 and At 6 p.m., following the meet and greet, candidates will make presentations on a pre-determined subject.  Community members will have the opportunity to offer feedback on candidates through comment cards.  The feedback will be considered in the selection process. Candidates will be announced by May 13. Joe reported two chain link fences broken. One on Roberts St side of the Dave Steel property and one that Rachel noted at the north end of the Melk Property. Marsha contacted DOT about that one and they claimed it was on private property. Marsha suggested keeping a count of the trash cleaned up and the police responses to campers in preparation of a report to the N.C.D.O.T. She also announced there is a new Homeless Coordinator: Christina Tugman.  There was loud noise reported and controlled at the recent River Music concert. Rachel asked how to find out what's happening around the area. A reminder that there is a noise ordinance in effect 24 hours with special emphasis from 11 pm- 7 am.

SPRING FLING: Saturday April 11 was a beautiful and windy day. A handful of people came by and on one hour helped carry soil from the driveway to fill the 4 new raised beds. Joe got the soil donated by Green Works after helping them plant the Apple Orchard at Hillcrest.

GARDEN CLUB WEDNESDAYS: Joe reported that the Garden Club had mowed the unclaimed grass strip at the new stop sign and trimmed and weeded the sign garden and the hedges across the street.

CITY-WIDE CLEAN-UP APRIL 18, FROM 10-2 PM: Joe reported that 4 volunteers spent 7 hours helping to collect a total of 18 bags of trash and recycling from 2 campsites. ( Melk area and across from the sign garden.) and clear storm drains between Clingman Avenue and Park Avenue.

ADOPT A HIGHWAY :The quarterly litter pick up for Clingman Avenue was set for this Saturday May 9 at 8:00 AM. Meet at the sign garden. Joe will bring vests and bags. (Other events scheduled around this Saturday include an all day bicycle criterion at South Slope, River Arts District Studio Stroll and New Belgium concrete pour at 3 am.)

COMMUNITY GARDEN: Joe reported that waivers were signed, sections were fenced, raised beds were planted, notes of meetings were kept. Regular meetings have been happening on Tuesdays at 6 pm at the Garden. Marsha asked to keep good records and at the right time (Check back in September) a report or article could go onto the city blog.  

COMMUNITY GARDEN FUNDING: AnnaBeth noted that some expenses were made to get things going and questioned whether WECAN treasury funds should be used to reimburse those expenses. She noted that some people have made donations in kind and did not expect to be reimbursed. She noted that the treasury funds has not been allocated and asked if some could be earmarked for the Community Garden. So far expenses were for the wire fence $125 and paint $70? Since WECAN signed the agreement for the community garden it is an authorized project. Therefore if people want to donate that is great but if they do not want to give money how can we keep it inclusive? Joe's concern was that the treasury should not be a blank check for anyone to spend in the garden. From now on expenses should be discussed and proposed for the whole board before they are made. Byron suggested the garden committee should create a budget as good non-profit procedure. Some in kind contributions received so far include wood, compost and soil from Lance, flowers and spinners from Byron, a composter from Liz Ridley, tomato plants from Pete Bassett, pallets from Hunter Volvo, wire fencing from Patrick Pearson and topsoil from Green Works. AnnaBeth suggested a sign in recognition of the work put in by Byron and Joe. She moved that the garden committee can bring budget proposals to the board  for consideration. The motion passed. She also moved that the board approve the reimbursement of some portion of funds submitted by invoice for expenses made to date. That motion passed. Next AnnaBeth suggested there be a name for the garden to honor those who have given so much time and effort. Byron moved to name it the Queen Carson Community Peace Garden after the first female principal in Asheville of the Park Avenue School which was the site where Transit is now located. The motion passed. Next came the question of signage. Marsha will have more information about neighborhood signage at the June meeting. This topic was tabled until then.

GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING: The required second general membership meeting was set for Thursday June 4 at 6:30 p.m. at the Community Garden. (coincident with the Board Meeting). 

NO MEETING IN JULY: It was moved to cancel the July 2 regular board meeting. The motion passed. 

BLOCK JESSIES: This was the system for communicating with all parts of the neighborhood but there are gaps in coverage. 

TRAFFIC CALMING: Marsha outlined the process in place for speed humps: first apply, then sign petition of 60% then transportation does a study to determine the number of cars and speeds over that posted. There is also consideration by the fire department and budget. Last year there were 26 requests  Several did not meet criteria but two were funded this year. Marsha will forward a copy of the policy to Rachel to address issues of increased traffic, speeding, crosswalks, mirrors, traffic studies and sidewalks needed linkages. She also encouraged reporting of buses seen speeding. It takes bus number, time of day and direction for transit to investigate. Marsha will get the number for reporting. Liz at Park Square thanked for the 'no-outlet' sign. AnnaBeth wants a sidewalk on Roberts Street prior to a pedestrian fatality. Marsha suggested consideration of a letter to Cathy Ball. 

MASTER PLANNING: Marsha noted that Alan Glines had spoken at a recent CAN meeting about neighborhood plans. This spiked interest and a Request For Proposals  was being put out for a new comprehensive plan(like the 2025 plan) to ultimately update the UDO.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING: Marsha reported that as a follow-up to the Gentrification Study there would be a 2 day workshop in June on Equitable Development. A WECAN representative was needed. She noted that planning staff had been reduced more than half and were really trying to get values driven development.

NEW BELGIUM BREWING: Marsh announced that Craven Street Paving was set to begin this week fro Waynesville Ave north to Hazel Mill Rd and then closing from Waynesville Ave south to Haywood Road.

CLINGMAN FOREST GREENWAY: Marsha will have a status update for the June 4 meeting.

SHORT TERM RENTALS: Marsha reported that City Council was set to consider this at their May 12 meeting.  They may change the Home-stay rules allowing smaller houses and getting clear registrations for home-stays. Short Term Rentals are now legal in the central business district but only 30 day rentals allowed elsewhere in the city. 

The meeting adjourned at 7:59 p.m.

DRAFT Minutes submitted by Joe Fioccola.

   

    May 9          8 am Adopt A Highway Clean up

                        River Arts District Studio Stroll

    May 10        Mothers Day

    May 12        Community Garden Group 6 pm

    May 13        Garden Club     2 pm

    May 18        Police Chief Candidates Meet and Greet UNCA 5-7

    May 19        Community Garden Group 6 pm

    May 20        Garden Club     2 pm

    May 26        Community Garden Group 6 pm

    May 27        Garden Club     2 pm

    June 2          Community Garden Group 6 pm  

    June 3          Garden Club     2 pm

    June 4          Next WECAN BOARD Meeting and General Membership meeting 6:30 pm at the Jefferson Community Garden

WECAN April 2015 Board Meeting • Draft

WECAN Board Meeting April 2, 2015 at 64 Clingman Ave.

Board Members Present were:  Byron Ballard, Jessie Nell Coleman, Joe Fioccola, AnnaBeth Hardcastle and Rachel Larson. Board Members not present were  Tom Gibson, Mike Kenton, Yuri Koslen, Rebecca Lance, Floree Lowery, Luke W. Perry, Rafael Rettig, Marc Schieferstein, JoAnn Skinner, Pattiy Torno and Suzanne Willis.  Also present was: Dr. Jim Biddle, CRO Lucas Lovelace and Marsha Stickford. 

Chair Rachel called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. 

NEIGHBOR/BLOCK JESSIE UPDATES: AnnaBeth reported Lance is planning a large yard sale on April 10 and 11 others are invited to join in. Byron noted some fun poultry guests. Rachel has some leftover fencing. Jim Biddle announced that his wife was expecting a baby in October. He is planning to build a house at the end of Park Avenue and a clinic/store/yoga studio on the eastern half of the lot on the north east corner of Hilliard and Clingman set back 10 feet with a courtyard. Rachel saw some surveying activity on Girdwood and noted some short term rental activity near Park Square. She asked about the crumbling wall removed from Floree's place and Marsha said it was being taken care of.  

MINUTES: The draft minutes were approved as distributed. TREASURERS REPORT: AnnaBeth reported no activity. Current balance is $624.22.

APD/CRO UPDATE: Lucas reported that there was a break-in at 11 Club Street in the last two weeks and a couple of car break ins and one stolen vehicle from Roberts Street (which was unlocked with the keys inside) It was later recovered at Livingston. He also reported someone fatally fell off the Riverlink Bridge onto Riverside Drive last weekend. Graffiti is increasing. Some was noted at the Park Avenue stop sign and sidewalk as well as the Boy Scout building. Marsha encouraged anyone to report graffiti when you see it and use the Asheville Ap. Rachel reported seeing a graffiti covered box truck riding around and selling spray paint. Lucas also noted that with the weather improvement there is increasing transient activity. He moved some from behind 14 Riverside Drive.

COMMUNITY GARDEN: With great ceremony the Agreement for a Pilot Community Garden was signed by President Rachel after two years of negotiations. Joe reviewed the main points: the CITY will not provide any funding; will approve plans for the year; will provide some parking at Transit and remove trash.  WECAN will acquire and provide planting materials, regular maintenance, conduct orientation regarding safety and guidelines and assure that anyone working on site must sign a waiver of liability. Interested parties have met three times they included Byron, Joe, Rebecca, Lyn Player and Brian Newport and Tina from Park Ave. AnnaBeth and Lance also committed to take care of one of the ten-by-ten plots. The proposal was for 8-10 ten by ten plots. So far we are planning half to be a group effort (such as the childrens garden, perennial garden, compost area and annual garden) and half will be individual efforts. They will need to be fenced to keep out groundhogs. Joe has priced some fencing  at about $125 to cover about half the plots. Byron noted that Rose, the new Director of Transit was excited about being involved in the community. Lyn is interested in using the stored granite curbstones to build steps to the site. Rachel suggested considering using Labor Ready, Lyn said Evergreen has volunteer days that can help dig out or construct a raised bed. Marsha recommended Eric Bradford as a resource and Pattiy had used Warren Wilson students to install stones at Owens Bell Park. Joe noted promised donations of trees and vegetables ready to go in. Next meeting will be Sunday April 12 at 3 pm.

SPRING FLING: Saturday April 11, the date set at the last meeting, is fast approaching. The time was set for 2-5 pm.  AnnaBeth is looking forward to connecting with new neighbors. Transit wanted a Community Open House day that could have been combined but their best day is on a Sunday. We will schedule one later. AnnaBeth will create a flyer. She will post on Jefferson and Park. Rachel will take on Park Square, Club and West Haywood. She said that email works best for the Lofts. Byron observed that we don't have a good connection on Clingman Ave. AnnaBeth noted that personal invitation was very effective for getting her involved. Activities for the event could include a fire pit, table for snacky pot luck, hors d'oeuvres, new garden tours, ceremonial new planting, time capsule, children's games (Rebecca and Lyn?), sangria, kite flying, egg toss, three legged races, spring bonnet show, dog show. (See flyer for details.) 

GARDEN CLUB WEDNESDAYS: Scott at MHO came to Joe and asked for suggestions of plants for the rhomboid shape between the sidewalk and Clingman Avenue. He wanted to buy the plants and have a community event with the planting. Marsha noted that there is a list of plants approved by the city. She will forward the list to Joe.  Pattiy is working on a two year plan for the area between Grey Eagle and the traffic Circle. They are spraying the rocks in the roundabout and may have planted the daffodils. Byron will follow up on the spraying. Pattiy is sponsoring part of the mowing and maintenance.  Garden Club Wednesdays have met twice. The workdays so far have cleared the weeds and leaves from the Sign garden and from Owens Bell Park. Joe announced that Garden Club Wednesdays would continue on April 8, 15 and 29 at 2 p.m. Locations will be community garden, then hedges at Clingman and Hilliard and then along Hilliard. Jefferson looks ok.

CITY-WIDE CLEAN-UP APRIL 18, FROM 10-2 PM: We coordinate volunteers to pick up trash in public areas and clear storm drains. Joe will be the coordinator and pick up the supplies. Marsha noted at 1 pm at Azalea Park ribbon cutting and ABYSSA was releasing 1000 rubber duckies as a fund raiser. WECAN volunteers will meet at the new Community Garden at the corner of Jefferson and West Haywood at 10 AM. Green Works advises to wear long pants and long sleeve shirts and closed toe shoes and gloves. Focus is on public areas and may extend to DOT, Naegle or Hunter. We may ask for donations from them. 

MASTER PLANNING: Marsha noted Stephanie has created a new Riverfront Office to coordinate all the teams and plans and grants and initiatives. We have not identified our number one priority need.  It may be time to invite her to a meeting to remind her of our area.  No new planning director has been hired yet. Rachel has been going to Riverfront redevelopment meetings, some of which have been very interesting.

The meeting adjourned at 7:40 p.m.

DRAFT Minutes submitted by Joe Fioccola.

    April 8           Garden Club Wednesdays 2 pm Community Garden    

    April 10-11   Jefferson Drive Yard Sale (see flyer)

    April 11        WECAN Spring Fling 2-5 pm

    April 15        Garden Club Wednesdays 2 pm Clingman and Hilliard

    April 18        City Wide Clean Up 10-2 pm

    April 29        Garden Club Wednesdays 2 pm Hilliard

    May 7           Next WECAN BOARD Meeting 6:30 pm at 64 Clingman Avenue

    May 10         Mothers Day

WECAN March 2015 Board Meeting Minutes • Draft

WECAN Board Meeting March 5, 2015 at 64 Clingman Ave.

Board Members Present were:  Jessie Nell Coleman, Joe Fioccola, AnnaBeth Hardcastle, Rebecca Lance, Rachel Larson and Floree Lowery. Board Members not present were Byron Ballard, Tom Gibson, Mike Kenton, Yuri Koslen, Luke W. Perry, Rafael Rettig, Marc Schieferstein, JoAnn Skinner, Pattiy Torno and Suzanne Willis.  Also present was: CRO Sean Davis. 

Chair Rachel called the meeting to order at 6:33 p.m. 

NEIGHBOR/BLOCK JESSIE UPDATES: AnnaBeth reported that the dog barking problem had been elegantly solved by frosting the lower portion of the window. New Jefferson neighbors include Blair, Keeley and 2 year old Jane. Also due to recent property exchanges she was able to re-finance her home (again.) Rebecca noted that the storm water pipe moving was complete. Joe reported that the variance requested by Luke for the house on Yarrow Place was approved and now Luke is applying for permits. AnnaBeth corrected the previous minutes with Jeff Carnivale off the board. Joe observed that the board can fill a vacancy until the next General Membership Meeting. Bring suggestions to the next meeting. Outreach was suggested to the new neighbors on Park Avenue and on Jefferson.

MINUTES: The draft minutes were approved as distributed. TREASURERS REPORT: AnnaBeth reported no activity.

APD/CRO UPDATE: Sean reported that the last 30 New Belgium Tanks would be arriving March 16-19 taking a route from I-40 to I240 to Amboy Road to Lyman Street to Roberts St across the Riverlink Bridge to Craven Street. Joe added that the vessels are 55 feet tall and they hope to move 10 per day. Sean also noted that regarding prostitution the police were targeting hookers as well as johns and especially looking at repeat offenders. He also reported that there have been several vehicle break ins in the area of lower Clingman and Roberts St. One suspect who was caught said they tried vehicles all along Clingman but on the upper end they were found to be locked. He also reported that there seems to be no recent activity only debris at campsites near Melk Drive.  Rachel noted seeing a red tent near the Riverlink property. AnnaBeth asked about an article she read in the paper about felony prostitution charges. Sean explained there are two charges that can be made: soliciting and loitering--both misdemeanor. However, a new development says that three charges in a six month period will equal a felony prostitution charge.

ADOPT A HIGHWAY: The previously scheduled date was called off due to the weather. The next date is rescheduled for Thursday March 12 at 9:30 a.m.(weather permitting, of course.)

FESTIVAL OF NEIGHBORHOODS: WORKSHOPS:  Joe reminded Rachel to reply to the Neighborhood Advisory Committee that WECAN would be represented. They wanted an idea of how many would attend. The program includes two workshops from the following six: 1-  Development and Sustenance of a Neighborhood Newsletter  2-The Circle Forward Governance Program  3- Fundraising for Neighborhoods    4-Preventing Crime in Your Neighborhood  5-Creating a Vision for Your Neighborhood and 6- Citizens Police Advisory Council. The program begins at 2 pm on Sunday March 15 at AB Tech. The workshops will run until 3:45 and then refreshments and networking until 4:30. Joe will be there on behalf of NAC and will bring the WECAN Tri-fold display.  Rachel will RSVP for three. More can come if available. 

COMMUNITY GARDEN: The first meeting of the Community Gardeners was held at MHO due to weather on Sunday February 15. Joe, Byron, Rebecca and Lyn attended. Byron posted the minutes on Face Book.  Joe made a planning grid to get an idea of where to plant and also to address the concerns for open space that children use. He emphasized that as a pilot project we wanted to include all kinds of ideas. So the proposal for ten plots would be assigned as five for individual plots (there are about 5 people interested ) and five for group efforts such as a children's garden, compost area, pollinator/wildflower garden and nursery to provide stock for other WECAN plantings. Joe will meet with Marsha and Risk Management at Transit on March 17 at 1:30 to finalize the details of the Maintenance Agreement Amendment. The second Gardeners meeting is re-scheduled for Sunday March 15 at 5:30 on site.(Weather permitting.)  

ASHEVILLE DESIGN CENTER: Rachel reported that a proposal was made for a portable cover and stage platform for the area next to All Souls Pizza/RAD farmers market, but it was not selected.

GREEN OPPORTUNITIES: Rachel reported that they are having pop-up dinners on Thursdays at the Eddington Center. Not sure about details.(or what pop-up means.)      

GARDEN CLUB WEDNESDAYS: Joe announced that Garden Club Wednesdays would begin again on March 11, 18, 25 and 4/1. at 2 p.m. Locations to be determined. Suggestions welcome.

ASHEVILLE IN MOTION: The drop in charettes are set for 9-5 Tuesday-Friday March 10-13 with a summation at 10-12 on Saturday March 14. Location is the Renaissance Hotel.

OTHER: Sean announced that EWANA called a meeting about Short Term Rentals on March 30. Joe attended a forum put on by the Chamber last month. He explained that there was general agreement that there needs to be some rules and guidelines, but no significant opposition was made. There were concerns expressed about potential abuses and impact on neighborhoods. Floree had a problem tenant on Rector Street. She also reported a problem on her property that the city threatened to fine her about a stone wall that was leaning towards the sidewalk. Then they took away the stones and never came back to seed the slope with grass. Jessie noted the passing recently of 96 year old Carrie May Briggs who used to live on Clingman Place.

The meeting adjourned at 7:23 p.m.

DRAFT Minutes submitted by Joe Fioccola.

    April 2           Next WECAN BOARD Meeting 6:30 pm at 64 Clingman Avenue

    April 11        WECAN Spring Fling

    April 18        Asheville Green Works City Wide Clean Up Day

WECAN February 2015 Board Meeting Minutes • Draft

WECAN Board Meeting February 5, 2015 at 64 Clingman Ave.

Board Members Present were: Byron Ballard,  Jessie Nell Coleman, Joe Fioccola, AnnaBeth Hardcastle, Rebecca Lance, Rachel Larson, and  Rafael Rettig. Board Members not present were Jeff Carnivale (?), Tom Gibson, Mike Kenton, Floree Lowery, Luke W. Perry, Yuri Koslen, Marc Schieferstein, JoAnn Skinner, Pattiy Torno and Suzanne Willis.  Also present were: Marsha Stickford and CRO Lucas Lovelace and CRO Sean Davis. 

Chair Rachel called the meeting to order at 6:32 p.m 

NEIGHBOR/BLOCK JESSIE UPDATES: Canine/feline update: Reports that Coco, Banjo, Fiddle, Karl and Max were all doing well. AnnaBeth met new neighbors on Jefferson. She reported that drug and prostitution traffic were picking up again at the turn around on Jefferson. Marsha will meet with Joel Tweed about a possible partial solution.  AnnaBeth also has a problem with a neighbor whose dogs bark constantly when they are away. The neighbor is very nice but the problem goes on. Marsha requested a name and address to pursue it.

TREASURERS REPORT: AnnaBeth reported that the Balance in our account is $624.22 after paying for the newsletter and after the Garden Club donation.

MINUTES: The draft minutes were approved as distributed.

APD/CRO UPDATE: Sean reported a problem at 114 Clingman Ave where they responded to reports of syringes. Warrants have been issued on Luke Hutchins who has fled and they have been unable to make contact with the property owner. He also reported that RADBA was offering free classes to middle and high school age neighborhood young people. Regarding the graffiti initiative it was noted that there have been many appeals but a good sign was that the new District Attorney was more willing to use circumstantial proof tying offenders to other occurrences. He also reported that sanitation had done a clean up under the bridges. Joe reported that an area had been cleared across from Transit and camping detritus had been left there.

ASHEVILLE DESIGN CENTER: Rachel noted that they have extended their application deadline to February 13 for proposals for their summer design build project. Last year they took on a covering for the outdoor staircase at the YWCA and the year before built the '13 bones' pedestrian bridge next to Jean Webb Park. Some ideas were brought up. Rebecca suggested that there may be some interest in the 'farmers market' area next to All Soul's Pizza at 175 Clingman Avenue. She will contact the people involved and let them know of the deadline.

ADOPT A HIGHWAY: The date of the next clean up was set for Thursday February 19 at 10:00 a.m. A weekend date will be set for the next ones.

SOCIAL GATHERINGS: AnnaBeth pointed out that they usually call one in the summer when Lance makes sangria. The Halloween gathering was fun. Other ideas were an Easter Egg hunt, a fondue party, St Patricks Day, Equinox Celebration. Saturday April 11 was set for a Spring Fest. Joe noted that Block Jessies need to be activated and make contact with new neighbors and let them know about WECAN opportunities and a possible membership drive.

FESTIVAL OF NEIGHBORHOODS: WORKSHOPS: Save the Date! Joe announced that the Neighborhood Advisory Committee developed a follow up to the Festival of Neighborhoods in October 2013. An opportunity to network with other groups with six workshops on offer. Everyone is invited to attend two. They include 1-  Development and Sustenance of a Neighborhood Newsletter led by Joan Miller, editor of the Montford Newsletter;  2-The Circle Forward Governance Program led by Tracy Kunkler;  3- Fundraising for Neighborhoods led by Suzanne and Alan Escovitz (Grove Park/Sunset Mountain Neighborhood;   4-Preventing Crime in Your Neighborhood led by Asheville Police Officer Keith McCulloch; 5-Creating a Vision for Your Neighborhood led by City Councilman Chris Pelly and NAC Vice President Teddy Jordan; and 6- Citizens Police Advisory Council led by Committee members Debbie Applewhite, Larry Holt, and Lt. Janice Hawkins, APD; The program begins at 2 pm on Sunday March 15 at AB Tech. The workshops will run until 3:45 and then refreshments and networking until 4:30. If you are interested in attending email Joe. 

COMMUNITY GARDEN:  Marsha has drafted an amendment to our current Owens-Bell Park Maintenance Agreement. She wants us to look it over and then set up a meeting with the Risk Management Team to finalize it. Pattiy also is planning to seriously maintain the plantings from the Grey Eagle to the Traffic Circle. It is an ambitious two year plan to eradicate weeds and put in appropriate plantings. She wants to add an amendment to the agreement to include that area. The city assumes that there is neighborhood support. Byron assured everyone concerned that there are no plans drawn up yet for the community garden but a lot of ideas are floating around. A meeting will be called to develop a plan which will have to be approved by the City when we sign the amendment. A meeting of interested parties was set for Sunday February 15 at 4 pm on site.(weather permitting) Marsha will check for possible rain meeting space at Transit.(other potential rain meeting spaces: Aston Park, AnnaBeth's, Rebecca's, Byron and Joe's.).

SINKHOLE ON CLINGMAN Pattiy forwarded an email  from McCrae Coates that the sinkhole near the Grey Eagle was now blocked off and the City and DOT and MSD will meet to determine what is causing the problem and will collaborate on solutions.

ASHEVILLE IN MOTION: Marsha announced that drop in charettes were planned for Tuesday-Friday March 10-13 with a summation on Saturday March 14. Location TBA.

GREEN OPPORTUNITIES OPEN FOR LUNCH: Rachel announced that Monday thru Thursday from 12-1 the food preparation group  was providing lunch for a donation at the Eddington Center on Livingston Street.

NEW BELGIUM BREWERY: Rachel relayed that NBB has put out a request for Artist Portfolio Submissions. Rebecca will forward to artists she knows.

SCULPTURE: Marsha advised that a sculpture would very soon be created temporarily on the old Ice House site.

97 ROBERTS ST: Joe attended the P&Z meeting. It was a technical review to see if the plans were in compliance with regulations. No variance was requested so it does not go to City Council. The plans proposed about 20 parking spaces across Roberts Street and about twice that many including handicap accessible to an elevator on the north side of the building in the railroad right of way. There are four floors divided into about a dozen spaces  for artist studios, restaurants etc.  No objections or comments were presented.

STONEWORKS: Rafael reported that he heard a possible agreement had been reached to at the stone works which may affect Twelve Bones. 

The meeting adjourned at 7:47 p.m.

DRAFT Minutes submitted by Joe Fioccola.

March 5   Next WECAN BOARD Meeting 6:30 pm at 64 Clingman Avenue

WECAN January 2015 Board Meeting Minutes • Draft

WECAN Board Meeting January 8, 2015 at 64 Clingman Ave.

Board Members Present were: Byron Ballard,  Joe Fioccola, Rachel Larson, Rebecca Lance and  Luke W. Perry, Board Members not present were  Jeff Carnivale, Jessie Nell Coleman, Tom Gibson,  AnnaBeth Hardcastle, Mike Kenton, Yuri Koslen, Rafael Rettig, Marc Schieferstein, JoAnn Skinner, Pattiy Torno and Suzanne Willis.  Also present were: Marsha Stickford and CRO Lucas Lovelace. 

Chair Rachel called the meeting to order at 6:37 p.m 

NEIGHBOR/BLOCK JESSIE UPDATES: Byron reported that Jessie got a dog for Christmas which didn't have a name yet. Rachel reported that Chandler and Raphaella had moved out of 1 Park Ave. Two women were there now and looking for a roommate as was she. Tom lost a duck to some predator (raccoon?) and had to take out the rest of the flock. Luke reported that he does need a variance for the setback and roof changes on Yarrow Place which will delay the rehab into March.

TREASURERS REPORT: In absence of the treasurer Joe reported that the reimbursement for the newsletter printing and postage had been repaid. He reported that 66 copies of the newsletter were mailed to residents for which we have no email addresses and so far only three were returned. We need block Jessies to try and get more email addresses.

MINUTES: The draft minutes were approved as distributed with one correction. (Transit not Traffic)

APD/CRO UPDATE: Lucas requested to continue to watch for and report graffiti vandals. The areas being hit include Lyman, 146 Roberts Street, Clingman Extension and Depot Street. The problem is particularly difficult since this different culture tags businesses and box trucks immediately after they are repainted and then blogs about it. Rachel asked about exceptions if property owners don't want to remove it or consider it art. Marsha said that Legal advised that if it is sanctioned it can be considered art but you should not just call it art just so you don't have to pay to cover it up and if you don't take it down you are promoting it. It's not only vacant properties that are being hit nor is WECAN the only area affected. The ordinance is clear : if you vandalize someone else's property you are in violation. Officer Lovelace emphasized that enforcement is not selective but catching violators is not an easy task. Rebecca questioned whether the data about enforcement trends is pre-social media. Joe reported the tent on the riverbank just south of Craven Street bridge. Lucas had checked it and found it vacant. Rebecca noted that there was still a large amount of litter on the Pepsi Sign property that DOT recently cut down. Marsha will mention that when she calls DOT about some some campsites near there. Rebecca will also call the NCDOT office on Orange Street. Joe noted a new street light was put in last week on Hilliard at West Haywood.  Rebecca was bothered by the new light from Transit that covers the field next to the fence. It needs to be redirected.

ELECTION TO THE BOARD: Joe nominated Floree Lowery and Luke W. Perry as At-Large Board Members for a renewable one year term. Byron seconded and motion passed.

BOARD ORIENTATION: Joe will forward a copy of the By laws to Rebecca and to anyone else who wants them.

RE-ELECTION OF OFFICERS: Joe nominated current officers Rachel as Chair, Byron as Vice Chair, AnnaBeth as Treasurer and himself as Secretary. Motion seconded and passed.

PLANNING FOR 2015: There will be four Adopt A Highway Cleanups. Weather permitting they will be in February, May, August and November. The dates and times will be confirmed at each month's board meeting.

Social Gatherings: Joe asked if we need a committee and Byron suggested that the Jefferson neighbors do a very good job. We just need to set a date, theme and what to bring. Luke suggested gatherings be bi-monthly but did not specify odd or even months. Joe reviewed the other activities so far (besides Adopt A Highway): General Membership Meeting in June and Annual Meeting in December and Garden Club would reactivate in February and may add Tuesdays. He announced that the Coalition of Asheville Neighborhoods and the Chamber of Commerce were sponsoring a forum on Short Term Rentals at the Diana Wortham Theater on January 21st .He also announced that The Neighborhood Advisory Committee was scheduling workshops in March as a follow-up to the Festival of Neighborhoods. Topics considered include Developing a Neighborhood Newsletter; Communication; Crime/Safety-CPAC; Grassroots Fundraising; Creating a Vision for your Neighborhood; Introduction to Circle Forward: He also noted that Asheville Design Center was accepting applications for a Design Build Project this summer. ( Past projects include the Thirteen Bones Bridge and the YWCA's covered steps.) He also noted that the Frommer's guide has stirred up interest in our area.

COMMUNITY GARDEN UPDATE: Joe and Byron re-submitted the proposal to Marsha and after some details are worked out (such as soil testing and underground utilities and drainage relocation) will bring an addendum to the Owens-Bell Park Contract for board approval. No designs have been finalized yet, just focusing on getting the permission to put in the garden. Suggested are ten plots that are ten by ten feet. Several people have expressed interest and organizing meetings will be held hopefully before the planting season begins. (A copy of the proposal submitted is available on request)

UPDATES: Housing Market Study: not out yet--looking for a public meeting date this month.   Parks and Rec Facility: temporarily on hold seeking permits.

OTHER ISSUES: Luke questioned the unusual restriping on Hilliard between Coxe Ave and S. French Broad Ave. He asked with all the pedestrian traffic how is a sidewalk not a priority? He also asked  about the walkway to the pedestrian bridge at Hillcrest that storm water erosion is causing a problem at the top of the stairs. Joe reported that about 20-30 feet of the the chain link fence on the south side of I-240 between Clingman and the pedestrian bridge has been damaged. Marsha announced that New Belgium's Big Tank was coming on Saturday between 10 and 11 from Smoky Park Highway to Haywood Road to Craven Street. It is a 22 foot circular tank that is 16 feet tall. 

The meeting adjourned at 7:55 p.m.

DRAFT Minutes submitted by Joe Fioccola.

January 17    (WECAN Resident )Alex Krug Combo performing at Highland brewing 6:30-8:30 pm

February 5   Next WECAN BOARD Meeting 6:30 pm at 64 Clingman Avenue

WECAN December 2014 General Membership Meeting Minutes • Draft

WECAN General Membership Meeting December 4, 2014 at 64 Clingman Ave.

Board Members Present were: Byron Ballard, Jessie Nell Coleman, Joe Fioccola, AnnaBeth Hardcastle, Yuri Koslen, Rachel Larson. Board Members not present were  Jeff Carnivale, Tom Gibson, Mike Kenton, Luke W. Perry, Rafael Rettig, JoAnn Skinner, Pattiy Torno and Suzanne Willis.  Also present were: Marsha Stickford, Jeff Staudinger, CRO Sean Davis, Django Koslen, Charlie, Rebcca and Lee Lance, Floree Lowery and Cherish. 

After food Chair Rachel called the meeting to order at 6:38 p.m. with help from Charlie. Joe noted that the first Thursday in January is the first and that we will move the meeting to January 8th. After a round of introductions the draft minutes were approved on a motion from AnnaBeth seconded by Byron. The treasurer's report was incomplete due to expenses for printing and mailing the newsletter, but is around $600. It was suggested that some be made available to neighbors in need. as well as sending an email reminding residents that WECAN has tax exempt status and welcomes their support.

NEIGHBOR/BLOCK JESSIE UPDATES: Some address swapping on Jefferson and sad news that Jeff and Alphie will be moving to Texas. They will be missed.

PARKS MAINTENANCE FACILITY The Assistant Director of Economic and Community Development, Jeff Staudinger was happy to come to meetings and tell what he knows. The second part of his title means to make sure that low-income citizens are served and their needs are taken into account. He explained the City's interest in best uses of their many properties to achieve stability in their budget. Council has also established a priority for the development of affordable housing. In October they decided to find a better place for the Parks and Recreation Maintenance Facility. The first step is to relocate them in a temporary rental facility over the next 4 to 6 years. Then site issues will be explored such as access and egress, access to the (fully funded) greenway, relation to the Tennis Center and some Aston Park protective covenants and engineering potential site issues. Next criteria will be put together for developing the property and a Request for Proposals will be published.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING  Jeff explained the needs and challenges of affordable housing. On December 23 a Housing Market Study was due. Jeff said it would be available on the city website sometime in January. AnnaBeth noted that increasing property values, property taxes, gentrification, non-resident developers and house flippers have a severe impact on a community and development of a key property will have ripple effects. So having information helps us feel like we have a voice in what's coming down. Jeff announced that there would be a public meeting in January (date TBA) which will lead to a draft of priorities as they work on the next 5 year plan. They want citizens to weigh in on the best use to affordable housing for the diminishing Community Development Block Grant and HOME funds. He noted the availabliity of information on the HUD Resource Exchange website. CPD Maps show locations of concentrations of government supported public housing and income.

APD/CRO UPDATE: Sean reported there were no serious incidents. That White Duck Tacos had been broken into. He reached out for help in spotting the increase in graffiti at Depot Station and Clingman at Lyman and asked everyone to keep an eye out and report anything suspicious. Joe reported a tent was visible on the east bank of the river south of the Smith Bridge at Craven Street. Also a dirty American Flag was hanging at an angle on the pole at the southwest corner of Craven at Riverside. Marsha reported that the City graffiti plan was extended to September 2015 or until the allocated money was used up.  Regarding the DOT-cleared lots by the Pepsi Billboard Marsha is working on getting a regular clearing schedule. AnnaBeth noted less activity on Jefferson and was glad for the drive bys. Byron noted a very good respectful job at the recent Ferguson Rally. She reminded that APD officers are highly regarded in this community. There were many problems lately around our neighborhood with streets being closed or flagmanned. Marsha is working with a new citizens notification system.

Jessie reported that dog walkers have not been picking up dog waste. Marsha suggested contacting Animal Services to see if they have any suggestions. 

ELECTION TO THE BOARD: Joe noted that Mike Kenton, JoAnne Skinner and Suzanne Willis were each eligible for a second term. He nominated those three as well as Rebecca Lance to the class of 2017. AnnaBeth seconded and the motion passed. Welcome aboard!  

COMMUNITY GARDEN UPDATE: Marsha reported some movement on the proposal next to Asheville Redefines Traffic.Conversations with Nikki Reid and Norman Schenck (manager of Transit) who said it was a good idea. He said there was a transit employee with a tractor who could turn it and that bus drivers welcomed the opportunity to do weeding on their breaks. Marsha talked to Brad Stein in Risk Management and they said we wouldn't need insurance just a signed waiver. She still needs to talk to Ken Putnam. The strategy is to do this as a pilot project: tracking expenses and benefits. The hope is that as we identify partners they may also want to do more of this type of project in the City.  Next steps are to compile a list of challenges (ie access to water, potential underground utilities, etc.) then  

set a meeting and begin an action plan. Joe noted some pushback from parents who use the space as a playground.

Hopefully, a plan can be implemented by the spring planting season. 

The meeting adjourned at 8:20 p.m.

DRAFT Minutes submitted by Joe Fioccola.

January 8   Next  WECAN BOARD Meeting 6:30 pm at 64 Clingman Avenue

WECAN November 2014 Board Meeting Minutes • Draft

WECAN Board Meeting November 6, 2014 at 64 Clingman Ave.

Board Members Present were: Jessie Nell Coleman, Joe Fioccola, AnnaBeth Hardcastle and Rafael Rettig. Board Members not present were Byron Ballard, Jeff Carnivale, Tom Gibson, Mike Kenton, Yuri Koslen, Rachel Larson, Luke W. Perry, JoAnn Skinner, Pattiy Torno and Suzanne Willis.  Also present were: Marsha Stickford, CRO Sean Davis,

Acting Chair Joe called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. with Skittles.

MINUTES: The Draft September minutes were approved as distributed. The treasurer reported receipt of a $50 donation from Austin CPA at 301 Haywood Street. The current balance is $687.64. Joe received the check when the Garden Club was working across the street at Knoxville Place. They were grateful for the work the club has been doing around the neighborhood. 

APD/CRO UPDATE: Sean noted the tremendous cleanup by the DOT across from Jefferson. Several homeless campsites were cleared out. Joe noted that while it was impressive and a great job, what was cleared was private property owned by Naegle Sign Company. There are still more campsite leavings between the fence and the interstate. Marsha noted another problem spot for DOT at Haywood Road and Patton Avenue where weeds are growing so tall they block vision at the intersection. She will report the remaining campsites. Sean reported an incident on Park Avenue where the subject was arrested. and a couple who were living in an older F250 truck on Jefferson. They were referred to Homeward Bound and warned not to return. AnnaBeth noted that things have been better on Jefferson that it really makes a difference to have random checks. She noted that the lighting is better now. She also thanked her neighbors for their patience with the stretch limo parked there. 

NEIGHBOR/BLOCK JESSIE UPDATES: Luke is having an 'open house' to share initial designs for his house on Rector Street this Saturday November 8 between 3:30 and 5. AnnaBeth reported that the Halloween Celebration on Jefferson was a big success. There was a pot luck and people showed up in costumes and the rain held off until six o'clock. She would love it to be an annual affair.

MAILING LIST: Joe noted that the list needs to be updated soon ( to reduce postage costs before the newsletter is sent out.)

NEWSLETTER: Joe completed one article about the Garden Club. AnnaBeth agreed to write one on Jefferson Socials. Articles due: Byron: Two Neighborhoods into One; Luke: The history of Yarrow Place; Rachel: Olympians in WECAN. The copy deadline is November 10 for a publication date of November 20

ANNUAL MEETING: The General Membership Meeting will be on Thursday December 4 at 6:30. Still looking for ways to increase attendance. Local micro brew tasting and pizza were suggested.

The main agenda item is election of new board members. Those whose first term expires in December are: Mike Kenton, Jo Anne Skinner and Suzanne Willis. They are each eligible for a second term and another slot is also open.

ASHEVILLE IN MOTION: Joe attended the symposium on Saturday October 25. The panel did have a good conversation looking at the big picture issues of generational change and expectations. They have an online survey and encourage everyone to respond. The link is http://ashevilleinmotion.metroquest.com which will be open for about a month. Their initial survey results should come back before the second symposium sometime in March.  

NAC/CAN CONVERSATION: Joe announced that the next Coalition of Asheville Neighborhoods meeting would be at the Oakley Community Center on Monday November 10 from 7 to 9 pm. Marsha  explained that there would be a conversation on affordable housing. There will be an overview on the situation and explanation of what's being done, how sites are selected and what challenges are faced by Jeff Staudinger, Assistant Director of Housing and Community Development, Scott Dedman from Mountain Housing Opportunities and Paul Reeves from Habitat for Humanity. Some challenges are infill, short term rental effects and even the effect of micro homes at high end costs. 

NAC PROFILE: Joe on the Neighborhood Advisory Committee reported that they are working on the city website and will be including neighborhood profiles. He will fill out the basic information for the profile.

PARKS FACILITY STATUS: AnnaBeth asked for an update. Marsha explained that the old National Guard Armory was being prepared to receive the Parks maintenance equipment. There is  no asbestos in the facility and when the move is complete the building would be taken down. At some point an RFP would go out probably for mixed use/ mixed income with affordable housing. The School of Government was working on an RFP but unknown what the status is. Marsha advised that she could talk to Nicki Reed to get someone to talk to us about it.

STORMWATER ISSUE: Rafael found that because of the funding the project is overseen by the state and not by the city. He met with an engineer and reviewed plans and could not find a temporary parking lot already located on the old ball field anywhere in the plans. Some legal action may be an option.  The support letter proposed will be on hold for now. 

NEW BELGIUM BREWERY: Marsha reported changes in the street closing on Craven Street moving from Logan through Waynesville to Waynesville through Hazel Mill. Progress is also moving on the rerouting Hazel Mill to Craven Street and Emma Road.

OLD DAVE STEEL APARTMENTS:  Marsha indicated that some private development projects could be accessed on the ashevillenc.gov website under Development Mapper. AnnaBeth noted that sometimes projects are announced and then drop out of sight or change. There should be a way to make the process more visible to the community.

COMMUNITY GARDEN: There was a community gardening workshop on the same day as the AIM Symposium.  Marsha repeated the city's resistance to manage these projects. She will contact Agricultural Extension Agent Allison Arnold.

The meeting adjourned at 7:42 p.m.

DRAFT Minutes submitted by Joe Fioccola.

December 4   next  WECAN General Membership Meeting 6:30 pm at 64 Clingman Avenue