NOBL Minutes 02 26 08

Tuesday,
February 26, 2008

Neighbors

of Belknap Lookout: Minutes

Meeting
was called to order by Chair, Pete Stieler at 6:05pm

1. Welcome

   
   

2. Mrs. Vander
   Hof presentation. Dale Robart from Image Architecture concerning a
   zoning change: their primary interest was to have an address sign
   for their business on 619 College Avenue Northeast. They wanted to
   tear down the existing sub-standard house that is on their property
   and add green space, along with the desired address sign. Phil
   McConahy made the motion to approve, Andy Johnson seconded…the
   motion was carried.
   

   
   

3. Sunny Sodhi
   presented his plans for the improvement and expansion of the L&L
   Party Store. He requested two letters of support from the board:
   one for the zoning variance that he needs to expand and remodel the
   store; and another letter to extend the hours on a conditional
   basis, from 9am to 12 midnight (Fridays and Saturdays only): the
   condition being, that if he cannot control or reduce the noise, gang
   activity and drug dealing around his store, the board has the right
   to rescind these hours and reduce them back to their previous state
   after a 6 month period. He also reminded the board that just
   because he is from India, he is not related –in any way –to
   the nefarious Nick Singh, (the previous owner of the L&L
   Party Store).

   
   

4. Sunny Sodhi
   handed out his Conditional Letter for Approval to the
   board members, once again reaffirming his commitment to remodel the
   store in 3 to 5 years. Dr. Roosenberg suggested that for the time
   being, the board give a letter of support for the zoning variance
   for expansion only, and table the discussion for an increase in
   hours until after that particular variance is approved. Dr.
   Roosenberg motioned for a letter of support for the variance to
   expand the store and Joe Berens seconded…the motion was
   carried.
   

   
   

5. Jayne
   Johnson is appointed by our Chair, Pete Stieler, as a member of NOBL
   Board; as well as Safety Committee Chair.
   
   
   
   

   
   

6. Pete Stieler
   offered to create and donate 1000 address booklets for NOBL. He
   plans on seeking sponsors that will pay NOBL to place their
   advertisements in this booklet. The booklets will be 40 pages
   long, showcasing an A-Z listing of pertinent information; such as
   addresses, telephone numbers, and business sponsorship information.
   The cover will reflect the history of the Belknap Neighborhood and
   why it’s so important to become a member of NOBL, and on the
   back of the book, will be a two-year calendar; a move-in/move-out
   checklist (to make it easier for folks to relocate in the
   neighborhood), as well as a contact page regarding all the
   neighborhood services and citywide programs that there are
   available.
   
   

   
   

7. Pete Stieler
   has also created new receipt and donation forms for NOBL.
   
   
   
   

   
   

8. With regards
   to The Lookout Newsletter: Kristi DeKraker reminded us
   that we are contractually obligated by the city of Grand Rapids to
   publish 8 safety articles and 8 articles of neighborhood
   improvement per year. The vehicle for the dissemination of that
   information was up for discussion. Should it be a newsletter, or a
   flyer? Who will write and publish it? How will it be delivered?
   (By mail, or by hand?) Pete suggested that only NOBL members
   receive The Lookout, whereas Kristi proffered that by
   doing so, the rest of the neighborhood might then go unserved. Phil
   McConahy suggested instead, that a flyer be created; one with the
   information printed on both the front and back. Pete sought to look
   for sponsorship, and will continue to look into what the costs will
   be to mail a single-page flyer. The topic was then tabled.
   
   

   
   

9. The NOBL
   website was brought up: It is still in the creation stage.
   Walter Taylor still needs to add contact links, graphics, NOBL
   Minutes and Agendas, photos of members, fundraising information and
   events, if any. Pete will bring his digital camera on March 11^th
   to take pictures.
   

   
   

10. Update from
    the BBC: Becky Karwoski mentioned that the potluck was canceled.
    The Mid-Winter Raffle ends on March 30^th. March 8^th,
    the BBC will have its ATT Technological Grant and Asset Mapping work
    session. Chris Thompson is working on the trash ordinance with
    Anita Jones from the city. BBC didn’t get the NGA Grant, but
    they are working on other grants, such as the ATT
    Technological Grant and Captain Planet. The
    Home Depot awarded the BBC a deep discount with regards to garden
    supplies, and Scholastic is giving them a discount on books. BBC
    filed its grant with First Books; those that will be needed for
    their Cultivating Hands Garden Project. The BBC is
    still researching the history of the neighborhood. The results
    so far have determined that Samuel Dexter purchased our neighborhood
    back in December 2^nd, 1833. It was called White Pigeon
    Prairie at the time, and was part of, “The Michigan
    Territory.” An Act of Congress approved the sale and the deed
    was signed by President Andrew Jackson. It was finally recorded on
    September 8^th, 1921. .…Thus the reason why the
    BBC unanimously decided to approve the pigeon as its official
    logo...
    
    

    
    

11. Walter
    presented his statement regarding NOBL Board member participation
    within the community. A discussion was held…
    
    
    
    

    
    

12. Jayne
    Johnson mentioned that there is a need for Police Chief Belk, Deputy
    Chief James Farris, and Captain Pam Carrier to discuss our funding,
    community policing issues, neighborhood crime statistics, police
    response time and curfews. What can we do (as community members) to
    assist the Grand Rapids Police Department to further in their
    efforts to curb crime in our neighborhood? (There was even talk of
    creating a fundraiser to pay for additional police officers,
    primarily for the Belknap Neighborhood.)
    
    
    
    

    
    

13. Kristi
    DeKraker said that we might be able to get more Radon test kits for
    the neighborhood, but it may depend upon the budget of the Healthy
    Homes Coalition.
    
    
    
    

    
    

14. Meeting was
    adjourned: Phil McConahy motioned, Joe Berens seconded: 7:46pm

    
    

NOBL Minutes 08 12 08

NOBL
Minutes

8-12-08

• Welcome to all

  
  

• Meeting officially called to
  order at 6:03pm. Present were Bob Roosenberg, JD Formaz, Joe
  Berens, Phil McConahy, Jayne Johnson, Andy Johnson and Walter
  Taylor. Guest speakers were David Swartwout and Suzanne Schulz.

  
  

• No additions to the agenda

  
  

• Approval of last month’s
  Meeting Minutes and financial statements: Phil McConahy motioned
  to accept the Minutes and financial statements and JD Formaz
  seconded. All were in favor and the motion was passed.

  
  

Committee
Reports

• Safety: There hasn’t
  been another report about the man who was flashing neighbors late at
  night. There was a B&E on the 600 block of Livingston. The
  hotspots in the neighborhood are being worked on.

  
  
  
  

  • Progress in Coit Park about
    signage and utilizing the restrooms is positive and ongoing.
    Around dusk, we need the police to come and shine their lights in
    the park to dissuade troublemakers and drug transactions.
    

    
    

  • People driving go-carts around
    the area late at night need to be called right into police
    dispatch.

    
    
  
  

• Housing: Andy Johnson
  went by the 600 block of Coit and noticed improvements. Bob
  Roosenberg mentioned that he heard that some of these houses were
  having difficulties with some of their tenants and asked if Andy
  Johnson could follow up on some of these places to make sure that
  they’ve gotten their certification. David Swartwout said that
  he would be willing to help Andy with certain housing issues that
  need to be addressed. Are there specific houses that need to be
  mentioned?

  
  

• Executive Committee: We
  have not met formally and have nothing to offer.

  
  

• Fundraisers: JD Formaz is
  wondering if anyone has come up with any fundraising ideas. There
  was a committee that was formed last month (Sondra Loukes Wilson,
  Becky Karwoski, Chris Thompson, Jayne Johnson and Brian Bremer).
  Within the next week, he will contact these people and get back to
  the board with ideas. It was mentioned that we need more volunteers
  in the neighborhood.
  

  
  

• Belknap Beautification
  Committee: The community garden is going well. Some of the
  vegetables that were planted didn’t grow as well as was hoped
  for, but all in all, everything else looks great. Ms. Elton’s
  class from Coit Academy will also be back at the garden next week.
  There should be between 20-25 children. The BBC Chili Cookout is
  set for October 11, 2008.

  
  

• Staff Report: National
  Night Out went well. There were 100-200 people at the event. There
  was food, games, gifts and prizes, like bike helmets for the
  children. The money used to put on the event ($654) was from a
  grant, so nothing came out of NOBL’s general fund. It went
  really well, so we’re going to do it again next year.
  

  
  
  
  

  • We need to fundraise for next
    year’s event, because we can’t rely on the grant again.
    
    

    
    

  • Back to School Bash: there
    were a couple of snafus: there were only supplies for 100 children
    and not 400 as previously thought. Urban Health paid for the
    hotdogs and the rest of the supplies for the event were donated.
    All in all it was a great event.
    

    
    

  • Thireca plans to expand:
    Suzanne Schulz said that the owner of Thireca wants to purchase the
    3 homes to the north, allowing him to expand his building into
    where his parking lot now sits. He would then create a new parking
    lot just behind Clancy Street Ministries. He also wants to buy 3
    homes on the other side of Matilda and tear them down to build
    another parking lot. He has talked to people in the neighborhood
    and has not met resistance to his plans. Kristi DeKraker will call
    the owner of Thireca and ask him if he would be willing to present
    his plans to NOBL before his meeting with the City.
    

    
    
  
  

• We commend our Crime
  Prevention/Community Organizer Kristi DeKraker for working so
  hard on the National Night Out and the Back to School Bash events.
  

  
  

• NOBL Board Candidates:

  
  
  
  

  • David Shannon moved
    into the neighborhood in 1988. He purchased his property at
    510/512 Coit back in 2001. He strongly believes that everyone
    living in the Belknap Area has a say in what goes on; whether they
    be renters or homeowners. David is a Block Captain. He also
    belongs to many different groups and organizations outside of the
    Belknap Area.
    

    
    

  • Marty Morgan moved into
    the neighborhood in October of 2007 and lives at Newberry Place.
    He his happy to be here and wants to be the first representative of
    Newberry Place on the NOBL Board.
    

    
    
  
  

• Phil McConahy thanked both
  candidates for their interest in offering their services and
  reminded everyone that there will be many NOBL positions open come
  November.

  
  

• Paper ballots were handed out
  to all board members at the table for a vote. They were then
  collected by Kristi DeKraker, with the results to be read near the
  close of the meeting.

  
  

Old
Business

• 
  L&L Extension of Hours: JD Formaz requested that the
  discussion for the extension of hours be tabled. Jayne Johnson
  asked why and Sunny Sodhi, the owner of L&L Party Store, stated
  that he wanted to show everyone how committed he is before a
  decision is made about the extension. Bob Roosenberg asked if Sunny
  could open up some of the space in the store for more grocery items.
  Sunny said that he already has a lot of groceries in his store, and
  that if anyone needs anything in particular, all they have to do is
  ask and he will make sure it is stocked. Bob then said that he
  received some e-mails with concerns about some of the product that
  is being sold in the store, such as rolling papers. He asked if
  Sunny could cut back on sales of some of those products. Sunny
  responded by saying that many people still roll their own cigarettes
  in this neighborhood; especially when packs are running well over
  $5.00. He reminded the board that everything in his store is legal
  to sell by law, and that he cannot stand in judgment over whom to
  sell certain items to, let alone be responsible for how those items
  might be used. Bob Roosenberg mentioned an article in the paper
  about tax breaks for neighborhood grocery stores.

  
  

• Tentatively
  Proposed NOBL Policy: The Policy was mailed out to Block
  Captains and the process is coming along well.

  
  

New
Business

• David Swartwout
  proposed his Belknap Lookout Neighborhood Area-Specific Plan
  Alternative. Copies of the plan as well as color-coded maps
  were then passed out to Board Members. He stated that unlike the
  developer’s Area Specific Plan Draft, his plan follows the
  current and existing land use and zoning classifications offered by
  the City’s Master Plan and Zoning Ordinance. While drafting
  his proposal, he noticed some obvious discrepancies between both the
  plans and rectified the problem by harmonizing them. A discussion
  was held.

  
  

• Suzanne Schulz
  spoke about the developer’s Belknap Neighborhood Area
  Specific Plan Draft, the Discussion Guide, and the Quick
  Questions sheet. September 25, 2008 will be the public meeting
  before the City Planning Commission. Postcard reminders will be
  sent out ahead of time to those living in the Belknap neighborhood.
  The planning commission is looking for information from residents on
  how to proceed. She encouraged all those with questions or comments
  that can’t make it to the meeting to send their letters or
  e-mails to City Planning Commissioners. There was a discussion as
  to whether residents had enough time to read and respond to all the
  information included with the draft packet. Jayne Johnson
  responded by saying that most block contacts were pleased with the
  Quick Questions sheet (versus the lengthy Discussion
  Guide).
  

  
  

• On
  The Hill Newsletter: Walter Taylor will put a
  disclaimer on the newsletter stating that it is a privately owned
  newsletter and not affiliated with NOBL.
  

  
  

• Phil McConahy
  brought up the fact that NOBL is required to have its own
  informational newsletter or flyer. It was mentioned that our
  neighborhood had a newsletter that came out four times a year, but
  ever since Anita Prins resigned, that niche has been filled by On
  The Hill.. Marty Morgan offered that perhaps NOBL
  should consider a blog instead and offered his assistance to anyone
  who might be interested in creating one.

  
  

• Bob Roosenberg
  brought up concerns about Walter Taylor recording Suzanne Schulz’s
  conversation without her consent. Walter Taylor addressed the
  situation quickly by first apologizing to Suzanne Schulz, but added
  that under Michigan law it is totally within his legal right to
  record any conversation, so long as at least one of the parties
  involved know about the recording. He assured Suzanne that in
  future conversations with her, as a courtesy, he would let her know
  whether or not she was being recorded.

  
  

• Appointments:
  All the paper ballots were counted and the results of the vote
  were announced… Marty Morgan won and is officially the newest
  NOBL Board Member.

  
  

Public
Comment

• Angel Gonzalez
  mentioned that Suzanne Schulz did a great job of putting together
  the questionnaire and mentioned that it’s important that we
  get the information out to everyone.

  
  

• Suzanne Schulz
  stated that this is the first plan, and it is interesting!
  Hopefully everyone can live with the end result. Perhaps it’s
  something that everyone can be proud of…?

  
  

• David Swartwout
  gave out his e-mail address.

  
  

• Sunny reiterated
  that if anyone has any problems regarding his store that they should
  come to him before they go to anyone else.

  
  

• Jayne Johnson
  motioned to adjourn the meeting and J.D. Formaz seconded. All were
  in favor and the motion was passed.
  

  
  

• The meeting
  was adjourned at 7:16pm

  
  

1

NOBL Minutes 07 08 08

NOBL
Meeting Minutes
July 8, 2008

• Welcome to all!

  
  

• Meeting was
  called to order at 6:03pm. Present were Joe Berens, Phil
  McConahy, Acting- Chairman Bob Roosenberg, Safety Chair
  Jayne Johnson, Housing Chair Andy Johnson, Treasurer
  J.D. Formaz and Executive Secretary Walter Taylor.
  

  
  

• Meeting Minutes
  from June: Phil McConahy made a motion to accept the NOBL
  Meeting Minutes, Andy Johnson seconded and votes were cast. All
  were in favor, and the motion to accept the Meeting Minutes for June
  was approved.

  
  

• Financials:
  Copies of NOBL’s financial statement were provided at the
  Board Meeting. J.D. Formaz brought up the fact that NOBL Board
  Members need to come together and work on ways to raise money
  through fundraisers, activities, a Farmer’s Market, etc.:
  anything that might bring some money into the NOBL coffers. Joe
  Berens made a motion to accept the idea, Jayne Johnson seconded and
  votes were cast. All were in favor and the motion was carried.

  
  

• Safety: We
  have National Night Out coming up on August 5^th at 5-7
  pm. Kristi DeKraker and the Board Members of the BBC are working on
  pulling together resources for the event.

  
  
  
  

  • Suspicious
    Activity: Kristi DeKraker mentioned that we have a Hispanic male,
    approximately 5’8” to 5’10” tall, with a
    military-style buzz cut going around and throwing rocks at windows,
    then exposing him self to the women that respond. These incidents
    happen in the early morning; usually between 3 and 5am. Everyone
    should be on the lookout for this person. If you see anything out
    of the ordinary, please call the police department. Block contacts
    should also be notified of the situation.

    
    
  
  

• Housing:
  Housing Chair Andy Johnson presented a list of properties to
  Kristi DeKraker that need repair.
  

  
  
  
  

  • It was brought up
    that property owners are responsible for maintaining the back area
    of their lot all the way to the alleyway; this means overgrown
    brush and debris. Letters need to be sent to landlords in the
    Belknap Area regarding their roles and responsibilities. Most of
    the landlords on the 600 block of Coit need to work on maintaining
    their properties. The NOBL Board will follow up on this matter at
    the next Board meeting.
    

    
    

  • There are
    concerns about trash pickup and brush removal. If you miss your
    regularly scheduled trash day, you cannot dump your trash.
    Neighbors must be apprised of the day and times for trash removal.
    Perhaps an article can be placed in On The Hill to remind renters
    and new homeowners. The number for Streets and Sanitation is:
    456-3232

    
    
  
  

• Executive
  Report: No Executive Report for this month.

  
  

• BBC: The
  Cultivating Hands Children’s Garden received a visit from
  Grand Rapids Magazine and from Spectrum’s Healthier
  Communities; both were very impressed and Grand Rapids
  Magazine wishes to do a story on the garden!

  
  
  
  

  • BBC Executive
    Secretary Chris Thompson went to the Citizen’s Planner
    Conference in Lansing, as well as Green Grand Rapids that
    was held at Devos Place.
    

    
    

  • Chris Thompson
    would like to introduce the idea of having a Farmer’s Market
    in the neighborhood. Hopefully once the gardens begin to bear their
    fruit this vision can be realized…
    

    
    

  • The BBC made over
    $108 (net profit) by selling glow sticks, pop, chips and water
    during the 4^th of July.
    

    
    

  • BBC’s Yard
    and Garden Contest is still in full swing and runs through
    September. Everyone living in the Belknap Area is automatically
    entered to win. There are First, Second and Third Place cash
    prizes; along with 10 Top Honorable Mentions. Winners will receive
    their names, addresses and pictures in upcoming editions of On
    The Hill.
    

    
    
  
  

• Staff Report:
  July 1^st started our new contract year with the City.
  

  
  
  
  

  • Funding for
    Fiscal Year 2010 will most likely be decreased.

    
    

  • If you are
    interested in volunteering for National Night Out and the Back to
    School Bash, please contact Kristi DeKraker; she is in the process
    of organizing the events. There will be an information booth at
    the event; as well as the GRPD, the GRFD, EMS and Safe Kids…
    
    

    
    

  • There is also a
    block meeting coming up at Newberry Place.

    
    
  
  

Old
Business

• Acting-Chairman
  Bob Roosenberg brought up last month’s Board vote
  concerning (then Chairman), Pete Stieler’s behavior and the
  recommendation that he be removed from office. Shortly thereafter,
  Bob Roosenberg stated he received Pete Stieler’s resignation
  from the NOBL Board.

  
  

• Block
  Captains/Contacts are a source of information and distribution. Do
  we have representation on all blocks?

  
  

• There are some
  blocks that don’t have a contact person at all. We need to
  work on filling those positions; it will be an ongoing task.

  
  

• There is also
  no block contact on the 800 block of Coit. J.D. Formaz said that
  he would be willing to be the Block Contact for that area.
  

  
  

New
Business

• Phil’s
  McConahy’s Presentation: Phil presented a proposal
  regarding the unwritten policies of NOBL and requested that it be
  adopted by the NOBL Board. A discussion was then held and two (2)
  motions were presented to the board:

  
  

1. Jayne Johnson made
   a motion that the NOBL Board table voting on the proposed policy
   until further input from all Block Captains in the neighborhood
   could be made.

   
   

2. Walter Taylor
   motioned that the proposed policy be passed tentatively (as a means
   to safeguard NOBL and the Belknap Neighborhood): whereas afterwards,
   reactions and revisions from the Block Captains/Contacts concerning
   its wording could be thoroughly and thoughtfully adjusted.
   

   
   

• Joe Berens
  voiced his reservations regarding some of the wording in the
  proposal.
  

  
  

• Walter Taylor’s
  motion was brought to a vote: J.D. Formaz seconded the motion and
  votes were cast. All in favor were: J.D. Formaz, Phil McConahy,
  Andy Johnson, Walter Taylor, and Jayne Johnson. All opposed were
  Joe Berens… The motion to accept the proposal as the
  tentative policy of NOBL was passed. The Tentatively
  Proposed NOBL Policy will be sent to the available Block
  Captains/Contacts for their conscientious and deliberate
  assessment.
  

  
  

• Sunny Sodhi’s
  Presentation: Sunny Sodhi requested a Conditional Letter of
  Approval from the NOBL Board to extend the hours of L&L
  Party Store from 10am-10pm Monday through Saturday, to 9am-11pm
  Monday through Saturday for 6 months. He added that if it didn’t
  work out, (i.e.,: he couldn’t control the loitering, drug
  traffic, or the noise in front of his store, that he would –
  on bequest of the NOBL Board - go back to his regular hours. A
  discussion was held:
  

  
  

• Jayne Johnson
  mentioned that when the store is open, troublemakers stay away. But
  when the store is closed, people from all over begin to loiter, deal
  drugs, etc.
  

  
  

• Dr. Roosenberg
  questioned approving an extension of hours in consideration of
  school hours.
  

  
  

• Andy Johnson
  reminded everyone that Sunny has done a lot for the community.
  

  
  

• Becky Karwoski
  mentioned that the activity around Sunny’s store is not so bad
  anymore.

  
  

• Dr. Roosenberg had
  concerns about winter time and people driving up with boom boxes.
  (Could Sunny put up additional parking?) Roosenberg offered
  to table the discussion.
  

  
  

• There was a
  caveat made by Sunny that if anyone notices anything out of the
  ordinary around his store to come to him first to address the
  situation before going to anyone else.
  

  
  

• Phil McConahy made
  a motion that Sunny Sodhi’s hours be extended and Jayne
  Johnson seconded. Votes were cast. All in favor were: Joe Berens,
  J.D. Formaz, Phil McConahy, Jane Johnson, Andy Johnson and Walter
  Taylor. The motion was carried.

  
  

• The Conditional
  Letter of Approval from NOBL regarding the request from the
  owners of the L&L Party regarding their extension of hours was
  passed.
  

  
  

• Concerns by
  NOBL Board Member Joe Berens: Joe Berens brought up recent
  E-mails that Executive Secretary Walter Taylor sent to Grand
  Rapids City officials, as well as to neighbors regarding the
  development group and the people involved. He was disturbed by the
  fact that not all NOBL Board Members received copies of these
  E-mails. Moreover, he felt that Walter Taylor misused his official
  NOBL Board position by recklessly sending his personal commentary to
  City officials and signing his E-mails using his official NOBL Board
  title. He requested that the NOBL Board censure Walter Taylor at
  the very least, or remove him from office altogether. A discussion
  was held:

  
  

• Phil McConahy
  mentioned that the NOBL bylaws are too vague and that they need to
  be amended to accommodate more definitive information: such as a
  censure or an expulsion from the NOBL Board for violations of such a
  nature. Under the current bylaw guidelines, as they now stand,
  there is no written mention of using one’s title or
  status errantly.
  

  
  

• Jayne Johnson
  concurred with Phil McConahy in that there are no true definitive
  written rules prohibiting the use of one’s official status
  with regards to contacting City officials in the NOBL bylaws,
  although there may be an unwritten, “understanding.”
  She then offered up a motion: that if a NOBL Board Member’s
  statement is not one approved or supported by the NOBL Board, they
  cannot sign any letter or E-mail with their elected NOBL title or
  designation, and must also mention within any document to offered to
  City officials that they are writing on behalf of their own accord
  (as a private citizen, and in their own opinion).
  

  
  

• Phil McConahy
  seconded the motion and votes were cast. All in favor were: Joe
  Berens, J.D. Formaz, Phil McConahy, Jane Johnson, Andy Johnson and
  Walter Taylor. The motion was carried.
  

  
  

• Concerns by
  J.D. Formaz: J.D. Formaz asked if there was a way we could come
  up with a moneymaking opportunity or fundraiser for NOBL: whether
  that would be a Car wash, a Farmer’s Market, or an Art Fair;
  anything that might bring the community together and make money for
  NOBL.
  

  
  

• Roosenberg made a
  request that a public committee be formed to work with J.D. Formaz
  on this concept. He then asked if anyone at the meeting would be
  willing to help.
  

  
  

• Becky Karwoski,
  Sondra Wilson, Chris Thompson, Jayne Johnson and Brian Bremer all
  raised their hands in support of the idea.
  

  
  

• J.D. Formaz will
  present his fundraising ideas at the next NOBL Board Meeting.
  

  
  



• Neighbors
  Interested in Becoming NOBL Board Members: Dr. Roosenberg
  brought up the fact that we need to fill the empty seat on the NOBL
  Board as soon as possible. He stated that if any of us know of
  someone who might be a good candidate for the position to let him
  know immediately by sending him an e-mail with their name, their
  qualifications and their reasons for wanting to join. He [Dr.
  Roosenberg] stressed that the position of Chairman must be filled
  and that he will stay on as Acting-Chair of NOBL until the elections
  in November.
  

  
  
  
  

  • There will not be
    a vote for vice-Chair until the November elections.
    

    
    

  • Dave Shannon
    mentioned that he is interested in becoming a NOBL Board Member.
    

    
    
  
  

• Jayne Johnson
  wants to know when the block captains will get their Area Specific
  Plan Draft/Information Packets so that they can disseminate that
  information to others. Are we going to mail them or distribute
  them by hand? We have to wait for the information from the
  City. Once the packets are made, Kristi DeKraker will contact
  Jayne.

  
  

Public
Comments:

• Angel Gonzalez was
  bothered that NOBL passed the motion to write a Conditional
  Letter of Approval to extend Sunny Sodhi’s hours at the
  L&L Party Store. He felt that the Belknap Community was not
  given the opportunity to express their concerns regarding the
  extension of said hours, and also went on to say that the
  Tentatively Proposed NOBL Policy was rushed into a vote
  without initial neighborhood input. He feels that the NOBL Board
  is, “putting the cart before the horse…”
  

  
  

• Walter Taylor
  mentioned that Angel Gonzalez didn’t seek a, “ true
  consensus of community opinion” when it came to his public
  redevelopment/rezoning charrettes; so why was he so concerned with
  public opinion now regarding the extension of the L&L Party
  Store hours?
  

  
  

• Jayne Johnson
  responded to Angel’s comments.
  

  
  

• Sondra Loukes
  Wilson stated that we all should be proud that we have so much
  passion about our neighborhood, and that what is going on now, is
  democracy in action. She encouraged us to take the energy and the
  commradery that we feel and put it to good use within our community.
  
  

  
  

• Phil McConahy
  motioned to end the meeting and J.D. Formaz seconded. All were in
  favor and the motion was carried. The meeting was adjourned at
  7:45pm.
  

  
  

1

NOBL Minutes 06 10 08

NOBL
Minutes

June
10, 2008

• Welcome

  
  

• Present were Joe Berens, Phil
  McConahy, (Acting President) Bob Roosenberg, Jayne Johnson,
  Jessica Doane, Officer Neil Gomez, Andy Johnson, J.D. Formaz and
  Walter Taylor. (Chairman Pete Stieler was not present.)
  

  
  

• Joe Berens motioned to approve
  the Meeting Minutes from May; Phil McConahy seconded; all were in
  favor. The motion was carried.

  
  

• The Financial statement
  was discussed. Walter Taylor motioned to accept, Joe Berens
  seconded; all were in favor. The motion was carried.

  
  

• Committee Reports:
  Officer Gomez spoke before the board about catalytic converters and
  how they are being stolen from vehicles. He also mentioned that
  there have been a couple of arrests at Coit Park for narcotics.
  Kristi DeKraker spoke about how the Safety Committee sent a letter
  on behalf of the neighbors to the arraigning judge, expressing zero
  tolerance for criminal activity (i.e., drugs) in our park. By
  sending such letters (and showing up on arraignment days), we hope
  to send a clear message that criminal activity of any kind will not
  be tolerated. She went on to say that this process was very
  effective in the late 1990’s. Bob Roosenberg asked if there
  was a way to get photographs of the suspects in question so they
  could be posted at prominent places in the neighborhood.
  Photographs can be found on the Internet at: www.accesskent.com
  Officer Gomez stated that there was a shooting at Coit Park which
  seemed to be an isolated incident. There were no victims and, to
  his knowledge, it was not gang-related. Safety Committee Chair
  Jayne Johnson said that she has witnessed groups of young males
  walking down the street carrying baseball bats at 1:00am. Officer
  Gomez spoke about enforcing curfews.

  
  

• BBC: Chair Becky
  Karwoski mentioned the progress of their plantings at Cultivating
  Hands and Sunny’s Garden…things are coming along pretty
  well and both gardens are prospering. Mrs. Elton’s class was
  at the Children’s Garden and the kids really enjoyed
  themselves.

  
  

New
Business

• The 4^th of July
  was discussed. BBC will sell glow-in-the-dark necklaces and
  bracelets, pop, chips and water to make money for future endeavors.
  Kristi DeKraker will create pamphlets for Livingston and Fairview
  regarding the use of illegal fireworks and street accessibility, not
  to mention the “open container” policy. Walter Taylor
  agreed to deliver the flyers on Fairview and Brian Bremer agreed to
  help deliver flyers on Livingston.
  

  
  

• The 5^th Annual
  Back to School Bash will happen on August 7^th at Coit
  Park. No backpacks will be handed out this year. There will be
  food and fun. The Grand Rapids Police Department and the Grand
  Rapids Fire Department will be on hand to usher in the new school
  year.
  

  
  

• National Night Out will
  be on August 5^th at Coit Park.
  

  
  

• Walter Taylor made a motion to
  remove Pete Stieler from his position as President of NOBL; J.D.
  Formaz seconded. A discussion was held and votes were cast. All in
  favor were Jayne Johnson, Jessica Doane, Andy Johnson, J.D. Formaz,
  Phil McConahy and Walter Taylor. All opposed were Joe Berens. The
  motion was carried. Pete Stieler is now suspended from office
  until the next meeting (7/8/08), at which time he will be given the
  opportunity to defend his actions to the Neighbors of Belknap
  Lookout.

  
  

• Bob Roosenberg stated that he
  will act as Chair pro temp at the next meeting until there is
  a vote for a replacement.

  
  

• Walter Taylor also made a
  motion to remove Pete Stieler as a Board Member of NOBL; J.D. Formaz
  seconded. A discussion was held and votes were cast. All in favor
  were Jayne Johnson, Jessica Doane, Andy Johnson, J.D. Formaz, Phil
  McConahy and Walter Taylor. All opposed was Joe Berens. The
  motion was carried. Pete Stieler is now suspended as a member
  of NOBL until the next meeting (7/8/08), at which time he will be
  given the opportunity to defend his actions to the Neighbors of
  Belknap Lookout.

  
  

• Acting-Chairman Bob Roosenberg
  stated how displeased and disgusted he was with Pete Stieler’s
  actions during the last public neighborhood meeting.
  

  
  

• Jayne Johnson spoke about how
  the Block Captains would each like a copy of the
  redevelopment/rezoning draft so they can go through it (at their
  leisure)with the neighbors on their block. They want to feel free
  enough to be able to say what they like (or don’t like) about
  the plan without developer intrusion. Essentially, they expect a
  safe venue (away from the prying eyes) upon which to discuss the
  plan anonymously.
  

  
  

Public
Comments

• Jayne Johnson mentioned that we
  have to come to some kind of consensus and common ground amongst the
  block captains and the neighborhood regarding new development.
  

  
  

• Pastor Carol Faas questioned
  the procedure of inviting only Block Captains to the Public
  Charrettes, versus inviting all the neighbors living in our
  neighborhood. A discussion was held.

  
  

• Steve Faas stated that if
  anyone has any information that they would like to get out to every
  neighbor, he has the resources during the next few days to
  accommodate that need.
  

  
  

• Gretchen Warnimont spoke about
  her run in with Pete Stieler and requested that he be removed from
  office before he hurts somebody else. “As a concerned and
  scared neighbor, when I can’t walk down my own street, we all
  have a problem…”
  

  
  

• Angel Gonzalez spoke about the
  Area Specific Plan and the importance of redeveloping portions of
  the Belknap Neighborhood. Walter Taylor responded that many people
  in the neighborhood are suspicious of the developers, due to the
  fact that many neighbors never even received a flyer, let alone
  heard of the, “public meetings.” He offered that
  perhaps the developers should create enough flyers for the entire
  Belknap Neighborhood next time they plan to hold a Public Charrette.
  

  
  

• Pastor Carol Faas questioned
  the intentions of the development consortium and mentioned that she
  was personally upset that they seemed to have made themselves
  available at all of the tables, in an effort to cajole the decisions
  of others.
  

  
  

• Officer Neil Gomez talked about
  the charrette meeting and having to police the situation if needs
  be.

  
  

• Jayne Johnson offered that
  there must be a balance when it comes to participation from both the
  developers and the people from the neighborhood.

  
  

• Ben talked about the zoning
  ordinance and its approval. He presented a road map of all the
  properties in the neighborhood; including properties owned by the
  Beckett’s, the Gonzalez’s and the Horling’s.
  

  
  

• Angel Gonzalez voiced that
  their Area Specific Plan is just a road map of what is possible in
  the Belknap Neighborhood.

  
  

• Jayne Johnson responded by
  saying that Area Specific Plans are designed to give a voice to each
  person in the community, and not just a select few…

  
  

• Jayne Johnson motioned to
  adjourn the meeting and J.D. Formaz seconded; the motion was
  carried.

  
  

• The meeting ended at 7:39pm

  
  

1

NOBL Minutes 05 13 08

Neighbors
of Belknap Lookout

Meeting
Minutes for May 13^th 2008

• Welcome
  all.

  
  

• Meeting
  called to order by Pete Stieler at 5:57pm. Board Members
  present: Pete Stieler, Robert Roosenberg, Andy Johnson, Jayne
  Johnson, J.D. Formaz, Joe Berens, Phil McConahy and Walter Taylor.

  
  

• Minutes
  for April: Pete called for a motion to accept, Phil McConahy
  motioned, Bob Roosenberg seconded… The motion was carried.

  
  

• Financial
  Report: Pete Stieler called for a motion to accept the financial
  report presented by Kristi DeKraker. Jayne Johnson motioned, J.D.
  Formaz seconded… The motion was carried.

  
  

• Reminder:
  A public charrette is coming up on May 19, 2008. We need to get the
  word out to the community.

  
  

• The
  Rental Property Owners Association (RPOA) is meeting with the
  City and asking for possible ordinance changes. They want to adopt
  the International Maintenance Housing Code, which may lower some of
  the standards as well as violation fees. The pros and cons of
  window pinning as a safety measure were also discussed. Any
  questions? Call 456-3053.
  

  
  

• Safety
  report and Presentation from Neil Gomez:

  
  
  
  

  • There
    have been catalytic converter thefts as of late.
    

    
    

  • Gang
    graffiti was found in the alleyway just west of 800 Clancy.
    Officer Gomez thinks that the people at 833 Clancy might have
    something to do with it.
    

    
    

  • Belknap
    Commons is also having some problems with gangsters. Officer Gomez
    presented the Board with some of the symbols and markings that gang
    members use to mark their territories. Pages of the symbols were
    passed around. It was mentioned that individuals on the 600 Block
    of Prospect might have something to do with the graffiti.

    
    

  • Jayne
    Johnson offered that perhaps the people involved in the
    neighborhood walkabout could make their presence known in the 800
    block of Clancy and the 600 block of Prospect.
    

    
    

  • If
    you happen to see anything out of the ordinary, please let Officer
    Gomez or Kristi DeKraker know.
    

    
    

  • Incidents
    in Coit Park have been reduced due to extra police patrols. It was
    offered that perhaps fencing the park (in some areas) would also
    help in curbing crime?

    
    

  • Jayne
    Johnson noticed Community Officers in plain clothes around Coit
    School checking vehicles for child booster seats. Children below
    4’9” and 80# are required to use booster seats.
    

    
    

  • In
    closing, Officer Gomez reminded us to keep an eye out for gang
    activity.
    

    
    
  
  

• Cultivating
  Hands Children’s Garden: Kristi DeKraker reminded everyone
  that the garden (located at 618 Clancy) will be starting soon and
  that they still need a picnic table. Donations are accepted.

  
  

• The
  new City contract for the 2009 Fiscal Year: Pete Stieler called
  for a motion to accept NOBL’s new contract with the City. (It
  is basically the same contract NOBL has been operating under since
  1981.) Phil McConahy motioned to accept, Jayne Johnson
  seconded… The motion was carried.

  
  

• Public
  Charrette flyers were handed out to each Board Member to
  deliver.

  
  

Public
Comments

• Denise,
  one of our neighbors that live on the 500 block of Livingston,
  introduced herself and was heartily welcomed.
  

  
  

• Pete
  Stieler called for a motion to adjourn. Jayne Johnson motioned and
  Frank Doane (husband of Board Member Jessica Doane) seconded…
  The motion was carried.
  

  
  

6:26pm

NOBL Minutes 03 11 08

Neighbors of Belknap Lookout:

Meeting Minutes for Tuesday March 11, 2008

Meeting
was called to order by Chair, Pete Stieler at 6:03pm

• Welcome
  to all.

  
  

• Introduction
  of Grand Rapids Police Chief Kevin Belk, Deputy Chief James Farris
  and Captain Pam Carrier.

  
  

• Grand
  Rapids Police Chief Kevin Belk spoke before the board on what is
  important for the police department to focus on for the next few
  years and offered their 4 basic component plan:

  
  

1. Youth
   initiatives: much of the crime today is caused by problem
   youths. After school programs, boy and girls clubs, and places like
   Camp O’Malley are important alternatives and great deterrents
   to criminal activity. However, some neighborhoods are underserved
   and don’t have many after school programs. Curfew violations
   of underage youth are a continuing problem and must be addressed by
   a sustained effort of deterrence.
   

   
   

2. Crime
   prevention: identifying neighborhoods prone to crime and looking
   for patterns of activity in those particular areas so they can be
   addressed early on. Installing cameras in crime-ridden areas might
   help to catch suspects in action. Community policing is also
   important to help curb crime.
   

   
   

3. Staff
   development: offer training and resources necessary so they can
   go out and do their jobs professionally and more effectively.
   

   
   

4. Organizational
   support: Utilizing new hardware and dash-cams to better serve
   the officers on patrol. This includes the dispatching system and
   coordinated support from all staff.

   
   

• Deputy
  Police Chief James Farris offered that he will be implementing
  service areas throughout Grand Rapids: North, West, South, and South
  East. He will get together with the community officers and/or
  Service Area Captains and ask them what the GRPD can do to better
  serve them in their efforts to curb crime and maintain safety.
  

  
  

• Police
  Captain Pam Carrier reassured us that the GRPD will continue to
  work with our community to resolve the various issues and/or
  complaints that may arise. She welcomes our feedback and opinions.
  Because of the cutbacks in the police force, it is important for the
  neighbors in our community to come together and have a working
  relationship with the department. If you know of problems: be they
  possible criminal acts, drug houses, abandoned vehicles, etc., let
  her know so that the issues can be fully addressed.
  

  
  

• Answers
  to questions from the board:

  
  

1. Spectrum
   Health security does not have the authority to enforce the law in
   our neighborhood; only on Spectrum property.

   
   

2. Instead
   of implementing a “citizens arrest,” it is best to call
   the GRPD and let them handle the situation.
   

   
   

3. This
   spring and summer, the GRPD will be more present in the Belknap
   Neighborhood.
   

   
   

4. If
   there is something that both the community and the police department
   can work on in tandem, they will let us know.

   
   

5. Security
   at 4^th of July will go on as scheduled.

   
   

6. Incidents
   are handled by order or priority or importance: shootings
   supersede curfew violators, etc…

   
   

• Traffic
  Safety: Fire department needs to be involved with regards to
  speed bumps or bump-outs. All requests must be routed through
  traffic safety. 60% of the population in the area must also agree
  to the proposed changes.

  
  

• Presentation
  by Sharon Handy, League of Women Voters: try to increase voter
  turnout for the school board election in May. Less than 5% of
  population came to vote for school board representatives during the
  last election. We need to get the word out that the vote is coming
  up… How do we get the word out? By flyer, going door to door?
  WeVoteGR.org, e-mail: slhandy@comcast.net

  
  

• Minutes
  for February were reviewed: motion to accept made by Jessica
  Doane, seconded by Phil McConahy, all in favor… Motion was
  carried.

  
  

• Safety
  Report: Jayne Johnson, Kristi DeKraker.

  
  

• Financial
  Report: tabled until next month.

  
  

• Reminder:
  Public Charrette Meeting to be held on March 18^th. Need
  to pass out flyers and notify the public.

  
  

• Motion
  to adjourn at 7:02pm by Joe Berens, seconded by Jessica Doane,
  all in favor… Motion was carried.