NEARTOWN ASSOCIATION (NTA) MEETING

Cherryhurst Community Center, Tuesday April 24, 2004

Minutes

NTA President Jack Rose opened the meeting at 7:06 p.m. The March meetings were presented by Jack and approved by the attendees.

Dog Park

Laura Mullen told the group that the dog park at Ervan Chew Park was accepted by both the Friends of Ervan Chew Park Board and by a general vote of Richwood Place, Castle Court, and Boulevard Oaks residents. The estimated cost of constructing the fence for the park is $5,200, of which 100% has been raised through donations.

Police Chief Hurtt Meet and Greet Event

Jack described the event to the group and mentioned that Chief Hurtt seemed very friendly and accessible to everyone present. The overriding theme of his remarks centered on budget issues.

Neartown Superneighborhood

Jack has met with Councilman Ada Edwards regarding obtaining additional funding for the area. Ms. Edwards stated that she would pursue the issue and get back with us. She also noted that she is in the process of identifying potential District D candidates to replace her when her term limits are up.

Neartown Historian

Due to the passing of Al Jensen, the position of Neartown Historian is open. Any interested candidates should contact Jack.

SNAP

NTA is still awaiting the status report for the 2004 plan that was submitted to the City. Jason Jeffries from the City will communicate the findings as soon as they are available.

The Peden tree situation has been removed from the 2004 SNAP, as the lot has been sold to a developer. According to Ed Gonzalez, the developer wants to incorporate the tree into the new construction and not remove it.

Gayle Ramsey mentioned that the stand of trees in front of the old Half Price Books location are now under watch by the Parks Department to ensure that any future development at that site does not harm the existing trees.

Blueprint Houston Forum

Robin Holzer will be attending the event to discuss the Regional Transportation Plan and it’s effect on the Neartown area.

Westheimer Street Festival

The event is scheduled for May 1 & 2. The group is attempting to secure a temporary TABC permit to serve alcohol at the event. Neartown has protested to both the City Council and the Police Department. A ruling is expected sometime this evening.

Citizen Letter to NTA

A concerned citizen has written to Jack questioning whether the on-going effort to police “after-hours” clubs will lead to raids of gay bars in Montrose. The letter asked for NTA’s position on this matter. Jack will respond to the letter reaffirming NTA’s stand NOT to discriminate; however, we support HPD’s continued crackdown on illegal activity.

Montrose Museum Management District

State Representative Martha Wong explained her position regarding the failed prior attempt to create a district. She will support a new attempt provided everyone wants it, and preparations are started earlier. The Urban Affairs Committee of the House is going to hold a meeting on May 13^th to discuss management district powers, accountability, and requirements for renewal.

Announcements

PIP meetings are held the third Wednesday of each month.

State Representative Martha Wong encouraged everyone to vote YES on the option for the City of Houston to opt out of the City Pension Funds requirements.

A fundraising effort is underway for Lamar Park. They are attempting to raise $150,000 to restore the area. Additional information can be found at www.hydeparkunited.org .

The meeting was adjourned at 8:05 p.m.

NTA Secretary, Laura A Mullen