Dec 2, 2013 - EEAC Agenda

EAST END AREA COUNCIL - Dec. 2, 2013 Call to Order – Jackie Weist Secretary’s Report – Barb Rider Treasurer’s Report – Jeff Stewart Budgeted funds: $1000 for 3E’s business/ entertainment district $1500 for sign installation, landscaping, choir pots $600 for 5 GED scholarship to residents at the East End Ed Center $1000 to the Teaching Garden at REA (Sam and the CGC) $500 to LeBlond programs and/or their Foundation $200 for emergency school supplies REA. $200 for website NOT NSP-eligible: $600 for Honor Roll programs/ breakfasts at REA. $300 for Meet & Greet and Volunteer Recognition events. Police Report – Officer Love LeBlond Report – Alayne Kazin Riverview East Academy – Principal Charlene Myers NSP/DAAP Report – Melisse May City Liaison – Laurie Keleher: New Water Works wall projects Community Relations – Sandy Hoover: Volunteer Recognition Report OLD BUSINESS: • NextDoor - Did we get enough people to sign up? • Sam’s Garden at REA - Volunteers? • Public Allies project (Danny Fadeley) ideas: Connectivity, Tunnel lights, Clearing views, Substandard housing • Blighted houses reported to the City and the Port Authority: at Kellogg/Congress, 4355 & 4377 Riverside, Airport/Eastern • Fundraiser - Need volunteer to lead. A food truck/picnic has been suggested, along the river, perhaps at Schmidt. • Website report from MaryBeth Wilker and Dennis Camp. NEW BUSINESS: • Map of proposed EE boundaries. Plus surveys to fill out. • Election of Officers followed by swearing in – Jane Sites OTHER? ADJOURNMENT

Nov 4, 2013 -EEAC Minutes

EEAC MINUTES – Monday, November 4, 2013 Call to Order – Jackie Weist, president The meeting was called to order at 7:01 pm at the LeBlond RecPlex. There were 25 people in attendance, including 18 residents. Jackie thanked Vergie Mullis and Nick Motz for their help with the streetside flower pots. She introduced State Rep Peter Stautberg, who was visiting. Secretary’s Report – Barb Rider (absent) Copies of the Oct 7, 2013 minutes were circulated; there were no corrections. In Barb’s absence, Melisse May was appointed to take minutes. Contact: barb1rider@aol.com Treasurer’s Report – Jeff Stewart (absent) Financial reports for October were made available. We have $7657.06 in checking, $3210.51 in savings and $1410.02 in the flood/emergency fund. Disbursements were made to Constant Contact for the newsletter ($168) and to Wimberg ($64.04) for mowing by the Kemper sign. Contact: jstewart@gfrlease.com Police Report – Officer Germaine Love (absent) • Detective Kelly McBeth reported the District 2 East End monthly crime report for Officer Germaine Love. The report is typical for the East End with mostly thefts. Crime stats are down year-to-date over last year, with the exception of assaults (which doesn’t follow trends). She wishes all other neighborhoods had stats this good. • Police are improving lighting for security cameras along Schmidt Field. • Jackie asked about the use of canines to detect drugs. Det. McBeth said the CPD uses dogs, but they have to be used according to very specific guidelines. The Captain is closely monitoring the drug situation in the EE; we will be hearing more about that. • Peniel Church reported a break-in today. This information was unknown to Det. McBeth. Contact: 979-4480 or germaine.love@cincinnati-oh.gov LeBlond Recreation Center – Alayne Kazin, Director • Alayne provided an update on the RecPlex. On Oct 22, the Hometown Huddle built a new playground. The parking lot has doubled in size. The dedication for the Jack Twyman outdoor basketball courts is tomorrow at 2:00 and all are invited. • Materials on the RecPlex and membership benefits were distributed. Contact: www.cincyrec.org/dr Riverview East Academy – Charlene Myers, principal • Charlene reported we are close to getting full agreement to establish a school health center. Work is underway to identify the site within the school, and then CPS will renovate the space with the grant from Interact for Health. • Patrick Ormond mentioned that the EEAC had previously assigned a share of stock to the EE Health Center (provided by Time Warner). The estimated value is $250,000. Patrick will find out the status of the building and whether we still have a stake in it. • Charlene said that the Christine Macauley Clinic on Eastern Ave is serving adults in our area. Contact: myersch@cpsboe.k12.oh.us Guest Speakers – Lauren Campbell, Environmental Ohio Community Engagement Lauren discussed the issue of global warming and related events, including flooding. Carbon is the largest contributor to global warming. Her organization is working with the EPA to address the problem and is seeking public support for these efforts. She asked for any interested parties to contact her to get involved. There will be a rally in Columbus on Nov. 16. Contact: 765-624-8456 Danny Fadeley, Public Allies Danny represented a group of 10 from Public Allies (an AmeriCorps program) doing a year of service and has chosen the East End. They are looking to identify a project and have been talking to community members for ideas. The idea needs to be submitted by mid-December. The organization has limited funds, so would look for partners to support the project. Contact: ? City Liaison – Laurie Keleher (absent) No report. Contact: keleher.eastend@gmail.com Community Relations Report - Sandy Hoover (absent) Jackie reported for Sandy that there is a volunteer recognition event on Nov 19th at Adenine on Riverside at 7:00. Contact: sandyhoover216@aol.com NSP Report - Melisse May • Melisse reported that we will be getting NSP funds this year and will have more information after the training on Nov. 5. • Sam Dunlap is looking for volunteers to continue the work he has started with the school garden. Please contact Sam or Melisse if you are interested. • The DAAP Community Planning School will provide a studio in conjunction with the Schools of Horticulture and Architecture to flesh out options on the vision for the East End Garden District that were shared at the Oct EEAC meeting and several other events. Contact: may.melisse@gmail.com 3East Report - Nick Motz (absent) No report. Contact: nick@motz.com President’s Report – Jackie Weist • Jackie thanked all the volunteers who helped with the Fall Clean-up on Oct 26. • The Board is still interested in creating a fundraising and neighborhood event that would be family oriented. The Board felt that it should be held along the river. One suggestion was to have a food truck available. This event needs a chair. Contact: jweist@fuse.net Nominating Comm – Jane Sites Current slate for 2014-15 is VP: Michael Bolan, Sec: Jackie Weist, Treasurer: Jeff Stewart, NSP Rep: Barb Rider. At this time, there is no one willing to accept the position for President. Without a president, the EEAC may be forced to disband or merge with Columbia Tusculum. Bob Little suggested that the President position be shared by four people with each managing the position for three months each. Jackie asked for nominations from the floor. Betty Burns nominated Patrick Ormond, and he stated that he is not willing to let the organization go down. There was no vote. Betty said that we have been in this position before; someone has always come forward by December. Anyone willing to serve should contact Jane Sites. Jackie thanked Jane for her work on the nominating committee. Contact: jane.sites@cchmc.org New Business - Jackie • Barb Rider submitted to the Board proposed guidelines for use of the EEAC message sign, allowing non-profits in the EE to use the sign when there is no need for EEAC messaging and when the message is of broad interest to East End residents. There were no objections to this proposal. • The East End now officially extends to the tennis courts just east of the Montgomery Inn Boat House. This is now represented on city maps. • The Cincinnati Planning Commission has postponed any decision on the barge noise/dust issues along Riverside just east of the Friendship park. The next meeting will be in February. • The Board has recommended that we have a website. Mary Beth Wilker will manage it with Jackie’s help in creating content. Dennis Camp volunteered to host the website for free and requested suggestions for domain names. He is willing to work with Mary Beth to create the website. There was a discussion on inclusion of ads; Dennis said that is usually to cover the cost of the website, and he is willing to do that for no cost. Jackie will have Mary Beth contact Dennis. The website will be in addition to the newsletter, which is mandated by the City. Meeting attendees were supportive of the establish-ment of a website. Proposed Budget – Jackie • $600 Riverview East Academy – Honors Breakfasts and Emergency School Supplies • $600 *East End Education Center – 5 scholarships for EE residents to take the GED • $1000 *3-E Business/Entertainment District • $1000 *Installation/landscaping for the EE sign at Salem. Landscaping for sign at Delta. • $800 *Teaching Garden at Riverview East Academy • $500 *LeBlond support and/or its Foundation • $200 *Newsletter and website set-up • $300 Meet & Greets, including Volunteer Recognition *Possible funding through NSP There were no other suggestions for budget items. Some monies will come from NSP which are expected to be $5000. Questions were raised on the status of the Business Association. Jackie will request a represen-tative come to the next EEAC meeting to report, along with Mike Wagner or a rep from NSBDU. Announcements Vergie Mullis mentioned that we need one more person to sign up for Nextdoor (online neighborhood discussion board). Melisse will send invitations to those with emails on the sign-in sheet. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 8:23 pm. Next Meeting: Monday Dec 2, 2013 at 7 pm at LeBlond RecPlex NOTE: You can read EEAC minutes and sign up to have monthly newsletters emailed to you at http://cincyeastender.blogspot.com

Oct 7 2013 EEAC Mtg Minutes

EEAC MINUTES – Monday, October 7, 2013 Call to Order Jackie Weist called the meeting to order at 7:01 pm at the LeBlond Rec Center. There were 26 people in attendance (only 16 signed), including 11 residents. Contact: jweist@fuse.net Secretary’s Report – Barb Rider Copies of the Sept 9, 2013 minutes were circulated. No edits were suggested, so the minutes were filed as written. Contact: barb1rider@aol.com Treasurer’s Report – Jeff Stewart (absent) Financial reports for September were made available. Total liabilities & equity are $23,054.16. Three disbursements were made: 2$63.90 to Wimberg Landscaping for mowing; $639 for the East End sign at Delta (NSP funds) and $75.51 to reimburse Jackie for paying for 3 Riverview East Academy students’ school supplies. Contact: jstewart@gfrlease.com Police Report - Officer Germaine Love • Captain Butler was intending to come to the meeting, but could not make it. • There were 11 reported offenses in the East End from Sept 7-Oct 3, including 2 thefts from auto, 1 theft of a motorcycle on Setchell St, 1 theft of a license plate, 2 thefts from Inner Circle – diamond rings & a bicycle, 1 theft from Riverview East Academy (teacher’s cell phone), shoplifting from UDF, a UPS package taken from a Walworth porch (worth several $K – an arrest was made for trespassing). Officer Love suggested that packages NOT be delivered to your home, if you’re not going to be there to receive delivery. • Jackie asked what we can do to get rid of crack houses. Officer Love said the BCS group deals with 14 neighborhoods, and they are aware of problems here and probably know who the players are. She is not aware when arrests will come to fruition. This is a problem in every neighborhood, and resources are spread thin. Jackie asked to go with her to show her the suspected sites. • Barbara Grace asked if there was any new information on 2 young women panhandling (i.e. during St. Rose’s mass and at LeBlonde). If anyone sees them, call the police for a trespassing charge. Contact: Officer Germaine Love 979-4480 or germaine.love@cincinnati-oh.gov LeBlond Recreation Center – Katie Lear • The multisports court surface was poured today. LeBlonde will be closed Oct 21-22 for work by the Hometown Huddle with about 30 Bengal players building a new playground. The expanded parking lot is being finished now. • There are updated fall schedules (fitness & activities). Contact: www.cincyrec.org/dr Riverview East Academy – Charlene Myers, principal Dr. Pat White and her daughter, Dr. Suzie White, spoke about the “Leadership Scholars” program. Jrs and Srs teach non-cognitive skills (i.e. meditation, gratitude, college planning) to students in Gr. 7-8. Dr. White is also leading an 8-week program for 300 REA families, that will include childcare, dinner, and a graduation ceremony to be held at Xavier University. Charlene said that students and parents are excited about the programs. Brochures were distributed. Charlene showed the new planner given to students and parents to keep them organized. myersch@cpsboe.k12.oh.us Guest Speaker – Paul Burch, Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County Paul, the library circulation services manager, spoke in support of Issue 1 on the November 5 ballot (10 yr renewal…revenues will account for 1/3 of the library budget). Library patrons can stream movies, download books on Kindle, get resume help, download music, etc. Our library has the #3 geneology dept, and is the 7th busiest library (based on circulation) in the US. 88% of Hamilton County households have a library card. Monfort Hghts, Sharonville and North Central branches are now open on Sundays, along with the downtown branch. If the renewal fails, there will be a $17million shortfall, causing staff layoffs, branch closings, and cutback on hours. Sally O’Callaghan, CPS School Bd. candidate Sally taught for 10 years in CPS; previously in Cleveland, before staying home with her 4 children. She is running for election because of concern for neighborhood schools. She supports universal pre-school, adding transitional classrooms to address mobility (“churn”), expanding community learning centers in schools, ending camping out to sign-up for popular alternative schools, and raising expectations. Cameron Ross, City Planning Commission, absent Was to bring maps defining the borders of East End, CT, and Linwood NSP Report - Melisse May Expenses using last year’s NSP funds have been submitted: the Delta/Kellogg EE sign and support, and a stipend for the DAAP intern who put together options for the future of the Garden District. The options were available on large boards for all to review. Melisse pointed out that having a vision and options for the future helps the community. Councilmember Quinlivan’s aide said that there will be an announcement tomorrow that all 52 neighborhoods will get $5000 in NSP funds this year. Contacts: may.melisse@gmail.com Community Relations Report - Sandy Hoover, chair There will be another Meet & Greet at Swampwater Grill (3742 Kellogg Ave) on Tuesday, Oct 15, beginning at 6:00PM, this time hosted by Linwood. Contact: sandyhoover216@aol.com 3East Report - Nick Motz (absent, no report) Budget – Jackie called for ideas; there were none. Nominating Comm If interested in running for an EEAC office for 2014-15, contact Barbara Grace. She is working with Jane Sites and Ruth Coon to create a slate of nominees to be announced at the November meeting. Contact: Barbara Grace 321-2099 Old Business - Jackie • Gail Silver reported that the gathering last week to highlight Michael’s ‘green’ house and support mayoral candidate Roxanne Qualls was very successful. She provided historical information on the house and Capt Strader (this will also go in the EEAC newsletter). • Pendleton is available for rent. • Don’t forget to use the Ohio River app: Recr8OhioRiver for info on river conditions, weather, etc. New Business - Jackie • Michelle & Kevin Perkins are moving to KY. They have been active members of the EEAC, and we wish them well. • There will be an East End clean up on “Make a Difference Day” – Saturday, Oct 26. Volunteers should meet at 9AM at REA; Charlene will provide student volunteers. • Patrick Ormond spoke in support of David Mann, candidate for City Council. David spoke – he was previously on City Council for 18 yrs, served as mayor for 3 terms, and in Congress for 2 years. He has practiced law with his son for the past 19 years; all 9 children and grandchildren live in City. David is concerned about drug use; infant mortality rates; poverty, bond rating (because of pension funding), streetcars, and sale of the parking system. • Councilmember Quinlivan’s aide reported that she is working on UC fire safety. A website is now available with landlords’ and fire inspection status. It will be expanded into other neighborhoods and for all renters. • Bob Little suggested that the EE sign should have the message: “Shop & dine locally” • Gail suggested that people attend the City Council and mayoral debates. • Carol Grasha spoke about mercury-contaminated equipment removed in June from the MSD facility at Wilmer & Kellogg and taken to Rumpke via Riverside Dr, as reported in a Sept 28 Enquirer article. Her concern is if the mercury spilled onto EE streets. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 8:02 pm. Next Meeting: Monday Nov 5, 2013 at 7 pm NOTE: You can read EEAC minutes and sign up to have monthly newsletters emailed to you at http://cincyeastender.blogspot.com

Sept 7, 2013 EEAC Mtg Minutes

EEAC MINUTES – Monday, September 9, 2013 Call to Order Jackie Weist called the meeting to order at 7:01 pm at the LeBlond Rec Center. There were 19 people in attendance, including 11 residents. Contact: jweist@fuse.net Secretary’s Report – Barb Rider Copies of the Aug 5, 2013 minutes were circulated. No edits were suggested, so the minutes were filed as written. Contact: barb1rider@aol.com Treasurer’s Report – Jeff Stewart Three disbursements were made: $63.90 to Wimberg Landscaping for mowing; $700 (last year’s NSP funds) to Joe Sandman, DAAP for consulting on neighborhood planning; and $804.56 to Riverview East Academy for their garden. Jackie will be reimbursed for school supplies she purchased for a REA family, at the request of the principal. Contact: jstewart@gfrlease.com Police Report - Detectives McBeth & Stephanie Belleman • We have the same problems as other places in the city (e.g. the year-to-date larceny rate is up 14%). Det. McBeth is impressed that our year-to-date burglarly and B&Es are down 66%; this is rare, and a statistic other neighborhoods would love to have. • During the last 28 days there have been 13 total crimes, including 6 thefts from auto. • A family conflict at a Strader home during the BBQ resulted in a felonious assault arrest. • Alayne reported that batteries & radiators have been taken from construction vehicles parked at LeBlond. Det. McBeth said she has seen children playing on vehicles, and wishes the construction company would do more to secure their property. There has been vandalism, where many outside areas (including rose bushes) were sprayed with pink paint. Alayne asked for increased police patrol at LeBlond. • Sandy said there were police officers in her back yard in the 1800 block of Riverside with guns drawn on a recent Tuesday night. Det. McBeth will check it out. • Gail Silver requested extra police patrols during an Oct 2 fundraiser on Strader. • Tad Schroeder thanked Det. McBeth for the new “no engine brake” signs. • Jane Sites called about water spouts coming from the sewers during heavy rain in the lot at Collins & Riverside. Det. McBeth will ask why the lot is not blocked off to traffic. Call the city hotline at 591-6000 with complaints of any kind. Contact: Officer Germaine Love 979-4480 or germaine.love@cincinnati-oh.gov Riverview East Academy – Charlene Myers, principal Charlene Meyers reported that the enrollment of the school has increased from 456 to 596. She turned over money from selling EEAC bumper stickers. Graduation will be at Inner Circle. CPS schools will be open on Saturday, Sept 28 for the community to use. The REA resource coordinator hasn’t been replaced yet; the YWCA will be hiring. myersch@cpsboe.k12.oh.us Guest Speaker – Clarence Taylor, Walnut Hills Community Council president Speaking on behalf of Neighborhood Health Care (which provides services in several different communities), Clarence said that the East End Health Center at 4020 Eastern is now open on Tues (8:30-noon) & Thurs (1-5:30pm) for OB/GYN services only. Possibly there could be an urgent care in the future. There is a need to advertise more & work through schools; REA is working to get health services (they recently added an RN). NHC is talking to an organization in KY to fully staff the centers here; they are challenged by a lack of available doctors. Michael asked about the impact of ObamaCare (the Affordable Care Act); Clarence said that is unknown at this point. There is a sliding fee scale based on income; they take insurance and cash. Patients can live anywhere. Contact: 559-5549 (NHC call center) LeBlond Recreation Center – Alayne Kazin • Alayne showed a plan for the outside renovation now in progress. 150 PNC volunteers renovated the ballfield recently; Jeff represented EEAC in a ribbon cutting. The multiple sports court has been asphalted. On Oct 22nd, the Hometown Huddle with 300 volun-teers will build a new playground, pathways & landscaping. Next year, the Dept. of Transportation will provide a bike trail; a .6 mile walking trail will join up to it. • Fall programming includes senior stretch, strength training, and spinning. Membership is $10 for those over 50; $25 for younger adults. Contact: www.cincyrec.org/dr NSP + DAAP + KCB Report - Melisse May (absent); Michael Bolan, VP • Jackie reported that we do not yet know if we’ll get NSP funds in the future. • Michael Bolan said that $700 from a LISC grant was used to get concepts of a study area (REA to river to the RR to ball fields). The plans proposed by a team from UC’s DAAP program were revealed on Aug 22; 15 people attended to provide comments. The DAAP team is now refining those comments, and will present revised plans in the future. Michael suggests that 4 areas should be targeted first: parking (signage, etc), Babb Alley improvements, lighting, and river amenities (seating, vegetative clearing). Jackie added that we all know there is lots of potential in the East End. • KCB - Michael will help apply for an EPA grant for pickup and disposal of old tires – that will be main thrust of spring cleanup. George Mullis reported that a daybed needs to be picked up at Redmond & Strader. There will be no official fall cleanup, but it would be appreciated if everyone could clean up the area near where they live. Contacts: may.melisse@gmail.com and michaelbolan@yahoo.com Community Relations Report - Sandy Hoover, chair There will be a Meet & Greet at Swampwater Grill (3742 Kellogg Ave) on Sept 17, beginning at 6:30PM. Pay as you go for the food & drink you want (there was a Groupon offering for Swampwater Grill today). Contact: sandyhoover216@aol.com 3East Report - Nick Motz (absent, no report) Old Business • Patrick Ormond was asked to give an update on a fundraiser for the EEAC. He talked about very preliminary plans for a possible East End reunion in the spring (400-500 people with 2-3 bands). Bryan Phillips said there’s a reunion every year (“East End Day”) the day before Father’s Day at Schmidt Field. Another reunion in Newtown (used to be at Lunken) is held annually and is well attended. • Nominating Committee – Jane Sites, Barbara Grace, Ruth Coon - provided a box for comments on how to pull the neighborhood together or to give nominations for EEAC bd. members. The slate will be announced Nov. 4; they are focusing on diversity, adding long-time residents and Pendleton Bd. members. Ruth also hopes to have a historian. • Jackie announced that the Walworth home remodeling request was approved. New Business • Gail Silver discussed a fundraiser for Roxanne Qualls on Wed, Oct 2 5:30-7:00 at Michael Bolan’s “green” home on Strader. It is being hosted by Jackie, Melisse & Gail (as individuals, not as EEAC members). Reservations and to help: Gail, 475-0002. • Ruth Coon said the traffic was “the worst she’s ever seen” on Riverfest Night; traffic was backed up until 2:30AM, the center lane near the Rookwood overpass was used as a high speed lane, and drivers parked in the bike lane. • Jackie said budget suggestions are needed next month. EEAC, city and KCB priorities include safe communities. • Jackie reported on a recent KCB meeting she attended Thursday, Sept 5. • The web-based communication device, Nextdoor.com, is supported by police. Clarence said the first 10 people in a neighborhood to sign up are the administrators. • Diedre Bullock is representing the garden area, on behalf of Joe Corcoran, who will not be attending meetings. The temporary orange fence and no trespassing signs were put up to address drinking, litter from Eli’s, in addition to any liability issues. Better fencing will be installed. The fence will be taken down for special events. Eli has not responded to email from Joe or Diedre, who want to bridge differences. Turkeys will be sold again this year. • Brochures on Hamilton County Property Improvement Program are available. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 8:09 pm. Next Meeting: Monday Oct 7, 2013 at 7 pm NOTE: You can read EEAC minutes and sign up to have monthly newsletters emailed to you at http://cincyeastender.blogspot.com

Aug 5, 2013 EEAC Mtg Minutes

EEAC MINUTES – Monday, August 5, 2013 Call to Order Jackie Weist called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm at the LeBlond Rec Center. Contact: jweist@fuse.net Secretary’s Report Copies of the July 2013 minutes were circulated. No edits were suggested, so the minutes were filed as written. Barb was unable to attend the meeting; Jackie appointed Michael Bolan to take the August meeting minutes in Barb’s absence. Contact: barb1rider@aol.com Police Report - Officer Love • 21 incidences of crime were reported in the East End in July. The offenses included 7 property crimes from autos, 3 from UDF (2 gas pump drive-offs), and 3 breaking and entry. • The EEAC bank account was compromised and funds were fraudulently transferred from the EEAC account. A fraud investigation is under way; however, the bank is in the process of returning the illegally transferred funds to a new EEAC bank account. Just before the occurrence of the bank fraud, an uncashed check drawn on the EEAC account, along with cash, was stolen from the home of Joe Corcoran on Strader Ave. Officer Love recommended that a crime report be filed on this matter. • Another breach to the vacant Site Gas Station was reported, as well as its overgrown vegetation. Contact: Officer Germaine Love 979-4480 President’s report – Jackie Weist • An additional $250 was received for the efforts of the Flying Pig volunteers. • Jackie noted the EE participation in this year’s National Night Out at the Owl’s Nest Park in O’Bryonville. • A request to organize a Nominating Committee for the 2014 EEAC Board was made. Both Ruth Coon and Barbara Grace indicated their interest. (Update: Jane Sites later agreed to serve) Treasurer’s Report – Jeff Stewart Jeff reported on disbursements totaling $1650 to Wimberg for grass cutting, to Rumpke for port-o-lets, and to ABC for the sign at Delta. Contact: jstewart@gfrlease.com Leblond Recreation Center – Alayne Kazin Alayne noted the progress of the renovation which will double the parking spaces, add a new swing, provide raised beds for gardening, and improve views of the river. Eighty volunteers from PNC bank are expected to lend their hand to renovate the ball field. Contact: www.cincyrec.org/dr Riverview East Academy – Charlene Myers, principal Charlene Meyers reported that the enrollment of the school will increase from 456 last year to 556 this coming year. Math scores remain weak but adjustments have been made to improve student skills. There is an effort underway for a health care clinic at the school to foster a health care curriculum for students interested in pursuing a career in the field of health. The school is looking for a larger place in the East End area to house 750+ attendees for its 2014 graduation exercises and is open to suggestions. Contact: myersch@cpsboe.k12.oh.us City Liaison Report – Laurie Keleher, chair • Laurie took comments and questions regarding the bike facility along Riverside Drive. She asked for volunteers to count bicycle riders along Riverside for an ongoing study of Cincinnati bicycle ridership. • Attention was drawn to the broken sidewalk at the Pendleton that experienced heavy truck traffic during the Duke gas line project and the Riverside Drive resurfacing. • At this point of the meeting, a report was received that the noted American Queen riverboat was passing by the East End! • It was again reported that the abandoned Site gas station on Riverside Drive continues to be non-compliant with the city’s weed ordinance. Contact: keleher.eastend@gmail.com Community Relations Report – Melisse May, chair. The University of Cincinnati DAAP students have prepared a vision for a study area bounded by the school, the river, the RR tracks and the Schmidt ball fields. Their study was partially funded by LISP, but mainly from the generosity of UC and its students. Consideration by neighborhood residents is sought prior to developing a plan. Concept drawings will be posted for public viewing along with an explanation of their ideas. This community feedback is scheduled for Wednesday August 21 at Riverview East Academy at 7PM, within easy walking distance of the study area. The concept to be presented includes parking options, a river view amenity, lighting/walkway improvements, and a rehab of Babb Ally. Contact: may.melisse@gmail.com Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 8:09 pm. Next Meeting: Monday Sept 9, 2013 7 pm NOTE: You can read EEAC minutes and sign up to have monthly newsletters emailed to you at http://cincyeastender.blogspot.com

July 1, 2013 EEAC Mtg Minutes

EEAC MINUTES – Monday July 1, 2013 Call to Order – Jackie Weist, EEAC President Jackie called the meeting to order at 7:03 pm at the LeBlond Rec Center. There were 24 in attendance (including 15 residents). Contact: jweist@fuse.net “Special Bow” to Joe Corcoran – Joe has received an award from the Garden Club of America for his work over the last 13-20 years on the Veteran Gardens on Strader. He received thanks and a round of applause, and showed the award. He introduced Deidre Bullock as a “new face in the garden”, and explained that she would be coordinating activities (in the past, she has helped with turkey frying during holidays, etc). There will be a focus on family-friendliness (e.g. movies on Friday nites). The BBQ is Sat., Aug 10, with some new vendors. Jackie reminded Deidra that July 15 is the deadline for the next EEAC newsletter. Contact: capt_lu@yahoo.com Secretary Report – Barb Rider The June 3, 2013 minutes were distributed. Betty Burns pointed out 2 mistakes regarding the bike facility/parking concerns, which were corrected for the record. Contact: barb1rider@aol.com Treasurer’s Report – Jeff Stewart (absent) There was no treasurer’s report. Jackie said that she was reimbursed for granola bars, water, plants, and dirt used on Keep Cincinnati Beautiful day. Contact: jstewart@gfrlease.com Police Report –Officer Germaine Love • There are 14 reported offenses for June. Included were 6 thefts from autos (jewelry, purses, etc), 3 petty thefts from UDF, theft from Stone Brothers ($4000), theft on 4340 Kellogg, and a B&E at DeeJay’s (formerly Adonis; they are applying for a liquor and dance hall license, and have held some events without permission; police are objecting to their requests). • National Night Out is Tuesday, Aug 6 6-9pm at Owl’s Nest Park in O’Bryonville. Ruth Coon & Vergie Mullis brought prizes; Ruth has another 1000 at home. Jackie reported that Jeff also has donations. Officer Love will provide the approximate number of expected participants. • Jane Sites asked about the progress on “No Engine Braking” signs to be installed on Riverside near Collins. Officer Love has contacted John Childress of the city, who will provide the signs despite the fact that the pilot program is over. • Jackie reported that KCB has installed a camera on Hoff to prevent dumping/littering. • Jane asked about reported development on Hoff. • Ruth reported that someone may be staying in the abandoned building at 1542 Riverside by Kemper. Officer Love will check on it. The City owns the building. Contact: germaine.love@cincinnati.oh.gov 979-4480. Guest: Ann Herzner, Councilwoman Laure Quinlivan’s aide – Ann has deep in-law roots with the East End. She has been on Councilwoman Quinlivan’s staff for 4 months. She reviewed Quinlivan’s main initiatives: • A mobile food vendor ordinance has been passed, and there was a media event in the EE Garden District about this a few weeks ago. It is not difficult for a neighborhood to get a dedicated zone for food trucks. They can be used to sell locally grown produce. • City council election in November is the first to elect council members to four (not two) year terms. • After a Jan 1 fire killed 2 UC students, Quinlivan worked to get tougher fire laws. Landlords now can volunteer to have a fire inspection, and then get a certificate/ stamp/sticker if passed. Unsafe housing can be reported to the city; an inspector will come out for $35. There will be a press conference tomorrow about this. • Pat Ormond asked about the streetcar. Ann said that a recent city council vote to continue the project passed 5-4. Pat suggested that property owners adjacent to the streetcar route, not all city residents, support streetcar maintenance. He made a motion (seconded) that the EEAC supports having property owners along the streetcar route pay a fee, and that a letter to this effect be sent to all 9 council members and the mayor. A hand vote was taken: 7 yes. 0 no. 7 abstain. Jackie will write the letter. LeBlond Report - Alayne Kazin, Director • It’s busy at LeBlond - there are 40 campers & 40 staff members in & out on a daily basis. • Aug 23 is PNC Volunteer Day, and 65 to 75 employees will be landscaping LeBlond, painting interior spaces, and renovating the ballfield (which will not be moved, as originally hoped, because the former school property could not be procured by the city) • On Mon, Aug 26, work on expanding the parking lot will begin. • A Park Board arborist inspected the large sycamore tree on the LeBlond property, and concluded it is rotten inside and needs to come down for safety reasons. Jane and Michael Bolan objected (“an icon”…”children play near it”, etc). A suggestion was made to procure another opinion. Contact: www.cincyrec.org/dr Riverview East Academy – Charlene Myers, principal (absent) No report. Contact: myersch@cpsboe.k12.oh.us NSP Budget and DAAP East End Study – Melisse May We have received approval for our funding ($2500), and are spending it: letters & lighting for neighborhood sign; DAAP students’ project; sign landscaping. Contacts: May.melisse@gmail.com City Liaison - Laurie Keleher Paving of Riverside, following installation of the new gaslines, will begin within a month. Contact: keleher.eastend@gmail.com Community Relations – Sandy Hoover (absent) Jackie reported that the next Meet N Greet is at the Sandbar (4 Seasons Marina) on Tuesday, July 16 at 6:30; Linwood and Columbia Tusculum will join us. Contact: shoover216@aol.com 3E Business Committee– Nick Motz (absent) No report. Old Business - Jackie • There was a great letter to the Enquirer written by Barbara Lichtenstein, EEAC business owner, reacting to a letter from a Blue Ash resident recommending the closure of Alms Park to save money for the city of Cincinnati. • Barbara also sent a letter to the EEAC objecting to the new development on Brown St. Jackie reported that we don’t have a coordinated report yet; there was discussion on when/how a coordinated report is received. Laurie will check the status of all the coordinated reports that we have not received. • Patrick, 10 yr former EEAC president “with a lifetime membership” (per Jackie), reported on his history with the East End in the 1970s and 80s (including dealing with benzene railcars on Wilmer Ave; recruiting over 300 people to protest at City Hall, and having 100 people at the next EEAC meeting). Jack Feistel (?) gave him advice. Pat said it worked well to have fun events at which problems and the EEAC could be introduced (e.g. Monte Carlo Nights at Carnegie Center, a festival at Schmidt Field with hot air balloons). This invigorated the organization, which welcomed new residents (e.g. Betty Burns) to become involved. There was a focus on youth involvement; racial incidents were addressed. EEAC = representing businesses and residents. Pat suggested having a written mission statement (note: the EEAC has one); not taking on problems alone (involve the whole board and community); if handing out brochures, include an EE business coupon. Other ideas were to have a Riverfest party, and to go door-to-door to every house (pay a college student) with a questionnaire, saying: “Hello neighbor, we’d like to re-introduce ourselves.” Time spent on the EEAC were the best and worst years of his life. He served on the city-sponsored Community Business Development Council for years and helped create Community-Oriented Policing (350 students went to a Reds game with police officers). Pat recommended getting a reporter on our side. Ruth said that we need absentee landlords to take responsibility; Patrick said that council presidents have lots of power, and could change situations like this. New Business - Jackie • KCB - Jackie attended a meeting for District 2 neighborhoods. She reported issues with overgrown properties to the litter patrol; since then, the old school property has been mowed. She also reported the uncut grass along the new bike facility. Betty said that the west sidewalk of Collins is so overgrown that pedestrians must use the street; Jackie will call about this. Bryan asked about dumping on the far eastern area of Hoff. Jackie asked him to call her about where a 2nd camera could go. Vergie reported tall grass on Kellogg just past Delta near the ballfields. Barbara Grace reported that when a large tree fell near Brown St, all the little pieces were left behind. She also would like bus stops cleaned up. Jackie reported that Alicia Kravitz of KCB suggested that we identify 3-5 spots for clean-up this fall. KCB will supply heavy equipment. Jackie would like input on the worst areas. • Christian Babani (BrewRiver GastroPub) and Jason Gipson (Fuel) have written the EEAC about loss of parking due to the upcoming bike facility. The EEAC Board supports them getting them parking, while maintaining support for the bike facility. Betty reiterated that the small EE group of property & business owners that met with Vice-Mayor Roxanne Qualls is not against the bike facility. Michael Moore of the city transportation department didn’t respond to requests from Betty, so she, Christian, a Verdin Bell rep, and Rev. Henson (Cornerstone Pentecostal Church) met with Qualls to present possible parking solutions. Ruth said businesses should not come into the EE and change pre-existing neighborhood plans. Christian explained his business plan and importance to the neighborhood. Betty said that despite the city adding some pocket parking, there are still 49 parking places not recovered near BrewRiver. Laurie explained that her letter to Qualls said the EEAC remains in support of the bike facility. Christian explained that the group would like any city-owned property in the EE to be designated for parking. Barbara Grace said she’s made adjustments whenever EE parking regulations changed in the more than 60 years she’s lived here. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 8:55 PM. NOTE: You can read EEAC minutes and sign up to have monthly newsletters emailed to you at http://cincyeastender.blogspot.com

EEAC Minutes June 3, 2013

EEAC MINUTES – Monday June 3, 2013 Call to Order – Jackie Weist, EEAC President Jackie called the meeting to order at 7:02 pm at the LeBlond Rec Center. There were 25 in attendance (including 19 residents). Contact: jweist@fuse.net Secretary Report – Barb Rider The May 6, 2013 minutes were distributed. Contact: barb1rider@aol.com Treasurer’s Report – Sandy Hoover (in Jeff Stewart’s absence) The May report was distributed. There is a total of $26,247.59 in liabilities and equity, as of May 22. A check for $30 was written for National Nite Out (Aug 6). Contact: jstewart@gfrlease.com Police Report –Officer Germaine Love (accompanied by Officer Kelley MacBeth). • There are 9 reported offenses for May: 3 thefts from autos, a gas drive-off from UDF, 2 robberies (TV, computer, money, knife, jewelry), and a B&E at Botanics. • Officer Love spoke to a firm on Minnesota Ave. that has allegedly been dumping tires in the EE; although they denied wrong-doing, she feels she put them on notice to no longer dump tires. • National Night Out is Aug 6. We have paid for our booth, and are looking for prizes and volunteers to work. • Bryan Phillips said the sign at the top at Audobon about turning left is faded. Officer Love will report this. • “No Engine Braking Signs” will be installed on both east & west-bound Riverside near Collins. • Jackie read emails to/from Capt. Paul Broxterman, who is being transferred downtown. He said that District 2 has the lowest crime rate in all of Cincinnati. Capt. Jeff Butler, new District 2 head, will come to a future EEAC meeting. • There were questions about a young woman walking up and down street begging for necessities (e.g. diapers), sometimes accompanied by a dog. Some think she may have taken a wallet from a car at LeBlond. Officer Love said to call the non-emergency number 765-1212 to connect her with social services, instead of enabling her. She has pan-handled downtown, at St. Rose’s, and at LeBlond (among other places) Contact: Officer Germaine Love - 979-4480. Guests: • Kate Christoff, Councilwoman Yvette Simpson’s aide (not present) • Ann Herzner, Councilwoman Laure Quinlivan’s aide (not present) • Michael Heckman, neighborhood campaigner for Mike Muroski (city council candidate) Candidate Moroski taught at Moeller and Purcell Marion, and is in his first political campaign. Michael is supporting him because he does not waiver from his positions. Literature and contact cards were left. All are encouraged to contact Michael to share what we love about the East End. Contact: neighbors@mikemoroski.com LeBlond Report - Alayne Kazin, Director • Hours change for summer (7AM-6PM). • The pool opened today. Despite a cool day, 10 neighborhood children came to swim. • Day camp starts this week. There are 21 day campers (mostly children of commuters to downtown). Fees of $950/summer includes 6 field trips. 7AM-6PM. Also there are 15 students w. developmental delays being served in another program this summer, mostly paid by Cinti Public Schools. • LeBlond received a request for a liquor license permit for Jefferson Social at 101 E. Freedom Ln. (on the Banks). They have no objections, nor did anyone in attendance. • The renovation brochure was re-distributed. Because of these plans, LeBlond is not being considered for closing. Commitments from the Reds, PNC Bank, and likely Western Southern and the Marvin Lewis Foundation, to name just a few, have been procured. • Jane Sites asked if the plans for building a home on the west end of the LeBlond property are still being considered. Alayne said the developer has taken the proposal off the table; however, he is still working on fundraising for the renovations. The site of the old school to the east of LeBlond property is still officially for sale at $790,000. Contact: www.cincyrec.org/dr Riverview East Academy – Charlene Myers, principal • The school year finished Friday. Summer school began today with 4 programs: HS remediation (30 registered today; there were only 15 last year), Gr. 7-8 Bridge (REA will double its Gr. 7-8 population next year), Summer STARS for Gr. K-3 (focused on the new 3rd Gr. reading guarantee), and 2 autism units. • REA graduated 35 (2 are joining the work force, 2 with IEPs will enroll in Project Search, 4 are going into the military, 27 are going on to higher education). Bootsy Collins was the graduation speaker, and promised musical instruments to next year’s senior class of 55. • OGT results were higher than in previous year: reading & writing had the biggest increases. There will be social studies teaching turnover for next year. OAA results (Gr. 3-8) will arrive in July. • Charlene distributed draft copies of REA’s new Health Information Management program (including phlebotomy). This will be offered in addition to the current nursing aide program. Contact: myersch@cpsboe.k12.oh.us City Liaison - Laurie Keleher • Laurie presented an AIG check for $612.48 to be spent like NSP funding. • Melisse has taken care of EEAC’s stands to city property sales (see p. 3) • Paddle/Pedal Fest is Fri & Sat, June 21-22. • Sam wants a fence for his REA garden, not a shed. • There has been pushback to the bike facility, which the EEAC initiated with the city 3 years ago as a green program for commuters and to calm traffic on Riverside. BrewRiver, Betty Burns, Verdin Bell, and the Cornerstone Pentecostal Church of God (2106 Riverside; the pastor spoke to the issue on WLW talk radio recently) have spoken to Vice-Mayor Roxanne Qualls in opposition; another meeting is scheduled for tomorrow. While supporting the bikeway, they are worried about the loss of free parking. Laurie listed the EEAC efforts to improve parking: closing a side street; converting a bus stop to handicapped parking; encouraging valet parking. Laurie explained that the proposed bike crossing at Collins is not for the upcoming bike facility, but rather for the proposed extension of the Ohio River Trail (which may cost $4 million). Patrick Ormond made a motion (seconded) that Laurie write a letter to Roxanne that the EEAC strongly supports a bike facility here. The motion unanimously passed. Laurie encouraged individuals to write also. Contact: keleher.eastend@gmail.com NSP Budget and DAAP East End Study – Melisse May Melisse has submitted the NSP proposal that was approved at last month’s EEAC meeting. Although the agency that works with NSP has changed from Invest in Neighborhoods, she continues to get feedback, and hopes to get approval soon. The UC/DAAP study of the EE continues, with new students/recent DAAP graduates. Data will be used to create and support a vision of an improved EE. The study is focusing on parking to support a future business district near Delta. Michael Bolan is assisting. This project relates to work being done by the 3E business district. Results should be presented to EEAC before the end of summer. Contacts: May.melisse@gmail.com Old Business - Jackie • Friday night family movies are occurring again this year in the Garden District – • Choir flower pots – Thanks to all who are caring for them. EEAC is paying C/T to water pots along Eastern (we cannot use NSP funds for this). New Business - Jackie • We have been notified of 4 applications to buy city property: 1) 3208 Walworth (in EE): Construction of a single family home that exceeds zoned limits on all sides (e.g. front height exceeds by 10.5 ft.). Hearing is June 12 9AM on Central Parkway. Jackie will send a “Melisse-type” letter; immediate neighbors are sure to object to the oversized dimensions. 2) Brown St. (by Schmidt Park): James Kersting wants to build 5-6 condos. Melisse has asked the city for specifications. 3) 247 Gotham St (west of Duke): Sarah Kokenge wants to build here: she owns property adjacent to this lot. Melisse has asked the city for specifications. 4) 2354 Riverside – convert to duplex. No objection. • Barge facility request for expansion (e.g. 30,000 sq ft. storage building) - Planned Development #46. Hearing is Tuesday, June 4th 5:30pm at 2 Centennial Plaza, Suite 700 at 805 Central Ave. Friday, June 7th 9:00am at a City Planning Mtg the vote will take place (project is last on the agenda). Melisse said that our official position has been to ask for noise & dust control, and pay attention to neighbors’ issues. We have never received decibel information. Jane said the views of the barges are beautiful, and she has friends who work there; she supports a compromise. Jackie said the Stewarts have been good to the EE (donating land for picnicking at Eli’s in the Garden District). She is not necessarily for the barge expansion, but will live with it if all noise and dust are under control. Pat Ormond said the city should be made aware of the falling property values at Foster’s Pt and Twain’s Landing, and subsequent reduced tax revenues. There was a discussion of what causes noise (unloading/dropping of pig iron onto a pile, then onto railroad cars). Sandy pointed out that in the last written zoning report, the conditions imposed on Jan 18, 2013 (time of day for operations, dust/noise limitations) must continue. Laurie moved that until an independent long-term noise study is done, and a dust abatement plan written, the EEAC objects to expansion of the barge facility; seconded. Motion passed with no objections. Bob Little will attend the hearing tomorrow and will express the EEAC’s position in requiring noise & dust monitoring/ abatement. It’s possible the vote will be extended until Sept. or Oct. Announcements – Jackie Weist • Shred Day July 27, sponsored by the Avondale Community Council at the Christian Academy 3771 Reading Rd. (near Dana). Food will be available (fundraiser) • EE Bumper stickers for sale Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 8:35 PM. NOTE: You can read EEAC minutes and sign up to have monthly newsletters emailed to you at http://cincyeastender.blogspot.com