Kingfield Neighborhood Association

Board of Directors Meeting

October 13, 2004

Board Members Present:  Thor Anderson, Rosemary Dolata, Martha Ingram, Rolf Johnson, Arthur Knowles, Erik Lindseth, Ben Kristensen, David Motzenbecker, Dave Muschenheim, Mari O’ Rourke, Dave Saddoris, Niki Valens, Sean Wherley

Others Present:  Sarah Linnes-Robinson, Joanna Sahlberg Hallstrom, Robyn Repya (Southwest Journal)

Meeting called to order:
Motzenbecker called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m.

Community Forum:
None.

Secretary’s Report:
Linnes-Robinson agreed to e-mail to board members the final amount made at the Kingfield Festival, which will be less than $600 gross profit.  “Welch Companies” should be “Welsh Companies.”  Knowles moved to adopt the Secretary’s Report; motion carried unanimously.

Treasurer’s Report:
Linnes-Robinson reported that the present audit of KFNA is “going fine;” results are expected in April 2005.  Lindseth moved to adopt the Treasurer’s Report; motion carried unanimously with the exception of Ingram’s abstention.

Committee Reports:
With regard to funds for the 40th Street Pedestrian Bridge (minutes 9/1/04), Wherley questioned the wisdom of approaching–and the likelihood of obtaining from–MnDOT mitigation funds tentatively allocated for replacement of the 38th Street Bridge.  Motzenbecker said that such state funds are ancillary, and should not be tied to MnDOT’s approval of the “iconic” pedestrian bridge design to ensure “continuity” with the 38th Street Bridge.

Saddoris suggested that portions of the pedestrian bridge project description (rev. 9/12/04) are “too firm” (e.g., the bridge represented MnDOT’s attempt to “pacify” the neighborhoods divided by 35W.)  Motzenbecker clarified that the project description is a draft in progress; “file it away.”  Knowles posited that “pacification is the truth.”

Hallstrom reported that the Pepitos site sold.

With regard to the redevelopment committee (minutes 9/28/04), Motzenbecker made the following corrections: “Kress” is not “Krass;” and “Theisen” is not “Tyson.”

Discussion Items:

Hallstrom Introductions:
Board members introduced themselves to KFNA’s new project organizer, Johanna Sahlberg Hallstrom.

Draft Kingfield Neighborhood Design and Development Guidelines:
Motzenbecker reported that the aforementioned guidelines are intended much as KFNA’s affordable housing guidelines.  They represent the “bonuses” available to developers who build here.  Knowles found the guidelines “succinct and straightforward,” and a “positive step” in defining appropriate re/development.  Dolata described them as “proactive, not reactive.”

Wherley questioned whether the guidelines would carry the same weight as the neighborhood plan.  Motzenbecker clarified that they would serve as an addendum to any completed master plan prepared in consultation with the city.  Dolata suggested that perhaps the guidelines could be adopted as part of the city plan, an idea of which Wherley approved because they would “carry more weight.”  Motzenbecker was not sure they could be so adopted.

Lindseth raised stylistic concerns, noting that the guidelines should consistently begin with verbs and that footnotes should be abolished since no one reads them.

Saddoris questioned whether the assertion in the guidelines that Kingfield is “safe” opens KFNA up to liability.  Lindseth suggested that a neighborhood’s assertion regarding the safety of its public space–which occurs all the time in government brochures–is different than a landlord’s assertion to a tenant regarding the safety of private, rented space.  Saddoris and O’Rourke each wondered whether the average reader would understand arcane terms of art such as “life cycle,” “grow homes,” and “supportive housing.”  Dolata defined such terms.  Johnson asked how developers will get copies of the guidelines.  Dolata, Motzenbecker and Muschenheim variously suggested posting on KFNA’s website, making them available to the city, placing them in literature racks outside the KFNA office, and distributing at Redevelopment Committee meetings.

Lindseth moved to postpone consideration of the guidelines (which he will edit) until the next board meeting, which motion carried unanimously.

Farmers Market Memorandum of Understanding:
Lindseth has prepared a draft Memorandum of Understanding to memorialize the agreement between Mulroy’s Body Shop and KFNA regarding use of Mulroy’s parking lot and utilities for the Farmer’s Market.  The MOU will be taken up at a later meeting.

Old Business

Nicollet Avenue Lighting Petition:
Linnes-Robinson reported that KFNA has obtained signatures representing about 2/3 of the necessary property along Nicollet.  Signatures are due by the end of October.  The owners of Ace Hardware and Mulroy’s may sign.  The Bishop of the Mormon Church supports the project, but the CFO is pulling back.  Linnes Robinson reported that city is in talks with Sears regarding redevelopment of the K-Mart site, which might impact Nicollet lighting.  Wherley queried whether the lights could include baffles to deflect light downward to mitigate light pollution.  According to Motzenbecker, Councilmember Dan Niziolek will address this issue in a task force.

Corridor Housing Initiative:
Motzenbecker reported that the Sept. 23 community forum was a “success,” with some 50 people in attendance.  CHI will schedule a wrap-up session in mid-November.

K-Mart Site:
Wherley reported that a consortium of city and neighborhood groups is examining the K-Mart site, now owned by Sears.  KFNA needs a representative, particularly because redevelopment of that site will impact corridor housing efforts.

New Business
Wherley reported that KFNA’s annual fundraiser letter will reach homes Nov. 1, and encouraged all board members to give.  Wherley also reported that the state is formally unveiling its plan for 35W bus-rapid transit (“BRT”) in December.  Wherley also reported that the city may file suit against the state for pushing ahead with the 35W-Crosstown Reconstruction Project if the city’s demands are not met.  Accordingly, KFNA’s efforts to find counsel for a potential suit are on hold.

Linnes-Robinson noted that Lyndale Avenue will be repaired in 2006 according to a citizen plan developed 4 years ago.  Hennepin County Commissioner Gail Dorfman will discuss the project at KFNA’s Dec. 8 meeting.

Linnes-Robinson and Wherley also noted that the Park Board is swamped with tree removal, and will continue to cut throughout the winter and inventory holes for new trees.

The meeting adjourned at 7:55 p.m.
Minutes respectfully submitted by Erik Lindseth

KFNA Board Secretary–Sean Wherley
KFNA Board President–David Motzenbecker

Kingfield Neighborhood Association

Board of Directors Meeting

September 8, 2004

Board members present: Thor Anderson, Rosemary Dolata, Martha Ingram, Rolf Johnson, Arthur Knowles, Ben Kristensen, Erik Lindseth, David Motzenbecker, Dave Muschenheim, Mari O’Rourke, Dave Saddoris, Niki Valens, Sean Wherley

Others present:  Sarah Linnes-Robinson, Liz Gibson-Gasset, Robyn Repya (Southwest Journal)

Meeting called to order:
David Motzenbecker called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m.

Community Forum:
No Action.

Secretary’s Report:
Ben Kristensen moved to accept the secretary’s report from August without changes. Sean Wherley seconded, and the motion was approved with two abstentions (Arthur Knowles and Rolf Johnson).

Treasurer’s Report:
Kristensen reported that the current checking account would remain at Wells Fargo, as noted at in his letter submitted to the board at last month’s meeting.  Kristensen also noted that an ING savings account could be pursued in the future if the board decides this would be beneficial for KFNA.

Wherley asked what the $1,000 given to Heather Martens was used for.  Sarah Linnes-Robinson explained that the amount was a community initiated grant for elm tree care for Kingfield residents.

Wherley also asked if there was a final dollar amount (i.e. loss/profit) from the KFNA Festival.  Linnes-Robinson informed the board that she did not have the exact numbers, but would e-mail the final amount to board members.

Linnes-Robinson provided an update on the mural projects.  She noted that the total cost for the murals was $8,757.95 and KFNA received nearly $3,000.00 in donations.  She stated that if the board would like to continue with more mural projects, that KFNA should apply for a grant and also could use NRP funds to support future projects.  Wherley moved that KFNA should apply for an America Beautiful grant for $2,000.00 and Niki Valens seconded the motion.  The motion passed unanimously.

Knowles moved to accept the treasurer’s report from July and August 2004.  Valens seconded the motion.  The motion passed with two abstentions (Rosemary Dolata and Martha Ingram).

Committee Reports:
Knowles reported that the Zoning Committee approved three variances: increasing the garage from a four- to a six-car stall at 3900 Harriet Ave.; a remodeled basement also at 3900 Harriet Ave.; and to allow an 8-foot driveway instead of a 10-foot one at 3648 Nicollet Ave.

Knowles moved that the board approve the two variances for 3900 Harriet Ave.  Dave Muschenheim seconded the motion.  It was approved unanimously.

Knowles then moved to approve the variance for 3648 Nicollet Ave.  Muschenheim seconded the motion.  The motion was approved with one abstention (David Saddoris).

Discussion Items:
Joanna Hallstrom – Project Organizer Hiring: Motzenbecker informed the board that Joanna Hallstrom was interviewed for the Project Organizer position prior to the board meeting tonight.  The Human Resource Committee recommended the board approve her hiring.  Knowles moved to accept the Human Resource Committee’s recommendation to hire Joanna Hallstrom as Project Organizer for KFNA.  Wherley seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously.

35W: Wherley reported that there has been no response to KFNA’s request for legal representation for the 35W Access Project.  However, he noted that the Minneapolis City Council voted no to the 35W-Crosstown Reconstruction Project because it did not have BRT (bus rapid transit) and that vote could have significant impact on the Access Project because the two are connected.  He also noted that the State has not allocated any money for the Access Project for at least the next ten years, thus putting the project on hold.  There will also be a public BRT meeting held Sept. 29 at King Park at 7 p.m.

Forecast contract (Pedestrian Bridge):  Motzenbecker noted that no action needed to be taken at this time regarding this topic.  However, he noted that Hennepin County and the City of Minneapolis expressed support for the project and that a new pedestrian bridge at 42nd Street should be pursued.

Nicollet Lighting Petition/Lighting Pollution: Linnes-Robinson reported that 40 percent of the needed signatures have been collected for the project between 40th and 36th Streets on Nicollet Avenue; however, 65 percent is needed to proceed.  She noted that some significant businesses along Nicollet are against the project and unless some of the businesses sign, the project would not go forward.

Motzenbecker noted that some Kingfield residents voiced concern regarding the potential for light pollution from the new light fixtures.  He noted that there are new designs that limit light exposure to lessen the light pollution and the board should encourage the City to consider this if the Nicollet Avenue light project proceeds.

Old Business:
Theisen Vending/Goff Update:  Motzenbecker informed the board that Theisen Vending moved last month from 3800 Nicollet Ave. to their new building in Golden Valley.  Mr. Theisen has retained Welch Companies to sell his property, which is listed at $895,000.00.  Motzenbecker noted that KFNA and Lander Development group would provide a proposal to Mr. Theisen for the property.

Motzenbecker noted that the redevelopment of the Goff property at 3601 Nicollet Ave. has not progressed.  He informed the board that KFNA could assist Mr. Goff with redevelopment uses and designs.

CHI:  Motzenbecker informed the Board that CHI will present their work on Sept. 23 at King Park at 7 p.m.  He noted that Mayor R.T. Rybak and Council Member Dan Niziolek will be present and urged all board members to attend.

MPHA:  Motzenbecker noted that MPHA would begin construction on the new house at 23 W. 38th St. at the end of September.

New Business:
Farmers Market:  Liz Gibson-Gasset informed the board that the farmer’s market will move to Mulroy’s parking lot at 39th Street and Nicollet Avenue next year.  She noted that the new site would offer more space for current and future venders and allow the market to grow and possibly become self-sufficient and/or profitable. She also noted that KFNA should consider having a contract with Mulroy’s stating time and use of their parking lot.

Erik Lindseth moved to draft a contract regarding the use of Mulroy’s parking lot for KFNA’s farmers’ market.  Valens seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.

University of Minnesota Landscape Architecture Conference:  Motzenbecker informed the board that the University is having a conference Oct. 15-16 and encouraged board members to consider attending one or both sessions.

The meeting adjourned at 8:35 p.m.
Minutes submitted by Ben Kristensen

KFNA Board Secretary – Sean Wherley
KFNA Board President – David Motzenbecker

Kingfield Neighborhood Association

Board of Directors Meeting

August 11, 2004

Board members present: Thor Anderson, Rosemary Dolata, Martha Ingram, Arthur Knowles, Erik Lindseth, David Motzenbecker, Dave Muschenheim, Mari O’Rourke, Dave Saddoris, Sean Wherley, Rolf Johnson

Others present: Marie Hauser, Sarah Linnes-Robinson, Scott Marshall, Robyn Repya

Meeting called to order:
David Motzenbecker called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m.

Community Forum:
Scott Marshall of the PEACE Foundation presented information about the organization, which works to encourage Minneapolis residents to counter violence in their neighborhoods.  Marshall mentioned the foundation’s effort to create a common communication network and that it would like to take advantage of our e-mail list.  Marshall also presented invitations to the inaugural PEACE Ball.

Secretary’s Report:
Martha Ingram moved to accept the secretary’s report from July without changes.  Arthur Knowles seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

Treasurer’s report:
There was no treasurer’s report for July.  Ben Kristensen was unable to attend but sent a letter to the Board recommending that it keep its bank accounts at Wells Fargo rather than transfer them to a smaller bank and incur higher fees.  Knowles noted that since the problem with account signatories had been solved, there was no reason to leave Wells Fargo.

Dave Saddoris asked what type of monitoring would be needed if an ING savings account were established.  Sarah Linnes-Robinson explained that this merely entailed the need to maintain a minimum balance.  Knowles asked if there was any information available about the legality of earning interest.  Linnes-Robinson said the current NRP policy is basically “Don’t ask, don’t tell” about small interest-bearing accounts –investing NRP funds in place of using them for improvements is allowed, but small savings accounts are not acceptable.  Dave Muschenheim pointed out that the 2.3 percent interest rate for an ING account is significant when KFNA carries balances of $20,000 to $30,000.  Sean Wherley requested that Linnes-Robinson look into the official rules for interest-bearing accounts, and discussion was tabled until September.

Committee Reports:
Knowles mentioned that the Schwie garage zoning problem had been solved, and that there is a meeting next week to discuss a property at 39th and Harriet as well as another garage variance.

Discussion Items:
35W: Wherley reported that MAP for Nonprofits in St. Paul had been contacted and that no attorney had come forward to represent KFNA.  MAP has forwarded the KFNA request to the Minnesota Bar Association; Wherley will follow up in two weeks.  There are also national organizations that may be willing to take up the matter.

Wherley also reported that the Minneapolis City Council is due to vote soon on the environmental assessment for the Crosstown/35W Reconstruction Project.  The Minneapolis City Attorney is on record as saying that the environmental assessment is inadequate and that the cumulative impact of the Crosstown Project and 35W Access Project are not being considered together as they should.  Wherley recommended that Board members call the city to weigh in if they have not already done so, but did not recommend a KFNA letter at this time.

Old Business:
Festival: Wherley reported that around 300 people attended the Festival, raising $575 for KFNA.  This did not quite cover expenses, but was better than last year.  Vendors were happy and would return next year if asked.  Concerns include the lag in getting the Festival underway, hassles with band changeover and the stage, and the early departure of all the art tables.  Rosie Dolata mentioned receiving an inquiry about the art show.  Linnes-Robinson said that it had been dropped this year for lack of volunteers.  Wherley praised the park staff for their great assistance.  Motzenbecker suggested the possibility of a “Taste of Kingfield” next summer, offering samples from neighborhood eating establishments for a set price.  Linnes-Robinson brought up tying the festival in with a run.  Saddoris said such a run would be labor intensive.

CHI: Motzenbecker said there was good participation at the Festival.  There was a meeting last Thursday at which Karen Doerr acted as a consultant (helping groups to implement development).  The next big push will be the Sept. 23 unveiling of the CHI plan, with Council Member Dan Niziolek and Mayor R.T. Rybak attending.  Motzenbecker noted that Brian Goff, owner of 3601 Nicollet Ave., has agreed to participate in the process.  Goff has no plans to sell and does not want to partner with anyone, but wants to expand the site to include garage and adjoining houses.  Wherley queried the purpose of CHI public comments.  Motzenbecker explained that they enable the CHI committee to get a sense of what the neighborhood wants and provide reinforcement that CHI is on the right track.  Dolata added that public comments solidify the idea that the community is involved in the process.

National Night Out:  Lindseth, Dolata, Keith Hallstrom, and Diana [?] visited all NNO block parties on bicycles, and were favorably received.  They distributed Community Initiated Grant information and CHI bookmarks.  Lindseth noted that people wanted to know where they could get Kingfield t-shirts and suggested KFNA sell them on its website.

Newsletter: Thor Anderson reported that the August newsletter has gone to press, and that KFNA has a new photographer at large, Joshua Boucher.

New Business:
Theisen is selling its property and will be out by Aug. 13.  Mr. Theisen is excited about CHI and is willing to work with Redevelopment Committee to try to sell property in spirit of what neighborhood wants.  He has agreed not to list the property until KFNA-partner developers have toured the site and presented bids.  Wherley inquired about Theisen’s timeline.  Motzenbecker said he does not seem to be in a hurry; developers will have bids to him by Aug. 25.  Wherley asked if KFNA could buy the property.  Dolata noted that if the developers passed on the project, KFNA might not want it – it’s a challenging space.  Muschenheim asked what the goal for the property is.  Motzenbecker replied that mixed use would be ideal – retail and housing, consistent with CHI.  Knowles noted that KFNA should also encourage any business that likes the site, to facilitate job development in the neighborhood.

Mulroy is definitely moving to Super Shuttle site and wants to lease both of his current locations.

Fundraising letter: Wherley reported that last year’s effort raised $3,000, so it was successful.  He recommended continuing this and is willing to write a letter to go out in November.

Replacement staff: The executive committee reported that Margo Dean has interviewed for Rachel Foran’s position.  The committee is excited about Dean, who currently does organizing work with a north side neighborhood group.  Dean also speaks Spanish and knows website development.  Dean would like to phase in as of Sept. 1.  Lindseth asked if the Board committed to paying Foran through September.  Linnes-Robinson said Foran committed to finishing projects, not a set time frame, so no problem.  Wherley moved to offer Margo Dean the KFNA staff position starting Sept.1, up to 80 hours per month at $16/hour plus the existing insurance stipend of $500/quarter, on a 6-month probationary basis, as a replacement for Foran and Liz Gibson-Gasset.  Muschenheim seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

Westrum’s proposal: Linnes-Robinson reported that all murals are going up except one (whose owner is in the hospital).  Painter is currently working on a cityscape mural at Westrum’s and would like to raise money for charity by selling “dots” on the cityscape for $10 with proceeds going to Emergency Home Repair grants through KFNA.  Lindseth moved that Linnes-Robinson take necessary time to research this idea.  Mari O’Rourke seconded, and the motion passed unanimously.

Tree replacement:  Marie Hauser reported that currently the city is overwhelmed with elm removal, but will be doing GPS survey of Kingfield soon.  To get on tree replacement list, residents should call the Park Board at (612) 370-4900.

The meeting adjourned at 8:25 p.m.

Minutes submitted by Martha Ingram

Kingfield Neighborhood Association

Board of Directors Meeting

July 14, 2004

Board members present: Rosemary Dolata, Martha Ingram, Arthur Knowles, Ben Kristensen, Erik Lindseth, David Motzenbecker, Dave Muschenheim, Mari O’Rourke, Dave Saddoris, Niki Valens, Sean Wherley.

Others present: Ken Avidor, Rachel Foran, Liz Gibson-Gasset, Sarah Linnes-Robinson, and Robyn Repya.

Meeting called to order:
David Motzenbecker called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m.

Community Forum:
Niki Valens informed the board of a festival sponsored by various businesses at the corner of 38th Street and Grand Avenue July 16-18.

Secretary’s Report:
David Motzenbecker said his name had been misspelled in last month’s minutes. Knowles moved, and Valens seconded, that minutes be corrected with regard to spelling, and approved. Motion carried unanimously.

Treasurer’s Report:
Sean Wherley moved, and David Muschenheim seconded, that the June treasurer’s report be accepted. Motion carried unanimously.

Committee Reports:
There were no questions or clarifications requests regarding other committee reports.

Year end financials:
Nancy Hansen, the KFNA Bookkeeper, gave the board an overview of the balance sheet and the income and expense statement. Sarah Linnes-Robinson once again requested that all questions regarding specific line items be phoned or e-mailed to her before the monthly meeting, so that she can research the correct response.

Dave Muschenheim again brought up the possibility of setting funds aside in a savings account to accrue some interest.

Staff Reorganization Proposal:
The board appreciated being kept up-to-date about the current staffing problems, and the temporary solutions which have been implemented.

With both Rachel and Liz leaving their positions in October, Wherley moved, and Muschenheim seconded, that KFNA post the position of project coordinator on October l, 2004, with the job to commence on January l, 2005. All voted aye, with the exception of Muschenheim, who abstained.

Contract reviews:
Erik Lindseth moved, and Rosemary Dolata seconded, that the CHI contract be revised by striking references to Sarah Linnes-Robinson, KFNA Project Organizer, and replacing such references with David Motzenbecker, the Board President, to more clearly indicate that the contract is with the KFNA, not with an individual.

Wherley suggested that the 40th Street Bridge contract needed more detail. Lindseth moved, and Martha Ingram seconded, that the contract be referred to the Redevelopment Committee for further consideration. Motion carried unanimously.

Discussion Items:
Communications Committee: Linnes-Robinson provided an overview of the history and status of the KFNA website, noting that the lack of volunteers and staff knowledge had kept it from being regularly updated. Lindseth recommended that web knowledge be a priority for new staff hires. Dolata opposed making website experience of greater importance than organizing experience when evaluating prospective staff members.  Motzenbecker suggested that someone research the costs of hiring someone to maintain the website. Lindseth requested that Rachel Foran spend some of her remaining time with KFNA updating the website, and forwarding her suggestions with regard to web software, design, and providers.  Arthur Knowles said that energy spent on improving the website, while necessary, would not enlarge KFNA’s outreach effort.

Small Business Grants: Motzenbecker asked the NRP Steering Committee to consider setting up a program to encourage small businesses to stay in Kingfield.  Wherley said that the idea could be considered when planning for Phase II.

35W Injunction: Wherley noted that KFNA is on record opposing the 35W Access Project, as currently designed, as indicated by two votes during the last four years. Wherley said that the KFNA board must represent the views of the neighborhood and pursue all options. One option is to seek legal counsel to determine if the KFNA has grounds for seeking an injunction against the project. Wherley moved, and Muschenheim seconded, that KFNA approach MAP for Nonprofits and request that the agency post our search for pro bono legal representation, to examine our legal status vis-à-vis an injunction. This motion also authorizes the payment of $400.00 of KFNA (not NRP) funds to MAP for Nonprofits, if such legal counsel is found. All voted aye, save Knowles and Lindseth, who abstained.

Old Business:
Each board member was given five Kingfield Festival posters to distribute before the July 31 event.

New Business:
Board members are encouraged to get out on the “National Night Out” and visit Kingfield parties, offering support and promoting KFNA.

Dave Saddoris issued a report about the 35W Tunnel Project, to which he is the Kingfield liaison. There has been occasional flooding at Blaisdell Avenue & 43rd Street, Lyndale Avenue & 45th Street, and 1st Avenue & 45th Street, especially in 1997.  One mitigation possibility includes water gardens. Saddoris will keep the board updated.

Linnes-Robinson said that all SAFE officers have been pulled from Kingfield, and that the Martin Luther King Park building will be closed the last two weeks of August.  Any committee meetings scheduled during that period must find other venues.

Meeting adjourned: 8:55 P.M.
Minutes submitted by Arthur H. Knowles

KFNA Board Secretary – Sean Wherley
KFNA Board President – David Motzenbecker

Kingfield Neighborhood Association

Board of Directors Meeting

June 9, 2004

Board members present: Thor Anderson, Rosemary Dolata, Rolf Johnson, Arthur Knowles, Ben Kristensen, Erik Lindseth, David Motzenbecker, Mari O’Rourke, Dave Saddoris, Niki Valens, Sean Wherley, David Muschenheim

Others present: Scott Pampouck, Marie Hauser, Robyn Repya (Southwest Journal), Rachel Foran, Liz Gibson-Gasset, Sarah Linnes-Robinson

Call to Order
David Motzenbecker called the meeting to order.

Community Forum:
Scott Pampouck, formerly of N. E. Tyme, shared his plans to open a new restaurant, Corner Table.  His plan is to incorporate locally grown and organic food in his menu.  Friday and Saturday nights will likely have the biggest draw, and Sundays will be more family-oriented.  He is currently seeking a beer and wine license from the city.  A meeting with the city was scheduled for June 10.

Moment of Silence
Rolf Johnson moved that a moment of silence be observed in honor of former President Ronald Reagan who died June 5.  The motion was seconded, and a moment of silence observed.

Secretary’s Report
There were no changes to the May 19 meeting minutes.  Sean Wherley moved that the secretary’s report be approved.  The motion was seconded.  The report was approved with one abstention (David Muschenheim).

Treasurer’s Report
Ben Kristensen updated the board on his research regarding a possible bank change for KFNA.  An ING account would offer a two percent return on savings.  There is apparently no interest potential for a small business checking account.  More personal service seems to be available working with a smaller bank.  First National Bank of the Lakes is being considered.  The clearest evidence of a problem at Wells Fargo, KFNA’s current bank, is that there are nine names listed as active on the account, in spite of repeated efforts to remove those who are no longer in positions of authority.

David Motzenbecker asked when payments to Sanders Wacker Bergly Inc. would be complete.  Sarah Linnes-Robinson explained that the payments, which are related to the RiverLake Greenway Project, will continue to be paid out until the full amount available is used, or their work is complete.  There is not a specific date.

Arthur Knowles moved to accept the report.  Niki Valens seconded the motion.  The report was approved by an unanimous voice vote.

Nancy Hanson, KFNA’s accountant, had been schedule to attend, but do to unforeseen circumstances her visit was postponed until the July 14 meeting.

Committee Meeting Minutes

Sean inquired about the redevelopment committee pedestrian bridge project, specifically regarding costs.  KFNA’s contribution is expected to be $20,000 to $25,000.  This includes $20,000 already set aside for art at Martin Luther King Park as part of the RiverLake Greenway project.

Conflict of Interest Disclosure Statements
Board members and staff were asked to state possible conflicts.

1. Rolf Johnson – none
2. David Muschenheim – none
3. Erik Lindseth – none
4. Arthur Knowles – none
5. Dave Saddoris – none
6. Ben Kristensen – none
7. David Motzenbecker – possible conflict with design work related the Corridor Housing Initiative
8. Rosemary Dolata – professional focus on affordable housing is likely to overlap with development of affordable housing in Kingfield
9. Sean Wherley – none
10. Mari O’Rourke – has a decorative paint business
11. Niki Valens – owns business in Kingfield (Victor’s) & owns building where Yemaya mural is located
12. Thor Anderson – paid to do KFNA Newsletter layout & has auto-portrait business
13. Liz Gibson-Gasset – potential fois gras clients in neighborhood
14. Sarah Linnes-Robinson – children enrolled in Judson Preschool & resident of Bryant Neighborhood

Committee Membership Changes/Updates
Communications:  Niki (interested in block club representation), Peter Gold (via email)

NRP Steering:  Sam Zordich (contacted Sarah)
note: no June meeting

Zoning Sub-Committee:  David Muschenheim
note: general invite to all offered by Arthur K.

NRP Project Organizer
Rachel Foran introduced herself.  She is a former Vista Volunteer from Rochester, New York.  She lives in St. Paul and has current part-time position as an independent contractor.  (She doesn’t anticipate a scheduling conflict.)  She has significant experience in grant writing.

Arthur moved that the board accept the Human Resources Committee’s recommendation to hire Rachel as NRP Project Organizer.  Erik Linseth moved that the employment letter be amended to read “The probation period will extend for six months or through December 9, 2004…”  The amended motion was accepted by acclamation.  Rachel will replace Liz Gibson-Gasset, who is leaving the position effective August 1, 2004.

Summer Intern
Diana Sherman, a planning student from M.I.T., has contacted KFNA about a possible work study position.  She is available for eight hours a week.  Seventy-five percent of her position would be funded by M.I.T.  The proposal is that her work focuses on the Corridor Housing Initiative.

Rosemary Dolata moved that KFNA offer Diana a summer position.  Rolf seconded the motion.  Erik offered the following amendments:  1) KFNA will inquire with CHI regarding possible reimbursement  2)  KFNA be authorized to pay up to $5 an hour.  Arthur seconded Erik’s amendments.

The motion was approved by unanimous voice vote.

Paige Fitzgerald’s Resignation
Paige Fitzgerald submitted her resignation via an email to sitting board members.  Erik moved that Martha Ingram replace Paige.  David Muschenheim seconded the motion.  The motion was approved by unanimous voice vote.

NRP Update
Sean explained Kingfield’s current status in terms of NRP funding, and proposed that our goal should be to spend down Phase I funding to allow us to move to Phase II.  Sean distributed a handout, which showed that Phase I allocated $3,011,144 to Kingfield.  Currently, about $420,000 remains.  To move to Phase II we must either spend 85 percent or contract 95 percent of the Phase I allocation.

Sean requested that neighborhood input be sought for spending Phase I funds.

Seventy percent of Phase II funding must be spent on housing.  Only 10 percent can be spent on administration.  It is estimated that funds are available for two years of existing staffing levels.

It may be possible to get an exemption to receive up to $100,000 from Phase II.  Sean stated that we should do as much housing as possible while we still have staff.  This is why an exemption should be considered.

A neighborhood vote is required to move to Phase II.

Erik suggested designating a five-year contract for staffing as a way to spending down Phase I.  (10 percent limit may be a concern).

David Motzenbecker spoke about the Corridor Housing Initiative and a proposed Kingfield Master Plan as great opportunities.  Each will involve neighborhood input.

Niki pointed out that sometimes people need to be sparked through examples and encouraged working through block leaders.

David Motzbecker suggested forgivable loans or grants for small businesses.

Rolf questioned the effect of waiting for Phase II funding for CHI.  Rosemary responded that it seemed it may cause a delay or slow progress.  Sarah clarified that NRP pay out occurs at the end of a project, so a delay should not be a problem.

Victor’s Site Plan
Niki spoke to the board about how a restaurant remodel and cooler expansion at Victor’s 1959 Café has turned into a significant challenge with the city regarding site issues.  Problems include a requirement for 20 percent landscaping, indirect communication with the city, bike rack locations, possible curb cut elimination and an extended restaurant closure.

A June 16 meeting has been scheduled with Council Member Dan Niziolek.

Erik moved that the issue be referred to zoning and redevelopment.  All voted in favor, except Niki who abstained.

Corridor Housing Initiative Update
David Motzbecker explained that an initial plan has been created for Nicollet Avenue.  Neighborhood input is being sought at the Farmer’s Market, including a “values” survey.  An interactive activity is planned for the Kingfield Festival.

Annual Neighborhood Festival
The festival is scheduled Saturday, July 31 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

There will be a planning meeting June 10.  Each board member should plan to volunteer at least one hour.

David Saddoris suggested a 5K race for next year’s event, and Rolf suggested a tennis tournament.

35W Expansion Update
Sean provided an update of the Crosstown/35W Reconstruction Project planned for 35W from Penn Avenue in Richfield to 42nd Street in Minneapolis.  Bus rapid transit stops, originally proposed (and opposed) at 42nd Street, are now being proposed for 38th Street and 46th Street.

There will be a public meeting at Washburn High School June 14 at 7 p.m.  Sarah thought there may also be a related meeting in Richfield the following night.

Nicollet Ave. Street Lighting
A new petition is being gathered.  A list of property owners has been created.

Farmer’s Market
The Farmer’s Market begins June 13.  A plant exchange will be included.  The market operates from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Sunday.  Thor, Rolf, Rosemary, David Saddoris, Mari O’Rourke and Erik indicated that they would like to have KFNA Farmer’s Market lawn signs.

Motion to Adjourn
Arthur moved to adjourn.  Rolf seconded the motion.  Motion passed by voice vote.
Minutes submitted by Rosemary Dolata.

KFNA Board Secretary – Sean Wherley
KFNA Board President – David Motzenbecker