Kingfield Neighborhood Association

Board of Directors Meeting
Aug 10, 2005

Minutes

Board Members Present:
Darryl Gerber, Thor Anderson, Dave Saddoris, Pete Hallstrom, Martha Ingram, Ben Kristensen, Ryan Raleigh and Sean Wherley, Diana Schleisman

KFNA Staff Present: Sarah Linnes-Robinson and Joanna Sahlberg Hallstrom,

Board Members Absent:
Niki Valens, Mari O’Rourke, and JobyLyn White-Wiedow (alternate), Erik Lindseth, Mark Hinds

Meeting Called to Order:
Lindseth called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m.

Community Forum:
Mark & Tammy  Mulvehill, owners of Caffe Tempo, want to get opinions from the neighborhood regarding changes they can make to their coffee shop. In particular they want to be more “kid friendly”. The board agreed that the email list and the newsletter would be acceptable venues for getting the opinions of neighbors.

Sala Gilner, board member at Field Regina Northrop Neighborhood Group, announced the availability of and office coordinator position.

Joanna H. commented on the ongoing concerns in some parts of the neighborhood with increased violence and prostitution. Joanna assured the board that she is keeping in contact with our SAFE officer to monitor developments. Also, there are efforts underway to hold community meetings to address the issues.

Secretary’s Report:
The July 13 minutes were adopted with the following change. Darryl Gerber was absent from that meeting. He should have been listed accordingly.

Treasurer’s Report:
No treasurer’s report

Redevelopment Committee Report:
The KFNA board has been asked to not discuss the Lander Plan while there are ongoing negotiations. A proposal will come before the board at a future date. One board member expressed concern that our financial offering towards the project is so substantial in light of reduced Phase II NRP funding. A) The negotiating team is being aggressive to leverage our contribution to get maximum benefits for the neighborhood.

Minneapolis Meditation Center
It was brought to the board’s attention that the Minneapolis Meditation Center is purchasing the property at 43rd & Blaisedale. They want to place a sign on the property and may need a variance.

Festival Recap
Sean W. reported that, despite increased food, entertainment and extended hours, there was perhaps a disappointing turnout at this year’s festival. Nonetheless, many board members felt that the festival was a success in many areas.

Art  Chairs
It was reported that the art chair silent auction brought in over $1,000 to the neighborhood association. There is already discussion about a future artistic collaboration with Leorardo’s Basement and Anodyne coffee shop.

Farmer’s Market Update
There are reports that some vendors are unhappy with the current site. The board agreed

this has been a challenging year to date, especially with the absence of a major vegetable vendor.

Transportation Report
Darryl Gerber reported that he has been appointed to the Project Steering Committee for “Mobility Minneapolis”. He explained that the long term (10 year) planning project is transit focused with an emphasis on downtown Mpls. The committee will host an open house in the end of September.

Goff Site Update
Sarah reported that Steve Poor has confirmed that there will not be an extension granted to Goff for work at the 3601 site. Sarah has drafted a letter to Mr. Dockry of CPED. The letter presents KFNA’s wishes that the property be acquired by the city and developed in accordance with the Higher Density Corridor Housing Initiative Project.

The letter was approved with minor changes, namely that it be pointed out that our suggestions for development are consistent with the goals that the city has already stated.

23 West 38th Street Update
Sarah reported that city authorities are not concerned whether or not the development has handicap accessibility – they are satisfied that at least it meets affordable housing goals. If we want to continue to pursue the matter we have been advised to take it up with our city council representatives.

CPED Contract Update
Sarah reported that she has drafted new contracts with CPED which address the concern the board previously had over administrative fees. If was moved and carried that the board approve the new contracts.

Returned 4% Loans
Sarah shared information regarding the proposal to move funds from Kingfield’s 4% Home Loan program (loans that have been repaid), into the KFNA Affordable Housing and Property Redevelopment Program. (See supporting document) A community vote will be necessary to reallocate those funds.

Mural Update
There was discussion about the situation with the mosaic project at 4325 Nicollet. As the artists underestimated the cost of materials, Sarah wrote a memo, which indicates several possible responses to the situation. The board motioned to pursue option #5 (see document). In addition it was recommended that we pursue collaboration with MLK Park to create a mosaic over the entrance to their facility. It was further moved to pay the artists $1,500 now with the requirement that they give us the design now, as it stands, and complete the project in 2006. The board will fundraise for the extra money, as well as the money needed for a mosaic at MLK Park. The motion carried.

Art Crawl
Sarah reminded the board that we need a celebration at several locations for the Art Crawl on oct.2.

Hosmer Library Contracts
Sarah reported that Kingfield’s contracts with Hosmer Library need an extension. (see sheet) A motion to extend the contract was carried.

Environmental Task Force
Sarah pointed out to the board that there is an apparent need to set up an Environmental Task Force in light of the numerous ideas that have surfaced in recent months in that arena. The committee would perhaps overlap with the Redevelopment Committee in some areas but would otherwise field issues specifically related to the environment in Kingfield neighborhood. The board will consider this further at a later date.

Meeting Adjourned at 9pm
Minutes respectfully submitted by Thor Anderson.

KFNA Board Secretary Thor Anderson
KFNA Board President Erik Lindseth

Kingfield Neighborhood Association

Board of Directors Meeting
June 8, 2005

Minutes

Board Members Present:
Thor Anderson, Darrell Gerber, Pete Hallstrom, Mark Hinds, Martha Ingram, Ben Kristensen, Erik Lindseth, Mari O’Rourke, Ryan Raleigh, Diana Schleisman, , Sean Wherley, and JobyLyn White-Wiedow (alternate).

KFNA Executive Director Sarah Linnes-Robinson present

Board Members Absent:
Niki Valens

Meeting Called to Order:
Lindseth, the new KFNA Board President, called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m.

Community Forum:
Audience member asked two questions: Q) Will KFNA July Festival have an art forum?  A) Wherley: No; Q) Who would be interested in organizing an art exhibit for KFNA, perhaps alongside Farmers’ Market?  A) Lindseth: suggest coordinate with Art Mural committee and/or Linnes-Robinson regarding the Farmers’ Market.  Linnes-Robinson explained that KFNA had an art show two years ago, and while attempt was made last year, lack of participation precluded art forum.

Conflict of Interest Declarations:
New Board member, Pete Hallstrom, declared that wife, Joanna Hallstrom, is an employee of KFNA.  President noted for the record declaration.

Committee Member Appointments:
Board members reviewed assignments, Linnes-Robinson explained that committee members appointed by President while working groups less formal and participation more fluid.  Gerber clarified role of Transportation Liaison and Transportation Committee and request removal from Elm Committee.  Margo Dean added to Redevelopment Committee.

Motion to adopt committee appointments moved, seconded, and voted to carry.

Secretary’s Report:
Postponed.  May 11 Minutes adopted.

Treasurer’s Report:
Everything OK.  March 31 and April 30 Balance Sheets adopted.

Committee Reports:
·        NRP Committee: Wherley explained role of NRP committee as influential in expending NRP funds and seeking members.

Farmers’ Market
·        Second Sunday Celebrations:  Flyer distributed and reviewed.  Linnes-Robinson explained value of Farmers’ Market in building community and described the marketing of event through in-kind donations from S.W. Journal & Minneapolis Observer.
·        Farmers’ Market Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Tim Harwig, owner of Frame-Ups distributed and reviewed.  Lindseth explained MOU for only one year due to temporary location, utilities donated and Harwig calculates value of charitable donation for tax purposes.  Gerber asked if electricity provided sufficient, A) vendors not anticipating electricity.  O’Rourke asked if same vendors coming, A) Elsie’s Farm won’t be present this year, but everyone else will be.  Motion to adopt MOU forwarded, moved and carried.
·        Farmers’ Market Coordinator Contract: Position description provided to Board by Linnes-Robinson and reviewed.  Linnes-Robinson explained this will be 5th year of market, which had been previously coordinated by independent contractor who is no longer available.  Linnes-Robinson explained the need to approve an employee position description to finalize employment status of a neighborhood resident who is available and interested.  JobyLyn asked if direction will be provided on-site?  Linnes-Robinson answered not at all times.  Diana S asked if volunteers interested?  Linnes-Robinson answered no…this is a very serious commitment and employee needed to satisfy responsibilities.  Gerber asked about selection process and Linnes-Robinson replied that E.D. chooses employee Board approves Position.

Position description moved.  Lindseth moved to amend to add bullet to “arrange pre-market vendor organizational meeting.”  Ingram amended sentence to read “KF Market Coordinator will work under….  Anderson amended to include invitation to coordinator to visit Board mid-season and at conclusion of season for report to board.  Motion moved and amended and passed.

Nicollet Avenue Lighting Project Outreach:  Letter and Outreach Plan:
Comments sought on letter to residents, which is a heads-up prior to assessment letter from City.  Meeting hosted by City on June 28th to seek feedback and KFNA will field complaints before Public Hearing.

NRP Funds Committed to Lander by Redevelopment Committee:
Mark Hinds opened discussion with a motion to commit KFNA to provide $5000 for each affordable housing unit to be built in the redevelopment of the property located at 38th and Nicollet by the Lander Group.

Background by Hinds provided:
·        the Redevelopment Committee has a good working relationship with Lander Group who has attended committee meetings and provided a great deal of information regarding their proposed development.
·        the committee recently received a formal request for assistance from Lander Group to ensure that the project meets the affordable and sustainable priorities of the neighborhood.  The amount requested exceeded $200,000 alongside an itemized cost list of these priorities in the project.
·        the redevelopment committee has identified long-term affordable housing as a priority and has discussed the level of commitment available from phase I and II NRP funds.
·        the project, known as “38” will include 41 units and preserve the historic structure on-site while rise to 5 stories in the rear and step down to street in front.  Indoor parking will be available and the billboards will be incorporated into current design due to prior contractual arrangements.
·        With the current commitment proposed of $5,000 per affordable unit, it is certain that Lander will pursue more sources of funds.  In particular, Lander is preparing to apply for a June 28 deadline for CPED and MHFA funding.

White-Wiedow questioned the status of the billboards and encouraged efforts to tie future funding streams for KFNA to billboard contract.  Wherley expressed disappointment if theatre group blacked out windows on corner, as a proposed potential tenant.  Lindseth proposed following amendments to motion that $5,000 per affordable unit as tied to community land trust subject to following conditions:

1)      the commitment of funds subject to sale of property to Lander,
2)      that KFNA should be listed as partner in development marketing materials, and
3)      payment of funds due upon completion of project.
Wherley proposed a further amendment to include a condition
4)      that funds be made available to the affordable housing units of “38” only if a minimum threshold of 6 up to a maximum of 10 affordable units be included in development.  All four of the above amendments went to vote and passed.

Goff Development: Draft letter to City citing KFNA’s concerns with the project and anticipated extension for site plan:

Motion forwarded that KFNA oppose any request from Goff for permit extension as outlined in letter to Steve Poor, City of Minneapolis Zoning Administrator.

Background by Lindseth provided:
·        Goff has been disingenuous with redevelopment committee regarding site at 36th and Nicollet, and the committee does not support current project as proposed;
·        Letter to City of Minneapolis as a preemptive strike to discourage approval of extension to Goff, if requested;
·        Potential conflict of interest on part of David Motzenbacher regarding Goff and site;
·        Linnes-Robinson explained that KFNA has a proposal with the city to buy the site

Move to amend to strike last sentence of letter, which encourages City to only approve a three month extension if they are to act at all.  Vote results:  3 Yays, 8 Nays.  Technical amendment forwarded to add strong support for denying extension.  Motion moved, seconded and carried.

Fund Raising Letter for Event Support to Business:
Acknowledged

Questions from Board Training:
Primer on parliamentary procedure
Adjourned at 9pm
Minutes respectfully submitted by Thor Anderson as prepared by Ryan Raleigh.

KFNA Board Secretary – Thor Anderson
KFNA Board President – Erik Lindseth

Kingfield Neighborhood Association

Board of Directors Meeting

May 11, 2005

Minutes

Board Members Present:
Thor Anderson, Darrell Gerber, Pete Hallstrom, Mark Hinds, Martha Ingram, Ben Kristensen, Erik Lindseth, Ryan Raleigh, Diana Schleisman, Niki Valens, Sean Wherley, and JobyLyn White-Weidow (alternate).

Board Members Absent:
Mari O’Rourke, Dave Saddoris

Others Present:
Arthur Knowles; Sarah Linnes-Robinson, KFNA; and Robyn Repya, Southwest Journal.

Meeting called to order:
Kristensen, acting in the absence of outgoing President David Motzenbecker, called the meeting to order at 7:10 p.m.

Community Forum:
Outgoing board member Knowles reminded the board that the Zoning Subcommittee meets May 18 at 7 p.m.

Officer Elections:
Rolf Johnson resigned from the board.  Wherley moved that Raleigh assume the remainder of Johnson’s term.  Ingram seconded and the motion passed unanimously.  Linnes-Robinson discussed the bylaws and the roles and expectations of officers.

Lindseth nominated Kristensen to be treasurer.  Motion passed unanimously.  Wherley nominated Anderson to be secretary.  Motion passed unanimously.  Anderson nominated Wherley to be vice president.  Motion passed unanimously.  Hinds nominated Lindseth to be president.  Motion passed unanimously. Lindseth then assumed the duties of president and ran the remainder of the meeting.

Secretary’s Report
The April 13 minutes had one correction; the representative from the Southwest Journal in attendance was Joe Widmer, an intern.  Wherley moved to accept the April 13 board minutes; Hinds seconded.  Motion passed unanimously.

Treasurer’s Report:
Bank statements from March and April were not available for review; they will be approved at the June board meeting.  Kristensen brought the certificate of authority form and asked new officers to provide their signature for authorizing checks.  Linnes-Robinson explained that the checking account had an estimated $60,000 and that most expenses run on a reimbursement system, whereby the Neighborhood Revitalization Program pays KFNA for all expenses borne.

Committee Reports:
Linnes-Robinson explained that each board member should serve on two committees and that each panel’s membership is approved by the board.  She reviewed the committees and their roles or areas of oversight.  Committee members must be 18 or older, and or live or work in Kingfield.  Each committee should elect chairs at their next meeting.  A staff person is assigned to each committee but the chair should be responsible for communicating business with committee members.

Wherley discussed NRP Steering; Hinds Redevelopment; Anderson the Newsletter; Wherley fundraising, and transportation; and Valens the block organizing.

Mural Project:
Linnes-Robinson said KFNA selected five businesses for murals or other artwork this summer.  The businesses include Young’s Flowers, Nicollet Auto, Leonardo’s Basement, Frame Ups, and Colonial Cleaners.  Young’s Flowers will be adorned with a mosaic while the others will receive murals.

Lighting Petition:
The City Council’s Transportation and Public Works Committee approved KFNA’s Nicollet Avenue lighting petition between 36th and 40th Streets.  A public hearing is set for June 28 at 7 p.m. at Martin Luther King Park.  Board members are encouraged to attend.  Linnes-Robinson expects no problems at the hearing and said the installation could still happen in 2005.

Board Orientation:
A board member orientation is scheduled for June 7 at Ingram’s home, 4134 Wentworth Ave. S.  Board members are asked to bring a side dish.

Meeting Adjourned:
Hallstrom moved to adjourn; Schleisman seconded.  The meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.

Minutes respectfully submitted by Sean Wherley.

KFNA Board Secretary – Sean Wherley
KFNA Board President – Erik Lindseth

Kingfield Neighborhood Association

Board of Directors Meeting

April 13, 2005

Minutes

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

Board Members Absent:
None

Others Present:
Sarah Linnes-Robinson, KFNA; Jeremy Stratton, Southwest Journal; Marie Perzynski, Minneapolis Police Lieutenant; Tim, owner of Frame Ups.

Meeting called to order:
Motzenbecker called the meeting to order at 7:10 p.m.

Community Forum:
Lieutenant Perzynski provided a crime update for the neighborhood and precinct.  She urged people to take precautions as there have been several reported burglaries and car break-ins recently.  She said that the precinct will have two officers and one sergeant reassigned to the north side following a new crime prevention initiative launched by Chief William McManus.

Secretary’s Report
Linnes-Robinson requested that the minutes reflect the findings of KFNA’s recent audit, conducted by the State Auditor.  A double billing of $150 was reported and corrected.  The second item recommended stronger segregation of financial duties, which is difficult in such a small organization.  Wherley moved to accept the March Board minutes; Knowles seconded.  Motion passed unanimously.

Treasurer’s Report:
Motzenbecker inquired about the $2,500 item listed under “events.”  Linnes-Robinson said it was a social service grant issued to the Underground Youth Center.  Knowles moved to accept the treasurer’s report; Ingram seconded.  Motion passed unanimously.

Committee Reports:
Wherley inquired about requesting funds for the King Bridge Partnership through the Capital Long-range Investment Committee.  Motzenbecker said that KFNA should send a letter expressing interest in such funding to the committee next year, indicating it is premature to do so in 2005.

MLK Multi-Purpose Room:
Linnes-Robinson said that the Minneapolis Park Board will issue $11,600 to KFNA to reimburse the organization for repairs completed in 2002 on the multi-purpose room at King Park.

Annual Meeting:
Motzenbecker reviewed the proposed agenda for the April 18 annual meeting.  It was agreed that Councilmember Scott Benson will discuss 35W and Crosstown.  Knowles will discuss the NRP plan modifications, Valens and O’Rourke will discuss the block club organizing, Wherley will discuss fundraising, and Motzenbecker will discuss the farmer’s market, mural project, hazardous waste collection, and Kingfield Festival.

Because David Muschenheim announced his resignation from the board earlier this week, it was agreed that the board candidate receiving the seventh-highest vote total at the annual meeting would complete the remaining one year of Muschenheim’s term.  The top six candidates will each serve two-year terms.  Linnes-Robinson reminded the board that alternates may attend and speak at board meetings but cannot vote.

Theisen Building:
Motzenbecker said that the Lander Group, developer of the former Theisen building, may ask KFNA for financial assistance for the site.  Lander has not purchased the property as the company is awaiting environmental clean-up of the site.

23 W. 38th Street:
Linnes-Robinson reported that the duplex at 23 W. 38th Street is nearly complete; the site is owned by the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority.  Motzenbecker suggested holding a party or celebration to mark the completion of construction.

23 W. 38th Street:
Linnes-Robinson said that the Nicollet Avenue lighting project proposed for 36th Street to 40th Street has received approval from city councilmembers Dan Niziolek and Robert Lilligren.  An assessment hearing will be held in June.

Farmer’s Market:
Motzenbecker said that Time-Warner, the owner of the lot that hosts the Kingfield Farmer’s Market, has refused to sign a contract allowing the market to continue at the site in 2005.  Instead, Tim ?, the owner of Frame Ups on Nicollet Avenue will allow KFNA to host the market in the lot at his business.  The property is zoned commercial but a conditional use permit will likely be granted for the market to operate on the new site.

Meeting Adjourned:
Knowles moved to adjourn; Ingram seconded.  The meeting adjourned at 8:20 p.m.
Minutes respectfully submitted by Sean Wherley.

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

Kingfield Neighborhood Association

Board of Directors Meeting

March 9, 2005

Minutes

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

Board Members Asent:
None

Others Present:
Sarah Linnes-Robinson, KFNA; Robyn Repya, Southwest Journal; Jennifer Sprague, Kingfield resident; Tracy Eberly, Kingfield resident; TJ Gunther, Kingfield business owner.

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

Community Forum:
TJ from Kingfield business, Odds and Ends, informed the board of a public hearing allowing him to display items on the sidewalk in front of his business at 42nd and Nicollet.  He asked for KFNA to write a letter of support to the city.  Wherley moved that the board approve such a letter; the motion was seconded by Johnson.  Motzenbecker suggested that the letter mention how the sidewalk width is adequate for both display items and pedestrian traffic.  Motion passed unanimously.

Jennifer Sprague, from 44th Street & 1st Avenue, came to discuss the bus traffic on 44th Street.  Motzenbecker had spoken to John Dillery at Metro Transit regarding this issue and shared neighborhood concerns.  Dillery said that in order to test a route on 42nd Street and up Stevens Avenue, Metro Transit would need petitions signed by residents on Stevens Avenue between 42nd and 44th Streets.  Sprague had concerns about being able to get the required signatures.  The board suggested that she call Annette Meeks, Metropolitan Council representative for Kingfield, for a higher level of support than KFNA can provide.

Valens advised the board of public hearing to be held at MLK Park on March 17 for a wine and beer license at Victor’s 1959 Café.

Secretary’s Report
Wherley moved to accept the February Board minutes; Ingram seconded.  Motion passed unanimously.

Treasurer’s Report:
Valens moved to accept the treasurer’s report, Knowles seconded.  Motion passed unanimously.

No questions or comments on any other committee minutes.

MLK Multi-Purpose Room:
Linnes-Robinson explained the bill KFNA recently received from the Minneapolis Park Board for work done in 2002 on the multi-purpose room at King Park.  Discussion ensued about whether to pay the bill or not.  The bill was received late due to a clerical error by the Park Board, and according to KFNA records the Park Board actually owes KFNA money.  Dolata moved that we send both a letter and spreadsheet to NRP Director Bob Miller asking that he act on it.  Seconded by Muschenheim.  Motion passed unanimously.

KFNA Website:
Wherley suggested that the board entrust the website modifications to Linnes-Robinson and Joanna Hallstrom.  Some ideas and suggestions were discussed, including keeping board and committee meeting minutes posted for a year; preserving neighborhood business links/sponsorship; and creating a block leader sign-up area and community forum.

Annual Meeting Agenda:
Wherley suggested that 35W be removed from the April 18 agenda since nothing much is happening on the issue.  Knowles agreed to talk about NRP Phase II planning.  O’Rourke and Valens agreed to try and recruit block leaders w/booth and/or explanation of community initiated grants.  Ingram agreed to talk about the Farmer’s Market.  Other topics to be discussed include development options at 38th & Nicollet Avenue and 36th & Nicollet Avenue; lighting petition update; solicitation of volunteers for the mural program; and fundraising.  KFNA will invite State Rep. Frank Hornstein, City Councilmember Scott Benson, State Sen. Scott Dibble and Mayor R.T. Rybak to speak for two minutes each.  Johnson suggested that vote totals from the board election be posted after being tallied.

Motzenbecker will work further on the agenda and get back to us.

Social Service Grant Report:
Linnes-Robinson said that KFNA has issued 14 grants, 12 of which have been completed.  The only two outstanding are with Mental Health Collaborative and Skyway Senior Center.  Most successful thus far has been the Southwest Senior Center, which did a lot of outreach by doorknocking.  Motzenbecker asked that a synopsis of each grant be submitted to the board.

Audit Finding:
Linnes-Robinson requested that we approve the two findings.  Wherley moved to accept the auditor’s findings; Anderson seconded.  Motion passed unanimously.

Mural Task Force:
Valens agreed to serve as the board representative on the task force.

Farmers Market:
To hold the Farmer’s Market at Mulroy’s would require the site to be re-zoned.  The board opted not to pursue a re-zoning and to hold the market at its current location through 2006.  KFNA did receive a grant for creating the Farmer’s Market logo.  Designs will be submitted in two weeks.  In April, KFNA will form a group interested in marketing the Farmer’s Market.

Kingfield Festival:
First planning meeting is March 29 at 7 p.m. at Café Tempo.  Wherley would like to see another board member be involved in the planning.  Valens suggested that O’Rourke would be a good candidate.

Lighting:
The Nicollet Avenue lighting petition has not gone to City Council yet, but KFNA should know more by the board’s next meeting.

Everyone please bring a snack to April meeting as a send off to outgoing board members!

Meeting Adjourned:
Knowles moved to adjourn; Wherley seconded.  The meeting adjourned at about 9 p.m.

Minutes respectfully submitted by Niki Valens.

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