October 7, 2006
Cutting Trees
Concern was expressed about the number of beautiful mature trees that have been cut along Bellvue. It was noted that the tree stumps left behind did not appear to be diseased and decaying as reported by local press and authorities. Questions were posed about the purpose of the cutting. Some members seem to think that it was to benefit the power company. Melanie Gunn told members that she understood the CityTree Board. had done satellite mapping to determine which trees needed to be felled and replaced. Members want to prevent further tree cuttings. Rebecca Cline reported that is not necessary to cut down whole trees. The city in several cases simply removed diseased limbs on trees in the neighborhood.
Rental Property Residents
Members requested that the DHNA check into restrictions and guidelines regulating the number of people residing in a single home. There is a property at the end of Stonewall that has many vehicles parked in the yard and on the grass. Donna Phillips reported that the Zoning Board had begun addressing this problem at the last meeting. Research is being done to pattern our Dublin code to mirror those of Athens in an effort to prevent this problem in the future. Members voiced concern about the condition of surrounding properties (i.e. Tarps on roofs, grass not cut, yards not maintained, abandoned vehicles, etc.) One member reported that residents can be fined $400 for some of these violations. We must report the problem and then the city inspector follows up with a citation for the owners.
Help for Elderly Homeowners :
J. Fulgum reminded members that we could receive help from Home Depot to help residents repair and maintain their homes if they are unable to do the work themselves. Members would have to volunteer time and labor and Home Depot would contribute materials and/or money. We are not currently classified as a 504b organization we are not eligible for this help. Melnie Gunn pointed out that we have some areas that must be addressed with regard to how we operate as a nonprofit organization before we can apply for 504b status. Melanie Gunn, Donna Phillips, and Harold Cline will meet and work to address these areas and move forward with our application.
Suggestions for Neighborhood Improvement/Involvement :
Neighborhood Block Party
Trash Patrol
Both activities show a strong, unified commitment to maintaining our neighborhood to outsiders.
Suspicious Use of Property :
904 Euclid was reported as having suspicious activity as if an office on the property may be rented out for business use. City inspector will be contacted to follow up on the property use issue.
Neighborhod Concerns Ranked by Members
Members voted on the concerns discussed at the meeting. Concerns were ranked by each member and the top three were, as follows:
1. Traffic Related Problems
2. Duncan/Highland Tow Truck/Business concern
3. Tree Cutting
These concerns will be focused on immediately. Many will be discussed at the Friday 13 meeting when Harold Cline, Jody Fulgum, and Melanie Gunn meet with the City Manager. Members suggested that we invite City Council and Zoning Board members to our meetings. It was noted that we now have a DHNA resident, Mr. William Brown, on the council and that he is eager to attend and support our efforts.
Members were questioned as to their stance on adding speed bumps throughout the DHN and all were in favor.
The meeting was adjourned and members enjoyed some �Good Eats.�
Appreciation is expressed to our hosts, Jody & Rob.
